Be Happy: A Little Book of Mindfulness

by Maddy Bard (Author) Emma Dodd (Illustrator)

Reading Level: K − 1st Grade

This heartwarming and inspirational book features two adorable dogs who share some tips on how to stay present and positive.

Hucky and Buzz are canine best friends who share thoughts, emotions, moods, and feelings that will resonate with every young child. In this sweet and simple book, readers can learn how to boost their confidence, positivity, and self-belief. Featuring the creators' own adorable dogs, and brought to life with Emma Dodd's enchanting illustrations, this is a gem of a guide for how kids can lead a healthy and happy life.

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Hardcover
$14.99

Kirkus

Two adorable pups have much to teach, if we listen. . . . An appealing primer on mindfulness for the youngest set.

Publishers Weekly

Two frolicsome and companionable dogs promote ways to "Be Happy" in this upbeat picture book, which offers a simple set of imperatives that link mindfulness to contentment. "Be Thankful," proposes bold text as the canines sniff dandelions and "appreciate the little things." "Believe in Yourself," encourages another page as the poodle and dachshund run across a bridge. While Bard acknowledges a range of emotions ("Sometimes it's OK to not feel OK"), some suggestions feel more moralistic than mindful ("Keep Busy/ Hucky and Buzz are happiest when they have plans for the day"). Outlined with loosely drawn black lines, Dodd's pups stand out against basic digital backdrops. Questions throughout encourage readers to reflect interactively on ways they can join Hucky and Buzz in their dogged pursuit of joy--a task that this book renders as seemingly easy. Ages 2-5. (Mar.)

Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Review quotes



Maddy Bard
Maddy Bard is an athletic coach and holistic practitioner. Her belief in the benefits of mindfulness meditation practices for children's mental health comes from her experience mentoring in schools. She is delighted to share these in her first book for children. Maddy lives with her husband and four children in Surrey, England.

Emma Dodd has created many books to critical acclaim. She works from a studio in England. When not working, she spends as much time with her family as they can surfing and walking in all weather.
Classification
Non-fiction
ISBN-13
9781536229769
Lexile Measure
-
Guided Reading Level
-
Publisher
Templar Books
Publication date
March 07, 2023
Series
-
BISAC categories
JNF053050 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Social Topics | Emotions & Feelings
JNF053160 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Social Topics | Self-Esteem & Self-Reliance
JNF024140 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Health & Daily Living | Mental Health
Library of Congress categories
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