“What do you do with an idea?” - Kobi Yamada, Mae Besom
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“What do you do with an idea?” - Kobi Yamada, Mae Besom
Language of book for review:
English - “What do you do with an idea?”
Published also in:
German - “Was macht man mit einer Idee?”
Brazilian Portuguese - “O Que Você Faz Com Uma Ideia?”
European Portuguese - “O que Fazer com uma Ideia?”
“What Do You Do with an Idea?” is a beautifully crafted children’s book that transcends age, delivering a timeless message about creativity, courage, and the power of nurturing one’s thoughts. This story follows a young child who encounters a small, fragile idea—depicted as a golden, egg-like figure with a crown—and grapples with what to do with it.
The narrative unfolds with poetic simplicity, capturing the uncertainty and vulnerability that often accompany new ideas. The child initially hesitates, fearing judgment or failure, but gradually learns to embrace and protect this idea, allowing it to grow. Yamada’s text is sparse yet profound, posing reflective questions that invite readers to consider their own relationship with creativity: “What do ideas become? Big things, brave things, forever things?”
Mae Besom’s artwork is a perfect complement, blending soft pencil sketches with bursts of color that emerge as the idea flourishes. The muted tones of the early pages give way to vibrant hues, visually mirroring the journey from doubt to confidence. Her whimsical style adds a layer of wonder, making the abstract concept of an “idea” feel tangible and alive.
This book is more than a children’s tale—it’s a gentle nudge for readers of all ages to trust their imagination and take risks. It’s an ideal read-aloud for classrooms or bedtime, sparking conversations about self-belief and innovation. While its brevity might leave some wanting more, its open-ended nature is also its strength, encouraging personal interpretation.
In essence, “What Do You Do with an Idea?” is a quiet triumph—a celebration of the human spirit’s capacity to dream and create. It’s a reminder that ideas, when tended to, can indeed change the world.
