PBT God Book #12

Picture Book: What Does the Sky Say?

Author: Nancy White Carlstrom

Illustrator: Tim Ladwig

Summary: “What does the sky say on a winter day when snow is falling and a mother is calling her little girl to dinner?” Thus begins this lovely book. The question is answered, “Remember. Go in and be fed and loved, but don’t forget to look out the window.” Other questions follow, asking what the sky says in different weather and seasons. Each time a possible answer is offered that encourages the young girl to embrace the joy and learning that each day can bring. Between the lines is a subtle message that God is the provider of these varied and beautiful sky messages.

Hanna’s Comments: This is what I call a contemplative book which encourages readers (children & adults) to attend to and consider the beauty and life-giving messages of God’s creation. God is not mentioned in this text, but the possibility of God as the creator of the skies and the encourager of the young girl's contemplation is throughout. The questions, tone, and affirming answers celebrate God’s presence and our potential to discern meaning and joy from what we may experience. You’ll find Psalm 19:1-4 (The heavens are telling the glory of God…) in the back of the book.

Publisher & Date of Publication: Eerdmans Books, 2001

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 4 and up, Pre and up

Formats other than Book: None at present

Scripture Connections: In the beginning, God created the heavens (Genesis 1:1); when I look at Your heavens, the work of Your fingers (Psalm 8:3); the heavens are telling the glory of God (Psalm 19:1-4)

Idea(s) for Application: Use this book at a church family retreat while you are gathered outside. If possible, have a couple of young girls dramatically represent the ideas in the book. Then encourage your audience to offer their own meanings to each kind of sky.