“Breaking our silence is powerful. Whether it comes as a whisper or a squeak at first, allow that sense of spaciousness, of opening; allow yourself to trust the bottomlessness, and lean into the dark roar which will light up every cell.” – Lucy H. Pearce
We all have a voice that speaks our truth. Sometimes that voice is buried down deep and barely squeaks as life goes on around us. For many of us, our voice becomes bolder as we grow in confidence and experience.
The stories in this collection are full of wonderful characters whose trials and successes cause their voices to emerge. We cheer as we watch them become fully themselves. Best of all, we gain empathy and understanding for the real people in our lives who are finding their voices, too. Enjoy!
Below you’ll find books, activities, and resources that are appropriate for various ages around the concept of “Find Your Voice”.
What’s In A Voice?
– Beth H, NEW BOOK JOY Guest Contributor
Readings & Resources
SEARCH BY GRADE LEVEL…
BIRTH – AGE 3
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
1ST – 2ND GRADE
3RD – 5TH GRADE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
HIGH SCHOOL
Food for Thought
Additional Articles from our Favorite Authors
The Swag Is In Your Voice
– Kelly J. Baptist, NEW BOOK JOY Guest Contributor
Bridging Books & Art
There is nothing better than creating images in your mind, while reading. It is almost like experiencing a movie, while getting immersed in a novel! Not only does it help you feel closer to the characters, but helps you become more excited about what is going to happen next. Talk about a great way to build your own suspense!
Art is also a wonderful connection with reading because it can help you get more attuned with the book’s topics or themes.
You have the opportunity to look at something visual and ponder about what the reading adventure will offer. You have the opportunity to make various connections between what you see in the piece of art and what you read in the book.
We’re excited to include a piece of art with each theme, in order for families to enjoy something visual along with their reading conversations and experiences!
NOW HIGHLIGHTING
Find Your Voice by Rob Moriarty
For the Find Your Voice theme, our friend, Rob, created this thoughtful piece of artwork.
“Your voice is an expression of your authenticity. It is pen on paper, paint on canvas, bodies moving to the beat, words spoken with meaning, it is the place where your experiences and creativity rise and collide with the world. Your voice fills the space between you and those who can hear you. Singing together is an act of love and solidarity.”
Rob Moriarty is an artist and a teacher. He has been teaching the Visual Arts in Berwyn and Cicero since 1998, and was named Illinois Art Education Association’s Secondary Art Educator of the Year in 2019. Sometimes he makes public art, which can be found on www.evlove.org. Sometimes he posts things on Instagram @evloverob. Follow along for more artistic inspiration!
Family Activity
As an English teacher, I stumble across students who look at a piece of art and move on. They do not always pause and question. They only see what is on the surface, but do not dive into the visual experience.
When I have my students analyze a piece of art, I have them answer a series of questions, in order for the picture to be more than just random shapes and colors. The questions may focus on the visual aspect, as well as the story and/or tone. When teens take time to ponder and see the painting, everything comes alive!
It is easy to glance at a picture, but not take time to notice its beauty and meaning. Sure, it takes extra time to pause and answer questions about the picture, but questioning helps with awareness, curiosity, and wonderment.
Video Connection
Watch this YouTube video and discuss the following questions: Because Maddie found her voice and made a difference, how was she recognized and celebrated? Do you think she deserved the acknowledgement? Explain.
What are some different ways kids can find their voice and make a difference?
FOR FULL ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL READINGS, RESOURCES & ACTIVITIES, CHECK OUT OUR FAMILY BOOK CLUB subscription BOXES…
– Connie O & Mandy G, NEW BOOK JOY Founders
Conversation
What books inspire YOU & your family to find your voice?
Let’s get a conversation started in the comments below!