Finding Om

by Rashmi S. Bismark

Finding Om is an illustrated children's book that shares the story of Anu, an Indian African girl who explores the mantra Om with her beloved grandfather, Appuppa. Through this story, she begins to uncover techniques of mindfulness that readers can explore along with her. This wonderful multicultural, intergenerational story is sure to become a staple in classrooms and homes across the world.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Family

38 pages, ebook

Published May 12, 2020

About the author

Rashmi S. Bismark, MD, MPH is a physician specialized in Preventive Medicine with expertise from public health, health behavior, lifestyle medicine, and complementary & alternative therapies. Her clinical practice is focused on holistic mindfulness-based interventions tailored to individuals and communities. With over two decades of exploring traditional healing practices from India, including Ayurveda, energy healing, meditation, and yoga, Dr. Bismark is also a teacher trainer at Yoga Medicine by Tiffany Cruikshank where she contributes to curriculum and co-leads advanced modules on Yin Yoga and Meditation for yoga teachers from around the globe. Dr. Bismark feels very fortunate to travel the world with her husband's job, raising two little yoginis-in-training, and sharing mindful ways of nurturing life and healing.

Reviews

[La Coccinelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sometimes I wonder if picture-book authors really understand children at all...

Finding Om is a simple explanation of mindfulness and meditation using the Om mantra. Anu learns about Om from her grandfather, Appuppa. Then she goes on to practice, eventually finding peace within herself.

What I'm struggling with are two things. First, Anu is depicted fairly unrealistically. After learning about Om, she struggles to maintain focus... until she obsessively starts chanting while letting the world go on around her. Do children really need to be that mindful? (There's one illustration that I found particularly disturbing, in which she's sitting and meditating while the rest of her family are simply enjoying their lives. What's the message? Kids are supposed to give up joy in favour of enlightenment? Her family are unenlightened boors who need to be taught a lesson? In fact, the book ends with Appuppa suggesting they teach the even-younger sister about meditating. I'm not sure how well that's going to work, given the girls' apparent ages.)

The second thing that's bothering me is the way the book is written. It's difficult to understand, even for adults! The main narrative itself isn't so bad, but check out one of the definitions provided for clarity:

Meditation: an introspective practice for becoming more familiar with ourselves in relationship with internal and external life experience; depending on the style of practice, may cultivate certain modes of paying attention, like focus and/or receptivity; may also reinforce connections to various attitudes and intentions for attending with presence, awareness, wisdom, and care

Got that, kids?

The pictures are cute, and the overall premise is commendable, but I think this is aimed at the wrong age group. Do young children really need to be reminded to notice things around them? I don't think so. These are valuable lessons for older readers who may have forgotten how to be mindful, but I question whether encouraging kids to get obsessed with chanting and trying to be mindful 24/7 is that healthy.

Thank you to NetGalley and Mango and Marigold Press for providing a digital ARC.

[Producervan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Om by Rashmi S. Bismark, M.D., M.P.H. Illustrated by Morgan Hull. Mango and Marigold Press. Children’s Fiction. Multicultural Interest. Publication date set for 12 May 2020. ISBN: 9781645433873. 5 Stars.

The first thing that struck me about this book is what gorgeous illustrations Finding Om has! Chanting the OM with meditation for kids and its effects is a journey of self-discovery as we follow a little Indian-African girl and her meditating Grandpa, her “Appuppa”. This is a unique read with simple-to-understand instructions embedded within the text should your young one want to try it out. It even includes a small glossary. If your child has only a few books, let this be one of them! Highly recommend.

Thanks to NetGalley and Mango and Marigold Press for providing a digital copy of this book for review.

[nitya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really adorable and LOVE the way meditation (and "om") is depicted. I am so happy books like this exist for the South Asian community!

[Isabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Om by Rashmi S. Bismark is the kind of book that every little library should have. It is a wonderful multigenerational and multicultural story that is perfect for teaching your children about diversity and that not everybody is the same as them. They can see a family from a different country as well as a different religion. The illustrations are truly stunning. I cannot think of many children's books that are this beautiful.

[Effy · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Anu asks her Appuppa why he keeps saying "um", she doesn't realise that she is about to embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Through this gorgeously drawn book, children can explore meditation and mindfulness by following along with Anu's journey. The story is soothing and gentle, encouraging the reader to try exploring the power of om without feeling as though it is pushing an ideological agenda.

