Selma

From my son, Tate: I am nine years old and this was my favorite book when I was younger. I learned to read with this book and it was the first one I could read all the way through. I have my own copy and I love to read it. My mom has her copy on her desk to remind her to be like Selma. She even gives it to all her friends (she has bought almost 30 copies already!).

After having dinner with a new friend and venting a bit of our commonalities in various daily life (not untypical) frustrations, my pal dropped by my office this morning with a small, not so small, gift: Selma by Jutta Bauer. Oh, how we waxed philosophical over dinner! Solving world problems, defining the meaning of life, discussing the pursuit of happiness! But I took a coffee break at my desk upon receiving this gift and in a few minutes, read the 32 pages of this children's book (of all ages) by a prolific German author in juvenile literature. And there--all problems solved. Wasn't that easy? Selma the sheep in a few, simple words, with a bit of repetition for those of us who can be a little dense, conveys how to live a happy life. No, I will not convey her sheepish secret here. With some online searching to discover more about this wise sheep and her wise creator, I discovered that another version of this book is titled, Ewe Too Can Be Happy, with apparently no difference in storyline from this title. Selma's lesson, overall, however, is one of simplicity, so I opt for the original, less cutesy title.

This little book says it all. If you ever think life is too complicated and frenzied and stressful, read this story about Selma. She knows the secret of happiness in this life and you'll want to share her wisdom with everyone you care about.

You'll find this book in the Juvenile section. It only has about 32 pages in it. You can probably read it standing next to the shelf in the Children's Area of your library or book store, but when you're done, you will know the secret of true happiness. Save yourself some time, Dr. Phil's book is a lot longer than this and it won't help you as much. Yes, it's the story of a sheep...but she has the answers to some tough questions. Then buy one for everyone on your gift-giving list! Read-Consider-and smile...

This was one of those rare finds - flipping through the pages in a toy store while the Christmas rush bustled behind me, I stood reading with a serene smile on my face. I immediately bought all copies, and ordered more for all my friends. This is not a children's book, it is a mother's book, which serves to bring us the perspective we sometimes need in our busy lives. This book was a bestseller in the author's native Germany, and I see it having a large following here due to it's sweet, simple message.