“The purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think, but to give you questions to think upon.” —Brandon Sanderson, Fantasy and Science fiction writer.
It is through stories, we build a child’s imagination, deepen thinking and help them navigate the world around us. Librarians are storytellers. There are so many stories to be told and read. Let’s use them appropriately and help students question the world and communities around them. Instead of simply memorizing, retelling or regurgitating the information we want to inculcate curiosity and reflection. As adults, we can open up possibilities to help children kindle their mind by nudging them to question, critically evaluate, investigate, critique and get inspired by them. Human beings love stories, both the old and the young – think of the time when your curiosity was piqued! It must have been a story that touched your heart and mind.
So, when you grab a book to read to the children, make sure the stories generate thinking.
5 keys to keep in mind when reading aloud to children:
Select stories that would help children think critically and reflect on the stories. (How is the character similar or different from you? What if it was your experience, how would you change it? If there is a problem in the story – pause and ask – How would you solve the problem? What are some other ways to solve the problem?)
Select stories with a voice, that share experiences of other cultures, sects, and belief systems, so that children appreciate the variety of cultures, ethnicity and simultaneously respect them. (Ask how is the character’s belief different from yours? How is their culture similar and different? What might you do to create an understanding of their roles? How can we learn and respect different cultures and ethnicity?)
Stories expressed with emotion and authenticity help them think of ways to solve social, economic or environmental problems. (Ask children – How might the character be feeling in the given situation? What can the character do to solve the problem? What might be some of the changes you can do save the situation? What are some problems in the world? How can they be addressed? How can we be empowered to help our world?)
Connect stories of the past with the present – get students to ask questions like Why? Why not? If? How could? When should? and How come? How has it changed over time? Why is it necessary to change? How can we help it become better? What will it look like now?
Stories that have information, building curiosity around the way the world works. Information books about technology, engineering, robotics, countries, currencies, forests, wildlife are some areas that we can discuss. (Ask how inventions have changed the way we live our lives? What might be the future trends? Look at the timelines and make predictions)
Stories are a diving board for cognitive growth. Think about a story that you still remember, they were told with emotions and sincerity. Such stories create a longer connect and have a lasting impact. Stories that resonate and touch the heart and mind of the child are stories they will remember. Let’s take this opportunity to instill in their mind the ability to contribute and make a difference to themselves and others.
Here is a list of curated titles to support the IB Learner Profiles. These books are easily available with Samir Kapadia <clearningaid@gmail.com> to help you build your collection and make it relevant for teachers and students.
The IB learner profile is the IB mission statement translated into a set of learning outcomes for the 21st century. The learner profile provides a long-term vision of education. It is a set of ideals that can inspire, motivate and focus the work of schools and teachers, uniting them in a common purpose. A list of titles that demonstrate profiles the learner profiles of the IB PYP Program
Inquirers:Their natural curiosity has been nurtured; they have acquired the skills necessary to conduct purposeful, constructive research. They actively enjoy learning, and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.
1. The Why-Why Girl by Mahasweta Devi
All children ask questions, through their natural curiosity the little Moyna is intrigued by things around her, she purposefully inquire’s, leading to active learning and love for learning that will take her to be a lifelong learner.
2. Following my Paint Brush by Dulari Devi and Gita Wolf.
A domestic helper who went on to become an artist in the Mithila style of folk painting from Bihar. Dulari Devi’s curiosity was further nurtures and learned the necessary skills to provide learning that will be sustained throughout her life.
3. The Elephant in the Tree by Mallika Nagarajan
With its quirky characters blended with fantasy, a story of Mahi who journeys with a seven trunked elephant into a new world that will change her life to become a miracle worker.
4. The World Tour Mystery by Manjula Padmanabhan
A series of questions and wonder on their trip to monuments, sites, and wonders of the world leads to a natural curiosity that is often led to research and a sustained sense of curiosity leading to students’ inquiry.
5. Gulla and the Hangul by Mariam Karim- Ahlawat
This story from Kashmir, where Hangul is a protected animal, carries the many shades and tones of the region – the quiet life of the villagers in the valley, their close link with nature, as well as well underlying disquiet that they earn to live with. Their natural curiosity will lead to purposeful inquiry.
