A few years ago, I came across a series of books that I believe set my daughter on a course of intrigue into real-life everyday heroes. Written by The New York Times' bestselling author Brad Meltzer, the series Ordinary People Change the World delivers 18 biographies on individuals who had a genuine impact on the world and tells their stories in an engaging way for young children.
Image via Ordinary People Change the World
These are endearing and encouraging stories, written in a language that's appealing to young readers. Each book begins with the words "I am," and follows on with names such as Helen Keller, Harriet Taubman, Neil Armstrong and George Washington. Meltzer follows this introduction with a description of their life when they were young: the hardships, the uncertainty and the bravery they found from within that pushed them to greatness. The information provided is easy to understand and fun to read. This will no doubt pique a child's interest in their achievements and motivate them to undertake more in-depth research in the future.
Comic-style illustrations by the talented Christopher Eliopoulos accompany each story and provide further insight and understanding into their narrative. When children see Rosa Parks told to "get off" the bus, it sparks a conversation and provides an opportunity for parents to discuss their child's thoughts on specific topics such as equality, innovation and what it means to be an activist.
Image via Ordinary People Change the World
On his website, Meltzer explains how he was inspired by his daughter and sons to create the series. He didn't want them to read fictitious tales when there are so many real-life heroes to learn about and draw inspirations from. This explains the eclectic array of personalities selected for the series. Children can choose from figures such as Jim Henson, Jackie Robinson, Jane Goodall or Lucille Ball, to explore how their lives impacted the world in ways still felt today.
As children finish each book, they are left with a final quote – a motivating takeaway that sums up his/her life. Meltzer himself believes that everyone has the power and potential to change the world, and with these engaging books he hopes that children are reminded to look around, as there are real-life heroes every day, everywhere.
I am Abraham Lincoln.
I will never stop fighting for what's right.
And I hope you'll remember that when you speak your mind –
and speak for others – there's no more powerful way to be heard.
Image via Ordinary People Change the World
[Cover image via Ordinary People Change the World]
Suitable for children ages 5-8
Available via Amazon.com, Taobao.com and Amazon.cn
