One of a Kind Like Me/Único Como Yo

Written by Laurin Mayeno, Illustrated by Robert Liu-Trujillo

This bilingual children’s book (ages 4-7) is based on a true story about a child named Danny who wants to be a princess in the school parade. Danny and mom embark on a venture to find a purple princess dress. But will they find it on time? Laurin wrote the book based on her child and uses it to spark conversation about gender diversity with children, families, and educators.

book cover

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Schedule a School Visit or Presentation

Laurin’s author visits to classrooms are 20-40 minutes. They include a reading of the book, dialogue with students, and Q&A. Interactive activities may also be included. Dialogue responds to questions raised by children and may also touch on:

  • The idea that toys, colors, clothes, and play can be for anyone, and don’t need to be limited by gender.
  • How to be a good friend when other children teased.
  • How each person is different and what we appreciate about those differences.

Contact us to schedule a school visit or presentation.

More information and resources

“A delightful book… a story that needed telling… a liberating message for all children… One of a Kind, Like Me deserves to be present in every library, every school, every home.” —Alma Flor Ada, winner of the Pura Belpre Award

“When Danny was growing up, we didn’t know other families like ours, or see ourselves reflected in picture books. I hope that One of a Kind, Like Me gives children a sense of belonging, courage to be who they are, and an appreciation for people who are different than them selves.” —Laurin Mayeno, Author

“Laurin’s interaction with our community through her special read aloud and conversation really resonated with the kids. She was able to field so many curious questions about ‘boy and girl stuff’ in a kind and informative way and helped us cultivate authentic conversation about uniqueness and differences.” —Alison Lanza, 2nd Grade Teacher, CPE2, East Harlem