HOW TO CHANGE THE WORLD IN 12 EASY STEPS

Everyone has the power to change the world, even children.

All they need to do, encourages Tierney, is start small and follow 12 easy steps. Some are simple. They can give their parents a hug, clean their room, or invite someone sitting alone to join them. Other steps are more nuanced or challenging: accepting people for who they are, never giving up on their dreams, and standing up to a bully without becoming a bully. Letourneau draws racially diverse children thoughtfully engaging with the world. Her bright, charming illustrations amplify each step, one double-page spread for each. While the simple text speaks directly to readers, the illustrations extend it, showing readers through facial expressions and actions how to follow the steps. There are even occasional instances of speech or thought bubbles, showing specific examples of how children can embody the gesture suggested. The final step is a beautiful explication of forgiveness: “Forgiveness doesn’t mean what they did was okay….Forgiveness means that you decide you don’t want to be angry, and when the anger is gone, there is more space for happiness.” It and the entire book were inspired by Eva Kor, a Holocaust survivor, who inspired many with her capacity to forgive the people who caused her so much loss and pain. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A touching and beautiful guide to consideration and kindness.