Who's in a Family?

This picture book is a great representation of countless types of families. There are examples of types of families like gay and lesbian, single parent household including both mom and dad, only child, two people married with no children, and animal families. Also along with the different types of families each one represents a particular cultural group as well. These two concepts really stress to the students that diversity in the home life does not just mean the difference in color of skin or appearance; it is something much more than that. Due to these perspectives throughout the book, I feel as though Who’s in a Family, thrives at teaching students the foundation of diversity in families, but is not too overwhelming for a young student.

The author Robert Skutch portrays a positive icon of each family type through the written text within the book. Each family is doing everyday activities and showing displays of affection. The book overall clarifies to the students that family does not have a certain appearance and it is all about the people who love and care about you. If readers do not get that message through the text it is sure to be understood after viewing the illustrations. Illustrator Laura Nienhanus provides a warm, loving feeling through her drawings. Students will be able to visually comprehend how special family is despite the structure and outer image. This is essential when students are reading this book because most times young children look for ways they see themselves or life styles in a book; which would be best demonstrated in a positive light so they will feel inclusion into society and their peers. Who’s in a Family is another must have in my collection.