I recently had the opportunity to read Christy Baldwin's children's book entitled Care for Creation. Care for Creation is a book that teaches children to care for God's wonderful creation and our home, the earth. The beautifully illustrated book is sure to capture the attention of young children.
Perhaps you're wondering about the religious bent on a book about being environmentally responsible. For every illustration there is a page of text with a message about how we can care for God's world. Below that text, you will find a scripture reference and a paraphrasing of the message contained in that reference. I liked how the author paired the scripture references with the text. I think it works nicely to instill in young children that God calls us to be good stewards of the earth.
While I think the book has a great message over all, I did feel that the further the book progressed the more it began to feel like it was pushing an agenda. By the time I was three quarters of the way through the book I simply felt like it had very liberal political leanings. As I read the book I couldn't help but think that Al Gore would be thrilled with it. Because of the politicized feelings I got from reading the book I had no desire to read it to my children. Just as I am protective of their faith formation, I'm also protective of how their minds are being formed with regards to politics.
About the Author: Writing has been a passion of Christy's since she was very young. As a child, she loved to write stories for her grandfather and poems just for fun. She lives in Mason, Ohio with her family and is active in church, Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts and volunteering with various organizations. Christy has a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Cedarville University and a master's degree in Special Education from the University of Scranton. She is a stay at home mom who enjoys spending time with her kids and being involved in their schools. Her previous children's titles include Nine Things Nathan Noticed at Night and Remembering Wilma.
I was provided with an e-version of this book by the publisher, Tribute Books, for the purpose of writing this review.
Karen - thank you for sharing CARE FOR CREATION with the readers of Karen's Adventures in Mommyland, and for participating in the book's blog tour.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that you enjoyed the illustrations and the accompanying passages from Scripture.
In terms of a political slant, I know the creators of the book did not set out with a set agenda. Aimed at a children's audience, the book is meant to educate children on how they can make a difference in caring for the Earth. The message is universal and meant to cut across all cultures and ideologies.
Being that there is a verse from Scripture on every page, I don't think it would be the first book a parent with a more liberal mindset would pick up. I'm sorry that as a Catholic mom you do not feel the inclination to share it with your children.
But I appreciate your honest response and for an objective look at the book.
Best wishes,
Nicole
Tribute Books