So why am I conflicted about the book?
I wouldn't hesitate to have it in my home for my children (if they were still children); but then, I would moderate the book's underlying current of promoting elements of today's social mores that I believe are inappropriate. (But that is for discussion at a different time.)
I don't think children should be part of mass gatherings - no matter what the adults are promoting. This is especially true in today's climate when a mass gathering can easily become violent. I also don't think children should be out going door to door or standing on street corners handing out promotional information sheets.
I think children should be at home playing. I think that "play is the work of children." I think their time should be spent learning and exercising.
Now that doesn't say their very existence is not revolutionary because I agree with the book's author that a child changes things and they are uniquely revolutionary.
I can endorse this book with the understanding that there is good in it but there are also elements* that will take care in handling.
About the book: A wonderful new Children’s Book by Author Cindy Wang Brandt, Kid Activists, and activities to encourage empathy and creativity in kids.
Parenting expert and Author Cindy Wang Brandt has written a beautiful children’s book - vibrantly illustrated by Artist Lynnor Bontigao. You Are Revolutionary features a diverse group of children taking up a call to action and using their individual gifts to change the world.
“You Are Revolutionary is beautifully written and is accompanied by such thoughtful and engaging illustrations. This book is such a powerful way of igniting the path to self-empowerment for our youngest leaders and change makers.” — Nora Mata, New York Times bestselling illustrator of I Promise by Lebron James
You Are Revolutionary is an inspiring picture book that speaks to every child who sees injustice in the world, revealing they have everything they need inside themselves to make big, transformative change - just as they are. Every kid is a revolutionary! Kids who are loud, kids who are quiet, kids who make art, kids who are good at math, kids with lots of energy, kids who are good listeners - all kids have what it takes to make a difference.
“In the lyrical style of You Are So Wonderful (Beaming Books), Cindy Wang Brandt’s You Are Revolutionary reminds children of their inherent place and that they are not too young to be revolutionaries.” — The Reverend Jacqueline J. Lewis, Ph.D., Senior Minister of Middle Collegiate Church in New York City
*Near end of book... child's T-shirt says "I take Naps and I'm WOKE." - Group of shouting, fists in air children with signs.... "Housing is a human right," "Homes for All!", "End Evictions," "Homes Not Jails," "Homelessness is not a crime."
I bought my neighbor dinner this evening.
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