Do You Mind?

by Gavin McCormack

Do You Mind? tells the story of Raymond the Australian Bull who realises the value of true friendship. As he leaves the field in search of true happiness, he discovers that there is no possession one can own that is more valuable than true friendship. Follow Raymond as he embarks on the most amazing journey into the city. Hilariously funny, and with a strong moral, Do You Mind? is an absolute roller coaster story with a wonderfully funny ending.

What can the book do for your child?

The book works in several ways. Not only will children find this hilarious story entertaining, they will also learn the true value of friendship. In a world where material objects are all the rage, it is important that children realise that there are some things that money cannot buy and true friendship is one of those things. The book is designed to inspire conversations at home and in the classroom about what true friendship means and how life can be full of surprises.

The science behind the story.

Raymond is a bull that lives with his friends in the fields of Australia. When we look into fields filled with cows and bulls we often think they are randomly placed. In reality, bulls and cows often have several close friends whom they will stay with for life. Cows and bulls are some of the only animals on Earth known to shed actual tears when upset. They crave affection and love being personally named. Raymond realises that the most valuable thing one can own is true friendship. He leaves behind his new material possessions and seeks the one thing that makes him truly happy.

47 pages, Hardcover

First published October 10, 2018

About the author

Hello! I am Gavin McCormack, a co-founder of Upschool.co, a platform that empowers students to learn real entrepreneurship skills that have real impact. With over 20 years of experience as a Montessori-trained teacher, I have taught in multiple countries and developed a passion for innovative educational practices that foster essential skills in students from an early age.

I am also the Montessori Australia Ambassador and a TEDx speaker on how education can change the world. I have built several schools and several libraries and run three teacher training centres in Nepal. I am a best-selling author of children's books and a book on Montessori education for parents. I have been recognized as one of the top ten most influential global educators in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022, 2023, 2024 and a nominee for Australian of the Year in 2018. You can learn more about my personal pedagogy and educational philosophy at www.gavinmccormack.com.au.

I am always open to collaborating with schools and educators worldwide to share my expertise on programming, classroom management, and pedagogy. Feel free to connect with me to learn more about how we can work together to bring about positive change in the education sector.

'In the ideal classroom, love is the silent lesson always being taught. It is not spoken of as much as it is shown, felt, and understood. It is the light that guides children on their path to finding their voice, and once found, to using it with the surety that comes from knowing they are loved, without conditions, without pause.'

Reviews

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully illustrated and written story which teaches children the importance of friendship, and that the pursuit of wealth will not make you happy.

I've read this to my children often and they enjoy it every time.