A great book!

[Britt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding Om is a beautifully illustrated picture book about meditation. A lesson both parents and children can learn from as meditation and mindfulness is so hopeful, especially in these times where we are self-isolating. I really enjoyed it and hope that everyone who picks it up will find their OM

[Desca Ang · Rating 4 out of 5]

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DISCLAIMER: The book is given by NetGalley, the author and the publisher in exchange of an honest review. All the review written is not related to any personal issues or connection.

TRIGGER: This is a sweet graphic children book. The story is beautifully told in wonderful illustration.

Finding Om tells about the story of an Indian African girl Anu who learns a valuable lesson from Appuppa, her beloved grandfather. The lesson is nothing but "Om." Anu is at first curious why her Appuppa keeps saying "Om" with eyes closed. She then asks him and Appuppa says that Om is like a mantra. Throughout the story, Anu discovers that the word or sounds "Om" carries a lot of meanings particularly in its relation to the practice of meditation. 

This children book to me is an interesting book. The story comes with very beautiful illustration. The only thing that need to be adjusted is the use of language. The writer should set the boundaries to which age the book will be circulated. I think it is quite a little hard for children under seven to understand the concept delivered. Therefore, the writer should be very attentive with the choice of words and the concepts being delivered. It is especially in explaining the concept of Om through meditation. 

My only suggestion is to keep the language used as simple as it can be. The beautiful illustration helps the children to understand the book better. The illustration will also keep them entertaining.

The book is available by clicking this site: Finding Om by Rashmi S. Bismark

Review: https://literatureisliving.wordpress....

[em · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was super sweet! As a teacher I would read this book to kids in my class. It offered a nice introduction to OM and meditation in the real world, from a kids perspective. I loved the illustrations, the explanations and the glossary. It was a very sweet, family oriented story. My only concern would be really young students or children understanding the concept, they do find very relatable examples but it is definitely a story that would have to be repeated and practiced.


Thanks to NetGalley and Mango and Marigold press for the advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review!

[Kriss · Rating 2 out of 5]

I freely admit, I wasn't sure of this book. The description of the book and the cover image interested me, but the first few pages of questions and answers between grandfather and child seemed a bit condescending. I did find that as I finished the book it was better than the beginning. I think the mindfulness techniques would sink in with more thoughtful children. Possibly a read aloud for a class talking about mindfulness or a small group of children learning yoga.

[Reilly Papp · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book for teachers and parents to share with their kids! The author does an excellent job of explaining meditation mantras in kid friendly terms. I especially appreciated the author addressing how minds can wander, but OM can help to refocus. This book will help children seeking peace and looking for ways to find calmness in life. An excellent addition to any social emotional learning curriculum!

[Chantal Aurora · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so adorable. The illustrations were so beautiful I was in awe the whole time. I loved that this was about a little girl discovering mediation and bonding with her grandpa. This was so wonderful to read, I loved every part.

[J.D. DeHart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Om is a rich, beautiful, and engaging narrative -- ready to be read and appreciated at any age. Rashmi S. Mismark is clearly a talent and offers an eye-catching book for us to enjoy.

[momma_doc_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an informative look into the practice of meditation and breaks down the principles using easy to understand prose and beautiful illustrations!

[Marzia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wise and unique book, full of inspiration.
I like how the concept of mindfulness and meditation is presented to children. The illustrations are really cute and I love the bright color palette.
I hope it will be published also in Italy.



Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for providing me a free copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book with my six year old daughter. We loved this book. The pictures and the story were adorable, vibrant and sweet.

This book does a great job explaining meditation. Anu learns what a mantra is and what Om is.

This would be a great book for classrooms to discuss how to calm down, mediate and reflect on the world around them. I definitely could use this technique myself to stay calm while quarantined with two daughters who are currently being homeschooled. Yikes!

Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for my eARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Jessica Gard · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a wonderful children's book! Finding Om teaches the basics behind meditation and awareness in a simple way that allows children to understand one of the oldest practices in most western religions. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this to my stepdaughter, as she is five and already finding her own love of yoga. I also loved the diversity that this book allowed me to share with her. Beautifully illustrated and wonderfully executed, Finding Om was an absolute pleasure to read.

