This little book was originally part of The Nutshell Library, a set of four adorable miniature books written and illustrated by Maurice Sendak. “Pierre” was my favorite of the group by far, and I remember reading it aloud often to my younger brothers and sister.

I was reminded of Pierre this week while reading Kathleen Norris’s Acedia & Me. She explains that “acedia” is a Greek word meaning “a non-caring state.” She cites the little boy Pierre as a textbook case of acedia, since the only thing he ever said was “I don’t care.”

But Pierre does eventually learn how to care. Kathleen Norris tells the stories of her own journey towards learning the importance of caring as well. I can identify with both of them.