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Rain Boy
A heartfelt picture book about differences, acceptance, and loving yourself for who you are.
Wherever he goes, Rain Boy brings wet—which means he's not very popular. Sun Kidd brings sunshine everywhere she goes, so everyone loves her. Only Sun Kidd sees what's special about Rain Boy. But when she invites him to her birthday party, disaster strikes, and Rain Boy storms. Now the world is nothing but rain. Will the other kids ever love Rain Boy for being himself? And. more importantly, can Rain Boy learn to love his rain? Debut author and illustrator Dylan Glynn's colorful and evocative illustrations color this story with all the emotions of the rainbow in this universal story of reaching out to those who look different from you, making new friends, and learning to love yourself.
• Important lessons on acceptance, bullying, self-reliance and empathy told in a beautifully illustrated, accessible story
• A great read-aloud book for families of children struggling to fit in and find their self-confidence
• Perfect book for educators, caregivers, and librarians to help with lessons on bullying, kindness, LGBQT themes, and friendship
Fans of One, The Big Umbrella, and Be Kind will find Rain Boy's striking artwork and positive message an important addition to their bookshelf.
• Read-aloud books for kids age 3–5
• #ownvoices
• Kindness books for kids
Dylan Glynn studied animation at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario, and La Poudrière in Valence, France. Dylan's work has been recognized by and exhibited in Society of Illustrators, American Illustration, Somerset House, and the Canadian Screen Awards. He is based in Toronto.
Wherever he goes, Rain Boy brings wet—which means he's not very popular. Sun Kidd brings sunshine everywhere she goes, so everyone loves her. Only Sun Kidd sees what's special about Rain Boy. But when she invites him to her birthday party, disaster strikes, and Rain Boy storms. Now the world is nothing but rain. Will the other kids ever love Rain Boy for being himself? And. more importantly, can Rain Boy learn to love his rain? Debut author and illustrator Dylan Glynn's colorful and evocative illustrations color this story with all the emotions of the rainbow in this universal story of reaching out to those who look different from you, making new friends, and learning to love yourself.
• Important lessons on acceptance, bullying, self-reliance and empathy told in a beautifully illustrated, accessible story
• A great read-aloud book for families of children struggling to fit in and find their self-confidence
• Perfect book for educators, caregivers, and librarians to help with lessons on bullying, kindness, LGBQT themes, and friendship
Fans of One, The Big Umbrella, and Be Kind will find Rain Boy's striking artwork and positive message an important addition to their bookshelf.
• Read-aloud books for kids age 3–5
• #ownvoices
• Kindness books for kids
Dylan Glynn studied animation at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario, and La Poudrière in Valence, France. Dylan's work has been recognized by and exhibited in Society of Illustrators, American Illustration, Somerset House, and the Canadian Screen Awards. He is based in Toronto.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published April 21, 2020
2 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 16, 2020
LGBQT themes? Um... excuse me? How does a book about an anthropomorphized cloud have LGBQT themes?
This is bizarre. I think it's supposed to be about bullying, but it's just strange. Rain Boy is an actual cloud. He rains on everything and the kids don't like him. Sun Kidd is a little black girl who glows (or something) and everybody likes her. So Rain Boy gets pissed off and causes it to rain for months, until everybody comes to like the rain. Then he peeks outside (it's not explained how he made it rain while he was inside) and sees people having fun. The book ends with "So the next time you're feeling down and your world is dark and gray... just look up." Because tilting your head back solves all your problems? I don't even know.
Rain Boy ruined the birthday party. He ruined the presents. He melted the cake. He soaked the basement. Sure, the other kids could've been kinder, but getting mad at Rain Boy for doing those things isn't the same thing as bullying. The word "bullying" becomes more and more meaningless when it's used like this. Rain Boy wasn't bullied. He was simply unpopular... and understandably so. If a kid gets invited to a birthday party and then throws all the presents in the pool and pees in the punch, it's not "bullying" when the other kids get angry. It's justified annoyance, and they shouldn't have to be friends with a kid like that if they don't want to.
I just don't get the characters, either. Rain Boy is a floating raincloud. Sun Kidd is a human child. Why isn't she just the sun? What a weird choice.
The writing isn't technically too bad, but the message is weak. And the illustrations are really not my thing. They're so scribbly and frenetic, and most of the characters look either deranged or angry. The pictures aren't appealing to look at.
Overall, I'd skip this one. There are better books out there about friendship and bullying.
