I had intended to post this last week, the day after Thanksgiving, because of the gratefulness theme. But last week completely got away from me, so here we go.
Author: "reimagined by" Katherine Paterson
Illustrator: Pamela Dalton
Publisher: Handprint Books, 2011
Age Range: 4-6 years
Theme/Topics: Gratitude, Prayer, Nature
First Page/Spread: "We come to sing a song of praise to you, O God, the Lord of Heaven and Earth, who by your power and out of your love have created all things and called them good."
Synopsis: In Brother Sun, Sister Moon, award-winning author Katherine Paterson re-imagines a hymn of praise originally written by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1224. Illuminated with the exquisite illustrations of cut-paper artist Pamela Dalton, this picture book offers a stunningly beautiful tribute to nature.
Resources: The original prayer/canticle is included in the back of the book to look at. There are some activities related to St. Francis of Assisi at this site. Most nature-related activities would also work, including looking through the gorgeous paper-cut illustrations for specific plants or animals.
Why I LOVE it: The language is absolutely gorgeous, as are the pictures. The prayer itself is just lovely and peaceful.And the whole idea of praising the Lord for nature warmed me - especially at this time of year. It is a lovely story to share about thankfulness (yes - last Friday would have been better - right?)
Hope you'll give this book a look - and check out the OTHER perfect picture books for today at Susanna's blog - and Susanna's ever-growing list of wonderful picture books.
My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer. Psalm 45:1
What a beautiful choice today. That cover really engages you so I imagine beautiful illustratioons. I also love the focus on nature!
ReplyDeleteALL the illustrations are beautiful like that cover - truly. I loved just about everything about this one - thanks for stopping by, Patricia!
DeleteI remember seeing a movie years ago based on this story. What a gentle, peaceful book to reflect on during the Christmas season!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Jarm. I think I might have seen something about the movie when I was googling the book to get the cover pic. And who doesn't need peace this time of year. :) I appreciate you stopping by!
DeleteI'm very much looking forward to reading this beautiful book - thanks for posting!
ReplyDeleteIt really is beautiful, Julie - thanks for stopping by. I'm sure you will enjoy it!
DeleteOo, it is lovely to see a new version of this. Thanks, Joanna.
ReplyDeleteYou're very welcome - thanks for stopping by!
DeleteI really love the illustrations in this book! Quite unique! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYou're very welcome - I love them too! Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteI've always loved this story. The cover looks gorgeous. Thanks for reminding me about this story.
ReplyDeleteYou're quite welcome, Sue - I had never heard of it :) Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteLovely book and at just the right time of year too. Beautiful choice, thanks.
ReplyDeleteIt is lovely :) Thanks for stopping by, Diane!
DeleteLOVE the sound of this book and have read a middle grade novel by that name which was so good. Glad this came out as a picture book. :)
ReplyDeleteOH - I may have to pick up that middle grade and give it a look. Thanks for stopping by!
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