Little Ellen is seven years old, and trying to figure out “What truly makes me me?” Is it her “cool dance moves”? Her funny thoughts? No, she concludes, what makes her her is what’s in her heart, filled with colors because of “all that I do for everyone else.” She then shares some of the things she’s done to help others—making them laugh when they were crying, doing kind things, and speaking up.
In keeping with author Ellen DeGeneres’ on-screen personality, there’s also much silliness here as we read, “My heart’s got ladybugs, scooters, and fireflies inside. There’s a sweet little sloth and a whole lot of pride.” The word “pride” is written in rainbow colors (and Little Ellen’s rainbow shirt also offers another nod to her queer identity).
At the end, she advises readers to hold tight to what they love, and reminds them, “You are all that you are, all you can do. Wow. So spectacular. I’m so glad that you’re you.”
There is a positive message here about doing things for others, but Little Ellen’s statement that what makes her herself is “my big, generous heart that no one can see” and her discussion of all she does for others feel a little like she’s trying too hard to convince people. (After 2020 allegations that her show created a toxic workplace environment, she just might feel the need to press this point.) Fans of the star and of the preschool show this book is based on may enjoy this story, but others may wish to pass.
