"Neela Finds Belonging" Board Book

"The friends went to church! Each friend uses their favorite thing to help others feel safe and loved."

Neela Finds Belonging explores friendship, problem-solving, and cooperation to showcase community and belonging in relatable, concrete ways. Neela and her three young friends are each represented by an item that showcases their personal gifts, demonstrating how our unique contributions strengthen bonds and communities. Neela's favorite thing is a magnifying glass, while her friends each tote their own favorite tools: Ash with his walking stick, Felix with his flashlight, and Finley with their rainbow microphone. Still, even though she's surrounded by friends, Neela's personal journey shows how difficult it is to truly feel belonging. 

Theologically, this book echoes 1 Corinthians 12, in which there is one "Body of Christ" but "many parts." The church is a place where differences become strengths, and love is expressed through practical care of others. Just like the four friends, we all have different ways to be ourselves. When we are fully ourselves among people who love us for who we are, that's community!