Different, A Great Thing to Be is a tender and uplifting story about Bella, a young girl who experiences the world in her own special way. Sometimes the world feels too loud or too bright, but with the love of her family and the comfort of her loyal T-Rex companion, Bella learns that her differences are not something to hide-they are what make her shine.
Through gentle storytelling and heartfelt moments, this book reminds children and families that being different is not less, it is wonderful. Perfect for readers ages 4-8, it encourages conversations about acceptance, neurodiversity, and the beauty of individuality. Parents, educators, and caregivers will find it a valuable resource for helping children celebrate their unique voices, build empathy, and discover the strength that comes from embracing who they are.
With warmth and compassion, Different, A Great Thing to Be shows that true friends and family love us not in spite of our differences, but because of them.
Celebrates Neurodiversity & Inclusion
A gentle, affirming story that helps children understand that being different is not something to "fix" - it's something to celebrate.
Empowers Quiet & Sensitive Children
Perfect for kids who are introverted, autistic, or experience the world through a different sensory lens. Bella's journey validates their experiences.
Promotes Empathy & Understanding
Helps all children develop compassion, patience, and awareness toward classmates or siblings who think or feel differently.
Beautifully Written for Ages 4-8
The language is warm, lyrical, and developmentally appropriate for preschool through early elementary readers.
Strengthens Family Bonds
The story emphasizes the power of family love, understanding, and unconditional support - perfect for bedtime or classroom read-alouds.
Valuable Classroom Resource
Ideal for teachers, counselors, and librarians to open conversations about diversity, inclusion, and social-emotional growth.
Features a Multicultural, Loving Family
Reflects the beauty of blended cultural traditions and bilingual expressions (e.g., Mamá, Papá, Momo), offering representation for many children.
Encourages Self-Esteem & Belonging
Readers are reminded that they are wonderful exactly as they are - quiet, bold, or somewhere in between.
Great Gift Book
A heartfelt choice for back-to-school season, birthdays, or holidays - especially for children starting school for the first time.
Backed by Authentic Experience
Written by an author who brings compassion, life experience, and purpose to his storytelling - not just a story, but a mission.
About the Author :
Richard Dell Schwarz is a storyteller with a gift for weaving heart, history, and imagination into every book he writes. With decades of experience in public safety and a lifelong passion for creative writing, he brings a deep sense of empathy and authenticity to his stories. His works range from heartfelt children's books that celebrate love and individuality to sweeping historical fiction and imaginative fantasy adventures.Richard dedicates much of his writing to his children and grandchildren, who inspire him to create stories filled with hope, courage, and belonging. Through his publishing imprint, R&E Publishing, he strives to craft books that entertain, inspire, and open conversations for families and communities.When he is not writing, Richard enjoys exploring the Texas Hill Country, spending time with family, and finding new ways to share the power of storytelling.
