The Back Story
Deb Bowen
The idea for intergenerational storytelling came to me while at a Holocaust Remembrance program in 2003. The first book subject was Esther Avruch who had never told her story before. She was afraid she might cry. One spring day she spoke before a small group of students and about half way through, she did cry. With no prompting those students got out of their seats and surrounded Esther in a group hug. Thanks to their lovingkindness, she was able to finish her story.
That day I realized that it wasn't just about learning history firsthand. It was about lessons in empathy as well. The first three books in the series were about Jewish survivors in our area. The next storybook was about a WWII veteran who served in Europe. The rest is history. Check out our book sets and you'll see over 100 books in the collection about WWII, Civil Rights, etc.
I'm addicted to giving students amazing experiences volunteering in their community through A BOOK by ME and Love Like Lorraine.
Integenerational storytelling and Purses with Purpose to those in need is important work. Now there's an opportunity to provide love to students in developing countries through World Changers as well.
Mission
“When you walk in someone else’s shoes, when you hear their story, you gain a new perspective. This is why I ask ordinary students to do something extraordinary - understanding works!”
Deb Bowen
Vision
"I'm passing along the lessons from the Greatest Generation and others who have lived through hardship to future generations. Our subject's humility, sense of responsibility, and work ethic are inspiring. Having a student interview someone with a powerful story to tell is the greatest gift I can give them and those who will one day read their book."
Deb Bowen
