Dhamma Books and Courses for Children, A Panel Discussion with Mélusine Martin, Björn Kiehne and Heidi Fivash
PariyattiSummary
A panel of authors and storytellers explores the intersection of children's literature and spiritual teachings in a recent discussion hosted by Pariyathi, a non-profit organization dedicated to disseminating Buddhist teachings. The panel features Melusine Martin, Bjorn Keen, Heidi Fivash, and facilitator Cora Goldberg, who delve into their experiences creating Dhamma children's books that aim to impart mindfulness and compassion to young readers.
Melusine shares her journey as a storyteller, emphasizing the importance of oral tradition and the inspiration behind her book, "The Five Kings," which addresses the five hindrances to spiritual practice. Bjorn discusses his collection of stories, which emerged from his work with children in Vipassana courses, highlighting the ease with which children engage with complex emotions. Heidi reflects on her book, "Barb Loves to Sit," which encourages family meditation practices and the joy of connecting with oneself.
The authors agree that storytelling serves as a powerful tool for addressing difficult topics, allowing children to explore emotions in a safe space. They emphasize the need for genuine engagement with their audience and the importance of creating a nurturing environment for storytelling. The conversation culminates in a shared understanding that while the world may be fast-paced and digital, the timeless nature of stories rooted in human experience remains relevant and essential for both children and adults alike.
Show Notes
Presented in August 2026, this Pariyatti Presents... event features a panel discussion with three authors of children's Dhamma books—Mélusine Martin, Björn Kiehne, and Heidi Fivash—led by Kory Goldberg.
Mélusine Martin, Björn Kiehne, Heidi Fivash and Kory Goldberg · August 2026 · 57 minutes
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