Thinkers: They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to make sound decisions and to solve complex problems.
1. Colour-Colour Kamini by Radhika Chadha and pictures by Priya Kunyan Kapila Aunty is teaching the little chameleons how to change color to protect themselves. But, Kamini gets excited, and she finds it terribly hard to change color. Now, the other animals need to help her solve the complex problem.
2. Where is Amma? By Nandini Nayar
Are you there, Amma? Asks Kiran, in his eagerness to look for his mother, he looks everywhere even in the unlikeliest of places. Follow Kiran and apply your thinking skills to find Amma.
3. Mala’s Silver Anklets by Annie Besant
Mala would creep up from and scare everyone. This charming story leads to finding a solution to stop Mala from frightening everyone.
4. What Shape is an Elephant by Rumi Art by Feeroozeh Golmohamaddi
The story metaphorically explains how people have different ideas and information to express oneself and all of them may be correct with their reasoning and perception.
5. Who will Rule by Meena Raghunathan
Based loosely on an Australian Aboriginal tale has the quality of a fable. Effortlessly, it demonstrates a simple truth of living together. The animal in the story exercises their thinking skills to arrive at a sound decision.
Communicators: They receive and express ideas and information confidently in more than one language, including the language of mathematical symbols.
1. What did you see? By Nandini Nayar
Mother expresses her ideas through animation and action in trying to ask her daughter of the different animals that she must have seen while she visited the zoo. A hilarious story that student will enjoy. Through this tale, students will understand how communication can be through gestures too.
2. All About Nothing by Nina Sabnani
An interesting story about the origin of zero. Describes how people communicate their information and ideas confidently in mathematical symbols.
3. What Shape is an Elephant by Rumi Art by Feeroozeh Golmohamaddi
The story metaphorically explains how people have different ideas and information to express oneself and all of them may be correct with their own reasoning and perception.
4. Palanquin Bearers by Sarojini Naidu and art by Indu Harikumar
Describes how an individual can express themselves using poems as a form of expression, along with embroidery work sewn on a cloth to for a picture book creating a unique piece of work.
5. To Market! To Market by Anushka Ravishankar
The author has communicated her ideas through rhythmic verse, and the illustrator has graphically narrated the story with images wrapped around the world. Worlds like slithering, thumping and bumping around are expressed in varied formats to exhibit the pulse of the story. Students will learn that ideas can be communicated through graphics and words all wrapped together.
Risk takers: They approach unfamiliar situations without anxiety and have the confidence and independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas, and strategies. They are courageous and articulate in defending those things in which they believe.
1.. Putul and the Dolphins by Mariam Karim- Alawat
Putul lives in a village in Bengal and finds a way to protect the dolphins from being killed by the fishermen. She is courageous and adopts a strategy to defend and save the dolphins.
2. Alone in the forest by Bhajju Shyam
Mussa sets off on his own to collect wood from the forest to help out his mother. Suddenly he hears a deafening sound. Mussa is scared, but Musa finds a way out of his state of fear by approaching his anxiety with confidence and independence.
3. For the Love of a Cat by Rosalind Wilson
A painter loves his cat as much as he loves painting. One day, he is commissioned to paint a picture that will fetch him enough money to live. During the process, he is forced to choose between his art and his pet. Trapped in his dilemma, he remains courageous and chooses what he truly believes in.
4. Riddle of the Ridley by Shekhar Dattatri
The book delves into the fascinating life of these mysterious creatures and examines the problems that confront them, besides offering some solutions for the conservation of Ridleys and is articulate in defending something the author believes in.
5. Lai-Lai the Baby Elephant by Shekhar Dattatri
Lai – Lai and his mother are part of a larger family and live in a very big jungle in South India. If Lai – Lai and other elephants are to survive in the wild, we must make sure that there are enough jungles left for them. An informative text for students to learn to become risk-takers in trying to preserve the environment for their 21st-century world that they live in.
Knowledgeable: They have spent time in our schools exploring themes which have global relevance and importance. In doing so, they have acquired a critical mass of significant knowledge.
