PBT Series: God Book #9

Most of the books I feature at PBT are secular, but there are many books here that I call “God Books.” These are sacred picture books that aren’t so easy to find in libraries or bookstores. These may be the most valuable treasures I offer for ministry. This PBT series is a collection of re-posts of those God books. Want to see them all? Simply find the Search Word list at the bottom of the web version and click on "God Book." This treasure is both beautiful and full of potential for conversation about intercessory prayer. Consider it a God Book as well as a Grab & Go book (another PBT series) for there are lots of easy possibilities here!

Picture Book: Beautiful Moon: A Child’s Prayer
Author: Tonya Bolden

Illustrator: Eric Valasquez
Summary: One evening in a noisy city, a young boy hurries out of bed because he’s forgotten to say his prayers. As he kneels and prays, he notices a beautiful moon shining in his window. Others in the city are experiencing the rays of the moon, but those people are in distress. Then the author weaves and directs an aspect of the boy’s prayer to each of the other parties. A woman tries to sleep on a park bench; the boy prays for those who are homeless. A businessman reads a news headline about war and is worried for his soldier daughter; the boy prays for war to end. Two adults stare at an empty cupboard; the boy prays for people to have food. This continues as the beautiful moon shines on them all.

Hanna’s Comments: I don’t usually offer what I call “nighttime” books since my primary purpose at PBT is to provide ideas for ministry which usually occurs in daylight hours. I had to make an exception for this book! Help even your youngest listeners understand that the moon is a symbol for God in this story. Then expand on that idea. Be sure to talk about the feelings each scenario evokes. Ask... How might God feel about these situations? What might God be doing in this city to alleviate some of this suffering? Also, talk about this boy’s prayer practices and how they are a comfort to him and hopefully a lifelong practice. Mention that he was not "in trouble" for forgetting to pray early in the story. Invite your children (or adults) to share their experiences with prayer practices. If you get silence, there's your opportunity to instruct on the power of silent prayer. Offer a simple prayer ritual and then build on this instruction in future experiences. Throughout share the importance of intercessory prayer (prayer for others) in your own spiritual journey.

Thought not a PBT God Book, there is another extraordinary book that shares much with the book above. Max and the Tag-Along Moon by Floyd Cooper is a secular book about a grandfather who lovingly reassures his grandson "that ol' moon will always shine for you... on and on." Again, the moon is a beautiful metaphor for God, who is always present. The grandson tests this idea and finds it to be true.

Publisher & Date of Publication: Abrams, 2014
Age & Grade Appropriateness: 4 and up, Pre and up
Formats other than Book: Tablet
Scripture Connections: Love the Lord, your God with all your heart… (Deuteronomy 6:5 and Mark 12:30); when the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears (Psalm 34:17); in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let you requests be known to God (Philippians 4:6)
Idea(s) for Application: Read this book as a nighttime devotional at a church  family retreat or a camp program for children. OR Use this book as a tool to instruct children in the importance and comforting spiritual practice of intercessory prayer. 

December Holiday Books 8 & 9

Today's PBT features are all about Christmas eve rituals. The first is a brand new book inspired by an old poem, the reading of which is a common Christmas Eve ritual. The second book, from a favorite author, involves a family’s ritual. On every Christmas eve, this generous family ventures into the dark woods. 

Picture Book: ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas

Author: Glenys Nellist

Illustrator: Elena Selivanova

Summary: In the tradition of Clement C. Moore’s poem ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, Glenys Nellist has written verses that capture the beauty and power of Jesus’ birth.  

Below is just a sample with a few of my favorite illustrations: 

'Twas the evening of Christmas, when all through the town, 

Every inn was so crowded, no room could be found.

Tired Mary and Joseph, who went door to door,

At last found a place on a small stable floor. 

The pigeons were nestled all snug in their beds, 

While visions of breadcrumbs danced 'round in their heads.

The cows closed their eyes, and the oxen laid down;

The doves cooed so gently; the lambs made no sound. 

And out in their fields taking care of their sheep, 
Some shepherds were just getting ready to sleep.
When all of a sudden, they had such a fright, 
As a whole choir of angels lit up the night. 

 And to that small stable came three splendid kings
With gifts for the baby - all beautiful things. 
They jumped from their camels and knelt at his feet 
With their frankincense, gold, and myrrh that smelled sweet. 

The stable was filled with a wonderful light
As stars above Bethlehem twinkled so bright.
And high in the heavens, God whispered, "My Son,
You'll bring hope to the world and love everyone." 

