How to Be an Explorer of the World by Keri Smith

Have a microscope or magnifying glass? You’ll want to have it on hand! Your child may want to document his findings in a notebook by drawing pictures, writing words, or dictating his ideas to you. Of course you should still collect any (and all) interesting objects you find during your exploration, but when you bring them home this time, observe them more closely. So as you and your child venture out on your spring walk, go a bit slower than you normally would and look for things you haven’t noticed before. She urges us to always be looking and to notice the ground beneath our feet. In a November 2014 interview with Time magazine Keri said, “What I’m doing is trying to get kids to pay attention, to look at the physical world more, and to question everything.” On the initial pages of How to Be an Explorer of the World (2008), Keri does just that. This book will remind you that creativity is about the journey and not always the end product. The reader is told to tear pages out, color outside of the lines, and scribble wildly. She encourages the reader to let go of any inhibitions and do things outside of their comfort zone.

Imperfections are what make each artist’s work unique. In it, Keri plays with the idea that imperfections are merely a part of the creative process. You also might be familiar with Wreck This Journal (2007), which is arguably her best-known book. Some of you may be asking, who is Keri Smith? On her website, the Canadian born Smith describes herself as an author/illustrator turned guerrilla artist. So to honor the little collectors in your life, and these first weeks of spring, grab a few plastic bags along with a pencil, a notebook, a camera, a copy of Keri Smith’s book How to Be an Explorer of the World and set out on a spring adventure! Our strollers, bike baskets, and pockets become filled to the brim with tiny treasures. If you’ve ever taken a walk with your child you know this is true, because you can’t make it down the block without them picking up a handful of leaves, acorns, rocks, and sticks.

How to Be an Explorer of the World by Keri Smith