EDITOR’S CHOICE
A heartwarming, beautifully told tale that celebrates self-love, friendship, and embracing uniqueness—perfect for nurturing confidence in young readers.
Lynne Roberto’s Perfectly Purple: George’s Story is a charming addition to the Jack the Bear Books series, offering young readers a gentle and uplifting tale about self-acceptance and the value of friendship. George, a soft purple teddy bear, is immediately endearing, and his initial worries about being different resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they don’t quite fit in.
The story unfolds in the comforting setting of Emily Ann’s room, where George meets two other bears—Jack and Scarlet—who help him realise that his uniqueness is not something to hide, but to celebrate. Through simple yet engaging language and warm, affectionate storytelling, Roberto crafts a narrative that is both accessible and meaningful for children.
What stands out most is the book’s positive message: embracing who you are is a strength, not a weakness. George’s journey towards self-love is handled with sensitivity, making it a valuable read for both children and parents alike. The themes of kindness, inclusion, and emotional growth are delicately woven into the plot, without ever feeling forced or didactic.
The illustrations—though not detailed here—can be imagined as colourful and inviting, perfectly complementing the text’s cheerful tone.
Overall, Perfectly Purple is a sweet and thoughtful story that encourages children to celebrate what makes them different. As the third entry in the series, it continues the tradition of heartening life lessons wrapped in a bear-sized hug. A delightful read for children aged 3 to 7.
