The Person I Marry

The Person I Marry, subtitled Things I'll Think About Long Before Saying "I Do", was created by husband and wife team Gary and Jan Bower. Inspired by the lists of their twelve children, the rhyming text (written by Gary) highlights several admirable traits to seek in a spouse. These virtues include integrity, kindness, respect, faithfulness, and purity among others. Each attribute is founded on solid biblical teaching. My favorite part of the book illustrates this perfectly:
"Though it may sound a little strange,
through every season, every change,
this person must be someone who
will cherish me as Number Two.
Oh, I'll be deeply loved, of course.
But I can't be my partner's source.
When everything is said and done,
God must be our Number One."
Each two page spread features a beautiful oil painting (by Jan). These show all kinds of children in various heart-warming situations. The book closes by quoting Jeremiah 29:11
What I Like: My daughter is not quite five and already obsessed with getting married. This book helps me teach her to focus on the important details rather than the flowers and lace. The illustrations are gorgeous! The content is thorough. Also, in the back of the book, the authors included a space for readers to make their own list of what they want in a future spouse.
What I Dislike: It's a bit long for younger children.
Overall Rating: Excellent.
Age Appeal: The publisher says "all ages", but I would recommend 5 and above.
Publisher Info: Storybook Meadow Publishing, 2008; ISBN: 0970462174; $11.99
Buy it now from Amazon.com for $9.59!
Special Info: See more illustrations from inside this book and learn about other books by this husband-wife team at their website: www.BowerBooks.com.