My Mindful Walk with Grandma

A young girl wakes before sunrise, eager to begin her annual hike with her grandma into the woods to discover whether the loons have returned for spring. This year, she is extra excited because she has a surprise—she has learned how to whistle, just like her grandma, to imitate the loons’ call. Eager to arrive at the lake and share her surprise, she hurries along while her grandma admires the colors of the sunrise and the noises of the woods. The story’s mindfulness message is clearly presented when the girl impatiently asks her grandma, “Are we almost there?” and her grandma replies, “Ah, but if we keep looking for there, we will miss what is right here.” Mabry’s narrative is masterful, insightful and genuine. She skillfully develops an admirable young character whose good intentions are still distracting her from enjoying her highly anticipated hike. The message emerges so naturally and smoothly that it is powerful and convincing. Pink’s gorgeous illustrations capture the beauty of the hike, from the purple pre-sunrise sky to the forest blazing in yellows and reds. The beauty of it all emphasizes the story’s mindfulness message and gives the reader—like the story’s main character—something to stop and savor. An author’s note further explains mindfulness and offers helpful tips for becoming mindful of a moment.