Sunday, February 15, 2009

Butterfly Kisses


It’s difficult to find books for little girls that center around their relationship with their fathers. But, Butterfly Kisses, written by Bob and Brooke Carlisle and illustrated by Carolyn Ewing, is such a book. The book is basically a two-way conversation between father and daughter, where they share special moments together - like saying bedtime prayers and dancing across the floor - celebrating the unique bond between the two.

If the title sounds familiar, perhaps it’s because it reminds you of the contemporary song by the same title and by the same author. Bob Carlisle recorded the song Butterfly Kisses. This book is based on the song. The text of the book is written in rhyme (in narrative poem form), but other than talking about some of the things that are in the song, the book is quite different from the song itself. Although the book makes a good accompaniment to the song, the book text stands alone.

The illustrations are colorful and life-like and realistically illustrate the relationship between a father and his daughter.

What I Like: I like the idea of a book for fathers and daughters. Their relationship is a special one that is not well represented in children’s literature, particularly in the area of Christian children’s picture books.

What I Dislike: As mentioned, the text is written in rhyme. And, as you’ve probably heard me say before (if you’ve read many of my reviews), it’s very difficult to write in rhyme and do it well. For the most part, the text flows smoothly; however, there are a couple of places where the rhyme is a bit forced. Altogether, it’s very well done, though.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: Little Golden Books, 2001; ISBN: 0307988724; Hardcover, $2.99.



Special Info: This book is written for girls. I don’t think boys would enjoy it very much.


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