What Do You Do With a Problem?

 

What Do You Do With a Problem?  by Kobi Yamada and Mae Besom

This book is for children and adults alike who have ever had a problem.  As I read it for the first time it really struck a cord.  I have a problem right now that I am about to tackle and I am really nervous about it.  As I read this book I totally related and therefore it has already won over a very special place in my heart.  The insight that Kobi Yamada has into how people can feel about problems is incredible and he has a real gift for explaining it in a way that is simple enough for a child to understand.   I cannot wait until my kiddos are a bit older and I can start using it to teach them about problem solving.

It is about a little boy who has a problem.  A problem that looms over him in the symbolic shape of a dark cloud.  He worries and worries about his problem and tries to hide and ignore it.  However, it only gets bigger and bigger.  Eventually he decides that he has lived with the fear long enough and chooses to do something about it.  He prepares and though he is still afraid he tackles his problem head on.  Then something wonderful happens.  He learns that hidden inside of every problem is an opportunity.  Even if that opportunity is as simple as a chance to do something brave and become stronger.

I love this book!  I love how it never gives specifics about what the problem is exactly so that it is more easily relatable to all readers.  I love how all the colors are dark and muted until the problem becomes something wonderful and the pages are filled with glowing yellows and oranges to show the brilliance of the moment.  I love how this book is comforting and encouraging at the same time.  This is a poignant book out to make a difference.

Click here to purchase What Do You Do With a Problem?  

Looking for reviews on the rest of the series (“What Do You Do With an Idea” and “What Do You Do With a Chance?”)  as well as companion journalling activities with free printables?  FIND THEM HERE!