The Te of Piglet by Benjamin Hoff

“The Te of Piglet” is a book written by Benjamin Hoff, which was published in 1992. The book is a companion to his previous work, “The Tao of Pooh,” and it explores the principles of Taoism through the character of Piglet, one of the beloved characters in A.A. Milne’s “Winnie-the-Pooh” stories.

The book begins with an exploration of the concept of “Te,” which is the Chinese word for “virtue” or “power.” Hoff argues that Piglet embodies the principle of Te, as he is able to overcome his fear and timidity in order to help his friends in times of need.

Throughout the book, Hoff uses examples from the “Winnie-the-Pooh” stories to illustrate the principles of Taoism, such as the importance of balance, simplicity, and mindfulness. He also explores the dangers of ego, pride, and greed, which are seen as obstacles to achieving harmony and balance in one’s life.

One of the key themes of the book is the idea that small things can have a big impact. Hoff argues that Piglet’s small size and seemingly insignificant role in the stories are actually what make him a powerful symbol of Taoist virtue. He also suggests that we can all learn from Piglet’s humility and willingness to embrace his limitations.

Overall, “The Te of Piglet” is a charming and insightful book that offers a unique perspective on the principles of Taoism. It is likely to be of interest to anyone who is a fan of the “Winnie-the-Pooh” stories or who is interested in exploring the philosophy of Taoism in a lighthearted and accessible way.