Shades of People
In this story, wonderful pictures and rich vocabulary are used to introduce the reader to the beautiful shades of people in our world. As the reader turns the pages of the book, they will see the faces of smiling children, all with varying shades of skin, a wide range of hair colors, and unique facial features. Shades of cocoa, rose, and bronze are just some of the vibrant shades you will notice as you are introduced to the children featured in this book. This book provides photographs and language that paints a picture of the diversity that surrounds us, and sends a message that our skin is just our covering, like wrapping paper—the true gift is underneath.
Pennsylvania Center for the Book Awards
Book Activities & Discussion Ideas
After reading, talk about the many shades depicted and about our own skin. Share skin-colored crayons with children, and talk about when we make pictures of people that there are so many different shades that can be used. Use the vocabulary from the book to discuss the colors/shades (i.e., pink, rose, almond, gold, bronze, and brown). A bulletin board can be created that says: “We Read Shades of People”, include adjectives from the book, and display photos of the children and/or drawings of themselves and their friends created by the children.
This book is full of adjectives for building children’s vocabulary. There are many specific words to describe light or dark skin (i.e., creamy, ivory, sandy, peach, coffee, cocoa, copper, and tan). Encourage families to talk with children about how skin is just our covering, and who we really are lies under that covering. What words would describe the person underneath? (funny, kind, happy, excited, etc.).