The books main purpose is to plant the seed for childrens spiritual development at a young age. Whats explained in a simple and clear manner are the concepts (or virtues) and importance of being patient, brave, loving, wise, kind and strong; essential virtues for attaining understanding. As is well known, the first years of life determine the future behavior of a human being. The book is designed to be read by parents and their children. Each virtue is represented by an animal, as in the original artwork by William Stratts also called the Peace Painting. This painting was based on descriptions of virtues from writings of the Pre-Nicean Fathers. The animals chosen were those that best portrayed each trait. The idea for the book was conceived by the authors son who at six years old created the oil paintings which illustrate the book. His curiosity, observing a copy of the Peace Painting that we have at home, prompted him to suggest the book so that other children could learn these virtues. - from Amzon