I wanted a title that represented the fact that, yes, there are religious themes, but not that would turn people off as they can just be “Nope!” to that theme, but they are really nice books, even if they aren’t your thing.

One does not just say you should read Lullaby for the King by Nikki Grimes and illustrated by Michelle Carlos to just anyone. You do, however, say, “This was a lovely story that if you have a need for a Christian book that is about the Christ child’s birth, and you do not want a fluffy book, a Santa/Christmas book or has only people in it, you should give this a chance.”  This story starts off and finishes on a poetic note. Things flow and are soft, but solid.

We follow all types of animals as they head off to gift the child in their own ways. Some are as elaborate as a golden incense holder, others are a song, one even gives the egg and chick that is growing inside her. The exuberant illustrations of popping and blooming color explode. Things can be a bit busy at times with the details and color mixed, but it works well for the final result. The lullaby will come at the end, with music for you to play. Overall it is a wonderful gift or for your own collection. Of course, the Christian element is the main theme, but I think anyone can appreciate the artistry of it all. (And though it is available, I read it via an online reader copy.)

And if you are looking for another religious story, Home Is Right Where You Are: Inspired by Psalm 23 written and illustrated by Ruth Chou Simons, is good. This time things are much more heavy on the mention and use of God and what He does. Simons wrote the story as a response to her children growing up and leaving. The poem/flow of things is done so it can be a bedtime story or any time story.

Things are a bit heavy handed at times, there is no question that she wants her children/the listener/reader to know that God is there and that home is where He is (as is the physical home with her, the mother). And it is obvious that she wants you to know that if you stumble on your way, God is there. This is not necessarily a bad thing, just can limit your audience. Then there are her illustrations. They are soft, bordering abstract but still realistic. Colorful, but without the pop of bold, dark colors. Things are dreamy and have an old fashioned tone to things. I read via a physical reader copy, but it’s not due until mid/late September 2024.