January 25, 2010

How do we convey the basic ideas of liberty, justice and self responsibility to our children? We live in a world awash with statist and even communist messages they can't help but pick up each and every day. Of course, our own lives and example are the primary way to convey the truth, but it would seem wise to be on the lookout for things that can give that example a memorable reference. Stories and books have always served this purpose in society, and the freedom community seems badly behind in providing such things, especially for small children.

Consider, then, a small book written by a fierce champion of liberty and justice, Kent McManigal. The story of Indy-Pindy is very simple, to the point, and beautifully illustrated by the author.

Indy-Pindy leaves home and goes out into the world to seek his own life and fortune. He meets many who wish to control or even consume him, and faces some of the temptations and dilemmas of young people everywhere. His choices reflect the integrity and self responsiblity he learned from his parents, and the story has a happy ending.

Not all children have the blessings of that teaching in their everyday life, of course, and real life doesn't always include happy endings, but stories like this are a good starting place for very small children - and I would think would be especially valuable for those children not always exposed to a good example of self ownership and responsibility in their parents.

I suggest Kent write other such stories, to cover the many issues not addressed in this first book. You've got your work cut out for you now, Kent!

**********
Kent McManigal is an anarchist libertarian who recently returned to the Texas/ New Mexico area. He is a frequent contributor to The Libertarian Enterprise, and is a former presidential candidate. He now writes a regular column for Examiner.com. Contact him at: dullhawk@hotmail.com.

See more about Kents books here.  Available through Amazon.com - and please leave a review there too!