Tag: children’s books

“God Made the World” and “God Made Animals” by Michael Vander Klipp

~ Bob Hayton

Author: Michael A. Vander Klipp
Publisher: Kregel Kidzone
Format: Boardbook
Publication Date: 2008
Pages: 14 (each)
Age: 4 and under
ISBN: 9780825439117
and 9780825439148
Stars: 3 of 5

As a father of four girls (currently ages 6 – 23 months), I’m constantly keeping an eye out for good Christian kids’ books. Every toddler loves a boardbook, and the “God Made” series by Michael Vander Klipp, are excellent books for little hands.

The books are colorful, with a rainbow “handle” of sorts, that fits little fingers nicely. Each small page (and the book is small, measuring apx. 5 by 4 inches) has a beautiful picture and a word. “God Made Stones” with a picture of stones. “God Made Frogs” with a picture of frogs. The pictures are clear and sharp, and the colors on the books are bright.

The books have a simple God-ward message. There are other books with animals and natural objects in them. These books focus on the fact that God made the things we see. A little heart can begin to see God’s hand behind everything their eye discovers.

At the end of each book, a pertinent Bible verse is shared. Jer. 10:12 for the God Made the World book, and Job 12:7-9 for the God Made Animals book. The Scripture verses are taken from the New International Reader’s Version to be simple for young children. Two other books are available in the series: God Made Food and God Made My Body.

The books seem as durable as any boardbook, and they include a spiritual message. I recommend these books for little children particularly ages 18 months through 3 years.

Disclaimer: this book was provided by the publisher for review. The reviewer was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

These books are available for purchase at the following sites: Amazon.com (God Made the World / God Made Animals) or direct from Kregel (God Made the World / God Made Animals).

“Candle Prayers for Toddlers” by Juliet David

~ Bob Hayton ~ 3 Comments

Authors: Juliet David, illustrations by Helen Prole
Format: Hardcover
Page Count: 128
Publisher: Candle Books (distributed in the US by Kregel)
Publication Date: 2008
ISBN: 0825472016
Rating: 4 of 5 stars

There are many books for toddlers these days. Few are designed to teach them how to pray. Candle Prayers for Toddlers collects a wide assortment of prayers arranged by topic, and geared for tiny hearts. Topics include: Good Morning, Meal-times, Prayer time, Today, Me, Myself and I, All the People I love, Sorry, All things bright and beautiful, Extra-special days, Thank-you, Sweet Dreams, and While we Sleep.

With beautiful, eye catching illustrations, the simple message of this book comes through. Even a toddler, going about his or her daily life, can pray to God about everything.

Thanks for food and friends, for the day’s fun. Prayers for help and protection at day’s end. Prayers that rhyme, prayers that sing; and prayers borrowed from historical figures of ages past. This book has them all.

Some of the prayers may seem so simple they are trite. But the goal of the book is to introduce the concept of prayer to tiny minds and hearts. Whether your young one memorizes some of these prayers, or just hears them read so often they become part of the child, he or she is sure to benefit from this book. The diligent parent can use it to teach off the page, encouraging their toddler to see how prayer can be a part of each activity in life.

Aiming to direct the hearts of children to their Lord is a laudable goal. Juliet David and Helen Prole succeed in offering us a simple, fun, light-hearted book that can be a valuable tool in a Christian parent’s arsenal.

Disclaimer: this book was provided by the publisher for review. The reviewer was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

This book is available for purchase at the following sites: Amazon.com or direct from Kregel.