[Bibi · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Acquired through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

This was really sweet! I've never really been into meditation or anything along those lines, but this was really interesting. It was explained in an easy way, so children would also be able to understand it, and I liked it like that. It's opened my mind to the subject, because I would like to be able to feel like Anu did: relaxed, happy, and capable. So I think I'll research this a little bit more and see what else there is to learn and discover.

[Kirsten - Children's Library Lady · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely book detailing the relationship between a young girl and her grandfather. He teaches his curious granddaughter about his meditation practices and how it can help her feel at peace and connected to nature. Read to children as an illustrated introduction to meditation and mindfulness. I will be added this book to https://childrenslibrarylady.com/mind... when I next update the page.

Thank you to NetGallery for the preview copy.

[Marion Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book covers do matter!

I would have never gotten this book if it was not for the book cover I saw on Instagram a few days ago. The cover of Finding Om by Rashmi Bismark and artwork by Morgan Huff got my attention. I thought it would be a book that my 10 year old daughter would want to read. This book has been targeted for a younger age (5 to 7) than my daughter’s age…I bought the book anyway.

Finding Om chronicles the story of Anu, a half Indian and half African girl who begins to explore mindfulness with her grandfather, Appuppa. He teaches Anu the concepts of mindfulness and how to quiet her mind to receive the spiritual blessings of the mantra Om.

Anu struggles with Om at first but as the story continues she learns to embrace the concept and gains concentration with her mind. The story comes to a quick conclusion but my daughter learns something that has never heard about or learn in school within the pages of this book.

We enjoyed reading Finding Om together and recommend this picture book for the aforementioned ages. I’m glad that a book like this is being published and I hope for its success.

[Amy Nielander · Rating 5 out of 5]

This colorful book is filled with curiosity, discovery, joy and peace. I adored the relationship
between Anu and Appuppa (her grandfather) and how he gently helps her find the meaning behind the mantra, OM. This is a fun read for everyone - young and old! It is especially beneficial for those teachers/families trying to help children find ways to focus. The lively details in the charming illustrations make each page pop.

[Shauna Morrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I requested and received an e-ARC of this book from NetGalley and Mango and Marigold Press in exchange for an honest review.

I do not practice meditation, but I found this book did a great job of explaining meditation, mantras, and OM, I learned a lot throughout this book. This book would be a great way to introduce relaxation and meditation to children. I love the illustrations, the colours are vibrant and muted at the same time, beautiful.

#FindingOm #NetGalley

[Jenn Georges · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic! It is a great book about the meaning of OM. The illustrations are beautiful. I love the information it provides about being one with self and the meaning of OM. I would use this for a cool down or a break to get the students settled. I would also recommend it to the school counselor to help student who may need help with finding their center and relaxing. This is a book i would recommend for k-5 cassrooms.

[Helena#bookdreamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Beautifully illustrated with a peaceful, kind message. A young girl learns from her Grandpa the importance of a mantra reflection. She incorporates it in her daily life. Awesome to teach kids how to appreciate the sounds around them.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely adorable! I loved how it teaches kids to find their inner peace and how to explore being present in the moment. It explores what it means to be mindful, how children can explore this from a young age, and how it's okay for your mind to wander but when you notice it, you bring it back to silence. It also shows a family of color which I really loved!

[Medeia Sharif · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is centered on a girl who discovers meditation and mindfulness by learning plenty from her grandfather's use of Om. The illustrations are amazing. I've never encountered a picture book like this, so it's definitely unique. I read this via NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.

[Alexander Fernandez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Originally published at Mr. Alex's Bookshelf: https://mralexbookshelf.com/2020/05/2...

Dr. Bismark’s debut, available for preorder as of the date of this writing, is a solid entry into the world of mindfulness for children.

For an in depth interview with the Author, including her thoughts on the book, head over to Yoga International.

Quick Rating: Buy, With Reservations

Summary
Anu discovers the mantra OM and meditation through her relationship with Appuppa (maternal grandfather). She learns about her heritage (Indian-African) and the interconnectivity of the world around her.

Illustrations
Huff’s illustrations are clearly aimed at the five to six-year-old target age range for the book. However, to this eye, they appear colder than required for the warm subject area the book necessitates. They are bright, and airy and nice, but do not necessarily align with the text on evoking the feeling of connectivity or OM. This, of course, varies with the eye of the beholder, as does meditation. They are lovely to look at.

