Pride Oasis (Kutopia #2)

Pride Oasis (Kutopia #2) written and illustrated by Kasey Rainbow (Scholastic) HB RRP $14.99 ISBN9781761720192

This bright, vibrantly colourful picture book is dedicated to ‘those who have felt a little different.’ Then the dedication says, ‘You are beautiful just the way you are.’

In rhyming verse, this story is set in Pride Oasis, a magical land inside the whimsical world of Kutopia! Luka the Lion wants nothing more than to fit in with his pride, so he tries very hard to hide his differences. He does this, for example, by painting mud and dirt on his fur. ‘He hid every day in fear and in fright.’

At the start of the book, he helps Echo, a chameleon, which is caught in a tree; he wishes he could do as the creature does, change himself so he can look like the rest of his pride. Echo takes Luka to a vibrant oasis where he meets Elliot, a friendly elephant and Percy a peacock. He asks the latter, ‘How do you shine without fear or fright?’ to which Percy responds, ‘When I follow my heart, there’s nothing to fear.’

And thus, it is that Luka learns from the caring critters of Kutopia that being unique is something to be proud of. ‘It’s not about ribbons or a full trophy shelf. It’s about loving others. And loving yourself.’

At the end of the book is a note for readers, that reinforces the messages that the characters Luka meets hold their own unique, ‘special sparkle’ and is ready and willing to take the reader on a journey to discover these strengths within him or herself. Below this message are conversation starters asking readers questions such as ‘What is something about yourself that makes you really proud?’ and ‘What’s one thing that makes you different from others and why do you like it?’

 With stunning illustrations from Australian author and artist Kasey Rainbow, Pride Oasis is a colourful journey of friendship, encouragement and learning to let your true self shine.