“The Beginning” is how Lisa McDonald ends her book, a technique that completely caught my thoughts by surprise and reverberated the lessons of her story in my mind. Passion-Filled Everland’s Little Boy Gan is a creative collaboration of indelible images coupled with a timeless story that results in a delightful literary asset for 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 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.

Within the enchanted forest of Everland is a cast including 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 on his walk contributes to his happy thoughts; his kind words come from feeling comfortable inside 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 fanciful friends.

One can’t help but slow down and think how peaceful Everland is, as the visuals create an angelic vision of the characters’ interaction. Illustrative viewpoints float whimsically in perspective and are zoomed 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 of 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 of 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 eastern 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 capable of linking illustrations to concise yet powerful messages, poetically using phrases and dialogue to convey lessons on building self-confidence and wisdom in children. Small children.