When I Use My BRAIN, I Have Much to GAIN.

When I Use My BRAIN,
I Have Much to GAIN.
Written by Bonnie Brown Black
Illustrations by Bonnie Brown Black
 
Bonnie Brown Black’s When I Use My BRAIN, I Have Much to GAIN follows a young girl, Maggie, as she and her friend Zuri turn a stormy day into an imaginative adventure. When thunder rumbles outside, Maggie and Zuri pretend the sounds are roaring lions and decide to build a fort for protection. They creatively problem-solve using household items: sheets, books, and craft supplies, to construct a jungle hideaway, complete with vines, rocks, and even binoculars.

Through teamwork and critical thinking, the girls overcome small obstacles, like keeping their fort from collapsing. They also learn about courage, as their fear of the thunder fades once they feel safe inside their creation. The book ends with a thoughtful reflection on how using one’s brain to problem-solve leads to valuable personal growth.

This book is a delightful and engaging story that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and emotional resilience in young readers. The playful yet realistic dialogue between Maggie and Zuri feels natural, capturing the way children think and express themselves. The storm-as-lions metaphor makes abstract fears more manageable, helping kids understand that fears can be tackled with a creative approach.

The inclusion of a parental guide and open-ended questions is a fantastic addition, offering practical ways to foster critical thinking and confidence-building at home. The book’s underlying message, that problem-solving builds self-confidence and prepares children for future challenges, is both inspiring and educational.

With its charming illustrations and interactive approach, When I Use My BRAIN, I Have Much to GAIN is an excellent choice for parents, educators, and caregivers looking to nurture creativity and independent thinking in children.

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