PBT Redux #27 No Dogs Allowed

I’m on vacation this week so I'm going with a repeat of a post about a book celebrating the joys of getting away. This story about a fun day trip was one of my favorite discoveries during my first year of PBT. That year I posted about a book every day! You can take this comical story in many serious directions or stay with the fun of it. Spiritual practices that it touches on include hospitality, inclusion, accommodation, rule following, feasting, and being present when someone (or some group) is left out.  

Picture Book: No Dogs Allowed

Author: Sonia Manzano

Illustrator: Jon J. Muth

Summary: This is a story of a New York City family taking a day trip to Enchanted State Park to enjoy the lake. But it is so much more! Iris first introduces us to her family, a cast of caricatures that will have you giggling. Tons of food are prepared, bulging cases of necessities are packed, and a decision is made to bring El Exigente, the dog. Neighbors come along with their many necessities and vibrant personalities. A long line of cars streams out of the city bulging with folks ready to be enchanted. After some car trouble, all arrive and see a sign at the edge of the parking lot, “NO DOGS ALLOWED.” While they “figure out what to do,” they stake their claim along the edge of the parking lot and pull out the food, games, and sunbathing paraphernalia. The humans take turns entertaining El Exigente who dutifully sits in the parking lot. When there is nothing left to eat and the sun is going down, the throng piles back into their cars and heads home, knowing that even El Exigente had an enchanting time at Enchanted State Park.    

Hanna’s Comments: This is such a delightful book, and there is so much more here than the comedy and turmoil of a day trip. You’ll find a spirit of loving acceptance, even for those who are self-centered or peculiar. At the heart of this family is a joyous hospitality and resilience with a determination that all will have fun no matter the circumstances, even if there are NO DOGS ALLOWED. I kept thinking as I read this book, if only our faith communities were this accepting, hospitable, and resilient. If only everyone could be so lovingly attentive and accommodating. Perhaps you can lead your family of faith into such suppositions with the help of this fun picture book and some scripture that ties it all together.   

Original Publisher & Date: Atheneum Books, 2004

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 3 and up, Pre and up

Formats other than Book: None at present

Scripture Connections: Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have come to fulfill them. (Matthew 5:17); on these two commandments (Love the Lord, Your God… and the Golden Rule) depend all the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 22:34-40); Jesus goes to the bent over woman (Luke 13:10-17); Jesus addresses Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10); a boy shares his loaves and fishes (John 6:5); Jesus does not condemn the woman caught in adultery (John 8:3-11)

Idea(s) for Application:  Consider using this book to help children understand how Jesus respected the ancient Hebrew Laws, but he sometimes broke them and argued that what God intended for The Law was being ignored by the Pharisees. 

PBT Redux #15 Shooting at the Stars

Picture Book: Shooting at the Stars:                                                                   The Christmas Truce of 1914

Author & Illustrator: John Hendrix

Summary: A letter to his mother from Charlie, a fictional British WWI soldier, serves as the framework for this tale about one of many WWI Christmas Eve truces in 1914. 

In this case, the temporary cease fire begins with Christmas carols heard from the German trenches. 

Then small Christmas trees appear. Next a can of jam is thrown from the British trench. A British and a German officer meet in the middle of the battleground, shake hands, and signal their soldiers to come forward. 

Soldiers from both sides introduce themselves in “no man’s land.” Together they bury their dead. 

Then trading tokens to substitute for Christmas gifts begins. Photographs are taken. 

One is in the back of the book. 

After several hours, a furious British major arrives and orders them to separate and begin shooting. 

Charlie suspects they will aim high, shooting at the stars, at least for a while. 

Hanna's Comments: This is such an important story! It will intrigue your audience and inspire loads of comments. Insist that they connect this story to the Advent of today or your lesson won't be transformative. A glossary, bibliography, and index are in the back too. They explain that such truces didn't happen the other years of WWI. Thematically, this story and its supplemental material emphasize the contrast between the suffering soldiers stuck in the trenches who long for peace 

and the outside political and military forces that keep them there for 4 long years. It is a hard story to hear but an important one. Non-Christians should be comfortable using this book since Christian doctrine is not mentioned. 

