Being a Dog: A Tail of Mindfulness

PreS-Gr 1--"Can you be like a dog?" With this question, this charming title invites readers to practice a number of mindful behaviors, such as "BE-ing" in the moment, by following a dog's daily activities with its young owner through the changing seasons. As the playful pup greets its friend in the morning, it models engaging with one's body by stretching, eating, and drinking. The duo play on the playground, splash in puddles, roll in the snow, all while demonstrating connecting to the environment and the five senses. However, while "feel what you're feeling" is valid and important advice, children might need a slight amendment to "bark if you're worried," "growl if you're angry," or "yowl if you're sad," lest they take these directives even a bit too literally. Oswald's funny and appealing mixed media illustrations perfectly capture cute canine antics. Appended at the end under the heading "Take a Mindful Nature Walk with a Friend'' is a quasi-chart of specific suggestions for each of the senses through spring, summer, fall, and winter. The very last page features a guide to "Mindful Breathing Exercise" that acknowledges having negative emotions and suggests using deep breathing as a coping method. VERDICT Mindfulness is not an easy concept to practice or teach at any age, but this book is a wonderfully accessible introduction to a challenging skill.--Yelena Voysey