By Michele Ebersole and Avis Masuda, University of Hawaii at Hilo
A proverb or a noteworthy saying is often used to teach important lessons and can help children connect to human experiences in simple, yet profound, ways. This WOW Dozen is centered around the Japanese proverb, “Fall down seven times, get up eight,” another way to convey the message “never give up.” This theme of hard work, perseverance or persistence is reflected through different means — whether overcoming small challenges, dealing with human relationships, standing up for oneself to make a significant change in laws to fight for the rights of others, inventing something new that builds confidence or creating an innovation that makes a big impact in the world. This list introduces biographies of meaningful people who overcame big challenges as well as fictional stories that are fun and whimsical. Reading these books aloud may inspire children to see themselves as capable and resilient beings in the world. Continue reading
In Drawn Together, written by Min Lê with illustrations by Dan Santat, a young boy is dropped off to visit his grandpa. The boy looks reluctant. The Grandpa greets him with joy. The Grandpa speaks Thai, the boy, English. The Grandpa prepares an Asian dish for himself and a hot dog for his grandson. They try to communicate but are unable to cross their language divide. That awkward silence is broken when the boy brings out his drawing pen and his markers. The Grandpa is inspired to bring out his own art supplies, a sketch book, ink and pen. Together they create a new story. The boy says, “Right when I gave up on talking, my grandfather surprised me by revealing a world beyond words. And in a FLASH–we see each other for the first time. All the things we could never say come pouring out.” Through their collaboration in drawing scenes together they build “a new world that even words can’t describe.” 