I have picked up several picture books recently where a fruit or vegetable is the main character in the story, which offer up some humorous and different perspectives from which to tell a narrative There was something about Olla Meyzinger’s illustrations that I particularly identified with. Then I realised they reminded me of the Garden Gang by Jayne Fisher. I absolutely loved her books as a kid. The premise of the Kevin the Orange is a bit different but there are similarities in the messages of finding out who you are and self acceptance.
Kevin the Orange is a fun, engaging story that will appeal to EYFS and KS1. But, there is also plenty to interest older children and adults. There are many ways a young child could relate to or join in with this story, so it would make a great book to read aloud to encourage a love of stories and books and reading for pleasure. There are also a number of links and possible activities related to this story. It introduces children to colours. Kevin changes colour 6 times (blue, red, yellow, green, pink, purple and white). It also explored hot and cold. Kevin travels to the North Pole to get very cold and eats lots of chilli’s to turn red! A fun, engaging story to read aloud, which also explores themes of friendship, identity and self acceptance.
