Lovely illustrations paired with inspirational words. ( )

Author/illustrator Jon J. Muth presents twelve common Zen Buddhist sayings in this lovely little gift book, pairing each one with an illustration from his series of picture-books about Stillwater, the Zen panda bear. Each two-page spread features a different saying, as well as a beautiful watercolor painting. There isn't really much here - or is there? - but fans of Stillwater and his Zen teachings will undoubtedly enjoy Zen Happiness. For my part, my favorite spread was the one which paired the saying, "Three tings cannot remain hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth," with the illustrations of Stillwater and his companions gazing out on a moonlit night. ( )