God gives every individual gifts and talents that make one unique. In first-time author Suzanne Anderson’s book, “The Story of the Plain Brown Wren,” readers will recognize and honor the importance of being different and treating everyone equally. The tale follows a young wren and her birdie friends as they embark on an unexpected journey.
The book's beginning showcases Wren being mocked by her friends for not being as extraordinary as they are. As their play area gets too hot, they go on an expedition to find a cooler place to play but get lost within a dark cave and have to figure out a way to break free. Throughout their dilemma, Anderson illustrates how even though Wren had different characteristics and traits from her fellow birdie friends, she is just as astonishing as they are. With the help of Bible verses, readers will learn valuable lessons about equality and friendship.
I had a chance to interview the author to learn more.
Why is it hard for kids to embrace what makes them unique?
Answer: We all struggle with seeing differences as valuable - both children and adults. The birds are listing their special traits and demean Wren because her gift seems small and useless. Only when Wren has the one and only talent that will save all of the birds do they recognize being unique can be a treasure. And it is because our unique characteristics are valuable, it's a gentle nudge to encourage children to embrace this in themselves and others.
How can caregivers help kids resist comparisons?
Answer; Sharing this story of how the Wren's success using the very thing she was taunted about is a great way for the adult/teacher to generalize the concept to the children hearing the book. Lessons about deciding to celebrate being different before we even start a relationship develops from this story. Seeing the birds embracing the Wren translates easily into the child themselves can do the same with those they meet.
How can caregivers help boost kids' self-esteem?
Answer: Defining and then celebrating what makes one unique is simultaneously celebrating who we are. That positive self-awareness and recognition can nudge the child into actually looking for their unique qualities and then viewing that as a gift. When they can see themselves in this positive light, it is not so hard to see other's differences as positive and to be celebrated. In other words "different" is defined as "giftedness and/or uniqueness" and not to be feared or ashamed of.
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