A Cozy Read-Aloud: Discovering The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be
As a mom, I cherish those quiet moments snuggled up with my kids, especially when we dive into a new picture book. The other night, we were in one of those “I don’t want to settle down for bedtime!” moods. So, when I pulled out The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be by Joanna Gaines, I hoped it would not only capture their attention but also spark some deeper conversations.
This colorful gem introduces a delightful group of children who embark on a magical adventure of building hot-air balloons, each unique—just like them! As they work together, they learn that their diverse talents can create something even grander than they could manage alone. The book beautifully emphasizes the importance of celebrating our differences and working as a team, reminding us that the world truly needs all the unique qualities each of us brings.
From the moment we opened the story, the illustrations by Julianna Swaney captured my children’s imaginations. The vibrant colors and whimsical designs had my little ones’ eyes wide with wonder. My youngest, who often loves to point out everything that catches her eye, was particularly taken with the blushing pinks and sunny yellows of the balloons. “Look, Mommy! That one looks like a strawberry!” she exclaimed, her excitement palpable.
The writing itself has a gentle flow, almost like a lullaby. As I read the lyrical lines, I could feel the calmness wash over us, pulling my kids into the story. It became a lovely bonding moment as they chimed in on the refrain, “You’re one of a kind, and it’s so clear to see: The world needs who you were made to be.” With each read, it reinforced a powerful message; even more than the words, I felt their little hearts resonating with the idea of being special and worthy.
One of my favorite moments came when my son asked, “What do you think makes me special?” It turned into a sweet, giggly discussion where we each shared our unique talents. For my youngest, it was her ability to dance like nobody’s watching. For my son, it was his skill in building complex Lego structures. Those moments—where a book pulls us into real-life reflections—are exactly why I treasure reading time.
I can’t recommend The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be enough! It’s not just a delightful bedtime story but also a jumping-off point for discussions about diversity, kindness, and self-acceptance. I believe it’s perfect for kids aged 4 to 8, making it a great pick for classrooms, bedtime stories, or sweet gift-giving occasions.
In our home, this book has quickly become a family favorite, and I can see it becoming a cherished keepsake for years to come. As we glide through bedtime with this enchanting tale, I’m reminded that we’re all on this beautiful journey together—embracing our quirks, talents, and hearts. So grab a cozy blanket, snuggle up, and let this story touch you and your little ones as it has touched us.
Discover your unique potential with The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be! >>
