This book is intended to interest children and young adults. I hope it can serve as a tool for older folks to impart the lessons to young people that many of us learned growing up, without even realizing how they were shaping our lives. This isn't only a book of adages and heartwarming stories, but also a bit of insight into how life was when I was growing up DOWN HOME. The stories in this book emphasize issues that are not only important for children but also for adults: honesty, friendship, overcoming adversity, and believing in oneself, to name a few. They also highlight the need to believe in others at any age and thereby encourage them to always put forth their best effort, regardless of what they're doing. The stories illustrate that despite our mistakes or shortcomings, we can rise above circumstances and achieve success. Success isn't defined by wealth or prestige but by the qualities that make us who we are.