This is bizarre. I think it's supposed to be about bullying, but it's just strange. Rain Boy is an actual cloud. He rains on everything and the kids don't like him. Sun Kidd is a little black girl who glows (or something) and everybody likes her. So Rain Boy gets pissed off and causes it to rain for months, until everybody comes to like the rain. Then he peeks outside (it's not explained how he made it rain while he was inside) and sees people having fun. The book ends with "So the next time you're feeling down and your world is dark and gray... just look up." Because tilting your head back solves all your problems? I don't even know.
Rain Boy ruined the birthday party. He ruined the presents. He melted the cake. He soaked the basement. Sure, the other kids could've been kinder, but getting mad at Rain Boy for doing those things isn't the same thing as bullying. The word "bullying" becomes more and more meaningless when it's used like this. Rain Boy wasn't bullied. He was simply unpopular... and understandably so. If a kid gets invited to a birthday party and then throws all the presents in the pool and pees in the punch, it's not "bullying" when the other kids get angry. It's justified annoyance, and they shouldn't have to be friends with a kid like that if they don't want to.
I just don't get the characters, either. Rain Boy is a floating raincloud. Sun Kidd is a human child. Why isn't she just the sun? What a weird choice.
The writing isn't technically too bad, but the message is weak. And the illustrations are really not my thing. They're so scribbly and frenetic, and most of the characters look either deranged or angry. The pictures aren't appealing to look at.
Overall, I'd skip this one. There are better books out there about friendship and bullying.
October 3, 2020
I'm not even sure what this was supposed to be...something about accepting people as they are? ...about being okay with bad moods? Was the rainbow meant to be about LGBTQ children? The metaphors were both too glaring and too mixed-up to really make sense. Why was everyone else human but rain boy was a dripping cloud, except Sunn Kid who is sort of human but also a sun?
My 7 year old's take: "Well, people should have been nice to Rain Boy I guess. But how can you blame people for being mad that he got water all over the carpet in a basement? That's going to be a big mess to clean up! Sunn was kind of bratty to get so mad that people were just upset that a cloud flew into a party and soaked everything."
My 7 year old's take: "Well, people should have been nice to Rain Boy I guess. But how can you blame people for being mad that he got water all over the carpet in a basement? That's going to be a big mess to clean up! Sunn was kind of bratty to get so mad that people were just upset that a cloud flew into a party and soaked everything."
March 14, 2020
To his dismay, Rain Boy is shunned wherever he goes since most folks prefer warm, sunny days to the more inclement weather that he brings. Even though she's far more popular than Rain Boy, Sun Kidd sees his worthiness, and she even invites him to her birthday party. But the other attendees aren't very welcoming, especially since his presence seems to put a damper on things, and even the food and presents get wet. Ashamed and feeling bullied, Rain Boy leaves the party and stirs up quite a storm. Eventually, the others get used to all that rain and learn to appreciate it. Rain Boy and Sun Kidd continue to build their friendship, and the book ends on a positive note with a reminder that there is often a rainbow and some slice of hope after even the worst storms. The illustrations were created with watercolor, cut paper, pastels, and colored pencils. There's a good message of acceptance, tolerance, and understanding in this book, but it seemed too heavy-handed for my tastes.
February 18, 2021
This book got phenomenal reviews and I'm trying to figure out why. Messy illustrations accompany a story of a raincloud that is supposed to be a boy and a girl who is a sun. Why is one child a human character but the other is a weather implement?
"Rain Boy" brings rain everywhere he goes, obviously. So no one likes him. But "Sun Girl" brings sunshine, so everyone loves her. There's a problem with this story. Rain Boy can't help that he rains everywhere. Rain is useful and necessary. So is sunshine. But one is not better than the other. Great, together they create a rainbow.
This book is stupid.
"Rain Boy" brings rain everywhere he goes, obviously. So no one likes him. But "Sun Girl" brings sunshine, so everyone loves her. There's a problem with this story. Rain Boy can't help that he rains everywhere. Rain is useful and necessary. So is sunshine. But one is not better than the other. Great, together they create a rainbow.
This book is stupid.
September 19, 2024
Upon reflection this book disappointed me. The story seemed like it would start out fairly cute, but it just left me very unsatisfied in the end. I also really just didn't like any of the characters really, and it is not like anyone supported another character, every character was just left to their own feelings and actions.
The artwork felt a little too cluttered for me, like there were too many details, or to few to figure out what was going on in the scenes.
Honestly not a book I would be likely to recommend.
The artwork felt a little too cluttered for me, like there were too many details, or to few to figure out what was going on in the scenes.
