Dearest Children ― A Message Inspired by Father Edward J. Flanagan

On December 12, 1917, Father Edward J. Flanagan opened his Home for Boys in Omaha, Nebraska. It later became known as Boys Town, and grew to be far more than a simple home for orphans. Father Flanagan transformed America's child care system, doing away with the reform schools, orphanages and workhouses, and replacing them with communities of homes where troubled kids could grow up as part of a loving family. A century after Boys Town's founding, this first-of-its-kind book for children channels the defining principles of Father Flanagan, encouraging children to reflect on their blessings and challenging them to find their purpose as they lead lives of compassion. Beautifully illustrated, the text echoes the words of Father Flanagan, presented in his quotes under each historically informed image. The title "Dearest Children" pays homage to the beloved priest, borrowing the very way he addressed the children in his care. Collaborating with the Boys Town Hall of history and experts in the Boys Town Model of Care, author and illustrator Eli Hernandez has captured Father Flanagan's true character and made his most valuable wisdom accessible to the youngest of readers. Following the text, parents will find interactive activities and discussion topics to share with children.

Eli Hernandez has been drawing, painting and telling stories since he was a child growing up in rural Iowa. He holds a BFA from the School of Art and Art History and has been employed with Boys Town's Marketing Production team since 2001. Living Father Flanagan's mission every day inspired him to write and illustrate Dearest Children.