Rufus & Olivia: A Tail of Acceptance

When Rufus comes into the home Olivia must learn to manage these new feelings. Olivia learns from Rufus that we all have similarities and differences, and that is what makes us unique and special. Together they come to realize what family is all about.Michele Walker is a Head Start Teacher. This is her first children’s book. She hopes to get this story into many classrooms. Questions are provided in the back of the book to promote conversation with young children on understanding acceptance; whether it be about color, ability or family dynamics. "In the society that we live in today, it can be overwhelming to understand the complexities with children. Children as young as two years old can notice differences in people when it comes to gender, race, and abilities. When adults choose to have open conversations with their children about these differences , why they are present, and how they are a strength, children learn that it is okay to be different.. with discussion questions provided at the back of the book by the author, adults are equipped to have a dialogue with their youngest learners. Conversations about differences are not always easy but with Rufus and Olivia, Walker has given adults a sound place to start." Gabie Mbenza-Ngoma 4th grade Teacher