Military families move, on average, about every 2-3 years. These moves with the military can be CONUS (in the Continental United States) or OCONUS (outside of the Continental United States). Have you ever wondered how children handle these moves? Pearl Gifty Alimo takes us through an OCONUS move through the eyes of a school-aged military child in her children’s book Maya Moves to a New Country. Maya’s story gives you a glimpse at the bravery military children possess as they move to other countries, assimilate to new cultures and find belonging.
Disclaimer: Strength 4 Spouses was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis
Military moves can be quite the transition for children. In Pearl Gifty Alimo’s latest book Maya Moves to a New Country, Maya is forced to say her goodbyes as her father receives orders for the family to move overseas. With the help of supportive teachers, friends, and her family, Maya’s transition to Japan is filled with excitement. The story puts optimism at the center of a military move and replaces fear, anxiety, and uncertainty with excitement, learning, and wonder.
Strengths
This book offers young readers a positive glimpse into how military children handle frequent moves. It shows readers that having an optimistic attitude and a positive as well as reassuring support system can go a long way. Maya Moves to a New Country shows readers how to develop positive coping strategies such as: journaling, developing a growth mindset, and embracing the new place she calls home. Pearl Gifty Alimo is brilliant as she shows children through Maya’s eyes how to adapt to a new culture and welcome change. The beautiful illustrations by Sayani MukherJee really help readers visualize the experiences of Maya’s family in Japan.
My Final Thoughts
Maya Moves to a New Country is a perfect book for all children ages 4 and up. The story is very relatable for military children as their transient lifestyles force them to move CONUS and OCONUS. What I love most about this children’s book is the optimism and positivity that is embedded into the story. This can help young readers learn positive coping strategies as they follow along Maya’s journey.
Reserve your copy of Maya Moves to a New Country on Amazon.
© Strength 4 Spouses LLC, 2023.
About the Author
Pearl Gifty Alimo is an award-winning author and educator. She is married to her high school sweetheart who has been serving the United States Navy since 2008. Together, they have three wonderful children and have lived in Japan and across the United States at multiple military bases. Pearl Alimo has a Bachelor’s degree in French and linguistics from the University of Ghana-Legon and a Master’s degree in Education from Michigan State University. She works with military families as an early childhood educator and coach. Pearl enjoys reading to children and coaching childcare professionals tp provide quality care for children with parents in uniform. When she is not working or writing, she is snuggling her own children and enjoying a good book.
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