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Friday, December 31, 2021

Loving Kindness, written by Deborah Underwood and illustrated by Tim Hopgood. Henry Holt and Company, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2021. $23.99 ages 2 and up

 


"She is a blessing. 

She is 
beautiful
just as 
she is. 

She is 
loved
and she
loves

As we turn the calendar to a new year tomorrow, let us hope that we can begin to find peace and contentment. It has been a year of strife and confusion for many. We need to honor all who share our world with us. 

This lovely new book begins with a blessing ... a tiny, beautiful baby to love and be loved. Mistakes made while growing are expected, as is the ability to dream, dance, and breathe. All the beauty of the earth that connects each one is right in front of us. That baby is nurtured by family in every way. 

Following that baby, the text turns to another blessing - a girl who is also allowed to make mistakes, to learn from them, and to grow in the warmth of the sun and all that the earth offers. Then, horses. They live their lives as the two children do. 

"They touch the earth, 
the earth that connects us all.
"

Ms. Underwood turns finally to all who inhabit the earth and find connections in living here. ALL have the same importance in finding worth. The goal is a peaceable kingdom where kindness is the great motivator. How's that for a universal goal for 2022?  Bright and colorful, Tim Hopgood's mixed-media artwork is soothing, affirming, full of grace and peace.                                                                                       

                                                                     

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