I have read books about transgender adults. I have read books about trans kids. In these books they will live their true selves. They can be who they are not only on the inside but outside. However, I am not sure how to interpret Benny’s True Colors within my experiences of these other books.
I am more than happy for someone to read this book and let me know if they think Benny is living their true selves by “presenting” a true self or if Benny transitioned formally.
What is mean is, this is a book about being yourself. Benny is, on the outside, a bat. But they know they are a butterfly. They enjoy the sun, what to flutter and be colorful. Throughout the story Benny has a great support system with his mother always supporting his choices and telling him she loves him. And eventually he has some wonderful friends who do not laugh at his confession and help him become his true self. And that true self has Benny finding a way to cocoon himself as a bat and emerge as a butterfly. Therefore, is he dressing to have both inner and outer expressions match, or did he lose all battiness for the real butterfly they are?
Either way, Norene Paulson has created a story that is far out. The flow of the text is warm, friendly and age appropriate. I can even see this as a tool to help adults have some language to explain to themselves or their child what is happening to Benny. It works if your child is questioning or knowing about themselves, or to help explain a transition another child or person has made.
And I cannot get over the most adorableness of the illustrations created by Anne Passchier. The cover says it all. Colors pop. Details simple, but expressive and Benny while is not their true self, he is rarely overly unhappy. They know who they are, they are frustrated but it never goes to a “darker” place. It is hopeful.
I liked this book not in a “OMG BEST BOOK EVER!!!” way, but as a “I liked this. This is good,” kind of way.
