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The Lesson: A Fable for Our Times
Original edition has sold more than 85,000 copies Told in the charming, straightforward tradition of a classic fable, and illustrated as richly as a favorite children?s story, Pearson?s modern-day tale will inspire every adult facing his or her own life challenges. Carol Lynn Pears on is the author of more than forty books and plays, including Goodbye, I Love You and I?ll Always Be Your Daughter. She is also the author of a variety of poetry, musicals, and plays. She lives in Walnut Creek, California. Kathleen Peters on received her B.A. in commercial art from Brigham Young University. Her work in watercolor, pastel, oil, and batik has been displayed in galleries throughout Utah as well as Malaysia and Hawaii. She lives in Utah.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published August 26, 1998
4 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Carol Lynn Pearson
93 books123 followersFrom http://www.clpearson.com/about_me.htm
In fourth grade, in Gusher, Utah, I won four dollars in a school district essay contest on “Why We Should Eat a Better Breakfast.” And yes, this morning I had a bowl of my own excellent granola, followed by a hike in the hills near my home in Walnut Creek, California.
In high school I began writing in earnest. I have now in my files a folder marked “Poetry, Very Bad,” and another, “Poetry, Not Quite So Bad.” Writing served a good purpose for that very dramatic, insecure adolescent. Also at that time I began to keep a diary, which I still maintain and which has been indescribably useful to me both as a writer and as a pilgrim on the earth.
After graduating from Brigham Young University with an MA in theatre, teaching for a year in Utah at Snow College, and traveling for a year, I taught part-time at BYU in the English department and was then hired by the motion picture studio on campus to write educational and religious screenplays.
While performing at the university as Mrs. Antrobus in Thornton Wilder’s “The Skin of Our Teeth,” I met and fell in love with Gerald Pearson, a shining, blond, enthusiastic young man, who fell in love with me and my poems.
“We’ve got to get them published,” he said on our honeymoon, and soon dragged me up to the big city, Salt Lake City, to see who would be first in line to publish them. “Poetry doesn’t sell,” insisted everyone we spoke to, and I, somewhat relieved, put publishing on the list of things to do posthumously.
But not Gerald. “Then I’ll publish them,” he said. Borrowing two thousand dollars, he created a company called “Trilogy Arts” and published two thousand copies of a book called Beginnings, a slim, hard-back volume with a white cover that featured a stunning illustration, “God in Embryo,” by our good friend Trevor Southey, now an internationally known artist. On the day in autumn of 1967 that Gerald delivered the books by truck to our little apartment in Provo, I was terrified. I really had wanted to do this posthumously.
Beginnings
Today
You came running
With a small specked egg
Warm in your hand.
You could barely understand,
I know,
As I told you of Beginnings–
Of egg and bird.
Told, too,
That years ago you began,
Smaller than sight.
And then,
As egg yearns for sky
And seed stretches to tree,
You became–
Like me.
Oh,
But there’s so much more.
You and I, child,
Have just begun.
Think:
Worlds from now
What might we be?–
We, who are seed
Of Deity.
We toted a package of books up to the BYU bookstore, and asked to see the book buyer. “Well,” she said, “nobody ever buys poetry, but since you’re a local person, let me take four on consignment.” As they came in packages of twenty, we persuaded her to take twenty--on consignment. Next day she called and asked, “Those books you brought up here. Do you have any more of them?”
I had anticipated that the two thousand books, now stacked in our little closet and under our bed and in my Daddy’s garage, would last us years and years as wedding presents. But immediately we ordered a second printing. Beginnings sold over 150,000 copies before we gave it to Doubleday and then to Bookcraft.
Beginnings was followed by other volumes of poetry: The Search, The Growing Season, A Widening View, I Can’t Stop Smiling, and Women I Have Known and Been. Most of the poems from the earlier books now appear in a compilation, Beginnings and Beyond. The poems have been widely reprinted in such places as Ann Landers’ column, the second volume of Chicken Soup for the Soul, and college textbooks such as Houghton Mifflin’s Structure and Meaning: an Introduction to Literature. That first little volume of verse, and my husband’s determination, laid the foundation for my entire career.
