[Moody Cow Learns Compassion] [By: MacLean, Kerry Lee] [June, 2012]

by Kerry Lee MacLean

This delightful sequel to Moody Cow Meditates reintroduces us to Peter (aka Moody Cow) and meet his mischievous "boys-will-be-boys" friend Bully. Along the way we meet a snake named Jaws, who also goes on to appear in Peter's terrifying dreams, and watch as Bully revels in the deaths of the crickets he feeds the snake. Peter is uncomfortable with the plight of the little creatures, earning him a new "Coward Cow" because Bully thinks he's a wimp. Once again, Grandfather, the beloved old steer from Moody Cow Meditates , brings serenity and long-horned wisdom as he gently teaches to compassionately identify with other beings. And the story ends with everyone sharing a laugh - and even Jaws and the crickets are happy. This book also includes two activities - compassionate cricket release and compassionate worm rescue - for parents and children to do together.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Animals

Hardcover

First published June 19, 2012

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I completely agree with the message in this book, although I found the execution slightly pedantic. But, it's actually a really good story to share with children who are either angry or worriers or who literally or figuratively stomp on other living creatures (whether bugs or younger children). It's not really Moody Cow who needs to learn compassion in this picture book, but rather his aptly-named friend Bully. The appropriate lessons are learned and the suggested activities (compassionate cricket release and compassionate worm rescue) are quite good ideas for a children's program or a family time outing. I also really liked Grandfather steer's idea of using glitter settling in a jar of water to help relieve anxiety/anger... it's an idea I might try in my adult life.