The Spectacular Suit

‘From Kat Patrick, author of Doodle Cat and Howl, comes a gorgeous picture book about the nervous joy of expressing yourself through clothing and the strength that comes with family support. Finding the perfect look (especially one with such strong Bowie vibes) for your own party can be incredibly empowering, and The Spectacular Suit also plays with gender in the same, delightful way that children do. Artist Hayley Wells’s picture book debut is warmly illustrated in a limited colour palette, creating a cohesive story world … While this story is a great one for sharing with children from the age of three, when the desire to choose your own outfit really begins to take hold, it could be perfect for those well into primary school, when individuality and identity begin to take on more significance.’
—Michael Earp , Books + Publishing

‘This is a vibrant, charming book about how clothes can make you feel special and the importance of wearing the clothes that reflect your identity. The digital illustrations are gorgeous and dynamic and make the story really sing. It’s a delightful book.’
—Angela Crocombe, Manager of Readings Kids

‘Immensely charming … A delightful, affirming story about finding your unique look without reducing it to simplistic, black-and-white, or reductive ideas about gender presentation. One of a kind.’
—Kirkus Reviews

‘Empowering … will help both children and their adult readers consider the way in which we use outer armour to reflect our inner selves.’
—Sara Keating, The Irish Times