The Tall, the Small, And the Most Important of All by Kyle William Norton

Review by Angie Carlson

This debut book by Kyle William Norton is a beautiful breath of fresh air about a universal emotion we all face — feeling a little different sometimes.  

The Small, the Tall, and the Most Important of All illuminates the common-yet-confusing childhood experience of discovering one's own uniqueness. Through its melodic, rhyming prose and vibrant, imaginative illustrations, the story takes readers on an enlightening adventure to understanding one’s place in a big world.

The book begins in a second-person narrative, addressing readers directly, before transitioning to a first-person account as Kyle (the main character) notices a key difference between himself and other kids at school. The author’s nurturing touch immediately establishes rapport with readers, fostering a sense of understanding before delving into the important lessons Kyle learns along his journey to self-love.

Presented with real-world examples of shooting hoops, running a race, and playing at recess, the story takes us on a day-in-the-life of someone trying to fit in, while acknowledging that insecurity and loneliness are normal things we all face.

The Small, the Tall, and the Most Important of All transcends boundaries of gender, race, religion, and personal interests, resonating with all types of readers, asserting that appreciating our individuality is more influential to our happiness than expectations of others. In a society that believes boys should be tall, strong, and good at sports and girls should be polite and pretty, this book speaks on behalf of every child reading it—mindset is more powerful than societal pressure.

Kyle's transformative epiphany occurs when he decides to ponder his situation while looking through a kaleidoscope lens, ultimately seeing the world around him in a brand-new, colorful light.  Through positive affirmation, creative visualization, and honest self-reflection, Kyle realizes that his self-worth can’t be measured by anyone or anything other than his own heartfelt determination of what's important.

The book concludes with a powerful call to action for all kids to be inclusive and equitable and celebrate the diversity of themselves and others. We all have the power to view the world through our own unique lens and learn to appreciate what makes us unique and special.

Thanks to The Small, the Tall, and the Most Important of All, the future looks bright for a generation of kids who are shown, through the author's example, that shifting one's mindset to embrace and celebrate our strengths and differences leads to a more inclusive, happier world.

The hardcover is now available for pre-order. Click here to order yours today! (paperback and ebook available on Amazon)