Alive - by Ilse Krabben (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

"A welcome addition to most nonfiction collections. Like any self-help book, the advice here is subjective and will not resonate with every reader, but there are many who will embrace its affirming messages." - School Library Journal

You probably wonder about life from time to time. Like: why do I have a name? Why are people sometimes unfriendly? Do my parents really love me? Do I have to do something to be good enough? Why do we call the Earth our mother? Why am I alive? And where's my grandfather now that he's gone? One truth does not exist! The answers in this book are open and come from the heart. They invite you to think and feel for yourself, finding your own answers from within.

Learn how to connect with your body, your heart, and nature to find endless wisdom and support. There's more to life than meets the eye!

An honest, gentle, and optimistic book about the mysteries of life. For inquisitive children ages 7 years and up. But also for grown-ups!

Review Quotes

"This uplifting Dutch import seeks to answer big philosophical questions. Encouraging kindness, love, and connections between all things and beings, the narrative is spiritual without adhering to any specific belief system. Pages are devoted to appreciating the natural world, coming to terms with death, and understanding unspoken communication. With so much to ponder, this book may not be intended to be read all in one sitting. A helpful table of contents guides readers toward topics like "What should I do when I feel bored?" and "I'm afraid sometimes. What can I do?" The answers to these questions are sometimes abstract ("Always be as free as a bee") and sometimes practical ("...you can draw or paint your monsters and fears on a large piece of paper... then tell them to go away as you crumple or stomp on them"). Complementing the conceit that the book is authored by "a little kid who had so many questions," lively mixed media illustrations are rendered in a rustic style, as if drawn by a child. Human characters are depicted with a range of skin tones, ages, body types, and physical abilities. One boy, barely a thin white line against a dark blue sky, is like a constellation, wearing no clothes, to express how the universe is within. It's perfectly appropriate. The narrative concludes with a "letter from every child to every parent," which calls adult readers to encourage their child's self-expression. VERDICT A welcome addition to most nonfiction collections. Like any self-help book, the advice here is subjective and will not resonate with every reader, but there are many who will embrace its affirming messages." - School Library Journal

About the Author

Author Ilse Krabben lives in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. She also spends time in France, in the southern countryside where she grew up. Although she started as a theater director and performer, Ilse was drawn to writing too. At first, she wrote columns and later began creating poetry and theater pieces. Additionally, Ilse teaches theater to children. She wants to help children reflect upon what they need, dream about, and feel in this world. Giving children a sense of dignity and safety is Ilse's greatest aspiration.

Illustrator Hedie Meischke enjoyed living a quiet life on a farm in the Eastern Netherlands with her husband and sweet dog. She drew every single day, even after being diagnosed with ALS. Sadly, in 2023, Hedie passed away from the effects of this debilitating illness. Yet her colorful drawings live on, showing people the enormous beauty of life.