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The Water Tree Way
"Each and every one of us can be inspired by Jai’s example."
- Dr. Jane Goodall
"The Water Tree Way is a bold and deep story full of wonder and action on the surface, and some of the most profound lessons of the ages beautifully nestled beneath."
- Marguerite C. Rizzi, Educator, veteran Superintendent of Schools
"Regardless of your age, this book will strengthen your faith in the wisdom of your Inner Child, restoring your awe in the mystery of self-discovery and your resolve in the magic of leading a life pursuing your Inner Truth."
- Asha Pillai MD.
Jai (pronounced JAY) is more than a girl, she’s a phenomenon. Filled with spunk, stealth and blazing courage, she leaves all she has known to embark upon a journey that would be hair-raising for anyone. By daring to pluck a single mysterious Leaf from the revered Water Tree Grove, Jai begins to confront herself by pursuing what she knows nothing about. She is guided by exotic music and rhythms that mysteriously lace across the sky, but still makes dazzling blunders that endear her all the more to unlikely characters from both the natural and supernatural worlds. With hilarious wit and gentle wisdom, these characters befriend her, while teaching her about herself.
Through Jai’s high-spirited and big-hearted escapades, the book offers insights and solutions to many of the problems we currently face—from fear and loss to the tragic absurdity of war and revenge. A full-length (260 page) children’s book intended for readers of all ages, the story exalts the triumph of the human spirit, as experienced by a girl who can be none other than her unabashed self.
- Dr. Jane Goodall
"The Water Tree Way is a bold and deep story full of wonder and action on the surface, and some of the most profound lessons of the ages beautifully nestled beneath."
- Marguerite C. Rizzi, Educator, veteran Superintendent of Schools
"Regardless of your age, this book will strengthen your faith in the wisdom of your Inner Child, restoring your awe in the mystery of self-discovery and your resolve in the magic of leading a life pursuing your Inner Truth."
- Asha Pillai MD.
Jai (pronounced JAY) is more than a girl, she’s a phenomenon. Filled with spunk, stealth and blazing courage, she leaves all she has known to embark upon a journey that would be hair-raising for anyone. By daring to pluck a single mysterious Leaf from the revered Water Tree Grove, Jai begins to confront herself by pursuing what she knows nothing about. She is guided by exotic music and rhythms that mysteriously lace across the sky, but still makes dazzling blunders that endear her all the more to unlikely characters from both the natural and supernatural worlds. With hilarious wit and gentle wisdom, these characters befriend her, while teaching her about herself.
Through Jai’s high-spirited and big-hearted escapades, the book offers insights and solutions to many of the problems we currently face—from fear and loss to the tragic absurdity of war and revenge. A full-length (260 page) children’s book intended for readers of all ages, the story exalts the triumph of the human spirit, as experienced by a girl who can be none other than her unabashed self.
262 pages, Paperback
Published December 2, 2020
5 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 10, 2021
"The Water Tree Way" took me on a shamanic journey from the dream state perspective of a brave young woman's search for alchemy and evolution. It is a story for all ages, from 10 to 101, filled with reminders of our opportunities to shift our perception, follow our true will into dimensional creation, embrace fear as alquantum fuel into the continuum. The totem animals represented remind me of our opportunity to pay attention to constant signs from our elders, ancestors, and spirit guides as opportunities for basking in wonder, delight, and the ability to choose a new beginning any time along our beam of life's light.
January 21, 2021
I love this book!! It is full of everything our world needs right now. It is heart rending, funny, sweet, profound and inspiring. The Water Tree Way is like a handbook for young and old to a compassionate, loving, empowered, engaged and meaningful life, all wrapped up in a great story of adventure and magic. It is the perfect book for families, and classrooms to read aloud for enjoyment and discussion as well as for individuals. I recommend The Water Tree Way to everyone who believes in the resilience and and beauty of the human spirit, and anyone who needs a little upliftment and hope. Jai is a great role model for us all.
January 15, 2021
A review by Dr. Maggie Rizzi
The Water Tree Way by Ruth Mendelson is a delightful adventure story, primarily written for children, but like so many of the best children’s books, there is a great deal here for adults as well. It is a bold and deep story full of wonder and action on the surface, and some of the most profound lessons of the ages beautifully nestled beneath.
