Double Children's Book Review

Today I want to tell you about two children's books that are perfect for a parent or grandparent to sit down and read with their children/grandchildren.

The first one is The Sacrament by John Bytheway.  This is a beautiful poem with wonderful illustrations about a little boy who is on vacation and has to go to his grandfather's church service.  He's bored and easily distracted until his grandfather gives him some good advice we can all ponder during the sacrament.  It was an easy verse, but had lots of things to ponder and talk about.  In the back there was an explanation of what each symbol of the sacrament meant (bread, water, white tablecloth, etc.) that could be used for a Family Home Evening lesson as well.  Beautifully done and a book that is thought-provoking for any age reader.

Here's the back copy:

For years, John has used a poem during fireside talks to help LDS families understand the importance of the sacrament. With full-color illustrations by Nathan Pinnock, The Sacrament will help children of all ages understand what they should be thinking about during this sacred ordinance. John shares the story of a boy and his grandfather and the memory the grandfather shares with his grandson regarding the lesson he learned about the sacrament when he was a young boy.

Ideal for children from three to twelve and a perfect baptism gift.

About the Author: 

John Bytheway served a mission to the Philippines and later graduated from Brigham Young University. A favorite speaker and teacher, John holds a master’s degree in religious education and is a part-time instructor at BYU. John is the author of many bestselling books and audio products. He and his wife, Kimberly, have six children.

The second book is called I Am Strong, I Am Smart by Fay Klingler.  This is a beautiful story about a grandma who helps her young granddaughter cope with bullying at school through a special puzzle. Then, when Grandma needs help recovering, her granddaughter has the opportunity to return the favor by helping her grandma see how much she is loved and needed by those around her.  Parallel stories with a sweet message that will touch your heart.

Here is the back copy:

Luisa May, known to her family and friends as Lu, loves to play games with her grandma. When she’s bullied at school, Grandma has a special puzzle for Lu to help her see how valuable she is—no matter what others say, or how much doubt she feels within herself. Soon after, Grandma has to go to the hospital, and Lu finds out Grandma needs help recovering. Then it’s Lu’s turn to help Grandma see how valuable she is—no matter how much doubt she feels within herself. It’s a beautiful parallel for young and old alike, as each age learns from the other.

Written and illustrated with loving hands, this delightful children’s story offers a heartfelt message that unites and bonds generations. From the award-winning pen of Fay A. Klingler, I Am Strong! I Am Smart! provides to women of all ages a reminder of the tremendous gift of “girl power.”

And click here to watch the book trailer.