Kate & Jol Temple (text), and Niharika Hukku & Ronojoy Ghosh (illustrators), That Bird has Arms! Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing, July 2023, 24 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781761210310
Roy has arms. This all sounds very normal, except that Roy is a bird. Do all birds have arms? No, Roy is unique in the world of birds. Roy has trouble accepting his individuality when he realises he is the only bird with arms. This makes him different. And sometimes it’s difficult to accept being different from our peers. Roy decides to hide his arms. If no-one knows he is different, life will be easier.
On his own, Roy flexes his arms, he gives them a good work out. He can do wonderful things with his arms and it feels great to get them out and use them as he should. They are unique and special. However, with the talent show looming, and everybody talking about their own talents, Roy continues to keep his arms a secret. At the talent show, while everyone else shows their varying talents, Roy still feels that his arms are just too different – until an opportunity arises where his arms are not only revealed, but are considered a wonderful asset.
That Bird has Arms! explores having a crisis of identity that can come about from having something that makes a person so different to others. Following Roy on his journey, the story highlights the importance of self-acceptance, ignoring negative comments, and owning what makes a person special. The illustrations are quirky and clever, showcasing Roy’s unconventional attributes – a bird with arms! – and complementing the entertaining storyline. A neat little detail within the illustrations and text is that the birds who give Roy the most grief are common birds in Australia that tend to have a reputation for being particularly annoying!
That Bird has Arms! reminds the reader that it’s their individuality that makes them so wonderful. Rather than hide what makes each person different, people should not be ashamed – or shame others – for the things that make us unique. Differences should be accepted and celebrated, no matter how they are presented, whether obvious or hidden. An insightful book that encourages the reader to consider the required mentality to embrace true inclusion and diversity.
Recommended for ages 3+, That Bird has Arms! is a book that will have the whole family giggling while imparting an important lesson on self-pride and individuality.
Reviewed by Lauren Harcombe
