The Carousel Kids by Laran Woods
Laran Woods crafted a joyful and insightful children’s book that shines with color. The Carousel Kids is a story that is more than meets the eye; on the surface, it’s a story about a group of kiddos riding a fun carousel at the zoo, but when you look closer and read between the lines, you will see that this book is a celebration of beauty, individuality and diversity.
This book is an important yet playful reminder that it’s our differences that make us special, and when we embrace that fact, it brings everyone closer.
A Whimsical Ride That Reflects Real-Life Diversity
The book starts on a fun sunny day where six kids on a zoo adventure come across a unique and whimsical carousel, unlike any one they have ever seen before. Where you would typically see horses that all look the same, this carousel is bursting with variety: a tiger, unicorn, polar bear, elephant, goose and black stallion.
As each child picks their unique steed, they are filled with joy and awe. Their experience on this wild carousel becomes a metaphor for their own individuality and uniqueness; just like the animals surrounding the carousel, each kiddo is different from the other in looks, talents and personality.
From Playful to Profound: The Deeper Meaning Behind the Carousel
Author Laran Woods uses the carousel as a literal and metaphorical symbol that is very clever. At first glance, you are thinking this story is a cute tale of friends spending a day at the zoo — but just like the best children’s book, it has layers.
On the surface level, it’s a fun, vibrant, and whimsical carousel bringing children happiness but on a deeper level, you find that the carousel is meant to symbolize humanity itself. Each animal is diverse (some of the mythical variety), but they come together in harmony. Every animal comes from a different climate, environment and background, yet are able to co-exist, just like people from different cultures and identities can.
The moral lesson that is found in this book is shown gently, but that doesn’t make it any less significant. The quote “It was our differences that made us feel happy being together” captures the essence of the book’s heart in one powerful sentence.
Teaching Acceptance Through Art, Animals and Adventure
The Carousel Kids isn’t just a story; it also doubles as a workbook and is meant to be used as an educational resource.
After finishing the main story, you will find comprehensive lessons that expand the theme and plot in a range of different subjects. The children are encouraged to draw, write their own poems, solve math problems and discover facts about animals. All these elements put together make this the perfect book to have in your classroom.
The Carousel Kids by Laran Woods is a vibrant and whimsical book that brings fun and education together in equal measure. Woods transports children to a world filled with imagination and acceptance, where a child of any age, color or background can see themselves and know they have value.
Most importantly, this book is a joyous reminder that when we embrace and respect our diversity and differences, we make the world a beautiful place.
About Laran Woods:
Laran Woods grew up in picturesque Westchester County, New York surrounded by nature, and her family which included her beloved cats and dogs. Being an only child raised by teachers, Laran was encouraged to spend a lot of time entertaining herself by telling imaginative stories. Her teachers at school flattered her by saying they couldn’t wait to finish class and read her next story. At last, Laran has acted on that passion for animals and writing by sharing her stories and self-designed activities with children by becoming a published author. Being a retired teacher now with over twenty years of experience in public education enabled her to not just bring her creativity to life but to also share her classroom spiritual values – an appreciation for one another’s differences makes the world an amazing and beautiful place.
