Tackling complex theological issues, this illuminating book for the most part
succeeds in introducing children to the concepts surrounding baptism. As
Wangerin (Probity Jones and the Fear Not Angel) explains, his approach is
structured on a passage from Romans 8: "The creation waits with eager longing
for the revealing of the children of God." Here, benevolently personified, the
sun, a cloud, rain, wind, seed and water take turns describing their
contributions to a child's baptism as they welcome the child into creation.
Their words exemplify concepts of resurrection and growth, although Wangerin
includes one somewhat discordant reference to the cleansing aspects of baptism:
"I am the water they washed you in/... Clean from the devil! Clean from sin."
Odd grammar ("I am the water went under the ground") and occasional cutesiness
mar what is otherwise graceful, stirring verse: "I rode the wind to the edge of
the skies/ And cried to the sun, `Sun, shine on me/ For the child below, so the
child can see/ A flaming raining-bow!'" Suz n (Butterfly Boy), in his friendly,
candy-colored illustrations, joins Wangerin in stressing baptism as a dramatic
entrance into the community of faith. It's a lot to take in, but Wangerin
provides several pages of excellent resources for family Bible study, exploring
the scriptural sources behind his story and making the theological concepts
both accessible and engaging. All ages. (Sept.) Copyright 1999 Cahners Business
Information.
Average Rating: 3 out of 5 stars(3 out of 5 stars)
3 of 3 Reviews Showing:
4 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Christine M. Irvin (Grove City), October 31, 2008
This is a book that celebrates the glory of being baptized. When we are baptized, and become “children of God,” all creation – sun, clouds, rain, and wind – join in the celebration of a “new life.” The lyrical text makes the connection between rain from the Heavens (the water “coming down”) and the baptismal font, citing both as God’s creations.
And I am the water that flows in a river,
The River of Life, forever and ever –
Yes! I am the water came down to your town,
To find you, child, and you I found –
The day you were baptized.
I am the water they washed you in,
Your head, your heart, your soul, your skin,
Clean of the devil! Clean from sin,
The day you were baptized.
The author cites his use of a Biblical text, from Romans 8, to explain his approach to baptism: “The creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God.” Other verses in this book echo this sentiment, showing the sun, the clouds, the rain and the wind, all rejoicing in the baptism of a new “child of God”.
The illustrations are a bit cartoonish but they are expressive and colorful and child-like, making them appropriate for a book of this nature.
What I Like: At the end of the book is a section called “The Story of Baptism.” The author explains why we need to be baptized and cites Biblical passages for text used in the story.
What I Dislike: The story is written in rhyme. Most of the passages flow smoothly, but in some cases the rhyme is a bit forced, making the text a bit jarring. For instance, the author tries to rhyme “down” with “underground.”
It’s a truly lovely book, but I think it was written more for the adult than the child, even though it is certainly a picture book. I’m afraid most children wouldn’t understand the symbolism in the poetry without a lot of explanation - - but, then again, children need a lot of explanation to understand the concept of baptism.
Christine M. Irvin – Christian Children’s Book Review
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Curtis Robbins (Aurora, CO), April 01, 2008
This is an extraordinary work that entrances our son and connects him to the special day that he entered into the community of Christ. It is sophisticated poetry that personifies the elements of God's creation, the natural made Holy in the sacrament of Baptism, with clear scriptural references and connection included at the end of the book. Walter Wangerin, Jr. is an incredible artist whose writing is masterfully and colorfully enhanced by the visual artistry of Gerardo Suzan. We plan to share this book with other friends to celebrate their children's baptism day.
0 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Lou Ann Ball (Tekonsha, Mi), April 12, 2005
I was extremely disappointed in this book and I have returned it to you. Although Mr. Wangerin does give scripture quotes and explanations at the back of the book they are not worked through the book. I don't want a book that I need to have explanations to work through the story.
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