MY EXTRAORDINARY FACE

Strategies to help kids with facial differences navigate others’ reactions.

“No one’s face is ordinary,” the authors, both medical doctors, declare, but “sometimes when you’re extraordinary, it isn’t easy to fit in.” Sometimes people stare, whisper, or ask questions “because there is no one else exactly like you.” To mitigate such challenges, the authors walk kids through a breathing exercise: blowing a huge bubble of “love and care and kindness” that stares can’t penetrate. Children are then invited to name three things they’re proud of; illustrated examples include playing sports, baking, and singing. Should anyone try to burst their bubbles, kids can exit an uncomfortable conversation and find a friend: “Your bubble will always follow.” As youngsters talk to trusted people, their confidence bubble “grows…and grows…and grows!” Racially diverse children with conditions including vitiligo and cleft palate demonstrate these strategies in bright cartoon illustrations. Questions such as “What is a mean comment that someone has said to you before? What would you say to them from inside your bubble?” invite readers to practice handling difficult interactions. Mardini and Suchyta matter-of-factly acknowledge tough feelings such as loneliness while portraying differences in a positive light: “Your face is one part of the amazing person you are.” The book’s reminder to readers that they are unique, powerful, and entitled to ignore rude comments emphasizes children’s agency—all crucial ingredients for confidence. An authors’ note offers tips for caregivers.

Practical and empowering.