Bücher von Tara L Nielsen

Pretending to be warriors and soldiers, boys are then taught that they already have what it takes to be real soldiers of the heart. They are reminded that bravery is shown through courage, love, honor, honesty, and service. Every day challenges are presented in the form of sadness, handicaps, illness, and every day needs. Boys are offered ways to help and aid others, as true soldiers must. In the end, boys are told to take these qualities necessary to be a soldier and fight for truth and honor in all things. They are taught to stand up for others, to assist in daily activities that are difficult for others to manage, to share compassion, and to be a friend.

After the end of a board is damaged, it is cut off and discarded. It is kicked about, and left in the scrap pile to be burned. Rescued by a young boy, the wood believes, for a moment, that it may still have value. However, the boy and his friends abuse the wood through rough play, and leave it forgotten in the wet, cold shadow of a building. Believing itself not to be of any value, the wood is surprised when the master carver takes him home and offers to turn him into something beautiful. Although he does not fully believe it is possible, the wood finally agrees, and the master carver turns the wood into a beautiful music box.