POST FALLS, Idaho – A group of young kids enjoyed a sunny Saturday morning listening to adventurous stories that reinforced character strengths like courage, fortitude, and honesty. The local event was part of an annual See You at the Library national gathering where thousands of families across the country meet at their public libraries for storytelling with Brave Books.
Three family men participated as story readers, bringing books about bears, cheetahs, pirates, and surfers alive to their audiences in small groups clustered on the Post Falls Library lawn.
Matt Edwards, a father of three, read Little Lives Matter by Elizabeth Johnston and More Than Spots & Stripes by the Hodgetwins. In the first story, Mobi learns about the value of life. In the second, the Hodgetwins crafted an engaging story about a racing cheetah named Rebel.
“It’s really important to read to children and promote good moral character.” shared Edwards. He thinks there is a lack of instruction in both honesty and integrity in public spaces. “I believe men need to be more present in their community and to be good role models for kids.”
Today’s Christian Country Radio host Glen Campbell read Fame, Blame, and the Raft of Shame by Dan Crenshaw, as well as The Island of Free Ice Cream by Jack Posobiec. Being the grandfather of sixteen precious souls has given Campbell a deep appreciation for the imaginative and uplifting content in Brave Books. The morals within the books he selected focused on contentment, mercy, and forgiveness.
U.S. Army Veteran Don Bradway has five grandchildren and said he loves to read to kids. Bradway shared a lively rendition of Surfing Past Fear by Bethany Hamilton. After which he told his rapt audience, “You can overcome difficulties!” Then he asked them, “What’s most important?”
“Never give up!” responded a young girl with excitement.
His second story was Son of Truth by Graham Allen, about a tiger named Valor. The book is part of an adventure series that comes with a map, missions, games, and stickers.
According to information on its website, Brave Books was founded in 2021 by Dr. Trent Talbot, who was a practicing ophthalmologist before becoming a father and embarking on a journey to create a new brand of books. “Our mission is to be the brand parents trust with their children’s imaginations by creating a world, characters, and stories that not only enthrall them but build their character while doing so.” Kirk Cameron, Missy Robertson, and Kevin Sorbo are three well-known authors who have collaborated with Brave Books.
Tom Hanley, one of the library’s trustee, attended the event hosted by Clean Books 4 Kids at the Post Falls Library. “I am pleased to see CLN staff opened the campus to the hosting group,” shared Hanely. “As a trustee, I am doing my best to encourage books that are wholesome.”
The newest member of the CLN board, Karen Campbell, watched her husband Glen reading to the children. “I’m excited to attend a wonderful event for children to enjoy storytime with books on character,” stated Campbell.
