Children's Book
A 32-page picture book
Living under a bridge? Working in a dump? Little six-year-old Bayani does just
that in Manila, the Philippines. Bayani and his family live in a tin shack under a bridge
and work in the city dump collecting recyclables. On a good day they earn two
or three dollars. Bayani’s sister Dancia is the only one of the family
able to attend school; she is their hope for the future. The story shows the
love and dreams they have for each other, yet, the message of their precarious
lifestyle is evident.
Every child living in the slums has a name. Every child has
hopes and dreams. Every child feels pain, feels hunger, and needs love. Every
child should have the opportunity for education, for medical care, and a safe home.
Children, who
have no control over the circumstances of their birth, are forced to live in
slums and
usually die in those same squalid conditions. The world must acknowledge
the suffering
of slum children and accept responsibility for improving their conditions.
We as
individuals may have to refocus our lives and take a moment to look at life
through the eyes of Bayani in Bayani’s
Bridge. We can make a difference!
Early praise for
Bayani’s Bridge
“I like the book! It shows the dignity, values, and
aspiration of Bayani’s world while realistically
depicting their poverty.”
Joel
Huyser, Co-director for Latin America, Christian Reformed World Missions
“Bayani’s Bridge
shows the desperate struggle of all in Bayani’s world while retaining their
dignity.
It moved me powerfully. A must-read!”
Mark
Volkers, photojournalist and documentary filmmaker in 20+ countries,
seven-year resident of East Africa,
currently Professor of Communication and Digital Media, Dordt College.
“Bayani’s Bridge is an effective tool for helping students
gain awareness of global issues in a way
that builds empathy and respect for
all of humanity. A wonderful addition to classroom and school libraries.”
Jodi
Ellerie, Elementary Teacher, Calvin Christian School, Edina, Minnesota