Customer Reviews

Today is the Birthday of the World

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"Today is the birthday of the world. Today all of God's creatures pass before God..." Thus begins this picture book in which God asks a series of creatures if they have been the best that they could be. In each case God points out a helpful skill each creature possesses which makes the world a better place ("my dear little elephant, did you move the downed tree, happy that I'd chosen you to keep the road clear? This year...were you the best little elephant that you could be?"). Finally, God asks a child the same question, and upon hearing that all of his creatures have been the best they could be, God is happy and declares that their goodness is what makes the world a better place. Although clearly non-denominational, the reference to self-reflection on the occasion of the birthday of the world ties in with the themes of the Jewish High Holy Days. Still, the simple repetitive text teeters toward the didactic, and is redeemed only by interest generated in discovering what special contribution each creature makes to the world. What makes this book noteworthy are the charming illustrations painted in oil with the artist's characteristic crackle finish. Simple shapes define a landscape of gently rolling hills, bulbous trees and deep blue seas. Featured animals have a whimsical quality enhanced by their tiny eyes and exaggerated proportions. A rich warm palette of gold, orange, green and blue brings a calm spiritual feel to the whole while celebrating the good things that shared effort brings to all. Finally, a personified planet Earth plays host to God's creatures while blowing out the candles on a tall pink cake. Given the book's visual charm, it is a bit unfortunate that the message feels so weighty. This is a perfect world in which creatures large and small, animal and human, are asked not to atone, but to be good all the time, and in this regard the book itself might have just missed the mark. Ages 3-6. Teri Markson

This is a very thoughtful book that teaches kids the importance of doing their best and the wonderful things that animals and children can do. The book starts with the announcement that today is the birthday of the world and each creature is asked whether (s)he was the best that the creature could be. The beaver is asked if (s)he built a strong dam, the fish is asked if (s)he glowed while swimming, and the child is asked about sharing, among other things. The pictures in this book are gorgeous and fit perfectly with the story.

Love this book. It's delightful to read and communicates a wonderful message for kids and adults alike: every living thing has a purpose and reason for being - when every animal/person is the best he/she can be then the world is the best place it can be. More importantly, my 2.5 year old love its.

A touching, thoughtful read-aloud book for children of all ages. It's inspiring, enchanting, and visually beautiful. A perfect gift for a young child.

This is a very sweet and thoughtful story with a wise teaching which is beneficial for both the reader and the one read to. How wonderful of is to be reminded that all we have to do is what comes naturally for us.As an artist myself I find the book very beautiful to look at. I look forward to reading this book over and over again to each of my grandchildren.