Dream big
Children’s books have the capacity to make complex ideas more simple, colorful and sometimes, even more meaningful. By simplifying the large issues of the day, children’s books articulate a clear message and leave the rest up to the reader. Interpretation of the pictures and scant text is not the job of the author – it’s an exercise of the imagination.
So you can imagine my excitement when I found a new children’s book to fawn over. I stumbled upon this book last week when my friend Selica mentioned it from her travels abroad. She is currently living South Korea – where An Awesome Book has apparently spread like wildfire. The author made a short video about his journey to writing the book – a story of humble a guy who wanted to write a book about dreaming for his son. The final product is beautiful. Colorful and imaginative illustrations fill each page, and the message (although somewhat contrived) has something refreshing about it. It didn’t feel like any other children’s book – it felt like something meant for grown ups.
By the end, his message is this: that dreaming is a skill that shouldn’t be wasted on tangible things like money and goods. Instead, he wants kids to give up those wants in pursuit of dreams that inspire action and fun. It reminded me of a quote Diana (another friend abroad) sent me.
“At every level the greatest obstacle to transforming the world is that we lack
the clarity and imagination to conceive that it could be different.”
- Roberto Unger
Just reminds you that dreaming isn’t just for kids or the naive. It’s for everyone.
He has posted the entire book here for you to read – and buy if you feel the inspiration. He donates one book to the public for every book purchased online.
Here’s a little sneak peek:
Holding in tears after reading it only because I’m around other people.
Thanks, friend.
So, I was alone when I read the book. I guess it made it easier to cry. This book is so beautiful and I’m going to gift it to many. Jeff, thanks for posting, and I think I loved the book more because you recommended it. I hope you’re doing well…I miss you!!