Publisher & Date of Publication: Harry N. Abrams, 2014

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 8 and up, 3^rd and up

Formats other than Book: Tablet

Scripture Connections: When the ways of people please the Lord, he causes even their enemies to be at peace with them (Proverbs 16:7); blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God (Matthew 5:9); if possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all (Romans 12:18); let him seek peace and pursue it (1 Peter 3:11)

Idea(s) for Application: This would be a great book to read to an audience of elementary age and up during the week before Christmas. Emphasize the theme of peace and how it requires risk and trust. Consider today's battles, military and otherwise, to make this book particularly meaningful. Peace isn't easy still, but it's worth meaningful conversation, because hope for peace is what Advent is all about. 

PBT Redux Series #2

Here’s the second book I’m offering as a part of my PBT Redux Series in which I re-post (with a little editing) an earlier post about a particularly good picture book that was published in the last few years. The books in this series are treasures with so much potential for ministry! 

Picture Book: Beautiful Oops!

Author & Illustrator: Barney Saltzberg

Summary: Mistakes are celebrated in this interactive book full of folds, stains, holes, tears, tabs, drips, and even a paper wad. This picture book’s ingenious design has readers helping to transform the various mistakes into fun possibilities. The first pages declare that an “oops” (mistake) is just the beginning. Then we are encouraged to help the author find the potential in all sorts of oops, demonstrating that oops can be seen as wonderful opportunities.

Hanna’s Comments: Underneath the fun of this book are messages of grace, self-forgiveness, and hope. Although here the idea of transforming our mistakes is delivered with a clever and light tone, between the lines is encouragement to accept that our mistakes are inevitable and at times fun to alter. How we respond to our mistakes is what counts. Because this is a board book, you might want to demonstrate the story with some mistake-ridden artwork yourself. However, if you do this, be sure to give Barney Satzberg the credit he deserves. If your audience is able, allow them to make some mistakes and then transform them into something new. God’s grace and providence abound in this wonderful book.

Publisher & Date of Publication:  Workman, 2010

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 3 and up, Pre and up

Formats other than Book: Youtube.com has a video of the author demonstrating the art concepts underlying the book which is mentioned but not read. There are also amateur readings of the book on Youtube.com.

PBT Category: Post 2K

Scripture Connections and Idea(s) for Application: Grace is such a multifaceted and abstract concept. It’s hard for adults to comprehend, much less children. My husband wrote a summer arts camp curriculum for elementary children based on this book. He was able to connect 4 Bible Stories with 4 of this book’s categories of oops and then tell each story’s message of grace. Here they are: Joseph in the pit (hole), the Demoniac on the rocks (torn), the Prodigal Son with the pigs (stained), and Jesus’ tears of blood in the Garden (drip). Contact me if you are interested in hearing more about this curriculum. The kids loved it! 

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 354

Picture Book: Animal Teachers

Author: Janet Halfmann

Illustrator: Katy Hudson

Summary: This fun book celebrates and informs human children about the lessons several species of other animals must teach their young. It begins:

Who taught you how to do things? 

Your parents and others who care about you were your first teachers.

Who teaches animals? 

Let’s peek into some animal lessons and find out!  

Boxing lessons for Joey Kangaroo, building lessons for beaver kits, and shouting lessons for prairie dog pups follow as well as others. After each lesson is described, intriguing questions are asked to encourage the readers and listeners to talk about their own lessons, skills, and early teachers.

Hanna’s Comments: There is so much in this fun science book that I suggest you read only a few entries at a time and allow for personal conversation after each animal lesson explanation. Then offer comments that are built on your spiritual beliefs. You might talk about God’s loving intention for animals to be fed and comfortable. Try sharing stories about how you were taught early lessons, especially faith lessons. Additionally, explain in simple terms the concept of spiritual gifts of parents and teachers. You’ll find a couple of pages in the back with more facts about each of the animals featured in this picture book. These facts could be shared during those conversations as well.