Another characteristic of my husband was to have a profound effect on both
In fourth grade, in Gusher, Utah, I won four dollars in a school district essay contest on “Why We Should Eat a Better Breakfast.” And yes, this morning I had a bowl of my own excellent granola, followed by a hike in the hills near my home in Walnut Creek, California.
In high school I began writing in earnest. I have now in my files a folder marked “Poetry, Very Bad,” and another, “Poetry, Not Quite So Bad.” Writing served a good purpose for that very dramatic, insecure adolescent. Also at that time I began to keep a diary, which I still maintain and which has been indescribably useful to me both as a writer and as a pilgrim on the earth.
After graduating from Brigham Young University with an MA in theatre, teaching for a year in Utah at Snow College, and traveling for a year, I taught part-time at BYU in the English department and was then hired by the motion picture studio on campus to write educational and religious screenplays.
While performing at the university as Mrs. Antrobus in Thornton Wilder’s “The Skin of Our Teeth,” I met and fell in love with Gerald Pearson, a shining, blond, enthusiastic young man, who fell in love with me and my poems.
“We’ve got to get them published,” he said on our honeymoon, and soon dragged me up to the big city, Salt Lake City, to see who would be first in line to publish them. “Poetry doesn’t sell,” insisted everyone we spoke to, and I, somewhat relieved, put publishing on the list of things to do posthumously.
But not Gerald. “Then I’ll publish them,” he said. Borrowing two thousand dollars, he created a company called “Trilogy Arts” and published two thousand copies of a book called Beginnings, a slim, hard-back volume with a white cover that featured a stunning illustration, “God in Embryo,” by our good friend Trevor Southey, now an internationally known artist. On the day in autumn of 1967 that Gerald delivered the books by truck to our little apartment in Provo, I was terrified. I really had wanted to do this posthumously.
Beginnings
Today
You came running
With a small specked egg
Warm in your hand.
You could barely understand,
I know,
As I told you of Beginnings–
Of egg and bird.
Told, too,
That years ago you began,
Smaller than sight.
And then,
As egg yearns for sky
And seed stretches to tree,
You became–
Like me.
Oh,
But there’s so much more.
You and I, child,
Have just begun.
Think:
Worlds from now
What might we be?–
We, who are seed
Of Deity.
We toted a package of books up to the BYU bookstore, and asked to see the book buyer. “Well,” she said, “nobody ever buys poetry, but since you’re a local person, let me take four on consignment.” As they came in packages of twenty, we persuaded her to take twenty--on consignment. Next day she called and asked, “Those books you brought up here. Do you have any more of them?”
I had anticipated that the two thousand books, now stacked in our little closet and under our bed and in my Daddy’s garage, would last us years and years as wedding presents. But immediately we ordered a second printing. Beginnings sold over 150,000 copies before we gave it to Doubleday and then to Bookcraft.
Beginnings was followed by other volumes of poetry: The Search, The Growing Season, A Widening View, I Can’t Stop Smiling, and Women I Have Known and Been. Most of the poems from the earlier books now appear in a compilation, Beginnings and Beyond. The poems have been widely reprinted in such places as Ann Landers’ column, the second volume of Chicken Soup for the Soul, and college textbooks such as Houghton Mifflin’s Structure and Meaning: an Introduction to Literature. That first little volume of verse, and my husband’s determination, laid the foundation for my entire career.
Another characteristic of my husband was to have a profound effect on both
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
September 10, 2016
This brief story has a heartwarming message. Pearson takes large themes and distills them into a feel-good story. It is about a boy named Robert solving problems with his teacher in school. After a few more pages, it becomes clear there is a deeper meaning behind the story elements. There are nice illustrations accompanying the words; they look like they have been done with colored pencils.
