WTBA is a collection of and conversation about powerful books that strengthen, elevate, inspire and help to grow powerful, resilient kids. We're a book oriented guide for parents, grandparents, educators, aunts, uncles and anyone involved in nurturing children and caring for friends.
ages about 8 to grownup
The dreadful realities of history include events and times like the Cultural Revolution in China. Times that test the limits of our imaginations and our resolve. The Red Piano is a beautifully told story that takes us into the life of a young girl living through the Cultural Revolution.
One of the great things about picture books is their ability to help us feel the history as well as know the history, but they can do it in a way that leaves us with a sense of beauty and hope. Half Spoon of Rice does this brilliantly.
ages 10 years and up
Set in France. This is a wonderfully crafted story that is full of love, joy and humour, just a little tension, and a triumphant ending. A charming French mouse does all he can to care for his family and to help the hands that feed him - even when he is met with scorn.
ages 1 to 9 years
ages 2 to 8 years
Home as any place, as a reflection of who we are, as something that binds us to our community, as something unique and special—all of this is reflected in Ellis’ charming illustrations and simple words. The beauty of one's home as a place to be nurtured and to grow is poignantly on show throughout.
all ages, newborn to grownup
This book is a collection of photos from National Geographic that show people collecting and drinking water. Every photo is respectful of both the subjects and of water generally. There are no photos of water being wasted or even used recreationally. Wonderful for children, but adults will also enjoy very much enjoy it.
After World War II – as indeed after every war – there was a period of terrible poverty in the directly affected areas. And a terrible lack of consumer goods. In this story, a young girl, Anna, is in need of a new coat, in post-war Europe!
ages 2 to 8 years
This is a brilliantly informative and fun book. It’s all about scale. Scale is tricky to understand for young children, but numbers can get so big that it becomes almost impossible to get a sense of scale even for older children, teens and adults. That's where this book comes in.
ages 4 years to grownup
A conversation about books + kids. A website resource and book reviews for educators, parents, grandparents. The main focus is emotional resilience.
