Maura Pierlot, (text) and Jorge Garcia Redondo, (illustrator), Alphabetter: A Better You and Me, from A to Z, Affirm Press, February 2024, 32 pp., RRP $19.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781922863942
What a brilliant idea! Maura Pierlot has a PhD in philosophy, specialising in ethics and believes that character development begins at an early age. With this in mind, she has created a picture book that will encourage children to explore qualities and values that promote a kinder, more compassionate and inclusive world [media release].
Each letter of the alphabet is matched with a word that introduces the reader to a virtue or character strength. Synonyms are provided, together with a brief definition including an example of how this virtue can be practiced, as well as a question that will lead a child to explore ways in which they can practice the virtue.
For example:
Tolerant: accepting, open-minded.
Being tolerant means respecting others without judging them. Like when you consider someone’s opinion, even if you disagree.
What are some ways that you can be tolerant?
(Redondo’s accompanying illustration shows two kids, talking about their favourite animal – one child’s thought-bubble shows a cat, the other a dog.)
The illustrations are bright, cheerful, and inclusive and clearly demonstrate the virtue in question.
This book will make a perfect addition to a pre-school or primary school library. It is an excellent resource for teachers to help engage young students and assist them to grow into a person who makes good choices.
Reviewed by Gaby Meares
