By: Jennifer Nestor

Illustrated by: Victoria Mikki

I really enjoyed this book. As a child—and even now—there have been times when I’ve felt unsure of myself, wondering if others might see me as different or strange. Putting yourself out there can be incredibly difficult, especially when you fear not being accepted.

In the story, Jane experiences these same feelings. She’s nervous about going to school, even though her mother reassures her that everything will be fine. Jane is shy but full of curiosity, always brimming with questions. She has curly hair and wears bright red glasses.

On the school bus, an irritating kid grabs the seat she had hoped for, so she finds another and rests her head, slipping into a vivid daydream. Suddenly, she’s in a jungle—but not just any jungle. This one is filled with animals that defy the ordinary: a spotted ape, a tiger with a mohawk. As Jane explores this fantastical place, she begins to understand the true meaning of individuality.

Each unique animal she encounters helps her realize that her own quirks are nothing to be ashamed of. Her journey leads her to the Waterfall of Strength, a magical place where animals swim to calm their worries and discover hidden confidence. There, she learns an important truth: when people treat us poorly, it often reflects their own struggles—not something wrong with us.

Jane awakens from her dream just as the school bus arrives. But something has changed. She steps off the bus feeling strong, confident, and ready—just like the friends she met in the jungle. By the end, she sees that our differences are what make us truly special.

The illustrations in this book are stunning, and the story is a beautiful reminder that we all belong—quirks, uniqueness, and all.