The Barefoot Book of Heroic Children
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
The Barefoot Book of Heroic Children by Rebecca Hazell is a collection of biographies about extraordinary children from around the world who have demonstrated remarkable qualities such as inventiveness, vision, perseverance, courage, kindness, and generosity. The book features stories of children overcoming physical disabilities, social prejudices, and severe hardships, while remaining true to their ideals. Written in an intimate style, and illustrated magnificently, the book aims to inspire young readers to find their path and make a difference in the world. With her refreshingly intimate, imaginative and thorough approach to notable people of the past, Rebecca Hazell brings together the stories of some of the most exceptional young people in the history of the world. Many of these children influenced subsequent generations with their inventiveness, their vision and their perseverance. Others combined qualities such as kindness and generosity with immense personal courage. Heroic Children tells stories of children who have fought and overcome terrible physical disabilities and social prejudices, and gives inspiring accounts of children remaining optimistic and true to their ideals, even when faced with severe suffering and hardship very early in their young lives. Compellingly written and magnificently illustrated, Heroic Children offers young people of today an exhilarating way of understanding what it takes to find and follow your path and to live your life in a way that makes a difference.
Age
7-10
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which story inspired you the most, and why?
How do you think the heroes in the book felt when they faced challenges?
What qualities do you admire in the heroes from the book?
If you were in a similar situation, what would you do?
How can we apply the lessons from these heroic children in our daily lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the stories to their own experiences by sharing personal anecdotes that echo the themes of courage and resilience.
Use praise to reinforce your child’s thoughtful responses and insights, fostering a positive and open environment for discussion.
Discuss the cultural and historical context of each hero’s story to enrich your child’s understanding and appreciation of diversity.
After reading each story, ask your child to draw a picture or write a short paragraph about their favorite hero, which can lead to further discussion about the story's messages.
Create a 'hero of the week' activity where your child identifies someone they know or have read about who exemplifies heroic qualities, discussing what makes them heroic.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The book recounts tales of young heroes from around the world, emphasizing their bravery in overcoming obstacles. It showcases how each character faced their fears to accomplish something significant.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles by standing up for themselves or others in difficult situations, be it in school or within their community.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The diverse backgrounds of the characters allow readers to see life from different perspectives. Through these stories, children learn the importance of understanding and empathizing with others' feelings and viewpoints.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop stronger relationships and be more considerate of others’ emotions in their day-to-day interactions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Determination
Explanation: Each story highlights young individuals who persisted through challenges without giving up. The characters demonstrate the resilience required to achieve their goals despite various hurdles.
Real-World Application: Kids can be motivated to continue working towards their own goals, whether it’s completing a difficult homework assignment or mastering a new skill in sports or arts.
Example Lesson: Making a Difference
Explanation: The book illustrates how the heroic actions of one person, no matter their age, can have a positive impact on others. It teaches that everyone has the potential to make a difference in their community or the world.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to take initiatives, like starting recycling programs at their school or helping out in community activities, showing them that their actions have value.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness and Appreciation
Explanation: By featuring heroes from various parts of the world, the book exposes children to different cultures and traditions, fostering a global mindset and appreciation for diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace inclusivity and cultural exchange, perhaps by participating in cultural festivals, trying new international foods, or learning a new language.