The Picture Book Perspective: The World Needs More Purple Schools


Hello, fantastic readers!

Today we’re diving into a delightful and colorful adventure with The World Needs More Purple Schools by Kristen Bell and Benjamin Hart. This charming follow-up to The World Needs More Purple People takes us back into the vibrant world of Penny Purple, where we learn that purple isn't just a color—it's a state of mind!

Historical and Cultural Perspectives

The World Needs More Purple Schools is a recent addition to the picture book landscape, published in 2022. Kristen Bell, known for her roles in Frozen and The Good Place, teams up with Benjamin Hart to bring a unique and contemporary voice to children’s literature. The book celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and the power of coming together as a community.

In a world that often feels divided, this book's message is both timely and timeless. It encourages readers, both young and old, to embrace what makes each of us unique while finding common ground to build something beautiful together. The "purple" in the title represents the blend of red and blue, symbolizing unity and cooperation.

Social-Emotional Content

At its heart, The World Needs More Purple Schools is about fostering empathy, kindness, and collaboration. Penny and her friends embark on various projects to improve their school, highlighting the importance of working together and valuing everyone's contributions. The story promotes social-emotional learning by showing children how to resolve conflicts, appreciate differences, and celebrate collective achievements.

The book also touches on the theme of self-expression. By encouraging kids to be their authentic selves and to appreciate others for who they are, it provides a foundation for building self-esteem and mutual respect.

Using the Book for Kids: Tips for Parents and Teachers

  1. Community Building Activities: Use the book as a springboard for group projects that promote teamwork. Whether it's a classroom garden, a mural, or a community service project, kids can learn the value of working together.

  2. Discussions on Diversity: Facilitate conversations about what makes each child unique and how these differences can contribute to a richer, more vibrant community. Create a “purple” classroom environment where everyone feels valued and included.

  3. Conflict Resolution: The book provides excellent examples of how to handle disagreements with empathy and understanding. Role-playing scenarios from the book can help kids practice these important skills.

  4. Art Projects: Let kids express their "purple" selves through art. Whether it’s drawing, painting, or crafting, encourage them to create something that represents their unique qualities and contributions.

  5. Empathy Exercises: Have children share stories about times they helped someone or worked as a team. This can build a sense of pride and community within the classroom.

Humorous Takeaway

Now, let's address the elephant (or should I say purple unicorn?) in the room: if the world really did have more purple schools, we'd probably need a lot more purple paint. Imagine the PTA meetings discussing the best shade of purple to use—Eggplant Elegance or Lavender Luxury?

And speaking of teamwork, can you picture trying to organize a school field trip where every kid is wearing purple? It would be like herding grapes! But, oh, what a sight it would be. The world definitely needs more purple, if only for the sheer joy and chaos it would bring.

So, whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or just someone who loves a good story, remember to add a splash of purple to your life this week. And who knows? Maybe we’ll all find that the world really does need more purple schools.

Until next time, keep those pages turning, and remember:

Where There's A. Williams, There's A Way.

Happy reading!

Adam

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Do you have a picture book for Adam to review? Email us your suggestion at beastlybanterblog@gmail.com

About the Author

Adam Williams is a dedicated elementary school teacher with a passion for literacy and children's literature. Married to Leigha, Adam is a proud father to a son named Tate and a daughter named Emery. He is known for his engaging read-aloud videos on his YouTube channel, "Where There's A. Williams, There's A Way," where he brings picture books to life for his audience. The Picture Book Perspective is published every Sunday. In his blog, he explores the historical and cultural contexts of picture books, delves into their social-emotional content, and offers insights for parents and teachers on how to use these books effectively with children. 

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