Honestly not a book I would be likely to recommend.
September 24, 2020
Ok, I've been noticing that so many picture books published this year are leaning towards the didactic side but this one is ridiculous. I can't imagine that any child needs to be slammed over the head so hard with a message. Please! Trust the reader!
May 10, 2024
The 2 is for the pictures, the actual story is awful!
June 20, 2021
Heart-warming!
April 21, 2020
Storm clouds and gloomy weather are blown into a new light, which gives a lovely message of hope and rays of healthy self-esteem.
Rain Boy has it rough. While he tries to get along with everyone at school, no one ever seems to like having him around. Especially since he's always brings moisture. When Sun Kidd joins the class, she draws in new friends instantly with her sparkling warmth. Which makes Rain Boy even more alone than before. As Sun Kidd throws a part, Rain Boy hopes it will be his chance at some fun, but things don't run smoothly.
The two main characters in this book are simple yet clever. A rain cloud already sets many readers into a wet, heavier atmosphere, where the sun brings happiness and brightness. So, it's no problem for readers to sink right into the tale thanks to the familiar emotions already connected with the two sorts of weather. This also works nicely with the message, since rain clouds aren't really bad but have their positive, necessary and important aspects. No one wants just sunny weather, either.
The illustrations carry a very creative flair and steer clear from the usual exact lines and depictions. Rain Boy consists of a cloud with lines of raindrops forming his legs and arms. It's interesting to see see him in direct contrast with the very human students. Interestingly enough, Sun Kidd is illustrated pretty much as a normal, human girl...which my kids found a bit odd. The atmosphere does come across clear in every picture, and it's fun to flip through and enjoy the story that way alone.
As for the message, it comes across loud and clear. It's obvious that this book was written with an intended purpose, and the theme is brought across very bluntly—everyone is special in their own way and is important. Bullying or shutting others out isn't right, and everyone should be proud of who they are.
I received an ARC copy and enjoyed the clever characters and wonderful message.
Rain Boy has it rough. While he tries to get along with everyone at school, no one ever seems to like having him around. Especially since he's always brings moisture. When Sun Kidd joins the class, she draws in new friends instantly with her sparkling warmth. Which makes Rain Boy even more alone than before. As Sun Kidd throws a part, Rain Boy hopes it will be his chance at some fun, but things don't run smoothly.
The two main characters in this book are simple yet clever. A rain cloud already sets many readers into a wet, heavier atmosphere, where the sun brings happiness and brightness. So, it's no problem for readers to sink right into the tale thanks to the familiar emotions already connected with the two sorts of weather. This also works nicely with the message, since rain clouds aren't really bad but have their positive, necessary and important aspects. No one wants just sunny weather, either.
The illustrations carry a very creative flair and steer clear from the usual exact lines and depictions. Rain Boy consists of a cloud with lines of raindrops forming his legs and arms. It's interesting to see see him in direct contrast with the very human students. Interestingly enough, Sun Kidd is illustrated pretty much as a normal, human girl...which my kids found a bit odd. The atmosphere does come across clear in every picture, and it's fun to flip through and enjoy the story that way alone.
As for the message, it comes across loud and clear. It's obvious that this book was written with an intended purpose, and the theme is brought across very bluntly—everyone is special in their own way and is important. Bullying or shutting others out isn't right, and everyone should be proud of who they are.
I received an ARC copy and enjoyed the clever characters and wonderful message.
May 5, 2020
Unusual little story about how rain and Sun are both necessary parts of our world, and how they need each other. The illustrations reminded me of the '90s for whatever reason.
October 26, 2021
hate the illustrations. I don't understand why rain boy is a cloud when all the other characters, including the sun are humans
June 25, 2020
This review originally appeared on Mr. Alex's Bookshelf:
https://mralexbookshelf.com/2020/06/2...
Into every life, a little rain must fall. But, what if you are that rain? And nobody appreciates you? Sure, everybody likes sunshine. But let a rain cloud ruin your picnic, or flood your basement, or ruin your play date, and you are bound to be miffed. Such is the story of our hero, Rain Boy, a kid unlike any other.
Unpopular from the start, Rain Boy’s unpopularity intensified when he was caught in Sun Kidd’s shadow, a delightfully bright child from “somewhere on the other side of the planet.” Everybody wanted to be near her; magnifying Rain Boy’s problems. When she invites him to a sleepover birthday party, the kids taunt him with cries of “Rain rain go away.” Humiliating. Heartbreaking.