It’s On My Bookshelf
I put this book in the “self-help” area for kids category. It’s a book that teaches mindfulness, much needed in today’s society, and it does it in an accessible way that encourages familial, intergenerational dialogue. All pluses! The “with reservations” rating is given because, although the book starts off in simple, intuitive language, it gets lost along the way. Take for instance this snippet:

“Appuppa said OM is nature’s own vibration–the sound of the universe buzzing with life. If the whole world is safely singing OM, maybe I don’t have to always keep saying it..Maybe I can also listen–listen with love to life’s OM inside and all around me right now.”

The quotation is lovely. It gives you a lot to unpack. And, as an adult requires deep thought. It is completely inaccessible to a five year old without substantial assistance. If you believe you can provide this assistance, then the book is for you and your child. Perhaps, this is even a journey you can go on together. I encourage you to do so! And that’s, why this book stays on my bookshelf.

My thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an Advance Copy of this book. The views expressed herein are my own.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Mango and Marigold Press for the digital review copy.

When Anu comes across her beloved grandfather, Appuppa meditating, she asks him if he needs to ask a question, because she keeps hearing him say “Um.” He explains it’s not “Um” he’s saying, but “Om.” He explains to Anu what a mantra is, how it works, and how to use it throughout your life to notice the hum of nature and to feel more at peace. He challenges Anu to try using the mantra, to hold it in her heart, for a week and report back. Anu learns so much over the course of a week and can’t wait to share her findings and new feelings with her grandfather.

I really enjoyed this book. There are principles in here that it has taken me nearly 34 years to learn, and I wish I’d had something as cute as this book to help me learn it sooner. I definitely think children can learn from the principles of meditation even if they don’t have what we view as an adult “practice.” I’m also a proponent of taking elements of things that work for you and incorporating them into your life. Kids can do the same thing, and learn something about life in the process.

This one just came out, so pick it up from your favorite local bookstore or look for it at your local library if it’s reopened.

[Kat Caric · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars for Finding Om: A needed niche book that fills a demand fairly well, with delightful bright art to accompany.

This is a book needed in the market, a way to explain about mindfulness with a focus on the simple OM syllable as mantra, and to define what is mantra, and what is its purpose.

Yet I am not giving 5 stars because in its attempt to target young children age 5+ (it's stated category, and the art style's successful category targeting) it slightly fails with its verbiage. Instead it reads like simple instructions given to teenagers or adults, but accompanied with childhood art.

True, we can speak to young children as we talk to older teens and adults, but to captivate a young mind while reading, things could have been phrased a bit more on target for the audience. It does appear that the expert subject matter teaching canon that the author pulls together here has been lightly repackaged for the young mind with accompanying art, and the prose could have been done a bit better, perhaps with the consult of a child psychologist or even a young grade school teacher as team member for this creation.

Example, book passage: "Confident in the wisdom she uncovered and holding the spirit of OM softly in her heart, she paid attention with kindness and care to everything that happened next." I picture myself sitting next to a 5 year old reading this sentence, and cannot see a 5-year old who's interest hasn't waned in that moment. I picture this possible event and see that I am not holding their attention with this phrasing of concepts. Better would have been a setup to something like "Anu felt confident now! She didn't feel afraid or nervous anymore! And she was nicer to her sister and friends, because she felt happy." An active simple voice appeals to the young mind more deeply. It allows the young mind to process deep concepts while not getting tangled up in phrasing that is not so direct.

There is a time for young minds to process the clear meaning of more complex phrasing, but it is not while processing complex ideas, for age 5.

Yet a parent could translate this book in that manner to present these concepts to a young mind. For that reason I still recommend this book. The progression of concepts to reach a meditative mind is there, simple enough for a teen or adult to capture, and the art is lively and beautiful for a young child. It's all there, presented with a diverse cast, and with an adult to translate into the style their child can process, this is a good meal indeed.

Good effort, recommended.

[Jon I. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable and educational story about a little girl's experience of AUM and meditation with her grandfather. I appreciated the intergenerational storyline, cultural context, and the simplicity with which complex concepts around meditation were introduced. My children could easily relate and loved the beautiful illustrations.

[Mukesh Gupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got a digital review copy of this book via Netgalley & loved the book for its simplicity of writing that while being deep and spiritual is also fun for the child to experience. This is a very delicate balance to strike, which Rashmi has been able to do well.

The illustrations have played an important role in keeping the mood light & playful, which adds to the effectiveness of the writing,

All in all a great book to introduce the concept of Aum to kids at a young & impressionable age!!!