Published: 2020
Genre: Nonfiction, Religion, Buddhism, Memoir, Picture Book, Autobiography, Biography, Philosophy
Audience: Elementary
Summary: For the first time ever, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate His Holiness the Dalai Lama addresses children directly, sharing lessons of peace and compassion, told through stories of his own childhood. One of today’s most inspiring world leaders was once an ordinary child named Lhamo Thondup. In a small village in Tibet, his mother was his first great teacher of compassion. In everyday moments from his childhood, young readers begin to see that important lessons are all around us, and that they, too, can grow to truly understand them.
With simple, powerful text, the Dalai Lama shares the universalist teachings of treating one another with compassion, which Bao Luu illustrates beautifully in vibrant color. In an increasingly confusing world, The Seed of Compassion offers guidance and encouragement on how we all might bring more kindness to it.
Review: Although this book is advertised for children ages 4-8 it would be appropriate for a more mature audience. I would use this text in the classroom along with a unit on world religions or Southeast Asia. This could also be on effective guide for a group or class that needs a reminder for kindness, friendship and empathy. His Holiness shares words of wisdom meant especially for young people.
