Reviewed by Susan E. Richardson
When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner
Author Matthew Paul Turner lays a beautiful, Scriptural foundation for children in his new picture book, When God Made You. With rhythmic text reminiscent of the Dr. Seuss books, he emphasizes that God planned and created you, yes YOU. Your physical shape, your gifts, your imagination, everything comes from God to you, along with a unique place He designed for you in the world.
The best way to get a feel for the book is to allow the text to speak for itself.
“You, you, when God sees you,
God delights in what is and sees only what’s true.
That you—yes, YOU—in all of your glory,
bring color and rhythm and rhyme to God’s story.”
Parents will find that each page offers a natural place to affirm their child’s unique gifts or start discussions based on the various ideas. Though the book does not include Scripture, you can hear the echoes in the text and easily bring verses into the conversation as well.
A picture book isn’t complete without illustrations, and David Catrow supplies those with vim. Bold colors team with soft edges while whimsical style, and a touch of fantasy add visual delight.
If you need something special as a centerpiece for your preschooler’s Easter basket, When God Made You would be an excellent choice. The vivid illustrations work well with the season while the text conveys how deeply God loves each of us.