As Mary laid Jesus, asleep in the hay, 
She thought of all that had happened that day. 
The mice heard her whisper, as she tucked him in tight, 
"Merry Christmas, my son, and to all a good night."

Hanna’s Comments: If you love the secular Clement Moore poem as much as I do, you'll also love this sacred poem. Here you have the story that is truly the reason for Christmas. Why not read both poems to your family at home or your family of faith at church? They will love the connections and just might create a new Christmas Eve ritual.

Original Publisher & Date: Zonderkidz, 2017

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

Formats other than Book: Tablet

Scripture Connections: The Nativity stories are told in the gospels of Matthew and Luke.

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book at a Christmas eve worship service or at home before nestling all snug in your beds for a long winter's night.

Picture Book: Night Tree

Author: Eve Bunting   

Illustrator: Ted Rand

Summary: You’ll find yourself wishing you were in the car with this family and not quite sure what they are up to on a Christmas Eve. Wherever they are going, it's obviously a joy-filled family tradition. 

The story is told by the big brother, Luke, who's excited to finally arrive in the quiet woods with all their supplies. A lantern makes sense, but food and a blanket? Off they go! To get a Christmas tree? Not quite. 

Surprises make the journey more fun despite the cold dark. 

When they arrive at "our tree," Luke says it has been their tree "forever and ever." Like the children, it has grown. 

Other animals are watching. Luke says there are secrets all around them in the forest. 

This loving family prepares for the work of the evening; everyone wants to play a part. Luke explains that for weeks they've been preparing the popcorn strings and balls of seeds, millet, and honey. They put treats under the tree for animals who don't climb.

Their tree is decorated as a beautiful feast for the forest so they circle it with pride. 

When their own picnic feast is spread, they sit in silence, hoping for creaturely companions. The animals are too shy to come, but this family knows their friends will arrive later. After supper, favorite songs of the season are sung. 

 

The cold and the late hour have them heading to their car, one child worn out, the other child's gaze and thoughts linger.  

Later in bed, Luke is settled in, but his mind isn't on presents. Instead, he thinks of their tree in the woods, made more beautiful and festive with generosity. 

Luke imagines a gathering reminiscent of the peaceful kingdom foretold in the book of Isaiah, singing their own Christmas carols while they enjoy the bounty.

Hanna’s Comments: I wish I had known of this book when my children were young. It might have inspired us to bring Christmas feasts to the many wild animals near our home. Rituals such as these ground children and give them crucial aspects of their identity that serve them all their lives until they are ready to create their own rituals. My summary above doesn't capture Luke's love for the beauty and wildness of his family's chosen sanctuary. If your family loves the wild, this is a book that will enrich your love for God's creation and the beauty of the season. 

Original Publisher & Date: HMH, 1994

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

Formats other than Book: None at present

Scripture Connections: The Nativity stories are told in the gospels of Matthew and Luke.

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book during a children's Sunday school lesson about the faith aspects of rituals during Advent and throughout the year. Then ask your children to share about their own family rituals. 

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 338

Picture Book: Owl Babies

Author: Martin Waddell

Illustrator: Patrick Benson

Summary: Three baby owls wake up one night and are surprised that Mama Owl is gone. As the night continues and their fears grow, they huddle together to wait, and a pattern emerges in their thoughts and words because, “Owls think a lot”. Sarah, the largest and always the first to speak tries to be reassuring. Percy, the older brother, agrees with his sister. But baby owl Bill simply says, “I want my mommy!” Finally, when Mommy comes back, she reminds the three that she always returns. Sarah and Percy say they knew she was coming back. Bill ends the book with, “I love my Mommy.”  

Hanna’s Comments: I like this simple tale because it comically offers a very real problem for young children and considers their fears of abandonment tenderly and deliberately. At first the two older owls engage in encouragement, hope, and positive self-talk which are smart emotional approaches when afraid. Each of these represent faith in their Mommy. Then they huddle together which helps too, especially when you are imagining terrible possibilities. When their fears are expressed, their fears grow. Lastly, they close their eyes and wish their mother present. This is a sort of prayer. When Mama Owl arrives, there is much flapping and dancing in relief, a celebration. She offers reassurance. Sarah and Percy become a little self-defensive about their doubts. However, little Bill offers authentic and loving affirmation. Be sure to allow your audience to talk about how they respond to fear and what strategies are most reassuring for them. Tie in concepts of faith and prayer when you can. 

