A Reminder of the Importance of Reading

Thank you to Raluca and Cat! I loved this precious story.

It’s no surprise that I love picture books. I love all kinds of picture books- especially the kind that speak about the importance of stories and the hope they bring!

Today’s tale is one written by author Raluca Sirbu and illustrated by Alisa Barannik. Titled My Gift, this is a story for readers both young and old that refreshes our minds and reminds us of the beauty that books give us!

In a world where digital content is being normalized, it’s easy to sometimes forget the feelings that sitting in a cozy chair and reading a good book can bring us.

Feelings of safety, hope, peace, and joy.

My Gift nudges us to ponder this in an entirely different way by telling this story:

A young girl lived where stories had always been welcome and brought everyone together. They brought them happiness, and gave them meaning.

They brought happiness until a king banned the stories and caged them. All were lost but three, which were hidden inside a box among the possessions of the girl. Hoping to be able to share these precious remaining three in secret, she began sharing the three she had with her people, giving the courage and hope that they hadn’t felt since the king arrived.

This story will make young readers think…

My Gift is a book that will whisk young readers away into another world and cause them to appreciate stories even further.

Things to talk with your child about:

My Gift is a fantastic opportunity to have a one-on-one conversation with your child about the impact and importance of stories in their own life. Here are some questions that might be a fun way to chat about both the story and how it’s applicable in real life!

✒️ In what ways could the stories have brought people happiness before they were banned?

✒️ Why do you think the main character thought it necessary to share the stories she had with her people?

✒️ What is the connection between stories and hope?

✒️ How do stories impact people today, and you personally in your own life?

I hope you love this book just as much as I do!

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