New Blog Series - PBT's Grab & Go #2

Here's another secular book, already featured on PBT, that is super easy to use in sacred settings. Just read my post below, grab the book, and go. Consider your audience when deciding which to offer first, the story or scripture. Then simply encourage your listeners (children or adults) to find the connections and consider where the holiness is in these wonderful pages. 

Picture Book: A Sick Day for Amos McGee

Author: Philip C. Stead

Illustrator: Erin E. Stead

Summary: Amos is a volunteer at a zoo where he has hilarious daily rituals with specific animals. The day he doesn’t show up, a group of his animal friends rides the bus to his home to check on him and engage in those important rituals. Because of Amos’ low energy, some rituals have to be adapted. Soon all are ready for a good night’s sleep at Amos’ house, all snuggled in together.  

Hanna’s Comments: This story is full of ministry applications because Amos and the animals are so attentive and present with one another in their rituals. Additionally, the story and illustrations are hilarious! It would be a wonderful gift for someone who is recuperating from an illness or a grandchild whose grandparent is ill. I recently read this book to an adult Sunday School class and they loved it! There were obvious connections between Amos’ daily inclinations and the way Jesus would meet people right where they were and give healing and attention.
Original Publisher & Date: Roaring Brook Press, 2010

Age and Grade Appropriateness: 3 and up, Preschool and up

Formats other than Book: Audio book

Scripture Connections: The Woman at the Well (John 4), 3 of the Beatitudes – Blessed are the meek, the merciful, and the pure in heart (Matthew 5)

Idea(s) for Application: Use this book as a part of a Stephen Ministry (or any caregiving) training. For children, this book could help explore subjects of honoring and respecting elderly family members or church members.