The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2020Children's Books, Arts, Music & Photography

90%

WISE Score

4.9

Amazon

A visually stunning pep talk that celebrates being yourself without the usual 'participation trophy' cheese.

The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be

book

2020, Children's Books, Arts, Music & Photography

90%

WISE Score

4.9

Amazon

A visually stunning pep talk that celebrates being yourself without the usual 'participation trophy' cheese.

4.9

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Screenwise Verdict

Joanna Gaines brings her Magnolia aesthetic to the nursery, and it actually works. This isn't just a celebrity vanity project; it's a high-quality anchor for a kid's library.

It’s a gentle, visually stunning book that manages to teach diversity and teamwork without feeling like a lecture. It’s not a gripping page-turner, but it’s a solid win for parents who want to reinforce self-worth and kindness. If you need a break from the high-octane energy of modern cartoons, this is the perfect palate cleanser.

Age Fit

Best for ages 3 to 7. Once they hit 8 or 9, the 'everyone is special' vibe might start to feel a little too 'little kid' for them.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

It is the definition of gentle. The book focuses entirely on cooperation, kindness, and the idea that everyone has a unique contribution to make. No villains, no conflict, just pure encouragement.

Imaginative

The hot-air balloon metaphor is a clever way to visualize different personalities and creative processes. Julianna Swaney’s illustrations are whimsical and invite kids to imagine their own designs.

Safe

100

Zero safety concerns. It’s a picture book designed for the youngest audiences with no scary elements, mature themes, or questionable language.

Enriching

Great for social-emotional learning. it specifically highlights that some people work better alone while others like groups, and some are fast while others are methodical—validating different neurotypes and temperaments.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

The art is top-tier—it’s the kind of book you actually want on your coffee table, not hidden in a toy bin.
It validates different ways of working, like being quiet or taking your time, which is great for kids who feel 'different' in a classroom.
Perfect for winding down; it has a calm, rhythmic pace that won't get them hyped up before bed.

⚠

What to Watch For

It’s a 'message' book. If your kid only likes stories with slapstick humor or high-stakes adventure, they might find this a bit slow.
The tone is very earnest. It’s more of a beautiful poem than a plot-driven story.

Conversation Starters

"If you were building a hot-air balloon, what colors or weird gadgets would you add to yours?"
"Which kid in the book reminded you of yourself—the one working alone or the one in the big group?"
"Why do you think the sky would be boring if every balloon looked exactly the same?"

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Related Guides

Joanna Gaines: Shiplap, Intentionality, and the 'Frontier' Reality Check

How to enjoy the Magnolia vibe with your kids without letting the quest for a perfect home stress you out.

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