By The School of Life (author)
"A book designed to harness children's spontaneous philosophical instinct and to develop it through introductions to some of the most vibrant and essential philosophical ideas of history."
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It's twenty four years since Alan de Boton wrote Consolations of Philosophy . Back then - before the swell of the 'wellbeing' movement and the cascade of podcasts and online communities about living lives aligned to Stocism and Eastern philosophies - this was somewhat of a trailblazer. In it, the Cambridge and Harvard-educated historian and philosopher condensed the seemingly abstract teachings of various philosophers into applicable self-help for life's very real problems.
What can we learn from Socrates about being unpopular, for example, or from Epicurus on feeling cash-poor?
Subsequent to the book's success, de Boton co-founded the School of Life, a London-based cultural enterprise and events hub which has also become a publisher, and Big Ideas for Curious Minds: An introduction to philosophy is one of its books for younger readers. Very much in the vein of de Boton's original bestseller, this introduces readers to various philosophers in the context of everyday challenges.
Each chapter explores a "Big Idea" : "Why you feel lonely", for example, or "When someone is angry maybe it's not you who's responsible" - and links this to an idea from a certain philosopher, giving a little biography alongside a very cute illustration. It's great how, beyond the big names of classical and twentieth century philosophers, some lesser known teachers are introduced that even grown-ups may not have heard of: Matsuo Basho of Japan, for instance, and Zera Yacob of Ethiopia, lending diversity and inclusivity to the text.
It's a nicely written book that would be best read, I suggest, with a curious ten to twelve year old (it generated some interesting bedtime chats with my 12 year old daughter). But keen readers may also enjoy it alone if they have specific interests in that area or an appetite for ideas. More schools now offer philosophy within their curricula, either at primary or pre-GCSE, sometimes as part of religious studies, and this could be a good, accessible, primer.
If I had one criticism it would be that the title is slightly misleading. It's not not really 'an introduction to philosophy', in the sense of representing the full range and intention of that social science. That's no bad thing in itself as there are, of course, many other books that fulfill this role well (e.g Nigel Warburton's excellent A Little History of Philosophy ).
But the interdisciplinary science of philosophy encompasses so much - from logic to ethics, through religion, science and metaphysics, even setting aside method and analysis - whereas this book focuses on a fairly narrow range of questions mainly centred on psychology and emotions. But then perhaps 'Consolations of Philosophy for Kids' was thought a bit complicated.
In any case, one can only feel grateful to the School of Life for bringing wisdom into easier reach for adults and children alike. ~ Tanya Carus Blacher
Children are, in many ways, born philosophers. Without prompting, they ask some of the largest questions about time, mortality, happiness and the meaning of it all. Yet too often this inborn curiosity is not developed and, with age, the questions fall away. This is a book designed to harness children's spontaneous philosophical instinct and to develop it through introductions to some of the most vibrant and essential philosophical ideas of history.
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The book takes us to meet leading figures of philosophy from around the world and from all eras - and shows us how their ideas continue to matter. The book functions as an ideal introduction to philosophy, as well as a charming way to open up conversations between adults and children about the biggest questions we all face.
Also available in the series:
Big Ideas From History
Big Ideas From Literature
'This is an absolute must have for ALL children. It is absolutely fantastic and helps children understand a number of their daily struggles. In fact I take that previous comment back, this is an absolute must for EVERYONE. I have had read it from cover to cover, and as a 40 year old woman I have honestly learnt something new.' - Freddies Mummy UK
'This is a beautifully produced book published by the School of Life (founded by well known philosopher Alain de Botton). It is a very accessible starting point for exploring philosophy and how philosophical ideas can be applied to everyday life, in fact it is very explicit about this.' - Ewingel
'I can't stop reading and talking about this book with others. It is easy to follow and great for an introduction to philosophy for kids. Well written, great illustrations, ideas and clever how it relates the philosophers' ideas to the lives and issues that children have. 5 stars!' - Thomas Leesa
'The book itself is genius with an introduction to leading figures of philosophy from around the world from all eras. Alongside that there are chapters teaching our children crucial lessons about life, about love, and about loss. Topics such as 'Why you feel lonely', 'Politeness matters', 'People are unhappy not mean', and 'The mind-body problem' offer invaluable insights into philosophy in a way that our children can really get on board with. When the book arrived and I had a quick glance through it, my immediate reaction was that it was far too old for my children. And yet when I took the time to start reading, and to admire the beautiful illustrations, I found myself still sat there, an hour later, realising that this was exactly the kind of book I want each of my children to read as they grow.' - Five Little Doves
'The focus of these chapters are incredibly meaningful, some of my favourites include 'People are unhappy, not mean', 'Learn to say what's on your mind', 'Good things are (unexpectedly) hard' and 'Politeness matters'. The book has been written by the fantastic School of Life and it is suggested for curious minds aged 9+. I think most adults would also find these ideas incredibly helpful to reflect on; who doesn't need reminding that when someone is angry, maybe it's not you who is responsible?' - Louise Treherne, Role Models
'Although Big Ideas for Curious Minds is aimed at children I have got a lot from it too - and I wish I had read it myself as a child... This book has taught me, and LP, new ways of thinking and new ways of being.' - What the Redhead Said
The School of Life publishes a range of books, games and learning tools for children introducing curious young minds to brilliant ideas from psychology, philosophy, literature, science, art, architecture and beyond, that can help them grow into happy, healthy and emotionally mature adults.
Our team of psychologists, writers and designers work together to produce engaging, beautifully illustrated, age-appropriate teaching that can be put to work in everyday life. We never dumb down or over-simplify; rather, trusting in the intelligence and curiosity of our young readers, we aim to make our wisdom as engaging and relatable as possible. We seek to provide what the traditional curriculum often lacks: an emotional education.
The School of Life is a global organisation helping people lead more fulfilled lives. The Schol of Life is a resource for exploring self-knowledge, relationships, work, socialising, finding calm and enjoying culture through content, community and conversation. You can find them online, in stores and in welcoming spaces around the world offering classes, events and one-to-one therapy sessions. The School of Life is a rapidly growing global brand, with over 5 million YouTube subscribers, 327,000 Facebook followers, 135,000 Instagram followers and 152,000 Twitter followers. The School of Life Press brings together the thinking and ideas of the School of Life creative team under the direction of series editor, Alain de Botton. Their books share a coherent, curated message that speaks with one voice: calm, reassuring, and sane.
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Children are, in many ways, born philosophers. Without prompting, they ask some of the largest questions about time, mortality, happiness and the meaning of it all.
The LoveReading4Kids Editorial Team have read and reviewed Big Ideas for Curious Minds: An Introduction to Philosophy and determined it is suitable for children aged 9-12 years old
Big Ideas for Curious Minds: An Introduction to Philosophy features in the following genres: Encyclopaedias, Reference Works, Children’s, Teenage and Educational, General Knowledge & Trivia, Children’s / Teenage: General interest, Featured Books for 9+ readers, Recommendations, People / Places, Featured Books for 11+ readers
Hardback. £20.69, down from the £22.99 cover price. In Stock.
Big Ideas for Curious Minds: An Introduction to Philosophy was written by The School of Life and published by The School of Life Press
Big Ideas for Curious Minds: An Introduction to Philosophy has 147 pages
£20.69, reduced from £22.99. In Stock.
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