The hero of the tale is a brave, energetic, curious ten year old girl named Jai (pronounced Jay). Like some of the most beloved children’s stories that have come before, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Harry Potter come to mind, it straddles both what we consider the ‘real’ world and some fantastical elements that take the reader into the worlds of inner life and greater truths. Like the mythic Hero’s Journey, articulated by Joseph Campbell, our protagonist accepts the call to leave her everyday life and embark on a great adventure, from which she returns with a gift for her community. Ms. Mendelson has sure handedly rendered this both entirely accessible and lots of fun for young readers, and older ones alike.
After meeting Jai in her ordinary world, we are soon taken to the magical Water Tree Grove, where Jai is invited to pick a leaf which will guide her on her adventure. It turns out to be no ordinary leaf, as among other things, it transforms itself into a variety of different birds to help her at important stages of the journey.
As Frodo does on his epic journey, and Dorothy does in Oz, Jai meets a number of characters along the way, each captivating, and each contributing a bit of knowledge or wisdom, both to her, and to us, the readers.
The adventure itself is exciting, fun, hair raising at times, a real page turner, as they say. It is also original, imaginative, visually rich, and full of wonder and unexpected surprises.
This in and of itself makes any book worth reading, entertaining and fun. Having said that, there is something else going on here as well, something more rare, and very important. What separates a nice book from one that is profound occurs on the level of meaning.
What Ms. Mendelson has managed to achieve here is an accessible tapping of what Deepak Chopra calls ‘the world’s great wisdom traditions.’ The solace for those who have experienced loss, the lessons of courage in the face of inevitable fear, the portrait of a deep and meaningful friendship between a girl and a boy are important. But beyond these are some topics that many writers avoid because the wisdom to tackle them is rare, even among adults. The clear assertion that there are consequences to our actions, some of which can cause powerful long term damage, is beautifully coupled with reliable and reassuring ways to repair and redeem them.
Perhaps the most important life lesson, and one most sorely needed in our time, is the unambiguous rejection of revenge, and the inevitable cycle of exponential destruction that it causes, up to and including some of the world’s most protracted wars. There is no sugar coating here, but there is an elegant path to the only viable choices for the peace and safety of the world. And yes, all done in a way that is enjoyable, understandable and nurturing. No mean feat in any genre.
During the 1960’s and early 70’s, the Manhattanville Music Curriculum Project developed a series of materials to reform music education based on the premise that high quality, if challenging, material is a far better way to teach children, respecting their intelligence and ability to engage, than easier, lower quality stuff written ‘for their level.’ It worked like a charm. As an educator I have found that this premise holds true in all other subject areas as well. So with that as a guiding principle when choosing books to add to a Reading or ELA curriculum, here is an example of a book that offers children highly sophisticated lessons that they can truly take through life, deeply respecting their ability to understand. Additionally, in a time when we are seeking ways to teach values and grounding truths to children, this book provides a multidimensional approach that is entirely without any religious implications that would be problematic. At the same time it is a fun, exciting adventure that can be enjoyed on that level alone. Now that’s magic for you.
Marguerite C. Rizzi, EdD, is a writer, musician and educator based in Rhode Island. Her work of telling the stories of unknown heroes began with her dissertation, and continues in the documentary medium. Dr. Rizzi writes screen plays aimed at making the world a better place. She brings live improvisational music to the community as a performer and producer. After teaching numerous subjects at Boston University and the high school level, Dr. Rizzi served as a Special Education Director, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, and most recently for 10 years as a Superintendent of Schools in a large suburban school district. Her credits include several Grammy listed albums, academic articles, book reviews, and the documentary film, “American Hero.”
The Water Tree Way by Ruth Mendelson is a delightful adventure story, primarily written for children, but like so many of the best children’s books, there is a great deal here for adults as well. It is a bold and deep story full of wonder and action on the surface, and some of the most profound lessons of the ages beautifully nestled beneath.
The hero of the tale is a brave, energetic, curious ten year old girl named Jai (pronounced Jay). Like some of the most beloved children’s stories that have come before, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Harry Potter come to mind, it straddles both what we consider the ‘real’ world and some fantastical elements that take the reader into the worlds of inner life and greater truths. Like the mythic Hero’s Journey, articulated by Joseph Campbell, our protagonist accepts the call to leave her everyday life and embark on a great adventure, from which she returns with a gift for her community. Ms. Mendelson has sure handedly rendered this both entirely accessible and lots of fun for young readers, and older ones alike.
