Writer/illustrator Mélanie Watt’s debut picture book began as a colour theory project undertaken while studying graphic design. Leon the Chameleon is not only a lesson on the interaction of colour but a celebration of being different.

Leon is a chameleon with a problem. Instead of blending into the background he turns the exact opposite colour to his immediate environment. Embarrassed by his vibrancy, he is often lonely and cannot join in games of “camouflage and seek.” When the other young chameleons go exploring, Leon follows curiously, trying to stay out of sight. However, soon they are lost on a vast monochromatic desert, and the frightened chameleons are glad when a bright blue Leon reveals himself on the orange sands. Anxious parents set out to find their lost offspring, who are soon discovered, thanks to Leon, who’s glowing like a beacon out on the desert. For the first time Leon is proud of his unique character, having realized the value of being different.

Watt’s use of primary colours and bold black outlines makes this a good choice for storytimes, and this title could accompany Alan Baker’s White Rabbit’s Colour Book or Ellen Stoll Walsh’s Mouse Paint. Children will enjoy spotting the hidden chameleons and recognizing contrasting colours by identifying Leon. The use of double-paged spreads heightens the drama and visual impact of Leon’s adventure, and reinforces the important lesson of understanding those who are different. Although the language is somewhat flat and at times clichéd (“safe and sound,” “the other little chameleons,” and “a day full of adventure”), Leon is drawn with enough expression to engage interest. For readers who want to learn more about Leon’s extraordinary talent, an explanatory note about the colour wheel is included on the final page.