Tuesday, April 15, 2014

PICTURE BOOK REVIEW: The Sacrament by John Bytheway


ABOUT THE BOOK

It's understandable that some children appear bored or distracted during sacrament meeting. Many young Latter-day Saints are probably unsure about the true meaning of the sacrament and why we attend. With this in mind, bestselling author John Bytheway has composed a delightful poem (inspired by a short poem by Walter H. Horne) to help Latter-day Saints young and old appreciate the ordinance of the sacrament. In particular, children will learn what they should be thinking about (and not be thinking about) during this sacred time as well as what the sacrament can do for all of us.

Beautifully illustrated by Nathan Pinnock, this thought-provoking story about a young boy and his grandpa is a gentle reminder about the importance of remembering the Lord Jesus Christ, especially during this special meeting meant for Him.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

John Bytheway is an instructor at the Brigham Young University Salt Lake Center. He served his mission in the Philippines and earned a master’s degree in Religious Education at BYU. He has published dozens of books and audio programs and lives in Salt Lake City with his wife, Kimberly, and their six children.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Nathan Pinnock studied at Utah State University, the University of Utah, and Atelier LeSueur in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration at Brigham Young University. Between years of school, Nate served a mission in Frankfurt, Germany. He illustrated books and magazines for fifteen years and now spreads his time between his illustration, sculpture, fine art, and teaching. He is a creator. His paintings and books can be found in galleries, businesses, and homes across America. Nate lives in Holladay with his wife, Alison, and kids.

REVIEW

A beautiful book that nicely illustrates the importance of taking the sacrament.  This ordinance is an important part of worship in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons).  The story reminds the reader that while it is easy to get distracted in church, it's important to pay attention to the reasons for being there.  The story revolves around a young boy who goes to church with his grandpa while on vacation and who struggles to stay awake and focused.  Then his grandpa gently teaches him about the reasons for the ordinance and why we need to direct our attention away from worldly cares and focus on Jesus Christ.  The author also takes the time to simply explain the symbolism inherent in the ordinance.  A great book for teaching children about a vitally important ordinance.

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