"Thoughts Are Things: Daily readings for children and their families" is a collection of daily devotionals for elementary and middle school-aged children and their families. The lessons in "Thoughts are Things" are simple and spiritual. Certain themes are repeated throughout the year, each in a unique way to appeal to a young and beginning reader. Simple, witty drawings accompanying each daily thought help illustrate the concepts. Throughout its varied and lively messages the book repeats and affirms a number of core themes: 1.Our mind is our most valuable asset. 2.A willingness to take action makes the difference between success and wishful thinking. 3.While I am responsible for me, service to others is among life's greatest rewards. 4.God is a mystery that offers many gifts, chief among them wisdom. Each day the reader is offered three distinct items written at a level that is appropriate for an elementary or middle-school reader: a concept for the day, a reading that expounds on that day's concept and a repetitive affirmation which your child will quickly memorize and is encouraged to recite aloud after completing that day's reading. "I am smart, happy and healthy. My parents love me. God has given me many gifts. I can do anything I want to if I make a plan, concentrate and work toward it every day." All of the theology in these 366 days emanates from those four simple sentences. Gratitude. Responsibility. The power of the mind. The importance of God. The need for action. Positive thinking. Unconditional love. In addition to Christian theology, Thoughts are Things draws on the works of Greek and Roman philosophers, Native American teachers and some of the greatest American thinkers. It even includes the influence of a football coach or two. All humans, but especially children, are susceptible to the impact of repetitive teaching and suggestion. The best time to introduce a program of positive life skills is long before a child's daily exposure to the dampening effect of worldly pessimism. While it is written in a way that is accessible and enjoyable for beginning readers, these daily readings are provocative enough to bring parents-and all adults-back to them year after year.