Finding Calm and Joy Through a Dog’s Eyes — The Joy of Mindfulness with Dorie the Dog
I was so happy to receive a review copy of this new release children’s book and it was an absolute delight. It’s a number one new release on Amazon and you can even read it in Kindle Unlimited. Plus, there’s a cute dog!
The Joy of Mindfulness with Dorie the Dog is the kind of children’s book we sorely need—gentle, reassuring, and heartfelt—in a society where even children are experiencing the rush of incessant devices, schedules, and overstimulation. This #1 new book, written and illustrated by Katie O’Brien, M.Ed., combines emotional awareness, art, and mindfulness in a way that is both approachable for children ages 4 to 8 and subtly therapeutic for adults.
A Pup with a Purpose
The story’s endearing dog guide, Dorie, is teaching children more than simply how to “be good.” They are learning how to be present. Simple experiences like breathing with the wind, seeing fish swim, and meeting new people teach kids to stop, observe, and appreciate the beauty around them. Each page contains a small affirmation that turns reading into a kind of mini-meditation.
Without ever coming across as preachy, lines like “I am calm like the water” and “I can stop and smell the joy” promote self-control and thankfulness. Dorie exemplifies mindfulness in action by paying attention with kindness and curiosity rather than by sitting motionless for hours on end.
This is also great for anyone who experiences anxiety or overwhelm, and to help children manage big emotions in a healthy way.
A Teacher’s Touch
Every page reflects O’Brien’s twenty years of experience as an art educator. She incorporates her understanding of how creativity keeps kids grounded in the here and now into the artwork and the narrative. The gentle and cozy drawings inspire serenity while igniting a child’s creativity. An excellent addition is the coloring area at the end of the book, which encourages children to take their time and express themselves while promoting mindfulness via practical art.
O’Brien has obviously put her all into this endeavor, including her classroom experience. She wrote a book that helps kids identify their emotions and gently regain equilibrium, inspired by her own mindfulness techniques, such as breathwork and meditation, as well as her rescue dog, Dorie.
Why It Matters
Every household, therapy office, and classroom should have books like The Joy of Mindfulness with Dorie the Dog. This entertaining bedtime tale also serves as an engaging SEL (Social Emotional Learning) resource. Youngsters who read it learn that it’s okay to feel intense emotions and that pausing to breathe, pause, and express gratitude may always result in a feeling of calm.
This book exemplifies mindfulness rather than merely teaching it, showing that it is approachable and accessible to everyone and can a part of your everyday routine. Every component, from its art to its affirmations, promotes joy, empathy, and serenity.
Final Thoughts
Katie O’Brien has created a novel connection between storytelling and emotional well-being. The Joy of Mindfulness with Dorie the Dog is more than just a picture book. It also provides a set of resources for developing happy, kind, and self-aware kids.
If you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist looking for a way to teach mindfulness to young children, Dorie the Dog will make you smile. She might also remind you to take a deep breath for yourself.
It’s 5 stars from me! Every young reader’s library needs this book. You can also learn more at the book’s website: www.doriethedog.com