Sun Kidd, however, knows what true friendship is, and rushes to Rain Boy’s defense when the other children are cruel.
How their friendship develops, and how the other children react when both Rain Boy and Sun Kidd temporarily disappear from site, is a testament to friendship and how, when confronted with their own internal biases, people can overcome them and see truth.
By turning inward, people can see what is right in front of their own faces; if they allow it sufficient time to develop. Were it not for Rain Boy, people realize, the world would be a much duller place; both figuratively and literally.
Perhaps most importantly, children will understand that through the power of friendship, beautiful things can happen. Indeed, color can blossom in an otherwise lifeless sky.
Our thanks to Chronicle Books for providing a complimentary Review Copy of this book. The reviews expressed herein are my own.
https://mralexbookshelf.com/2020/06/2...
Into every life, a little rain must fall. But, what if you are that rain? And nobody appreciates you? Sure, everybody likes sunshine. But let a rain cloud ruin your picnic, or flood your basement, or ruin your play date, and you are bound to be miffed. Such is the story of our hero, Rain Boy, a kid unlike any other.
Unpopular from the start, Rain Boy’s unpopularity intensified when he was caught in Sun Kidd’s shadow, a delightfully bright child from “somewhere on the other side of the planet.” Everybody wanted to be near her; magnifying Rain Boy’s problems. When she invites him to a sleepover birthday party, the kids taunt him with cries of “Rain rain go away.” Humiliating. Heartbreaking.
Sun Kidd, however, knows what true friendship is, and rushes to Rain Boy’s defense when the other children are cruel.
How their friendship develops, and how the other children react when both Rain Boy and Sun Kidd temporarily disappear from site, is a testament to friendship and how, when confronted with their own internal biases, people can overcome them and see truth.
By turning inward, people can see what is right in front of their own faces; if they allow it sufficient time to develop. Were it not for Rain Boy, people realize, the world would be a much duller place; both figuratively and literally.
Perhaps most importantly, children will understand that through the power of friendship, beautiful things can happen. Indeed, color can blossom in an otherwise lifeless sky.
Our thanks to Chronicle Books for providing a complimentary Review Copy of this book. The reviews expressed herein are my own.
July 19, 2025
I have no idea what this story is about. We see kids at school and there is Rain boy who rains all the time and people don't like and Sun Kidd who is sunny and everyone loves.
The story could be about bullying, or being an outcast. Eventually, there seems to be some people who like part of rain boy and they go play in the rain or something. I don't know. This thing is a huge mess. It doesn't make sense. Is is simple about weather. People like sunny days and don't like raining days and we get to see them as kids. Just strange.
Now, I do love a rainy day. I like overcast and I'm not crazy about a sunny day. I like indirect sun or sunshine if it's below 50 degrees outside. Anyway.
The kids in the artwork look terrible. I loved the use of colors and everything going on. The other children seemed to be fuzzy and obviously this book was not about the crowd. The crowd is ugly, like a mob. The artwork is watercolor, cut paper, pastels and color pencils. It's surreal and it doesn't make much sense like the story.
I'm not sure who is going to like this book. The author didn't seem to have a clear idea what he was doing. Strange little book
The story could be about bullying, or being an outcast. Eventually, there seems to be some people who like part of rain boy and they go play in the rain or something. I don't know. This thing is a huge mess. It doesn't make sense. Is is simple about weather. People like sunny days and don't like raining days and we get to see them as kids. Just strange.
Now, I do love a rainy day. I like overcast and I'm not crazy about a sunny day. I like indirect sun or sunshine if it's below 50 degrees outside. Anyway.
The kids in the artwork look terrible. I loved the use of colors and everything going on. The other children seemed to be fuzzy and obviously this book was not about the crowd. The crowd is ugly, like a mob. The artwork is watercolor, cut paper, pastels and color pencils. It's surreal and it doesn't make much sense like the story.
I'm not sure who is going to like this book. The author didn't seem to have a clear idea what he was doing. Strange little book
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May 15, 2020Rain Boy always feels excluded in the class and with his peers. Whenever he is around, he brings his rainstorm with him. When Sun Kidd invites everyone to her party, everyone comes because she is so bright and happy. The others don't want Rain Boy to ruin the day. However after hanging around Rain Boy and learning to respect him, they learn that he has an important place. The beautiful watercolor and pastel illustrations contribute to making this story a beautiful read to start a conversation about emotions and acceptance.
