Be Happy!

Maddy Bard (Author) Maddy is a sports coach and holistic practitioner. Her experience of mentoring in schools has convinced her that simple mindfulness meditation practises help the mental health of children. She is delighted to share some of these in her first book for children. Maddy lives with her husband and four children in Surrey.Emma Dodd (Illustrator) Emma studied Graphic Design and Illustration at Central Saint Martin's School of Art in London and has been lucky enough to work as an illustrator ever since. She has illustrated more than 200 books for children and now writes and illustrates her own books, as well as collaborating with other authors. Emma's two children and her love of nature and the outdoors are her main sources of inspiration. Emma lives in Guildford, Surrey with her family and their two Jack Russell terriers, Buzz and Twiglet.

Two frolicsome and companionable dogs promote ways to "Be Happy" in this upbeat picture book, which offers a simple set of imperatives that link mindfulness to contentment. "Be Thankful," proposes bold text as the canines sniff dandelions and "appreciate the little things." "Believe in Yourself," encourages another page as the poodle and dachshund run across a bridge. While Bard acknowledges a range of emotions ("Sometimes it's OK to not feel OK"), some suggestions feel more moralistic than mindful ("Keep Busy/ Hucky and Buzz are happiest when they have plans for the day"). Outlined with loosely drawn black lines, Dodd's pups stand out against basic digital backdrops. Questions throughout encourage readers to reflect interactively on ways they can join Hucky and Buzz in their dogged pursuit of joy-a task that this book renders as seemingly easy.