I Am Somebody

The Bible has many places teaching children about taking responsibilities, including how we act toward others (Luke 10:30-37), how we treat our families (1 Tim. 5:8), and how we pursue justice (Micah 6:8). In reality, a child’s daily encounters also present lessons to speak up or to care about fairness.

A young girl with a school bag walks to the bus stop. She notices trash scattered around on the ground. “Somebody should do something about that,” a little voice arises from inside her. Then the school bus arrives. She notices a line and two children begin pushing each other, fighting for the best seats. The little voice says again, “Somebody should speak up about that.” A kid is mocked for bringing ethnic food, a gym helper only hands out equipment to his own friends, other kids did not bring snacks from home and are left out of snack time.

Throughout this day, this girl faces many moments when she feels that “somebody” should do something about situations of chaos, unfairness, and meanness. She finally decides to rise to the occasion by being that “somebody.” By sharing snacks with other kids and helping her mom clean up toys left by her younger siblings, she begins to act as if she is that somebody.

This book teaches children that real change starts with you. It will also take time and patience. “People need to remember to stop, slow down, and care for others.” Even children can become new leaders in the movement for change. (RP Kids).