Shantideva: How to Wake Up a Hero - Hardcover

"I love this story. It speaks to my heart, reminds me of my purpose and inspires me. The illustrations are simple, ethereal and beautiful."--Gina Bates Brown, author of Zen and Bodhi's Snowy Day

"Bold, brilliant and beautiful. Townsend's confidently cheerful voice will inspire young minds while parents will find her book opens up many important conversations. Tenzin Norbu's out-and-out amazing paintings will delight and inspire even very young readers."--Kerry Lee MacLean, author of Moody Cow Meditates

"This beautifully illustrated adaptation of a Buddhist story will delight parents and children as they discuss the many feelings children experience. The focus is on finding compassion but importantly it recognizes a range of feelings children experience, from anger to excitement and happiness. The book is a lovely vehicle for parents and children to talk about feelings and getting along with others."--Tovah P. Klein, PhD, Director, Barnard College Center for Toddler Development

"Clear, direct writing makes Shantideva's teachings accessible and meaningful, making this a strong jumping-off point for readers eager to explore Buddhist teachings in greater depth."--Publishers Weekly

"In the simple, compassionate language akin to other Buddhist works, this insightful book offers spiritual teachings, practical advice, and an entertaining story, all at once. Concrete examples root abstract concepts in everyday life to provide wisdom for children and adults alike."--Foreword Reviews

Readers of all ages will enjoy this retelling of a beloved spiritual classic. Playfully illustrated in traditional Tibetan style, the story of the monk Shantideva frames his inspiring lessons on the way of the bodhisattva superhero.

Shantideva: How to Wake Up a Hero is the retelling of Shantideva’s teachings before a surprised audience, who had thought he was useless and could only eat, sleep, and poop. Leading his listeners into a superhero training of different kind, he reveals the secret to perfect bravery and unbounded compassion and shows how anyone can develop them. You don’t need super-strength or magical powers, he says. You just need practice.
A dozen illustrations painted in traditional Tibetan style draw in readers to this work that will be treasured not only by Buddhist families but by anyone who aspires to become more kind and wise.