From Publishers Weekly
Books for children that deal with spirituality are often a dicey proposition. Here Sasso, the second woman to be ordained as a rabbi, undertakes an ambitious project to help readers define for themselves the nature of God and their own connection to God. Using a variety of images--some from the natural world, some from everyday life, all of them well within a child's frame of reference--the author presents a series of simple scenarios (a friend moving away; the ticklish quality of fizz on an ice cream soda) and then poses related questions ("How can you be God's friend?" "What do you think would make God cry or laugh?"). Commendably, Sasso doesn't presume to answer the questions but instead allows readers to ponder and formulate their own answers. However, the (somewhat lengthy) text presents an anthropomorphic view of God that may not fit in with some readers' beliefs. Compton's watercolors, though vigorous and multicultural, are somewhat amateurish. Overall, some will find this well-meaning book and its joyous spirit helpful, while others might consider it inappropriate. Ages 4-9.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 3-- A first-person narration supplies observations about God and personal feelings about life in one- or two-page vignettes; questions appear in italics, asking readers how they feel about these observations, and about their experiences with God. Soft, detailed watercolor pictures realistically portray the situation described, mirroring the concept of God's paintbrush. They show people of various ethnic backgrounds and ages in a variety of situations, from a best friend moving away to the wind blowing through one's hair. Many of the pictures appear as double-page spreads, integrating two different experiences. The ideas and emotions presented are not organized in any apparent way, but are more stream-of-consciousness. The book is overwhelming in the sheer number of situations described, feelings explored, and questions posed. It is hard to imagine reading it in its entirety to a child or to a group in one sitting, though perhaps it would be useful in religious classes. The queries are interesting, and in some cases, unusual; the concepts relate to God more as a spiritual being than a religious one, and attempt to personalize children's ideas of Him. --Susan Kaminow, Arlington County Public Library, VA
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
