Lt’s here! Jennifer the Special One by Helena Chung is a sweet, simple, and powerful story that opens up a gentle, honest look into childhood differences through the eyes of a young girl named Sherry. It’s one of those books that sneaks up on you with its warmth—next thing you know, you’re smiling and maybe even a little teary-eyed. The way Chung crafts her characters feels so real, like they could be kids from your child’s class, or someone you remember from back in the day.
At first glance, this might seem like your typical “first day of school” story, but trust me, it’s more than that. Through straightforward language and realistic dialogue, it opens a much-needed conversation around inclusion and understanding—without being preachy or sugar-coated. And if you’re like me and enjoy books that are both heartwarming and honest, you’re gonna want this one on your shelf.
“Jennifer did not want to stay in her seat. She kept walking around the classroom and it made Miss Brady really nervous,” explained Sherry. “Jennifer cried and cried the whole morning, but not me. I didn’t cry the whole time!” said Sherry.”
— Jennifer the Special One , Chapter 1, p. 2
Kids Learn Kindness Naturally
This story is told from Sherry’s point of view, a curious and observant girl who has just met Jennifer—a new classmate who acts a little differently than the rest. While Jennifer’s behavior may seem unusual at first, what makes this book so special is how it captures a child’s raw, unfiltered perspective of what it’s like to encounter difference for the first time.
We follow Sherry as she shares her school day with her mom. It’s not just about Jennifer crying or walking around the class—it’s about Sherry trying to make sense of it all. The dialogue feels super authentic, like something you’d actually overhear between a mom and her kid in the car after school. That’s the magic here: simplicity that cuts deep.
As the story unfolds, you’re not only seeing Jennifer through Sherry’s eyes, but you’re also watching how kids observe, adapt, and learn to empathize without being told to. The story plants seeds of compassion in young readers (and let’s be honest—grown-ups, too). It shows how curiosity can turn into understanding, and how inclusion starts with conversation.
The Woman Behind Jennifer
Author Helena R. Chung resides in California with her husband of 30 years and their four daughters- Elizabeth, Sarah, Hannah, and Lily. She is currently pursuing an Associate of Arts degree in Christian Studies at Regent University, and continuing her lifelong commitment to serving in the church, sponsoring children, and caring for children with disabilities—a mission she embraces with deep compassion and purpose.
This is one of those books that sticks with you. Jennifer the Special One isn’t just a story—it’s a gentle invitation to see kids as they are and love them as they come.
Jennifer the Special One
Grab your copy and explore the story of friendship amidst difference