A parent might reach for this book when their child expresses feeling misunderstood, different from their peers, or struggles to find friends who appreciate their unique way of looking at the world. The story follows Santiago, a boy who perceives everything around him as a collection of shapes and patterns. This special viewpoint makes him feel lonely and isolated from his classmates, who don't see what he sees. He even tries to suppress his unique vision to fit in, but it only makes him unhappy. This gentle and affirming picture book for ages 6 to 9 beautifully explores themes of self-confidence, loneliness, and the power of finding a kindred spirit. It's an excellent choice for any child, but especially for one who feels 'quirky' or is neurodivergent. The story validates the experience of perceiving the world differently, framing it not as a problem to be fixed but as a unique gift that can be shared and celebrated with the right friend.
The book's central theme is neurodivergence, handled metaphorically through Santiago's sensory perception. This approach is secular and highly accessible. It directly addresses the feelings of loneliness and social isolation that can accompany being different. The resolution is entirely hopeful, celebrating the joy of finding a friend who accepts you for who you are, rather than demanding conformity.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for a sensitive, imaginative child aged 6-8 who feels out of sync with their peers. It would resonate deeply with a neurodivergent child (e.g., on the autism spectrum, with ADHD, or sensory processing differences) who needs to see their way of being in the world represented positively. It's for the child who sees the details others miss.
Parent Prep
The book can be read cold without any special preparation. The story is clear and positive. A parent might want to read the author's note in the back first, which provides helpful context on neurodiversity, to better facilitate a follow-up conversation if the child has questions. A parent overhears their child say, "Nobody gets me," or "Why am I the only one who thinks this way?" A teacher might note that a child seems to be 'in their own world' or has trouble connecting with classmates during group activities. The child might express frustration that others don't share their intense interests.
Age Experience
A younger reader (6) will connect with the straightforward narrative of feeling lonely and the happiness of finding a new friend. An older reader (8-9) will better grasp the deeper metaphor about neurodiversity, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to remain true to oneself in the face of social pressure.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many books about 'being different' that focus on a hobby or physical trait, this story masterfully illustrates an internal, cognitive difference. By visualizing Santiago's unique perception, it makes the invisible visible. Its resolution is also refreshingly realistic: he doesn't change the whole world's mind, but he finds one person who understands, showing that connection often happens on a small, personal scale.
Read plot summary
Santiago is a young boy who sees the world differently, perceiving objects and scenes as geometric shapes and patterns. His unique perspective isolates him from his peers who don't understand his descriptions. After an unhappy attempt to conform and see things 'normally', he meets a new student, Elia. Elia also sees the world differently, through colors and textures. They don't see things the same way, but they understand and appreciate each other's unique viewpoints, forging a strong friendship based on mutual respect for their individuality.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Santiago sees the world as shapes, and Elia sees it as colors and feelings. If you had a special way of seeing the world, what would it be? Would you see things as sounds, smells, or maybe memories?
2
Remember the part where Santiago tried to see the school bus as just a bus, not a 'yellow rectangle'? Why do you think he tried to change the way he saw things, and how did it make him feel inside?
3
When Santiago and Elia became friends, they didn't see things the exact same way, but they still understood each other. What are some ways we can be a good friend to someone whose brain works differently than ours?
4
Look at the illustrations where we see the world through Santiago's eyes. Which one was your favorite? What did you like about seeing something familiar, like a pear or a shadow, in a totally new way?
