Overview

Ward and the State: A Story for Young Thrivers is an uplifting children's book about courage, kindness, and growth in the face of hard things. Inspired by the real-life experiences of author Orvin T. Kimbrough, who overcame hardship and foster care to become a community leader, this beautifully written story follows a young boy named Ward as he learns how to thrive-no matter where life begins. Through twenty short, heartfelt chapters, readers watch Ward face challenges that many children quietly carry: loss, change, loneliness, and uncertainty. Each chapter shows how Ward turns difficulty into strength-how he forgives when he's hurt, gets back up when he falls, and keeps believing in himself even when life feels unfair. Along the way, he discovers big ideas about resilience, gratitude, learning, leadership, and hope. What makes this book special is its invitation for reflection. Each story ends with a ""Big Idea"" and a hands-on ""Try This!"" activity that helps children think, draw, and talk about what they've learned. These sections transform the story into a practical guide for emotional growth-perfect for parents, teachers, counselors, and caregivers who want to spark meaningful conversations about kindness, courage, and self-worth. Ward's journey reminds readers that thriving isn't about having an easy life-it's about meeting life's moments with heart. As Ward learns to keep climbing through tough times, to forgive, to dream big, and to give back, he models the quiet power of perseverance and compassion. With gentle language, watercolor-like illustrations, and themes of empathy and empowerment, Ward and the State is ideal for children ages 5-10. It offers comfort to those who have faced change or loss and inspiration to every child who wonders if they are enough. Ultimately, Orvin Kimbrough's story teaches one unforgettable truth: every young person has a light inside them that can turn struggle into strength-and hope into action.

Full Product Details

9781955711494

Table of Contents

Reviews

""In Ward and the State, Orvin Kimbrough gives children-and the adults who guide them-a beautifully simple yet powerful roadmap for resilience. Rooted in lived experience and written with care, this book encourages reflection, emotional growth, and confidence. A meaningful resource for us all, Kimbrough has created a gift for every child who needs to hear, 'You matter, and you can rise.'"" -Amy Shaw, President and CEO, Nine PBS ""This is the book we've been waiting for-one that delivers an authentic and empathetic message for our children. Too often, youth in foster care don't have the opportunity to explore the full range of their deep and complex emotions. Orvin Kimbrough has given them the gift of naming and acknowledging their difficult feelings, while inspiring every child to draw from their reservoir of resilience."" -Melanie Scheetz, Executive Director, Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition ""Drawing from the important messages in Twice Over a Man, Orvin Kimbrough skillfully translates his insights for a younger audience, offering guidance that is both inspiring and deeply relatable."" -Kristen Sorth, Director and CEO, St. Louis County Library ""For young people searching for safety, warmth, and the chance to be heard and seen, Kimbrough's narrative offers both refuge and reflection. They can find themselves-and a sense of home-here."" -Julius B. Anthony, Founder, The Believe Projects ""Ward and the State is a heartfelt and inspirational story for both children and adults. It's a powerful reminder that even in life's most challenging moments, determination, kindness, and forgiveness help us rise above our trials and fill our own cup. Ward and the State is a beautiful complement to Twice Over a Man. Thank you, Orvin Kimbrough! -Constance Gully, President & Chief Executive Officer, Parents as Teachers ""'Be the good you wish to see in the world.' Orvin Kimbrough lives this philosophy every day, and Ward and the State is a powerful reflection of it. Through compassionate storytelling, he reminds young readers that life's challenges and emotions are part of everyone's journey, helping them feel seen, supported, and worthy of their dreams."" -Gina M. Bremehr, Chairman, Object Computing ""Ward and the State speaks to the heart of anyone who's faced adversity. Its lessons aren't just for kids-they remind us, as leaders, that resilience, forgiveness, and hope are the cornerstones of growth."" -Luz R. Haberberger, P.E., PMP, President & CEO, Luzco Technologies LLC

Author Information

Orvin Kimbrough is a social worker, business leader, author, and speaker who grew up in the foster care system and rose to become a bank CEO. His life's work is helping people and communities move from being stuck to being strengthened.Learn more about Orvin's books, programs, and The Thriver's Path(TM) at www.orvinkimbrough.com.

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