Okay, so you know how kids sometimes describe their bodies in the most hilariously random ways? Well, imagine that turned into an actual book. That's The Best Part of Me by Wendy Ewald, and it is pure gold.
Ewald is this brilliant photographer who works with children in some seriously interesting ways. She doesn't just point and shoot. She collaborates with kids, letting them decide what matters most about themselves.
How It All Started
The book began as a photography project with real children aged 6 to 16. Ewald asked each kid one simple question: "What's the best part of you?" Their answers became captions alongside gorgeous black-and-white photos.
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The responses? Absolutely wild. One child nailed it as their elbow. Another kid picked their toes. Somebody else said their eyebrows. Adults would totally overthink this. Kids just know.
The whole concept flips the script on how grown-ups talk about bodies. Meanwhile, children are out here celebrating the quirkiest, most random features imaginable. Honestly, they make way more sense than we do.
Why Photographs Hit Different
Ewald's photos are shot in black and white, which gives everything this timeless, almost dreamy quality. The lighting is soft. The framing feels intimate.
The Best Of Me Book Cover
Each portrait zooms in on that chosen feature, making it look surprisingly beautiful. Suddenly, an elbow becomes art. A crooked smile becomes a masterpiece.
The contrast between the plain photos and the adorable captions creates something magical. Kids say things like "These are my feet and shoes because they walk everywhere I go." Simple. Perfect.
Why This Book Is So Fun to Talk About
Here's the thing that makes this book extra special. It pushes kids to think positively about themselves without feeling forced. Ewald makes it feel like a game.
The Best Of Me Book
Kids don't hold back either. You get raw honesty wrapped in childlike wonder. Some say their scars. Others say their freckled nose. It's refreshing in a world full of filter culture.
The book basically says "You're already amazing." Without preachy speeches. Without cheesy motivational posters. Just real kids being real.
The Bigger Picture (But Still Fun)
Ewald spent decades working with marginalized communities, making sure every child's voice gets heard through imagery. Photography becomes a powerful tool for self-expression.
The Best Part of Me Book | The best part of me kindergarten, Best part
The project also sparked community exhibits where families got to see their kids as artists. Imagine walking into a gallery and finding your child's giant photo on the wall. So cool.
It's one of those rare books that works for everyone. Kids love it because it's about kids. Adults love it because it's honest and heartwarming.
Go Pick It Up
The Best Part of Me by Wendy Ewald isn't just a book. It's a reminder that the most ordinary things about us can be extraordinary. Elbows included.
So next time someone asks what's great about you, don't overthink it. A kid out there would probably say your left ear. And honestly? They might be right.