Recently, through The Old Schoolhouse magazine I had the opportunity to read the book by Inspiring the American Dream which was called Abraham’s Journey: A Celebration of the American Dream, by Robert and Kathleen Basmadjian. I love to read, especially children’s books so I was pleased at the prospect.
I can honestly say I haven’t read a book quite like it, and I have read a lot of books. It was the epitome of “The American Dream”, but at a child’s level. It takes place now, during the recession and despite the fact my children know that we have not had a lot of extra money in the last few years and that quite honestly we almost lost our home, they haven’t heard the term the Great Recession.
My own parents were children during the Great Depression and I believe it is very important for children to learn about difficult times like these, as one day they will be the ones running our country and hopefully be making changes for the better. This fictional story line presents the issues we currently have and presents inspiration for making things better for our future as well as that of future generations.
The main character in the story, Abraham, is on the search to make his family’s Christmas a happy one despite the fact that they have no money for gifts. On his journey he meets up with important figures from the past such as Abraham Lincoln, Dr. Martin Luther King, and Amelia Earhart. Present day figures were also included in his journey with Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg. All of them were people that had made a difference in the world, past and present, by following their dreams. Through the meetings he learned that with kindness, creativity, imagination, strength and courage he could overcome any obstacle that came his way. From what he learned, Abraham was able to make the money he needed to buy presents for his family for Christmas.
This would be a great book for children ages 8-12, it explains our current economic situation in very basic terms but the book brings about hope that all is not lost. The only thing that bothered me about the book was the fact that Abraham had a smart phone despite his parents not having a job. The phone did become the "window" though, into him becoming inspired. My 11 year old daughter read it to her 13 year old brother who has special needs. I believe it was very appropriate for their individual learning levels.
This book is sold at their website for 14.99.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this product through the Schoolhouse Review Crew in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.
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