From Wonder to Wisdom

Although this book is rather outdated, it is still much worth the reading. Its being out of date is only due to the fact that many of the books to which the author refers are now out of print.This is a book about storytelling and reading aloud to children. As the title indicates, it talks about how to use stories to help children grow. The author lists eight primary "themes," which are areas in which stories can help. Those eight areas are as follows:1) becoming a goal seeker2) confronting challenges courageously3) growing closer to others4) coming to terms with loss and grief5) offering kindness to others6) preserving an openness to the world7) becoming a social problem-solver8) forming a positive self-image.In the first two chapters, the author provides some background for the rest of the book. Chapters three through ten each cover one of the above listed "themes" in detail. Again, many of the books to which the author refers are now out of print. Even so, the information is still completely valid! A reader today would just have more work to do in terms of identifying appropriate books/stories. (...or would need to spend time looking for used copies of the books discussed.)Part of my final Master's Degree project has to do with exactly what this book is about, and I have found it to be a very powerful and informative book.In closing, the following is a direct quote from chapter one (p.21 of the hardcover ed.):"Stories are powerful tools because they confirm chldren's perception of the world, expand their awareness and knowledge of the human condition, involve them in experiences that deepen their sensitivity to others, and provide opportunities to express what they think and how the feel. Through storytime chldren also learn to expand their vocabulary and other language skills, to listen and track an idea across time, and to read.Worthwhile stories also introduce children to life. Stories can be like windows to the world and inner experience. Through stories, children begin to make decisions about what is important and how they should behave. Storytime can be an important part of our relationship with children, one of the tools we can use to guide them to maturity."Happy Reading!