Description "It's like a game of ping-pong, but it's not always fun, and it doesn't always go your way." Everyone has played a game of ping-pong at some point. Whether it's tennis or badminton, we hope the game continues joyfully, but in the end, all we can really do is send the ball back properly and with a good heart when it's our turn. Whether the other person hits it back well or not is simply out of our hands. Life is much the same, and so is the give-and-take of building relationships. All we can do is put our whole heart into what we choose to do. Mexican picture book author Ana Castillo uses the metaphor of a 'ping-pong game' to offer a clear answer to the worries we all face in our many relationships. Just as we focus on sending the ball well during our turn to keep the game fun, she suggests we can approach our relationships with friends, society, and the wider world in the same way. "To enjoy the game of ping-pong, you need to focus on the ball you send, and on yourself!" What matters most in a game of ping-pong is focusing on the ball you send. We steady our stance so the other person can receive it well, and we practice returning their shots skillfully. Through this process, we gain confidence in the game and come to know its joys. The same is true of the many relationships we form throughout life. If we focus on our own hearts rather than on the other person's reactions, and don't shrink back because of how they respond, we'll come to realize that sending our 'ping' is not a source of stress but something free and joyful. We'll also come to understand that it's something we must do passionately, persistently, and bravely. Then we'll be able to accept the other person's heart with ease, discover the sincerity behind it, and feel the joy that comes from building relationships. "Ping!" offers a clear and simple lesson on how to love and how to live. Through its adorable illustrations and easy-to-understand metaphors, children can easily grasp the attitude needed when sharing and receiving affection. A Comforting Book for Adults Hurt by Relationships, Too A Book That Reveals the Importance of 'Living as Yourself' In our social media age, we're becoming increasingly sensitive to others' attention and opinions. We want our efforts to be recognized, and we want others' interest and approval. Without it, we can feel discouraged, lonely, and small — but the more this happens, the more we need to focus on our own part in things. As the subtitle of this picture book suggests, loving and living should be done freely, bravely, and wisely. Even if we get hurt, even if it takes time, we must prepare and send out our next 'ping' again. "Ping!" offers comfort to adults who have been hurt in their relationships as well. It gives clear answers and courage, helping us move forward again instead of shrinking away.