Ok, I’ve never reviewed a children’s book before on Canon Fodder. But, this one is special. And it’s not just because it was written by my wife, Melissa (though, I admit I’m biased!), but because it brings such a profound and mysterious joy to my heart as I read it.
As parents, we all have great hopes for our children. We dream of what they might learn and what they might become. And typically, for most parents, those dreams take the form of vocational aspirations. My child could be an airline pilot, a professional singer, a rocket scientist, a fashion designer, etc. And all those dreams are wonderful.
But, what I love about this book is that it funnels all those wonderful possibilities into the ultimate dream, that our children would love Jesus with all of their hearts. No matter what particular calling our children might enjoy, this one is ultimate.
Thus, the title: Wherever You Go, I Want You to Know. Melissa takes the child on a fun roller coaster ride of possible callings—with outstanding illustrations that draw you in and make you smile—but the ultimate thing she wants them to know is that Jesus is the thing most worthy of their affections and aspirations. The final line says it best:
I love you so much, I want you to know. . .
I’m cheering you on, wherever you go.
And, whatever you do, wherever you start,
I pray you love Jesus, with ALL of your heart.
Another things I love about this book is the way it fits with some of Melissa’s other books. It would be great to pair this book also with her 5 Things to Pray for Your Kids, as well as her Walking with God in the Season of Motherhood.
Here are some great endorsements for Wherever You Go:
“This will become an all-time favorite read-aloud! What every parent wants to say— and what every child wants to hear. There’s nothing you want your child to know more than what this charming book sings in lyrical, romping lines—lines that will tie your heart to your child’s and wrap you both up in the love of God and the supremest dream we all have to know. My daughter and I were so smitten with it that we read it twice right away!” Ann Voskamp, Author of New York Times bestsellers The Broken Way and One Thousand Gifts; mother of 7
“I wish I had this book when my kids were little! It is simple. No matter what our kids dream, we want them to love Jesus and walk with him all their lives. You’ll love reading this book as a family!” Jennie Allen, Bestselling author; Founder and Visionary of IF:Gathering
“Wherever You Go, I Want You to Know encourages readers both young and old to chase after King Jesus with all of their hearts. In a world that prioritizes earthly accomplishments and academic pedigrees, this message is exactly what I want my children hearing before their heads hit their pillows at night.” Hunter Beless, Founder, The Journeywomen Podcast; mother of three
“Like the best books for little kids, this one combines playful illustrations with a simple, powerful message. We will definitely be reading this book to our young children, letting them know of our biggest dream for them—that they know God’s love and follow Jesus all their days.” Kevin DeYoung, Senior Pastor at Christ Covenant Church, Matthews, North Carolina
And here’s a wonderful video of Melissa introducing her book:
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The book releases on August 10, 2020. You can get a copy here!