Original Publisher & Date of Publication: Blue Apple, 2014

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

# of Pages: 36 

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: None at present 

PBT Category: Fresh off the Press, Non-fiction, Award Winner 

PBT Topics this Book connects with: abilities, adaptation/assimilation, animals, babies/children, belonging, bonds/connections, communication, community, creation, danger, dependence/interdependence, differences, diversity, education/learning/school, the environment/nature, growing up/growth, heritage, mentors/teachers, nurturing, parents/parental love, preparation, problem solving/problems, survival, wisdom

Scripture Connections: God said, “Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds…” (Genesis 1:24); who teaches us more than the beasts of the earth? (Job 35:11); the Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made (Psalm 145:9)

Idea(s) for Application:  Read this book to a group of young children who are learning about teachers, spiritual gifts, or about God’s glorious animals and their skills and attributes.

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 345

Picture Book: Those Shoes

Author: Maribeth Boelts

Illustrator: Nah Z. Jones 

Summary: Jeremy longs for “those shoes”, the ones featured on the big billboard, the ones many other boys are wearing. He especially yearns for them when one of his shoes falls apart at school and he is given a pair of kiddie shoes from the guidance counselor’s box. His classmates laugh at him, but not Antonio. When Jeremy and his grandmother go shoe shopping, they discover the price is too steep. They search at local thrift shops and find a pair. They are tight, but Jeremy is thrilled anyway and takes them home, hoping they will stretch. They don’t stretch, and he gets sores on his feet. He has to resort to wearing the kiddie shoes again. Meanwhile, Jeremy and Antonio become friends. Jeremy notices that Antonio has duct tape holding his shoes together. When Antonio visits Jeremy’s house, he sees “those shoes” and asks Jeremy why he doesn’t wear them. Jeremy shrugs. The next morning Jeremy tries on the too tight shoes one more time and then secretly leaves them on Antonio’s stoop. At school, Jeremy has mixed feelings when Antonio shows up with those shoes on until Antonio quietly thanks Jeremy.   

Hanna’s Comments: This story gets to the heart of issues that many children and teens struggle with, consumerism, brand consciousness, and desiring what peers have. Usually, the crux of these matters are coveting, idolatry, and gluttony, all very human and very common problems that are addressed directly in scripture. I believe it’s good to talk with children directly about these issues, but be honest, not preachy. Confess that these issues don’t go away in childhood. In fact, they often get bigger, more expensive, and more damaging. Share honestly with the children in your faith family about how you personally struggle with status items, coveting, or consumerism. Then talk about confession and repentance. Give them hope for an abundant life that doesn’t involve jealousy, obsession, or being manipulated by marketing.  

Original Publisher & Date of Publication: Candlewick Press, 2007

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 5 and up, K and up 

# of Pages: 40

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: Video

PBT Category: Post 2K

PBT Topics this Book connects with: acceptance, adaptations/assimilation, choices/decisions, clothes/shoes, conformity, consumerism/consumption/riches, coveting/envy/jealousy, friends/friendship, generosity/giving/offering/stewardship, God’s will, grandparents, gratitude/thanksgiving, humility, idolatry, possessions, poverty, pride, sin, wisdom  

Scripture Connections: You shall not covet anything that is your neighbor’s (Exodus 20:17); you ask and do not receive because you ask wrongly to spend it on your passions (James 4:3); little children, keep yourselves from idols (1 John 5:21)

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book to a group of children who are learning about the struggles of coveting, idolatry, and consumerism.  

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 342

Picture Book: The Whispering Town

Author: Jennifer Elvgren 

Illustrator: Fabio Santomauro

Summary: In their basement, Anett and her parents are hiding two Jews from the Nazis in 1943 Denmark. When Anett brings their breakfast down, she relies on their whispers in the dark to guide and comfort her. As she desires items for them from the town’s merchants, she whispers, “We have new friends. Then the merchants give a few items. Each time Anett ventures outside, she sees Nazi soldiers looking for hidden Jews. The Nazis threaten to arrest anyone who is hiding Jews. Because the Nazi presence is increasing, the Jews must leave at night with no local escort to the harbor where a boat will be waiting for their escape. How will they find their way? Anett remembers how the whispers guide her to the basement and suggests that the townspeople, along the desired route, stand at their doorways and use whispered voices to guide the Jews to the harbor. This plan works. “This way,” is repeatedly whispered and guides the Jews as they walk to the harbor.

