What do you think?
Rate this book
It's Me
It’s Me is dedicated to every person who has ever felt less about who they are or want to be because of someone else’s opinion, feelings, or prejudice. Let's ditch the prejudiced labeling, and embrace our Human Race for the diversity, inclusivity, equity and individuality we all deserve.
29 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2020
11 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Kubiak
5 books28 followersJeff is an educator in Northern California who strives to connect with students by bringing real world experiences to them, engaging in lessons and play, and becoming a part of the learning process with them.
He is focused on relationships and student engagement, equity, inclusion, and compassion.
Jeff focused on books that can help make the world, and others better. Spreading kindness, Seeing all people, showing empathy, and more.
Jeff is based in California and can be found at jeffkubiak.com, Twitter at @jeffreykubiak and jeffkubiak.blogspot.com/.
Jeff loves children's literature, graphic novels, and reading to learn. It's Me is Jeff's second book. He hopes to continue writing books that bring about character change and inspiring others to help make our world a better place.
Be sure to check out his latest book, "Monsters Have Manners!"
Jeff loves to visit schools and districts to speak about kindness integration, equity, inclusion, SEL and how we need to "SEE" all students.
He is focused on relationships and student engagement, equity, inclusion, and compassion.
Jeff focused on books that can help make the world, and others better. Spreading kindness, Seeing all people, showing empathy, and more.
Jeff is based in California and can be found at jeffkubiak.com, Twitter at @jeffreykubiak and jeffkubiak.blogspot.com/.
Jeff loves children's literature, graphic novels, and reading to learn. It's Me is Jeff's second book. He hopes to continue writing books that bring about character change and inspiring others to help make our world a better place.
Be sure to check out his latest book, "Monsters Have Manners!"
Jeff loves to visit schools and districts to speak about kindness integration, equity, inclusion, SEL and how we need to "SEE" all students.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
February 6, 2021
As I began reading this book I immediately thought of it as a wonderful resource for classrooms, libraries, counselors, and of course families. It celebrates diversity, which includes medical reasons that make us different, as well as many individual characteristics.
Each spread shows a person on the left and an introduction on the left. Young people will be interested in the fact that the vignettes are written by students, teachers, and educators. This is sure to come across as being more relatable.
We see Isaiah, age 10 who lacks confidence and self-esteem. On the facing page are thoughts from Isaiah. We see that he jokes and makes fun of people, but really he is seeking only to be liked. He doesn’t get much attention at home, so he is reaching out by trying to get a laugh and a giggle. Down deep Isaiah is an amazing writer. That’s who Isiah really is.
This book opens worthwhile discussions about so many things, prejudice, kindness, ignorance, preconceived notions, reacting without facts, the topics felt unending.
I highly recommend this book.
My thanks to iRead Book Tours and the author for a copy of this book. I was completely free to post my thoughts.
Each spread shows a person on the left and an introduction on the left. Young people will be interested in the fact that the vignettes are written by students, teachers, and educators. This is sure to come across as being more relatable.
We see Isaiah, age 10 who lacks confidence and self-esteem. On the facing page are thoughts from Isaiah. We see that he jokes and makes fun of people, but really he is seeking only to be liked. He doesn’t get much attention at home, so he is reaching out by trying to get a laugh and a giggle. Down deep Isaiah is an amazing writer. That’s who Isiah really is.
This book opens worthwhile discussions about so many things, prejudice, kindness, ignorance, preconceived notions, reacting without facts, the topics felt unending.
I highly recommend this book.
My thanks to iRead Book Tours and the author for a copy of this book. I was completely free to post my thoughts.
January 27, 2021
It's Me is an non-fiction children's book for older readers (8+) that includes real-life stories about a different person on each page. On these pages is someone who doesn't feel like they are enough. Not good enough, smart enough, pretty enough, capable enough, etc. It's a book that even adults will be able to relate to.
Each person featured has something that others may have judged them for. From skin color to learning disorders, an eating disorder, and more, each person's "stigma" is brought to life with the beautiful illustrations. And what this book aims to do is showcase that each person is still a person. They are human. They have feelings. They wanted to be accepted for who they are. Their labels do not define them. Being Black does not make someone less than. Being autistic does not make someone less than. Being LGBTQ does not make someone less than. Being dyslexic, disabled, depressed... none of that makes someone less than. It's just a part of their whole overall person, and there is no reason these "labels" should make them feel like they are not good enough.
