Barton has collected a wealth of more than two hundred poems, verses, blessings, and meditations on childhood and growing up—meaningful words for parents, caretakers, teachers, and children. The Winding Road includes works by ancient and modern poets, from Gaelic blessings to Navajo prayers, from William Blake to Eleanor Farjeon and Brian Patten.

This rich anthology comes from folk sources, poets, and many different religious traditions. This inspiring treasury is ideal for celebrating all of life’s early stages and events, from birth to adolescence: christenings, birthdays and rites of passage, as well as morning graces and evening prayers.