BookView Review

Lawrence’s latest, a collection of nine stories, is a series of tales that speak to the heart as much as to the imagination. Blending folklore with imagination, the stories follow characters—sometimes hesitant, sometimes bold—as they search for wisdom and grace in a world that continually tests them. In “The Genie and the Curly-Tailed Pig,” gifts from a genie expose human folly, while a clever pig becomes the moral anchor. “The King and the Cannibals” tells the story of a ruler who comes to understand that everything unfolds for a reason. In “The King and the Carpet,” the protagonist uses his wits to turn a dire situation around. “The Tree of Happiness,” is divided into three parts: Mr. Love, where kindness blooms; Time, which urges readers to cherish fleeting moments; and Mark Learns a Lesson, a tender coming-of-age arc.

The later pieces, including “How to Catch a Naughty Monkey,” “An Odd Little Town,” “Andrew the Angel,” and “Maria Tells a Story” seamlessly mix levity, spirituality, and an appreciation for the stories that connect us. “Gently Down the Stream” ends the collection with a peaceful, thought-provoking reflection on life’s dreamlike quality. With prose that is both subtle and rich, Lawrence employs symbols such as pigs, carpets, trees, and rivers to convey truths that linger beneath the surface. The illustrations do more than adorn the pages; they enrich the storytelling, drawing readers further into its enchantment.

Perfect for readers who like their stories fun and whimsical, with a dash of meaning that sticks.

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