Author(s): Casey Bruning

Picture Books | Canberra and featured authors

This engaging, uplifting and positive book, When I Grow Up, I Will Shine, explores a young girl thinking about who she is as a person and who she wants to be when she grows up. There are a series of statements followed by reflective questions designed to be thought-provoking and entice a response, especially the last one. A range of personal characteristics and behaviours are covered, including being kind, caring for the Earth and continuing to learn.

When I grow up, I will be kind. How are you kind?

When I grow up, I will take care of the Earth. How do you take care of the Earth?

When I grow up, I will continue to learn. What do you want to learn?

A powerful message of self-identity and belief that builds confidence and makes it OK to be yourself and shine. Determining who you want to be is in your control regardless of your circumstances.

It offers an alternative narrative to the typical question children are asked: What do you want to be when you grow up? The qualities you have as a person are way more important than the job you have.

Parents and caregivers can use the questions to better understand their child and spark meaningful and important conversations.

This is an empowering message for children and adults alike. Will you shine?