‘Empowering … Hayley Well’s illustrations offer an explosion of colour and shapes to match Frankie’s mood as it shifts from self-consciousness to celebration, resulting in a collaboration that will help both children and their adult readers consider the way in which we use outer armour to reflect our inner selves.’
Sara Keating, The Irish Times
‘From Kat Patrick, author of Doodle Cat and Howl, comes a gorgeous picture book about the nervous joy of expressing yourself through clothing and the strength that comes with family support. Finding the perfect look (especially one with such strong Bowie vibes) for your own party can be incredibly empowering, and The Spectacular Suit also plays with gender in the same, delightful way that children do. Artist Hayley Wells’s picture book debut is warmly illustrated in a limited colour palette, creating a cohesive story world … While this story is a great one for sharing with children from the age of three, when the desire to choose your own outfit really begins to take hold, it could be perfect for those well into primary school, when individuality and identity begin to take on more significance.’
Michael Earp, Books+Publishing
‘This is a vibrant, charming book about how clothes can make you feel special and the importance of wearing the clothes that reflect your identity. The digital illustrations are gorgeous and dynamic and make the story really sing. It’s a delightful book.’
Angela Crocombe, Manager of Readings Kids
‘Immensely charming … A delightful, affirming story about finding your unique look without reducing it to simplistic, black-and-white, or reductive ideas about gender presentation. One of a kind.’
Kirkus Reviews
‘[A] great addition to the growing LGBTQIA+ picture book collection … Specifically give it to kids who see themselves or see others in their lives who may not follow traditional gender roles or may be questioning their own gender identity. Read-alike with Julián is a Mermaid.’
Sarah Bickel, Youth Services Book Review
‘[A] beautiful reflection for kids who push back against gender stereotypes.’
The Tiny Activist
'Primary colours pop in this celebratory picture book about supporting children’s senses of being. Frankie couldn’t be more excited for her garden party, where there will be pickles and jelly beans, and decorations galore. But her mom picked out three dresses for her to wear, and none suit her spectacular expectations. She wants to wear something marvellous: “with lightning bolts and stars and style.” She has little hope that such an outfit exists, but with help from her family, her dream is achieved!'
Foreword Reviews, starred review
‘Bright digital illustrations bring Frankie’s dazzling suit to life in this uplifting picture book, which celebrates being who you want to be.’
Scottish BookTrust
‘A heartwarming and relatable tale about a young person trying to find how they fit in — and explores non-traditional gender roles … It’ll be one you return to at bedtime time and time again, and is a great starting point to talk about identity and self-expression.’
Prudence Wade, Press Association
‘A beautiful story of identity and expression … an essential addition to the primary classroom, an opportunity to open up valuable discussions and to celebrate who we are as individuals.’
Just Imagine
‘A gorgeous glam-rock picture-book celebration of individual style, empathic family, and wearing what feels spectacular.’
Imogen Russell Williams, The Guardian
‘An empowering and reassuring story of a child who (possibly) feels that she doesn’t fit into a traditional gender role, and the ways that her family support her in a positive way.’
BookTrust
‘A bright and vibrant book celebrating individualism and to help start conversations with those who want to explore their gender.’
Juno
‘An opportunity to explore gender and identity issues through the experiences of a child who doesn’t identify with traditional gender roles, drawing on the experiences of both author and illustrator.’
The School Librarian
‘This is a delightful story of a child expressing herself with the help of a supportive family.’
The Buffalo News
‘Perfect for any little girl with a birthday coming up, who longs for party gear that does not involve frilly dresses!’
Books for Keeps
