Morning Has Broken [Hardcover]

Eleanor Farjeon (Author), Tim Ladwig (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1996 | Age Level: 4 and up

British writer Eleanor Farjeon begins with a childrens' hymn based on a Psalm and uses it to depict a boy and his grandfather coming together to enjoy the day. Together, words and pictures combine to celebrate what is perhaps the most obvious evidence of God on earth--the incredible beauty of nature.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Kindergarten-Grade 3-Farjeon's beautiful poem was written in praise of the Creator, based on Psalm 118, Verse 24, which reads "This is the day that the Lord hath made." It actually is a hymn (the music is appended) that was first published in 1931 and has also been recorded as a popular song. Now it appears as a picture book celebrating the beauty of nature, a close intergenerational relationship, and the interconnectedness of all life. The illustrations, in warm colors suffused with morning light, depict the universal experience evoked by Farjeon's words as a boy and his grandfather share a day in the park. The text conveys an important and uplifting message but will probably need some adult interpretation. In spite of one rain scene that seems inserted somewhat gratuitously into an otherwise sunny day, leaving the boy quite dry afterwards, this is a harmonious marriage of text and illustrations that can speak to children and adults on many levels.
Sue Norris, Rye Free Reading Room, NY
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Ages 4^-8. Most baby boomers are familiar with this charming hymn in the version recorded by pop singer Cat Stevens, but it was originally published in 1931. Farjeon's lyrics, based on Psalm 118:24, which proclaims "this is the day that the Lord hath made; we shall rejoice and be glad in it," form the sole text of this picture book. The bold and richly colored illustrations show a grandfather and grandson experiencing the joy and newness of a bright morning as they rise and leave their separate homes to make their way to a rendezvous in the park. The adaptation is mostly successful, though the words seem better suited to singing than to reading, and some of the archaic language will not be understood by children. Still, the rich details in the paintings add interest, and the bond between the pair is well portrayed. A simple piano arrangement of the song is also included on the final page. Shelley Townsend-Hudson

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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 4 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company (September 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0802851274
• ISBN-13: 978-0802851277
• Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 9.3 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,215,181 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Music to Live By, December 4, 1998

By 

[e-mail] (Lake County, Il) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Morning Has Broken (Hardcover)

This book is an inspiration for children and adults alike. The deep Christian message of this beautifully illustrated book will stir the innermost spirit of those willing to consider it's message. My two year old daughter loves to sing along with the ancient yet familiar gaelic melody popularized by Cat Stevens in the 1970's. Revisit a familiar melody and reconsider the profound meaning of the text while you delight you children with this wonderful book. A real keepsake for those fortunate enough to have found it!

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Stunning pictures, February 25, 2006

By 

Rebekah Lynn "rebekahthelynn" (Jackson, MS) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Morning Has Broken (Paperback)

What a beautiful book! This book has great illustrations to go along with the song "Morning has Broken" My little one likes to find the bird in every picture. Sometimes I'll just read the words and sometimes I'll sing the song. Either way, she enjoys hearing it and taking in the vivid pictures. I actually picked up this book before I had children because I fell in love with the pictures. While your child may not understand the depth of the words, the illustations will delight them.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Morning Has Broken, November 7, 2010

By 

Sara - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Morning Has Broken (Paperback)

This is a beautiful book. The artistry fits the hymn written so long ago. It is befitting of framing!