Who In the World . . . Quien en el Mundo—An Imagining Book for Children

"Who In the World" is a book with a story.   It is an "imagining" book because it allows children to use their imaginations to think about God and their lives, school time,  family and  friends.   Because the book is in Spanish and English,  it also invites children to have fun with another language. 

The story behind the book is that it was designed in part by some of the students and teachers of an ELCA school, Pilgrim Lutheran School in Chicago, IL.   The developers, Sally Simmel and Bob Sitze spent time, after school and with lots or refreshments,  with students, talking about their favorite ways of expressing themselves, what they like to draw and write about and what kinds of pictures they like to color. 

Principal David Maring arranged for a focus group session with students Steven Mendiola, Maddie Nelson, Nic Nootens, Linnea Ross, Anthony Ruff, Claire Ryan, Estera Vilic, and Stella Warren.  They didn't pull any punches, even down to describing  the kind and color of paper that is easiest to draw on.   Teachers Judy Kiehm and Michael Knuth assisted with questions and comments.   All of that provided direction for art and design of the final book.  

The book is geared to the interests of children in Grades 3-6, their parents and teachers.  It can provide a special opportunity for parents who want to talk with their children about the present and future assets they and their children possess, gifts with which to do God's work in the world.

In school and congregational settings  the book will encourage children to imagine how their lives have value in the greater scheme of things.  

There are a variety of ways to engage children in conversation about what interests them and why.   They can tell  about the meaning of their art,  the stories and poems they write, and the dreams the pictures bring to mind.  

Pages can be copied and sent to grandparents for special occasions, put on bulletin boards at school and home, used for projects.  

Deep in the pages of the book is the hope that children will be helped to see their capabilities to be doing God's work right now as well as in the future.   Deep in the pages are affirmations of the child's worth, which can lead to the beginning of making life and vocational choices.   Deep in the pages is our hope that it will bond children to one another and the adults who love them.   Along with having lots of fun, of course.

ORDERING INFO:
Copies of “Who In The World” may be purchased for:
$4.00 (1-5 copies);
$3.50 (6-19 copies);
$3.00 (20 plus copies)
and ordered from the Division for Ministry,
ELCA, 8765 Higgins Road Chicago, IL 6063l
Make checks payable to SPLASH.

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