Legend of the Boatman

'Somewhere far away, there is an island;

where flowers grow in a warm breeze.

And on this island lived a boatman

who sailed there from far overseas.'

This modern-day fairy tale tells of how the 'Legend of the Boatman' became the legend. The legend who came from the stars to help these dogs forevermore.

The Boatman travels from town to town to sell some of his flowers. Every place he visits, he sees homeless dogs. He really wishes that he could help them, and one day, he wishes too much!

It is only when the dogs dream that we realise that the Legend of the Boatman and the dogs are able to transcend themselves to an even greater joy.

We follow the Legend of the Boatman as he takes them on amazing journeys in his boat.

'Tales of the Boatman's Dogs' is a series of children's picture books about dogs.

'Monsoon Dogs' follows a young mom called Maya as she guides and protects her puppies from the monsoon rains. 'Carnival Dogs' follows three puppies as they seek shelter from the harsh climate by following a travelling fair. 'Polar Dogs' follows three snow dogs as they manage to get lost from their pack. The final story, called 'Temple Dogs', revisits a dog from each of the previous stories as they unite and create a great team.

These folk stories relate to the simple rhythm of life, which could be located anywhere in the world. Places in the world where it is hot and places where it is cold. Places where there are temples and fun fairs. Places, even out of this world!

Follow them for just the one day and one night, with their simple beat of life again and again and again.

They may not have much; they may not need much, but they may want you!

These beautifully illustrated picture books are suitable for children aged between four to nine. A great bedtime read or a classroom story to encourage discussions on animal kindness and the environment. Each of the books offers readers an opportunity to discuss environmental issues, if they so wish.

Teaching kids about nature is an important part of their education and also an important part of how they can make a difference in the future. Each picture below may be, or may not be, used to teach children about an issue in nature.

Issues that may be discussed include:

Transportation of flowers.

Preservation of flowers for sale.

Pollution from pesticides.

Benefits from buying locally.

Buying seasonal flowers.

Sustainable packaging.

The Law and protecting flowers.

Biodiversity benefits.

Recycling flowers.

Other books by Thurston Jones;