The Bookshelf: Unique Monique

What is the story about?

Unique Monique is a light hearted story about a young school girl who wishes to be different. She found her uniform extremely dull and tries many ways to be unique. In her effort to look different, she becomes a role model to other students to look different too and causes a stir in the school. The teachers and school principal attempts to put a stop to this by enforcing rules that goes against Monique's efforts. The author of the story is Maria Rousaki and the illustrator, Polina Papanikolaou. 

Where I bought the book?

I bought this book in Bras Basah, in the same building as Art Friend somewhere in 2007 or 2008. If I can recall correctly, the shop is called, 'The Children's Book Store'. I have not been there for a long time; hence I am not sure if the shop still exists today. However, I must say that this shop is a gem. There are many children's books in the shop and they are very affordable. Most children's books in common shops are pretty expensive (e.g. Borders). But I must also highlight that one will not find common children's book titles (e.g. Guess How Much I love You, The Rainbow Fish and so on)  in this shop. Instead, you find other treasures such as Unique Monique. I bought quite a number of books from this shop and I would stay in the shop for hours, reading and selecting books to buy J

How much does it cost?

S$ 8.00. For a hardcover book, this is a steal.

What I like about the book?

At first glance, most would think that this book would be preferred by a girl. However, my younger brothers love reading this book. They always have many good laughs at the things that Monique wears to make her look different. They are pretty tickled by it and I like that this book is able to reach the young male readers. Another thing that I like about this book is the storyline. The book has a wonderful story about being unique and the ways of being unconventional. In this world, many people are conventional and non-risk takers. This book allows children to relate to the idea of being unconventional and engages them into it. Moreover, children are greater divergent thinkers and this book definitely provides them the avenue to use their capabilities. This book can be read to children between the ages of 4 to 8 years old.