If there’s any spiritual concept we could all really learn—or re-learn—these days, it’s the interconnectivity of the planet and its inhabitants. Rather than revolving our lives around the seasons, we are mildly inconvenienced by them; instead of giving thanks for rain, we curse it; and we shoo away wild animals, passing legislation to cut their numbers instead of recognizing them as fellow beings in this experience we all share on Earth.

In All I See is Part of Me, a young boy realizes that the entire universe is part of him—and he, part of it. One day he decides to ask the sun, “Who are you?” To his astonishment, the sun replies, “We are one.” And so the boy embarks on a beautiful journey of discovery in which he learns that the sky, the stars, and everything on Earth are all connected to him.

“You’re larger than you know; you are every place there is to go,” Sister Star informs the boy, still incredulous about his discovery. He then witnesses something just as astonishing—a glowing light within his own body. Sister Star informs him that his body is just one small part of this glorious light within him, which connects him with all there is.

She tells him that he is part of everything—the animals, the plants, every person and thing on the planet. “Look inside each one you meet, and see your light—it’s so complete!” she says.

Wow, right? Just think if every child grew up with a copy of Chara M. Curtis’ beautiful book read to him or her each night. What would happen? Would each child, taught that he or she is connected to every other being there is and more, grow up with a certain love and respect for all people, all beings, all things? Would he or she take care to be more loving and kind, more respectful toward the Earth as well as its inhabitants? If we could see every member of our planet as a fellow sister or brother, imagine the changes that could be made.

It’s food for thought, anyway, and I would say a worthy experiment for your own child. With its gorgeous artwork (particularly of the animals and people of the world) and important message, it makes for a soothing bedtime story, comforting during times of uncertainty as well as a friend during the loneliest of nights.