Hanna’s Comments: The Author’s Note in the back of the book gives the historical context of this story and explains that it is based on true events in the small fishing village of Gilleleje, Denmark. I have considered featuring a book on Anne Frank this month because it is the 70^th anniversary of her death. However, I couldn’t find a picture book that balanced her heartbreaking story with her own statements of hope and faith in people. I encourage you to continue to look for that kind of book in your local library or simply tell Anne Frank’s story as a supplement and contrast to the book featured here. Anne Frank hid in an upper set of rooms in Amsterdam, Holland. Tweens and teens easily identify with Anne Frank’s story. There are reference books about her that will help you tell her story and show pictures. Also, there are many videos including the only known video of Anne Frank. She is looking out a window. Find it on Youtube.com. It is quite moving. Miep Gies, one of the protectors of Anne Frank and her family, has been interviewed many times. You'll find her story on Youtube as well. It is one of courage, humility, and sacrifice.   

Original Publisher & Date of Publication: Kar-Ben Publishing, 2014

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 5 and up, K and up

# of Pages: 32

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: Tablet, Audio CD 

PBT Category: Fresh off the Press, Non-fiction

PBT Topics this Book connects with: abuse/abuse of power, action, adaptation/assimilation, aliens/immigrants/refugees/strangers, anxiety/worry, body/body of Christ, bravery/courage, bullying/martyrs/persecution/oppression, caring/tending, challenges, commitment, communication, community, cooperation, cruelty, danger, darkness/evening/night, dependence, difficulties, encouragement, enemies, ethics, Europe, evil, exile/separation/walls, fear, goodness, helping, hiding/isolation, homelessness, hospitality, listening, neighbors, partners/teamwork, presence, prisons/prisoners, problems/problem solving, protecting/protection, rebellion, resisting evil, risking, safe place/sanctuary, secrets, sharing, unity   

Scripture Connections: I will hope continually and will praise you yet more and more (Psalm 71:14); abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good (Romans 12:9); welcome one another… for the glory of God (Romans 15:7); if one member suffers, all suffer together (1 Corinthians 12:26a); now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1)

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book and consider telling the story of Anne Frank to older elementary or youth who are learning about concepts of faith, hope, and reliance on others in difficult times. This book also easily connects with spiritual concepts such as discernment, particularly discernment through the guidance of others, and the power of community.   

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 339

Picture Book: The Knight and the Dragon 

Author & Illustrator: Tomie de Paola

Summary: What the title two characters lack in ferocity they make up for in determination. They are inexperienced in fighting so they each do some reading. The knight builds his armor and weapons while the dragon practices his tail swishing and mean faces. The knight rehearses his jousting while the dragon improves his fire breathing. Invitations are sent, and a time is set to fight. Their first confrontation ends with them missing each other completely. Their second meeting lands one in a tree and the other in a pond. Meanwhile, the castle librarian, who has been watching their failures, suggests an alternative endeavor for both. She gives the dragon a book for cooking outdoors and the knight an instruction manual on how to build a barbeque. Together they open a new eating venue, K & D Bar-B-Q. The story ends with them serving happy customers.

Hanna’s Comments: This twist on a medieval tale can encourage the children in your family of faith to talk about why human beings do what they do even when it feels unnatural or wrong. These two characters seem to be going against their natures. Fortunately, the librarian is intuitive and nurturing enough to see where their passions and skills might lead to productive results rather than destruction. Not only does this book offer commentary on violence, but it also speaks to humans questioning what is expected and assessing how they can best use their inclinations and gifts for the greater good.  

