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Joey and His Friend Water
Joey and His Friend Water is a playful book that introduces children and their parents to the idea that everything around us from people, to plants, to trees, to rocks, is energy vibrating at different speeds. And, in this way, everything in the universe is connected. The importance of the water cycle, mycelium and trees in healing the earth is talked about alongside Maseru Imoto's work on water and the idea that the way in which water reacts to words and emotions has implications for our bodies and our environment.
98 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 7, 2023
4 people are currently reading
11796 people want to read
About the author
Ellen J. Lewinberg
1 book1,187 followersEllen Lewinberg has a master's degree in social work and is a trained child and adult psychoanalyst. She worked as a psychoanalyst for many years until a health issue introduced her to energy healing. She was so excited by the potential of energy healing that she trained and currently works as an energy healer.
Ellen realized that young children experience a connection to energy and the unseen, but forget this knowledge as they grow older. She wanted to remind both older children and adults how important it is for themselves and the world around them to remember the connections.
Ellen realized that young children experience a connection to energy and the unseen, but forget this knowledge as they grow older. She wanted to remind both older children and adults how important it is for themselves and the world around them to remember the connections.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
August 21, 2023
Ellen is a friend. However I did enjoy the book.
January 26, 2024
Ellen Lewinberg's delightful book, JOEY AND HIS FRIEND WATER, is essential, engaging reading celebrating a deep connection with nature. For children of every age! #IReadCanadian
A teacher in London, Ontario, Robyn Israel, writes: "As an elementary school teacher, I highly recommend this book, as it aligns with both the Language Arts and Science curriculum. A sweet and imaginative story about the friendship between a boy and water. Its message -- that we are all energy and connected -- is timely and relevant."
Beloved author and critic Elizabeth Waterston writes: "This book offers an interesting approach to the concept of connectedness in nature, translating it into story form for young children. Colorful illustrations help present a complex idea in a readable way."
For more information on this earth-friendly, kid-friendly book: https://ellenlewinbergauthor.com/
A teacher in London, Ontario, Robyn Israel, writes: "As an elementary school teacher, I highly recommend this book, as it aligns with both the Language Arts and Science curriculum. A sweet and imaginative story about the friendship between a boy and water. Its message -- that we are all energy and connected -- is timely and relevant."
Beloved author and critic Elizabeth Waterston writes: "This book offers an interesting approach to the concept of connectedness in nature, translating it into story form for young children. Colorful illustrations help present a complex idea in a readable way."
For more information on this earth-friendly, kid-friendly book: https://ellenlewinbergauthor.com/
May 20, 2025
A Lovely Blend of Fiction and Nonfiction Children’s Book About Water
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This was a lovely blend of fiction and nonfiction children’s book about water from psychoanalyst Ellen J. Lewinberg. It is a simple tale of conversations between Joey, a youngster who loves to spend his time in the forest behind his home and Water, the stream within that forest. One day, as Joey was sitting next to Water, he becomes aware that it is trying to speak to him. And from then on, Water reveals to Joey fun facts and figures about himself.
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In time, Joey brings along his eccentric next-door neighbor Alice to Water so that he does not feel so alone with this strange phenomenon of a talking stream.
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I enjoyed this simple read because of its whimsical approach to the scientific aspects of Water. I think kids as well as adults will cozy up to this book because of that and the cartoony illustrations provided by artist, Raymund James Takay. Lewinberg name-drops actual authors and scientists: Masaru Emoto, Paul Stamets, and Diana Beresford-Kroeger to confirm the information that Water reveals to Joey.
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Some facts and figures Water mention about himself to Joey are:
-People’s bodies are more than 60% water.
-Trees are more than 50% water.
-Water covers 71% of the earth.
-You can live without food for about one or two months but without water you can only live for about three days.
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I recommend this educational/entertaining book to readers of all ages for its fun as well as visually satisfying elements. Good day!
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This was a lovely blend of fiction and nonfiction children’s book about water from psychoanalyst Ellen J. Lewinberg. It is a simple tale of conversations between Joey, a youngster who loves to spend his time in the forest behind his home and Water, the stream within that forest. One day, as Joey was sitting next to Water, he becomes aware that it is trying to speak to him. And from then on, Water reveals to Joey fun facts and figures about himself.
.
