Children's Books

Reading Program 2000

Education for Mission

FAITH THE COW

FaithQuest/Brethren Press, 1995
Susan Bame Hoover
Hardcover/#3047/$14.95

This book tells the story of Dan West and the Heifer Project. Concerned about hungry children worldwide, Mr. West gathers heifers, sheep, horses and chickens) to send to people in developing countries. Children learn that one person can make a difference. (Ages 4-8)

MY FREEDOM TRIP: A CHILD’S ESCAPE FROM NORTH KOREA

Boyds Mills Press, 1998
Frances and Ginger Park #3085/$15.95

This is the true story of the courage of a young girl from North Korea who takes a perilous journey to freedom in South Korea. Striking illustrations depict the trip and the child’s bravery. (Ages 4-8)

Nurturing for Community

CHICKEN SOUP FOR LITTLE SOULS: THE GOODNESS GORILLAS

Health Communications, Inc., 1997
Lisa McCourt
Hardcover/#3037/$14.95

Beautifully illustrated, this book is about "goodness gorillas" who practice spontaneous acts of kindness. When Todd, the troublemaker, enters, the children’s love converts him to a goodness gorilla, helping the world become a nicer place. (Ages 4-8)

Social Action

A MILLION VISIONS OF PEACE: WISDOM FROM THE FRIENDS OF THE OLD TURTLE

Pfeifer-Hamilton, 1996
Susan Gustafson, editor #3075/$9.95

With love, whimsy and sensitivity, children and youth write and draw their hopes for peace and justice. Alex pleads for "no more clucux clams" while Angie wishes "they would hurry up with the electric cars." This is a book adults can take to heart. It can be used as a worship resource.

Spiritual Growth

THE 11TH COMMANDMENT: WISDOM FROM OUR CHILDREN

Jewish Lights Publishing, 1996
Sandra Korinchak, editor
Hardcover/#3025/$16.95

Protestant, Catholic and Jewish children answer the question, "If there were an 11th commandment, what would it be?" "Love one another, no matter who." "Try not to get divorced." "Listen to God." Their wise and wonderful answers and illustrations will inspire children and adults.

GOD’S PAINTBRUSH

Jewish Lights Publishing, 1992
Sandy Eisenberg Sasso
Hardcover/#3056/$16.95

In this book, children wonder about God.Their wondering is answered with questions like: "Where would you look for God?" and "What color would you paint the world?" Watercolor illustrations are by Annette Compton.

WE ARE THE CHURCH

L. Cecile Adams #2810/$3.50

Related to the 1999-2000 mission study "Mission in the 21st Century," this book leads children to discern the meaning of mission through their actions and the mission work of others. Stories, puzzles, drawings and activities involve children in discovering what mission will be like in the 21st century and help them devise their own mission projects.