Although it assumes the format of a children’s picture book, Jocelyn Pinet’s Human Nature seems best suited to older teen and adult readers. Pinet looks to natural phenomena and animal behaviour for guidance on leading a balanced life. The African baobab, for instance, teaches by its example that resource management will help us endure life’s challenges. The caterpillar lends wisdom about personal transformation, the snail emphasizes the importance of refuge, and the single blade of grass represents an important individual contribution to a field of change. Véronique Dumas’s simple black and white illustrations capture the essence of Pinet’s philosophies. This is a book to be savoured. mRb