The Golden Rule by Ilene Cooper, Illustrated by Gabi Swiatowska, copyright 2007
I debated about recommending this book. Not because I have an issue with the golden rule. I have an issue with books that hammer the reader with a message. I'm not sure if this book is preaching, or trying to be very clear for the sake of its young audience. But, because of a discussion I've had recently with my friend Jana, I thought I would go ahead and share this book with those of you who are always looking for books that *explain and illustrate* difficult concepts for your kids or students.
So, caveat number one is that this is a lesson-based book, loosely in the form of a story. Caveat number two is that the major theme of The Golden Rule (besides, of course, the golden rule) is that all religions and cultures of the world have a tenet similar to this to regulate how humans treat one another. If you are averse to bringing up this commonaliy of Christianity, Judaism, Native American beliefs, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, then this book is not for you.
Now, onto the review!
The book opens with a boy and his grandfather staring at a billboard which reads, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The boy asks his grandfather to read the words to him, and what they mean, and thus begins the discussion about treating others with respect. After the grandfather shares the beliefs of many world religions concerning this moral principle, he and the boy discuss practical applications, such as smiling at the new girl at school to make her feel less afraid.
Polish artist Swiatowska's unusual and moody paintings manage to convey the seriousness of the topic without going overboard, yet she includes some lighthearted illustrations with great child-appeal for balance. She also introduces iconic images from some of the religious traditions referenced. An author's note clarifies that she simplified the language in some of the interpretations of the golden rule, and supplies the "original forms" (which for Christianity is listed as the King James Bible, which of course made me laugh, as it is far later than the "original form" and in a different language). I particuarly like part of the Shawnee Native American form: "therefore, add to his days of happiness as you add to your own."
On that note, may all of you have many happy days.
So, caveat number one is that this is a lesson-based book, loosely in the form of a story. Caveat number two is that the major theme of The Golden Rule (besides, of course, the golden rule) is that all religions and cultures of the world have a tenet similar to this to regulate how humans treat one another. If you are averse to bringing up this commonaliy of Christianity, Judaism, Native American beliefs, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, then this book is not for you.
Now, onto the review!
The book opens with a boy and his grandfather staring at a billboard which reads, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The boy asks his grandfather to read the words to him, and what they mean, and thus begins the discussion about treating others with respect. After the grandfather shares the beliefs of many world religions concerning this moral principle, he and the boy discuss practical applications, such as smiling at the new girl at school to make her feel less afraid.
Polish artist Swiatowska's unusual and moody paintings manage to convey the seriousness of the topic without going overboard, yet she includes some lighthearted illustrations with great child-appeal for balance. She also introduces iconic images from some of the religious traditions referenced. An author's note clarifies that she simplified the language in some of the interpretations of the golden rule, and supplies the "original forms" (which for Christianity is listed as the King James Bible, which of course made me laugh, as it is far later than the "original form" and in a different language). I particuarly like part of the Shawnee Native American form: "therefore, add to his days of happiness as you add to your own."
On that note, may all of you have many happy days.
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