CHILDREN’S book of the week

BREAK THE MOULD: HOW TO TAKE YOUR PLACE IN THE WORLD

by Sinead Burke, illustrated by Natalie Byrne, Wren & Rook, £8.99 (ebook £5.99) ★★★★ ★ IF you’ve ever worried about kids growing up in the digital age, where appearance is often, it seems, valued above accomplishments, this book is a brilliant beacon of hope.

Dublin-born teacher and activist Sinead Burke encourages young people to celebrate, not shy away from, what makes them different – be it race, gender, disability or anything else – to fiercely follow their dreams and use their voice to make the world a better place.

Using practical activities and highlighting inspiring examples from game-changing people of all ages, including her own achievements – Burke is responsible for the introduction of the word ‘duine beag’, meaning little person, into the Irish language, and was the first little person to appear on the cover of Vogue

– the author teaches children that what makes them unique can be a kind of superpower, if they use their perspective to challenge the status quo.

For any youngster feeling the pressure to fit in rather than stand out Break The Mould is a wonderfully warm, uplifting and refreshing read.