“We know life is hard, and sometimes you need advice. We also know that no matter how hard life gets, it gets better and you can’t ever give up. You could be missing out on a lot of experiences. Always keep in mind that not everything is entirely perfect in life. That’s alright, that makes us human. So don’t be so hard on yourself, the world needs you.” — Editorial Board, What If The World Needs You?
We’re overjoyed to share with you 826 Boston’s newest publication, What If The World Needs You? Advice and Life Lessons from 826 Boston Students.
This new Young Authors’ Book Project publication features nearly 70 students and more than 90 original stories that share important pieces of advice. From reimagined Greek myths to quirky advice columns, this anthology offers wisdom and whimsy, all crafted by kids for kids (and adults, too).
“[This book] explores various scenarios, such as struggling with schoolwork, loneliness, new friendships, tough family dynamics, and learning new skills,” the student editorial board explains at the beginning of the book. “Some pieces are fun and silly, while others are serious. You may feel sadness, joy, grief, jealousy, curiosity, and many other emotions. We hope that, by reading our stories and hearing how our writers and characters deal with their situations, you may learn how to solve your own problems by listening to the writers. Remember: knowledge is a tool, so never pass up an opportunity to learn and grow.”
Thanks to our generous partner, Nosy Crow, you can now listen to professional audio recordings of select stories from the book! Grab your headphones and get ready to be transported to incredible worlds created by 826 Boston students. Listen here.
Every book deserves a release party, and that’s exactly what we did! Last month, students and families celebrated the release of the book at GrubStreet. A few students from the Editorial Board emceed the event, sharing the process of creating, editing, and finalizing this anthology, and also did a live reading.
Boston Globe columnist Meredith Goldstein, who also wrote the foreward to this book, shared that as an advice columnist herself, she often turns to books to help find solutions to life’s tricky situations—and she couldn’t be more excited to have a new book to help offer her so many wonderful pieces of advice. Meredith also gave a sneak peek of a new Love Letters podcast episode, featuring 826 Boston students sharing some fantastic life lessons (more to come on that soon)!
Attendees also shared their favorite pieces of advice, enjoyed ice cream, and were among the first to hear the audio narration stories!
A special thanks to GrubStreet for sharing their space, to J.P. Licks for donating the ice cream, and to everyone who attended and cheered on the students as they celebrated all of these students of bringing their magical stories to life!
Photos by Mike Mejia
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