You Are Special
By Max Lucado
The Story
In a town where wooden people stick gold stars on the talented and gray dots on the ordinary, a dot-covered Wemmick named Punchinello visits his woodcarver Eli to learn where his worth truly comes from.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's starting to notice comparisons and rankings, this is a gentle answer to the question of whether they measure up.
- Big idea: Worth doesn't come from what others stick on you — it comes from your maker's steady love.
- Vibes: Tender, quiet, and reassuring, with a wooden-village warmth.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are working on building self-worth
- respond well to gentle, faith-centered stories
- like to talk through feelings after a hard day
- enjoy stories with a wise, comforting mentor figure
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why do you think Punchinello started to feel worthless after getting so many gray dots?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Punchinello felt walking into Eli's workshop?
- Real-life connection: Has anyone ever made you feel like you had a gray dot on you? What happened?
- Imagination: If you could ask Eli one question, what would you want to know?
- Big idea: What do you think makes someone special?
