Julie Banderas, the Fox News anchor, has released a new children’s book titled "A Monumental Mistake." In a recent appearance on "Fox & Friends," she discussed the book’s important message about respect, which she feels is crucial in today’s society where she believes respect is at an "all-time low."
The story follows a group of animal friends—Fiona the lioness, Mobi the bear, Arthur the lion, and Cassius the tiger—as they discover a forgotten statue in Wiggamore Woods. Their reactions vary; some show respect for the monument, while others mock it and throw stones. This behavior leads to a hard lesson about the importance of respecting history and listening to friends.
Banderas explained that the book aims to teach children about the value of respecting both history and their peers. She noted that the characters learn to appreciate the significance of the monument and the importance of heeding their friends’ warnings. In the end, they are forgiven by a character named General Wiggamore.
The inspiration for the book came from Banderas’s observations of historic monuments being removed or vandalized during the Biden administration. She expressed concern that erasing history does not make it right and emphasized the need to teach children about the complexities of the past.
Banderas partnered with BRAVE Books, a Christian publishing company that focuses on instilling values in children. This is her second book with them, following her 2022 title "Fina’s Fantastical Fort," which aimed to teach resilience.
She hopes that both children and parents will find value in her book. Banderas believes it serves as a reminder for parents to instill respect and humility in their children, especially in a time when she sees rising tensions and divisions in society. She has made it a point in her household to discourage the use of the word "hate."
"A Monumental Mistake" is now available for purchase, and Banderas encourages families to read it together to foster discussions about respect and understanding in today’s world.