Noticing

A girl goes to the forest and finds an older woman painting en plein air. Through conversations, the elder woman shows how to observe nature and use the imagination to see things and to enjoy time outdoors. The conversation shifts to starting to look inside yourself, and to realize that each person is special and unique. “Everyone shines and needs to be seen. Everyone wants to know that they matter, that there is a place for them, and that they are needed.” So this is a book that is about nature, art, imagination, as well as self-esteem, and feeling valued and important. Honestly I think this is a picture book for all ages.

Wonderfully written and illustrated. Thank you for your time in writing this.

There's Daniel Tiger levels of emotional intelligence and then there's Kobi Yamada levels of emotional intelligence. For parents who are looking to be intentional with their child's development and helping them unpack large concepts that even a lot of grownups struggle with you need to start buying the books coming out from Kobi Yamada. To start Elsie Hurst did an incredible job with the illustrations. The illustrations are gorgeous and appropriate for the story. When you take the time to appreciate them you understand that everything about them is deliberate. As a side note, If you find joy in great illustrations be sure to check out her book "The Storyteller's Handbook". Beyond the illustrations I get the impression that Kobi spends a significant amount of time by himself and with others at Compendium carefully considering the language that is used to help a child realize what they are capable of. In the context of this particular book the reader (not just children) are encouraged to dig deeper into what is occurring around them and to not simply gloss over the insights that the world and others can provide. When you take the time to create space in the margins of life to notice what is happening that's when you can really start to realize your potential. If you can't tell I, and my four children, are massive fans of the works Kobi and Compendium.

Absolutely beautiful book! Well written for all ages.

This isn't a childish book but they too will like it. The message is stimulating and not what you might imagine. As with art work in every Kobi Yamada book, this is outstanding and provocative in the way all illustration should be. A tad on the fantastic side but I draw in the realistic mode and this quality in illustration beats anything I've seen so far. You'll be glad you've made the purchase. Read this with someone 5 and up or gift it to an elementary school child, answer a question, boost your outlook, lift your spirit. Have a teen read it to a sibling when they are struggling with the same issue. Enlightening!

I love these books, they are sweet to read to young children and inspiring for adults.

I loved the artwork done in the illustrations, and the story when I received the book. It took a while before the book(s) actually arrived. I got the books delivered at the grandchildren’s house, and they almost did not arrive in time. But - due to the necessity of staying longer than had been planned - I was able to share the book with my granddaughters. They enjoyed the story and the illustrations very well also. If ordering the books - order them WAY before needed, the book is great, but just a lot longer getting there. Both my 4 year old and my eight year old enjoyed the book.

I love to use stories to teach mental health concepts. I love how this story pinpoints the heart of mindfulness -noticing! I have always been one to linger and notice while others busily occupied themselves, so I resonate with the story and characters. Love it!