After meeting Jai in her ordinary world, we are soon taken to the magical Water Tree Grove, where Jai is invited to pick a leaf which will guide her on her adventure. It turns out to be no ordinary leaf, as among other things, it transforms itself into a variety of different birds to help her at important stages of the journey.
As Frodo does on his epic journey, and Dorothy does in Oz, Jai meets a number of characters along the way, each captivating, and each contributing a bit of knowledge or wisdom, both to her, and to us, the readers.
The adventure itself is exciting, fun, hair raising at times, a real page turner, as they say. It is also original, imaginative, visually rich, and full of wonder and unexpected surprises.
This in and of itself makes any book worth reading, entertaining and fun. Having said that, there is something else going on here as well, something more rare, and very important. What separates a nice book from one that is profound occurs on the level of meaning.
What Ms. Mendelson has managed to achieve here is an accessible tapping of what Deepak Chopra calls ‘the world’s great wisdom traditions.’ The solace for those who have experienced loss, the lessons of courage in the face of inevitable fear, the portrait of a deep and meaningful friendship between a girl and a boy are important. But beyond these are some topics that many writers avoid because the wisdom to tackle them is rare, even among adults. The clear assertion that there are consequences to our actions, some of which can cause powerful long term damage, is beautifully coupled with reliable and reassuring ways to repair and redeem them.
Perhaps the most important life lesson, and one most sorely needed in our time, is the unambiguous rejection of revenge, and the inevitable cycle of exponential destruction that it causes, up to and including some of the world’s most protracted wars. There is no sugar coating here, but there is an elegant path to the only viable choices for the peace and safety of the world. And yes, all done in a way that is enjoyable, understandable and nurturing. No mean feat in any genre.
During the 1960’s and early 70’s, the Manhattanville Music Curriculum Project developed a series of materials to reform music education based on the premise that high quality, if challenging, material is a far better way to teach children, respecting their intelligence and ability to engage, than easier, lower quality stuff written ‘for their level.’ It worked like a charm. As an educator I have found that this premise holds true in all other subject areas as well. So with that as a guiding principle when choosing books to add to a Reading or ELA curriculum, here is an example of a book that offers children highly sophisticated lessons that they can truly take through life, deeply respecting their ability to understand. Additionally, in a time when we are seeking ways to teach values and grounding truths to children, this book provides a multidimensional approach that is entirely without any religious implications that would be problematic. At the same time it is a fun, exciting adventure that can be enjoyed on that level alone. Now that’s magic for you.
Marguerite C. Rizzi, EdD, is a writer, musician and educator based in Rhode Island. Her work of telling the stories of unknown heroes began with her dissertation, and continues in the documentary medium. Dr. Rizzi writes screen plays aimed at making the world a better place. She brings live improvisational music to the community as a performer and producer. After teaching numerous subjects at Boston University and the high school level, Dr. Rizzi served as a Special Education Director, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, and most recently for 10 years as a Superintendent of Schools in a large suburban school district. Her credits include several Grammy listed albums, academic articles, book reviews, and the documentary film, “American Hero.”
March 10, 2021
This is the perfect read for #womenshistorymonth; the heroine Jai is a brave and curious 10yo comes to life in this realistic fantasy book. Readers will close this book uplifted and hopeful about the beauty of humanity.
We meet Jai in her real life first, and then readers are transported to the magical Water Tree Grove. There, Jai is invited to pick a leaf (far from ordinary) which will guide her on her adventure. The leaf transforms itself into a variety of different birds to help her at important stages of her journey.Jai meets captivating and wise characters along the way, each captivating, who impart a bit of knowledge and make for unexpected surprises. I loved how seamlessly a healthy boy/girl friendship, and the positive relationships with her dad and teachers that are showcased though out Jai’s adventures.
This book reminded me of a modern day PILGRIM’S PROGRESS where it offers children highly sophisticated lessons because the author respects their ability to think deeply about issues. They both have similar multidimensional approaches to discussing profound lessons on morality and ethics without “preaching” or crossing into “religion”.
The book simply takes readers on a path where actions have consequences. However, it is beautifully followed up with showing kids a better path of accountability and then how to show love and act in love so the world is safer and more at peace. What more can we ask from a children’s book?
My favorite quote from the book: “Stay centered and never return a mistake with a mistake.”
Accessible to younger and older readers as well as adults, THE WATER TREE WAY is a treasure must have book in your home or classroom library.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions, as always, are my own.
We meet Jai in her real life first, and then readers are transported to the magical Water Tree Grove. There, Jai is invited to pick a leaf (far from ordinary) which will guide her on her adventure. The leaf transforms itself into a variety of different birds to help her at important stages of her journey.Jai meets captivating and wise characters along the way, each captivating, who impart a bit of knowledge and make for unexpected surprises. I loved how seamlessly a healthy boy/girl friendship, and the positive relationships with her dad and teachers that are showcased though out Jai’s adventures.
This book reminded me of a modern day PILGRIM’S PROGRESS where it offers children highly sophisticated lessons because the author respects their ability to think deeply about issues. They both have similar multidimensional approaches to discussing profound lessons on morality and ethics without “preaching” or crossing into “religion”.
The book simply takes readers on a path where actions have consequences. However, it is beautifully followed up with showing kids a better path of accountability and then how to show love and act in love so the world is safer and more at peace. What more can we ask from a children’s book?
My favorite quote from the book: “Stay centered and never return a mistake with a mistake.”
Accessible to younger and older readers as well as adults, THE WATER TREE WAY is a treasure must have book in your home or classroom library.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions, as always, are my own.
March 9, 2021
What a well-crafted musical fantasy middle-grade book around the magical water tree groves! A free-spirited young girl, a mysterious leaf, magical water trees, a golden rule book, and an adventurous journey, this book has all the possible elements to keep you entertained till the end. The Water Tree Way is one such book that anyone can read irrespective of their age.
This book is an adventurous journey of Jai, a brave and courageous girl who is in search of a mysterious leaf from the water tree. Her mother told in her dreams that one of the water tree leaves belongs to her and it will be time soon for a great adventure. She tried daily to pluck that leaf, but no results, then the eldest water tree said, you are not ready for this adventure yet. There are so many mysteries that are revealed later in the story, so Join Jai on her adventurous journey where she learns so many lifelong lessons and finds the greatest treasure of her life.
I just loved the bonding Jay shares with her dad, teachers, and friends. This book is a mix of fantasy and mystery that keeps the reader fall in love with the book all over again. The book cover is also beautiful and enough to grab the attention of readers. This book teaches children to keep courage and faith in themselves and highlights the importance of friendship and family.
Perfect for 7+
Book is available on Amazon
This book is an adventurous journey of Jai, a brave and courageous girl who is in search of a mysterious leaf from the water tree. Her mother told in her dreams that one of the water tree leaves belongs to her and it will be time soon for a great adventure. She tried daily to pluck that leaf, but no results, then the eldest water tree said, you are not ready for this adventure yet. There are so many mysteries that are revealed later in the story, so Join Jai on her adventurous journey where she learns so many lifelong lessons and finds the greatest treasure of her life.
I just loved the bonding Jay shares with her dad, teachers, and friends. This book is a mix of fantasy and mystery that keeps the reader fall in love with the book all over again. The book cover is also beautiful and enough to grab the attention of readers. This book teaches children to keep courage and faith in themselves and highlights the importance of friendship and family.
Perfect for 7+
Book is available on Amazon
January 1, 2021
This is a “children’s” book, but wonderful for adults. I would say kids 10-12 and above would appreciate it, but there’s plenty for adults, too. Ten-year old Jai takes a great adventure and learns many lessons along the way. The reader will learn plenty, too! The lessons are about resilience, self-reliance, trusting friends, supporting friends, and most of all, asking for help! For children these days, it is helpful to see someone make mistakes and learn from them. This would be a great gift for a family!
January 7, 2021
Many times when I read a book or watch a movie, it feels like the story can't be my own story. It could be great fun, but it won't leave me feeling like I've changed. But 'The Water Tree Way' allowed the story to be personal to the reader. It felt like I was reading a story about myself; it was like I was learning how to walk on light, sewing the Leather of the Sun, or playing the Drum. It didn't feel like I was being told a story, but rather, it felt like I was experiencing the story. I think this is a very important book.
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January 9, 2021The Water Tree Way is a contemporary Pilgrims' Progress. And as one critic said it is a "book for children of all ages." The journey undertaken by the main character (Jai) is challenging and full of suspense and surprises. The author's rendering of the natural world along the way is remarkably detailed and inspiring. I am delighted to have "discovered" this book and will be recommending it to friends. Five stars.
Margo Culley, Professor of English Emerita, University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Margo Culley, Professor of English Emerita, University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
December 13, 2020
A beautiful, spirited story that speaks to your soul
Ruth Mendelson is an inspired author with a story for all ages. Fun, heartfelt, as irrepressible and bold as its heroine Jai, The Water Tree Way offers a wonderful journey along with wisdom everyone can use for their own great adventure: courage, commitment, compassion, and clarity. A joy to read, and see the world through Jai’s eyes.
Ruth Mendelson is an inspired author with a story for all ages. Fun, heartfelt, as irrepressible and bold as its heroine Jai, The Water Tree Way offers a wonderful journey along with wisdom everyone can use for their own great adventure: courage, commitment, compassion, and clarity. A joy to read, and see the world through Jai’s eyes.
January 7, 2021
WOW! This book is simply amazing! Though this book is meant for kids of ages 7++, I am 31 years old and loved it as though I was a 10 year old. I really felt like I was able to press 'refresh' on my life. This amazing magical adventure story is threaded with valuable life lessons for kids of all ages. I wish I had a book like this when I was growing up. If you know any kids of ANY ages, GET THEM THIS BOOK. Seriously though. Such magic.
February 1, 2021
A wonderful book that will take you on a journey to your own heart! I found myself laughing out loud, nodding my head in agreement, recollecting certain funny incidents from my own childhood and being touched by the simple spiritual principles so beautifully woven throughout the story. After finishing the book, I felt inspired to dust off a couple of childhood dreams I put on the shelf long ago and had forgotten about. Thank you Ruth Mendelson for this delightful book!
February 2, 2021
This relatable story opens the door for children to realize truths about life that will value them as they grow up and mature. But it is an equally beguiling story for adults. I absolutely loved it. The story is about a Great Adventure that a 10-year-old takes with the full support of her teacher and her classmates. It was a learning opportunity for everyone. This is a must-buy book that you will treasure forever.
February 12, 2021
The Water Tree Way is a timeless action-packed adventure story for all ages. Jai, the book's tenacious young heroine, follows her heart's vision with courage, spunk, humor, and the willingness to learn. Guided by teachers from the magical and natural worlds, she overcomes challenges and acquires powerful tools that bring her home to her true self. Ruth Mendelson has written a remarkable book full of wisdom and delight. Don't miss it!
March 29, 2021
My kids (4+6) and I LOVED this book! We were swept up in the story, cheering on the strong female main character and entranced by the amazing creatures she met and adventures she had. Little gems of wisdom like gratitude, intention, persistence, positive thinking, and non violence are woven seamlessly into the story but remain in our minds as we go about our days. We hope Mendelson has more books coming!
September 5, 2021
It is a rare gift when a book is written for kids that has such a deep and meaningful message for grown ups as well. This book is the type of book you will read more than once because the lessons are so beautiful. The hero’s journey inside these pages is so important for young people and adults to hear. I will be reading this story to my classrooms for years to come. Thank you for writing this adventure it is a light during challenging times.
February 3, 2021
Jai Jai Jai! The Water Tree Way is a beautiful book filled with many powerful (and practical) messages. I purchased 12 books and it’s been wonderful hearing the comments about the story from my sisters and friends. Also, it’s fabulous to have the Kindle edition as an option for purchase.
March 7, 2021
I bought this book for my 10 year old niece. Read it first. She will love it. Truly heart warming tale of a girl coming of age spiritually and mentally. In the end she learns self expression and its true value. As a childrens picture book author and I was truly touched by this beautiful story. ❤
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March 11, 2021A delightful story for all ages filled with life's lessons delivered in a soft, light, yet deeply inspiring narrative. As a teacher, I can easily see this book being read as a class, in book clubs, or individually.
April 11, 2021
I went into this book feeling angry and bitter about life and work during the pandemic. I fought the lessons this book offered until about halfway through something changed. I became more receptive to the words and ideas. And boom. Opens your heart, your ears and your eyes.
January 18, 2021
A wise and meditative story for kids of all ages- a 4th grader and up could read it to herself, or a younger child’s parents could read it aloud.
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October 17, 2023A charming adventure about a child who learns how to read the symbols and bring more life to her adventure of life (and to those around her).
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews