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:
What is Your American Dream Score
Newsletter
Overlooked
The other day while walking my dog, Scout, I stopped to pick a dandelion. It had reached that point in its life cycle and it was ripe for picking and as children are wont to do – blowing upon. Releasing their intricate umbrella shaped seeds into the air creating the possibility for new life. I’m not sure what prompted me to re-engage in this childhood tradition, but it was wonderful. I paused for a moment or two marveling at the beauty of this overlooked, misunderstood and under appreciated flower. I noticed details that enhanced its beauty and forever changed the way I will see them.
Once released from our childhood whimsies, we grow to see the dandelion as a nuisance. Something that detracts from a well manicured lawn. Almost impossible to eradicate. We liken it to a weed that is without merit or value. We are wrong.
Dandelions are, in fact, great for soil health. They have varied and potent medicinal value. Not only are they edible but they hold more nutritional value than most vegetables we eat. They are, like most things in nature, divine and miraculous.
To overlook the potential of a flower at our feet is unfortunate but understandable. To overlook the potential of a student right in front of us is an altogether different matter.
I am fortunate to teach at two different universities. One is private and one is public. One is very expensive and the other quite affordable. As a result, they attract students who are typically from dramatically different economic classes.
It is not fair to compare college students and the challenges they face. For they are largely out of their control. At the same time, when employers look at lines of a resume, they will often miss the full story of what has led them to this point.
Most of my students at City College are first generation, meaning they don’t have much guidance in navigating the worlds of higher education or white collar job searches. Most work in college, meaning they are more likely to miss out on extracurricular activities like club and unpaid internships that bolster a resume. They have commutes that are often one to two hours. This combined with their jobs and family responsibilities make it more likely they will miss some classes or be late to others. My experience has also shown that grade inflation is a much bigger issue at expensive private colleges than it is as public ones. One theory being that – perhaps subconsciously – no one wants to upset a customer (parent) who is paying $80K+ for an education.
The net is that when two resumes hit a desk, it is easy to overlook one. This would be a mistake.
As they say, talent is evenly distributed even as opportunity and investment are not.
I am blown away by the eagerness to learn, to improve, to grow and to contribute that these students demonstrate. Their depth of thought, humility, compassion, and street smarts make them ideal employees for any company or organization. If only you stop to look a little closer. The added benefit, similar to that of the dandelion, is that when you do, the seeds you plant will spread across the land for generations to come.
Recommendation for the Week: Run – don’t walk – to go see the movie Sheep Detectives. It is funny, moving, and so heartfelt. Within the story line, is another overlooked thing of beauty – winter sheep – that will steal your heart. Trust me you and your family will love it – regardless of your age.
Consider sharing this with anyone you know who has hiring responsibilities.
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:
Overlooked
The other day while walking my dog, Scout, I stopped to pick a dandelion. It had reached that point in its life cycle and it was ripe for picking and as children are wont to do – blowing upon. Releasing their intricate umbrella shaped seeds into the air creating the possibility for new life. I’m …
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 35: Class Matters w/ Richard Kahlenberg
Richard D. Kahlenberg is an education and housing policy researcher, writer, consultant, and speaker. He is also Director of Housing Policy and Director of the American Identity Project at the Progressive Policy Institute. The author or editor of 19 books, his latest is Class Matters: The Fight to Get Beyond Race Preferences, Reduce Inequality, and Build Real Diversity at America’s Colleges. This was a deep and challenging conversation about class, race, higher education, affirmative action and social mobility.