The Horn Book Guide

RELIGION

Hanh, Thich Nhat

Is Nothing Something?: Kids' Questions and Zen Answers About Life, Death, Family, Friendship, and Everything in Between

48 pp. | Plum Blossom | April, 2014 | Trade ISBN 978-1-937006-65-5 $16.95

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Jessica McClure. A Buddhist monk calmly answers myriad questions that "real children" have asked him: "What is mindfulness?" "How can I control my temper?" "Why do kids watch TV?" The responses are astute, insightful, kid-friendly, and, as promised, Zen-infused--making Buddhist principles approachable and relevant for children of any background. It's a shame McClure wasn't more mindful and subtle with her overly chipper animal illustrations.

Reviewer: Katrina Hedeen