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Posted by Laura L. Johnson Jun 30, 2008 |
As a final word on this topic, I want to go back to picture books. When you think of children's literature, you may think of Alice in Wonderland or Tuck Everlasting, but I want you to go even further back. Remember some of your favorite picture books. If You GIve A Mouse A Cookie often tops people's lists. What can you remember about these books? One of my favorites, for example, was a book called Bert and the Broken Tea Pot. In this book, Bert is working for Mr. Hooper, when he accidentally breaks one of his favorite tea pots. Bert then faces the dilemma of either sweeping up the teapot and hoping he doesn't notice, or telling him.
No surprise ending here - Bert does the right thing and Mr. Hooper assures him that telling the truth is always better. So why did I ask you to remember you favorite children's picture book? More than likely, your favorite also contained a life lesson - and it seems to me like these life lessons should be read by adults again - especially those in politics.
Think of hte latest news stories. Maybe as adults we do need to be reminded that it is better to come clean and be honest than to "sweep something under the rug." But most adults will never be reminding of those books. Most would never set foot in the children's section for their own enjoyment - but who says we don't all need a little reminder now and then and the basics in life. Head to your library soon and peruse those picture books - see what you can't learn.