Bigger, Stronger, Braver
By Winki Chan and Natasha Raisch
Audience: Ages: 5-9
Bigger, Stronger, Braver is a children’s book based on the life of a boy named Darío, who was born, raised, and continues to live in the region of Putumayo, Colombia. The region has been vulnerable to the violence of clandestine armed actors and state-sanctioned counterattacks throughout Colombia’s decades-long civil war. The book probes the question of what it means to learn, what it means to seek peace, and what it means to use education as a tool in the pursuit of peace.
“We have the power to stand up for ourselves with our brains, our words, and our people.”
This book contributes to recognition and appreciation for individuals and communities that continually work to peacefully mitigate conflict, and touches upon themes of resilience and innovation. Guiding questions are provided for adults to facilitate in-depth conversations and active reflection with younger audiences about the macro level factors that influence our lives. This story ultimately helps remind children that they have the power and tools to be changemakers in their own communities, and encourages them to think about ways in which they can work together.
Read along with the authors as part of the “Books of Belonging” series at HGSE.
Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this publication belong solely to the authors and do not necessarily represent those of REACH or the Harvard Graduate School of Education.