An author from Philadelphia, PA writes a new kid’s book that empowers young children to write. When kids first learn to write, it is messy and mistakes tend to happen. This is a discouraging part of growing up, but luckily Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow writes a story that teaches kids that it’s okay to mess up!
Abdul’s Story was published last month and tells the story of a child who is an oral storyteller but struggles with the mechanics of writing. Abdul faces learning difficulties. He also is discouraged because he “doesn’t see the kinds of stories that he has about his neighborhood, his Philadelphia community, in the classroom.”
It all changes when a writer visits Abdul’s classroom and shows them that not only can writing be a messy process, but all stories have value. Especially Abdul’s.
Thompkins-Bigelow stated that the inspiration for this story came from an experience that she had participating in Mighty Writers, a nonprofit that offers writing programs for children across the country.
The book centers on Muslim characters and was released days before Ramadan. Thompkins-Bigelow hopes it is another book people might want to gift on this holy month!
Writing is something very important and crucial in children’s development. From learning to sign your name, to upgrading to writing cursive, it is an exciting time in growing up. If you want to purchase this book for a loved one, or maybe gift it to a teacher, you can find it here.
For more recommendations for young readers, find our articles here!