Kathryn Cave delivers a simple yet original story about Something Else, who lives “on a windy hill alone with nothing to be friends with.” He tries hard to be accepted but experiences disappointments until he meets Something – a creature even more peculiar than himself. “Something Else “ (1995, Puffin Books) brought much acclaim to the British children’s author, who was awarded for the Services of Tolerance and became a UNESCO prize winner.
This book review contains spoilers.
Something Else wishes to be friends with others: he tries to walk, sit and join their games without success. He paints differently and plays differently. Unrewarded efforts leave him devasted, especially by the words of others: “You don’t belong here”. Sadden Something Else goes home when there is a knock on the door just before bed. In front of him is a strange creature who is enthusiastic and friendly. Something Else is bewildered to smile or reply. The different animal confuses him as he points: “you’re definitely not MY sort of something else”. He acts like a bully until Something Else suddenly realises what he did. From then on, the two creatures smile and eat their lunches together, and they do not object when something weird-looking appears. They move aside to make a space for him.
“Something Else” is a touching book as it discusses the topics of friendship, belonging and acceptance. It is an easy-to-follow story for young readers. Through the feelings he experiences, the main character develops. Something Else goes from sadness when he tries to fit into the emotion of joy when he forms a beautiful friendship. The busy yet inspiring illustrations give a better understanding of the plot and can serve as a prompt for freeze games. The book can be suitable for reading aloud at home or in school, leading to activities and discussions: Have you ever felt different in PSHE for pupils between 5 and 8?
A feeling-touching tale!
The Stats:
- Title: Something Else
- Author and Illustrator: Kathryn Cave & Chris Riddell
- ISBN: -13: 978-0-14054-907-2
- Publication Date: 1995 Publisher: Puffin Books
- Page Count: 32
- Recommended age: 4-8
Where to Find it:
- Buy on: Amazon
- Find on: Goodreads
