Review: Old to Joy

Posted on November 7, 2023 by lindseymcd

Written and illustrated by Anita Crawford Clark

Gnome Road Publishing 2023 (Ages 4-8)

I believe this is a wonderful first. The publisher’s description includes: “An intergenerational story that is certain to encourage a healthy-aging mindset among readers of all ages.” Kudos to Gnome Road Books! Read more about what we learn about aging from picture books. Lindsey

Guest post by Marsha Weiner

In Old to Joy, writer and illustrator Anita Crawford Clark has created a story that conveys how rich, sensory experiences punctuate childhood, imprint memories, and can yield profound insight, connection and meaning.

This book shares how “old” is a positive attribute.

In this atmospheric story, young Joy visits her Grandmama in an old house, on an old street, with old trees and all kinds of old things.

Joy joins Grandmama in a series of old-time experiences:

shelling black-eyed peas by hand instead of opening a can, and washing dishes in a sink of warm, sudsy water instead of using a machine.

art by Anita Crawford Clark

She exclaims “Whoa”, as she looks up and through the leafy branches unique to the majesty of very tall, old trees.

Art by Anita Crawford Clark

 

 

Grandmama receives a package from a dear childhood friend.

Learning that Grandmama had a childhood of her own prompts an insight that frequently stuns children.

“You were a little girl like me?” Joy blurts out. “So one day I’ll be old, too?”

It’s a valuable insight for healthy aging.

 

 

 

The package contains “the biggest hat ever” for Grandmama’s collection—eliciting another “Whoa” from a delighted Joy. She dances and poses with the variety of hats: big hats, Sunday morning hats, small hats, and hats for sad times.

Art by Anita Crawford Clark

Grandmama places one on Joy’s head. “This hat belonged to my mother. Now it belongs to her great-granddaughter.”

Joy is thrilled as she realizes the many ways old things and old ways bring joy. She experiences a deep connection and meaning.

Art by Anita Crawford Clark

Age Positive activities:

Help children learn about aging, to recognize age stereotypes and to anticipate late life with joy.

Reflect • Share • Confirm • Affirm

Continuity, memory, identity and community give meaning to a life, and old things have the power to convey that meaning. Family heirlooms and personal mementos are not artifacts in museums. They help us share stories of love, loss, joy, strength and connection.

Children welcome feelings connected to their elders—the stories of old ways and to old things.

Given the acuity of a child’s sensory experiences, handling old things and experiencing those old ways consecrates a connection with the past. The hat Grandmama placed on Joy’s head embodied such a connection.

Consider giving a special family item to a young family member

—something that can’t be broken or lost. A button, a scarf, a glove… a hat.

Along with the stories and the sensory experience of old items, you’ll be giving the child a piece of their heritage. This contributes to resilience and self-respect. And you’ll imbue them with a stunning insight—they, too, may one day be fortunate to grow old.

*A review copy of this book was provided by                                                                                        the publisher at our request.

Find more Age Positive picture books here.

                                          Please note:

—A is for Aging has a new newsletter that goes out 4-5x/year with links to blog posts & Age Positive resources. Sign up at top right of this page.

Recommended new book: There was an old woman: reflections on these strange, surprising, shining years.” by Andrea Carlisle. “Andrea’s glorious wry wit and brilliant wisdom have always lit up her readers and listeners so thoroughly that we stand in line waiting for her new book with greatest joy and gusto…” author Naomi Shibab Nye.

Posted in Book Reviews for Ages 3-6, Book Reviews for Ages 6-9, guest posts | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Ageism Awareness Day & Children’s Books

Posted on October 13, 2023 by lindseymcd

Hello friends, I’m so pleased to tell you about a recent collaboration with my local public library to raise awareness about both ageism and Age Positive picture books.

With Ageism Awareness Day looming on October 7, 2023 I reached out to my community library’s manager about a potential display of literature and picture books at the library. Fortunately she was interested, and we quickly agreed on sharing the information in a brief poster, along with a flyer/handout to give out.

She asked me to put picture books on hold using my library card. That way she was able to display some books, and have others ready for interested parents to check out.

See the American Society on Aging website for more information on their efforts around Ageism Awareness Day.

This website and “A is for Aging” blog are resources for Age Positive picture books minus age stereotypes. (See the “picture books” tab at www.Lindseymcdivitt.com or www.A-is-for-Aging.com )

This display was a small start (something I’ve pondered before and not acted on), but I’m hoping others will partner with their public and school librarians on an ageism awareness display. Take a peek below at the information and resources we shared for Ageism Awareness Day.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions!

