New Book Can Make Your Child a Better Person

(PressMediaWire) - With the launch of educational websites and software, more kids are being taught that volunteering and teamwork are important. But is it working?

J.A. Osowski, author of the new children’s book The Ant with Red Pants, says that lessons taught through visual and print media absolutely work in teaching kids the right principles about giving back. He says his own book is having an impact in the schools and libraries where he gives readings.

“My book centers on Andrew, an ant who feels as though his legs are too skinny to be an effective worker ant,” says Mr. Osowski. “He makes red pants out of a spider’s web and some red berries in order to hide them, but he sets aside his fears when he realizes that the colony needs him to pitch in.”

According to Mr. Osowski, The Ant with Red Pants is receiving praise from educators looking for ways to teach their students about self-esteem, teamwork and volunteerism.

“There really is a place for stories like these,” says Mr. Osowski. “The stories we tell our kids and the games we have them play do have an effect on how they view the world and can have a positive effect on what they do for their communities.”

Mr. Osowski’s book, illustrated by Michael and Alicia Smith, also teaches:

The power of peer pressure to shape the way we think about ourselves
The importance of community leadership
How being unique is a good thing
What it means for a community when everyone gets involved.

Joseph A. Osowski resides in eastern Connecticut with his wife, Ann Marie. They have two grown children and two grandchildren. Drawing from his own experiences, he hopes to build children’s confidence as they try to fit in with their peers in today’s society.

Illustrators Michael and Alicia Smith reside in eastern Connecticut with their two children, a boy and a girl. Michael works part-time and cares for their son, who has special needs. Alicia is an elementary-level art teacher in the town of Ledyard.

(The Ant with Red Pants by J.A. Osowski; ISBN: 1-59971-974-6; $15.95; 28 pages;

8” x 10”; hardcover; Baltic Books)