|
The World Is a Beautiful Place,
by A. Don Augsburger
Illustrations by Lara Ressler-Horst
The World Is a Beautiful Place is designed to be read to
or with children to prepare them to face the
possibilities of disaster or to give assistance to
children dealing with the pain and suffering resulting
from some form of disaster. The book is simply written
in poetic verse with warm colors and charming
illustrations.
While the book is aimed at young children, the author
manages to introduce multiple messages, which are ideal
to encourage awareness and stimulate discussion. The
story begins with a focus on ecology; e.g., “a world to
enjoy, a world to protect.”
The next theme is about diversity—the world is a diverse
place with many adults and children of different races
who live in many places around the globe. Although
children are not all the same, they can still experience
the same behaviors and emotions, such as laughing,
singing, hurting, crying, loving, caring, giving, and
sharing.
Dr. Augsburger describes how the world can be a
beautiful place, filled with all sorts of living
creatures, cities, mountains, and seas. While there is a
balance in nature, there are times when change occurs
and the world is not a happy or safe place in which to
live. The author describes several types of changes that
may occur. For example, there may be strong winds
(tornadoes, hurricanes), heavy rains (flooding), or
shakes (earthquakes). When these changes occur, the
child needs to be aware that some things they love may
be broken or lost, which may cause them to feel hurt or
sad. Sometimes friends or families can be injured,
separated, or even lost, leaving them alone and afraid.
The author describes various feelings that a child may
have when his or her safe world has been disrupted.
The author points out that nature doesn’t want to hurt
children, but some disasters occur naturally. He
stresses that children are not alone; family, friends,
or neighbors, or even God, can provide comfort and care.
The story ends on a positive note, filled with
acceptance and hope for the future.
Dr. Augsburger has a doctorate in education and is a
longtime teacher/pastor. He has taught many age levels,
from elementary through seminary, having served as a
pastor in at least twelve settings. He cares about
children and hopes that their lives may be lived in
safety and peacefulness.
Ms. Ressler-Horst is a painter and child sociologist who
lives with her husband and son in the Blue Ridge
Mountains in Virginia. She uses art as a powerful tool
for communicating with children, especially those that
have been traumatized.
A portion of the proceeds from sales of this book will
be donated to agencies related to disaster relief.
To order:
www.peppertreepublishing.com,
www.amazon.com, www.borders.com,
www.barnesandnoble.com,
or www.booksamillion.com.
Book Review
by: Stephen M. Horowitz
|