 

Our POSTER shared with the picture book display, text below:

Ageism Awareness Day is an opportunity to draw attention to the existence & impact of ageism in our society and reframe aging.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared ageism a threat to global health. The harmful effects of ageism begin early in childhood.

Ageism is defined as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudices (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” (WHO)

  • Much of what we think we know about aging is a myth or stereotype. 
  • Our long term health and well-being will be greatly impacted by our attitudes to aging.
  • Research by Becca Levy Ph.D shows us that “ageism is associated with earlier death (by 7.5 years), poorer physical and mental health, and slower recovery from disability in older age…” (WHO).

*Scan QR code to go to American Society on Aging’s ageism fact sheet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our flyer/handout with resources (shared in a 2 column format), text below:

Ageism Awareness Day is an opportunity to draw attention to the existence & impact of ageism in our society and reframe aging.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared ageism a threat to global health. The harmful effects of ageism begin early in childhood.

Ageism is defined as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudices (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” (WHO)

  • Aging is living. Much of what we think we know about aging is a myth or stereotype. 
  • Our long term health and well-being will be greatly impacted by our attitudes to aging.
  • Research by Becca Levy Ph.D shows us that “ageism is associated with earlier death (by 7.5 years), poorer physical and mental health, and slower recovery from disability in older age…” (WHO).

2nd column:

“Ageism and Age stereotypes are often internalized at a young age…children are familiar with age stereotypes, which are reinforced over their lifetimes.” (ASA)

Age Positive picture books can counteract age stereotypes.

Search out older characters that remind us all–celebrating many birthdays is a good thing!

Picture books with accurate and positive images of aging can change attitudes and show:

  • A diverse group of older adults with knowledge, inner strength & creativity
  • Skills & strengths created by years of experience
  • Valuable friendships between generations

Resources:

— How Old Am I? by Julie Pugeat

—The Truth about Grandparents by Elina Ellis

—A Plan for the People: Nelson Mandela’s Hope for his Nation

By Lindsey McDivitt

—Just Like Grandma by Kim Rogers

—Ten Beautiful Things by Molly Beth Griffin

—Henri’s Scissors by Jeanette Winter

—A Morning with Grandpa by Sylvia Liu

—Abuelita and I Make Flan by Adriana Hernandez Bergstrom

—It Jes’ Happened by Don Tate

—I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark

by Debbie Levy

—Ten Ways to Hear Snow by Cathy Camper

—Tofu Takes Time by Helen Wu

—Nature’s Friend: The Gwen Frostic Story

by Lindsey McDivitt

—Mr. McGinty’s Monarchs by Linda Vander Heyden

—A River of Words: The story of William Carlos Williams

by Jen Bryant

—Northwoods Girl by Aimee Bissonette

—Brand New Bubbe by Sarah Aronson

—Big Papa and the Time Machine by Daniel Bernstrom

 

 

Posted in Activities and Resources, Articles, Especially For Teachers | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Review: On the Trapline

Posted on October 2, 2023 by lindseymcd

On the Trapline

By David A. Robertson; illustrated by Julie Flett

Tundra Books, 2021 (ages 4-8)

Guest post by Marsha Weiner

Language, landscape and love are three themes throughout On the Trapline as we learn, along with our young narrator, about the traditions and lifestyle of his Swampy Cree forefathers of Manitoba.

Just about every page spread has Swampy Cree words; tansi means hi, wakomakanan means family, pahkwanikamik means tent, Moshom means grandpa.

The story crackles with the fresh observations of a young boy traveling to the trapline that his grandpa remembers from his youth—where he grew up living off the land.

The pace of the story is slow and measured, (pehkach means slowly, minwashin means beautiful) as we learn about hunting and fishing and living closely with family, “Moshom tells me that everybody in the family slept in one tent, so they could keep warm at night. I think it would’ve been nice, being together like that.”

As grandpa reminisces, values and sensibilities are transmitted across generations. They don’t feel sentimental. There’s no dogmatic teaching.  The boy and his Moshom fish, chop wood, pick berries—then share the fruits of their combined effort; the lessons are embodied—they are authentic.

Elders are the transmitters of traditions and rituals that link generations. Can the ethical and substantive value of a tradition or ritual survive once the performative action is “out of date?”

I don’t know.

But, for sure, this trip with Moshom to the trapline has left a long-lasting impression on his young grandson—one rooted in language, landscape and love.

Ekosani (thank you).

