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.
Set in Ghana. Years ago, when Max was eight, we had a conversation that went something like this:
Max: So Mum what is the solution to the people in Africa who only have one bag of grain a month to eat. One Hen goes a long way towards answering that question.
ages 4 to 12 years
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.
ages newborn to grownup
A brilliant fractured fairytale that introduces us to that famous cow's many attempts at a moon jump before that glorious moment when she actually made it. Funny and tender and full of hope for all of us who struggle.
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 4 to grownup
There’s a flower child, peace loving vibe about this book! A young girl calls a family meeting basically to try to convince her parents of the need for ‘better’ jobs so that they can ‘buy a lot of nice new things’ and the story is about how she becomes convinced of the value of the life they live.
ages 2 - 8 years.
Tucked in and around this story about a young woman in the Great Depression are a myriad of really valuable thoughts and lessons.
A conversation about books + kids. A website resource and book reviews for educators, parents, grandparents. The main focus is emotional resilience.