As a kid myself, I could relate to both Isaiah and Oscar. I was a shy, quiet kid who preferred books and lacked self-esteem/confidence. It wasn't easy being made to feel like a "weirdo" or like I wasn't good enough to be friends with. It also didn't help growing up in a single parent household with a narcissistic parent. As an adult, I still have moments where I don't feel good enough. I deal with anxiety, depression, and OCD (which is something I had as a kid and didn't understand until I was officially diagnosed in my twenties). But these things don't make me who I am. They're just parts of my whole being.
As a parent, I know both of my kids can relate to some of the people featured in this book. My five year old son is on the spectrum and has been labeled autistic. My fourteen year old son has been labeled with anxiety and depression, and I know he feels like he's not good enough because kids at school ostracize him and think he's weird. But these are just labels. They shouldn't be used to define a person for who they really are.
It's Me is a powerful, emotional, relevant read, and both kids and adults alike will find it resonating with them in some way. I know, while reading this, I wanted to find each person showcased in the book and give them a hug and tell them they are good enough. They are worthy. They are loved. The are enough.
Highly recommend.
5 stars.
Each person featured has something that others may have judged them for. From skin color to learning disorders, an eating disorder, and more, each person's "stigma" is brought to life with the beautiful illustrations. And what this book aims to do is showcase that each person is still a person. They are human. They have feelings. They wanted to be accepted for who they are. Their labels do not define them. Being Black does not make someone less than. Being autistic does not make someone less than. Being LGBTQ does not make someone less than. Being dyslexic, disabled, depressed... none of that makes someone less than. It's just a part of their whole overall person, and there is no reason these "labels" should make them feel like they are not good enough.
As a kid myself, I could relate to both Isaiah and Oscar. I was a shy, quiet kid who preferred books and lacked self-esteem/confidence. It wasn't easy being made to feel like a "weirdo" or like I wasn't good enough to be friends with. It also didn't help growing up in a single parent household with a narcissistic parent. As an adult, I still have moments where I don't feel good enough. I deal with anxiety, depression, and OCD (which is something I had as a kid and didn't understand until I was officially diagnosed in my twenties). But these things don't make me who I am. They're just parts of my whole being.
As a parent, I know both of my kids can relate to some of the people featured in this book. My five year old son is on the spectrum and has been labeled autistic. My fourteen year old son has been labeled with anxiety and depression, and I know he feels like he's not good enough because kids at school ostracize him and think he's weird. But these are just labels. They shouldn't be used to define a person for who they really are.
It's Me is a powerful, emotional, relevant read, and both kids and adults alike will find it resonating with them in some way. I know, while reading this, I wanted to find each person showcased in the book and give them a hug and tell them they are good enough. They are worthy. They are loved. The are enough.
Highly recommend.
5 stars.
February 8, 2021
As someone who is "different" in the "normal" society, I am able to resonate with this book quite well.
The book attempts to remove labels projected on different people throughout the book, unfortunately to do that, the labels have to be seen in order to remove them.
Each page is about a real person who is still struggling to find their place in society. Most all of the colorful photos have names changed to protect them but still their feelings are heard through each individual's own words. In any case, the reader clearly is able to see the adults and children and the labeling that has been thrust upon them. Each persons words are then ended by the words, "It's Me" thus the title of the book.
I do want to mention that there are several topics addressed in this book that often we as society will quarrel about. I think that the book opens opportunity for conversations that are not only on point in today's world, but an opportunity to show kindness.
I liked what the author was trying to do and I do think it works to an extent. At least the point of the book is that even with struggles, each person depicted might just be like you and to give them a chance.
This book is not aimed at children younger than eight and it is understandable why. However, with the resources included in the back, which are several, including a glossary, parents can still talk to the younger set and begin to instill those conversations that I mentioned above.
Terrific book that I think should be included in all homeschool and classroom settings.
5 stars
Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book from the author. The review presented here is 100% my own opinions that may differ from yours. ~Michelle
The book attempts to remove labels projected on different people throughout the book, unfortunately to do that, the labels have to be seen in order to remove them.
Each page is about a real person who is still struggling to find their place in society. Most all of the colorful photos have names changed to protect them but still their feelings are heard through each individual's own words. In any case, the reader clearly is able to see the adults and children and the labeling that has been thrust upon them. Each persons words are then ended by the words, "It's Me" thus the title of the book.
I do want to mention that there are several topics addressed in this book that often we as society will quarrel about. I think that the book opens opportunity for conversations that are not only on point in today's world, but an opportunity to show kindness.
I liked what the author was trying to do and I do think it works to an extent. At least the point of the book is that even with struggles, each person depicted might just be like you and to give them a chance.
This book is not aimed at children younger than eight and it is understandable why. However, with the resources included in the back, which are several, including a glossary, parents can still talk to the younger set and begin to instill those conversations that I mentioned above.
