My Old Friend, Then Blog Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

What would you do to protect yourself from being overwhelmed by negative thoughts every now and then? Get inspired by Katherine Davis-Gibbon's unique picture book My Old Friend, Then and enter to win a mindful prize pack!

My Review:

My Old Friend, Then offers an insightful introduction to the concept and process of mindfulness through kid-friendly language and charming artwork. The little girl in the story enjoys the company of her old friend Then, an imaginative, talented storyteller who shares all her memories, including the not-so-pleasant ones. Then is the perfect friend except when she gets overly possessive and demanding, making the little girl feel depressed and disconnected from everyone else, even herself! Things start to change, however, when the girl's new friend Now comes into the picture, inviting her to experience life like never before.

The beauty of the book is that the author leaves it open to interpretation. Readers in different age groups, with different backgrounds may understand the story and its message quite differently. Younger children may need their parents' assistance to make sense of certain parts of the story. For me, it encourages us to focus on the present, and learn to activate our senses and enjoy the moment. While it is perfectly fine to embrace the most cherishable things about our past, we should avoid rumination that might get us consumed by negativity, thereby losing sight of what really matters. Practicing mindfulness can help us become more positive and patient while feeling calmer and happier.

Despite the depth and complexity of its theme, the book is made accessible to young readers by its whimsical illustrations. The sharp contrast between black and white drawings and full color paintings helps distinguish between the past and the present, and between reality and imagination. It is an exceptional book that promotes self-acceptance, social and emotional well-being. Both children and grown-ups may benefit from reading it over and over again.

About the Book:

Ages 4 and up | 40 Pages
Publisher: Riverlet Press LLC | ISBN-13: 9781737957607

A child ponders … who is her best, most loyal friend? Is it her constant companion, Then, who regales her with extravagant stories of their shared past and imagined future? Or is it precious, patient Now, with whom she sensitively explores each new moment that unfolds?

My Old Friend, Then explores mindfulness the same way that kids approach life: with curiosity, humor, and unspoiled sincerity. Pairing accessible and relatable language with vivid, quirky illustrations, this book invites readers to share in a young girl’s journey as she grapples with the trappings—and delights in the boundless potential—of her own brilliant mind.

Purchase Links: Amazon | Bookshop

About the Author:

Katherine Davis-Gibbon is a yoga teacher, a longtime practitioner of Vipassana meditation, and most importantly a mother of two. She is also the founder of Riverlet Press, a children’s book company for conscious parents raising mindful kids.

For more information, visit www.riverletpress.com.

About the Illustrator:

Allie Daigle is an illustrator who strives to create immersive and expressive images that stimulate the imagination. Whether for a children’s book, a product label, or her original pieces, Daigle’s works implore the viewer to linger and explore the details within. Allie primarily works with traditional watercolor & ink as well as digital mediums.

For more information, visit www.alliedaigle.com.

One lucky grand prize winner will receive an autographed copy of My Old Friend, Then and a box of You're Wonderful Thoughtfulls pop-open cards by Compendium Inc!

Three additional winners will each receive an autographed hardcover copy of My Old Friend, Then!

Giveaway ends 5/4. Open to US only. Please enter below. Good luck!

My Old Friend Then: Book Giveaway

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Riverlet Press. All views and opinions expressed are my own. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for winner selection or prize fulfillment.