When I was a child, the only Christian books for children were mainly ones that retold Bible stories. If you haven’t checked out all of the new Christian picture and chapter books for kids, I would encourage you to take a look at your local Christian bookstore. Many of the books are comparable to secular books, but address character in the light of God’s will for your children.
Recently, I was given the opportunity to review God Gave Us Thankful Hearts by Lisa Bergren. A new picture book (It releases Aug. 23), this is a sweet tale of Little Pup and his unhappiness that winter is coming. Through a series of encounters during his day, Little Pup’s mom helps him realize that even though winter isn’t his favorite season, he will still have a lot of things for which to thank God.
My favorite part about the story is that it clearly teaches children how to reframe their thinking from negative, unhappy and complaining to having a thankful heart. Children’s books are sometimes a little too subtle, depending upon the adult reading the book to interpret the message clearly for the child. This book obviously wants the ultimate lesson and how to achieve it to be as clear as the examples it gives.
The illustrations are heart warming and soft in the Beatrix Potter sort of style. I think this is a relatively affordable child’s hardcover picture book that will probably be read more than once as your children are reminded the importance of a thankful heart. More importantly, it will teach them they can control their thoughts and turn from negative, selfish to grateful thinking.
Reading to children is so important to their healthy development. I think it’s great parents now have excellent Christian children’s books to read to their kids.
This book was given to me for free in exchange for my honest review. An affiliate link is included for your convenience.