Age Positive activities–help children learn about aging, to recognize age stereotypes and to anticipate late life with joy.

CONSIDER

What traditions does your family follow? Were they handed down from elders? Have they changed over time, from generation to generation? Has your family created “new” traditions or rituals? What does your family celebrate?

A library book was reviewed for this post. Thank you for this insightful guest post about a beautiful picture book Marsha.

Find more Age Positive picture books about grandparents.

October 7, 2023 is Ageism Awareness Day (You can help by alerting your local librarians & sharing this website and “A is for Aging” blog! Suggest a display of Age Positive picture books and some simple signage. Include the barcode below.)

A is for Aging has a new newsletter put out 4-5x/year. (Includes links to blog post & Age Positive resources and news) Sign up at top right of this page.

Posted in Book Reviews, Book Reviews for Ages 3-6, guest posts | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Review: Just Like Grandma

Posted on September 11, 2023 by lindseymcd

I hope all the grandparents enjoyed a Happy Grandparents Day 2023! I’m personally thrilled to be grandmother to a two year old book-loving grandson.

Just Like Grandma

byKim Rogers;

illustrations byJulie Flett

Heartdrum; 2023 (Ages 4-8)

Just Like Grandma might be the perfect book to gift grandparents and grandkids. It generates happiness and gratitude. It shows us the value of our Elders. And it challenges numerous ageist assumptions. It’s vital we expose children to age positivity for their own health and longevity.

The author skillfully keeps the focus on how young Becca and Grandma are alike, despite their large age difference. In a contemporary setting, the Native American duo bead moccasins, dance and paint.

Art by Julie Flett

“More than anything, Becca wants to be just like Grandma.”

Grandma is obviously creative, curious and active. Watching Becca play basketball, Grandma wants to learn and “sprints outside.”

“Grandma wants to be just like Becca.”

 

Art by Julie Flett

Just Like Grandma is a celebration of the treasured times and special relationships children have with grandparents. Julie Flett’s illustrations are mellow, yet bright—keeping our attention on the special intergenerational relationships. Grandma, Becca and Grandpa live together, and Grandpa nurtures the small family with home cooked meals.

It’s significant that Grandpa is included. The majority of picture books feature only one grandparent. While there are certainly single grandparents, numerous children do enjoy both grandma and grandpa. More books need to show grandparents enjoying loving relationships. Also, there’s an increasing number of grandchildren living in a grandparent’s home.

 

 

art by Julie Flett

Back matter also includes a valuable author’s note, glossary and a history of Native American beadwork. An activity guide for Just Like Grandma is provided by Heartdrum, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.

A bonus in the Age Positive picture book Just Like Grandma!

The icing on the delightful cake that is Just Like Grandma is an unusual letter to readers from Heartdrum editor Cynthia Leitich Smith.* Cynthia is also a New York Times bestselling children’s author. Here she writes wisely on the importance of role models, often older role models, in the lives of children.

“Whether you have Elders in your day-to-day life or only through books like this one. I hope they inspire you in wonderful ways.”

Cynthia also makes an often overlooked point—she highlights how different grandparents and older adults can be. “…when I was your age, my grandmothers—one stylish and strong-willed, the other homespun and good-humored—were among my life’s greatest blessings.”

*Cynthia Leitich Smith was an early champion of this “A is for Aging” blog and website—beginning at its inception ten years ago! I’m forever grateful to Cynthia for supporting the need for Age Positive books for kids. A heartfelt thank you also for publishing this important picture book.

Art by Julie Flett

Just Like Grandma challenges myths about longevity

Both text and art in Just Like Grandma leave out the maudlin tropes and stereotypes often associated with aging. All too often elements of disease and dementia are portrayed as integral to growing old. Multiple generations are frequently conflated into simply “old”. Old and sad, lonely, forgetful and the like.

Unfortunately, even children who admire their own grandparents speak negatively about growing older and about older people. Ageist beliefs are evident in pre-schoolers. In 2021 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared ageism a global threat.

The truth about longevity? Age Wave’s latest study, The New Age of Aging, provides insights: “Older adults are at peak levels of happiness, and a large majority say the best time of their life is right now or in front of them.”

And “97% percent of adults 65+ agree that “it’s important to stay curious and be willing to learn new things throughout life.”

We Need Diverse Books

The groundbreaking nonprofit We Need Diverse Books (WNDB) is mentioned at the back of this book. The important goal of WNDB is “to create a world where every child can see themselves in the pages of a book.”

