Some parents wondered why I wanted to ask their children questions. I told them it was a hobby of mine when I traveled (some people collect stamps, I collect friendships). I said I enjoyed making deeper connections with the locals, and that speaking with their children helped me to do that. I added that someday I might arrange to memorialize the children's words. They were excited, but some asked me not to expose their identities. It was interesting to hear that same request from almost everyone, especially in Asia and the Middle East.

To honor the parents' requests, and out of respect for their privacy and safety, I have not used the children's last names or photos in the book and only photos of children that gave me permission on this site. Individual identities are not important in any case; the children in this book represent children everywhere. I simply give you their hearts, for they were the heart of my journeys around the globe. Enjoy and learn from their surprising thoughts, and share them with the little people in your life.

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