I Am Everything in Between is a gentle and positive story suited to primary students about celebrating who you are. Stories such as this connect us to ourselves, our families, and our communities in English Language Arts. Author and illustrator Sydney Sunderland uses simple language, vocabulary, and illustrations to share the important message that a person doesn't have to be defined by their gender or how they look to others. This story supports learning in the primary Social Studies curriculum about how healthy communities recognize and respect the diversity of individuals. The important message in this story helps to break down barriers and stereotypes that can be harmful to one's physical, mental, and emotional health. Learning about ourselves and others in this way helps us develop a positive attitude and caring behaviours, which helps us build healthy relationships to support learning in Physical and Health Education.

Images: Colour illustrations
Bibliography: No
Index: No

Source: Books BC - BC Books for Schools

Eighteen-year-old Sydney Sunderland grew up in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, BC. She loves to spend time outside with her friends and family doing just about anything. Some of her passions include soccer, guitar, and art. Throughout her life, Sydney has had many different appearances. She has expressed herself through short hair, fun colourful hair, long curly hair, and many other styles. Right now, she has short hair, but who knows what it will look next year! Sydney believes, with all her heart and soul, in being your true self. Author available for school and other venue readings and presentations.

Sydney Sunderland's profile page

"A simple but powerful message. In a world that often constructs narrow boxes for gender roles and identity, I Am Everything in Between shows kids that it's okay feel and be who they are. I wish there was a book like this when I was a kid." LS Stone, author What's in it for ME?

Loved this book! The illustrations are very well done and the book is written in a very accessible way for children. This book teaches important principles about gender identity and the value of being your authentic self. Highly recommended! Tatiana Mueller, Thompson River University

I Am Everything in Between sends a great message to kids about exploring their self-expression and breaking out of traditional gender norms. It aligns perfectly with the elementary school curriculum. I Am Everything in Between is an exceptional book on gender identity to read to a young child. Chantal Hughes, author in Breaking Boundaries- LGBTQ2 Writers Coming Out and Into Canada

"This book is a perfect fit for discussions with my Grade 2 class about gender identity. It helped my students understand that expressing how they feel about their gender is OK and that they belonged. The artwork is bright and playful. I highly recommend this book." Karen Williams, teacher.

Comox Valley teen publishes children's book on gender identity. I am Everything In Between sends a positive message to children about just being themselves. Eighteen year old author, Sidney Sunderland, says there is a personal angle to the book.
"There is sort of a personal connection to it; when I was growing up, I didn't necessarily know what gender identity was, but I definitely did present myself in ways that were different than how a typical little girl would dress and things," she said. "I sometimes got negative comments and negative reactions from that, and that definitely affected me when I was younger, so I am hoping that the message can get out to any kids who might be feeling that way, because I know I would have really appreciated something like that."Black Press Media publications: BC and Alberta newspaper network

I AM EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN has made the list of the Canadian School Libraries Journal issue sping 2023 vol. 8 No. 2, "11 Books to Add to Your Classroom If You're Infuriated by Book Bans," https://journal.canadianschoollibraries.ca/11-books-to-add-to-your-classroom-if-youre-infuriated-by-book-bans-canadian-indie-publisher-edition/

CBC Kids is featuring I AM EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN for a Book Club segment that is airing on CBC on March 14, 2024 at 7:28am. You can find the segment on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Y0jlSaYEZQ