King Burue Changes the Rules, is a children’s story with an adult dilemma told so simply through the keen interpretation of an 8 year-old child. The theme is one of diversity that goes a step further with a lesson about embracing who you are while accepting others in the same way. It is not uncommon and, yet, still a challenge, leading children to believe they have to fit a “norm” designated by invisible rules, instead of celebrating individuality. The delicate boundaries of diversity are revealed using animals and told in a way that is so rich in context. The illustrator, Amene Beheshti, adds another unique dimension that flourishes with the imagination of the writer and truly makes it a modern day allegory, with a lesson for the parent as well.

Natalija Tatjana Bajlo, the author, is a young gifted child who has a very mature perspective with untainted notions. Her fable exemplifies the mantra of acceptance accompanied by the rules of trust, kindness, selflessness and the need to be true to your heart. A goose, who defies his own kingdom’s rule when he marries the lovely Japanese parrot, Kimiko, attempts to disguise her as one of his own kind by covering up her unique beauty. The plan falls apart and the King sets off on a journey to the find a solution. He unexpectedly discovers that all he once believed to be right, based on a rule made up a long, long time ago, was actually quite wrong. When King Burue witnesses how his friends had found solace in the companionship of unlikely mates, it leads him to challenge the tradition of many generations when he proposes to change the rules.

Stories that fortify kindness and teach children to examine without bias will be an invaluable resource for social development. A vehicle for parents to teach their children that it doesn’t matter what we look like, but instead, what defines us is how we treat others and contribute as a person. This raises the consciousness of self-awareness as it relates to how we affect others. Building self-esteem while breaking down the barriers between people lessens the motive of hate and, hopefully, will reduce bullying as these children grow up being intrigued by their differences rather than fearing them. Making changes for tomorrow begins early in life.

King Burue Changes the Rules may very well be the next modern day classic in children’s literature. A tale that will be told for years to come with artwork that provokes curiosity and intellect.