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Description edit see section history

"Michael," said Karl. "There's a really big bear in the backyard." This is how three children meet Stillwater, a giant panda who moves into the neighborhood and tells amazing tales. To Addie he tells a story about the value of material goods. To Michael he pushes the boundaries of good and ... read more

Summary edit see section history

Michael, his brother Karl, and their sister Addy meet the new neighbor: Stillwater the Panda. Stillwater interacts with kids individually, meeting them each exactly where they are at that moment, and helping them discover deeply meaningful life lessons. He teaches the kids about generosity,... read more (warning: may contain spoilers)

Michael, his brother Karl, and their sister Addy meet the new neighbor: Stillwater the Panda. Stillwater interacts with kids individually, meeting them each exactly where they are at that moment, and helping them discover deeply meaningful life lessons. He teaches the kids about generosity, contentment and forgiveness.

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Quotes edit see section history

  • “My uncle sat and looked at the moon, its silvery light spilling over the mountains, making all things quietly beautiful. 'Poor man,' lamented my uncle. "All I had to give him was my tattered robe. If only I could have given him this wonderful moon."”
    Stillwater
  • “"I get it," said Michael. "Maybe good luck and bad luck are all mixed up. You never know what will happen next." "Yes," Stillwater agreed. "You never know."”
  • “"That woman back there was very selfish and rude, but you picked her up on your back and carried her! Then she didn't even thank you!" "I set the woman down hours ago," the older monk replied. "Why are you still carrying her?"”
    The younger monk and the older monk

First Sentence edit see section history

"Michael! There's a bear outside!" said Karl.

Series & Lists edit see section history

This is book 1 of 3 in Zen series. (standard series)

Followed by Zen Ties.

This is book 2006 of 240 in Caldecott Honor. (authoritative list)
This is book 372 of 986 in 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up. (authoritative list)

Authors & Contributors edit see section history

  1. Jon J. Muth (Author)
  2. Jon J. Muth (Illustrator)

Other Contributors:

  1. David Saylor (Designer)

First Edition edit see section history

Original Language: English
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Country: USA
Publication Date: 2005
ISBN: 0439339111
Page Count: 40

Books That Cite This Book edit see section history

   
  • Connecting Young Adults And Libraries

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