Book Review—One by Kathryn Otoshi

By Rana DiOrio, Founder, Little Pickle Press

Copyright ®2008 text and illustrations by Kathryn Otoshi

Reading level: Ages 4 and up

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: KO Kids Books (October 1, 2008)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0972394648

ISBN-13: 978-0972394642

Product Dimensions: 10.1 x 0.4 x 9.2 inches

Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces

This month we are exploring The Power of One as a theme on our blog. As we were refining the editorial calendar, I was reminded of Kathryn Otoshi’s third book, One, and we decided that we needed to review it for you.

The Story: The colors had become used to Red’s bullying, and none of them was doing anything about it. Then, One arrived and stood up to Red. One demonstrated that everyone counts, including Red.

The Rhythm: This is a terrific story to read aloud. First with colors and then numbers, the author achieves many objectives­­––develops character, uses metaphors, sets the pace, and builds suspense. 

The Artwork: Otoshi’s use of white space makes her characters and other design elements pop off the pages. The use of color typeface and different size fonts is also very clever and helps to convey the message to young readers.

The Message: At its foundation, this is a book about standing up to bullies. I am drawn to the book, however, for its powerful message that it only takes one person to catalyze positive change.

The Conclusion: Please support your local bookseller and buy this multiple award-winning book from them, or find it on Amazon, or borrow a copy from your library, but by all means read it to the little pickles (colors, or numbers) in your life. This book also makes an especially good gift for children or teachers.

The Footnote: I have owned this book since its original publication. When I went to search for it in our home library for the purpose of writing this review, I could not find it (Murphy’s Law). After my children and I tossed the house and still could not find it, I tried to download it as an iBook on our iPad. I discovered that it is not offered as an iBook, a Nook Book, or a title available on the Kindle. I wonder why Kathryn Otoshi, who created a publishing company for her works, is not also publishing her titles on the major eBook platforms for children.