Book Review
A short overview of this book
My Shadow is Purple by Scott Stuart is a lovely book for young children about being true to themselves and moving past the gender binary. So this a great book for letting non-binary children know that they aren’t alone. Plus it also lets other children know that gender is more than just boys and girls, and that it doesn’t have to be confined by stereotypes.
This author has more books on similar themes.
You can learn more on this page, about how to talk to kids about sex education.
Ideal Age
Ideal for children aged 4 to 8 years.
Buy this book
✅ Buy a copy of My Shadow is Purple by Scott Stuart from Amazon.
Video Transcription
A transcription in case you are more of a reader than a listener
Hey there! I’m Cath Hak, and welcome to Sex Ed Rescue. I’m all about helping parents find better ways to talk to their kids about sex. Today, I want to review a book that I absolutely love called My Shadow Is Purple by Scott Stuart. It’s part of a series of books that I think are fantastic.
This particular book is for children who don’t identify as strictly a girl or a boy. They’re nonbinary. It addresses the fact that we often only talk about boys and girls, leaving out those who identify as gender fluid. But what if you like things that are typically associated with boys and girls? This book tackles that question.
It starts off by explaining that mom’s shadow is pink, dad’s shadow is blue, and there’s only one choice, either a two or a one. But the main character’s shadow is different. It’s both, and then it’s none. Their shadow is purple. They enjoy playing with all sorts of toys, both the ones typically associated with pink shadows and the ones associated with blue shadows.
They talk about how it can be a bit confusing. Why can’t they love sports if they don’t have a blue shadow? The book also touches on a school dance, where the main character’s parents help them create an outfit that’s a little bit of both.
But when they arrive at the dance, the room is divided into two sections: blue for boys and pink for girls. They feel stuck in the middle, not knowing where they belong. Some say, Hey, you’re blue too, while others say, Hey, you’re pink too. It’s all very confusing for them. Even the teacher tells them they must choose.
Feeling lost, they start to leave. But then something amazing happens. Other kids start speaking up, saying things like, My shadow is yellow, or My shadow is brown. Suddenly, they realize they’re not alone. They’re not the only ones who feel different. And that’s when the book wraps up with a beautiful message.
It says, I look at each shadow, no two are the same. On each happy face, there’s no trace of shame. Each different and special and fully unique. No color’s stronger and no color’s weak. The teacher comes over as we’ve joined as one. Whatever your color, start dancing, have fun.
This book is a wonderful way to normalize the experiences of nonbinary kids and make them feel less alone. But it’s also great for all kids because it helps them understand that it’s okay to be who they are. Kids usually have a clear understanding of their gender, and this book supports that. It’s about giving them permission to be themselves.
I love this book not just because it’s important for nonbinary kids, but also because it aligns with my values. I want to raise my kids to be good people who don’t bully or discriminate against others based on their gender. We need more kindness in this world, right?
So, if you’re looking for a book that can spark meaningful conversations with your kids and teach them about acceptance and diversity, I highly recommend My Shadow Is Purple. It’s not only informative but also has a lovely tactile feel to it. If you have any questions, just let me know. Cheers!
