One of my favorite activities is reading books with my daughter. Even though she is now an independent reader, we still share precious moments enjoying stories together.
From a young age, we encouraged this habit and I always made sure to provide her with a collection of quality titles. With the eyes of experience, some of them have even touched me more deeply. Many of these children's and young adult books bring reflections relevant to adult life.
I would like to share here some of my favorites, which talk about friendship, empathy, and generosity:
1.The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein
From the same author of "The Missing Piece," this book, in a simple and touching way, talks about the friendship between a tree and a boy, until he becomes an adult. Throughout the story, even in the face of the boy's forgetfulness, indifference, and ingratitude, the tree gives itself to him completely, always welcoming him in a generous and happy manner.
2. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, by Charlie Mackesy.
This book, besides having beautiful illustrations, presents various reflections on life, love, friendship, kindness, and courage.
It starts with the meeting of a boy and a mole, and the other characters join them throughout the story.
"What's the bravest thing you ever said?" asked the boy.
"Help," said the horse.
"...
Asking for help isn't giving up," said the horse. "It's refusing to give up."
3. The Boy with the Green Thumb, by Maurice Druon.
The protagonist is an 8-year-old boy named Tistou. His father owns a cannon factory in the town of Mirepoil.
Tistou did not fit into conventional school life, as he always fell asleep in school. His parents then decided to introduce him to a new system of education, based on experiences.
Together with Mr. Mustache, Tistou discovers he has a green thumb, as wherever he touches, plants and flowers sprout instantly.
This gift, coupled with Tistou's empathy and kindness, brings beauty and joy to environments and situations of oppression, misery, pain, and war. And it completely transforms Mirapolvo and its inhabitants.
"A flower that grows is a true divination, that begins anew each morning. One day it opens a bud, on another unfurls a leaf greener than a frog, on another it rolls out a petal..."
Published originally in portuguese, on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/priscilazvmezzena_empatia-amizade-literatura-activity-7082044867484221440-HZ95?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
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