For one reason or another, we all wonder how and where we fit in. Sometimes, we find it a hard question to answer even within the constructs of our very own families. Here at Happily Ever Elephants we love books about family diversity and alternative family structures. And Kyo Maclear’s Spork, with illustrations by Isabelle Arsenault, provides such a perfect entryway to a conversation about how we find our place in the world- or even more simply, how we discover our place within the walls of our very own home. Spork is a story of longing, of hope, and of acceptance, which is one of the reasons I’m choosing to highlight this story for my #booksforbetter post this week.
Spork is the product of two loving parents- one spoon, and one fork. But as a combination of the two, Spork is afraid he sticks out in the cutlery drawer– he’s either too round, or too pointy, and he can’t figure out quite where he belongs. What happens when something — or someone– new suddenly takes a seat at the table? Will Spork finally find his place?
There is just so much to love about this book, from its beautiful message, to Arsenault’s spot on and glorious illustrations, to the way in which a baby (of course!) paves the way for Spork’s self-actualization and acceptance. Because who is it, if not our children, that will reach across a divide and link arms with someone who may be perceived as “other”? Children have no preconceived prejudices or grudges, and it is our job, as parents and educators, to keep it that way. So get Spork, and display it front and center in your libraries. Use it to help convey this most important message to your kids, until it’s as natural to them as the breaths they take each and every moment of their lives. No matter where we come from, who our parents are, or what we look like, we must never lose sight of the single most important foundation of humanity: We all have a place at the table.
RELATED: We’ve got all the best children’s books for you on Happily Ever Elephants, so be sure to check them out!
Want the book? Get it here! Spork, by Isabelle Arsenault. *This is an affiliate link.
Leave a Reply