Original Publisher & Date of Publication: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 1980

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

# of Pages: 32 

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: None at present 

PBT Category: Pre 2K

PBT Topics this Book connects with: abilities, acceptance, action, adaptation/assimilation, aspirations/dreams, authenticity, beginnings/morning, call/calling/vocation, challenges, competition, conflict, conformity, danger, difficulties, disabilities/handicaps/limitations, disputes/fighting/opposition, encouragement, enemies, gifts/talents, kingdom of God/reign of God, labor/work, nurturing, pacifism/peace/peacemakers, power, prejudice, self-discovery, violence, war/war veterans, wisdom, witness

Scripture Connections:  Ask what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. (Micah 6:8); seek ye first the kingdom of God… (Matthew 6:33); do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind… so that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:2)

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book to a group of children or youth as a part of a lesson on discerning your talents and desires despite what the world seems to expect.   

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 328

Picture Book: No Dogs Allowed

Author: Sonia Manzano

Illustrator: Jon J. Muth

Summary: This is a story of a New York City family taking a day trip to Enchanted State Park to enjoy the lake. But it is so much more! Iris first introduces us to her family, a cast of caricatures that will have you giggling. Tons of food are prepared, bulging cases of necessities are packed, and a decision is made to bring El Exigente, the dog. Neighbors come along with their many necessities and vibrant personalities. A long line of cars streams out of the city bulging with folks ready to be enchanted. After the inevitable car trouble, they arrive and see a sign at the edge of the parking lot, “NO DOGS ALLOWED.” While they “figure out what to do,” they stake their claim along the edge of the parking lot and pull out the food, games, and sunbathing paraphernalia. El Exigente dutifully sits in the lot while the humans settle in for lake fun. They take turns occupying the dog who is not welcome. When there is nothing left to eat and the sun is going down, the throng piles back into their cars and heads home, knowing that even El Exigente had an enchanting time at Enchanted State Park.    

Hanna’s Comments: This is such a delightful book, and there is so much more here than the comedy and turmoil of a day trip. You’ll find a spirit of loving acceptance, even for those who are self-centered or peculiar. At the heart of this family is a joyous hospitality and resilience with a determination that all will have fun no matter the circumstances, even if there are NO DOGS ALLOWED. I kept thinking as I read this book, if only our faith communities were this accepting, hospitable, and resilient. If only everyone could be so lovingly attentive and accommodating. Perhaps you can lead your family of faith into such suppositions with the help of this fun picture book and some scripture that ties it all together.   

Original Publisher & Date of Publication: Atheneum Books, 2004

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 3 and up, Pre and up

# of Pages: 32

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: None at present

PBT Category: Post 2K

PBT Topics this Book connects with: abundance/bounty, acceptance, adaptation/assimilation, America, animals, beach/ocean/pond/river/sea/shore, belonging, bonds/connections, caring/tending, celebration/party, challenges, chaos/disorder, choices/decisions, community, conformity, diversity, exclusion/inclusion, family, feasting/food/hunger/nutrition, God’s nature, goodness, grace, individuality/uniqueness, journeys/migrations/pilgrimages/quests, joy, the Law/rules/10 commandments, outsiders, pets, play, pleasing God/the Shema, problems/problem solving, travel, unity 

Scripture Connections: Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have come to fulfill them. (Matthew 5:17); on these two commandments (Love the Lord, Your God… and the Golden Rule) depend all the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 22:34-40); Jesus goes to the bent over woman (Luke 13:10-17); Jesus addresses Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10); a boy shares his loaves and fishes (John 6:5); Jesus does not condemn the woman caught in adultery (John 8:3-11)

Idea(s) for Application:  Consider using this book to help children understand how Jesus respected the ancient Hebrew Laws, but he sometimes broke them and argued that what God intended for The Law was being ignored by the Pharisees.  

