What does the word “hero” mean to you? Maybe you think of someone who fights crime, dresses in costume, or someone with an intimidating name. Or maybe you think of someone who saves people, stands up for what is right or acts selflessly. Either way, whether we know it or not, real life heroes and heroines are a big part of history and now we have books that highlight these special people.
National Geographic Kids has compiled a list of real life heroes and heroines and conveys them in a way that is relatable to kids! These hardcover books are aimed at kids aged 8-12, but I did try and discuss them a little with my almost 4-year-old. And my almost 2-year-old enjoyed flipping through the books and looking at all of the colorful pictures.
And something else awesome happened….I enjoyed reading the books myself! History is probably my least favorite subject, but I liked how the book was organized in a way where you could easily read all of the facts about each person. I was familiar with most of the people in the book, but I was introduced to some new heroes and heroines as well! I was also intrigued by many of the men and women in each book and it inspired me to learn more about their stories.
I liked that the books highlighted important people from all genres, backgrounds and categories. Some I had never even thought of as heroes and heroines before…like animals! Yes, there is an animal section and I love it!
Within the Heroes Book, there is a little section that highlights “Gutsy Gals” and within the Heroines Book, there is a “Daring Dudes” section. I think this is an interesting aspect of the books that highlights the importance of each gender.
And my daughter was super excited to see her favorite superhero showcased in the book!
Yep, Wonder Woman! She has a Wonder Woman costume from a couple of Halloweens ago, but she loves putting the costume on sometimes and pretending to save the day!
Another cool thing about the books is that they each end with an “Action Plan”. Basically there are suggestions for kids about simple ways they can be real life heroes and heroines in their own community.
While my kids are still a bit too young to really understand these books, I think they are good to have on hand so I can show them how real life heroes and heroines can be present in our everyday lives.
Overall, I think these books are a great learning tool and educational resources for kids. They are great to keep in your book collection and they would also make great gifts!
What qualities do you look for in a hero or heroine? Try asking your kiddos and see what types of responses you get!
Each book retails for $14.99 and can be found in most bookstores and on Amazon: Book of Heroes and Book of Heroines.
*Disclaimer: I received this product for free from Moms Meet , May Media Group LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer. As a Moms Meet blogger, I have agreed to use this product and post my honest opinion. The opinions posted are my own.
Can’t wait to review the next product!
~SM
The Swag Mama 