My little sister gave me this to read because she knows I am facing some problems to solve in my own life and that was so sweet of her. I think I enjoyed the story even more because of that.
My little sister gave me this to read because she knows I am facing some problems to solve in my own life and that was so sweet of her. I think I enjoyed the story even more because of that.
June 29, 2010
This is a small book that EVERYONE needs to own, read and re-read. Go find a copy right now.
I just re-read this book this weekend (6/27/2010) and am still unable to finish it without crying. This book says so much more than the words on the pages. It speaks to your heart. If you haven't read this book yet you're missing a wonderful opportunity for growth.
I just re-read this book this weekend (6/27/2010) and am still unable to finish it without crying. This book says so much more than the words on the pages. It speaks to your heart. If you haven't read this book yet you're missing a wonderful opportunity for growth.
January 19, 2020
This quick read is an unique take on life. Written in the style of a children's book, we watch as the main character grow up as he solves life's "story problems". At first, it seemed odd this book was categorized under Adult rather than Juvenile because the context seemed like something you would typically find in a children's book; it wasn't until the story reaches the character's adult years and covers more sensitive subjects that it's classification becomes clear. Cleverly written and enjoyable to read. I would recommend it for someone looking for a quick read or a pick-me-up while dealing with life's tough moments.
September 2, 2020
The sort fable describes the "problem solving" that a child must learn in each grade of school. The fable is essentially talking about the problems and challenging that we all face as we go through life. As we progress from children to adults, Life (& God) gives us new problems to solve each step of the way, and they get harder and more complicated. As we learn and grown, we move "to the next class." Life is a school...not alway an easy one. 3.5 stars
February 18, 2018
A sweet story about what life is about: love. The lesson about how we have to go through trials “problems” and figure out a way to be happy when we solve them is so applicable. Everyone should read this short story.
January 14, 2020
It was fine for what it is. A boy solves problems presented by his teacher and keeps learning and growing and advancing. By the second story problem it is evident that this is not just a classroom in a brick and mortar school building.
October 28, 2020
This seemingly simple little fable is really a touching and beautifully insightful look at life and the lessons, from the easy to the oh-so-difficult, we learn along the way. Inspirational and thought-provoking.
5 stars
5 stars
February 6, 2018
I saw this on my bookshelf and decided to reread it. It is a very short story with a very big message. It would be a great book to discuss with friends.
December 13, 2018
Wow. This is what life is all about. Brought me to tears. This is so beautiful.
June 3, 2021
Brilliant, I read it as a grandpa reading to his kids, but in group. They love it.
September 2, 2023
I love Carol Lynn Pearson and this is a beautiful little book.
November 6, 2025
Robert, the subject, learns he must solve his own problems to grow and advance through life.
February 28, 2014
I recently received this adorable picture book as a gift from a friend. She was leaving for Orlando, Florida and I probably wouldn’t see her for a while. This was a family favorite of hers and she was excited to share it with me.
Now that I’ve read The Lesson: A Fable for Our Times, I can see why she liked it so much.
This book is a fantastic bedtime story. It’s a unique little tale told in such a way to make it interesting for children while providing a more complex and heart-felt message to adults. It discusses the loving relationship between a teacher and student as he worked through his various problems.
While he was young, the student’s problems were simple and easy to solve. Each time he solved a problem, he moved up a grade and had to face more difficult problems. Some problems took years to solve, but his teacher was patient and understanding, and the student loved the feeling of finishing a problem. Some problems were too difficult to solve so they had to be put aside for another time.
While the message is cute, I think it’s the illustrations that provide a fun twist to the book. The pictures have a scribble-like technique which gives it a child-like feel without distracting from the adult lessons we can learn. It’s pretty stylistic, though, so I can see why some readers might lose interest fairly quickly.
