Reader's Choice Book Awards Review
A magical story about kindness and compassion, with a unique, yoga-inspired twist.
The Magic Peach Tree, part of the Yoga Storytelling Adventure series by authors Kathe Hudson and Melanie Moyer is a creative, fun, and interactive illustrated picture book, that combines a traditional Chinese folktale with yoga movement. Young children can read the story, and then retell the story with yoga poses. The book will help children not only to express themselves creatively, but also to engage in physical practice that is beneficial to health and wellbeing.
The story, adapted from a Chinese wisdom tale, follows an elderly man who ambles into a village looking for food. He is hungry, but a stall holder refuses to give him a small peach. A young girl shows the elderly man kindness and buys him a peach. After he eats the peach, the man plants the seed in the ground and a peach tree grows, feeding the entire village. The story demonstrates the importance of compassion and will encourage young readers to show kindness towards their neighbors.
The Yoga Storytelling Adventure series is a unique and innovative concept, sure to appeal to young readers who enjoy traditional folk tales and creative activities. The book Includes a Chinese word guide, to help readers develop an appreciation of a different language. Each yoga pose and breathing technique is described, with a visual image to accompany each pose, to guide young readers on their own creative yoga journey. The illustrations by Cher Jiang are stunning and complement the traditional folk tale perfectly.
There is also a bonus grilled peach recipe at the end of the book, for those who are inspired by the food in the story!
Star rating: 5 Stars
Summary: A creative, fun, and interactive illustrated picture book, that combines a traditional Chinese folktale with yoga movement.
Heather Prejean, LCSW-BACS, Executive Director, Hospice of Acadiana's Center for Loss and Transition
If you are expecting a book fully engaging to the senses, immersed in culture, and filled with beautiful illustrations, this book will not disappoint! The Magic Peach Tree creatively intertwines the lessons of body, mind, and soul care we so often forget to tend. You will be delighted with how much education this charming book has hidden in its story. Don’t be surprised to find that you and your child may want to frequently read through this precious gem!