I Color Myself Different

About this book

When Colin Kaepernick was five years old, he was given a simple school assignment: draw a picture of yourself and your family. What young Colin does next with his brown crayon changes his whole world and worldview, providing a valuable lesson on embracing and celebrating his Black identity through the power of radical self-love and knowing your inherent worth.

I Color Myself Different is a joyful ode to Black and Brown lives based on real events in young Colin's life that is perfect for every reader's bookshelf. It's a story of self-discovery, staying true to one's self, and advocating for change... even when you're very little!

Reviews

Amazon Best Book of 2022 (ages 3-5)

Carter G. Woodson Honor Award 2023

New York Times Bestseller

* "This affirming autobiographical look at race and belonging for young readers is a recommended first purchase for public and elementary school libraries. Ideal for read-alouds and starting discussions on family, race, and identity." - School Library Journal, starred review

"Realistic renditions coupled with a simple text capture Colin Kaepernick's poignant message of individuality." - Story Monsters

"I Color Myself Different exemplifies Colin Kaepernick's continuous efforts to leave this world better than he found it, for all people. He reminds us that to be different is to be cool. To be different is to be special. To be different is to find value in yourself, just the way you are." - Malcolm Mitchell, author of My Very Favorite Book in the Whole Wide World and Super Bowl champ