ŷ������

“I am more than me��
I am we.��

This week, my husband and I and our 2 cardigan corgis, Oliver and Oscar took a short trip up the coast of California. We decided to walk in Monterey (Steinbeck Country), before settling in for two nights in Carmel-by-the-sea. This was our first overnight trip together in five years. It was also our first dog-friendly hotel experience. We stayed at the Cypress Inn, which use to be co-owned by late actress and animal activist, Doris Day. Her movies play on a television screen in the lobby.

I loved being in Carmel. Be-ing in nature amongst the white-sands, sparkly ocean, walkable, dog-friendly beach. The shops all within walking distance. And, it was at one of those shops, Pilgrim’s Way Community Bookstore & Secret Garden that I found this book.

This book teaches self-care. Self-love. Self-understanding. And, just how all of that makes us available to be there for others, “…because I do not exist alone; I am part of something bigger than myself.��

The book has a formidable, healing, and dynamic message for both parents, teachers and children to learn, set amongst colorful, bright and descriptive illustrations.

It’s message shares that we are more than just being me, because “I am we.�� That we are a community. We are not alone on this journey.

The messages are powerful and passionate. Considering the world today, this book would be a great reminder for adults, about the importance of community. Recognizing how we learn and gain from our diversity. And, the significance of humanity working together.

“Connection is how I grow. Connection is how we grow. Connected is what we are: part of a worldwide community, diverse and magnificent, kind and accepting, supportive and present. All of us important, none of us alone.��

We took this short trip, not just as an opportunity for us to celebrate our current freedom from health drama that we have experienced for the past couple of years, but to also escape the current ugliness of what we bear witness to here in America. I wish America could see the value of this book’s messages right now. In fact, everyone across the world would benefit from this book’s messages. It is books like this that would be perfect as required reading in schools.

Be sure and read the Author’s Note which includes activities for building community.

In closing, it seems only fitting that I should post this review on Valentine’s Day. ♥️A day of love. For ourselves. For each other. For our communities.

Reading level: Ages 4+ - Grade Level: Preschool+