How to Change the World in 12 Easy Steps

K-Gr 3–The simplicity of the 12 easy steps in this book is disarming and deeply moving. Tierney quietly introduces matter-of-fact instructions that have the lived veracity of a wise old soul: “Did you know you have the power to change the world? It’s easier than you think. Start small. Make your bed and tidy your room.” It moves to more complicated moments of social interaction: “If you see someone who needs help, volunteer to help them. Is someone being bullied? Stand up to the bully with them. But don’t bully the bully.” After the revelation of these 12 steps, accompanied by friendly, almost folkloric scenes of cityscapes and playgrounds, an extended author’s note reveals the source of these gentle insights. Eva Kor survived a concentration camp when her family did not. She found that she was happier when she chose to forgive the people responsible for this tragedy, and developed her map of how to be human. There are admonishments woven in, to forgive but remain distant from people who have caused harm and may cause harm again, for example. Children are told to hang on to their dreams and be their best selves, and the world, it seems, will be better, too.