After my first read, Made By Raffi, a picture book by Craig Pomranz and illustrated by Margaret Chamberlain has become one of my favourite children’s books.
It is a simply told story of a little boy who is different from his peers, who is bullied at school and feels isolated. Pomranz describes the strategies Raffi uses at school and how the everyday rumble and tumble of the school day can make him uncomfortable.
Raffi worries about being different and wonders what it is about him that makes him that way. As he asks his questions, his mother assures him that he is loved and special but a chance meeting with a yard duty teacher changes his world. Miss Fernandez spends some time and teaches him to knit. It is something that, although at first causes even more teasing, gives him a purpose, some confidence and a door into acceptance. His creativity sparked, Raffi decides to make a special costume for a fellow student to wear in a class play. When he produces it at school his difference is seen as a skill, is applauded and allows him to find his place within his peer group.
Margaret Chamberlain’s illustrations are inclusive of race, gender and disability. Her use of colour implies the sameness of some, and the difference of others, to complete the entire scene while highlighting and enhancing important sections in the text. The wording of this text will be easily read by children and will be listened to with anticipation.
This book has been released in languages other than English and has been justifiably short listed for a Little Rebel Children’s Book Award. If you have children who are a little different or have friends who are, you cannot go wrong in purchasing this book. It would make a marvellous Christmas or birthday present for any 3 to 8 year old or as an inclusion in any children’s picture book collection.
Reviewed by Leanne Caune
Rating out of 10: 10
Made by Raffi is available now through Dymocks Bookstores.
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