Empowering Young Hearts: The Transformative Power of Animal Stories
Empowering Young Hearts: The Transformative Power of Animal Stories
A guest post by Justin Barker
Today’s post is brought to you by my fellow Substacker and friend Justin Barker of The Most. Trying to create more connection amidst the chaos of parenting, Justin, a San Francisco-based TV producer, author, and papa of two decided to embark on a yearlong mission to make play, good stories, and creativity part of every day.
He also has a unique history — more below — which made him the perfect person to write a guest post for Can we read? focusing on books that encourage kindness to animals.
Here’s Justin.
Some thirty years ago, at just 12 years old, a dusty old book on animal rights landed in my hands, and it turned my world upside down. I can still picture myself sitting on the stained beanbag at the used bookstore, my heart racing as I read about the plight of animals in our food system and in captivity. Inspired, I didn’t just embrace vegetarianism — I launched a local animal rights group, Citizens Lobbying for Animals in Zoos. It was as if I had discovered a part of myself that had been waiting to be unleashed.
This newfound passion led me to Ursula and Brutus, two sibling black bears trapped in a cramped cage just miles from my home. I could hardly believe that these magnificent creatures were living in such conditions. Determined to free them, I poured every ounce of energy into my mission, spending three years rallying against city hall, raising $250,000, and doing everything I could to improve their lives. The sleepless nights and countless TV appearances were worth it when I finally saw the bears relocated to a spacious sanctuary where they could live with dignity.
My memoir, Bear Boy, captures this transformative journey and illustrates how my mission to help those bears also set me free. In the process, I discovered a profound truth: young people can indeed make a difference. I found my voice — a voice that has shaped my life ever since.
As a dad of two — Noah, who is 5, and Uma, who is almost 3 — I truly understand the transformative power of books in shaping our family’s values and experiences. The privilege of being an author allows me to witness firsthand the profound impact storytelling can have on lives.
I’ve received letters from around the world, but one heartfelt message from a family in Australia particularly moved me. Winsome, the mother, shared how reading Bear Boy together profoundly influenced their family dynamic. Her daughter, Abigail, who had met Dr. Jane Goodall, was so inspired by the story that she convinced her dad to adopt Rocky, a rescued greyhound who now joyfully runs through their home. It’s moments like these that remind me of the deep connections we forge through shared stories, as well as the positive changes they can inspire in our lives.
For me, teaching my kids to care for animals goes beyond animal welfare; it’s about cultivating a more compassionate world. Children have an instinctive love and curiosity for animals, and when we nurture that bond, we equip them with tools for understanding empathy, respect, and responsibility. I see it every day in my own kids — the way their eyes light up when they play shadow tag with curious ravens on the beach or when they gently pick up a rolly-polly under an upturned rock. Those moments are precious, shaping how they perceive and interact with the world.
When children learn to treat animals with gentleness, respect their space, and appreciate their unique behaviors, they lay a foundation for kindness that reaches far beyond the animal kingdom. Books that celebrate and explore the vibrant world of animals unlock new realms for young readers, helping them recognize that, despite our differences, we share this planet and a deep connection with all living beings.
My children light up with excitement as we dive into our favorite stories, which often spark meaningful conversations about the importance of caring for, protecting, and honoring the individuality of every creature. These moments not only enrich their understanding but also nurture a lasting empathy that will shape their interactions with the world around them.
As a child, books like Kids Can Save the Animals ignited a spark within me, inspiring action and instilling a profound belief that I could truly make a difference. I long to pass that same sense of empowerment onto my children. By nurturing their connections with animals from an early age, we’re shaping future adults who are not only sensitive and thoughtful but also responsible stewards of the world. It’s the kind of world I envision—one where kindness knows no bounds, and every living creature is cherished and valued.
That’s a vision worth investing in, one book and one heartfelt conversation at a time.
Books that encourage kindness to animals:
For 0-2 years old
Hello Hello by Brendan Wenzel: A beautifully illustrated book introducing Earth’s endangered creatures while celebrating the diversity of the animal world.
Bird House by Blanca Gómez: A tender story about a grandmother and grandchild caring for an injured bird, teaching kindness and the beauty of letting go.
2-4 years old
Our Animal Neighbors by Matthieu Ricard: This book champions compassion, advocating for vegetarianism and responsibility toward all of Earth’s creatures.
4-8 years old
Hubert the Pudge: A Vegetarian Tale by Henrik Drescher: A charming tale that encourages children to think about food choices and how they impact animals and the environment.
The Capybaras by Alfredo Soderguit: A delightful story about capybaras that explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of community.
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate: A moving tale about a gorilla named Ivan who lives in a mall and dreams of freedom, showcasing kindness and animal welfare.
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White: A classic story about the friendship between Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider, exploring loyalty and the value of life.
8-12 years old
Unlocking the Animal World: Incredible Facts and How Kids Can Be Superheroes for Animals by Ingrid Newkirk: This book reveals amazing animal facts, showcasing their intelligence and emotions while inspiring kids to be advocates for animals.
12+ years old
Bear Boy: The True Story of a Boy, Two Bears, and the Fight to Be Free by Justin Barker: This young-adult memoir, praised by Jane Goodall, follows my quest to help two black bears languishing at a roadside zoo.
Amanda the Teen Activist: Feathers & Freedom by Catherine Kelaher: Amanda Cotter finds herself hiding on an egg farm in Australia. Can this 13-year-old activist prove she can make a difference for factory-farmed hens, or will her efforts lead to trouble?
Animalkind: Remarkable Discoveries About Animals and Revolutionary New Ways to Show Them Compassion by Ingrid Newkirk: This bestselling book by PETA President Ingrid Newkirk and Gene Stone uncovers the fascinating lives of animals, showing their intelligence and empathy while inspiring compassion.
Sarah!! Thank you for letting me share my story and some of our favorite books!!!