Zen Ties is American comic artist John J. Muth’s follow-up to Zen Shorts which told the story of Stillwater, the giant environmentalist panda, and his siblings, Karl, Addy, and Michael. Aside from being an award winning children’s book writer, John Muth is also recognized as an excellent illustrator. In fact, he was awarded a Gold Medal for the illustrations in Karen Hesse’s book Come on, Rain!

In Muth’s new book, Stillwater and his haiku-speaking nephew, Koo, join Karl, Addy, and Michael as they get to know their neighbor, Miss Whitaker. They find out that Miss Whitaker is actually a very caring and kind person as opposed to what they first thought she was: grouchy and mean. Eventually, they find out that Miss Whitaker was only in need of a loving and caring friend.

The book incorporates Japanese Buddhism when Stillwater asks his nephew to reuse disposable cups, a practice inspired by the teachings of Soen Nakagawa Roshi. It teaches children how to value even the littlest things that they have.

Zen Ties’ most important message has something to do with our day-today relationships. The book imparts the lesson that all of us are connected and interdependent, whether we know our next-door neighbors or not.

Critics and readers are one in saying that the book is beautifully written. The watercolor illustrations are just perfect for the story and for the children. It is a wonderful book that can also be used for teaching students important tidbits about morals and about valuing things, people, and relationships. Light and easy to read, Zen Ties is a story of friendship and compassion that teaches young readers how to properly think and feel.

John Muth also successfully introduces poetry in the form of Koo’s haikus. It is a great book for readers of all ages.