Book Shoutout: My Grown Ups by Kate Costigan, a Picture Book About Family & Diversity
Note: The following is a paid book feature/advertisement.
When author Kate Costigan’s mom passed away when Kate was seven, the makeup of her family changed significantly. Kate moved to Florida with her family, and she went on to be raised by her grandmother and father. Kate recalls having to do a family tree project shortly after she lost her mom, and the assignment that made her feel so uncomfortable. This is one life experience that helped inspire the creation of her new book release, My Grown-Ups!
In her book, Kate showcases her own upbringing while highlighting the composition of a variety of other families, including those with divorced parents, those headed by grandparents, those with same-sex parents, those formed through adoption, those with single parents, and more. When Kate wrote this title, she hoped it would help kids feel safe and comfortable telling their own stories. So many kids will feel seen within the pages of this book. Kids need to have access to books about diverse families.
Written in rhyme, My Grown-Ups has a playful and positive tone. This picture book about family and diversity promotes acceptance while emphasizing that what matters most is the love and care that exist within a home. The artwork from illustrator Sarah K. Turner is colorful and cheerful, portraying many families enjoying a neighborhood block party alongside one another.
Here are some possible discussion questions you could pull into a readaloud of this title:
What are some of the different family make-ups in the book?
Who is a special grown-up in your life? Your grown-ups can be family members, friends, or even teachers!
What is something special you enjoy doing with your grown-ups?
The book says, "...when we go home there is one thing we don't need to assume. Our grown-ups will be there." Does everyone have grown-ups at home?
What makes a family a family?
My Grown-Ups is published through Halo Publishing and was sponsored by Hummingbird Humanity, a consulting firm focused on fostering Diversity & Inclusion in organizations and leaders. It is available NOW via Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Halo, and Hummingbird Humanity.
