I cannot seem to remember the last time that I actually wrote a book review. Was it middle school? Elementary school? However long ago that it was, here I am again: Deciding to dust-off my book review skills for the first time since kids still rocked snap bracelets; fanny packs (back in fashion now, I may add) and ate Dunkaroos after school. I really did not set out to write a book review this month, to be honest, but by the time I finished reading the book, I Wish for Change: Unleashing the Power of Kids to Make a Difference, by Ms. Kyle Schwartz (2019)–an elementary school teacher in Denver, Colorado–I just knew that I had to share a few of my own thoughts and reflections.

Have you ever read a book and found yourself saying some sample iteration of, “yep; yes!–agree 100%–or, this is the book I wish I would have written!”? Well, if you ever have, then it might give you a little bit of an idea of my thoughts and feelings after reading Schwartz’s student-centered and young-person-empowering book. Not only does Schwartz share an abundance of inspiring stories from her own students (and other school-aged students around the world) doing incredible, impactful things, but she also is not afraid to share mistakes made and lessons learned throughout her years in the classroom.

There’s a certain vulnerability and honesty that Schwartz writes with that is both refreshing and encouraging. I Wish for Change is also a book that is very much substance over fluff; Schwartz tangibly charts specific ways, pathways, and roadmaps for how educators and young people can usher in the power of making a difference. Schwartz does not just tell students that they can make a real difference–she shows them exactly how they can make a difference–even at the youngest of ages–while also helping students navigate their way through various systems of adult power structures and the occasional dismissiveness that grown-ups are sometimes guilty of meting out to youngsters. What is more, while there is a certain thoughtful cohesiveness to key themes throughout this book, this is a book that is neither repetitive nor high-brow in nature.

In I Wish for Change, Schwartz shows us all that is doesn’t matter how old (or young) a person is: they can make a lasting change (and difference). Not just the cute, temporary feel-good things, either, that students can do–but the actual ushering-in of high-level, permanent change in their communities (and sometimes even globally). This, of course, may not surprise many of us though who know that lasting, meaningful change, historically, often has come from younger people–but it’s a good reminder, to be sure, that young people are capable of doing so much, if only we adults would come alongside them to help them facilitate change (or at least not stand in their ways).

Broken up into twelve chapters, and checking in at a brisk, manageable 214 pages, I Wish for Change is a book that is  both to-the-point, and, if you’re not careful, is also a work of literary goodness that you may find yourself finishing in a couple, or few, day’s time–it’s that good.

Woven amidst the numerous, wonderful stories of courageous and impactful students–and sprinkled with helpful tips throughout–are heart-warming, hand-written student wish-notes for imaging a better future world–a world in which our young people will be helping to usher in, as we speak.

Standout chapters include: a chapter on belonging (Chapter 3); a later chapter about giving students choices (Chapter 9); and even a chapter about helping student find their right balance of assertiveness (Chapter 12). But please note: Simply stated, there is not a bad, or dull, chapter to be found amidst the pages of I Wish for Change.

Still, don’t necessarily take my word for it. I have purposely kept this book review rather brief because I believe it is, ultimately, better for the reader to investigate for themselves. Just be prepared, however, to be moved, encouraged, and inspired when you do decide to read ‘I Wish for Change, and as you continue your on-going work with your own students, or the young people in your life, to make this world a better place for all of us. I Wish for Change may be just the right jet fuel-like source of inspiration that we all need in times like these today.

–The Blue-Collar Counselor