Ward and the State

<p><em style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>Ward and the State: A Story for Young Thrivers</em><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)> 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.</span></p><p><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>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.</span></p><p><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>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.</span></p><p><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>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.</span></p><p><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>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.</span></p><p><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>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.</span></p><p></p>