Proud to Be a Poopini

Ethel King-Shaw is professor emerita of curriculum and instruction in
the Department of Teacher Preparation, University of Calgary.

Dave Sindrey’s experiences with hard-of-hearing children and their
families are reflected in his broader concern for children who are
sensitive about being different from their classmates.

Pogo Poopini comes from a family of circus performers. While at school,
Pogo eats and dresses like other children to appear “normal” and
hopes no one will find out how different his family is. Pogo worries
when the school announces an open house. His family closes down the
circus so they can all attend. When a fire breaks out in the auditorium
where all the families are gathered, the Poopinis apply their unique
talents to a rescue operation and gain widespread admiration in the
process.

The illustrations lend a whimsical touch to this story. While the
Poopini lifestyle is not one most children will identify with, the
emotional response to acceptance or rejection by a group will strike a
chord. For adults who work with children who have special needs, this
book makes the point that “being different” can mean being special.
Recommended.