Karen Payne EDRL 524, Fall 2016. What Do You Do With An Idea?

In his book, 'What Do You Do With An Idea', Kobi Yamada cleverly illustrates the dilemma of a young boy who is faced with the problem of what to do with a new idea that simply won't go away. Paralleling a child's natural insecurities along with their developing confidence, Yamada tells the story of a boy whose idea develops from a tiny egg and then proceeds to persistently linger. As the idea grows, the boy tries hard to brush it aside, believing it to be ridiculous, insignificant, and of little importance - he ignores it and even challenges it, but all to no avail. The idea simply becomes even bigger and stronger. Eventually, it shows the boy the true feeling of success and wonderment as it bursts forth out of the egg and gives him an inspirational sense of accomplishment and joy. The story is beautifully illustrated by Mae Besom who creatively crescendos her art from black and white to an explosion of color as the idea grows in importance and significance. This story would appeal to young readers, their parents, and educators, as it playfully, yet accurately, highlights a child's sense of wonder, curiosity, growth, inspiration, and delight upon achieving success. As the idea finally bursts into life, the child experiences an overwhelming sense of joy, and the giddy feeling that he is now 'king' of the world! As a teacher of young children, I anticipate their excitement as I read this book to them for the first time - as they wait with baited breathe to see if the boy continues to ignore his idea and push it aside, or if he finally believes in it enough to let it fly. My question to them would be: does anyone want to guess what his idea might have been...?