If Dr. Seuss were drawing on classical Buddhist texts for inspiration, this is what he’d write—with playful yet traditional illustrations by the award-winning artist behind The Empty Pot, whose books have sold half a million copies. Destined to be a classic.
An instant classic, this book will help children (and their parents) learn patience and to see the good in everyone—including themselves! It will also help children meet difficult circumstances, such as being sick, doing chores, and not getting everything they want—and help them overcome low self-esteem and negative self-talk.
I See You, Buddha is based on a chapter in the Lotus Sutra, one of the most influential Buddhist texts worldwide—a classical scripture that has inspired a whole genre of works, especially in Japan, known as Lotus Literature. The Lotus Sutra teaches the way of the bodhisattva—a being engaged in compassionate, enlightened activity in the service of all—by offering examples of what this activity might look like in the world. One such model in the text is Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful (or Never Disparaging), who, despite troubling encounters with and even harsh treatment from others, bows down respectfully to everyone, recognizing their Buddha nature and honoring their own journeys along the bodhisattva path to enlightenment—whether they know they’re future buddhas or not!
Industry Reviews
"For too long, there have been few examples to express good character in a Buddhist way for very young readers. This book captures the powerful story of Bodhisattva Never Disparaging found in the Lotus Sutra, and also points to the natural way children are able to share love and joy.
"Bodhisattva Never Disparaging exemplifies the simple act of loving respect; sharing this story with children is an endorsement of their natural ability for love, well illustrated by the simple gesture of palms together.
"This gentle, loving book would be a wonderful addition in any child's library--a delight in hearing the story told and in its telling. I imagine many nights of bedtime stories with this book, I See You, Buddha. We should all hear this every day."--Bishop Myokei Caine-Barrett, Nichiren Shu Order of North America
"Through lovely images and lively poetry, I See You, Buddha reminds us that the most important truths are those even a child can understand."--John Brehm, editor of The Poetry of Impermanence, Mindfulness, and Joy
"With its uplifting lyrical rhyme and pictures that dance off the page, I See You, Buddha brought tears to my eyes. Its simplicity and profound message of respect for all will delight children and adults alike."--M. LaVora Perry, actor and author of Taneesha Never Disparaging
