Romy Ash (text), and Blue Jaryn (illustrator), As bright as a rainbow, Working Title Press, January 2024, 24 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781922033062
A book about gender and being yourself.As bright as a rainbow is a beautiful, warm introduction to the concept of gender. As the author acknowledges, this book was ideally written for the youngest of minds tackling the bigger questions on gender and how it might present itself to each person. It’s a caring guide through the first questions of “Can I be boy, girl, or other?” As bright as a rainbow is creatively succinct in keeping the language simple and clear, supporting the subject of “gender and being yourself” no matter what the reader identifies as. As bright as a rainbow uses comforting language, such as using the spectrum of colours to describe the ocean, to promote the idea of beauty in difference, and encourages acceptance and appreciation of these differences. The words help paint a wholesome picture that surrounds the challenges that come with finding a person’s own gender identity, in particular at a young age. Author Romy Ash’s use of language does not talk down to younger readers, which makes it just as accessible to older readers, or any person who may need insight into beginning the conversation with a young person asking questions about gender. Or even to educate the older reader if they themselves have no idea where to start on their journey of understanding.The illustrations by Blue Jaryn are gentle on the eye, inviting the reader to look around the page and take in the experience that the characters are demonstrating to accompany the gentle nature of the book. The rainbow is significant throughout the imagery, but the general palette is welcoming and calming, adding to the supportive environment a reader will experience while seeking out answers to the challenging questions surrounding gender. Romy and Blue each have a lovely little bio at the end of the book explaining their deep connection with the subject of gender.As bright as a rainbow suggests that this book is suitable for ages 3+, and to that point I would emphasise the “+”. This book is suitable for all ages, for anyone beginning their journey into addressing and understanding their own gender, or to educate the reader to support others going through the experience. Reviewed by Lauren Harcombe