In time, Joey brings along his eccentric next-door neighbor Alice to Water so that he does not feel so alone with this strange phenomenon of a talking stream.
.
I enjoyed this simple read because of its whimsical approach to the scientific aspects of Water. I think kids as well as adults will cozy up to this book because of that and the cartoony illustrations provided by artist, Raymund James Takay. Lewinberg name-drops actual authors and scientists: Masaru Emoto, Paul Stamets, and Diana Beresford-Kroeger to confirm the information that Water reveals to Joey.
.
Some facts and figures Water mention about himself to Joey are:
-People’s bodies are more than 60% water.
-Trees are more than 50% water.
-Water covers 71% of the earth.
-You can live without food for about one or two months but without water you can only live for about three days.
.
I recommend this educational/entertaining book to readers of all ages for its fun as well as visually satisfying elements. Good day!
September 20, 2024
Picked up this book a while back for my niece, since she’s always had an interest in nature and science, and while I did enjoy the message of caring for the world around us and understanding our place in it, I wouldn’t recommend this to kids hoping to learn, since the science is vague at best, and gets facts wrong at worst. I’m not sure who this book is actually for, considering the citations scattered throughout.
June 8, 2025
Joey and His Friend Water by Ellen J. Lewinberg is an amazingly charming mixture of storytelling created in well-versed subtle environmental education, which makes it ideal for young readers. The story circles Joey, a kind-hearted kid who finds solace in the woods near his home. The story takes an interesting turn when, one day, he hears an unexpected voice—the stream speaking to him, which makes him part of a journey, exploring the wonders of water and the natural world. He begins to seek ways to protect and restore the environment after knowing the exploitation of natural resources. His transformation encourages readers to reflect on the difference they, too, can make in their communities and become more aware of the harm caused by human actions.
The author’s imaginative approach and gentle messaging invite children to think deeply about nature and their responsibility toward it. The book is accompanied by vivid, enchanting illustrations, which make it more interesting and engaging for young readers.
The story captures the heart while sparking curiosity; the theme is thought-provoking and serves a purpose to the society. It has been a while since I have come across a read like this. I recommend this to have a productive time with family.
The author’s imaginative approach and gentle messaging invite children to think deeply about nature and their responsibility toward it. The book is accompanied by vivid, enchanting illustrations, which make it more interesting and engaging for young readers.
The story captures the heart while sparking curiosity; the theme is thought-provoking and serves a purpose to the society. It has been a while since I have come across a read like this. I recommend this to have a productive time with family.
May 27, 2025
Water: “It is so hard to speak to humans” – An inspiring tale of Nature!
Energy healer and psychoanalyst Ellen J Lewinburg makes an impressive – and welcome! – writing debut with this fine book that blends an entertaining and beautifully illustrated (by Raymund James Dakay) children’s story with an introduction to nature and the importance of protecting the environment.
A taste of the beauty of this tale is evident as the story opens: ‘Joey lived in a house that looked rather ordinary, but there was something special about the backyard. Behind the house was a forest. And, in that forest was stream that twisted and turned. It also had a little waterfall and a pond big enough to swim in.’ Joey hears the stream murmur ‘Hello’ and the magic of interaction between Joey, the Water, and all of nature makes for an entertaining and meaningful adventure that addresses many of the questions of climate change and preservation – and appreciation – of the environment. This is a superb book for children – of all ages!
Energy healer and psychoanalyst Ellen J Lewinburg makes an impressive – and welcome! – writing debut with this fine book that blends an entertaining and beautifully illustrated (by Raymund James Dakay) children’s story with an introduction to nature and the importance of protecting the environment.
A taste of the beauty of this tale is evident as the story opens: ‘Joey lived in a house that looked rather ordinary, but there was something special about the backyard. Behind the house was a forest. And, in that forest was stream that twisted and turned. It also had a little waterfall and a pond big enough to swim in.’ Joey hears the stream murmur ‘Hello’ and the magic of interaction between Joey, the Water, and all of nature makes for an entertaining and meaningful adventure that addresses many of the questions of climate change and preservation – and appreciation – of the environment. This is a superb book for children – of all ages!
June 8, 2025
I don’t usually get hit with environmental philosophy when flipping through a kids’ book, but Joey and His Friend Watermanaged it—and in a way that didn’t feel like a lecture wrapped in a bedtime story.