Original Publisher & Date of Publication: Candlewick Press, 1992

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

# of Pages: 32

Available in Spanish? Yes

Formats other than Book: Tablet, Audio Cassette, Video

PBT Category: Pre 2K 

PBT Topics this Book connects with:  affirmation, anxiety/worry, authenticity, babies/children, belonging, bonds/connections, bravery/courage, commitment, companionship, darkness/evening/night, dependence/interdependence, doubt, emotions/feelings, encouragement, family, fear, hope, love, mothers, parents/parental love, perspective, prayer, presence, reassurance, security, unity, waiting  

Scripture Connections: Be strong and courageous; do not be terrified (Joshua 1:9); oh most high, when I am afraid, I put my trust in you… (Psalm 56:2b-4); the Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. (Hebrews 13:6)

Idea(s) for Application: Read this picture book to a group of young children in a lesson on fear and how to rely on God through faithful, positive self-talk and prayer.   

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 274

Picture Book: Beautiful Moon: A Child’s Prayer                          

Author: Tonya Bolden

Illustrator: Eric Valasquez

Summary: One evening in a noisy city, a young boy hurries out of bed because he’s forgotten to say his prayers. As he kneels and prays, he notices a beautiful moon shining in his window. Others in the city are experiencing the rays of the moon, but those people are in distress. Then the author weaves and directs an aspect of the boy’s prayer to each of the other parties. A woman tries to sleep on a park bench; the boy prays for those who are homeless. A businessman reads a news headline about war and is worried for his soldier daughter; the boy prays for war to end. Two adults stare at an empty cupboard; the boy prays for people to have food. This continues as the beautiful moon shines on them all.

Hanna’s Comments: I don’t usually offer what I call “nighttime” books since my primary purpose at PBT is to provide ideas for ministry which usually occurs in daylight hours. I had to make an exception for this book! Help even your youngest listeners understand that the moon is a symbol for God in this story. Then expand on that idea. Talk about the feelings each scenario evokes. Ask... How might God feel about these situations? What might God be doing in this city to alleviate some of this suffering? Also, talk about this boy’s prayer practices and how they are a comfort to him and hopefully a lifelong practice. Mention that he was not "in trouble" early in the story for forgetting to pray. Invite your children (or adults) to share their experiences with prayer practices. If you get silence, there's your opportunity to instruct on the power of silent prayer. Offer a simple prayer ritual and then build on this instruction in future experiences. Throughout share the importance of intercessory prayer (prayer for others) in your own spiritual journey. 

Though not a PBT God Book, there is another extraordinary book that shares much with the book above. Max and the Tag-Along Moon by Floyd Cooper is a secular book about a grandfather who lovingly reassures his grandson "that ol' moon will always shine for you... on and on." Again, the moon is a beautiful metaphor for God who is always present. The grandson tests this idea and finds it to be true.

Publisher & Date of Publication: Abrams, 2014

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

# of Pages: 32

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: Tablet

PBT Category: God Book, Fresh off the Press

PBT Topics this Book Connects with: anxiety/worry, babies/children, beauty, bonds/connections, darkness/evening/night, difficulties, Earth/world, faith/faithfulness, feasting/food/hunger/nutrition, God’s care/providence, God’s presence, heaven/sky, holiness, homelessness, hope, humility, intercession, light/morning, moon/space/stars/sun, neighborhood, poverty, prayer, reverence, righteousness, worship

Scripture Connections: Love the Lord, your God with all your heart… (Deuteronomy 6:5 and Mark 12:30); when the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears (Psalm 34:17); in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let you requests be known to God (Philippians 4:6)

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book as a nighttime devotional at a church family retreat or a camp program for children. OR Use this book as a tool to instruct children in the importance and comforting spiritual practice of intercessory prayer. 

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 239

Picture Book: Winter Moon Song

Author: Martha Brooks

Illustrator: Leticia Ruifernandez

Summary: An author’s note explains that this story is based on a Lakota elder’s version of a Moon Rabbit creation myth. Many cultures have a comparable myth. Here a young rabbit asks for the story that explains the rabbit image on the moon. He’s been practicing for the choir concert featuring the Winter Moon Song. His mother tells him of the Great Mother Creator Rabbit who came down to Earth. Cold and hungry, she built a fire and placed a stewpot of snow on top. Another rabbit tried to sacrifice himself for her, but she flung him to the moon instead. Later at the concert, rabbit is disappointed that the performance didn’t seem magical. As they travel home, the young rabbit is moved by the moon and begins singing the song with encouragement from the elder rabbit. His peers join in and together their collective song, in praise to the Great Mother Creator Rabbit, reminds them that they are part of one great rabbit family.    

