I love it when readers comment on these blog posts. A lot of people are email subscribers and hit reply and I get their comments via email. I received an especially lovely one after the What Is Your Favorite Children’s Book? post that went out earlier this week. I have gotten permission from the writer, a subscriber in Paris, to reprint it here. I think this comment illustrates beautifully the power of books (and poetry, and art, in general) to help us heal, be empowered and perhaps even transformed.
Hello Susan,Interesting that I should receive a blog from you on children’s literature. It has been suggested to me that I convert one of my poems into an illustrated children’s book. I always get something from you that is timely for me. My favourite children’s book is “The Rainbow Goblins” by Ul de Rico.A good friend gifted me with that book soon after I had been burglarised and raped at knife point in my apartment. It was just a kind gesture on her part, stemming from a desire to “do” something, for me. Of course I did all the police follow-up and received counselling on ending violence effectively, and it’s years later now, and I am fine. I’ve even given talks to women’s groups about protecting oneself and staying safe.I must say, however, that the book, “The Rainbow Goblins”, was most instrumental in helping me to get back on track. The story said to me that it is less important that there are people and forces or circumstances beyond your control that can, and do, sometimes, come in and take things from you or hurt you; But, more, that you can overcome them or defeat them.It is brilliantly illustrated as well. Sometimes, children’s books are even better and more meaningful for adults. Shel Silverstein is another favourite children’s author of mine. (was, he is deceased, though his works live on) Thank you for the piece on Margaret Wise Brown. I am embarrassed to admit that I’d never heard of her, but I will be looking her up. That’s for sure! I am also a fan of Lesléa Newman.There is a part of me that, like “Peter Pan”, in a way, will always be a wide eyed girl of ten or so, and I like it that way. She keeps me from growing old, which is different from aging, and she never lets me take myself too seriously. We have a lot of fun. :-D
Now you can see why I love my readers so much. You are an amazing bunch. Thanks to all of you! xo
