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and do what's kind
and more of the same
is what you'll find."
The book begins with a poem that examines ripples of water that become waves. Just as thoughts in the mind grow, and just as deeds grow, one can turn these thoughts and actions into waves of action by doing good and being kind. Written in response to bullying and violence, the teaching focuses on forgiveness and the need for peace. Emerson promotes this concept for children as well as for the adults—little ripples leading to big waves. A note to adults written on Independence Day emphasizes the need for freedom. The "Preface to Activities" indicates that the activities are for children as well as for the child within the adult, and they are to be done with the child, as the child learns by example. Finally, there are eleven activities listed with descriptions, including doing community service, taking timeouts, and parenting the inner child.
The poem is a sweet, rhyming narrative of twenty-five lines that children will relate to. It is descriptive in its look at water as a metaphor for thoughts and behaviors, and how little ripples turn into bigger waves of doing good. The focus on how the book was developed is a section more for adults, as it relates to bullying children, but it can still be a teaching moment for children on this topic. The activities for adults and children to do together are appropriate, but could benefit from more clarity. For example, it recommends EFT without explaining what that is. The poem itself, though, is the highlight of the book and will likely be appreciated by both children and adults.