God Gave Us Two

The sequel to God Gave Us You is God Gave Us Two. Author Lisa Tawn Bergren has a number of books in this series featuring the same adorable polar bear characters. Each book is illustrated by Laura J. Bryant. The pictures are soft and sweet, portraying a tender family in mostly pastel colors. The scenes are playful, a joy to the targeted age group.

This story follows Little Cub as their family is about to grow: her mother is expecting a baby! Little Cub asks her parents all sorts of questions about the coming addition. "Why do you need a new baby?" "If we don't like the new baby, can we send it back?" "If the new baby cries too much, can I move next door?" "Will the new baby look like me?" "Will you forget about me?" These and many other questions are answered with love. "God gave us you. Now he's given us two." Mama's tummy continues to grow and grow until the big day arrives. Little Cub spends it with Gramma and Grampa having all sorts of fun until Papa comes to get her. Everyone is surprised with the news: she has a new little brother and a new little sister. "God gave us three!"

What I Like: Kids always have questions when Mom is about to have a baby. They're family is changing. This book does a wonderful job assuring older kids and putting their doubts and fears to rest. It affirms their uniqueness and solid position in the family. I love how the focus remains on God. Throughout the text Little Cub's parents point to God as a Giver of gifts and "a creative Creator."

What I Dislike: It has a very specific audience -- a little girl about to become a big sister to twins. The end was definitely a surprise. I found it odd that a family of naked polar bears was going to the hospital to have a baby. It seemed an unnecessary detail. Some of the text was random, requiring a second read to understand. Also, the illustrations were a bit "country-cutesy" for my taste.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: 4-8

Publisher Info: Waterbrook Press, 2001; ISBN: 1578565073; Hardback; $9.99

Buy it Now at Amazon for $9.99

Additional Info: Please take note of the specific audience. The main character is a little girl about to become a big sister to twins, a boy and a girl. Also, this book may not be appropriate for families who choose a home birth. The reference of a hospital may scare or confuse kids who understand childbirth happens in a familiar place.