From Bob McKinnon comes this modern retelling of the beloved classic, Little Engine that Could, that asks young readers, “How does your journey differ from others?” It also serves as a thank you letter to all the parents, teachers, role models, and even strangers, who help to clear the storm or pull the tree trunk from their track.
Available in your favorite bookstores.
Have you ever asked yourself this question? Or wondered why your life turned differently than you expected or from others you know. On this site, you’ll find tools, writing and podcast episodes that explores this question and others. Watch Bob’s TEDx talk to learn about his journey and the science behind how we see our lives and those of others.
Children’s Books
I think I can, I think I can, I think I… can’t? What’s an Engine to do when even believing in yourself won’t get you to the top of the mountain? In this modern retelling of the beloved The Little Engine That Could, The Little Blue Engine and her friends attempt to reach the town on the other side of the mountain, but they quickly realize that not every engine is on the same track, and they all face different obstacles in their journey. In Three Little Engines author Bob McKinnon asks young readers: How does your journey differ from others?
While paying homage to the beloved classic, author Bob McKinnon acknowledges that although positive thinking and confidence are important, they are not always enough to help you succeed. In many instances, success requires a helping hand. This book is a gentle introduction to the idea of socioeconomic mobility and inequality in America. Heavily inspired by his own experiences, McKinnon teaches the youngest of readers how to recognize opportunity and inequality in the American Dream, and, most importantly, how to extend a helping hand to those on different tracks of life. At its heart, Three Little Engines is a thank you letter to all the parents, teachers, role models, and even strangers, who help to clear the storm or pull the tree trunk from your track.
Three Little Engines is now a New York Times best seller! Order your copy today from your favorite online bookseller or your local bookstore:
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Newsletter
United
During the fourth game of the World Series between two long time rivals – the Yankees and Dodgers, there was a long pause.
In unison, the players from both teams, umpires, crew and the almost 50,000 fans stood. Each held a placard with a name on it – representing the person they were standing up for who had – or is – battling cancer. It was part of a national effort from the organization Stand Up to Cancer.
It was a heart-felt reminder that even in divided contests, we are more united than we may realize. I believe, and research supports, that most people are decent and that we essentially want the same things; a good life for ourselves and our families. fairness, peace and freedom in our life and in the world chief amongst them. Even with seemingly contentious issues ranging from immigration, gun control to abortion, there is much more alignment that we are led to believe.
Yet there are some who seek to divide us – mostly in an effort to accumulate power for themselves. I recently watched the provocative John Sayles film Matewan. The story revolves around a coal mining town’s efforts to unionize. As the primary strategies to thwart their efforts, the mine owners try to divide the union; pitting the locals against their immigrant and African-American co-workers. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?
Another movie, The American President, featured a moving final speechwhere the incumbent’s remarks about his challenger are prescient when considering tomorrow’s election, saying:
“We have serious problems to solve, and we need serious people to solve them. And whatever your particular problem is, I promise you Bob Rumson is not the least bit interested in solving it. He is interested in two things, and two things only: making you afraid of it, and telling you who’s to blame for it.”
I don’t know about you but I am tired of those who try to divide us, who call people names, making others feel small in an attempt to feel big. I want a President who not only dials down the drama but turns up the volume of unity. Who is supported by members of the opposite party not rejected by those who have previously served side by side with them. I want someone who can inspire my children and not give them more cause for anxiety.
I appreciate that people have different political views informed by both their life experiences and the people they live with and love. They have different considerations, circumstances, frustrations and needs. They have heard and received information from different people and places that they trust that are different from mine. I get it.
Sometimes, when faced with choices, I wonder what historical people whose character is universally admired would have done.
Imagine if this group of people could vote in this election – Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr, Jesus, Princess Diana. Cesar Chavez and Mother Teresa.
They are among the list of most admired people in history. Who do you think they would vote for?
Of course, their imaginary votes won’t count. Frankly, mine won’t either as I live in a state that goes largely uncontested. But yours might.
Who will you stand up for?
This Week’s Recommendation: Exercise your right to vote.
Monday Morning Notes
Delivered to your mailbox each Monday morning, these short notes offer an opportunity each week to reflect on who and what contributes to where we end up in life. Readers tell us it’s a great way to start their week on a positive note. See the latest note below:
United
During the fourth game of the World Series between two long time rivals – the Yankees and Dodgers, there was a long pause. In unison, the players from both teams, umpires, crew and the almost 50,000 fans stood. Each held a placard with a name on it – representing the person they were standing up …
Attribution with Bob McKinnon
Attribution is a podcast, where people from all walks of life, reflect on who and what has contributed to where they ended up. Our hope is after each episode, you feel a little more inspired, grateful, or supported, then when you first hit play. Check out the latest episode below:
Episode 29: Random w/ Mark Rank
Mark R. Rank is recognized as a foremost expert on issues of poverty, inequality and social justice. To date he has written 10 books on a range of subjects, including an exploration of the American Dream and a new understanding of poverty and inequality. In this episode, I talk to Mark about his latest book, The Random Factor which looks at the role of luck and chance in shaping the course of our lives. It was a fascinating discussion, one I was lucky to have. I hope you enjoy.
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