A starting point for children who are not already familiar with Jesus’ parables.
A small collection of Jesus’ parables introduces young readers to Jesus’ way of teaching.
The text begins with the parable of the good Samaritan. A brief interlude presents several of the Beatitudes before Hendrix tells the story of two builders, one who built on bedrock, the other on sand. Several brief one- or two-page parables follow this before the longer tales continue with the lost sheep and the prodigal son. In a note on his retelling, Hendrix says that he has paraphrased the Gospel readings for “audience clarity, artistic purpose, and to bring the reader more deeply into the story.” However, his paraphrasing, mainly in the shorter parables, may do the opposite as readers try to remember exactly how the story that seems so familiar really goes. For example, he writes, “Can a hilltop fortress ever be hidden? Should a lamp be tucked under a veil? No! There is no such thing as invisible light.” And when Jesus is asked about the most important commandment, Hendrix styles the question, “Teacher, what should I do to live an eternal life with God?” Bright colors and patterns draw readers’ attention. Hendrix notes that his illustrations are a mix of fantastical and historical; humans have dark hair and olive complexions and wear, for the most part, Middle Eastern–style robes. Jesus is an almost skeletally thin bearded man wearing sandals and a tattered white garment. His skin tone varies from light to medium-toned. (This book was reviewed digitally with 9.8-by-22-inch spreads viewed at 24.2% of actual size.)
A starting point for children who are not already familiar with Jesus’ parables. (author’s note, sources, about the art) (Picture book/religion. 6-12)Pub Date: Feb. 2, 2021
ISBN: 978-1-4197-3705-3
Page Count: 40
Publisher: Abrams
Review Posted Online: Nov. 26, 2020
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 15, 2020
BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW
Though the tone refrains (barely) from utter didacticism, the values-driven narrative just misses the goal.
An otherwise unremarkable sports biography hammers home the values of determination and hard work with an unapologetic Christian slant.
NHL forward Mike Fisher's professional and spiritual life reveals the physical and emotional battle scars he suffered on the ice. Each chapter addresses a separate season (even hockey aficionados may be shocked by the numerous times his playoff games resulted in defeat). Portrayed as a near-saint, this charity-supporting, gracious athlete received support from his religious mentors, though not with immunity from grief; the illness and then death of a beloved coach results in a cutting loss. Religious fervor is maintained in quotations and repeated references to Romans 12:12. Bubbly, fast-paced commentary hits on each score, while stats naturally blend within text. Words occasionally repeat in close proximity, disrupting the text's fluidity. Overt enthusiasm for the sport lends it a tone akin to a high-drama broadcast, though statements can veer into ludicrous territory: “Like previous years, the unknowns and distractions make life a lot like balancing on Jell-O in a blizzard at midnight.” Small black-and-white action photographs fail to evoke the rink's aggressive drama. A glossed-over review of the pro's recent marriage to singing sensation Carrie Underwood will disappoint both country-music fans and romantic hopefuls.
Though the tone refrains (barely) from utter didacticism, the values-driven narrative just misses the goal. (Biography. 9-12)Pub Date: Sept. 1, 2011
ISBN: 978-0-310-72540-4
Page Count: 128
Publisher: Zonderkidz
Review Posted Online: July 19, 2011
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 1, 2011
A useful if occasionally preachy introduction, this book would benefit from the inclusion of more specific details,...
To encourage tolerance, the photographer/authors want to help children understand similarities among Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam and Judaism.
The authors assume readers will be people of faith, not atheists or agnostics. After short descriptions of each religion, common themes, such as the Golden Rule, spiritual leaders, sacred texts, clothing, symbols, places of worship, worship acts (use of incense, candles, water, and prayer), charity and cherishing children are explored. The text can be very specific, mentioning branches of Judaism (Orthodox, Conservative, Reform and Reconstructionist) without explaining the differences. (Sunni and Shiite Muslims are not delineated.) Activities will help children, teachers and parents think about religion in a comparative manner, although no sources or further reading are provided, which is a glaring omission. The attractive photos are often cropped into circular or curvilinear shapes and presented on brightly colored pages, giving the book the look of a magazine. Identified by religion but not by country, the photos were taken in the United States and eight other nations, including Mexico, Turkey and Vietnam. Interestingly, Israel and India, seemingly obvious choices, are not included. Captions would have been helpful for some photos such as a picture of a Muslim boy in a distinctive white cape and jeweled hat, which remains unexplained in the text.
A useful if occasionally preachy introduction, this book would benefit from the inclusion of more specific details, including holidays and eating customs. (glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 8-11)Pub Date: March 1, 2012
ISBN: 978-1-55453-750-1
Page Count: 36
Publisher: Kids Can
Review Posted Online: Feb. 4, 2012
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 15, 2012
BOOK REVIEW
© Copyright 2024 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Follow
Popular in this Genre
We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!
It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!
Already have an account? Log in.
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Welcome Back!
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
bookshelf