I Will Rejoice

I Will Rejoice is a beautiful big picture book written by Karma Wilson celebrating Psalm 118:24 -- "This is the day that the LORD has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in it." The author quotes this verse repeatedly reinforcing the theme of rejoicing in all of God's daily gifts to us. Her text is told is rhyme. Readers follow a little girl as she rises in the morning, gets dressed and eats breakfast. She rejoices in the day with her friends as they play. Even in her naptime dreams she praises God for the day He has made. Her day of rejoicing continues when her daddy comes home from work and her family is all together. She gets ready for bed and "gives thanks for Jesus" in a goodnight prayer. The book closes with "And tomorrow again I'll rejoice and be glad."

Amy June Bates does a fabulous job as illustrator. Her full-page illustrations are colorful and sun-drenched. Sometimes sketchy, the drawings are filled with enchantment and warmth.

What I Like: The concept is wonderful. I am a big advocate of teaching our children Scripture at very young ages; this book is a wonderful tool toward that end by encouraging Scripture memorization. Through the repetition provided by the author, children can quote the foundational verse after just a few solid readings. And the illustrations are breath-taking! I love the color and natural light featured on each page. It is a perfectly happy book with a strong, positive message.

What I Dislike: Absolutely nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent!

Age Appeal: 4-8

Publisher Info: ZonderKidz, 2007; ISBN: 0310711177; Hardback; $14.99

Buy it Now at Amazon for $11.69

Special Info: This book features a whole Caucasian family - including mother and father actively involved in the life of their daughter. While the message is universal, the illustrations may not be welcomed by little boys or children from broken homes.