Here are twelve stories from thriller writer Howard Losness, beginning with the tale of a man who refuses to act his age. You'll read about the deal he makes with a Mr. Sattan in return for his youth and the consequences thereof. Then there is Harm, who is living the good life with his wife and family, until the arrival of a letter announcing an additional member that he hadn't counted on, or even knew about. Charlie finds his dream girl and marries her, only to give everyone at the wedding reception the surprise of their lives. And then there is Paddy O'Toole, a gangster wannabe. Wait until you read what fate has in store for this fool. No collection of short stories would be complete without a 'Who done it'. In The Butler Did It, you'll discover Howard Losness' version of not one butler, but a plane full of them. In each of Howard Losness' short stories you will find yourself drawn into the lives and dilemmas that his characters create for themselves.

Basic Buddhist teachings presented in an easy, conversational style, comprised of parables and stories from the world-renowned spiritual teacher’s own childhood experiences A significantly expanded edition combining the previous edition with Under the Rose Apple Tree, plus several new stories—over 2 dozen practices for kids and grown-ups to do together Written in a highly accessible style that doesn’t rely on lot of jargon or difficult vocabulary, Thich Nhat Hanh emphasizes the importance of the present moment through vivid metaphors, original allegories, and colorful stories. Young readers will learn about handling anger, living in the present moment, and the interconnectedness of all things. Thich Nhat Hanh offers various practices that children can do on their own or with others that will help them to transform anger or unhappiness. They’ll learn techniques to reconnect to the wonders of nature and the joy of living in the present moment. This revised edition contains teachings and stories that the whole family can benefit from, as well as practices such as transforming anger in the family, instructions on how to invite the bell, breathing and sitting meditation, touching the Buddha inside, and others. These simple teachings on spirituality and awareness provide thought-provoking advice and practices for children to use again and again. Including 10 black & white illustrations by Philippe Ames and Nguyen Thi Hop.

A playful, illustrated guide to one of the best known and most innovative meditation practices for young children experiencing stress, difficulty focusing, and difficult emotions Developed by Thich Nhat Hanh as part of the Plum Village community’s practice with children, pebble meditation is a playful and fun activity that parents and educators can do with their children to introduce them to meditation. It is designed to involve children in a hands-on and creative way that touches on their interconnection with nature. Practicing pebble meditation can help relieve stress, increase concentration, nourish gratitude, and can help children deal with difficult emotions. A Handful of Quiet is a concrete activity that parents and educators can introduce to children in school settings, in their local communities or at home, in a way that is meaningful and inviting. Any adult wishing to plant seeds of peace, relaxation, and awareness in children will find this unique meditation guide helpful. Children can also enjoy doing pebble meditation on their own.

I have been writing poetry since the age of 15. This book is a type of journal for me, a documentation of the trials and tribulations in high school, college and beyond. I am now 65 and can reflect on the past as well as ponder the future.