Title: Blu and Pinky
Author: Tomisin Oyemade
Year of Publication: 2025
Number of Pages: 36
Category: Children’s Book
Tomisin Oyemade’s books are known for their strong moral lessons, and this story is no exception. Her writing prioritises values and personal growth, making her work especially impactful for children navigating everyday social experiences.
One noticeable improvement in this book is the quality of the illustrations. The colours are richer, more lively, and visually appealing, making the book a joy to look at. It is clear that with each new project, the author continues to grow and refine her craft. The book is not only thoughtful but also beautiful.
The story centres on friendship and the importance of appreciating one’s uniqueness, ideas that sound simple but are often difficult to practise, especially for young people. Many children who have struggled to make friends at school will find themselves reflected in Blu, the main character. Like many of us, Blu wants to belong, but repeated rejection makes that desire painful. It is not Blu’s difference that causes his struggle, but his inability to see the value in that difference until someone helps him recognise it.
Readers are likely to empathise deeply with Blu because his experience mirrors moments many of us would rather forget: the longing to be accepted, the disappointment when efforts fail, and the emotional weight of feeling left out. These moments may stir uncomfortable memories, but the story does not dwell in sadness. Instead, it moves towards hope, growth, and valuable lessons. Along the way, readers are also introduced to new vocabulary, thoughtfully explained by the author, saving children the frustration of reaching for a dictionary or searching online.
Another strength of the book is how it highlights resilience. Despite repeated challenges, Blu continues to try, teaching readers the importance of perseverance. While some may view his persistence as desperation, it ultimately becomes a lesson in courage. The story introduces a range of characters, the unkind, the friendly, and the genuinely compassionate mirroring real life. By the end, it is clear that the author hopes readers will choose to be like the kind ones.
Just as in real life, the story reminds us that when we feel closest to giving up, something meaningful often begins to unfold. This message is handled with sensitivity and optimism, making it both comforting and empowering.
Ultimately, the book leaves readers with a simple but powerful takeaway: everyone needs a “Pinky” in their life, someone encouraging, kind, positive, and brave. Most importantly, it reminds us that being different is not a flaw but a strength. May we all find friends like Pinky and learn to appreciate our own uniqueness along the way.
About the reviewer
Titilade Oyemade is a business executive in a leading organisation and holds a degree in Russian Language. She’s the convener of the Hangoutwithtee Ladies Event and the Publisher of Hangoutwithtee magazine. She spends her weekends attending women conferences, events and book readings. She loves to have fun and to help other women have the same in their lives. Email: titi.oyemade@gmail.com Social: @tiipreeofficial
