Ganesha has felt like an outsider throughout their life. Bullied at school for being fat, they don’t like how they look or who they are. Meeting a dazzling new friend who is fully and unapologetically himself changes his life!

In this empowering and affirming tale, Ganesha learns that being different, while often difficult, is not something to change or correct. In a world that encourages and enforces fitting in versus standing out, there is an inherent freedom in brave and authentic self-expression. Difference, Ganesha realizes, is actually a superpower! Whether this difference is of body size, gender identity/expression, disability, skin color, or any other form of human diversity, it is to be cherished and celebrated. Ganesha experiences the transformative power of self-acceptance as they learn that they matter, belong, and are truly gorgeous - exactly as they already are!

Difference is beautiful. Be beautifully different!

About the author: Neil Panchmatia (he/they) is a social-justice-oriented therapist based in Portland, Oregon. His work and activism centers on the tenets of equity and inclusion in the pursuit of human rights. Neil is also a queer immigrant of color, a doting dachshund dad, and a lifelong student. Born and in Kenya, Neil is of East Indian descent, and his writing carries the essence of his own lifelong journey of learning to know, love, and express oneself fully and without apology. For more information and resources, visit neilpanchmatia.com