My First Prayers for Christmas by Maite Roche
I got this book for Lucy for Christmas. We already have the Maite Roche My First Pictures of Christmas board book and frankly don’t need more board books, but Maite Roche’s books are so sweet and Lucy needed a little something else. It’s hard to buy books for toddler #5.
Nevertheless, I am very glad I got this book. Not only is it very sweet, the prayers do not feel dumbed down or condescending to children. Rather, they capture the wonder and joy of the season.
“Jesus, little baby, lying in the manger, close to Mary and Joseph, you look at us and you love us. With the shepherds filled with wonder on Christmas Eve, Jesus, I look at you and I love you. Amen.”
Lovely little meditations on the mysteries of Christmas, written so as to be accessible to young children but not only to them. They are also satisfying to the parent reader.
“Thank you, God. Thank you, very good Father, for Jesus, your beloved Son. With the angels, I sing your wonders: “Glory to God int he highest and peace on earth to men of good will.”Glory to God! Glory to God! Amen.”
Also, each prayer begins with the sign of the cross.
The pictures are simple and lovely. This is a well designed little book, just perfect. The kind of book I look forward to reading. Truly. If you still need a little something for your little one, I think you can order now and still get it by Christmas. Definitely by Epiphany.
We gave that book Katharine (16mo) for St. Nick’s day! I love reading about your book recommendations. Thanks for continuing to write about good quality children’s literature. Merry Christmas!
Ugh…”We gave that book to Katharine…” sorry, it has been a long day. 🙂