Book Review: It Takes A Village

What can you do to make the world a better place?

This important question serves as the basis for Hillary Clinton's first children's book, It Takes a Village.

Following the release of her New York Times best-selling book for adults by the same name, Clinton's voyage into the world of picture books carries a similar, uplifting theme.  In It Takes a Village, readers will be inspired by the heartwarming text and beautiful images of a diverse community happily working together.  For a village to thrive, it requires everyone to do their part and show belief in one another.  Clinton's message puts children at the center of that effort and stresses the importance of building a world that the next generation can thrive within.

Although Clinton's background as Secretary of State and a former Democratic Presidential Candidate define her as a political figure, this elegant picture book is very much non-partisan.  Based around the premise of helping others, Clinton, along with Illustrator Marla Frazee, paint a picture of a harmonious world where everyone works together.

The book's powerful message and beautiful artwork helped make this a 2017 Washington Post's Best Children's Book.  It Takes a Village is recommended for children 4 to 8 years of age.

Helping Others

The book's appeal comes from it's positive, encouraging message of helping others.  Within the story, we see how children and adults from different families all work together to build a playground in their community.  The book stresses that a lot can be accomplished when every child has a champion who can provide them with the right tools.

Clinton does an excellent job of relating this back to larger principles of showing kindness and caring to help pick up families in need.  By working together, we can build a better world for everyone, and that starts with children at the foundation.  That message is accentuated by Marla Frazee's stunning illustrations which combine bright colors and amazing detail.

Although the books text is relatively short, the message within it is very powerful.  It's a great message that is applicable for kids of all ages (and adults).

On the very last page of It Takes a Village, make sure to check out Clinton's author's note.  It's a beautiful summary of her purpose behind writing the book and an important message for parents.  Clinton references inspiration from her own children and grandchildren as her primary motivation for penning this lovely, uplifting story.