Win Your Copy of Normal Norman

Normal Norman is a hilarious heartwarming story written by Tara Lazar, and illustrated by S. Britt. I am excited that Normal Norman has made a blog tour stop at CreateWithMom! Little ones and adults alike will enjoy the bright illustrations of the silly scenes, and the inspiration to embrace our individuality.

The story is about a junior scientist trying to find out what normal really means. The first assignment of this scientist is to define the word "normal" by examining an orangutan named Norman who from the outside looks average, regular, ordinary, and similar to others.

However, when the scientist started to observe Norman's behaviour, he didn't fit her assumptions of normal. This orangutan was having pizza instead of bananas, speaking English instead of making animal noises, sleeping on the bunk bed and not on leaves, and more. The young scientist became sad because she couldn't define normal. Norman felt bad and wanted to do what he can to cooperate, so they went to his natural habitat. This is where the young scientist saw that everyone was being themselves and doing what they like. She realized that she was happier to be herself too, and concluded that "normal is impossible to define." 

I love how this book opens up conversations with children, and make adults think twice about their expectation of others. All of us, in our mind have a definition or a biased opinion of what normal is, and our expectations of both ourselves and others, which does not allow us to be unique and original. If we try to fit the standards of being "normal" all the time, it can make life difficult and upsetting for all of us. This expectation of "normal" sometimes can be a contributing factor to a variety of societal problems like mental health, bullying, racism, and more. 

This colourfully illustrated book is a good place to start conversations about these issues, as well as remind children and adults that being who we are, is better than being who others want us to be. After all, we all need reminders that we are all unique and different so we shouldn't expect each other to fit into the same box.  

Once you read and have conversation with the children, these activities from the book might come in handy.

Giveaway:

If you are in Canada or USA and would like to win a copy of this book enter the giveaway through the rafflecopter below before April 4. Please leave comments and follow my social media networks to be eligible to win.
Update: The winner is Carole

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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