Book Description

This remarkable book explores the history and practice of Buddhism, beginning with the life of Buddha and continuing to the spread of Buddhism from Asia to the Western world. Beautiful photographs show the rituals, artifacts, and architecture that are important to the Buddhist tradition. ... Read more

Book Description

Sarah Conover's collection of traditional Buddhist tales leads us to the kind of implicit understanding of ourselves and others that only stories can provide. Following the Buddha through his various transformations, these clarified and often humorous narrative journeys open the ancient master's profound and gentle teachings to persons of all ages, religions, races, and ideological persuasions. Over and over, this marvelous book tells us, "Let go of your anger, your fear, your greedy desire. Embrace gladness. Follow the path." The stories form a wondrous pageant: of elephants, monkeys, monks, and men working through foolishness toward wisdom and delight.

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Reviews (3)

Water in the Jar
I bought this book thinking that it was one of those gifts that my son probably wouldn't like but that because it was a children's book I could get away with buying it indirectly for myself. Sort of a back-door self gift, at a time when I couldn't afford to buy myself something. Well, I was right about my liking it, but wrong about my son--he liked it too, and still does. We have read and re-read many of our favorite stories (I tend to get in reading grooves sometimes, like the period during which I couldn't read anything but stories from "Interpreter of Maladies").

If you have Paul Reps' famous "Zen Flesh, Zen Bones," you will recognize many of the stories in "Kindess" from there, but in a lushly expanded form. I am impressed by how Sarah Conover is able to expand a simple Buddhist tale without diluting it, and add detail without dragging it out. Everything seems necessary, even though I'm used to shorter versions of the same tales. This is the sign of good writing to me. Not all of the tales are long, though, so you can use it as a bedtime read regardless of the length of time you have available; there are stories you can read in 2 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes--whatever your time frame. What's nice, too, about the book is that it grows with the child. A year ago, my son's favorite tales were the simpler ones (though all are complex in the Buddhist way) such as "Great Joy the Ox" about kindness and "The Dung Beetle" which warns of the dangers of hubris. Now his favorite is a more conceptual story, "The Monk's Heavy Load," which treats the idea of being weighed down by resentments and memories.

Besides being delightful to read, the book is gorgeous to look at and hold. Only the cover illustration is multi-colored; those inside are sepia-toned, but this matters not a whit. Valerie Wahl's illustrations are carefully drawn to capture, (at most, one per story) precisely the key moment of each tale. An aphorism precedes each story also reflecting the theme of each tale. The pages are slick, heavy and a Zen pleasure to handle and turn, as long as the book lies flat on a table. The only negative point about the book's design is that its odd shape (a horizontal rather than vertical rectangle) and weight make it awkward for reading in bed. Hardcover children's picture books in this shape are easy to read, but this is a glossy paged book of 160+ pages which makes it both heavy and floppy (at least in the paperback edition I have). We've worked hard to keep ours in good shape, and we've succeeded, but it might be harder for families with lots of children (or less book obsessed parents).

I can't really imagine a person not liking this book, and if I could, I wouldn't want to meet him anyway. These tales drop lessons softly, the way fragrant blossoms fall from trees. They introduce children to Buddhism, which can't be a bad thing at any time, and can only help things these days. If you have no one for whom to buy this book, then do what I did and buy it for yourself and if, like me, you're worried that the child in your life may not like it, you very well might be proven wrong--much to your delight.

kindness is the best book ever written!
If you're like me and are sick of hearing about Harry Potter from some forty year old guy in a coffee shop than don't go to a coffee shop, stay home, and read this book. Sure its probably aimed for the young kids but c'mon, what's the last thing you did out of kindness? Giving your loose change to the bum outside your office doesn't count. This book shows off some amazing stories that one shouldn't discount. Written by the intelligent and very beautiful Sarah Conover, this book is sure to leave you with a smile on your face so wide that it makes the old woman sitting next to you on the T nervous. Sure get it for your kids, get two or three copies, but get one to fit in your briefcase too. One could learn a thing or two, especially you.

