Reading The Skin You’re In hit close to home for me.

When I was a kid, I was bullied a lot. Like many kids who go through that, I spent way too much time looking in the mirror and wondering what I should change about myself to make people like me more. Maybe if I was thinner, acted different, or blended in better, things would be easier. It is a heavy thing for a child to carry, that feeling that who you are might somehow be the problem.

That is why Ellie’s journey in this story meant so much to me. Watching her wrestle with those same feelings and slowly realize that she does not need to change herself to be worthy of kindness or belonging was powerful. The moment she understands that she is just fine in the skin she is in, it feels like a breath of fresh air. It took me years to discover what she uncovers in this story. Imagine the impact on a child learning this early on!

Author Bob Kamp tells this story with playful, rhythmic rhyme that makes it fun to read aloud. The pacing flows naturally and the rhymes feel effortless, which makes the message easy for kids to absorb while still keeping the story lively and engaging.

The illustrations by Marry Manning are beautiful and full of personality. Each page is vibrant and expressive, bringing Ellie’s world to life in a way that pulls young readers right into the story.

I also had the opportunity to work on this book behind the scenes. I designed the cover and the interior layout, and served as project manager throughout the illustration and design process. A lot of time, care, and detail went into getting every page just right and making sure the book was beautifully prepared for print.

Together, the writing, artwork, and design come together to create a story that is both meaningful and enjoyable. It is the kind of book that can open important conversations with kids about kindness, confidence, and learning to feel comfortable in their own skin.

If I had read a story like this when I was younger, it would have meant the world to me. Books like this have the power to reach a child who feels alone and quietly remind them that they are already enough.

And that is a message every kid deserves to hear.

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