1. Stone Eggs: A story about Indian Dinosaurs by Helen Rundgren
Combining facts and fiction, this story shows the Indian landscape millions of years a go with a map about how dinosaurs lived not only in America, Africa but in India too. Thus, exploring the global relevance and simultaneously gaining knowledge about dinosaurs.
2. The Great Birdwood Games by Shamim Padamsee
Exploring this story through the sporting event in the jungle, Shamim wonderfully introduces birdlife through her characters who dive, dash, flip and flap across pages acquiring a mass of information and connection to other avian species around the world.
3. Walk the rainforest with Niwupatt by Aparajita Datta
Describes the extraordinary trip to a special place, where the sights and sounds are all wonderful and strange. A well-illustrated book with an eye for details and allows students to explore them and acquire knowledge that will have importance and relevance and impact to the world.
4. Bijoy and the Big River by Meera Sriram and Praba Ram
Bijoy, a young boy, learns about his traditions and lifestyles around him, making him knowledgeable about the environment and helping him understand ways he could sustain his environment.
5. Bhopal Gas Tragedy Book
Based on research, it examines the causes, effects of the worst ever industrial tragedy. Knowledge from this story highlights several issues of the responsibilities of science, technology, safety, human rights and attitudes towards the community.
Principled: They have a sound grasp of the principles of moral reasoning. They have integrity, honesty and a sense of fairness and justice.
1. We are all Born Free.
This book brings a clear understanding of our rights, responsibilities of what it means to be human in our world and to understand how all humans are connected to each other with respect.
2. Freedom story books
A series of titles from Tipu Sultan, Rani of Jhansi and others highlight the qualities of integrity, honesty and a clear sense of justice towards themselves and their country.
3. My Vote Counts
This series is aimed at drawing attention to the concerns for the responsibility and justice as members of the world community and Indians.
4. My Gandhi Scrapbook
This format opens us unusual perspectives to a most amazing man while focusing on the kaleidoscope of his life. A discussion of his life can lead to an understanding of what it means to be principled.
Caring: They show sensitivity towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a sense of personal commitment to action and service.
1. Mukand and Riaz by Nina Sabnani
This story is set in the background of the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. But the friendship between the children know no barbed fences and show a deep sense of caring and commitment in the relationship.
2. Ekki Dokki by Sandhya Rao and Ranjan De
An endearing Marathi folklore about two sisters – one being mean and the other being sensitive to the feelings and needs of others lead to a positive and a fulfilled ending since there is a sense of commitment in action.
3. My Gandhi Scrapbook
This format opens us unusual perspectives to a most amazing man while focusing on the kaleidoscope of his life. A discussion of his life can lead to an understanding of what it means to be caring.
4. Sorry Best Friend Book
It examines different ways to deal with communal harmony through respect and showing sensitivity and caring for the needs of others.
5. Why are You Afraid to Hold, my Hand
This book offers a sensitive approach helping students to understand disability and the strengths of those who are physically challenged.
Open minded: They respect the views, values, and traditions of other individuals and cultures and are accustomed to seeking and considering a range of points of view.
1. My Facebook Friends by Kavita Singh Kale My Facebook Friends opens up an opportunity to appreciate diverse views, values, and traditions with respect. 2. For the Love of a Cat by Rosalind Wilson and Wen Hsu
A wonderful story was written by an English author and illustrated by a Taiwanese illustrator. It describes a painter who loves his cat as much as his art work, in pursuing his art, the artist is confronted with a choice and a problem. Had the society shown perspective and an open mind view the artist would have continued to thrive with success.
3. Sorry Best Friend Book
It examines different ways to deal with communal harmony through respect and showing sensitivity and caring for the needs of others.
4. Mazzoo Mazzoo by Sandhya Rao
A warm, amusing folktale from Kashmir which captures life in a simple household and helps students appreciate other cultures and wonder about different lifestyles.
5. The Musical Donkey by Niveditha Subramaniam
A fable/Panchatantra tale of a donkey who felt happy when he sang through the night. Would others be happy with the song? A book for young students to comprehend different viewpoints and learn how to problem solve.
Well Balanced: They understand the importance of physical and mental balance and personal well-being.
1. Dancing on Walls by Shamim Padamsee
A story of little Shirvi who wants to give her parents a happy surprise. Through this story of wall paintings, the author shows how a child expresses herself through art creating a mental and personal wellbeing.