Beautiful and thoughtful tales for children
I have been reading (and rereading) these beautiful Buddhist stories to my children, ages 6 and 8, every night. Rewritten from the traditional, this version is child-centric, sensitively written, thought (and conversation) provoking and actually relate to everyday life. My intention was to read one per night but my children beg me to read "Just one more. Just one more". In spite of the fact that I am no Buddhist, it is hard to imagine a child, parent, teacher or educator who wouldn't benefit from reading this delightful, well written book. ... Read more

Book Description

"In a sort of story-within-a-story form, Lee presents six short Jatakas, or 'birth stories,' drawn from Buddhist literature...The appealing character of the monkey will pull children into the tales, which convey lessons in a direct yet gentle way that is never preachy. The accompanying linocut illustrations are lovely."-Booklist
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Reviews (4)

My Children Loved this Book!
My nine year old daughter and seven year old son loved this book. I have an eleven year old son who wasn't too interested. If you want a gentle introduction to Buddhist thought, or simply want to broaden your children's horizons, this is an excellent resource. Sadly, it is pretty short, but the illustrations are excellent and the stories profound.

Great family reading
I bought this book to read with my 8 yr old son at bedtime. The book is very well written with the language being both accessible and engaging for young children. My son also loved the illustrations which have a wonderful clarity and warmth. Each Jataka we read gave us a great opportunity to talk about kindness, fear, greed and the other myriad feelings we have every day. Best of all, after we finished the book my son went back and read it again himself. Which is a big deal for him since he usually goes for Captain Underpants before anything else.

Great book for children and parents to read together
Both my 3 and 7 year olds enjoy these stories. It is a great way to start discussions on topics like telling the truth, trust, careful thought, friendship and kindness. The illustrations are wonderful and inspire the imagination.

I once was a monkey
My five year old son loved this book with jakatas, or tales, that buddha told. The jakatas are all told through the stories and lessons that buddha learned through his life as different animals: a monkey, lion, dove, and jackal. There are valuable lessons learned and I would highly recommend this as an introduction for children to buddhism. ... Read more

Book Description

"Breathing in, I calm my whole body. Breathing out, my whole body is calm. Breathing in, I am blooming like a flower. Breathing out, I feel fresh."

Preschool children learn the beauty and power of mindfulness through conscious breathing.Presenting the Buddha's basic teachings in accessible and modern language, the text is drawn from Thich Nhat Hanh's Dharma talks given to young people. Children learn that breathing helps them enjoy deeper relationships with their friends and family: • color illustrations of trees, frogs, crickets, and birds are paired with mindfulness verses (gathas) • the gathas help children direct their excitement and anger in a peaceful direction ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A thoughtful, reverently spiritual book
Each Breath A Smile by Sister Thuc Nghiem (Susan Swan) is a delightful picturebook based on the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Zen master who has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This gentle and charming book, illustrated in cheerful pastel colors, shows children how to relax and enjoy happiness through mindful breathing. "Breathing in, I see myself as a mountain. Breathing out, I feel solid. Mountain, sold. / Breathing in, I see myself as space. Breathing out, I feel free. Space, free." A thoughtful, reverently spiritual book, highly recommended picturebook for young readers. ... Read more

Book Description

The magical story of how Ganesh, the son of Shiva and Parvati, was brought back to life with the head of an elephant

• The story of one of the most beloved characters in Indian lore, made accessible for Western children ages 6 to 9 • Illustrated throughout with paintings from the classic Indian tradition • Full color throughout

Any Indian child can tell you how the beloved god Ganesh got his elephant's head-now American children can know as well. For centuries Indian children have grown up hearing Ganesh's story-how his mother, Parvati (an incarnation of the great mother goddess), created a small boy from sandalwood soap and commanded that he guard the palace against all intruders while she took her bath. How her husband, Shiva (the fearsome god of destruction), didn't take kindly to being barred from his own home. How Shiva beheaded the boy during the cosmic war that followed, but then, when he realized that the balance of the entire universe was at stake, brought the boy back to life by grafting an elephant's head onto his body and made him the people's intercessor against the powers of destruction.

Ganesh's timeless story teaches children about the steadfast power of dedication to duty, the awe-inspiring power of a mother's love for her child, and the gentle power of compassion, which holds the world together. Accompanied by rich, color illustrations prepared according to the traditional Hindu canon, How Ganesh Got His Elephant Head will transport children to a magical world filled with ancient wisdom. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A wonderful collection of classic Indian stories
Kids ages 6-9 who are sampling multicultural folklore will relish How Ganesh Got His Elephant Head, a wonderful collection of classic Indian stories. Pieter Weltevrede's bright full-page color drawings enhances these Indian classic folk tales, which should be part of any serious picturebook multicultural collection. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Celebrated children's-book illustrator Demi puts the Buddha's life story into words any child can enjoy. Even more, children will love the lush, meticulously painted scenes, rendered in traditional Asian fashion yet as light and whimsical asCalvin and Hobbes. (Ages 9 to 12.) ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Moving, Great Book!
This book tells the story of Buddha so clearly and precisely that it taught me a lot that I previously didn't know or understand. I am hoping to share this book with my students during the Buddhist New Year in April. ... Read more

Book Description

Many of today's teenagers are tired of the pressure to compete and consume-and are looking for a different way to live their lives. This book offers an alternative: the 2,500-year old practice of Buddhism.

Written in a style that will have immediate appeal to young "seekers" and those wanting to understand the ancient teachings, this book addresses such relevant topics as peer pressure, emotional difficulties, stress, fostering peace, and even protecting the environment. For everyone looking for self-help, self-esteem, and self-awareness, this book offers advice on:

€ Discovering truth in a world of hype
€ Finding peace amid the ups and downs of life
€ Accepting ourselves
€ Working with difficult emotions
€ How to meditate
€ Dealing with temptations and making the right decisions about sex and drugs
€ Advice on volunteering, working for peace, and protecting the environment ... Read more

Reviews (5)

This book worked miracles for our 15 years old teenager
Our son was in very hard times, struggling to come to terms with the low values (if values) of modern society, modern music and his own background and values. With 14 he went into extrem aggression and anger. He sought refuge in hard rap, which on one side helped to work anger off, but fueled it from another side.

Since he started to read (and practice) this book, he changed tremendously.

I highly recommend this book to any teenager (or parents who wish to find help) with the wish for help.

10 stars!

wake up sleepyhead!
This is a wonderful introduction to Buddhism. I have been sitting for several years and I am closer to middle-aged than teen-aged, but this book has a concise yet scholarly nature that presents Buddhist practice beautifully.

I want to buy this book for everyone I know, from my 13 year old god-daughter to my 93 year old grandfather. Diana Winston illuminates the beauty and difficulty of living honestly in the world. If I were to change one thing, I would make the subtitle read; "a Buddhist guide for teens and those who were once teens"

Thanks Diana!

Fantastic Book!
I was so excited to read a book that really speaks to me. I am a teen who is interested in spirituality and when I found this book I felt like I could learn so much about Buddhism and how it really applies to my life. I learned about meditation and am trying it in my home, and I see ways I can be less judgemental and live with higher integrity.

Finally something for my children
This is exactly what Iv'e been waiting for in terms of my children finding some spirituality....great job to mrs. winston

LET THE REVOLUTION BEGIN
THIS BOOK IS THE PATH TO FREEDOM! IT EXPLAINS THE DHARMA IN SIMPLE AND PRECISE TERMS. IT'S A HIGHLY ACCESSIBLE AND PRACTICAL GUIDE TO THE SPIRITUAL JOURNEY. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BUDDHISM AND WILLING TO DO THE WORK TO FREE YOURSELF FROM CONFUSION THIS IS THE BOOK TO READ. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A collection of Buddhist moral tales from India, Burma, Tibet, China, and Japan, The Wisdom of the Crows and Other Buddhist Tales is as enchanting as it is exotic. Vivid illustrations from tales such as "The Foolish Boy" and "Useless Work" depict the characters in traditional dress, and the page margins of every story are decorated with distinctive, intricate designs. Some of these parables are as short as half a page, such as the Zen story of the four young monks who take a temporary vow of silence only to inadvertently violate it one after the other, with the last one declaring triumphantly, "I am the only one who hasn't talked." Others are several pages long and full of magic and adventure, like "Goodheart and the Goddess of the Forest." In this story, a boy with an excessive penchant for generosity is sent away by his father. On his travels his meddle is tested by a giant, a witch, and a conniving uncle, and his forthright sincerity carries him through each episode until he is able to live happily ever after with his bride, the goddess of the forest, as stars in the sky. All of these stories are lightheartedly retold for children and a delight to read.--Brian Bruya ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Not for 4 year olds
I got this for my 4 year old daughter. I would suggest waiting a year or two longer. Some of the stories are long and overly complex and minimally illustrated. The short ones are often hard to interpret to a young child (the story of the two monks carrying the young woman across the water for example, my child is a little young to get much out of a story who's moral is something along the lines of 'obey the spirit of the rule, not the rule').

Buy this book!
This is a great book for children and adults! The stories are well written and well illustrated - I bought it for a child but kept it for myself! Buy it - the stories are very meaningful .......

Diverse stories of Zen parables with varying lengths.
The book includes 13 Zen parables and folktales from Japan, India, China, Tibet and Burma. It is interesting but the length and complexity vary a lot from story to story. Smaller children (4-6 years old) may be ready for the shorter ones while this book needs more illustration to attract their attention. A good book overall. ... Read more

Book Description

A guide for navigating the teen years, Buddha in Your Backpack is for young people who want to learn more about Buddhism or for those who simply want to understand what’s going on inside themselves and in the world around them. Buddha in Your Backpack tells Buddha’s life story in a fashion teens will relate to, describing Buddha as a young rebel not satisfied with the answers of his elders. It then introduces Buddha’s core teachings with chapters like "All About Me" and "Been There, Why’d I Do That?" The author presents thoughtful and spiritual insights on school, dating, hanging out, jobs, and other issues of special interest to teens — inviting readers to look inside themselves for answers. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An Easy Read...Buddhism Plain and Simple
As a 40-something mother of 2 teenagers, I first picked up this book at the local library to pass time while my children researched school projects. As someone who has just spent the last 2 months with the works of Chogyam Trungpa, I was ready for a little "lite" spiritual reading. What I found was a book that, yes, was simplistic in word yet still provided ample room for contemplation. Buddha in Your Backpack may be geared towards teens, but the objects of consideration presented in this book can appeal to someone of any age who is beginning their search for insight on the Eight-Fold Path and the Four Noble Truths.

No better Buddha than this
If your looking for a new path in life or just looking for a good read about self improvement this book is perfect. I have been searching for long time for a I have been searching for something to relate Budhism to me and Franz Metcalf has written it. It does not preach about buddhism but relates to it every day things in the life of a teen, such as homework, relationships, bullys etc. It also includes quotes and thoughts of teen buddhist so you can relate your thoughts with them. But it also teaches the basics of buddhism like meditation, the four noble truths, the eight fold path and how to use them in daily life. I would HIGHLY recomend this book to anyone intrested in Buddhism or a great gift idea for a teen intrested in Buddhism.

I could only put five stars put this book deserves many more. I could not suggest a better book to open the world of buddhism to teens. ... Read more

Book Description

This retelling of one of India’s most sacred texts, the Ramayana, recounts how the great monkey army helped save Princess Sita from a demon king. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Amazing
This book has an amazing story and amazing pictures. It's great~

Beautiful, exciting artwork and a bold tale
This telling of the Hanuman myth is fascinating for kids and adults alike. The tale of a monkey who battles the ultimate evil is vividly illustrated, and unlike many children's versions of myths, doesn't pull any punches. My 4-year-old son absolutely loves it, and I enjoy reading it to him. The pictures are dramatic and colorful, in kind of a Frank Frazzeta kinda way, and they fit the story perfectly. Highly recommended.

Vivid art, inspiring story
My kids (5 and 9) and I love this book. The artwork is vivid with wonderful details. They respond to the humor, the magic, the characters--both frightening and heroic, the great adventures and the selfless actions in this great story. I've seen one other illustrated version of this story in a collection and found the pictures to be weak and unimaginative. These paintings are gorgeous. This was the first book I reached for to read to my children after the WTC attacks. The children were reassured by this tale of good triumphing over evil.

A Story of adventure, friendship and love for all ages
My 3rd-grade daughter already enjoys the Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology and has memorized many of their stories. In "Hanuman," she found a wonderful introduction to the Hindu sacred text Ramayana. All she knows is she fell in love with a neat story, wrote about it in her journal at school ("If magic were real, I would make all Hanuman's adventures come true."), and re-reads it daily. A great read-aloud for younger kids too.

An amazing combination of adventure and religion
The classic tale of Hanuman and his devotion to Rama is brought to life through lush pictures with no attempt to edit the full story, as many children's books do. The extent of the details of Hanuman's struggle is marvelous. This may be the most moving book I've read all year. Simply breathtaking. ... Read more

Book Description

A Chinese family prepares for their New Year festivities they decorate the house with flowers, then set off firecrackers to scare away bad spirits and welcome the coming year. Family and friends sit down together for a festive dinner, then go outside to watch the parade of dragon dancers. The festival ends on its final night with a display of colored lanterns. Festival Time books depict the activities of typical families, as Mom, Dad, and children celebrate holidays that have special religious or cultural significance for them. Cheerfully attractive color illustrations supplement a simply-told story of the holiday's origins and a description of the festivities that are part of that holiday. Festival Time books can be read aloud to toddlers, but are easy enough for many first and second graders to read to themselves. Each book's final two-page spread is written mainly for parents, offering suggestions for ways to communicate the holiday's meaning to kids. (Ages 3-7) ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (3)

a perfect book for this saber rattling period
This book is both beautifully written and illustrated. The Dalai Lama's message that love, not war, is the answer to the world's problems is presented quite well. Children will enjoy recognizing that this great man once was a child like them.

Highly spiritual book with a eye on human rights.
This book will be shared with my students. They have often endured many hardships in their lives and would enjoy hearing others' stories. The Dalai Lama is a very important person in the world and can not be ignored.

Complex story told clearly and with beautiful illustrations
Demi tells a potentially complicated story with clarity and simplicity. The illustrations are beautiful and evocative of the magical land in which the story is set. Where the takeover by Chinese Communist forces is concerned, you may need to fill your child in on some of the political background. Otherwise, the book is very accessible. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

Written in a highly accessible and skimmable style
There Is Nothing Wrong With You: For Teens is a spiritual, self-help book written to help not just young people from emotionally abusive backgrounds, but all people who have learned to unfairly and over-harshly criticize themselves. There Is Nothing Wrong With You: For Teens is a positive affirmation of the good people have inside, even if they have grave difficulty in seeing it themselves. The atypical typeface resembles hand-printed lettering, conveying emotion but remaining eminently readable. Enthusiastically recommended and a welcome addition to the growing library self-help literature, There Is Nothing Wrong With You: For Teens is written in a highly accessible and skimmable style, for readers of all attention spans. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great read for children and adults
Accurate ancient Hindu story, very nicely done for children and many adults. ... Read more

Book Description

This children's titles shows in wonderfully intricate and vivid illustrations a tale of this religious founder's childhood. A message of kindness, love, and unselfishness. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

This book was great for teaching my daughter about buddhism!
I could tell that Chi-Lou, my daughter, was very interested in this!! We had taught her many thing about Buddha, but she learn it best when it was tell to her in story like this book! Even I liked this children book. Great for kid, and great for spirituality. I highly recomend book! ... Read more