There’s a very special rule we should all follow. It’s really worth well more than your weight in gold, or the weight of the world, for that matter. It’s called the Golden Rule. It’s all about treating others the way you would like to be treated. In other words, be kind, caring, and considerate at all times. Help others, share what you have, and just be nice.

Sherrill S Cannon’s picture book/coloring book story, The Golden Rule Coloring Book, is a clever way to teach young readers how to be kind to others while, at the same time, entertaining them and making them think about this ‘kindness’ treasure they have within themselves. The story is told in rhyming verse as two siblings go searching for what they believe is gold and has something to do with a rule. Knowing how young people hate rules (don’t we all), this introduces the idea that there might be some good rules to consider. The story part of the book is accompanied by a colorful illustration while the next page is a coloring page for young readers to color as they wish, using colors they think will appropriately and efficiently describe what they’re feeling and their comprehension of the concept of the ‘golden rule.’

This interactive activity is continued at the end of the book where the author provides questions to make young readers think more deeply about the concepts presented in the book. Children love to color and create beautiful pictures; they also love to talk about their feelings as they work hard to learn important concepts about life. This book combines both in a comprehensive and entertaining way of teaching young people to be kind to others: “treat others the way you would like them to treat you.” What could be more simple?

Author Sherrill S. Cannon has created a wonderful new children’s book titled The Golden Rule Coloring Book. Robert and his sister Kait are on a quest to find the golden ruler. As it is made of gold, Robert thinks it would be quite nice to own and worth a good price. After searching in their school, they soon realize what they're looking for is not a ruler, but rather a rule that could not be seen. It is a rule “to live by, to give and to share, a way to treat others to show that you care.” The Golden Rule means to think and act with your head and your heart. It teaches children an essential life lesson.

Sherrill S. Cannon has penned a delightful rhyming story to teach the golden rule. As Robert and Kait learn about the concept, many practical examples are given. For example, a child can share a snack, a toy, or a book. She also includes the example of not hitting back when another child hits you and the concept of paying it forward. Parents have many opportunities to teach children the golden rule and reiterate these concepts during reading times. Kalpart adds another dimension to this book: the illustrations on the rhyming pages are lovely and colorful. And every other page is a coloring page so that a child can add their unique perspective to the book. Learning the golden rule can be fun! The children’s book, The Golden Rule Coloring Book, crafted by Sherrill S. Cannon, would be a great addition to any child’s library.