The Golden Rule [Hardcover]

Ilene Cooper (Author), Gabi Swiatkowska (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 2007 | Grade Level: P and up

This book is a gentle reminder of a timeless rule for parent and child: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Everyone knows a version of the Golden Rule. But what does it really mean? And how do you follow it? In this gorgeously illustrated book, a grandfather explains to his grandson that the Golden Rule means you “treat people the way you would like to be treated. It’s golden because it’s so valuable, and a way of living your life that’s so simple, it shines.” And though it may be a simple rule, it isn’t easy to follow. Fortunately, following the Golden Rule is something everyone can do, which means that every person—old or young, rich or poor—can be a part of making the world a better place.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Kindergarten-Grade 5—A nameless boy and his grandfather discuss the meaning of the Golden Rule, its universality, and ways to practice it. Grandfather points out that many religions and cultures, from Christianity to Hinduism to the Shawnee tribe, have their own variations, and he quotes six examples. The boy wonders what the world would be like if more people practiced the Rule, and Grandfather explains that "It begins with you." The rich, golden paintings and large format reinforce the importance of the topic. The cherubic boy and his old-fashioned grandfather gaze solemnly out of the pages, making eye contact with readers and inviting them into the discussion. Swirling patterns of animal shapes and symbols from various traditions are reminders that the topic is as abstract as the art, with much room for interpretation. This is less a story than a discussion starter, and teachers, parents, and religious leaders will welcome it as a clear introduction to an important subject. While there are more compelling examples throughout children's literature of characters practicing the Golden Rule, from Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess to Chris Raschka's Yo! Yes? (Scholastic, 1993), there are few titles that address the concept so directly.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL
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About the Author

Ilene Cooper has written many acclaimed children’s books, including Jewish Holidays All Year ’Round, winner of the National Jewish Book Award. She is an editor for Booklist and lives in Chicago, Illinois.

Gabi Swiatkowska won the Ezra Jack Keats Best New Illustrator Award from the New York Public Library for her first book. This is her second book. She lives in New York City and travels often.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Harry N. Abrams (March 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 081090960X
• ISBN-13: 978-0810909601
• Product Dimensions: 10.4 x 10.3 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.5 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (16 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #256,273 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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