Reviewer #16
Reviewer #16
July 27, 2020
If I still watched Reading Rainbow, LeVar Burton would be recommending this book. It teaches children (and perhaps could teach some of you non-children/adults) to appreciate, and to look out for each other, beyond your own comfortable communities.
It’s beautifully illustrated, and helps children to find value in themselves no matter who they are, and whatever situation they find they’re stuck in.
It’s beautifully illustrated, and helps children to find value in themselves no matter who they are, and whatever situation they find they’re stuck in.
April 13, 2022
There's... a lot going on here. At first I thought, 'Oh, people don't like to be around Rain Boy because he's always in a foul mood and he spreads it around wherever he goes,' but no, he's a happy little boy-cloud who simply 'ruins' things with his presence. Then it just goes downhill from there. As the story begins to make less and less sense, the art becomes more and more chaotic. I normally love most things from Chronicle Books, but this is a definite fail.
April 25, 2020
The artwork of this book is beautiful and keeps your eye on the page long after you have read the words. It is worth owning just as an art object, but writing is no slouch either. The story's depth resides in its ability to portray complex feelings of alienation in a metaphor that is easily accessible to both adults and children.
May 14, 2020
I can't even with these illustrations--they're so unique and cutely abstract with a juxtaposing gloomy and bright colors. Really expressive and kiddish. The story about a rain cloud who no one else wanted to be around (until a big storm traps them all inside and they learn to enjoy the rain), was sweet, too.
June 10, 2020
The story line is simple but perfect for my preschooler. It teaches becoming accepting of differences while I (mom) get to look at beautiful and unique illustrations.
It is hands down her favorite new book (and we’ve bought many during this quarantine) we read it nightly and she usually requests an encore during the day! Definitely recommend to anyone with preschool/younger elementary age.
It is hands down her favorite new book (and we’ve bought many during this quarantine) we read it nightly and she usually requests an encore during the day! Definitely recommend to anyone with preschool/younger elementary age.
Read
June 22, 2020Everywhere Rain Boy goes, he's shunned and bullied. "Rain, rain go away!" But when a new kid at school finally stands up for him, things begin to change. With evocative illustrations and a strong message of acceptance, this picture book is a good choice for starting conversations about bullying and about understanding and celebrating our differences.
July 28, 2020
A heartfelt children's story about being accepted for who you are. This book is so beautifully and perfectly illustrated that I some times had trouble turning the page. Glynn skillfully tells the story of rain boy in a way that genuinely speaks to the true feelings of loneliness and isolation in a way that children can relate to. A true gem to add to my children's book collection.
March 3, 2024
Rain Boy, a thought provoking, conversation building book that has been well received by children of all ages. Children make connections and develop empathy as they experience Rain Boy with a very relatable topic. Through carefully chosen words and detailed illustrations, this will soon be a favorite. It is a must have for home and professional bookshelves!
May 8, 2020
A sweet, if a little heavy-handed message, about acceptance and kindness. The art is expressive and a little Paul Klee. I could see this being an excellent resource for social-emotional learning in a classroom setting.
July 27, 2020
Rain Boy is a beautiful, important read for any growing human in your life. A story of acceptance and embracing what makes you different -- what makes you, you! Definitely recommend for anyone helping to raise the next generation to be more open, more loving, more accepting.
July 27, 2020
This book has a beautiful message that is accompanied by even more beautiful illustrations. Each page is a new emotion as the artist really draws you into the narrative and expression in the story. Absolutely loved this book.
July 27, 2020
Beautiful first book from illustrator and animator Dylan Glynn. His message of tolerance and acceptance, which hints towards an LGBTQ reading, is a welcome reminder in any young reader’s (or adult’s) library.
Unique and expressive watercolour and pastel illustrations make this book stand out.
Unique and expressive watercolour and pastel illustrations make this book stand out.
July 29, 2020
A gorgeously illustrated story with a clever concept and a heartfelt message. Simple enough for very young readers, but nuanced and full of emotion that will fascinate older kids as well. The pictures are stunning and expressive - love it
March 22, 2021
Rain Boy feels left out until, Sun Girl invites him to her birthday. The kids are mean to Rain Boy and Sun Girl gets upset and storms up to her room. Rain Boy makes it rain for days until, the kids who were mean to him learn to enjoy the the rain.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2024
Perfect read aloud! This book is super good. I loved that it talked about the "popular" kid standing up for the not so "popular" kid. This is not what normally happens, but I think it shows kids that it is okay to stand up. I love how Sun Kidd and Rain Boy work together to make fun for everyone.
pb-read
May 31, 2020Digital copy accessed through Edelweiss
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews