The Courage of the Little Hummingbird

Reach for this book when your child expresses feeling small, powerless, or overwhelmed by a task that seems too big for them to handle alone. This beautifully told Quechuan legend follows a tiny hummingbird who tries to save the Great Forest from a fire while larger animals stand paralyzed by fear. It is a powerful exploration of perseverance, collective responsibility, and the idea that doing what you can is always enough. Leah Henderson's lyrical prose and the vivid illustrations make this an ideal choice for children ages 4 to 8 who are developing a sense of civic duty or environmental awareness. Parents will appreciate how the story moves from a place of individual effort to a collective movement, teaching that bravery is often contagious. It provides a gentle way to discuss natural disasters or social issues without being heavy-handed, focusing instead on the sparks of hope that lead to big changes.