Everyone has faced a very bad day, but oftentimes it’s your response to these negative events that has the largest impact on you, those around you, and how easily you’re able to overcome the adversity and successfully resolve the challenges in front of you. In her upcoming release, Gus’ Fortunate Misfortune [2019], teacher, business owner, mother and grandmother, Susan Pepka takes young readers on an exciting journey as they follow an ordinary mouse named Gus on a quest to find a way to turn his very dad day into a hopeful new beginning.
* Complimentary book received for review. This post contains affiliate links.
Following a series of unfortunate events, Gus finds himself trapped, separated from his family, and transported far from home. Alone and frightened, the young mouse must confront his deepest fears. Using his wits, Gus solves problems and makes discoveries. Adapting to his new surroundings, Gus receives help from an unexpected friend, as each trial brings a new lesson. But will Gus ultimately succeed? Will he find what he’s truly looking for?
Gus’ Fortunate Misfortune offers a child-friendly introduction to Buddhist teachings, and how they emphasize compassion, patience, kindness, and consideration for others. Both charming and inspirational, Gus’s Fortunate Misfortune addresses:
• How facing challenging circumstances define us
• Showing empathy for others facing difficult situations
• How to see a situation through the eyes of another
• The effects of bullying on a child’s confidence and how to restore self-worth
• How generosity affects others
• Everyone faces fear from time-to-time – how we react can either hurt or heal
• The importance of community in our lives
• Appreciating those different from you
• Finding happiness through Buddhism in a sweet and playful manner
• And much more!
As an educator and librarian, I highly recommend you adding this title to your library. Gus’ Fortunate Misfortune takes you on a journey through the eyes of Gus, an adorable mouse that gets separated from his family and ends up in a Buddhist temple. Following along with the story, you will witness all of the trials Gus must face to find food and feel comfortable being on his own. You will also meet a Buddhist named Jamyang and witness the actions he takes when he sees Gus for the first time.
I will advise that Gus’ Fortunate Misfortune is longer than your average picture book. I would recommend this story for ages six and up, but preferably school-aged children. If you plan to reach this book in its entirety, then I recommend setting some free time aside. When you do decide to read the book, not only will you like the story, but you will also enjoy the illustrations. The illustrator does an amazing job at telling the author’s story. He uses a lot of warm and inviting colors that will allow you to put yourself into the story. When choosing picture books for my library collection, the illustrations of that story is very important. The better the illustration, the more likely I will add the title to my library.
For my fellow educators, there are a lot of great topics that can be introduced and taught in your classroom such as patience, kindness, and emotions. This is a wonderful story for my school-aged children, and the story can easily be broken down into separate days. There are a lot of really great stopping points to discuss and take questions. It’s very easy to build a whole lesson plan around this book.
Gus’ Fortunate Misfortune is available for purchase on Amazon through Full Cycle Publications. This is a great gift for Christmas, which is right around the corner. So visit amazon.com today to place your order.
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Disclaimer: Sara K. has personally reviewed the product listed above. Sara has not received any monetary compensation for her review. Sara did receive complimentary product(s) to try out so she could evaluate and use it for her review. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ. Please read our Terms of Service & Disclaimer Policy before entering our giveaways.
This is very important lesson for kids to learn. A book that teaches them to be kind and compassionate in a fun way is wonderful.
I think that teaching kids to be kind and compassionate is so very important. Sounds like a wonderful story with nice illustrations to keep kids engaged.
What a beautiful book and story. I love books like this that lead to good discussions.