Just like racism, ageism steals away recognition of our abilities, individualism and awareness of our personal gifts and strengths.

The carefully chosen words and colorful illustrations of later life in children’s books affect kids’ health and longevity. It’s one of my dearest wishes that ageism in books for kids be included in discussions of diversity, and on the WNDB site.

Age stereotypes lead children to believe all older adults are the same—that their own future as older people is bleak. The reality is—we grow more diverse with age and experience.

***Age Positive activities help children learn about aging, to recognize age stereotypes and to anticipate late life with joy.

An activity guide for Just Like Grandma is provided by the publisher. Discussion questions 3,4 and 8 would be especially helpful in guiding a conversation around older role models and longevity.

Good news on the ageism front!

—New York schools roll out anti-ageism education in schools

—A is for Aging has a new newsletter put out 4-5x/year. (Links to blog post & Age Positive resources and news) You can sign up at top right of this page.

—TAKE ACTION! October 7, 2023 is Ageism Awareness Day (You can help! Alert your local librarians & share this website and “A is for Aging” blog! Suggest a display of Age Positive picture books and some simple signage.

*Include the QR code below. If scanned by a cell phone camera it will direct readers to this website for resources. Simply right click and save the image.)

 

 –Find more Age Positive picture book resources.

Posted in Book Reviews for Ages 3-6 | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Review: Iris Afpel: A Little Golden Book Biography

Posted on June 22, 2023 by lindseymcd

by Deborah Blumenthal, Illus. by Ellen Surrey

Golden Books; 2023 (Ages 4-8)

Review by guest blogger Marsha Weiner.

(To combat ageism Marsha is developing a curriculum for young children using storybooks that feature positive, realistic images of older adults. Contact: mweiner2009@gmail.com)

 

It’s a special joy to spotlight biographies of vital, active older adults. They are positive role models who embody a triumph over societal ageism.

Iris Apfel is described in this Golden Book biography as “a businesswoman, an interior designer and a fashion icon.” She is a great representation of a vital older adult whose life story continues to unfold at 101 years of age. The illustrator Ellen Surrey fills the book with vibrant colors so representative of Iris.

We learn of Iris’s early exposure to fashion and fabrics at her mother’s fashion boutique and her grandmother’s bags of fabric scraps.

Art by Ellen Surrey

She followed her interests and studied art in college. Iris’ interests propelled her and husband Carl to open a textile store. Their business allowed them to travel around the world—shopping for patterns and fabrics, and capturing design ideas.

Art by Ellen Surrey

At 84 years old Iris’s life took a turn. She became a fashion icon as the result of an unexpected exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art called “Rara Avis: Selections from the Iris Apfel Collection.” (Rara Avis means Rare Bird). It celebrated her unique fashion style—large eyeglasses, lots of bracelets and necklaces and mixtures of patterns and textures that ordinarily would not seem to “go together.”

Art by Ellen Surrey

As author Deborah Blumenthal tells us, “age never stopped Iris. “At 90 years old Iris launched a cosmetics company. At age 96, Mattel announced an Iris Barbie doll in her honor and then, at age 97 Iris signed a modeling contract. Somewhere along the way a film was made about her life. At the time of this review Iris is 101.

*See anti-ageism activity at bottom (Art by Ellen Surrey)

Along with the inspiring image of an older person unafraid of change, Iris’s story has added value for young children. In this era riddled with the perils of social media, especially for preteen and teenage girls, Iris offers a vibrant alternative – the value of cultivating a personal style. She would encourage them to listen to themselves.

Young children know what they like. Some wear the same sparkly purple tutu until the sparkle is gone and the tulle shredded, or they wear a certain pair of pants until threadbare.

I once had a conversation with an eight-year-old girl in an unusual, but compelling outfit. She proudly announced, “It’s my logo!”

 

Then somewhere along the way the advertisers and influencers, the bullies and the mean girls gain power and that confidence of knowing what one likes, a sense of one’s own style gets eclipsed.

And to inspire YOU, check out Advanced Style photographer and author Ari Seth Cohen’s project. Ari  says, “I feature people who live full creative lives. Check out his blog and books. There’s also a coloring book of Advanced Style.

Age Positive activities help children learn about aging, to recognize age stereotypes and to anticipate late life with joy.

From Marsha:

CONSIDER • RECONSIDER = KNOW

Young children need us to affirm their developing sense of themselves.

Provide swatches of cloth of different colors and patterns. Mix and match till the child finds what they like, as Iris did as a young child. Allow them to design their own color pallet. What are their colors? Encourage power in that agency – AT ANY AGE!

