THANK YOU, GOD!
A Year of Blessings and Prayers for Little Ones
by Sophie Allsopp & illustrated by Sophie Allsopp
This chronological compendium of 24 short poems, Christian prayers, biblical verses and snippets from familiar, old-fashioned hymns is arranged with a seasonal approach, moving from early spring through the calendar year to the Christmas season. Interspersed throughout the volume in Jolly Postman–fashion are ten small envelopes, each containing an illustrated prayer card with a related Bible verse. The final envelope offers a Christmas card with a blank interior and an invitation to young readers to write an original thank-you prayer. The soft-focus illustrations have a pale prettiness, but the children in the spreads appear pale and washed-out, especially the thin, tow-headed boy who is one of the main characters used to illustrate the verses. One intriguing aspect of Allsopp’s illustration style is the inclusion of photographic elements used as subtle accents within the art: Real wheat stalks, leaves and shells add a welcome dash of spice. Children will enjoy the element of surprise in the cards hidden in the envelopes, but the ephemeral nature of the prayer cards makes this an unsuitable choice for libraries. (Picture book/religion. 4-7)