ONE OF A KIND

For one lonesome boy, fitting in means standing out.

Lysander Singleton is the only only child at Twin Oaks Elementary. He tries his best to connect with the built-in pairs of twin classmates at his school but often finds himself friendless and feeling unimportant. The bright, digital artwork, blending a ’60s retro style with an Edwardian fashion aesthetic, highlights Lysander’s ongoing frustration. His situation just may change when the school hosts its annual Twindividuation, a daylong series of events meant to encourage individuality. With twins divided into two separate teams and given mismatched uniforms, Lysander expects to be left out once again. But he aces the solo singing competition, the one-man relay and a wickedly spot-on twin dilemma, the Isolated Ice Cream Inquiry. In this last, he chooses an ice-cream flavor without the benefit of sibling consultation in a record-setting 15 seconds, finally gaining confidence and the recognition he deserves. Winning the Simondon-Stiegler Cup, the individual award for individuality, proves it.

While not unique, this lighthearted story helps children appreciate their own special qualities and build the courage to express them.