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 323

Picture Book: And Away We Go

Author & Illustrator: Migy 

Summary:  Mr. Fox receives the hot air balloon he ordered so that he can fly to the moon. Elephant wants to come and suggests they pick-up pizza before leaving. Mr. Fox says, “Sure you can.” Thus begins a series of requests from various animals to ride in the balloon’s small basket up to the moon. Riders are many and often suggest items they should bring for their trip. When asked if they can join the fun, Mr. Fox often replies, “The more the merrier.” Each time a guest gets in, Mr. Fox yells, “Away we go!” Giraffe wants to pick up some milkshakes. Squirrel wants a 4-piece band. A group of rabbits bring some games. The alarmingly tight arrangement of animals and items hysterically defies the odds of gravity, but all seem to be having a grand time oblivious to the fraying ropes. Then a little bird asks to join the fun. The bird is the proverbial straw that snapped the balloon’s ropes. Thanks to more gravity-defying finagling, all animals land on the ground intact. “Away it goes!” Mr. Fox exclaims as his balloon soars to the moon. He is resigned to go to the moon another time. “It’s much more fun to be here with my friends.”

Hanna’s Comments: Be sure to read this book in a way that invites your audience to yell, “And Away We Go!” each time with Mr. Fox. My summary above can’t do justice to the fun of this story and these hilarious illustrations. The children will love the pictures so be sure to have multiple books if you have a big group. Spend time discussing the spiritual practice of hospitality that Mr. Fox demonstrates so well and how different the trip might have been had he gone alone or limited his guests. Yes, he might have arrived on the moon like he planned, but there would not have been near as much fun! Talk about the importance of relationships versus results or efficiency. I recently heard efficiency described as an unhealthy obsession. This book speaks to the joy of the journey. Also, note how diverse the community of travelers is here. You might want your young audience to talk about trips they have been on or celebrations they have been to that have had this kind of hospitable spirit. Those are the best memories. Talk about why this is true. Tie in scripture stories that involve feasts, celebrations or journeys that invoke a spirit of love and hospitality.

Original Publisher & Date of Publication: Henry Holt & Co., 2014

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 2 and up, Toddler and up

# of Pages: 40

Available in Spanish?  Not at present

Formats other than Book: Tablet

PBT Category: Fresh off the Press

PBT Topics this Book connects with:  acceptance, adaptation/assimilation, adventure, celebration/party, chaos/disorder, communion/Eucharist, community, differences, diversity, feasting/food/hunger/nutrition, gladness/happiness, hospitality, journeys/migrations/pilgrimages/quests, joy, kingdom of God/reign of God, moon/space/stars/sun, openness, sharing, tolerance, travel

Scripture Connections: Scriptures about feasts, celebrations or journeys that involve hospitality such as the Passover, the Wedding at Canaan, the Prodigal Son, Paul’s travels, and the practice of Holy Communion in the early Christian church.  

Idea(s) for Application: Use this book to supplement a lesson for children on the spiritual practice of hospitality or feasting, celebrations or journeys in our Holy Scriptures.   

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 315

Dynamic Duo: Book 2

Picture Book: Ivan: The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla

Author: Katherine Applegate

Illustrator: G. Brian Karas

Summary: The first 7 pages of this picture book are about Ivan’s idyllic life with his gorilla family in Central Africa. Then a poacher takes Ivan and another baby gorilla and transports them inside a small crate to Tacoma, Washington where an owner of a shopping mall had placed an order for them “like a couple of pizzas.” They were named Burma and Ivan after a Name the Baby Gorillas Contest. Sadly, soon after their arrival Burma died, and Ivan was alone. For his first three years in America, Ivan lived in a human home and was cuddled and played with by humans.  Eventually he was placed in a cage in the mall where he grew into a silverback gorilla. He had a TV and a few toys, but mostly he watched the people through a window. Shoppers began to react negatively to Ivan’s lonely life, but it wasn’t until he had lived in his cage for 27 years that he was gently moved to Zoo Atlanta where scientists helped him adapt to a more jungle-like lifestyle. There are a few photographs of the gorillas in the back of the book along with some more facts and even a painting by Ivan.  

