A Little Braver, A Little Brighter

Sometimes confidence begins with one small try.

A Little Braver, a Little Brighter is a warm, encouraging story about Maya, a creative child with many ideas who sometimes finds it difficult to put those ideas into words or know where to begin.

With the patient support of her grandmother, Oma, Maya learns that problems do not always have one right answer. She can slow down, draw her ideas, take one step at a time, ask for help, listen to others, test a solution, and try again.

From losing count while helping in the kitchen to designing and rebuilding a shelter for tiny garden plants, each challenge gives Maya another opportunity to discover what works for her.

As Maya's confidence grows, the illustrations gradually move from black-and-white into full color - reflecting the way her world becomes a little brighter with every accomplishment.

This story celebrates:
• Creativity and curiosity
• Problem-solving and perseverance
• Collaboration and communication
• Everyday life skills
• Learning through mistakes and trying again
• Finding different ways to share an idea
• The confidence that grows from small successes

Inspired by author and STEM teacher Mirja Montgomery's own childhood experiences, A Little Braver, a Little Brighter is a gentle reminder that children do not all think, communicate, or learn in exactly the same way - and that sometimes a little patience and another approach can make all the difference.

Perfect for parents, grandparents, teachers, and children in Kindergarten through Third Grade, this story makes a thoughtful read-aloud for home, classrooms, libraries, and conversations about confidence, persistence, creativity, and believing in your own ideas.

US Edition
By Mirja Montgomery