<p><b>Kids learn the ABCs of belonging and expand their view of themselves and their community.</b></p><p><i>B Is for Belonging</i> uses the ABCs as an accessible framework to explore the importance of belonging. Understanding and learning about belonging helps kids boost their self-confidence, build positive relationships, and foster empathy and inclusion.</p><p>"<b>Aa. </b>When you <b>accept</b> other people without judging them or asking them to change, you help them know that they belong. <b>Bb. </b>When you are welcomed and loved exactly as you are, you feel that you <b>belong</b>."</p><p>Making a distinction between "belonging" and "fitting in," <i>B Is for Belonging</i> empowers kids to show acceptance for others and themselves and create communities of belonging. With an uplifting and positive tone, this book shares the power and joy of belonging.</p><p>A section at the back of the book includes discussion questions and activity ideas.</p>
<p><b>Shannon Anderson</b> is an award-winning children's book author, TEDx speaker, and national presenter. She loves to do author visits to teach the power of reading, writing, and learning with a growth mindset. Shannon taught for 25 years from first grade through college level, where she wore the hats of literacy coach, gifted coordinator, and adjunct professor. She lives in Indiana. You can learn more about her and her books at www.shannonisteaching.com.</p><br><p><b>John Joven</b> is an illustrator and a painter from Colombia. He lives there with his wife, Ana, and two children, Avril and Ian. He is fortunate enough to work in his home studio, where he can share his passion for drawing and painting with his children while working on projects. He started drawing at an early age and when he was six years old his parents enrolled him in his first painting, sculpture, and character design class. When not illustrating, he enjoys spending time with his family, playing soccer with friends, watching movies, reading, writing, and traveling. He has had the opportunity to bring to life characters, scenes, and diverse worlds in magazines and newspapers; funny ideas in children's books; and animation projects around the globe.</p>
<p>"Shannon Anderson has written quite possibly the most important ABC book your child will ever read. <i>B Is for Belonging</i> encourages children to become more empathetic, more loving, and more aware of their ability to make others feel accepted and heard. I believe this picture book should be in every classroom and in every home. I can't wait to share this beautifully illustrated and thoughtfully written children's book with all the littles in my world."</p>