Hanna’s Comments: This second PBT Dynamic Duo offering about rescued animals is quite different than those offered yesterday. Because this story is beautifully animated and reads less like a documentary and more like a children’s story, the realities of Ivan’s life are not as harsh as my summary might suggest. Do consider the sensitivities of your young audiences though when choosing non-fiction stories or videos about animals that are mistreated. I could have featured many more picture books like these some of which involve cross-species relationships that fascinate scientists. Here are a few others:

Terra & Bella: The Elephant and Dog Who Became Best Friends

Suryia & Rosco: The True Story of an Unlikely Friendship

Kate & Pippin: An Unlikely Love Story

Knut: How One Little Polar Bear Captivated the World

Publisher & Date of Publication: Clarion Books, 2014

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

# of Pages: 40

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: Tablet, The back of this book explains that you can access a slideshow about Ivan at www.ZooAtlanta.org.

PBT Category: Non-fiction

PBT Topics this Book Connects with: abuse/abuse of power, adaptation/assimilation, Africa, America, animals, brokenness, cruelty, the environment/nature, exile/separation, fear, greed/selfishness, growing up/growth, loneliness, neglect, new home/relocation, pets, poaching/stealing/theft, rescue, respect, victims

Scripture Connections: Peaceable Kingdom (Isaiah 11:6); love is patient and kind (1 Corinthians 13:4); let all you do be done in love (1 Corinthians 16:14)

Idea(s) for Application: Use any of these picture books about animals when talking about God’s creative design of various species and how humans have been encouraged to be their caretakers. OR Use these books to speak about the various ways love can be demonstrated, even across species. 

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 311

Picture Book: Cat and Bunny

Author & Illustrator: Mary Lundquist

Summary: Born on the same day, Cat & Bunny have always been together, just the two of them. They have even made up a game together: The Made-Up Game. When another character, Quail, wants to play too, Bunny is welcoming, but Cat is not. Others join the game. As Bunny’s attention is on the new friends, Cat wanders away, sad and hoping Bunny will come to find her. Instead a kitten approaches and wants to play. Cat begins playing a new Made-Up Game with the kitten. Then Giraffe asks to play. Cat, no longer pouting, says, “Of course.” Then the earlier group of children ask to join the new Made-Up Game. Cat welcomes them all, especially her friend Bunny.

Hanna’s Comments: It’s not clear here if Cat & Bunny are twins, neighbors, best friends, or all of the above. Also, what’s with the costumes?! Are these human children who each have a different animal costume or is this an original world this talented first time picture book author has created? It’s a mystery that I especially like. This will not be a problem for young children who are used to dealing with unknowns. You don’t need to answer all of their questions. Here you have the theme of sharing attention which is a big issue for many young children. Also, one of my favorite spiritual disciplines is offered here in simple terms: hospitality. This book encourages little ones to consider that being open to new friendships and shared fun doesn’t have to be threatening. In fact, community sharing can even enrich your experiences. I also like that Cat’s strategy of wandering away and pouting doesn’t get her the attention she so desires. That’s the psychologist in me. At first Cat doesn’t get her way, but what she does get is a new set of friends that don’t deplete her rich relationship with Bunny, and she discovers the delights of shared joy in community.

Publisher & Date of Publication: Balzer & Bray, 2015

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

# of Pages: 32

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: None at present

PBT Category: Fresh off the Press

PBT Topics this Book Connects with: abundance/bounty, acceptance, adaptation/assimilation, belonging, change, choices/decisions, community, companionship, depression/despair/sadness/sorrow, exclusion/inclusion, friends/friendship, hiding/isolation, hospitality, integration, loneliness, openness, outsiders, perspective, play, segregation, sharing, shyness, unity

Scripture Connections: They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share (1 Timothy 6:18); do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers (Hebrews 13:2); do not neglect to do good and to share what you have (Hebrews 13:6); above all, keep loving one another earnestly … show hospitality to one another without grumbling (1 Peter 4:8-9)

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book to young children when wanting to encourage the sharing of attention, toys, games, and/or relationships. This book would also be an excellent tool for beginning to teach the concept of empathy.

