Does it matter that little Tony is black?

dbulkley · Post by **dbulkley** » 26 Jul 2018, 20:26

Diversity is important in all stories. I understand how kids could label stereotypes to certain races/cultures, but it is necessary for characters to be different. This is a way for parents/teachers to make their kids more knowledgable on the importance of treating everyone equally.

Odeyemi sumbo · Post by **Odeyemi sumbo** » 26 Jul 2018, 21:02

Superheroes belong to either white or black as long as they used it in a better and encouraging way.But don't forget superheroes are human being that is what matters.

Sunnyroyish · Post by **Sunnyroyish** » 27 Jul 2018, 00:19

The colour of skin doesn't define the nature of a human being. In this case, Toni is a kid superhero with black complexion. I don't think being white or black influences the Karma that he does in his life.

Dbranch21 · Post by **Dbranch21** » 27 Jul 2018, 11:45

we live in a diverse world with people of many colors and cultures it's good to see books, especially books for children that show the diversity of the world we live in.

Miercoles · Post by **Miercoles** » 27 Jul 2018, 15:05

Recently I saw a news item where a black child and a white child from two different families decided they were twins and do everything together. Their mothers are now good friends. Children often do not see colour. Parents who will read Toni's story to them have an opportunity to teach them the values espoused in the book. They can also be creative and encourage them to be superheroes in other areas of their lives beyond doing their chores.

ashpres12 · Post by **ashpres12** » 28 Jul 2018, 01:07

bookowlie wrote: ↑01 Jul 2018, 08:16 Christinaro - Interesting question! I didn't view it as black kids can only do ordinary things while the superpowers belong to the white kids. For me, the story showed that important people (superheroes) still do ordinary activities and chores like everyone else.

When little ones see that superheros have to do "normal" people stuff like chores, it may inspire them to do those things as well. This story is a great learning opportunity for children and adults alike. The messages contained within are important, especially in today's society.

Nikki Dewing · Post by **Nikki Dewing** » 28 Jul 2018, 01:37

I don't think that color is going to be an issue to a child. Among my grand-daughter's friends are kids from many different races and nationalities. They treat one another all the same. There is in any case more to this story than the race of the little boy. I actually like that this superhero doesn't have all of the traditional super powers. It makes it more real.

kelvinmwaniki17 · Post by **kelvinmwaniki17** » 28 Jul 2018, 02:14

I don't think that the color of one's skin has any bearing on the nature of a human being. I think there is more to this story than the color of one's skin.

kwame1977 · Post by **kwame1977** » 28 Jul 2018, 04:16

I started reading this book few days ago and I'm very pleased to know the activities of such brilliant kid. So far I have not seen any display of the supernatural. I hope to encounter one in this long journey I'm undertaking.

Iviss · Post by **Iviss** » 28 Jul 2018, 05:10

I don't think that the color of one's skin has any importance to a child. Children should learn to appreciate every human being, regardless of race, color or religion. So maybe it's a good idea that little Tony is dark-skinned.

MishM1 · Post by **MishM1** » 28 Jul 2018, 10:25

This is a very interesting perspective. However, my initial reaction was "Wow! A black superhero! And wow, here is an image of a young black boy being helpful to people in small ways that make a big difference to those on the receiving end of his actions."

I think the things that are considered "ordinary" to adults are huge accomplishments for children. They feel like they have conquered the world when they do something that their parents celebrate, even if its just sweeping the floor or dusting or drawing a picture, especially if they do it genuinely well. They like to know that they have helped. In essence, that's what a superhero does, he or she helps when and where they can. This book shows children that they can be the definition of a superhero by doing just that.

Look at the book through the eyes of the 0-4 year old that it is intended for children don't see colour.

Jude Austin · Post by **Jude Austin** » 28 Jul 2018, 11:27

It didn't make any difference to me. I don't think the author made him black because of any desire to prove a point (things like that are pretty easy to spot, particularly in children's books!) It wouldn't occur to me that the main character's skin color had any bearing on anything, any more than hair or eye color

abudoh · Post by **abudoh** » 28 Jul 2018, 14:22

in the world of freedom and liberty, peace and harmony; color has no specific role to play especially when equality and fair justice are the societal watch words.

Post by **Waragu Samuel** » 28 Jul 2018, 22:58

Well, this is a proof that there are some aspects of racism in the book. Black people (especially kids) should not be discriminated. They and their lives matter.

taffylee81 · Post by **taffylee81** » 29 Jul 2018, 03:01

I don’t think it matters what the colour of Toni’s skin is. I think instead of referring to Toni as a little black kid, why not just refer to all the kids as little kids? I think too much emphasis is placed on skin colour today, especially black and white.