Thich Nhat Hanh is a Buddhist monk, poet, and peacemaker. He lives in Plum Village, a meditation center in France and travels worldwide, leading retreats on the art of mindful living. This children's book, illustrated by the beautiful paintings of artist Vo-Dinh Mai, is based on an actual event in Thich Nhat Hanh's life.
A young boy in Vietnam goes on a trip to a nearby mountain to meet a hermit who lives there. When he arrives on the top of the mountain with other members of his class, the hermit's hut is empty.
The young boy yearns to connect with this solitary individual who "sat quietly day and night to become peaceful like the Buddha." He goes deeper into the forest trying to locate the hermit on his own. Instead he finds a well filled with sweet water. The boy's quest gives him a happy realization and a spiritual understanding. This is an enchanting read and a fitting meditation on happiness.