Joey’s conversations with Water are strange but oddly calming. I liked that it didn’t try to explain everything—it just let the dialogue be what it was: a curious kid asking big questions and getting answers that felt… real, somehow. Like, not real-real, but emotionally true. I felt that.
What really caught me was how the book handled energy and connection without being preachy. There’s a line in there about trees and mushrooms and communication, and I just sat there like, “Oh. Okay. That’s actually beautiful.” Enjoyed a lot of the themes—healing, balance, respecting what you can’t fully understand.
Would I hand this to a science-minded ten-year-old? Maybe. But it did more for me as an adult, honestly. And now I’m wondering what my water would say if I listened.
Joey’s conversations with Water are strange but oddly calming. I liked that it didn’t try to explain everything—it just let the dialogue be what it was: a curious kid asking big questions and getting answers that felt… real, somehow. Like, not real-real, but emotionally true. I felt that.
What really caught me was how the book handled energy and connection without being preachy. There’s a line in there about trees and mushrooms and communication, and I just sat there like, “Oh. Okay. That’s actually beautiful.” Enjoyed a lot of the themes—healing, balance, respecting what you can’t fully understand.
Would I hand this to a science-minded ten-year-old? Maybe. But it did more for me as an adult, honestly. And now I’m wondering what my water would say if I listened.
February 4, 2025
Joey and His Friend Water by Ellen J. Lewinberg is an educational yet entertaining read for children. Joey is a thoughtful and considerate kid who enjoys the quiet of the woods behind his house. One day, he hears a voice talking to him. Come to find out, it was the water in the stream. Joey learns many things about water and nature. This prompts him to search for ways to preserve what we have and reverse some of the negative effects people have had on nature.
Ellen J. Lewinberg is an author who writes outside the box to make her readers think about topics close to her. Joey and His Friend Water is well written, and the beautiful illustrations bring this story to life. She completes her story with the thought of how Joey will make changes and what changes I could make in my area of the world. Well written and highly recommended.
Ellen J. Lewinberg is an author who writes outside the box to make her readers think about topics close to her. Joey and His Friend Water is well written, and the beautiful illustrations bring this story to life. She completes her story with the thought of how Joey will make changes and what changes I could make in my area of the world. Well written and highly recommended.
February 22, 2025
Joey and His Friend Water by Ellen J Lewinberg
Love reding this story, would be a super read to share with grandkids.
It's about a boy who's 10 and he wants more independence around the house, especially being in the backyard forest.
And the parents sit down after dinner and they discuss it and why they set rules because of the water that flows through the trees.
Love how this takaes a turn where water talks to him and explains a lot of things about water and that it is in everything, even our bodies., trees and plants.
SO informative and entertaining to learn about it and how others reach out to help him learn more.
There are references listed at the very end for further education. I even looked up the two places mentioned to learn more about the ecovillage. and what they are all about.
I'd fit right in being so conservation aware.
Very descriptive and imaginative.
Love reding this story, would be a super read to share with grandkids.
It's about a boy who's 10 and he wants more independence around the house, especially being in the backyard forest.
And the parents sit down after dinner and they discuss it and why they set rules because of the water that flows through the trees.
Love how this takaes a turn where water talks to him and explains a lot of things about water and that it is in everything, even our bodies., trees and plants.
SO informative and entertaining to learn about it and how others reach out to help him learn more.
There are references listed at the very end for further education. I even looked up the two places mentioned to learn more about the ecovillage. and what they are all about.
I'd fit right in being so conservation aware.
Very descriptive and imaginative.
June 20, 2025
Joey and His Friend Water is a neat children’s book framed around the imagination and curiosity of the titular character, Joey. Lewinberg’s experiences in her professional life have lent a hand in some of the subtle nudges we get in this book.
As Joey frequently spends time in his favorite place, he learns that he is connected to it more profoundly than just a spot he enjoys, and he makes great efforts to learn more about how he’s connected to the world around him and how to protect that. The message is solid; sometimes, just listening to what’s happening around you can open up your eyes.
The short book touches on many topics (from science, dowsing, imagination, and more) but ties into spirituality in the concept that everything is energy from an interconnected standpoint.
Overall, it’s a neat little piece that works well as a children’s book.
