How Willow the Wonderer Can Help Worried Grandparents and Parents

Reeta Dhar
Mar 28
3 min read

Updated: Apr 27

Understanding the Concerns of Parents and Grandparents

Last week, I received numerous emails from concerned grandparents and parents. They expressed worry for their little ones' well-being. Some children are struggling with school. Others face challenges fitting in, while some deal with mental health conditions that are tough even for adults.

Their main question: Could the stories of Willow the Wonderer help?

Such emails are not unusual, but never before have I received so many in such a short period. While I can’t give a definitive answer, I reply as thoughtfully as I can, sharing experiences from other parents, teachers, and counselors.

The Trials of Childhood

In the hustle and bustle of adulthood, we often forget what it feels like to be a child.

By all accounts, it’s a tough journey. There are school assignments, making friends, and dealing with math and spelling. Kids must also do homework and face bullies.

There isn’t a manual on how to navigate this stage of life. Children are often plunged into challenges and expected to adapt. Some children thrive and swim ahead, while many struggle. A few swimming lessons beforehand would have made a world of difference.

Navigating Consumerism in a Child's World

After responding to the latest email, I walked to the local supermarket to pick up some groceries, still feeling heavy-hearted from the correspondence.

Most of those who reach out don’t often buy the books. They never intended to. They simply need an outlet to express their feelings. Parenting or grandparenting a child facing difficulties is not easy.

Upon entering Woolworths, I was struck by a wave of dazzling distractions. The front aisle was packed with Easter eggs and dubious chocolate bunnies. It felt overwhelming.

I couldn’t help but wonder if anyone writes to Woolworths' CEO. Do they ask if all this chocolate will actually aid children's mental health?

In today's consumer-driven society, our traditional festivals have been reduced to this spectacle: consuming large amounts of chocolate.

The Essence of Festivals: Stories Matter

Facing adversity isn't always bad. In fact, it can help us discover our inner strength.

What often makes a difference between overcoming challenges and succumbing to them is having a guiding hand. This can be someone who helps navigate trials or inspires perseverance.

Festivals like Easter, Eid, and Diwali emerged from myths and legends that resonate beyond ourselves.

These stories act as a guiding hand. They remind us there is goodness, justice, and salvation in the world. They show us that everyone has the inner potential to rise above limitations and accomplish great things.

Over time, the heroes of these narratives transformed into gods and religions. Yet, it’s essential to remember that every character began and ended their journey as a human.

The Hollowing Out of Our Festivals

Many of the world's religions have histories marred by violence and scandal. Consequently, these ancient stories no longer engage or inspire us as they might have for our ancestors.

In their place, we have empty symbols of consumerism, conjured by advertising to persuade us to consume more: What does a bunny even have to do with Easter?

Sadly, this shift has diminished the tradition of gathering to hear great stories.

Renewing the Importance of Storytelling

While it's challenging to assert that Willow the Wonderer books will significantly impact children's mental health, there is hope. We wrote these books believing they could help:

The seeds of wisdom planted in these stories could flourish over time, guiding children through life's ups and downs. These are stories we wish we had the chance to grow up with.

I’m realizing that it’s not solely about the stories themselves. It’s the act of gathering as a family to share these tales together that holds greater significance.

This Easter, indulge your little ones with sugar-coated chocolate eggs. But remember to also gather them around a wonderful book (we recommend Willow the Wonderer :) and share in a tale of adventure, discovery, and wisdom.

That’s how festivals are meant to be celebrated.