Who’s inside that hat?

Book excerpt: Anika is excited to see someone new move in next door, but something looks very different about her new neighbor! She has a pointy hat, a black cat and is up to something suspicious... Oh no! Witches don’t exist! Do they? Is everything as it seems? This rhyming picture book playfully introduces why we should not judge people by their appearance. Exploring how stereotypes and superficial judgements are often misleading. Instead of dealing with racism, diversity and equality head on, it provides a great way to discuss and explore these concepts with children. To help overcome gender stereotyping, the story has female lead characters of color. Exposure to gender and race diversity at an early age helps create a better foundation for equality, which is why Anika books feature female characters, and usually in non-gender stereotype roles. Providing an opportunity for kids to visualize diverse characters in different roles, and for parents to explore these concepts comfortably.