Sophie gets bored quickly and won’t even eat her food without looking at her tablet. She’s thrilled to hear of her family’s upcoming trip to a magical place called India, a land she’s only heard of in stories. Once there, she quickly realizes that the underprivileged children living in the mud colony possess a joy and contentment she can’t explain. Sophie sets out on a journey of discovery, but what she finds may change her world forever. This tale about the true meaning of happiness and the power of gratitude is based on true events.
Buy the Book
Amazon
add to goodreads
*Interview with author Susan Justice*
Susan, a legal advocate for children’s rights, has long harbored a dream of crafting a tale that would empower young readers to understand and champion the rights of their peers. Drawing upon her own experiences as a young person comprehending privilege, she was inspired to write a book that would not only entertain but also inspire her readers to consider pressing social issues and to actively strive to make the world a better place for all children.
connect with the author: website ~ instagram ~ instagram
Why did you write this book?
I created this book because I searched for a children’s book that candidly discussed privilege and provided guidance on making a positive impact. After reading countless books, I realized that there was a lack of resources that gently explained the disparities in our world and encouraged children to be proactive in helping others.
Through this book, I aim to instill in young readers a sense of responsibility and a desire to use their privilege for good to help bridge the gap between those who have and those who lack necessities.
My goal is to awaken their empathy and inspire them to work towards creating a world that is more equitable and just for all. By fostering a sense of interconnectedness and purpose, I hope to plant the seeds of a brighter future and encourage the next generation of leaders to reach for the stars.
Children are often unaware of the unfortunate realities that exist, such as widespread hunger and lack of access to basic necessities like food, clean water, and education. I want to shed light on these issues and inspire children to take action, to recognize that even though some may have more than others, we are all equal and have the power to make a difference in the lives of others.
As a mother of three children under four, I always look for ways to instill essential values in them. I understand they are still very young, but I want to be proactively in helping them comprehend how lucky they are to have access to the resources that many other children worldwide do not. I set out to write a book that teaches children about gratitude, the power of belief in something greater than ourselves, and the magic of giving.
You’re an attorney; what made you want to become an author?
Children are often unaware of the unfortunate realities that exist, such as widespread hunger and lack of access to basic necessities like food, clean water, and education. I want to shed light on these issues and inspire children to take action, to recognize that even though some may have more than others, we are all equal and have the power to make a difference in the lives of others.
As a mother of three children under four, I always look for ways to instill essential values in them. I understand they are still very young, but I want to be proactively in helping them comprehend how lucky they are to have access to the resources that many other children worldwide do not. I set out to write a book that teaches children about gratitude, the power of belief in something greater than ourselves, and the magic of giving.
Why did you use the word privilege in your book? It may be triggering for some.
The topic of privilege is vital in today’s society because it sheds light on the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities that exist in our world. Understanding privilege is crucial because it highlights how some individuals are marginalized and oppressed and helps create a more inclusive and just society. By acknowledging and recognizing privilege, individuals can work to dismantle systemic inequalities and work towards creating a more equitable world for all.
Can privilege ever be a good thing?
We all know privilege can perpetuate systemic injustices if not used responsibly. However, privilege can be a good thing when it is used to impact the lives of others positively. When individuals with privilege use their resources, influence, and access to advocate for marginalized communities, address social inequalities, and help those in need, they can help create a more just and equitable world.
Privilege can also provide individuals with the means to educate themselves, seek new experiences, and broaden their perspectives, leading to increased empathy, understanding, and compassion. By leveraging their privilege to make a positive impact, individuals can help create a more inclusive and supportive society where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. However, it’s essential to recognize that privilege can perpetuate systemic injustices and reinforce existing power imbalances if not used responsibly.
What will children gain from reading Children Who Dance in the Rain?
This book is designed to foster a sense of equality and mutual respect among all children, encouraging them to see the world and their peers through a lens of compassion and acceptance. Exploring the way in which we can all build bridges through diversity and how by working together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society, this powerful message is delivered through an engaging and relatable narrative that will appeal to young readers and their parents alike.
Thank you for this interview, Cherokee! I’m genuinely grateful for the opportunity.
*Review*
Children Who Dance in the Rain is an inspiring children’s book that takes a look at privilege, or rather underprivileged areas of the world.
We meet Sophie as a ‘privileged’ young child in America who travels to her grandmothers poorer village in India. There, Sophie meets a group of children that live in an entirely different world than her. Once there, Sophie’s perspective changes.
I love how the author shows how Sophie becomes inspired to change her ways, and inspires other to change theirs as well, with the zest and appreciation that the other children show for life.
The story is written in a way that children can easily comprehend and make connections, and is thought-provoking for entire families.
Children Who Dance in the Rain teaches young kids in a positive way that there are many less fortunate out there. This is such an important lesson for them to learn. The awareness helps children find comfort, opportunity, and security that many (including adults) take for granted.
I understand the point the author is trying to make, having Sophie give away her tablet. However, being a parent that has to work super hard to get these thing for my children, it greatly upset me. While yes it is a privilege to have these things, someone worked super hard for them and she just did this without talking it over with her parents.
The illustrations are vibrant and beautiful. The characters are so expressive and the images just pop off the pages. The compliment that text wonderfully.
There is a slight religious connotation to the story, depending on your religious views parents may want to pre-read the story first.
I rated Children Who Dance in the Rain four point five stars.
Title: Children Who Dance in the Rain
Author: Susan Justice
Category: Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-8), 32 pages
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Publisher: Compassion Project Press
Release date: May 2023
Content Rating: G for all kids
Scroll down for information on the giveaway!
Enter to win signed copy of CHILDREN WHO DANCE IN THE RAIN by Susan Justice.
One (1) winner will receive a signed copy of Children Who Dance in the Rain by Susan Justice. (USA only – ends June 9)
*Click the link to be taken to the entry form*
https://gleam.io/lC3PO/children-who-dance-in-the-rain-book-tour-giveaway
Books with a Chance of Traveling 