"Do not impose on others what you do not wish for yourself."
Confucius was born in 551BC. He went from poverty to being one of the world's greatest philosopher's. Russell Freedman highlights the life of Confucius, the serious philosopher, the witty man as well as other attributes in his book, Confucius: The Golden Rule. Young readers learn Confucius' family name is Kong, and they are entertained by humorous stories such as the tongue lashing he gave a young man. In this narrative, Freedman combines biographical facts with Chinese history, and stories from the Analects which Freedmans includes at the beginning of the book. Each chapter provides interesting aspects of the philosopher's life and experiences which makes readers feel they are gaining better insight on this complicated man. Freedman goes the extra mile to orient readers by offering other reading suggestions and quotation sources from the analects at the end of the book.
Clement's illustrations are remarkable. Each page contains illustrations that resemble Chinese style painting full of bright and vibrant color intertwined with neutral tones. His images of Confucius as a boy and as he matures are noteworthy.
Because of the clear and easy to comprehend language, the book is a wonderful introduction to Confucius for young and older readers. Young lovers of philosophy will appreciate this book!