As Joey frequently spends time in his favorite place, he learns that he is connected to it more profoundly than just a spot he enjoys, and he makes great efforts to learn more about how he’s connected to the world around him and how to protect that. The message is solid; sometimes, just listening to what’s happening around you can open up your eyes.
The short book touches on many topics (from science, dowsing, imagination, and more) but ties into spirituality in the concept that everything is energy from an interconnected standpoint.
Overall, it’s a neat little piece that works well as a children’s book.
January 23, 2025
Joey and his friend Water is a lovely children's book that combines science, spirituality, and awe. Lewinberg explains the water cycle alongside Dr. Emoto's study, demonstrating the interconnection of everything. Joey's experiences with water teach young readers about emotions, environmental consciousness, and the value of working together to safeguard our world. The simple yet thoughtful prose and cute illustrations prompt curiosity about the environment. Some of the concepts may be too advanced for kids, however. Despite that, this heartwarming story will become a beloved favorite among youngsters and families alike.
February 24, 2025
"Joey and His Friend Water" is a playful children's book that introduces the concept of universal interconnectedness, illustrating how all things are energy vibrating at different speeds. Through Joey's unique friendship with Water, readers explore themes of nature, emotions, and environmental stewardship. The story emphasizes the significance of the water cycle, mycelium networks, and trees in Earth's healing processes. Inspired by Dr. Masaru Emoto's research, the book also delves into how words and emotions can influence water, highlighting the impact of our feelings on our bodies and surroundings.
March 4, 2025
This is a children's book intent on teaching children about the importance of water in our lives. It addresses climate change and our effect on the environment. It attempts to teach children about the natural world through the voice of water. It explains the connectivity of water to our lives and to nature.
I liked the attempt at explaining this to a child, but I fear that some of the language and terminology used might be at a higher level than a child can understand. I am not sure of the grade level this book is targeted to reach, but I think that the concepts are great for young children, however the terminology might be geared towards middle school age.
I liked the attempt at explaining this to a child, but I fear that some of the language and terminology used might be at a higher level than a child can understand. I am not sure of the grade level this book is targeted to reach, but I think that the concepts are great for young children, however the terminology might be geared towards middle school age.
September 15, 2025
What a gem of a book! I used Joey and His Friend Water as part of our homeschooling science curriculum, and it was a hit. My kids loved Joey’s adventures, and we ended up doing our own little experiments about water and trees afterward. It’s rare to find a book that combines story, science, and spirituality so seamlessly. Highly recommend for families who want to nurture both curiosity and empathy in their children.
July 2, 2025
What struck you most was the way the book combines elements of science, spirituality, and environmental awareness into an accessible and engaging narrative. Joey's friendship with water reminded you of the importance of maintaining a deep connection with nature and being mindful of our impact on the world around us.
September 14, 2025
Magical and Educational
This book is such a delightful blend of storytelling and science. Joey’s conversations with Water make complex ideas about nature, the environment, and even energy feel accessible to kids. I read it with my 9-year-old and he kept stopping me to ask questions. Any book that sparks curiosity like that is a win!
This book is such a delightful blend of storytelling and science. Joey’s conversations with Water make complex ideas about nature, the environment, and even energy feel accessible to kids. I read it with my 9-year-old and he kept stopping me to ask questions. Any book that sparks curiosity like that is a win!
September 14, 2025
A Thoughtful Adventure
I loved how the story combines Joey’s imaginative adventures with real scientific facts about water, trees, and the environment. At times it felt a little heavy on the “lessons,” but my daughter didn’t mind—she was fascinated by Water’s personality. A great classroom or bedtime read.
I loved how the story combines Joey’s imaginative adventures with real scientific facts about water, trees, and the environment. At times it felt a little heavy on the “lessons,” but my daughter didn’t mind—she was fascinated by Water’s personality. A great classroom or bedtime read.
September 14, 2025
Heartwarming and Inspiring
This is a book that respects children’s intelligence. Joey learns that “everything is connected,” and I found myself learning alongside him. It’s the kind of book that makes both kids and adults stop to think about the natural world in a new way. Highly recommend for families who love The Secret Garden or The Little Prince.
This is a book that respects children’s intelligence. Joey learns that “everything is connected,” and I found myself learning alongside him. It’s the kind of book that makes both kids and adults stop to think about the natural world in a new way. Highly recommend for families who love The Secret Garden or The Little Prince.
