Common Sense Media Review
Boy with amputation wants to be treated like other kids.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Opening with a playground scene, YOU'RE SO AMAZING tells the story of Joe, a young boy with amputation, who keeps trying to enjoy games with his friend, Simone, but their play is interrupted by people pointing and exclaiming how amazing he is. Following Joe around the playground and an ice cream truck, readers will witness Joe's persistence to keep playing and enjoying his day like any other kid till finally -- with the help of an older brother and his friends -- he feels like he can just be himself.
Is It Any Good?
The persistence of the main character, Joe, to try new things and enjoy his activities despite social challenges is admirable. In this lighthearted book, authors James and Lucy Catchpole have winningly tackled a big, important discussion around normalizing disability in our communities, added kid humor and warmth, and sized it to an enjoyable, child-friendly story. Karen George's colored-pencil illustrations convey innocence and playfulness that reinforce the story's child-friendly perspective. Great to pair with What Happened to You? as both books are wonderful conversation starters about how to treat people with disabilities -- just like any other person.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how people make Joe feel in You're So Amazing! Why did it sometimes make Joe feel bad to be called "amazing"?
In the story, Joe and Simone like to play pretend together. Is there a game of pretend that you enjoy playing with your family or friends?
On the playground, some pointed at Joe because he was different. Sometimes our hands communicate just as loudly as our words. What would you do if you saw someone who looked different from you? How could you use hands and words to be friendly and respectful to others?
With his friends, Joe says he's glad to be "Just Joe." When do you most feel like yourself?
Even when Joe didn't feel comfortable with other people pointing and praising him so much, he kept persevering to be himself, try new things, and enjoy his day. Can you remember a time you've had to persevere?
Book Details
- Authors :
- Illustrator : Karen George
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Activism
- Character Strengths : Communication , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Little Brown and Company
- Publication date : May 4, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 34
- Available on : Hardback
- Award : ALA Best and Notable Books
- Last updated : April 19, 2026
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