I Can Make a Difference: A Treasury to Inspire Our Children

by Marian Wright Edelman, Barry Moser (Illustrator)

Marian Wright Edelman has drawn from a variety of cultures and peoples to compile these timeless stories, poems, songs, quotations, and folktales that speak to all children to let them know that they can make a difference in today's world.

Genres: Nonfiction, Religion, Childrens, Poetry, Short Stories, Picture Books

112 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2005

About the author

Marian Wright Edelman is an American activist for children's rights. She has been an advocate for disadvantaged Americans for her entire professional life. She is founder and president emerita of the Children's Defense Fund. She influenced leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Hillary Clinton.

Reviews

[Christine Turner]

Art Camp -- Li Chi and the Serpent


Marian Wright Edelman has drawn from a variety of cultures and peoples to compile these timeless stories, poems, songs, quotations, and folktales that speak to all children to let them know that they can make a difference in today's world.

Note:

I can make a difference by loving myself and others as God loves us and treating others respectfully and fairly -- I can make a difference by being courageous -- I can make a difference by aiming high and holding on to my ideals -- I can make a difference by caring and serving -- I can make a difference by being honest and telling the truth -- I can make a difference by persevering and not giving up -- I can make a difference by being determined and resourceful -- I can make a difference by being grateful for the gift and wonders of life -- I can make a difference by working together with others -- I can make a difference by being compassionate and kind -- I can make a difference by being nonviolent and working for peace -- I can make a difference by being faithful and struggling for what I believe.

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've had this book for years but finally read it today. This is an inspiring collection of poems, short stories and ideas on how we can all make a difference in the world. Great for kids of all ages.

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a wonderful book. I’m so glad that I added it to my family read aloud time. It is filled with a treasure trove of wisdom lessons and encouragement for the young and the young-at-heart. Bravo!

Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Keeper: Yes

[Sharie · Rating 4 out of 5]

rough beginning, but worth sticking with it

[April Fusilier · Rating 3 out of 5]

Marian Wright Edelman has complied a wholesome collection of short stories, poems, fables, and wise words from across cultures that offers children wonderful examples about how they can make a difference in the world. Some models on how they can make a difference is by being generous, loving and courageous individuals. One fable illiterates how one situation could be made better or worse depending on the attitudes of the individuals involved. I enjoy the fact that students are being armed with values that epitomize service and good character.

[Sarah Hurdelbrink · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book serves as a sampling of poems, anecdotes, stories, and instructions for how all children can make a difference in the world, regardless of where they are from or what religious beliefs they hold. The author has included a wide variety of examples and has drawn on the histories and beliefs of many cultures and groups of people in compiling this book. The text is designed to affirm the power inherent in each human being to shape the world in which they live.

[Sam Bloom · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice collection of poems, fables, and folktales from around the world, all used to illustrate 12 different ways that kids can make a difference. The 12 ways are separated into chapters (i.e., "I can make a difference by being courageous, "...by caring and serving," etc.) With illustrations by Barry Moser, who incidentally rocks, this is a strong collection despite a few clunkers.

[Rachel Dalton · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an awesome collection of poems, short stories, quotes, and fables. It is organized into sections of ways we can make a difference as individuals, such as working together, being honest, treating others with respect, and being generous. I am using some of the fables for teaching inferring. However, I could use the poems for a variety of lessons and activities as well.

[571 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gr 2-4 Booklist
presents commonality among world religions- to love your neighbor. chapters set up as good morals to have to 'make a difference'. includes poems, short stories, and folklore from multiple cultures and times periouds. excellent book.

[Katherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

A truly inspiring collection of stories, poems, and quotations about characteristics that will build stronger children. A little disappointing; I thought sometimes the book was written just to showcase the compiler's own writings.

[sarafem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Make your child an activist today.

[Partridge Public]

Edelman, Marian W.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

We used this book daily in our summer program and I absolutely loved it! It has moral driven tales from all walks of life and cultures.

[Marge]

great book of inspiration