January 15, 2018
Inspired by Psalm 118:24, this cheery picture book encourages young readers to seize the day.Parker (My Christmas Prayer, 2017) employs rhyme to encourage children to get up and get going for a full day expressly designed for them by a loving Creator. From daily hygiene to schoolwork, each activity is imbued with a sense of miraculous potential. Hernandez's colorful illustrations depict diverse, bright-eyed children exploring and playing together, at school and outdoors, in all seasons. The focus is on every child making the most of each magical day. Though the text has an overall light and celebratory tone, it does attempt to address more difficult emotions such as anger, sadness, and fear. Perseverance and empathy are also addressed, though in a superficial, breezy manner that makes this but a brief introduction to the concepts for young toddler and preschool audiences. Those seeking more in-depth exploration on these topics would do best to look elsewhere. Nevertheless, this book begs to be shared as a read-aloud with audiences that will embrace its faith-based message. A bilingual English/Spanish edition publishes simultaneously.Darling iteration on a common theme. (Picture book. 4-8)
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January 1, 2019
Inspired by Psalm 118:24 (included), the simple rhyming text encouraging children to make full use of their day--created for them by God--will be useful in faith-based groups or family settings. Colorful digital images show a diverse group of kids getting ready for the day, going to the park, acting in a play, enjoying school, and sharing "God's bright-shining light" with others who need it.
(Copyright 2019 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)