From Lindsey: The picture book Iris Apfel shows the amazing potential for creativity and change over a long life. It also gives us the opportunity to talk about ageism with kids.

When Iris turns 100, we read—“But Iris doesn’t act old. She likes to go out and have fun. She describes herself as the world’s oldest living teenager.”

The word “old” used casually (as it often is), implies many stereotypes commonly associated with older adults. It is internalized ageism that forces us to see an entire cohort of people as identical—their strengths, individuality, and capabilities fading from view.

Older people, such as Iris, frequently feel pressure from society to differentiate themselves from the stereotypes—in words and actions.

Anti-ageism activity: ask a child—what do you think “acting old” means? Then gently challenge the stereotypes such as grumpy, witchy, slow, sad, forgetful, and sick, even kind and wise. Ask—are all older people like that? Point out that Alzheimer’s is a disease. Age is a continuum—no one is just young or just old.

Discuss the variety of people they know over sixty. Older adults are even more diverse than younger people. Rich life experiences enhance a diversity of abilities, talents and interests.

What do many people believe falsely about all children? Are all kids a certain age the same?

Find more Age Positive picture books to discuss.

Each Friday author Susanna Hill shares picture books at her blog PERFECT PICTURE BOOK FRIDAY.

Posted in Activities and Resources, Book Reviews for Ages 3-6 | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Review: The Big Bath House

Posted on June 15, 2023 by lindseymcd

The Big Bath House by Kyo Maclear; illustrated by Gracey Zhang

Random House Children’s Books; 2021 (Ages 4-8)

Guest Blogger Marsha Weiner shares an insightful book review and related Age Positive activity for children. Many thanks Marsha!

Traditions bind us together. Whether great or small traditions present children with opportunities to observe the older adults in their lives as they begin to absorb patterns which form their own behavior.

Consider even the idiosyncratic “private” jokes hatched amongst family members, friends or with colleagues to consecrate shared experiences, as well as the ritualized civic and religious events people participate in throughout a year.

The Big Bath House highlights family traditions in Japan as observed by a child. It’s delightfully presented and informs a positive, realistic image of older relatives.

Art by Gracey Zhang

You may not be familiar with the Japanese Bath House. It’s a communal experience of cleaning and relaxing in steamy hot water, with friends, neighbors and family, while unashamedly nude. (Women and men used to take to the baths together, now most baths are segregated by gender.)

In the story a young girl travels with her mother to visit the mother’s birthplace in Japan. All the characters are female; the young girl, her mother, the girl’s baachan, (grandmother short for Oba-chan) and the girl’s aunties and cousins.

Art by Gracey Zhang

Western shoes are exchanged for geta (a Japanese wooden sandal), and western clothes are changed for yukata (a light cotton kimono worn during the summer or after a bath.)

The group goes to the bath house with smiles on their faces as if anticipating the communal relaxation they know is about to wash over them; “To the bath that is steaming. To your cousins, all beaming.”

Art by Gracey Zhang

This particular bath house is shown to be in a garden with birds and plants. The illustrations show the traditional low benches women sit on as they scrub themselves and one another, before they enter the big bath.

“You- your baachan, aunties, and cousins will slip into the big bath. A chorus of one long breath—Ahhhhh.”

Art by Gracey Zhang

It’s enviable—the comfort of being one amongst all types of bodies, all shapes and sizes reflecting the spectrum of the lifecycle. As observed by the young narrator, “Newly sprouting, gangly bodies, your saggy, shapely, jiggly bodies, your cozy, creased, ancient bodies. Beautiful bodies.” Seems so natural and healthful.

Art by Gracey Zhang

It’s not a big leap to reflect on the one of the original designated “Blue Zones” of longevity and health–Okinawa, Japan. You can learn more about the habits of the world’s longest lived people in the well-researched books of author Dan Buettner.

The research highlights habits including ikigai, the belief in a driving life force, as well as to moai, a powerful strong social network  amongst women friends. Moai is forged in childhood and maintained until death—cultivated though a lifetime of shared traditions and rituals including going to the bath house.

 

Enjoy some vicarious relaxation just by reading The Big Bath House.

 

Age Positive activities help children learn about aging, to recognize age stereotypes and to anticipate late life with joy.

CONSIDER • CONTEMPLATE • CREATE

In the West reams of data articulate the value of relaxation. It reduces stress, increases brain function, boost immune function and more.