Hanna’s Comments: One of the great human joys this time of year is singing, whether at a choir concert or in the car while stuck in traffic. What is it about singing that feeds our souls, no matter our culture or religion? I believe it has to do with a call to inner joy, human connection, and true worship. This book celebrates the longing in all of us, whether we can carry a tune or not, to beautifully sing our praise to the Holy and Mysterious One. The metaphorical context in this book may be child-like, but the message I read is very mature. Spontaneous, exultant singing gives pleasure and connects us to God and to one another. So make a joyful noise!

Publisher & Date of Publication: Groundwood Books, 2014

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

# of Pages: 40

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: adoration, awe, bonds/connections, choir/music/singing/songs, community, darkness/evening/night, Earth/world, gratitude/thanksgiving, heaven/sky, legends/myths, moon/space/stars/sun, mothers, mystery, response to God, reverence, snow, unity, wonder, worship

Scripture Connections: Oh come let us sing to the Lord (Psalm 95:1); make a joyful noise to the Lord (Psalm 98:4 & 100:1);

Idea(s) for Application: Too often children in faith communities are left to just figure out what worship is all about. Instead, consider it an honor to help your children understand that worship is a gift from God, one that can feed them the rest of their lives. This picture book offers a meaningful fable to help children understand the beauty and privilege of this gift of worship.

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 231

Picture Book: Stars

Author: Mary Lyn Ray

Illustrator: Marla Frazee

Summary: This picture book is a delightful exploration of stars. Not only does it encourage star-gazing, but you can also draw a star on shiny paper and put it in your pocket because you need to know it’s there, especially on those days when you don’t feel shiny. Stars can be given to friends, added to sticks to make wands, and used for wish-making. Find them in all sorts of places besides the night sky, like a strawberry or pumpkin patch or on a button or calendar. The best thing about stars is that even if you can’t see them, they are still there, in the sky, every night and even every day. 

Hanna’s Comments: One of the common themes here at PBT is encouraging children (and their families) to settle into God’s gift of nature. This book encourages that kind of creative contemplation of God’s natural world. Stars offer light, beauty, and symbolic success. There is often religious history attached to them. The act of star-gazing is a perfect kind of simple joy that can be enjoyed alone with wordless praise or in community while loving each other through the experience. I encourage you and your family of faith to do some stargazing soon.

Publisher & Date of Publication: Beach Lane Books, 2011

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

# of Pages: 40

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: Tablet

PBT Category: Post 2K

PBT Topics this Book Connects with: abundance/bounty, art, attentiveness/observation/seeing, awe, beauty, blessings, comfort, contemplation, creation, creativity/imagination/ingenuity, darkness/evening/night, emotions/feelings, encouragement, the environment/nature, God’s presence, heaven/sky, humanity, moon/space/stars/sun, mystery, prayer, reassurance, reverence, treasure, wishes, wonder, worship

Scripture Connections: And God said,  “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night (Genesis 1:14); when I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place (Psalm 8:3); the heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork (Psalm 19:1); wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, ”Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star (Matthew 2:2)

Idea(s) for Application: Use this picture book for an opportunity to teach and model contemplative prayer. Read this book to a multi-age group within a family of faith and then go outside into the dark to do some silent stargazing and contemplating of God’s wondrous heavenly creation. 

A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 50

Picture Book: The Very Lonely Firefly

Author & Illustrator: Eric Carle

Summary: One evening a newly born firefly is flashing its light in search of other lights that might become friends. Each time he approaches lights, he is disappointed to learn that the light comes not from another firefly but from sources such as a flame from a candle, animals’ eyes, and even fireworks across the sky. Finally the firefly finds a beautiful community of fireflies and is not lonely anymore.

Hanna’s Comments: If you get your hands on a new version of this book, you and your audience will be pleased to experience the actual lights of the firefly community at the end of the book. I recommend cueing an adult to turn off the room’s lights before turning the last page. The power of community and perhaps the firefly’s relief will be revealed. 

Publisher & Date of Publication: Scholastic, 1995 

Age and Grade Appropriateness: 1 and up, Toddler and up 

# of Pages: 14 

Available in Spanish? Not at present 

Formats other than Book: amateur videos on Youtube

PBT Category: Pre 2K

PBT Topics this Book Connects with: attentiveness/observation/seeing, awe, beauty, belonging, birth/birthday, bonds/connections/connectedness, community, darkness/evening/night, exploration, found, friends/friendship, journeys/pilgrimages/migration/quests, light/morning, loneliness, searching

Scripture Connections: Let your light shine before others (Matthew 5:14-16), Pentecost (Acts 2:1-47) 

Idea(s) for Application: Consider this book when planning a lesson for children on Pentacost.