I Know Things by Karla Clark celebrates the curious minds of youngsters – reminding them they know more that they (or adults) realize!
Kids are constantly learning and growing in their understanding of the world around them, but what about all the things they already know? With playful affirmations and a lively narrator, this book announces in a big, joyful way all the many things' kids understand. Some are small and insignificant; some are deep and everlasting:
Cuddles can speak louder than words
Skipping can chase away the blues
Adults don’t always have all the answers
But the narrator emphasizes that there is more to come—more life to experience and more lessons to learn.
Perfect for back-to-school or other times of transition in a child’s life, this book reminds nervous or worried kids that they can take on whatever comes their way because… they know things!
I had a chance to learn more in this interview.
What was the inspiration behind this book?
My granddaughter was the inspiration behind this book! When she was six, she told me something about the “stratosphere” and I said, “Wow, you know a lot for a little thing.” She responded, “I may be little, but I know things.” That sentenced sparked the idea. Kids are always learning but they already know a lot and we need to celebrate all that they know.
Why is it important for parents to help kids realize what they already know about the world?
Kids are absorbing everything around them — the way seasons change, how people treat each other, what makes them feel safe or loved. But we’re often so busy rushing them toward the next thing to learn that we forget to pause and say, “You already know so much!” When we do that, it builds something really powerful: confidence. It tells a child that their experiences matter and that wisdom isn’t just handed down by adults — it lives inside them too. That inner knowing is where real curiosity begins.
How can a book like this be used to explore further curiosity and spark discussion?
My favorite thing to suggest is simple: after reading, ask your child, “What’s something YOU know that isn’t in this book?" Then really listen. Kids light up when adults are genuinely curious about their perspective. I Know Things is meant to be a mirror — when children see their own observations and experiences reflected on the page, it opens the door to so many conversations about nature, feelings, family, and the world. Hopefully, the book is really just the beginning of that discussion.
About Karla Clark: Karla Clark wanted to be an author when she was a child…then she wanted to be an artist. She feels blessed to be working as both as an adult. Karla has written novels, short stories, and numerous picture books. She lives in Rockford, Illinois, with her husband and son. When not writing, she is busy creating decoupage collages and digital art that she sells online and at art shows.
No comments:
Post a Comment