Are there traditions or opportunities in your life to share with young people that cultivate relaxation in a non-judgmental environment? Different from bonding while playing a sport together, or a video game, but some healthful activity which benefits all ages across the generations. One that supports relaxing together with joy, love and peace of mind.

Find other Age Positive picture books that share relaxing traditions:

A Morning with Grandpa

Grandpa Alan’s Sugar Shack

Jingle Dancer

Berry Song

Ten Ways to Hear Snow

Betsy’s Day at the Game

Tofu Takes Time

Author Susanna Hill shares picture books at her blog  PERFECT PICTURE BOOK FRIDAY.

Posted in Book Reviews for Ages 3-6 | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

The Keeper of Wild Words

Posted on May 12, 2023 by lindseymcd

By Brooke Smith, illus. by Madeline Kloepper

 Chronicle Books 2020; Ages 5-8

Guest blogger Marsha Weiner shares an insightful book review and a related Age Positive activity for kids. Take it away Marsha!

Author Brooke Smith shares the impetus for writing The Keeper of Wild Words in her author’s note. She was “angry, disillusioned and ultimately very sad” on learning that the Oxford Junior Dictionary removed over 100 natural words from its pages. AND replaced them with words such as; analog, cautionary tale, vandalism, voicemail….You get the picture!

In an effort of sweet revenge we get The Keeper of Wild Words.

The older person in the story is a writer—a grandmother named Mimi. She is a curious naturalist with a desire to capture “wild words”—words of the natural world, so they do not fall out of use, and disappear.

Mimi has a list of wild words which she shares with her visiting granddaughter Brook, along with a Mission, “I need someone to keep them safe, to help remember them. I need you to be my Keeper, The Keeper of the Wild Words.”

Brook arrived at Mimi’s with a problem, she must select “one special thing to share” at her upcoming first day of school. But that problem evaporated with the importance of the Mission to capture wild words.

With list in hand the two set out:

“From sunup to sundown, we’ll walk and run and walk again, sit and wait, listen and touch, until we find every word on the list. Or every word finds us.”

Brook and Mimi go through meadows, around a pond and into a forest, capturing a dictionary worth of wild words on their list; buttercups, dandelion, porcupine.

Brook comes up with her own wild word, bird cloud, to describe a flock of starlings!

The relationship between grandmother Mimi and her granddaughter Brook reminds us of a fundamental principle that binds the generations; young people often follow what their elders love.

Mimi’s loose hair, flowing clothes, easy gait and genuine love of interacting with the sensory-rich natural world is a model Brook readily follows. And a terrific non-stereotypical illustration of a grandmother.

There’s an ease to their relationship as Brook absorbs her grandmother’s love and respect for the natural world, along with a gentle curiosity. Brooke’s courage grows too.

“Finally they wandered over to the dense, dark woods. Brook had always been a little afraid of the forest, but now part of her was wild, and she couldn’t wait.”

Their day-long hike capturing wild words ends at the edge of a stream—which Brook learns is her namesake, “You were named after this tiny stream that your mother always cherished.”

Young Brook is transformed by their adventure. Fulfilling the Mission, Brook also realizes her problem has been solved—she has a real treasure to share at her first day of school- a list of wild words.

Age Positive activities help children learn about aging, to recognize age stereotypes and to anticipate late life with joy.

CONTEMPLATE • FORMULATE • DON’T HESITATE

You don’t have to be a grandparent to share what you love with young people. Do not hesitate! Whether it’s listening to a treasured form of music, studying maps, repairing mechanical toys children want to experience with you what brings  you joy and meaning.

Thank you for your excellent guest post Marsha!

Find other picture books where grandparents share what they love with their grandchildren. Click on the titles below for more information:

Ten Beautiful Things

Kiyoshi’s Walk

The Ocean Calls

Abuelita & I Make Flan

Gus & Me

Northwoods Girl

Betsy’s Day at the Game

Nana in the City

This post is part of Perfect Picture Book Fridays at Susanna Leonard Hill’s Perfect Picture Books.

Posted in Activities and Resources, Book Reviews for Ages 3-6, Book Reviews for Ages 6-9, guest posts | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

Pretty Painless Ways to Help Our Planet

Posted on April 21, 2023 by lindseymcd

Dear friends,

I remember the very first Earth Day back in 1970, and I’ve long thought of myself as an environmentally conscious person. But recently I’ve faced facts—I really need to kick it up a notch (or two).

This post is decidedly different from my Age Positive picture book posts (and a 1X digression) but–no less important to today’s children.

Join me on this journey if you’re interested. And please share your ideas for shrinking my carbon footprint!

