Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite

Being the Change in the World is a self-help book written by Tracy Bryan, aimed at lowering anxiety in children. Written for young readers, it deals with the state of the world today, and how current events might lead a child to be sad, worried or afraid. These feelings become much worse when those current events pose a potential threat towards family and loved ones, with the child feeling helpless, unable to make things better or protect the people they love. With relaxation techniques and meditation instructions included, a child's anxiety level can decrease significantly, helping to clear their mental focus. This method is called mindfulness. It embodies love, kindness, empathy and forgiveness in a world which can often seem intolerant and unforgiving.

The positivity which this book emits is incredible. While the world is focused on all of the evil happening around them, not much thought is given to what might be going through a child’s mind, or how they might be processing these events. Tracy Bryan’s insightful book encourages calm in the children who are witnessing more than we might think, and who are scared of what the future holds. The language used throughout the book is easy to understand, and the vivid colors emit a serenity which is very much needed right now. I would definitely buy a book such as this for my own child, or for any child who is feeling the pain and the burden of their perceived future, if for no other reason than to give them a sense of hope. All children need to know that they are loved, cared for, and can make a difference, which brings positivity into another person’s world. I applaud the thought, effort and message which Being the Change in the World brings, and recommend it to younger audiences in the hope of instilling calm in a perceived world of insanity.