THE BOOK

If Everyone Looked the Same

Main Character: Ethan, an 11-year-old boy who feels insecure about looking different.
Themes: Diversity • Self-love • Anti-bullying • Empathy • Cultural appreciation.

Ethan is bullied at school for his hair, skin tone, and birthmark. Hurt and wishing he could fit in, he dreams of a world where everyone looks the same. While resting in the forest, he meets Mr. Tree, a wise talking tree who teaches him that, like trees, people are meant to be unique. Mr. Tree sends Ethan on a journey to the magical Land of WELTS, where everyone—and even animals and food—looks exactly alike.

At first, Ethan enjoys finally fitting in, but soon he realizes that sameness is dull and lifeless. He meets Harriet, a plus-size girl once bullied for her weight, and Landon, a former bully who learns humility. Together, they discover how emptiness replaces beauty when differences disappear. They long to return home and appreciate individuality again.

When they finally escape WELTS, Ethan wakes up back in the forest, changed. He learns to love his birthmark and appearance, befriends Harriet and Landon at school, and becomes confident and proud of his identity. The story ends with a song celebrating diversity and classroom activities that teach self-esteem, kindness, and cultural awareness.