Book Review: "Thank You, God, for Mommy" by Amy Parker, Illustrated by Frank Endersby

Thank You, God, for Mommy
By Amy Parker
Illustrated by Frank Endersby

When I received this book in the mail, I couldn't keep it out of my angel's hands.  "What is it about?  Can you read it?  Oooo - look at the panda!"  The pictures of this book draw readers in to find out what it is about.  While the language is not complex and the message is simple - Thank you, God, for all that my Mommy is to me- it is a message with which little ones can relate. 



"Thank You, God, for Mommy" is written as a prayer from a baby panda to God. This little panda thanks God for all of the wonderful things that his mother does for him - for the very special ways that Mommy Panda shows her love. The book is published in hardback with cardboard pages, perfect for little hands. The book's illustrations are full of vibrant colors with soft, watercolor-like images which capture even the most discerning palette. While the book is primarily for younger children (ages 2 - 5) to enjoy with their mothers, you might also "catch" slightly older children  enjoying this sweet poem and its pictures. 

Here is what my angel said about this book:

"This is a story about my mommy. It tells how the mommy helps the baby do things. I like the blanket that the baby panda carries. I like the pictures and the butterfly."

Frankly speaking, while I enjoyed the pictures and the idea behind the book, I found the story and language simple.  It is a book that children will enjoy for its topic and relatability, not for its artistic language and plot.  In fact, I think that this book would be a nice one for older children to read to younger siblings.  It would be a great way to encourage siblings to share stories about things they've done with Mom and the traditions in their house.

Although perfect for Mothers' Day, the Easter Bunny won't want to miss out on this one either!  And, as summer approaches and we begin thinking about vacation Bible school, this book does provide a stepping stone for the topics covered in the popular "PandaMania" program.  A great gift for upcoming holidays and nice supplement to a preschool program for "PandaMania".

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”