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 265

Picture Book:  Alexander Calder

Author & Illustrator: Mike Venezia

Summary: The early life and art career of Alexander Calder is presented here with photographs as well as the author’s comical cartoons of key aspects of Calder’s life. Calder is an artist widely known for his 20^th century invention of mobiles and his large sculptures. Activities in his early years, in which Calder created his own toys from wire and found objects, are presented as precursors to his distinctive art and influential career.

Hanna’s Comments: This book is representative of Mike Venezia’s prolific work. It is part of his series: Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Artists. His other series include Getting to Know the U. S. Presidents, Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Composers, and Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Inventors & Scientists. Corresponding to the list of series above, Venezia’s subjects range from Abraham Lincoln, to the Beatles, to Marie Curie. At this time, this book is quite expensive to purchase so look in your local library. Not all books in this author’s series are so rare and expensive. Although I am a big fan of Calder’s art, I’m especially offering this book as a sample of Venenzia’s many resource books. His biographies could offer numerous possibilities for supplementing children’s programming in your faith community or as the basis for writing your own program. For instance, I could see this book as inspiration for a thematic unit about wind, a concept that is often in our Holy Scriptures.

Publisher & Date of Publication: Children’s Press, 1998

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 8 and up, 2^nd and up

# of Pages: 32

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: None at present

PBT Category: Rare but Worth the Search, Non-fiction

PBT Topics this Book Connects with: abilities, adaptation/assimilation, America, art, beginnings/morning, breath/breathing/wind, call/calling/vocation, creativity/imagination/ingenuity, gifts/talents, Holy Spirit/spirit, image of God, passion, play

Scripture Connections: We are made in Creator God’s image (Genesis 1:27); whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise think about these things (Philippians 4:8)

Idea(s) for Application: Use this book in a program on wind or how the Holy Spirit moves us. 

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 258

Terrific Trio: Book 1

Picture Book: Getting to Know Ruben Plotnik

Author: Roz Rosenbluth

Illustrator: Maurie J. Manning

Summary: According to David the narrator, Ruben Plotnik (upside down on the cover) is the coolest kid in class, very funny, and very smart. David is pleased that Ruben wants to come to his house, but then he remembers his unpredictable Grandma Rosie who lives with him. Sometimes she remembers his name, but sometimes she calls him “little boy” and asks him to waltz with her. David always complies, but he’s not sure how Ruben Plotnik will react. David’s real fear is that Ruben will witness something strange and then make fun of her to their classmates. Once at their home, Ruben’s silly behavior, including sitting in their sink, does catch Grandma’s eye, and she asks him to waltz. Ruben accepts her invitation without hesitation and seems to enjoy the dancing. Fortunately, there is no mention of David’s grandma at school. At the end of the book, Grandma Rosie asks for “the little boy from the sink.” David understands. You get the sense that David will invite Ruben to his house again for both he and his grandma to enjoy.  

Hanna’s Comments: This first book in a PBT Terrific Trio about responding to the changing abilities of elderly family members, is silly in tone, but it could prompt a very serious conversation about changes in your children's families because of aging or disease such as Alzheimer’s. Honor and care of the elderly, especially if they are our ancestors, is an important mandate in our Holy Scriptures. Talk to the children in your faith community about why this is important and how rewarding it can be to hold fast to cross-generational connections, especially their connections with their kin.  

Publisher & Date of Publication: Flashlight Press, 2005

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 5 and up, K and up

# of Pages: 32

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: Tablet

PBT Category: Post 2K

PBT Topics this Book Connects with: acceptance, adaptation/assimilation, aging, ancestors/patriarchs & matriarchs, authenticity, dance/dancing, dependence/interdependence, family, friends/friendship, God’s will, grandparents, presence, respect, tolerance

Scripture Connections: Honor your father and mother (Exodus 20:12); stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man (Leviticus 19:32); do not cast me off in the time of old age (Psalm 71:9); don’t rebuke an older man but encourage him (1 Timothy 5:1)

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book to children in your faith community when talking about the biblical mandate to honor and care for elders.