As with most children’s books based specifically on teaching a lesson, it can feel a bit preachy and the concept may be too adult for some children to really enjoy. But, I enjoyed it nonetheless. The lesson that can be learned is timeless and applies to everyone. If you’re looking for a cute gift, then I think it’s a story worth sharing with others.
Now that I’ve read The Lesson: A Fable for Our Times, I can see why she liked it so much.
This book is a fantastic bedtime story. It’s a unique little tale told in such a way to make it interesting for children while providing a more complex and heart-felt message to adults. It discusses the loving relationship between a teacher and student as he worked through his various problems.
While he was young, the student’s problems were simple and easy to solve. Each time he solved a problem, he moved up a grade and had to face more difficult problems. Some problems took years to solve, but his teacher was patient and understanding, and the student loved the feeling of finishing a problem. Some problems were too difficult to solve so they had to be put aside for another time.
While the message is cute, I think it’s the illustrations that provide a fun twist to the book. The pictures have a scribble-like technique which gives it a child-like feel without distracting from the adult lessons we can learn. It’s pretty stylistic, though, so I can see why some readers might lose interest fairly quickly.
As with most children’s books based specifically on teaching a lesson, it can feel a bit preachy and the concept may be too adult for some children to really enjoy. But, I enjoyed it nonetheless. The lesson that can be learned is timeless and applies to everyone. If you’re looking for a cute gift, then I think it’s a story worth sharing with others.
July 22, 2012
I'm not sure I could ever overstate how much I thoroughly adore and admire the writings of Carol Lynn Pearson. She is so poignant and goes straight to the heart of the matter.
This is a very short and simple fable about a boy learning about story problems. At the beginning of his life they are easy: 1+1=? but as he gets older, the problems get harder and sometimes he didn't want to solve the problems. He wanted to crawl under his desk and hide. His teacher would always smile and tell him that these were his problems and he had to solve them, but she would help. Everytime Robert solved a problem, the boy was happier.
This is a very short and simple fable about a boy learning about story problems. At the beginning of his life they are easy: 1+1=? but as he gets older, the problems get harder and sometimes he didn't want to solve the problems. He wanted to crawl under his desk and hide. His teacher would always smile and tell him that these were his problems and he had to solve them, but she would help. Everytime Robert solved a problem, the boy was happier.
February 19, 2013
I love anything by Carol Lynn Pearson. After reading this a little too quickly and then reading other reviews, I have come to the conclusion that this little but powerful fable should not be read on a Kindle. The beauty is lost on the black and white screen. I'll have to find a hard copy so I can see the beautiful illustrations people talk about. It is a very meaningful tale though of all of our lives. I especially felt the weight of it towards the end when so many difficult problems were compounded one on top of the other. The answer is simple, and oh so helpful. Thank you once again, Carol Lynn Pearson.
May 7, 2008
A fabulous little book arrived in the mail today from my sister-in-law, Kaylene. It is a simple little fable about a boy and his story problems. As he succeeds in solving each set of problems he moves up a class. Of course, the problem solving is mixed in with the fun stuff and recess. And he learns to enjoy the story problems.
I just hope that this current set of problems we face means we have moved up a level and not just failed it the first time around. You hope you have learned something with each problem you solve.
I just hope that this current set of problems we face means we have moved up a level and not just failed it the first time around. You hope you have learned something with each problem you solve.
April 6, 2009
"Robert's teacher gave him all kinds of problems, and he eventually learned it was no use to hide under his desk or to tell her no or to yell. They were his problems and he would have to solve them. And sometimes a new one came before the last one was finished. There was recess, and there were weekends, and there were long holidays. But always the bell would ring and there was his teacher with a new problem. And as soon as he got it solved he was moved up to the next grade. And it felt good." Love the meaning and the depth behind a simple story.
March 8, 2008
This is a small book that is often given as a gift. It carries a powerful message. Carol Lynn Pearson takes the concept of "story problems" as we learn in school and applies it to all of life. she shows us that story problems don't end with a diploma. Sometimes the most challenging one are those we have to figure out as we grow older and have more life experiences. This book makes a great graduation gift or a great gift for anyone who needs the message.