Several things have prompted new actions:

  • My wish to look my grandson in the eye and say: “I did my part to cut my carbon emissions, because I care deeply about the planet we’re leaving you.”
  • Our planet is in peril and right now the greatest need is reducing energy use.
  • My personal climate anxiety is high. I hope it will ease a bit as I see my carbon footprint shrink.
  • I strongly believe that individual efforts DO have an impact. (Pound by pound of CO2.) “In fact, our lifestyles are responsible for an estimated two thirds of global emissions.” UN.org
  • My starting point was measuring my contribution to the amount of carbon dioxide & equivalents (CO2e) going into the atmosphere. Now I have personal benchmarks AND easy steps to take. —Check out this quick carbon quiz if you’re interested. (I created an account & “signed” a commitment, but it’s not necessary to glean tons of ideas.)
  • Right now I’m focused on reducing my use of energy from fossil fuels—because—scary climate change. “We are using the equivalent of 1.6 Earths to maintain our current way of life, and ecosystems cannot keep up with our demands.” Also water use. (Not that we should stop recycling or turning off the tap while brushing teeth…but personal REALITY CHECK, that will not fix this problem.)It helps me to see how many pounds of carbon I’m able to keep out the atmosphere with my efforts.If you want to come along for the ride—fantastic! (Wish I owned an EV.) Many friends and family are way ahead of me. Please share your tips! But meanwhile…here’s a few of my discoveries.

    See link below or find them along with some great resource links at a new page on the website: GOING GREEN.

  • PRETTY PAINLESS WAYS TO HELP OUR PLANET*
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“Old Rock (is not boring)” and “Bertolt” picture books

Posted on April 5, 2023 by lindseymcd

Guest blogger Marsha Weiner shares two picture books with us in a thought provoking post with a theme of aging—Old Rock (is not boring) and Bertolt. She also shares Age Positive Activities to Explore with Children.

Marsha is creating a curriculum for young children using picture books to support positive attitudes and beliefs about aging with kids. For more information please contact Marsha Weiner at mweiner2009@gmail.com.

Read Marsha’s book reviews below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’m discovering books where the aged character is an element of nature. These stories are refreshing and they provide a path for lively discussion around aging.

They build on the intuitive connection many young children feel with the natural world.

Mentioning a child’s intuitive connection with the natural world may invoke groans and furrowed brows—thinking some hackneyed sense of childhood innocence is being encouraged.

Not so.

Consider that an intuitive connection with the natural world is the result of 3.8 billion years of microbes, and the animal, vegetable, and mineral kingdoms patiently figuring out how to flourish on Earth.

Sophisticated inquiries into biological evolution support the insightful hypothesis of biophilia. Biophilia endorses “the connections that human beings subconsciously seek with the rest of life.”

This intuitive seeking can connect children to an enhanced understanding of the flourishing of life. It’s expressed at each stage of our lifecycle—with a renewed appreciation of that which is lucky enough to be “old.”

Old Rock (is not boring) by Deb Pilutti

G.P. Putman’s Sons, 2020

(Ages 4-8)

Synopsis: Old Rock has been sitting in the same spot in the pine forest for years & years. Spotted Beetle, Tall Pine, and Hummingbird think that must be boring, but they’re in for a surprise.

At the opening of Old Rock (is not boring) we meet members of the animal and vegetable kingdoms surrounding Old Rock. They feel sorry for Old Rock and express their sadness that this member of the mineral kingdom cannot fly, or experience thrilling and different views of the landscape, or dance in the wind.

Old Rock’s existence appears to them to be stagnant and dull.

Illustration in Old Rock (is not boring)

 

As Hummingbird, Spotted Beetle, Tall Pine and others express their negative assumptions, Old Rock has a story to tell—charting the geological history of the planet going back over a billion years;

–being forged by extreme heat, ejected into flight by volcano eruption, meeting various creatures great and small, traveling on glacial streams, and more.

illustration in
Old Rock (is not boring)

Old Rock transmutes assumptions and negative disregard for being “old” into curiosity and appreciation for all Old Rock has experienced, continues to witness and joyfully shares.

The story ends with an agreement amongst all the kingdoms; animal, vegetable and mineral:

Old Rock has done a lot of living and is “not boring at all.”

Age Positive Activities OBSERVE. CONTEMPLATE. NARRATE

  • Take a walk around the neighborhood

–Choose an element of nature; a tree, rock, a flower, a bush

–Write and illustrate stories, poems, songs about what that element of nature has “seen” and “sees” in the child’s neighborhood;

–Ask what might nature witness; a police car zooming by, an ambulance going to the hospital, stores change, children go to school, busses driving by, a dog taking a leak.

