Diversity makes the world we live in more colorful and fascinating. Julie Kratz's Little Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally suggests the best approach to addressing differences among children. Learn more about it and enter to win cool prizes!
My Review:
Little Allies is an educational and enlightening read on the topic of acceptance and inclusion. The story is told from the perspective of Ally, a fourth grader in a class consisting of children with different cultural, ethnic, and family backgrounds. For example, Parish and her family celebrate the Indian holiday Diwali instead of Christmas; Lucia knows Spanish better than English; Jack has parents of the same gender; Sam identifies himself neither as a boy nor as a girl.
On each day of the school week, Ally is committed to helping her friends feel included by being kind, considerate and respectful. When running into situations where one of her classmates is being mean to her friends, she doesn't hesitate to stand up against the bully, who is less tolerate of differences and tends to discriminate. The teacher and the coach in the story play an active role in providing the guidance kids need as they learn to embrace diversity and honor equality.
Instead of merely stressing the importance of acceptance in a cut-and-dried fashion, the book lays out a good number of relatable scenarios that any child may encounter at school, and then provides practical advice for how to handle each situation properly through the actions of Ally and the educators. While the story teaches about showing care and concern without hurting one's feelings, it urges the adults to take the lead in helping children understand differences and appreciate their benefits. It's comforting to see that the bully in the story realizes his mistakes and makes apologies.
Ally's speech toward the end highlights the main messages the author wants to deliver while the Ally Promise further clarifies what inclusion entails and the principles to abide by. The book also includes a discussion guide with thought-provoking questions for those interested in exploring the topic in depth. I think the book is useful to read both at home and in the classroom. It's perfect for Pride Month!
About the Book:
Written by Julie Kratz
Illustrated by Edwards Maiello
Ages 5-10 | 74 Pages
Publisher: Next Pivot Point | ISBN-13: 978-1736515907
As Ally navigates through her school day, she watches her classmates face bullying and discrimination. Ally realizes that they all want the same thing – to be accepted as they are. Ally learns an important lesson, brought to light by her teacher, that our differences make each of us unique and special, and that we can be an ally to others to help them navigate through life.
Little Allies is a touching tale that reminds us of the importance of accepting each other, celebrating our differences, and working to become an ally. The colorful pictures show Ally’s willingness to stand by her friends, even when she doesn’t know how else to help. Adults in the story are also important allies, helping kids navigate challenges, learn ways to support, and cherish their uniqueness.
The bonus material at the end of the book will spark discussion at home or in the classroom.100% of online book sale proceeds will be donated to a nonprofit or organization focused on children’s diversity and inclusion development or providing equitable access to opportunities for all children.
Order a copy: Amazon | Bookshop
About the Author:
Julie Kratz is a highly acclaimed TEDx speaker and inclusive leadership trainer who led teams and produced results in corporate America. After experiencing many career “pivot points” of her own, she started her own speaking business, focused on helping leaders be more inclusive. Promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, Julie is a frequent keynote speaker, podcast host, and executive coach. She holds an MBA from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, is a Certified Master Coach, and is a certified unconscious bias trainer.
Her books include Pivot Point: How to Build a Winning Career Game Plan, ONE: How Male Allies Support Women for Gender Equality, and Lead Like an Ally: A Journey Through Corporate America with Strategies to Facilitate Inclusion, and Little Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally.
Meet Julie at NextPivotPoint.com.
One lucky grand prize winner will receive a Little Allies ART-Stravaganza prize pack!
It includes:
- A copy of Little Allies, autographed by Julie Kratz
- A $50 Target gift card
- An ART-stravangza kit for your budding artist including:
- A Sketchbook
- Skin Tone Colored Pencils
- Crayola Multi-Ethnic Skin Tone
- Washable Tempera Paints
- Paint Brushes
- Crayola Skin Tone Multicultural Crayons
- Crayola Skin Tone Multicultural Markers
Two additional winners will each receive a prize pack including a copy of Little Allies, autographed by Julie Kratz, a Little Allies Slap Bracelet and a Little Allies Sticker!
Giveaway ends 6/17. Please submit your entries below. Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveawayDisclosure: This is a sponsored post in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Next Pivot Point. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for winner selection or prize fulfillment.
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