“Learning to stand in somebody else’s shoes, to see through their eyes, that’s how peace begins. And it’s up to you to make that happen. Empathy is a quality of character that can change the world,” Barack Obama.
And, this is a fitting introduction to Monica Pal’s endearing good nature. She witnessed first hand the impact of the vagaries the pandemic had imposed on us all, but most of all tender souls at her family owned Montessori preschool.
Monica not only stepped into their shoes, but she along with her brother, Neil authored a picture book, titled – ‘The COVID-19 ABC Alphabet Book.’ The dynamic duo skilfully crafted a simple and effective way to outline and make sense of the ‘new normal’ for their young readers.
Illustrated by Anjana Narasimhan, the picture book enables the reader to ‘A’ be aware of ‘Z’ and Zoom into understanding ‘M’ Mask and ‘V’ virus.
In weaving together the various aspects of our lives that were related to the virus, the empathic souls have served their community at large, by disemminating vital information.
Knowledge is power, and by empowering the most vulnerable, Monica and her team have helped many lives emerge stronger. The picture book serves as a reminder that you can do more than you think is possible.
What better way to spread the message of public health and the wisdom that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts? That ‘we’ is stronger than ‘me’.
And, what can be better than carving young minds into a greater depth of understanding?
In learning to wear a mask, socially distance, wash your hands, the reader learns that steps cannot be skipped and steps can’t be rushed. The book serves multiple purposes, by instilling a sense of acceptance of ‘what is.’
With the education and clear understanding, all feelings of hesitation and fear are wiped out from the reader’s mind, making them aware of the pitfalls of procrastination, long before it sets into a habit that is hard to break.
Kudos to the siblings! By collaborating with the artist and the unison of siblings, toward a joint project which serves as a benefit to the whole, one wonders if Monica and Neil realize another virtue they have imparted – which is the harmony amongst siblings!
Monica volunteers at the National Honor Society, Montessori Preschools, OC India Association and California Scholarship Federation. She is an avid reader and is currently learning Kathak, Bharatanatyam and Bollywood Indian dance. Monica has received many awards from numerous dance competitions and has been awarded the ‘Women in Science’ grant from the Orange County Science and Engineering Fair. She received the Innovation Award from the United States House of Representatives for her contribution to the community, with the publication of her book on COVID-19.
Monica and Neil were also featured in Irvine High School (iTV) TV station and in Indian Newspapers.
‘The COVID-19 ABC Alphabet Book’ is available in paperback on Amazon and on Kindle.
