📖 Top 10 Topics: Picture Book "The Safest Place in the World"

"The Safest Place in the World" is a comparatively gentle picture book that differs strongly from wilder adventures like "Egbert Turns Red", where children can explore anger. It is a soothing bedtime story and a source of comfort.

In contrast to the philosophical journey of "Am I Small?" or the outburst of rage in "Egbert Turns Red", "The Safest Place in the World" takes us on a special mission. It is the story of the "Scardies" – small, vulnerable beings discovered by two postal ravens and taken to a place where nothing can harm them.

This picture book is an invitation to talk to children about fears without magnifying them. It is a book about security. Here are the top 10 themes that can be deepened while reading aloud:

1. The Personification of Fear 👻

The "Scardies" make fears visible. Fears are often big, abstract, and scary. By portraying them as small, helpless beings, the book makes them tangible and – even more importantly – almost pitiable. Thus, children learn not to see their fear as an overpowering enemy, but as a part of themselves that perhaps needs protection. For example, ask your child(ren): "What would your fear look like if it were a creature?"

2. Safety and Security 🛌

This is the absolute core theme. The book satisfies the deep longing of every child (and adult) to know a place where one is unconditionally safe. It conveys a deep sense of security and peace. While reading, you literally feel this safety. If it fits the situation, introduce the concept of an inner safe place to your child(ren) and discuss together what else can help to feel safe, e.g., a stuffed animal or a nightlight.

3. Care and Empathy ❤️

The postal ravens find the Scardies and decide to help them. They act out of responsibility, care, and compassion. The story shows by example how important it is to look out for others, recognize their distress, and actively help if necessary. Of course, one's own safety must not be endangered in the process – explain to your child(ren) in an age-appropriate way the difference between friendly help and reckless self-endangerment. Especially as a child, it is usually the better choice to inform Mom and Dad, for example, so they can help if needed.

4. Trust 🤝

The Scardies must trust the ravens to let themselves be taken along. For a child who is afraid, it is often hard to confide in someone. The story shows vividly that it is worth trusting helpers (parents, friends, educators) and accepting their help. Of course, it is essential to teach your child(ren) in good time that one must always approach unknown persons and situations with the necessary portion of caution and skepticism so as not to trust "the wrong ones".

5. Helpfulness 🕊️

The ravens could simply fly on in the story – after all, they aren't their Scardies. But they take responsibility. This is an important example of moral courage and helpfulness: When we see that someone is not doing well, we look closer and lend a hand, as far as it is justifiable and possible.

6. The "Journey" as a Calming Process 🌌

The Scardies are not "healed" instantly. The ravens take them on a flight, a journey. This shows: Sometimes it takes time for fear to subside. The path to calm is a process, not a light switch.

7. The "Bedtime Ritual" 🌙

The book is a bedtime story that enables children to talk about their own fears encountered during the day and to let go of these fears in conversation. The "safest place in the world" is ultimately where "sweet dreams were already waiting for them". It is a trust-building perspective on the night and falling asleep in a safe home, in one's own bed, possibly with a light and stuffed animal, protected by parents.

8. Mindfulness 🧘

The ravens do not judge the Scardies. They don't say: "Don't make such a fuss!" They simply perceive the beings with their feelings and issues as they are: fearful and in need of help. They look closely. This shows children (and parents) the possibility to also look closely at their own feelings, fears, and worries and to deal with them mindfully.

9. Courage 🦸

While "Egbert" might show the courage of the angry one and "Tamia" the courage of the seeker, this book shows the courage of the protectors. The ravens are strong and determined. They convey the feeling: "Don't worry, we are here, we are taking care of it." This strengthens the children's trust in their "protectors", usually Mom and Dad.

10. Hope and Optimism ☀️

The story has a thoroughly positive ending. The Scardies find safety. The book leaves a feeling of hope and comfort. It conveys the inestimably important message: No matter how scared you are, there is a safe place for you. This book is like a warm blanket for the (child's) soul. It is ideal for sensitive children or for phases when the world outside might be just a bit too extreme.

And yes, of course, the above "Top 10" list of important themes in the picture book "The Safest Place in the World" is absolutely subjective, and infinitely many other "Top 10" lists with other favorite themes are just as conceivable. Perhaps you would like to send us your favorite themes that you discovered with your child(ren) when you have the chance? 

Have fun reading aloud and with the exciting conversations that result from it!