Doing Something New- A Prayer for Beginnings, written by Mitali Perkins and illustrated by Andres Landazabal, is a rhyming picture book for kids ages 4-8.

The story starts with a boy and girl catching a school bus in the morning. From there, the reader travels with the two siblings through the challenges they face during their school day. Most two-page spreads contain a Bible reference, but the verse location isn’t included. However, at the end of the book, if you read the author bio, you discover these quotes are tied to the Beatitudes found in Matthew 5.

The book contains a pattern, flipping between ancient images and everyday kids. This hook serves to connect Biblical events to modern-day ones. For example, the illustration shows Bible characters traveling on a donkey (those familiar with their Bible will recognize Josheph and Mary on their way to Bethlehem for Jesus’ birth) juxtaposed with the children running down a path with friends. The text reads: You left behind a home you knew. / Here I am, a bit like you. / God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

What I like: The story models ways children can be a good friend through inclusive play, offering help, standing up for others, and providing comfort. This social-emotional focus can serve as a springboard for caregivers to discuss how to handle big emotions. And most of the rhyming lines worked well. I also enjoyed the illustrations. They were bright, kid-friendly, and showed an ethnically diverse population.

What I wish: I wish the actual scripture verse reference had been included. Plus I thought some of the connections between ancient and modern were a little bit of a stretch. At times, the author used phrases that might need more explanation for the reader to understand. With that in mind, I believe the book is better suited for those familiar with their Bible stories than those who are new to the faith.

I hope this preview of the story piques your interest enough to check out Doing Something New on Amazon.

Lori Z. Scott

#backtoschool #christianchildrensbooks #beatitudes