This review was published by The Children's Book and Media Review run by Brigham Young University.

Leo and Molly love their new neighborhood, and especially their neighbor, a panda named Stillwater. Stillwater gives their cat, Moss, a ride in his bike, dances ballet with Molly, tells stories to the children to teach them about hard work and patience, and demonstrates the importance of not being selfish, especially if there is something that he wants. Through the lessons that Stillwater teaches them in their daily activities, Leo and Molly learn about being good people and that making a difference to just one thing or one person is enough.

The stories in Zen Socks are based on traditional stories, such as “The Taste of Banzo’s Sword” and “The Star Thrower” to help emphasize that kindness, generosity, and compassion works. The stories teach nice lessons, but it does come across as being preachy and pedantic at times. The most impressive part of the book is the stunningly beautiful watercolor illustrations of the panda and the children. Readers of all ages will be able to enjoy this beautiful and thoughtful book. ( )

A philosophical Panda bear has great advice for two children. This book is a good introduction to zen teachings and a sweet way to teach about patience and practice, playing nicely, and doing what you can to help - even when it seems like you can never do enough. ( )

Leo and Molly, their cat Moss, and their panda friend Stillwater return in this fourth picture-book devoted to their Zen-centered adventures. Much like the first book, Zen Shorts, we see Stillwater gently offering his young friends some lessons here, whether through story or example. When Molly is eager to become a skilled ballerina, Stillwater shares the tale, "The Taste of Banzo's Sword," which emphasizes the importance of patience, in any new venture. When Leo attempts to assign Stillwater the role of "bad guy" in their games, Stillwater uses a plate of cookies to teach him a lesson, showing him that it is unkind and ungenerous to try to keep the best of everything for oneself. When the four companions head to the beach, they end up throwing stranded starfish back into the sea, lest they perish...

Much like its predecessors, Zen Socks pairs a gently entertaining and subtly thought-provoking text with gorgeous artwork. Jon J. Muth has created another winner here, and I finished the book with a deep sense of satisfaction. I appreciate the use of stories as teaching tools, so these books always appeal to me, and I was especially pleased to see the tale of "The Star Thrower," as it is one my father once used, in one of his most memorable sermons. As the author notes in his brief afterword, it is truly a tale with significance for people of many different faiths and belief systems. The illustrations, done in watercolor, are just lovely, with a luminous quality that holds the eye. I particularly enjoyed seeing Moss, as Muth captures his inimitable feline charm. Recommended to those readers who have enjoyed previous tales of Stillwater and his two human friends, or to anyone looking for children's stories with a Zen Buddhist background. ( )

This book is about children with a panda neighbor who teaches them lessons when they spend time together. He tells a story to the young boy and the illustrations change for that story. Very good illustrations and storyline.

Stillwater is a panda who lives across the way from Leo and Molly. Stillwater teaches about patience and sharing.