Finding Wonder in Our Everyday Chaos: A Review of The World Needs the Wonder You See
As a mom, finding calm moments in the whirlwind of toddler meltdowns, snack time negotiations, and bedtime battles can feel like a treasure hunt. Recently, after a particularly chaotic day, my two littles and I settled down for our bedtime ritual. It was one of those nights when I just wanted to read something special that would transport us out of our usual routine. That’s when The World Needs the Wonder You See by Joanna Gaines came into our lives, and oh, was it the breath of fresh air we all needed!
This delightful picture book invites families to slow down, look closely, and embrace the magical little wonders hidden in our everyday lives. Through whimsical prose and vibrant illustrations by Julianna Swaney, Joanna shares the joys of exploring nature and encourages kids to immerse themselves in it. As we flipped through the pages, my children took immense joy in spotting the colorful ladybugs in their “tiny cabins” and the dreamy mushroom fields that seemed to come alive with possibility.
The narrative is inspired by Joanna’s own experiences as a parent, as well as her son’s insistent “look up!” This struck a chord with me! How often do I catch my kids gazing curiously at the sky? Just last week, during a walk, my youngest paused to marvel at a buzzing bee. This book beautifully expands on those moments, reminding us that the world is filled with surprises just waiting to be discovered.
The illustrations are nothing short of enchanting—my kiddos were absolutely captivated! They eagerly pointed out each detail on every page. One of their favorite spreads, depicting children exploring underground tunnels and climbing treetops, led to an impromptu discussion about bugs and their homes, inspiring my son to imagine what it would be like to be a ladybug for a day. It’s moments like these that weave education seamlessly into our storytelling, making reading a genuine bonding experience.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a family reading session without a touch of humor! When our dog trotted by during a particularly vivid description of ocean waves, my daughter excitedly shouted, “Look! She’s a mermaid!” It’s those spontaneous giggles and nuggets of imagination that make reading together so rewarding.
I would wholeheartedly recommend The World Needs the Wonder You See to families with children aged 4 to 8, especially those who find themselves in need of inspiration to slow down and appreciate life’s little details. Whether you’re a fan of Joanna Gaines and her design prowess or simply searching for engaging literature to cozy up with, this book is a perfect addition to your collection.
In our home, it has quickly become a beloved favorite. After all, how fitting is it to remind ourselves, especially amid the chaos and busyness of family life, that we can still find beauty and wonder in the world around us? So grab a comfy blanket, a cup of tea, and snuggle up with your little ones as you embrace the imagination this book offers. You never know what wonders you might discover together!
