Chocolate Me! - A Yummy Dose of Self-Esteem

My cohorts often describe chocolate as therapy.

Consider Chocolate Me! a dose of happy for all ages.

Chocolate Me! invites readers to discover the unique "flavors" within all of us and savor them.

Actor and new author Taye Diggs introduces us to the protagonist — a young boy who feels singled out in his neighborhood because his outward qualities don't match his peers'. Among his peach-colored friends, this little guy with poofy hair, brown skin and a wide nose stands out.

And he doesn't like it. That is, until illustrator Shane W. Evans draws "Moms" into the story.

Chocolate Me! finds a full serving of self-esteem at home, where he's reminded that he's perfect in his mother's eyes. And when he looks in the mirror, he should love what he sees.

No matter the shades of your family members, you'll love Chocolate Me! for its central message: Love yourselves, embrace your uniqueness. Above all, be you!

This book provides a launching point for discussions about diversity and feelings. I also found a few thought-provoking discussion questions for families to share at the end of the story.

So much has been written about the words of Chocolate Me!, but the illustrations garner praise too. Brushstrokes and collage work add depth to the story. A T-shirt person, I appreciate the inspirational messages the protagonist sports on his chest throughout the book.

And the simple paper cupcake wrappers — blue, pink, green and yellow — holding together the chocolately goodness found in the end? Ah, the sweet memories of baking with my mom. Back in the day, there were no confetti or character muffin liners. It was foil or pastels. (I hated it when Mom bought the foils!) Nary a mother could surpass the unconditional love of the mom in Chocolate Me! but my own.

We discovered Chocolate Me! during a visit to Evans' studio last fall. Kid Chef and I adore this book. When I hear him exclaim, "Because I'm chocolate!" at the end of the book, my heart swells.

Hearing Evans talk about his work is like listening to a pastor who was born to preach. Check out some of his other endeavors. He's in his element, and I hope this pair collaborates again soon.

I chose this book to kick off our February feature because it would make a fabulous Valentine's Day gift for the young chocolate lovers in your homes. You can buy it at your local bookstore or Amazon. Better yet: If you're interested in a free Chocolate Me! T-shirt, check out this offer.

I've been perusing the Internet for a cupcake apron. I'll let you know if I find one!

Until next time,
Tricia