No Presents Please (Zen Tails Series) Book

Grizzel Bear is angry. He stomps the flowers, he grumbles, he complains. The sun is in his eyes, the trees are in his way, and the wind musses his fur. On the path he meets Guru Walter Wombat, who is full of love and compassion. As Grizzel rages, Walter smiles and refuses to accept Grizzel's anger. "You tried to give me a stomp on the head, a bone crunching Grizzel Bear squeeze and a punch on the nose. I would not want those presents even if it was my birthday.” This beautifully illustrated tale offers children gentle lessons in learning to control angry feelings, both their own and others'.

Children's Literature

This story is a classic philosophic tale adapted for children and is one of the "Zen Tails" series. Guru Walter Wombat is enjoying the day when Grizzel Bear comes along complaining about everything. Grizzel Bear wants Guru to get out of his way, but Guru just smiles. Grizzel Bear threatens to give him a "stomp on the head," a "bone crunching squeeze," and a "punch on the nose," but Guru keeps smiling at him. Guru tells him that he would not want those presents even if it was his birthday, so Grizzel Bear will have to keep all his anger for himself. Grizzel Bear shouts that he is not angry and accidentally stomps on a daisy. Grizzel Bear is sorry that he crushed the daisy and decides that he needs to be very careful of all the flowers, birds, and trees. This is followed by the original Zen tale and the moral of the story. The amusing characters are meticulously illustrated in lovely colors. Young children should enjoy this appealing book while learning some positive philosophy related to dealing with bullies. Reviewer: Vicki Foote