Iryna Kotlyarevskaya’s book brings children into conversations about power, choice, responsibility, and citizenship—topics often seen as too complex for young readers. From the

very first pages, it asks: why do elections matter, and why is it important to make your voice heard? The main character, the youngest of four children in a loving family, learns that participation in society starts with personal decisions. 

A simple victory in a playground election becomes her first experience of meaningful choice. The story begins with questions about voting and ends with the result of an election, letting children experience the full democratic process. 

Leaders are ordinary people 

The book introduces children to presidents and leaders as real, ordinary people—full of habits, doubts, and ambitions to make their countries better. Children see that leadership begins with the willingness to act and take responsibility, not with a title or age. 

Democracy through everyday life 

Democracy is shown through familiar experiences: family discussions, collective decisions, and children’s votes. Readers learn to: • listen and negotiate; • respect others’ opinions; • understand that choices have consequences; • participate actively, not passively. Citizenship is presented as a lived practice, not a distant theory. 

Family as a model society 

Set in a family with two boys and two girls, the story models an inclusive society where every voice matters. The dynamics of discussion, compromise, and shared decisions help children understand the value of participation. 

Author’s perspective

Iryna Kotlyarevskaya—Bachelor of Philosophy, Master of Political Science, and mother of four— combines academic expertise with parental experience. This allows her to present complex topics—power, voting, democracy—in a way children understand and adults appreciate. 

Small steps lead to big change

The book invites reflection on honesty, justice, and responsibility. It reminds readers that every voice matters, every action counts, and small steps today can lead to meaningful change tomorrow.

“The girl who decided to become president” by Iryna Kotlyarevska, Warsaw: European world, 2025.