Becoming Better Grownups: Rediscovering What Matters and Remembering How to Fly Hardcover – Illustrated, March 31, 2020

There are few people in their early thirties with as much insight, talent, and humor as Brad Montague, although he would likely blush and blow off the compliment. He is hilarious and creative yet humble and kind. And who knew that such a talented person (he's the brains / writer / producer / brother extraordinaire / man behind the "Kid President" video phenomenon) could struggle with knowing how to be a good grownup? But he's honest about that, while also passionate and patient, as he fleshes out that process. His quest to find out what it takes to be a good grownup meant talking - well, actually, listening - to hundreds of kids and older folks (aka kids at heart) and gaining insight along the way. The end result of his fact-finding mission is this funny, beautifully packaged, wonderfully illustrated book, one that you MUST buy for your favorite human who's trying to be not only a good grownup, but a great one. Reading this book will provide the inspiration they need to, ultimately, help others fly.

Brad is one of the best, most humble, yet fantastic writers in our world today. He takes huge, big messy things and simplifies them using clever prose and awesome hand-drawn art. I was eagerly anticipating the arrival of this book and immediately loved the messages, lessons, and of course, humor. As an elementary school teacher, Brad is who I only hope my students become—difference makers who try everything they can to make the world a better place. The stories, the clever & witty poems, the awesome recounts of ordinary students in classrooms across the US all combine to create a magical book that I hope every grown-up (or grown-up in disguise) will read. Brad’s insight gives hope to this world. I have since bought three other friends this awesome book! You will delight in the joy it brings!

Brad has created a beautiful piece of art and love that was so timely in light of the global pandemic and the struggles of 2020. The content of the book is inspiring and gives practical insights on how to be a better grownup through the form of stories. The illustrations are beautiful. I purchased this for myself and then bought a copy for each of the college students I supervise - a perfect graduation gift or college gift for those trying to figure out what in the world it means to be a "grownup." Thank you for sharing your stories, talent, and joy with us, Brad!

I'm a long-time fan of Kid President so when I saw Brad (the uncle and camera man) had a book out, I was quick to get it. I'm so glad I did! It is humble, insightful, encouraging, and inspiring - without being dull or preachy. It helped me remember my "Why" (as in why I became an educator) and I plan to read it each year before school begins, when I think we could all use a little pep talk and reminder about what's important and why.

A must read for all!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book—one of the first things I noticed about it was that there are pictures on nearly every page. That delighted me because how many books are printed today for adults that have PICTURES? I personally feel like not very many, though you may feel otherwise. I should’ve known it would have many illustrations since Brad is an artist, but somehow it slipped my mind and I was happily surprised by the many colorful images on the inside.This book declares in a loud voice for all to hear, you MATTER. You DO make a difference in the world, even if you can’t see it.Oftentimes we can believe that our acts of kindness don’t really affect people, but this book reveals that our acts of goodness—even the smallest ones!—can impact people far beyond what we could ever imagine, and there are many stories in this book to prove this. People are rarely thanked aloud for the impact they’ve had on another’s life, but even if it isn’t voiced, it’s there. We need each other. Every single person matters in this world and can make a positive difference in another person’s life.We’re the grownups in the room. Our acts of joyful rebellion against the darkness of the world truly makes a difference. So if you’re asked yourself before, “Do I really matter? Have I made or can I make a difference in this world?” The answer is a resounding YES!This book was funny, inspiring, and motivating. Its main message derives from becoming more like a child—childlike, but not childish. It’s about imitating the best found in innocent children: love, kindness, empathy, and a drive to do good.This book is for everyone who wants to be a better person, not just for grownups.I highly recommend this book to all who are curious about it. Brad has made something wonderful in this short but sweet book.Fly, and help others fly as well. You have the ability to do this.

It must have been providence that brought this book into my home right as we realized the world had gone upside-down with the pandemic. Too much of the world amplifies conflict, seriousness, and fear – and yes there are big issues that have to be addressed – those things are temporary, but how we treat each other is permanent.The writing is open, engaging and overflowing with kindness – the illustrations engage the heart as the message of how to ‘be a better grownup’ melts your heart a bit.The message is wonderfully uplifting and challenging – don’t let the whimsey fool you, it’s not “how to be a child”. Brad challenges us to be the type of grownup we needed (or appreciated) when we were children – mature, confident, worthy, and infused with a child-like sense of joy, kindness and wonder.