Zen Shorts
Author and Illustrator: Jon J Muth
Publication Date: 2005
Summary:  When Stillwater, the panda bear moves into a new neighborhood his umbrella brings him to a chance meeting with three friendly kids, Abby, Michael and Karl.  The next day Abby decides to go visit Stillwater, as they visit over cake he tells her a story of a poor man that gave gifts to a robber.  When Michael goes for a visit, Stillwater tells him the story of a farmer who knows that luck can be neither judge or predicted.  Finally, when Karl visits Stillwater he shares the tale of two monks, one of which carries the weight of a burden for far too long.  In the end Stillwater is excited he has made three new friends.
Parent Recommendation: This book is a great way to introduce your child to a new culture while sharing a heart warming story with them.  The three beautiful Japanese folk tales are accompanied by breathtaking watercolor illustrations. If children are interested the background and meaning of the word Zen is given in the back of the book, as well as, the history of the folk tales.  This book is great for any child.
Teacher Recommendations:  Zen Shorts is great for introducing students to a unique aspect of Japanese culture.  It is also great for discussing how other cultures use literature in unique ways.    The background and meaning of the word Zen is given in the back of the book. The history of the folk tales is also in the back of the book which makes Zen shorts great for discussing the history of story telling and folk tales.
Personal Note:  This is one of my new all time favorites!  I absolutely love everything about this book.  The story is darling, as well as, well written.  The illustrations are a combination of breathtaking watercolors and charming ink drawings.  I adore this book and students love every time I read it.  It’s perfect for teaching multiculturalism, morals or just as a bedtime story.  Just remember to practice your panda accent.

Summary: This is a story about a little boy whose mother bands him from painting after he destroys the house.  This kid just can't help himself, he finds the paint and before long his world is flooded with color once again.
Parent Recommendations:  I Ain't Gonna Paint No More is a fun, playful and energetic book.  It is set to the tone of the song It Ain't Gonna Rain No More.  This is a great book to read before bed or anytime.   If your child loves painting or any arts this is the book for them!
Teacher Recommendations: I Ain't Gonna Paint No More is a great book to read to students before a painting project.  However, this book offers so much more!   This book is set up in predictive rhyme and works well for reinforcing a rhyme lesson.  The book is also set up in pattern format so the students can actively participate in the read aloud.  Finally, the book has large writing and reinforces student’s literature skills.
Personal Note: This book is fun, delightful, charming and whimsical.  The illustrations will bring an instant smile to your face and have kids laughing hysterically.  The book is full of brilliant color and playful rhyme.  I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More is very silly but very fun.