The Bridge of the Golden Wood: A Parable on How to Earn a Living is a children’s story about a little boy who learns that helping others solve their problems can lead not only to personal fulfillment, but also to personal income.

The book itself is short—only 28 pages, with pictures. The illustrations are gorgeous, Asian-themed watercolor paintings by Yaniv Cahoua. The story line doesn’t blatantly tell the reader to go make a living, but shows how helping others (the boy cleared the river of twigs, allowing fish to pass through) can lead to possible earning.

The real lessons come in the last two pages of the book, after the story ends: “Problems and needs are opportunities to help and can lead to income. See opportunity in every obstacle. Can you solve problems or serve people? Then you can earn money—even pay for your living expenses and those around you.” It then goes on to list numerous ways you can earn, with examples for each, such as making something to sell, recycling for cash, trading, performing, even participating in surveys and mystery shopping. It also includes tips on working for someone else, and starting a business or a franchise.

Some of the income ideas would be better for older kids (as is the tip to get a business license and tax ID), but younger children can still be encouraged. The book also provides additional resources to get information on finding customers, managing money, and moving up in an organization.

I am a firm believer in financial literacy and teaching children about the value of work well done. I like The Bridge of the Golden Wood for its lessons in the same. What’s more, my children both loved the story, too. This is definitely a book that you’d want to add to your bookshelves.

- Product review by Rheea Hermoso-Prudente, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, July 2017