I recently finished reading "I Am Peace" by the New York Times bestselling author and illustrator, who has also created other notable titles like "I Am Human" and "I Am Love." Drawn to the concept of mindfulness and parenting strategies, I felt compelled to dive into this delightful children’s book that aims to teach young ones about being present and managing emotions. Given the increasing anxiety levels in children today, this book seemed like a gentle but effective tool to introduce kids to mindfulness.
As I flipped through the beautifully illustrated pages, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of calm. The vibrant and whimsical illustrations perfectly conveyed the themes of peace and mindfulness. The writing style is gentle, poetic, and simple enough for both children and adults to grasp. The book emphasizes being present, with lines like, “I give myself a moment. I take a breath,” which I found resonant not just for kids but also for stressed-out caregivers.
One standout feature is how inclusively the main character is drawn. As highlighted by other readers, this character seamlessly embraces both genders, which I found refreshing. It opens a dialogue for children to identify with the virtues of peace and mindfulness without the limits of traditional gender roles.
In terms of effectiveness, many reviews echoed my sentiments. For instance, a reviewer noted it as a "golden" choice for teaching children calm and peace. They highlighted the book’s charm, particularly an endearing illustration of a child hugging a tree. I couldn’t help but adore that moment as well. It beautifully symbolizes the connection between nature and inner peace, making it relatable for kids and adults alike.
However, an important point to consider is that while this book is a wondrous introduction to mindfulness, it may be too simplistic for older children. For example, one reader mentioned it being a great social-emotional learning (SEL) tool but noted that it might not hold the attention of a child beyond the early elementary years. It serves as a delightful starter book, but might not foster deep discussions for older kids.
Another minor drawback, as pointed out by some, is that the book’s brevity, at just 32 pages, may leave some readers yearning for a bit more depth. While I appreciated the straightforward approach, I could see how a lengthier narrative might engage older children more fully, weaving deeper lessons into the story.
Despite these considerations, I found "I Am Peace" to be a terrific read that effectively meets its purpose. It truly serves as a "gentle, helpful tool for cultivating kid mindfulness," as noted in its official description. The book encourages children to connect with their feelings and surroundings without judgment. Moreover, it fosters an understanding of how to cope with the sometimes overwhelming emotions that come with growing up.
In conclusion, I would highly recommend "I Am Peace"—whether you’re a parent wanting to enrich your child’s library or a teacher seeking to introduce mindfulness in the classroom. This book is a beautifully illustrated guide that makes a wonderful gift for families seeking to raise mindful, happy children. It met my expectations and then some. I left my reading experience not only feeling peaceful, but also excited to share these sentiments with the children in my life. Every bookshelf in a conscious family or classroom should include it!
Discover tranquility and mindfulness in “I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness.” >>