Large

"Gross" is a sensitive book that addresses the topics of bullying and body shaming. It chronicles a girl’s journey toward self-love and self-acceptance. A beautiful children’s book (with fold-out pages!) that captures the power of stereotypes and words and gives both parents and children tools to deal with societal expectations and experiences of discrimination.

The story is about a little girl who initially receives praise and encouragement for being so tall—until that very thing suddenly becomes a problem. She faces bullying and rejection because her body doesn’t conform to the supposed norm and outdated beauty standards. Through vivid illustrations, Vashti Harrison creates an emotional world of self-doubt and loneliness, only to then show a powerful path toward self-love and setting boundaries that encourages children to be themselves. The girl learns: She decides for herself who she is—and which words are allowed to describe her.

"Big" is a heartfelt picture book that makes challenging topics like bullying and body shaming understandable for children ages 3 and up, and offers parents an opportunity to talk with their children about body image and self-confidence. In this special book, Vashti Harrison draws on her own childhood experiences to help children develop a deeper understanding of diversity and empathy, while powerfully conveying an important message: Every child is exactly right just the way they are.