Who Was Confucius? by Michael Burgan

 Who Was ...? biography series for middle grade brings fascinating character namely Confucius –who is considered one of the greatest thinkers and teachers ever.

Confucius lived almost 2,600 years ago in an independent state that is now part of China. His real name was Kong Qiu.

During his time, children learned about the religious practices and songs which some shared moral lessons. From early age, he was drawn to behaving in the most respectable way. He was a smart student who used his knowledge to help those in need. When he became a teacher, he didn’t care how much a student could pay him. He cared how eager the student was to learn.

Even as he taught others, he always continued learning new things.

His fame spread. At forty, he was offered a job by a powerful ruler. He took part in diplomatic talks. He was good at illustrating the best way to find solution: to do things the right way. His general advice was to create a place where people would like to stay and others would like to move there. There had to be rules set by government but no total control over its subjects and respect toward each other.

Confucian ideas shaped China for centuries to come.

This biography illuminates a man who cared deeply about doing the right thing and how to live a good life.

This illustrated biography series for young readers, ages 8-12, is presented in a relatable way, with simple sentences and enriched with insightful inserts.

Published in 2020 by Penguin Workshop

 

TRENDING INSPIRATION: Have Courage to Do the Right Thing

 

Traits:

·         From childhood, he had a natural instinct to act justly

·         He used his knowledge to help those in need

·         As a teacher he cared how eager his student was, not how much he could pay him

·         He always continued learning new things

 

 

“Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but rising every time we fall.” – Confucius

“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” – Confucius

“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” – Confucius

“Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.” – Confucius

“Real knowledge is to know the extent of one’s ignorance.” – Confucius

“Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” – Confucius

“When anger rises, think of the consequences.” – Confucius

“If you think in terms of a year, plant a seed, if in terms of ten years, plant trees; if in terms of 100 years, teach the people.” – Confucius

“To be wronged is nothing unless you continue to remember it.” – Confucius

“We should feel sorrow, but not sink under its oppression.” – Confucius

“Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire.” – Confucius

“The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.” – Confucius

“Wisdom, compassion, and courage are the three universally recognized moral qualities of men.” – Confucius