A world of pausabilities An exercise in mindfulness

Sileo (Don't Put Yourself Down in Circus Town) invites readers to explore the potential in "pausabilities," i.e. "taking a pause just for you,/ to stop and notice what you feel, think, and do." Writing in rhyme, Sileo offers numerous suggestions for ways that children can be mindful, whether paying attention while eating ("Have something yummy and healthy to eat./ Notice the flavor; is it salty, or sweet?"), doodling, or taking a break from screens. Zivoin (Big Red and the Little Bitty Wolf) sets nearly every scene outdoors, and her warm digital illustrations show multiethnic families playing in the rain, sharing a quiet moment on a porch swing, and chasing fireflies by night. Through the rhythms of Sileo's verse can be uneven, he offers a wealth of ideas for how children and families can stay engaged in the present. Ages 4-8. (Feb.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

K-Gr 3-In this picture book exercise in mindfulness, psychologist and children's author Sileo invites primary grade readers to walk barefoot, play with the wind, share a story with a pet, or just hug someone they love. The work is written in easy-to-follow rhyming prose, supported by imaginative illustrations that express that "pausability" can occur at any time, day or night. It is ideal for a yoga storytime or as a bedtime read to encourage children to pause, take a breath, and go to sleep with a sense of appreciation. Though the font is rather small, elementary school teachers could use this title as a warm-up read before starting the day's activities, to provide a respite from work, or to stimulate concentration. An ending "Notes to Caregivers" explains mindfulness and offers ideas on how to join the world of "pausabilities." VERDICT A fine addition for school and public libraries to introduce mindfulness.-Kathia Ibacache, Simi Valley Public Library, CA © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.