In the case of human beings, appearance can become an issue of personal identity: how do we know that a person is the same person when many of their characteristics change over time? Some philosophers think that personal identity can be judged by a person having the same characteristics over time, or the changes being so gradual and continuous that they seem the same. In the book, the emphasis is on the chameleon’s visual appearance, and specifically its inability to remain one color as all the other animals do. In philosophy, the term “identity” usually refers to some element or characteristic that makes an entity identifiable as distinct from others. This raises issues of conformity, identity, and personal appearance. On the chameleon’s quest to find a way to stop changing color, he labels himself as different from the other animals and acts as if this difference is socially unacceptable, thus isolating himself until he can solve his supposed problem. Leo Lionni’s story about the color-changing chameleon prompts questions related to the philosophical issues of identity, change, friendship, and well-being. Read aloud video Guidelines for Philosophical Discussion The two chameleons set off on a new life of adventure. Finally, he finds another chameleon who also changes color and suggests that they travel together. This works until the seasons start to change, and the leaf turns to yellow and then to red. Because he wants to have a color of his own so badly, he finds the greenest leaf and decides to stay there forever. He is very sad because he cannot move around without changing color.

This small board book edition of the classic tale of self-acceptance and friendship will be a favorite for toddlers and parents alike.Questions for Philosophical Discussion » Summary A Color of His Own follows a chameleon exploring the issues of personal identity, conformity, and the value of friendship.Ī little chameleon is distressed that he doesn’t have a color of his own like other animals. Leo Lionni, children's book creator extraordinaire, author of such beloved picture books as Frederick, Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse, Swimmy, and Inch by Inch, all Caldecott Honor winners, introduces color concepts in an exquisite and touching story. It isn't until he befriends another older, wiser chameleon that our hero begins to find inner peace, even as his outer surface is transformed again and again. He thinks, 'If I remain on a leaf, I shall be green forever, and so I too will have a color of my own.' Of course, what he doesn't take into account is the changes wrought by autumn, and soon the green chameleon is yellow, then red, and then tumbled to the ground for the long black winter night. In the heather they are purple.' One chameleon is not pleased with his changeable appearance.

'Parrots are green, elephants are gray, pigs are pink.' But chameleons change color wherever they go.

A color of his own by leo lionni