The Circle of Kindness

Book excerpt: The team that made international best-sellers of "The Secrets of Pistoulet" and "Dancing with the Moon" returns with a powerful new tale of transformation and the healing power of love, this one set in Ireland, that most magical and warm-hearted of countries. "In the enchanted Irish countryside of ancient forests, singing bridges, and babbling brooks stands a thatch-roofed pink cottage overlooking the sea. In all of Ireland there's no place finer to have a cup of tea. On the door of that cottage is a timeless symbol that recalls travelers home no matter how far they've roamed. And in the heart of that cottage is a compassion and generosity whose warmth and wonder turn the world." Thus begins "Circle of Kindness," a finely wrought fable about Mademoiselle J. and an act of kindness that touches the lives of several people, finding expression in a gift of nurturing and food. Like its predecessors, this book is beautifully written and exquisitely illustrated and features booklet inserts, pocket cards, and envelopes with uplifting sentiments. The book's beautiful Irish message has already inspired a matching line of china from Pfaltzgraff, which will be available this fall.