2. Cricket by Sandhya Rao
A popular sport in India shows how children balance their life with work and play no matter where they live or where they play.
3. Sabri’s Colours by Rinchin
A young girl is determined to get what is out of her reach the desire to draw. With a blend of art and learning, Sabri could definitely balance her life to nurturing her heart and mind.
4. What shall I Make & Pranav’s Picture by Nandini Nayar
Through these titles the author has shown opportunities or art and participating in adult world can help children become balanced, using art, play and craft to express oneself.
Reflective: They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and analyze their personal strengths and weaknesses in a constructive manner.
1. Mangoes and Bananas by Nathan Kumar Scott.
A trickster from Indonesia, tells the story of a friendship between a monkey and a deer. Monkey thinks of an idea to keep them both satisfied from hunger if they planted their tree in the garden. But soon they get into a problem. Finally, after thinking consideration to his personal strengths he solves the problem in a constructive manner.
2. The Magical Web Bridge by Geeta Dharmarajan
Baya a little bird who is a dreamer, doer, creative and imaginative analyzes her weaknesses and strengths. She years for her dream to come true. With the cooperation and teamwork of her friends, she is able to accomplish a dream.
3. Alone in the forest by Bhajju Shyam
Mussa sets off on his own to collect wood from the forest to help out his mother. Suddenly he hears a deafening sound. Mussa is scared but Musa finds a way out of his state of fear.
4. The Talkative Tortoise by Jeeva Raghunath
The tortoise loves to talk. He learns the hard way that keeping his mouth shut is sometimes important. ( A Panchantantra tale that helps reflective thinking)
5. The Rabbit in the Moon by Indrani Krishnaier
A herd of elephants create a ruckus in the jungle. The rabbits being reflective find a way to solve the problem instead of running away. (A Panchatantra Tale)
Here is a list of titles that match the IBO Attitudes. The learner profile describes a list of attributes that promote academic rigour and the establishing of a personal value system leading to international-mindedness. It is expected that PYP teachers will assess and report on individual student development regarding each of these attributes. (IBO)
Appreciation:Appreciating the wonder and beauty of the world and its people
1. Magnolia by Malati Shah
This story of the Magnolia flowers brings together the beauty of people and lends an appreciation of nature.
2. Black Panther by Aravind Krish Bala.
The two friends are in the jungle perched on a treetop at a waterhole in Kerala. The illustrations bring to life a silent, secretive, shy creature the panther and bring to the reader a sense of curiosity, wonder, and beauty of the world.
3. We Are All Born Free
It gives a clear understanding of our rights, responsibilities of what it means to be human in our world and to understand how all humans are connected to each other with respect
4. The Song of a Scarecrow by Suddhasattwa Basu
A wonderfully imaginative book! Helps children see that everything in our world has a role to play. Freedom and responsibility go hand in hand.
5. Who will be Ningthou? By Indira Mukherjee
The king and the queen rule the city of Manipur and then comes a time for them to name the next successor. A contest determines the ruler of the city. A story that reminds every child the beauty of gender equality while appreciating harmony and wonder of nature in the world.
Commitment: Being committed to their learning, persevering and showing self-discipline and responsibility.
1. The Elephant in the Tree by Mallika Nagarajan
With its quirky characters blended with fantasy, a story of Mahi who journeys with a 7 trunked elephant into a new world that will change her life to become a miracle worker by demonstrating self-discipline and responsibility.
2. Ma Ganga and the Razai Box by Geeta Dharmarajan
Through this story, the child shows commitment to her inquiry into learning about reasons for destruction and learns to preserve nature by showing responsibility and courage to pursue her desire to keep things in harmony.
3. Why the Sky is Blue? by Dr. C. G. Raman talks about science
It is through this book of questions that makes a student think and reflect leading the readers to understand the importance of commitment in learning through self-discipline and responsibility towards knowledge. The text is an excerpt from Dr. Ramans’ lecture about scientific inquiry. 4. The World Tour Mystery by Manjula Padmanabhan
This story takes the reader to 12 trips to monuments, sites and wonders of the world. It is through the perseverance and discipline towards the quest to learn leads us to understand the world around us. It is through the tour does a child comprehend the importance of commitment.
