“The Beginning” is how Lisa McDonald ends her book, a technique that completely caught my thoughts off guard and reverberated the lessons of her story in my mind. Passion-Filled Everland’s Little Boy Gan is a creative collaboration of indelible images paired with a timeless story that makes for a delightful literary asset to any personal collection or library.
Perfect for reading to a child before bed, or for anyone to take a few minutes throughout the day, McDonald’s taps into the timeless power of gratitude to amplify awareness of the moment and accentuate the smaller things in life that, according to her, have the greatest enjoyment.
Inside the enchanted forest of Everland is a cast that includes a talking willow, a caterpillar, a deer, a frog, a goose, a turtle, and a squirrel who ask Gan the same question: “What makes you glow with happiness? ” Drawn by Gan’s glory of being, each of the characters learns a lesson derived from Gan’s peace, love, and gratitude. Gan’s bounce in his walk contributes to his happy thoughts; his kind words come from feeling comfortable in his own skin; his humble stillness allows him to listen to the universe. These are all very important Zen techniques of self-realization, and by reading this book, children can develop these skills by watching the lessons Gan tells his fantasy friends.
One can’t help but slow down and think about how peaceful Everland is, as the visuals create an angelic vision of character interaction. Illustrative viewpoints whimsically float in perspective and zoom in using highly creative art. Gan is humble and clear with his answers to questions as to why he is so happy. Those answers are found in everyone; only in Gan’s case, he understands the “why” at such a young age, showing other youngsters that wisdom at any age can be achieved if given time for quiet meditation. One learns to appreciate the blessings that the “here and now” creates.
This book is one in a series of other children’s books written by Lisa McDonald. In Little Boy Gan, she created a piece that stands on its own merits for its integrity, but fits into her message from other works like a puzzle for young minds to make sense of life’s lessons. It is a spiritual book although it does not mention God, a philosophical book without citing the oriental prophets and a classic of the image in soft but detailed illustrations.
In the competitive children’s book market, Lisa McDonald has established herself as a visionary author able to link illustrations to concise yet powerful messages, poetically using phrases and dialogue to convey lessons on developing self-confidence and wisdom in others. Small children.