You Are Life
What’s inside...
A heartfelt story exploring the journey of a young boy discovering the importance of being true to oneself, embracing life’s challenges, and understanding the value of family and friendships. In a parallel narrative, a joyful poem celebrates the identity of children of immigrants and refugees, highlighting their multifaceted characteristics and reassuring them that their uniqueness will always be enough. The poem by award-winning author Bao Phi and illustrator Hannah Li remind young readers through lyrical text and fantastical illustrations that who they are and what they love will always be enough. Bao Phi, a notable poet and children’s book author, has previously won numerous awards for his works. Hannah Li, a New York-based illustrator graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design, is acclaimed for her illustrations in various prestigious publications and has received numerous awards for her work.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What does 'You Are Life' mean to you?
How do you feel when you help something grow, like a plant or a friendship?
What are some ways you can celebrate and cherish life every day?
Can you think of a time when you felt really alive? What were you doing?
How do you think taking care of the earth helps us appreciate life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts and feelings about life and its importance.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts, and validate their emotions throughout the discussion.
Use examples from your daily life or your child’s experiences to relate the themes of the book to the real world.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to delve deeper into their understanding and perspective.
Celebrate the discussions by planning a family activity that aligns with the theme of cherishing and enjoying life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story portrays characters who step into each other's shoes, understanding different perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider the feelings and viewpoints of others, promoting compassionate interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges but learns to overcome them with persistence and courage.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to face difficulties in life with determination, helping them to not give up easily.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: The characters in the book support each other through thick and thin, showcasing the value of true friendship.
Real-World Application: Children understand the significance of building and maintaining supportive friendships, enhancing their social skills.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The narrative encourages solving problems with imaginative solutions.
Real-World Application: It inspires children to think creatively in their everyday activities and challenges.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: The story integrates themes of nature conservation and respect for the environment.
Real-World Application: Young readers learn the importance of caring for the environment, translating into eco-friendly behaviors.