–If the child lives in an urban setting; observe, contemplate and narrate an old building.

  • Share pictures of young and old people of different cultures.

Note this great source of photos!

DISCUSS: Who has more memories to share? What stories do you have to share? Do you think old rocks are boring?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bertolt by Jacques Goldstyn

Translated from the French by Claudia Zoe Bedrick

Enchanted Lion Books; 2017

(Ages 4-9)

Synopsis: touching story about a boy whose best friend is an oak tree named Bertolt.

The narrator of Bertolt is a young child who has lost a mitten. The child goes to the Lost & Found at school and failing to find the mitten’s mate, grabs a mitten of a different color.

Getting teased for wearing a mismatched pair of mittens is not a problem.
Our childish narrator does not care; this child is a self-described loner.

Instead of fishing or playing sports or running around with others, our narrator bakes alone and skateboards solo.  For connection the child has a tree.

“I love doing lots of things by myself, but I love climbing my tree best of all.”

The child named his tree, an old oak, Bertolt.

illustration in Bertolt by Jacques Goldstyn

A neighboring old oak was recently cut down, and the rings of the trunk revealed that tree was 172 years old. Bertolt is much bigger, so our narrator proclaims, “He must be at least 500 years old.”

Art by Jacques Goldstyn in Bertolt

 

 

 

 

We then see all the adventures the child has enjoyed with Bertolt throughout the years.

“I love everything about Bertolt.” Climbing Bertolt is “like climbing a secret ladder.”

 

 

 

 

Spring arrives and as trees unfurl with a new season of blooms, Bertolt remains bare.

The child realizes Bertolt has died but is befuddled. “I know what to do if a cat or a bird dies. But what should I do for Bertolt?”

Art in Bertolt by Jacques Goldstyn

“I have to do something before Bertolt is turned into firewood, furniture or toothpicks. I think I have an idea.”

The story then comes full circle.

The child bicycles back to the school Lost & Found and takes the box of mismatched mittens, then drives by an unsuspecting mom and swipes her bag of clothes pins.

Art in Bertolt by Jacques Goldstyn

Returning to Bertolt the child clips the varied mittens onto Bertolt’s bare branches—thus creating a colorful celebration of love while recognizing the grief of losing the beloved tree.

Age Positive Activities DISCUSS & CREATE

–Why did the child give the tree a name? Describe the child’s relationship to Bertolt.

–How do you feel when you are among tall, old trees? (Show images of a young sapling next to images of old trees.)

Could the child play in the sapling like he played in Bertolt?

–Write a song to sing to old trees.

–Write a letter to the tree Bertolt.

Many thanks for your guest post Marsha!

***Find more picture book reviews by authors at PERFECT PICTURE BOOK FRIDAY–the blog of author Susanna Leonard Hill.

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Adventure in Reading Glasses

Posted on February 13, 2023 by lindseymcd

copyright
Stephanie Watson

A guest post in comics

by Stephanie Watson, award-winning children’s book author of Pencilvania

Greetings readers! I have a delightful change of pace for you today–a playful take on reading glasses from cartoonist and fellow Minnesota author Stephanie Watson.

Despite the fact that we are all aging lifelong, acknowledging our need for readers is often the first time that many of us face the fact we are growing older and our body is changing. Stephanie acknowledges this with equanimity and humor–a terrific step toward aging with positivity.

We can actually live longer and healthier when we avoid going down the rabbit hole of anxiety, fear of aging and negative stereotypes. There’s lots to look forward to as the years roll by.

Read on!

copyright
Stephanie Watson

copyright
Stephanie Watson

copyright
Stephanie Watson

 

copyright
Stephanie Watson

copyright
Stephanie Watson

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Stephanie Watson

copyright
Stephanie Watson

copyright
Stephanie Watson

 

Artist & Author Stephanie Watson

*All images used with permission of the artist.

Stephanie Watson is a published children’s book author, cartoonist, and educator. She leads creative workshops (drawing and writing) at events and within organizations, using the power of play to help people develop creative problem-solving skills, de-stress, and have fun together. Her latest novel for young readers, Pencilvania, was named a Best Book of 2022 by the New York Public Library.

Creative workshops: www.createwithstephanie.com

Children’s books: www.stephanie-watson.com

Comics: www.instagram.com/thepennycarnival/

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