Terrific book that I think should be included in all homeschool and classroom settings.
5 stars
Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book from the author. The review presented here is 100% my own opinions that may differ from yours. ~Michelle
February 2, 2021
This is a must read for all children. It's Me by Jeff Kubiak is a Middle Grade Fiction book. It is geared toward ages 8-12. I did read this book with my 9 and 7 year old sons. The reason is is geared toward middle grade is the fact that it touches on some sensitive subjects. Such as: Racism, bullying, ADHD, and other social issues. The United States is a melting pot of cultures and this book is great to show how we are different and alike.
I was bullied as a kid. I did not come from much. I wore the same outfits over and over. I remember being ridiculed for it. I can't imagine being a kid now and being ridiculed for my color, race or religion. Each story in this book is full of empathy, diversity and issues that one might be ridiculed for. For example, we really enjoyed the ADHD story. My 9 year old son has ADHD. He has good days and bad days. However, he has been made fun of because he was different.
This book is perfect for understanding of all in today's crazy world. I love all of the eye opening poems that reflect on everyone's uniqueness. My boys and I really enjoyed this book. It reads like graphic novel which was cool.
I received a copy of this book through IRead book tours - all thoughts are my own.
I was bullied as a kid. I did not come from much. I wore the same outfits over and over. I remember being ridiculed for it. I can't imagine being a kid now and being ridiculed for my color, race or religion. Each story in this book is full of empathy, diversity and issues that one might be ridiculed for. For example, we really enjoyed the ADHD story. My 9 year old son has ADHD. He has good days and bad days. However, he has been made fun of because he was different.
This book is perfect for understanding of all in today's crazy world. I love all of the eye opening poems that reflect on everyone's uniqueness. My boys and I really enjoyed this book. It reads like graphic novel which was cool.
I received a copy of this book through IRead book tours - all thoughts are my own.
February 14, 2021
It’s me is a fascinating and interesting book that is written for today’s world. So many children suffer because of not being seen for who they really are. It is not just one race or color, it is all children. I saw this growing up, because I was one that was a little different, so I wasn’t seen for who I was but who people tagged me I was. And many years later, that still stings. Today, I’m glad to see books such as this one to help kids understand its OK to be different. It’s ok to be just as you are, because God made us a unique, and who can compete with that!
Author Jeff Kubiak does a fantastic job writing this book, and his love for children is evident in the words he writes. This is an amazing book for any classroom. I think it is also a great book for families and can be a good conversation starter. If you need help teaching your child how to accept others as they are, this is a great book to help you.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
.
Author Jeff Kubiak does a fantastic job writing this book, and his love for children is evident in the words he writes. This is an amazing book for any classroom. I think it is also a great book for families and can be a good conversation starter. If you need help teaching your child how to accept others as they are, this is a great book to help you.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
.
January 26, 2021
This book made quite an impact on me. It’s powerful, empowering, and inclusive, involving people of diverse cultures, ages, belief systems, struggles, and more. It showcases various people who feel overlooked, discounted, or misjudged in some way and their desires to be seen and accepted.
I am moved by each person’s account. It is effortless to empathize with their heartfelt pleas—because don’t we all want to be ourselves and be acknowledged and accepted for our uniqueness?
With candid disclosures and avatar-like illustrations, It’s Me gently elaborates and illuminates many real-life people who desire to be seen, heard, and accepted. Recognizing our differences with a sympathetic heart helps us understand that everyone is flawed, everyone is struggling with something, and everyone desires to be who they are without consequences.
Dɪsᴄʟᴏsᴜʀᴇ: I ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟɪᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʀʏ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. Mʏ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴡᴀs ɴᴏᴛ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴄᴇᴅ.
I am moved by each person’s account. It is effortless to empathize with their heartfelt pleas—because don’t we all want to be ourselves and be acknowledged and accepted for our uniqueness?
With candid disclosures and avatar-like illustrations, It’s Me gently elaborates and illuminates many real-life people who desire to be seen, heard, and accepted. Recognizing our differences with a sympathetic heart helps us understand that everyone is flawed, everyone is struggling with something, and everyone desires to be who they are without consequences.
Dɪsᴄʟᴏsᴜʀᴇ: I ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟɪᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʀʏ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. Mʏ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴡᴀs ɴᴏᴛ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴄᴇᴅ.
February 12, 2021
One of the best books to read
I enjoyed reading this book. I want my daughter to read this book. I knew that she can relate to one of the characters from the story and so is my son. Having two teen-ager kids can be challenging especially for their peers and society. This book is one of the best short books that me and my daughter I both read.
