Nana, The Yoga Teaching Gnome (Gnome Series)

Nana, the Yoga Teaching Gnome, is the first book in the Gnome Series by Jennifer Lang Boehl. This creative story follows twin gnomes on their journey through the woods. Along the way, they meet some quirky characters that help them find their way to Nana's house for some yoga. This colorful, whimsical tale is wholly done in rhyme and is sure to be a favorite. Stress will melt away when readers absorb this magical tale of friends, tranquility, and playfulness. Emily and Josephine, two young gnomes who live in an enchanted forest, set off one day in search of Nana, a gnome who teaches the wood's inhabitants yoga. Along the way, the girls meet a bevy of animal friends who teach them yoga poses and join their quest to meet up with Nana. Young readers will delight in the bubbly pair as they convince frazzled forest animals to take a break and do "some yoga on this warm and sunny day." In this first installment of her Gnome Series, Boehl (That's Mine, Sissy!) has crafted a charming story centered on learning how to be grateful and live in the moment. Emily and Josephine gain a bundle of whimsical new friends on their walk to Nana's house, including a fly with "a head full of fuzz," a fox whose favorite pose is downward facing dog, and an owl who wonders if yoga would eliminate his stress. The lesson on managing frustrations won't be lost on younger readers when the "mischievous troll" demands a toll for crossing his bridge-but later relents because "yoga would make me less grumpy!"Roperos's dreamy illustrations meld with the story's mythical feel, and kids will enjoy pointing out the entertaining details-like the tiny fly demonstrating a yoga pose on its mat-that add life to the tale. Health-minded parents will appreciate the introduction to making exercise fun, complete with gentle reminders to incorporate thankfulness into daily meditations. When Nana finally makes her appearance, she encourages the animals to "release all your worries" and leads the whole crew in a beautiful twilight yoga session, courtesy of the resident fireflies. This warm tale will leave readers feeling mellow and relaxed.Takeaway: Two young gnomes learn the benefits of yoga alongside their enchanted animal friends in this charming tale.Great for fans of: Mariam Gates's Goodnight Yoga, Nicola Edwards's Happy.