Zen Ties Review

     My family has always been drawn to timeless stories that provide us with the simple lessons reaffirming the importance of compassion, friendship and the ties that bind us to one another.  It was of no surprise to me that when we recently received  Zen Ties, the companion book to Caldicott Honor Book and New York Times Best Selling Author Jon J. Muth's  critically acclaimed 2005 release, Zen Shorts, we were quickly drawn into this beautifully illustrated book.


     As the story begins, the warm, lazy days of summer have arrived, heralding the visit of Stillwater the giant panda's Haiku-speaking young nephew Koo.  Imparting his gentle wisdom on his nephew, Stillwater encourages Koo and the neighborhood children, Addy, Michael and Karl to help Miss. Whitaker, an elderly, seemingly grouchy neighbor in need.  At first, with hesitation, the group prepares soup and cheerful drawings to lift Miss. Whitaker's spirits.  The children soon discover that their efforts are rewarded in unexpected ways.  Mr. Muth's beautifully compelling prose and illustrations reiterate to both his young and older reader the value of reaching out to others while finding the time to appreciate the moments, however big or small, in our lives.

     This gentle tale quietly reaffirms the importance of the unique ties that bind us to one another.  A definite must read!

Scholastic
Ages 5 to 7
$17.99 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 978-0439634
Accelerated Reader book level: 2.7