September 14, 2025
Important Messages Wrapped in Story
As a teacher, I can see myself using this book in lessons about ecosystems, water, and climate change. The characters—especially Water—make the science memorable. Some parts were a bit long for younger readers, but the overall message about caring for nature is beautiful.
As a teacher, I can see myself using this book in lessons about ecosystems, water, and climate change. The characters—especially Water—make the science memorable. Some parts were a bit long for younger readers, but the overall message about caring for nature is beautiful.
September 15, 2025
Gentle, Wise, and Full of Wonder
I think this book belongs in every school library. It manages to weave storytelling, science, and spirituality into one narrative that respects children’s imaginations. The part about trees being connected by mycelium was my favorite—it was like a forest secret being revealed.
I think this book belongs in every school library. It manages to weave storytelling, science, and spirituality into one narrative that respects children’s imaginations. The part about trees being connected by mycelium was my favorite—it was like a forest secret being revealed.
September 15, 2025
Good but Dense at Times
While I appreciate the message and the creativity, I found the pacing a little slow in parts. The educational passages sometimes overshadowed the story. Still, Joey is a charming character, and Water’s “voice” is endearing. I think kids who are naturally curious will enjoy it more.
While I appreciate the message and the creativity, I found the pacing a little slow in parts. The educational passages sometimes overshadowed the story. Still, Joey is a charming character, and Water’s “voice” is endearing. I think kids who are naturally curious will enjoy it more.
September 16, 2025
Our children’s book club picked this, and it led to some of the best conversations we’ve had. The kids were fascinated by Water’s personality, while the adults appreciated the underlying ecological messages. The pacing could have been tightened a bit, but overall this is a meaningful and memorable story that encourages kids to see nature as a friend.
November 25, 2023
This book offers an interesting approach to the concept of connectedness in nature, translating it into story form for young children. Colorful illustrations help present a complex idea in a readable way.
September 9, 2025
A magical and educational story! I loved how Joey’s friendship with Water teaches kids about nature, science, and respect for the environment. Perfect for parents who want a gentle eco-message wrapped in adventure.
September 14, 2025
For Kids Who Ask “Why?”
My son is always asking “why” about everything, and this book gave him so many answers. Why water is important, why trees matter, why pollution is harmful—it’s all explained through Joey’s magical friendship. He was completely absorbed.
My son is always asking “why” about everything, and this book gave him so many answers. Why water is important, why trees matter, why pollution is harmful—it’s all explained through Joey’s magical friendship. He was completely absorbed.
September 14, 2025
Like Talking to Nature Itself
The idea of water speaking as a character is brilliant. It makes environmental education feel personal. I did feel like some chapters were a little repetitive, but the imagery of Joey sitting by the stream and learning from Water was just lovely.
The idea of water speaking as a character is brilliant. It makes environmental education feel personal. I did feel like some chapters were a little repetitive, but the imagery of Joey sitting by the stream and learning from Water was just lovely.
September 14, 2025
A Modern Eco-Fable
This book reads like a fable for our times. Joey discovers wisdom in the forest and learns that humans must protect what we love. It reminded me of how important stories are in teaching kids to care about the planet. Beautifully done.
This book reads like a fable for our times. Joey discovers wisdom in the forest and learns that humans must protect what we love. It reminded me of how important stories are in teaching kids to care about the planet. Beautifully done.
September 15, 2025
Best for Middle-Grade Readers
My 11-year-old enjoyed this much more than my 7-year-old. The science facts and philosophy (“everything is energy”) really clicked with her. She’s already talking about doing her own experiments after reading it. Parents—this one might spark science projects at home!
My 11-year-old enjoyed this much more than my 7-year-old. The science facts and philosophy (“everything is energy”) really clicked with her. She’s already talking about doing her own experiments after reading it. Parents—this one might spark science projects at home!
September 15, 2025
My 8-year-old was completely enchanted by Joey’s friendship with Water. She now insists on talking to the stream near our house. I love that this story teaches kids about nature, respect, and environmental responsibility without feeling preachy. A new family favorite!
September 15, 2025
This book is a gift for educators. It blends science (water cycles, trees, ecosystems) with storytelling that kids actually enjoy. I read it with my grade 4 class and it sparked so many discussions. Some chapters are a little dense, but overall an excellent read-aloud.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews