How to change the world in 12 easy steps Inspired by the life lessons of Eva Mozes Kor

K-Gr 3--The simplicity of the 12 easy steps in this book is disarming and deeply moving. Tierney quietly introduces matter-of-fact instructions that have the lived veracity of a wise old soul: "Did you know you have the power to change the world? It's easier than you think. Start small. Make your bed and tidy your room." It moves to more complicated moments of social interaction: "If you see someone who needs help, volunteer to help them. Is someone being bullied? Stand up to the bully with them. But don't bully the bully." After the revelation of these 12 steps, accompanied by friendly, almost folkloric scenes of cityscapes and playgrounds, an extended author's note reveals the source of these gentle insights. Eva Kor survived a concentration camp when her family did not. She found that she was happier when she chose to forgive the people responsible for this tragedy, and developed her map of how to be human. There are admonishments woven in, to forgive but remain distant from people who have caused harm and may cause harm again, for example. Children are told to hang on to their dreams and be their best selves, and the world, it seems, will be better, too. VERDICT This no-fuss guide counts on children's humanity for its force, rather than spirituality or any whiff of religious thought, and in doing so, its impact is immense.--Kimberly Olson Fakih, School Library Journal

Everyone has the power to change the world, even children. All they need to do, encourages Tierney, is start small and follow 12 easy steps. Some are simple. They can give their parents a hug, clean their room, or invite someone sitting alone to join them. Other steps are more nuanced or challenging: accepting people for who they are, never giving up on their dreams, and standing up to a bully without becoming a bully. Letourneau draws racially diverse children thoughtfully engaging with the world. Her bright, charming illustrations amplify each step, one double-page spread for each. While the simple text speaks directly to readers, the illustrations extend it, showing readers through facial expressions and actions how to follow the steps. There are even occasional instances of speech or thought bubbles, showing specific examples of how children can embody the gesture suggested. The final step is a beautiful explication of forgiveness: "Forgiveness doesn't mean what they did was okay….Forgiveness means that you decide you don't want to be angry, and when the anger is gone, there is more space for happiness." It and the entire book were inspired by Eva Kor, a Holocaust survivor, who inspired many with her capacity to forgive the people who caused her so much loss and pain. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A touching and beautiful guide to consideration and kindness. (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.