5. Putul and the Dolphins by Mariam Karim Ahlawat
Love for animals makes Putul show responsibility of protecting the dolphins in her village. A compassionate story describing the persistence, perseverance, responsibility and commitment towards Dolphins.
Confidence: Feeling confident in their ability as learners, having the courage to take risks, applying what they have learned and making appropriate decisions and choices.
1. Mangoes and Bananas by Nathan Kumar Scott.
A trickster from Indonesia, tells the story of a friendship between a monkey and a deer. Monkey thinks of an idea to keep them both satisfied from hunger if they planted their tree in the garden. But soon they get into a problem. Finally, it is the deer who is confident and takes the risks and develops the courage to make decisions and right choices.
2. Alone in the Forest by Bhajju Shyam
Mussa sets off on his own to collect wood from the forest to help his mother. Suddenly he hears a deafening sound. Mussa is scared, but Musa finds a way out of his state of fear by making appropriate choices.
3. Putul and the Dolphins by Mariam Karim Ahlawat
Love for animals makes Putul show responsibility to protecting the dolphins in her village. A compassionate story describing the persistence, perseverance and accountability and commitment towards Dolphins.
4. Why are You Afraid to Hold my Hand? By Sheila Dhir
A book about attitudes. People react in the strangest ways to children with disabilities. Through this text, learners will learn to understand the feelings and develop confidence to make appropriate decisions and choices when relating the people who are physically challenged.
5. Alone in the Forest by Bhajju Shyam, Gita Wolf & Andrea Anastasio
Musa sets off on his own to collect wood from the forest when a sudden deafening noise creates fear in the heart and mind of Musa. An interesting tale describing how Musa finds a way out of the state thought the choices he makes.
Cooperation: Cooperating, collaborating and leading or following as the situation demands.
1. Mangoes and Bananas by Nathan Kumar Scott.
This story is written by Nathan Scott who is inspired by folklore around the world. Folklore from Indonesia and Malaysia is taken and expressed using shadow puppetry. It is the cooperation of an Indian master craftsman who works at Kalamkari style of Indian textile to create this book. A collaboration of two different cultures.
2. The Magical Web Bridge by Geeta Dharmarajan
Baya a little bird who is a dreamer, doer, creative and imaginative analyses her weaknesses and strengths. She yearns for her dream to come true. With cooperation and teamwork of her friends, she can accomplish her dream.
3. Kali and the Rat Snake by Zai Whitaker
It is a story about a boy whose father is a snake-catcher. Kali has no friends and is often left alone. It is a situation in class that compels Kali to take the lead and courage alone makes him act as the situation demands. An engaging tale that supports the attitude of cooperation and friendship.
4. Who will Rule? by Meena Raghunathan
An interesting tale compelling students to think that if all the animals and birds performed their actions well then a ruler is not required and it is therefore, necessary for all creatures to cooperate, collaborate and lead to act well for a harmonious society.
5. The Old Animals’ Forest Band by Sirish Rao
An old Grimms fable retold in a different format describing how collaboration can solve problems.
Creativity: Being creative and imaginative in their thinking and their approach to problems and dilemmas.
1. Power Cut! by Sowmya Rajendra
The lights have gone off. Instead of feeling scared and frightened, the family members light a candle and begin to play making animal shadows and having fun. A delightful story to solving problems in a creative and imaginative way. 2. Mangoes and Bananas by Nathan Kumar Scott.
A trickster from Indonesia, tells the story of a friendship between a monkey and a deer. Monkey thinks of an idea to keep them both satisfied from hunger if they planted their tree in the garden. But soon they get into a problem. Finally, it is the deer whose confidence, risk taking attitudes and courage helps him make decisions and choices.
3. The Magical Web Bridge by Geeta Dharmarajan
Baya a little bird who is a dreamer, doer, creative and imaginative analyses her weaknesses and strengths. She yearns for her dream to come true. With the cooperation and teamwork of her friends, she can accomplish her dream 4. The Sacred Banana Leaf by Nathan Kumar Scott
In this clever trickster, the clever deer finds a way to escape from his trouble. His creative and imaginative thinking help him approach his problem with skill and talent. 5. My Friend, the sea by Sandhya Rao
Another interesting description of how the sea can be a friend and a foe to people. This book can evoke creativity in the thinking persuading students to think and approach problems and dilemmas with questions.
Curiosity: Being curious about the nature of learning and of the world, its people, and cultures. 1. The Snow King’s Daughter by Sowmya Rajendra
Keshav’s favorite game is to pretend he is traveling and is curious about his friend Lobsang, Being curious he inquires about the nature of her world, her people and her culture in Tibet. 2. Razia and her Pink Elephant by Mukul Dube
Describes how Sarasvati born in Kerala, lives in Delhi, Her uncle Sher Singh turned into a carrot taster who’s been to Myanmar, Australia, and South America and traveled to different places gives the reader an insight into different cultures. 3. How to Weigh an Elephant by Geeta Dharmarajan
A simple folk story describes how most of the people think in a community and it is the individual who is fearless, risk taker and a genuine feeling of curiosity who understands the nature of learning and find ways to solve problems. A true characteristic of interest is perceived in this story. 4. High in the Sky (A Korean Folktale) by Cathy Spagnoli
Through this tale, one can discover the lifestyle of the rural parts of Korea and appreciate the way of life of the Koreans. Moral of the story accompanied with illustrations exhibit the nature of the people in the Korean culture 5. What Shape is an Elephant by Rumi
Discover the philosophical aspect of the Persian Culture through the eyes of Rumi who explains that every individual has different opinions and notions about life and religion. In trying to understand the shape of the elephant metaphorically, he explains that when we open our mind’s eye and are open-minded, we truly are curious and accepting of people’s diverse views. Empathy:Imaginatively projecting themselves into another’s situation, to understand his/her thoughts, reasoning, and emotions. 1. Following My Paintbrush by Dulari Devi and Gita Wolf.
The artist in the story is sensitive towards other people who are less privileged than her domestic helper and is responsive to her needs. The author helps Dulari become an artist since she is so keen to pursue her passion for drawing 2. Fledolin by Antje Damm
Explains through the metaphor of a bat that hangs with their heads down, but Fledolin is different. He looks at himself and tries to find answers to why he is so different. Others project themselves in Fledon’s situation and find a way to understand their own personal thoughts and feelings. 3. Why are You Afraid to Hold my Hand by Sheila Dhir
People react in many strange ways when they are confronted by people who are physically challenged. Through this tale, the cerebral palsy child can express his doubts and fears of preconceived ideas. A touching tale that demonstrates empathy.
4. Pavo and Cavo by Nirupama Raghavan
The Crow who is not accepted by his other animal friends is upset. The author in her witty self-makes Pavo outwit his friends by using a trick. Ultimately, it is through an understanding of one’s emotions and feelings; Pavo can accept himself the way he is.
5. To Each Her Own by Vijaydan Detha
You don’t have to be in other peoples’ shoes to understand how they feel but you can definitely identify with others way of life. In this tale, the fisherwoman couldn’t enjoy the presence of her gardener’s hospitality; this tale would help you identify the meaning of empathy.
Enthusiasm:Enjoying learning. 1. Following My Paintbrush by Dulari Devi and Gita Wolf.
The artist in the story is sensitive towards other people who are less privileged than her domestic helper and is responsive to her need and helps Dulari become an artist since she is so keen to pursue her passion for drawing. 2. The Story of Brahmaputra by Priya Krishnan
This informative, factual story will give an idea how facts can be learned through different stories, thus leading one to be enthusiastic as a learner.
3. The Why Why Girl by Mahasweta Devi
The little girl’s enthusiasm to ask questions and wonder about facts in nature shows her joy for learning that ultimately leads her to a life of fulfillment and happiness. 4. Postcards from Ura by Savita Rao
Through an exchange of letters, the two children enthusiastically learn about each other’s cultures and ways of life. Learning comes in different ways, and one is through an exchange of letters making learning fun and personal 5. The 13th Riddle by Nadine D’Souza
A smart mayor is always showing how by asking riddles. The proud mayor finds his match with a young boy who cleverly matches different riddles from various parts of the world to celebrate his learning. Again, it is through riddles too that individuals can express their joy of learning. Independence:Thinking and acting independently, making their own judgments based on reasoned principles and being able to defend their judgments. 1. The Elephant in the Tree by Mallika Nagarajan
With its quirky characters blended with fantasy, a story of Mahi who journeys with a seven trunked elephant into a new world that will change her life to become a miracle worker showing independence through reasoned principles. 2. What Shape is an Elephant by Rumi Art by Feeroozeh Golmohamaddi
The story metaphorically explains how people have different ideas and information to express oneself and all of them may be correct with their own reasoning and perception. 3. Aani and the Tree Huggers by Jeannine Atkins
With her courage based on reason, she can defend her village and protect the people and her trees from the hunters and others who are about to reclaim their land. A true story based on faith, reason, courage, and independence.
4. Why is the Sky Blue? By Dr. Raman
This story urges young boys and girls to look around, observe nature and ask questions leading students to become independent thinkers. Reading this book gives a feeling of action through Dr. Raman’s ideas while his forceful makes his points through the gestures that are shown in the pictures. 5. Daddoo’s Day Out by Prabhjot Kaur
Daddo, the little frog, loses her way and it is the dragonfly who acts independently to save her and bring her home in spite of knowing that the frog could have eaten the dragonfly. Integrity: Having integrity and a firm sense of fairness and honesty. 1. We Are All Born Free
This book brings a clear understanding of our rights, responsibilities of what it means to be human in our world and to understand how all humans are connected to each other with respect. This title demonstrates integrity and develops and understanding of fairness and honesty.
Respect:Respecting themselves, others and the world around them 1. Magnificent Marina by Aravind Krish Bala
It is about a tuskless elephant which is believed to have protected the forests from poachers and timber traders for many years. This legend in the Tamil Nadu forest is shared among people, so people understand the importance of respecting themselves and other creatures in the world around them. 2. Following My Paintbrush by Dulari Devi and Gita Wolf.
The artist in the story is sensitive towards other people who are less privileged than her domestic helper and is responsive to her needs. The author helps Dulari become an artist since she is so keen to pursue her passion for drawing while respecting the value of others. 3. We Are All Born Free
This book brings a clear understanding of our rights, responsibilities of what it means to be human in our world and to understand how all humans are connected to each other with respect 4. Walk the Rainforest with Niwupatt by Aparajita Dtta
This story describes the rainforest and shows students to respect themselves and the world around them, after all, everything is interdependent. 5. Earthsong by Geeta Dharmarajan
Our Earth is a gift to all living creatures including animals and men. A wonderful tribute by Geeta who describes facts of the amazing diversity of the world. And a reminder to respect all living creatures of our world.
Tolerance: Feeling sensitivity towards differences and diversity in the world and being responsive to the needs of others. 1. Following My Paintbrush by Dulari Devi and Gita Wolf.
The artist in the story is sensitive towards other people who are less privileged than her domestic helper and is responsive to her needs. The author helps Dulari become an artist since she is so keen to pursue her passion for drawing. 2. The Sky Queen by Mamang
The story describes how one needs to be sensitive towards animals and environment around otherwise it leads to unhappiness and destruction. This title demonstrates the need to be sensitive towards diversity and to respond to the needs of society. 3. Man who would not Listen by Nonda Chatterjee
The old man and his dogs are always out for a walk in the early mornings of deserted alleys. When one day he is out and injured. In spite of the differences among living creatures the sensitive dogs can find a way to rescue the old man and respond to his needs, truly exhibiting action with tolerance. 4. In Bon Bibi’s forest by Sandhya Rao
The quiet village is terrorized by a monster while Bon Bibi is the protector of the forest and people are finally compelled to ask this question –Why do we do this? An age-old theme of human- animal relationship leading students to think of the harmony that is essential in our 21st-century world. 5. Mai and her Friends by Durga Bai
An award winning runner up book from “The Katha Chitrakala 2009” (Award for the best Children’s Illustrated Book”. An extraordinary tale of friendship that is maintained through sensitiveness, caring and responsiveness towards a relationship. Mai goes out to look for her calf and along the way is helped by other creatures. They respond and help her during her troubles, and in turn, she returns their kindness. A book displaying tolerance and care.
