#BOOKREVIEW28
CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOK REVIEW AS A WRITER AND A READER
Title: And Tango Makes Three
Author: Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell
Illustrator: Henry Cole
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Target Reader: 3 years and above
This book is a real surprise for readers because it tells the true story of two same-sex penguins who wanted to have a baby. While the title is catchy, what stands out most is the courage of the authors, who chose to write about same-sex parenting more than two decades ago, at a time when such relationships were widely frowned upon.
What makes And Tango Makes Three fascinating is the way it presents a complex and sensitive subject through a simple, gentle narrative. Based on a real-life story, the book addresses the idea of non-traditional families in a way that is accessible to children. Although it is one of the most banned and challenged books, it has also become a valuable tool for teachers to encourage discussions about diversity and different forms of parenting.
I initially picked up the book because of its title and soon discovered that its message was both sweet and meaningful. While researching further, I learned several interesting facts about the book and its impact over the years.
The story is based on two male penguins, Roy and Silo, who lived at the Central Park Zoo in New York. Like other penguin couples, they built a nest, slept together, and took turns caring for it, unaware of what was missing. Their desire to become parents is eventually fulfilled when a zookeeper places an egg in their nest. The egg hatches into a baby penguin named Tango, reminding readers that love, care, and family can take many forms.
Even though this book was published 25 years ago, same-sex relationships are still not accepted in many parts of the world. This makes the book just as relevant today as it was when it was first released.
Every book reflects an author’s life, and this is true for Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell. Richardson’s background as a psychiatrist and Parnell’s experience as a playwright shape the story’s sensitive and accessible narrative. By presenting same-sex parenting in language children can easily understand, the authors reinforce a powerful message that families are built on love, and nothing else matters.
I am an author, teacher, and holistic wellness coach with a deep passion for children’s growth and self-worth. Reviewing children’s books inspired me to write my own picture book, Stand Up for Yourself: Brando Tells Dory.
The story reflects my belief that every child deserves acceptance—not only from others but also from within. Through Dory’s journey of finding her voice and Brando’s support, young readers learn that standing up for themselves and asking for help are powerful acts of self-respect.
At its heart, my work reminds children—and adults alike—that every voice matters, and every child has the right to say, “I matter.”
Click here to get a copy for your child
About A New You:
We all deserve to have everything in our life exactly the way we want it.The first step begins with believing that every moment is bringing an opportunity to be a new you. As a founder, I provide tools to elevate all dimensions of your life and I teach you the art of writing to reach to your true potential.
Vandana Sehgal | Founder – A New You