December 21, 2011
I love this book, and again it has a strong tradition in our family. Every year growing up we would have our favorite teacher for a "teacher appreciation dinner" and we would read this book and gift it to them at the end of the evening. I have become extremely passionate about teaching and it may be, in part, due to this book. But it is not only about teaching, it is really about the life lessons we can and should learn as we go through life... "and he moved on to the next grade."
September 23, 2012
Robert's teacher gives him problems to solve...
"This is not fun!" exclaims Robert.
As Robert grows bigger...so do his problems.
Sometimes Robert makes mistakes...but in the end...and with the help of his patient teacher he always solves the problems.
Sometimes he asks the teacher why he is being punished with all of these problems....
But in the end Robert learns that he is there to learn and that the learning makes him happy.
"This is not fun!" exclaims Robert.
As Robert grows bigger...so do his problems.
Sometimes Robert makes mistakes...but in the end...and with the help of his patient teacher he always solves the problems.
Sometimes he asks the teacher why he is being punished with all of these problems....
But in the end Robert learns that he is there to learn and that the learning makes him happy.
July 2, 2008
I don't know how to rate children's books--even if they are children's books for adults. The investment of time and effort is so small, it's hard to feel ripped off and easy to be pleased.
Does this book make me cry like a little boy? Yes. Is it contrived? Yes. Does that cheapen it? I don't know.
Does this book make me cry like a little boy? Yes. Is it contrived? Yes. Does that cheapen it? I don't know.
September 23, 2010
A touching story of a boy facing and conquering one problem in life after another.
Carol Lynn Pearson has created some beautiful gift books. If you are looking for a gift for a spouse, a friend, your mother/daughter or someone who is struggling with a trial look no further. These elegant gift books are the perfect answer. Each book has a touching message to share with someone you love.
Carol Lynn Pearson has created some beautiful gift books. If you are looking for a gift for a spouse, a friend, your mother/daughter or someone who is struggling with a trial look no further. These elegant gift books are the perfect answer. Each book has a touching message to share with someone you love.
January 13, 2020
This book was given to my family by a close friend a few years ago. I read it at least 3 or 4 times a year. If I were teaching a course on weathering trials well, I would include this as a companion book to Hard Times and Holy Places by Kris Belcher. This one only takes about 10 minutes to read but leaves you thinking for hours afterward.
April 9, 2013
Right after Christmas, I went to Seagull Book to return a tie. I had Megan and Haley with me. Megan had some money and she picked up this book and a couple of journals off the $1.99 shelf. I didn't look very closely at it at the time (neither did she - she is 8), but I later saw it in her room and picked it up and read it. It is a very short fable about life and its challenges. I liked it.
April 10, 2008
A family member gave me this book when I was going through a really tough life challenge. It is a thoughtful fable about a teacher and a student. It was comforting in a time difficulty. I still pull it out from time to time. I can always use a reminder about how best to look at my problems.
April 11, 2008
I got this book as a gift and I love it. It is a short, simple story that has deep meaning about the lessons in life that help us grow. It is short enough to read to kids. The illustrations aren't awesome, but are nice.
September 5, 2008
This book is amazing. Perfect for gift giving, especially for anyone who is struggling with something in his life. Or, it is just a poignant reminder of why we are here: to learn! It made me cry and reminded me that the Grand Teacher is unconditionally loving.
January 3, 2009
Insightful parable about life, comparing it to going to school and learning lessons. There are deep meanings with many layers. It can be read multiple times at different stages with different understandings.
July 23, 2010
This is a very sweet book with deep meaning that can be read in less than 10 minutes. We read this as a family. This would be a good one to own and pull out when you or someone in your family is having a hard time.
January 12, 2009
Wow! I love this book. It's a great representation of how we must all face and solve life's problems throughout our entire life, and what matters most in life. I highly recommend this to young and old!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews