Samantha Mathers - We'll Paint the Octopus Red

Samantha Mathers

3046765

EDUC 2530-005

Mike Link

20 March 2014

Book Review: We’ll Paint the Octopus Red

Written by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen and illustrated by Pam DeVito, We’ll Paint the Octopus Red is an outstanding children’s book that communicates a powerful message. It tells the heart-warming story of six year old Emma, the anticipation of her new sibling, and what she learns about disabilities when her brother is born with Down syndrome. I think this book is so incredible because it teaches children how to respectfully treat someone with a disability – a quality some individuals do not acquire until adulthood. In a world where we are bound to come into contact with people who are different from us, it is important for children to learn from a young age that different does not mean incapable.

When Emma first learns she is going to be a big sister, she is not at all happy about it. Having been an only child for six years, she is used to having her parents to herself and likes it that way. In an attempt to be encouraging, Emma’s father tells her about the many things she will be able to do with her new brother or sister.  She is not enthusiastic about the activities her dad suggests, like helping to change diapers, rolling a ball to the baby, and reading to him or her. Her father’s suggestions, however, do get her thinking about some other things she and her new sibling can do together. She becomes excited about taking her brother or sister to visit family members, sticking their tongues out at other cars when they go for rides, painting pictures (of an octopus in particular), and going on an African safari when they are grown up.  When Emma comes up with a long list of all the things she will be able to do with her sibling, she feels eager and ready to be a big sister. One morning, Emma’s dad wakes her up to tell her that she has a new brother named Isaac. He then explains that Isaac has something called Down syndrome. Emma thinks of all the things she and her baby brother were going to do together, and asks her dad if having Down syndrome means Isaac won’t be able to do those things with her. Her dad says that even though it might take Isaac longer to learn how to do things like walk, there was no reason he couldn’t do all of the things Emma had planned for him. Emma asks her father, “if Isaac has this Down thing, then what can’t he do?” He tells Emma that as long as they are patient and helpful when Isaac needs, there is probably nothing Isaac won’t be able to do.  When Emma meets her brother for the first time, she tells him that she will show him how to paint an octopus and she thinks they will paint it red.

            Overall, I think this story is about acceptance and the realization that a person with a disability is still very capable. I found it particularly moving because I have seen both sides of this. I have experienced situations where a child with a disability is not accepted by their peers as well as children who hardly take notice of any differences in the person they are playing with. I think the latter is an extremely important quality for children to have. I would recommend that all children read this book in the hope that they take something away from Emma’s positive attitude and willingness to accept her brother for who he is. Although this book was written for children, I think Emma’s father is an example to all parents going through a similar situation. He eloquently explains to Emma that as long as she helps him when he needs it, Down syndrome will not prevent Isaac from doing anything. I would also recommend this story to teachers as a reminder that while a student may be faced with a disability, they are still capable of participating and thriving in the classroom.

            This heart-warming story is a wonderful addition to children’s literature. Like many children’s books, We’ll Paint the Octopus Red teaches children several valuable lessons. Ultimately, Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen wants her readers to learn that a child is not limited by their disability and they can still take part in the games and activities that come with growing up. Although the language is put very simply, this story sends a powerful message to readers of any age. The story is relatable to any child anticipating the arrival of a new sibling, but especially to children who know someone with a disability. I think this book is a great tool in helping young children to understand what having a disability means and how to treat someone with a disability – whether that person is a sibling, a friend, or a classmate.