Mark W. Mcginnis Books

A picture book of Taoist wisdom tales inspired by the ancient philosopher Chang Tzu, for children ages 5-10, beautifully illustrated with original artwork. “If we are true to who we are, we will naturally find what is right.” “Beauty is in the eyes and mind of the beholder.” “What is good in life is not always obvious.” These morals are inspired by the teachings Taoist philosopher Chuang Tzu (fourth century b.c.e.), who through charming and sometimes cryptic fables explained to his students the qualities of humility, modesty, simplicity, acceptance, and contentment. In “The Sea Turtle and the Frog,” two creatures share their unique perspective on the world. “The Happy Fish” offers a reflection on what makes for a good leader. And “The White Peacock” demonstrates the virtues of a simple life rather than one adorned with material riches. Beautifully illustrated in the traditional Asian style by artist Mark McGinnis, this book collects thirty-three of these traditional Taoist wisdom tales that will teach readers young and old about the Taoist view of living in harmony with the natural world.

"A treasury of traditional Buddhist wisdom tales, illustrated with gorgeous original artwork. Around the beginning of the common era, Indian Buddhists began to collect fables, or Jataka tales, illuminating various human virtues and foibles--from kindness, cooperation, loyalty, and self-discipline on the one hand to greed, pride, foolishness, and treachery on the other. Animals, instead of people, took the leading roles, giving the tales a universal appeal. Tales of this kind have emerged all over the world--in the Mediterranean as Aesop's fables and in various other guises throughout the Middle East, East Asia, Africa, Russia, and Europe. Author and painter Mark McGinnis has collected thirty-two of these tales and retold them in poetic yet accessible language, their original Buddhist messages firmly intact. Each story is beautifully illustrated with a full-color painting, making this a book that will appeal to both children and adults, Buddhist and non-Buddhist, who love fine stories about their fellow wise (and foolish) creatures"-- Provided by publisher