The Most Important Thing
By Antonella Abbatiello
$17.99
44 pages • Paper Over Board • Ages 3–6 • 9.45” x 9.45" • ISBN: 978-1636550220
Translated by Angus Yuen-Killick
The animals of the forest have assembled to discuss what is the most important thing: to have a trunk like an elephant, quills like a porcupine, or a long neck like a giraffe? Naturally, every animal is convinced that its particular trait is the most important one and that everyone should have it. But when the double pages open to show all the animals with the quills of a porcupine, the long neck of a giraffe, or the trunk or the elephant, everyone must agree that the true importance lies precisely in their collective 'diversity’. It is that which makes them all unique and essential to life of the forest.
The Most Important Thing received a UNESCO honorable mention for peace and collaboration. An important message of diversity and inclusion delivered in the form of a charming modern fable.
“There are numerous applications for this story in classrooms and story times, as its large fold-out pages of colorful illustrations are ideal for group sharing and are sure to elicit more than a few laughs. Each spread also features vocabulary-building text while reinforcing the theme that everyone has their own special, invaluable qualities.”
– School Library Journal
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“Many endearing creatures show us all the things things that set us apart & make us unique.”
– Stylish Modern Motherhood
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“Antonella Abbatiello’s darling “The Most Important Thing” will have little ones laughing and remembering that embracing our uniqueness is the most important thing.”
– Red Poppy Reading
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“Reminds us all to appreciate what makes each of us special.”
– Sincerely Stacie
Take a look inside and see how the pages flip to reveal each spread.
Antonella Abbatiello
Antonella Abbatiello is an Italian illustrator and graduate of the Rome Academy of Fine Arts. She has illustrated more than ninety children’s books, many of which she has written and illustrated herself. Her work has been published by all the major Italian publishing houses and her books have been translated and published in over 20 countries around the world. She has also collaborated on a number of cartoon films, including three by children’s author/illustrator Leo Lionni. Born in Scandicci (Florence), she lives and works in Rome. Visit her at https://www.antonellaabbatiello.it/