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Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Giant Steps to Change the World, written by Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee and illustrated by Sean Qualls. Simon & Schuster, 2011. $19.99 ages


"The road won't be easy. People will try to exclude you, but you must leap over hurdles - like the Olympic athlete who won the gold even though he had been relegated to second- class status by the very country he was representing."


In this book, meant to convey inspiration to its readers, Spike Lee and his wife Tonya speak to the children of the world. It encourages them to believe that they can make a difference and have an impact.

Each new page refers to a heroic person from history who made the world a better place, who believed in themselves despite setbacks and who forged forward to realize a dream. The person is not named, but one of the quotes that emblazon the brightly colored endpapers will offer clues.

The brilliant mixed media artwork defines those who are honored here, adding depth and understanding as the pages are shared. With support, love and encouragement children can change the world. We all play a part in making that happen. It is the hope of the authors that parents will read it with their children, talk about the heroes included and then go on to find out more about each one of them. What a history lesson it can become!
The quotes include:

"Peace begins with a smile."  - Mother Teresa

"Hold fast to your dreams, for without them life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly." - Langston Hughes

"One chance is all you need." - Jesse Owens

The message is important and encouraging for each one of us...not just for our children. Dreams can become realities. We can be the ones that change the world for the better...it takes one small step!  It's up to each one of us...so, get out there and make a difference!

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