Just because you are different from looks, colors, and ethnicity, people do not have the right to judge you. It is a shame that they do not have the chance to know the real you as a person inside not only from the outside. I am an Asian American and proud of what where I come from. I have no secrets from my kids. They know what are my struggles before I came here to America. I always told my kids to be you. You will be yourself and always fights for what you believed is right.
I enjoyed reading this book. I want my daughter to read this book. I knew that she can relate to one of the characters from the story and so is my son. Having two teen-ager kids can be challenging especially for their peers and society. This book is one of the best short books that me and my daughter I both read.
Just because you are different from looks, colors, and ethnicity, people do not have the right to judge you. It is a shame that they do not have the chance to know the real you as a person inside not only from the outside. I am an Asian American and proud of what where I come from. I have no secrets from my kids. They know what are my struggles before I came here to America. I always told my kids to be you. You will be yourself and always fights for what you believed is right.
February 2, 2021
It's Me is a very good, simple textbook dealing with many types of behavioral or other differences in individuals. It points out their negative and positive differences, seeking understanding and acceptance. Its mission is to aid each reader in becoming more tolerant and accepting of others.
This is non-fiction based on real people.
I do hope these varying types realize they have an obligation to overcome tendencies and be accepting of others as well. We each need strong support and acceptance. We each have individual feelings.
The watercolor art by Briannah Altpeter is simple but effective.
I offer a Four and a Half Stars rating for this much-needed book.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.
This is non-fiction based on real people.
I do hope these varying types realize they have an obligation to overcome tendencies and be accepting of others as well. We each need strong support and acceptance. We each have individual feelings.
The watercolor art by Briannah Altpeter is simple but effective.
I offer a Four and a Half Stars rating for this much-needed book.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.
December 22, 2020
Wow, this book is stunning. It's raw and will give you so much to think about!
This is a book that celebrates each of us being who we are, on the outside and within. There is a different person featured on each page telling us who they really are. They share secrets and fears that will bring tears to your eyes. It's an emotional journey that will make you reflect on your own bias and strive to do better. I think this is a great book for anyone to read! It would be a wonderful book for children in school.
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
This is a book that celebrates each of us being who we are, on the outside and within. There is a different person featured on each page telling us who they really are. They share secrets and fears that will bring tears to your eyes. It's an emotional journey that will make you reflect on your own bias and strive to do better. I think this is a great book for anyone to read! It would be a wonderful book for children in school.
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
February 3, 2021
It is a pure joy to read a book that celebrates our uniqueness. The vignettes of the various people provide an excellent opportunity to discuss with your children what makes us each unique. Each vignette was written by a real person who shares their pain from not being seen for who they truly are. Each tells us what they have to offer if only we look beyond the skin color, the body image, their religion, etc. The book will also resonate with those children who may be feeling their own pain and will come to realize they are not the only ones.
Hopefully this book will lead to more people embracing the diversity that lives among us. The world is much more beautiful with them in it.
Hopefully this book will lead to more people embracing the diversity that lives among us. The world is much more beautiful with them in it.
February 2, 2022
This book was given to my son Jaden as a gift by Mr. Kubiak a year ago. Yesterday while unpacking from our recent move I opened it and was AMAZED at the content and the writing. This book explores many social issues that drastically damage our youth. It delivers understanding at a level for their stage of development. I wish this book could be a part of the curriculum across America. Well done.
March 9, 2022
This book should be in all elementary schools, and could even help students in middle and high schools! So many people, especially children, are going through something that causes them to be judged and talked about, and so many people can be cruel and unsympathetic to them. That makes me so sad.
Do people think they choose to be "different"? Why don't they think about how they would feel if they were treated like that? I've never understood why some people have no compassion for others. This world is hard enough to live in without being badly treated.
If you think about it, none of us are perfect. We all have flaws and imperfections. They may or may not be something that people notice right away, but how would we feel if we were treated badly, excluded, talked about, or made fun of?
This book is full of real stories written by real people, students, teachers, and educators. Their words are powerful. Their feelings are raw. The book is emotional. This book is a must read for school children, and in my opinion, anyone of any age.
The illustrations are great!
Do people think they choose to be "different"? Why don't they think about how they would feel if they were treated like that? I've never understood why some people have no compassion for others. This world is hard enough to live in without being badly treated.
If you think about it, none of us are perfect. We all have flaws and imperfections. They may or may not be something that people notice right away, but how would we feel if we were treated badly, excluded, talked about, or made fun of?
This book is full of real stories written by real people, students, teachers, and educators. Their words are powerful. Their feelings are raw. The book is emotional. This book is a must read for school children, and in my opinion, anyone of any age.
The illustrations are great!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews