Best books about wisdom for kids are often packed with valuable life lessons, but books that focus on wisdom go a step further. They teach young readers to approach life’s ups and downs with a balanced mind and a caring heart. Nels Hanson’s poetry book, What the Lizard Said, is a shining example of this kind of literature.
Each poem introduces a new animal, each with a unique perspective to share with Wise Dog and Jimmi. As they meet these characters, young readers get a chance to see the world through different eyes, discovering lessons that encourage thoughtfulness, resilience, and kindness.
Why Kids Need Books About Wisdom?
Today’s world can be fast-paced and overwhelming, even for kids. They encounter new ideas and challenges all the time. Books about wisdom don’t just entertain—they equip young readers with insights to navigate their lives with confidence and compassion.
Stories like those in What the Lizard Said offer children relatable characters and situations that help them develop emotional intelligence. They learn to pause, think, and approach each situation from different perspectives, preparing them for the real world.
Animals as Teachers: Learning Through Nature
Kids naturally connect with animals, and when animals serve as guides in stories, they provide wisdom in a way that feels accessible and exciting. In Hanson’s book, animals from various habitats bring their own unique lessons to Wise Dog and Jimmi, each highlighting a different approach to life.
For instance, an animal might teach the importance of patience, while another stresses adaptability. Kids learn that every creature, big or small, has its own strengths, and by extension, they realize they have their own strengths, too. This approach shows young readers that nature is full of wisdom and that sometimes, the best advice can come from the most unexpected sources.
Seeing Life’s Challenges as Opportunities
One of the most valuable lessons books about wisdom teach is how to view challenges not as setbacks but as opportunities for growth. In What the Lizard Said, Wise Dog and Jimmi encounter various obstacles, but each one leads them to a new understanding. This encourages children to see their own problems from a new angle. Instead of feeling frustrated, they learn to ask, “What can I learn from this?” This mindset helps kids develop resilience, patience, and a positive attitude—qualities that are key to lifelong success.
Building Empathy Through Diverse Perspectives
Books that explore wisdom often feature characters with different backgrounds, experiences, or viewpoints. Hanson’s book about wisdom for kids introduces animals from all walks of life, each with unique perspectives. When children read about these characters, they’re encouraged to think about how others feel, building empathy and compassion. They realize that everyone has their own journey, and understanding this can lead to better relationships and a stronger sense of community.
Why What the Lizard Said is Worth a Read?
For parents seeking the best books about wisdom for kids that blend entertainment with life lessons, Nels Hanson’s What the Lizard Said is a gem. Through vivid poetry and engaging characters, Hanson crafts a journey that is as thought-provoking as it is heartwarming. Each page is a gentle reminder that wisdom is all around us—if we just take a moment to listen.
So, if you’re looking for a book that doesn’t just tell a story but imparts valuable lessons, consider picking up What the Lizard Said. It’s a journey of discovery that might just inspire your child to approach life with curiosity, compassion, and, of course, a little bit of wisdom.
