Seeing Jesus in His Own Words - Hardcover

Gr. 4-8, younger for reading aloud. Mayer, who has written many books about Christianity for young people, has an interesting, if imperfectly executed, offering this time out. She has collected some of the sayings of Jesus that reflect his goodness and godliness. Citing their biblical origins, she has put them into simple language for the audience. Jesus speaks of the need for mercy and repentance and also the importance of coming to faith. "Don't pass judgment, so you won't be judged" and "Love your enemies" are some of the selections. As in Mayer's other books, paintings illustrate the text, including works from the fifteenth century through 1997. Yet despite the range of styles and interpretations from such artists as Rembrandt (though most are lesser known), the art commands much less power than the words. A number of the pictures are dark, but even the ones with an ethereal glow don't seem particularly appealing for kids. This will be most successful when introduced by adults who can connect the words and pictures. Carolyn Phelan
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In another of her elegant-looking picture books, Mayer (The Twelve Apostles) illuminates Jesus' character, personality and teachings. The text consists chiefly of an amalgam of quotes attributed to Jesus in the Gospels; a variety of Bible versions are the sources. The language is contemporary and accessible, if not always poetic ("Don't pass judgment, and you won't be judged"; "Notice how the wild lilies grow: They don't slave and they don't spin"). Focusing on Jesus as a spiritual teacher rather than savior, Mayer informally groups quotes according to such unstated themes as Jesus the champion of children and Jesus the shepherd. Paintings, mostly European and post-Renaissance, appear throughout the volume. Though the accumulation of similar quotes can be slightly overwhelming, young readers will certainly take away a clear impression of Jesus' emphasis on selfless love, compassion and forgiveness. All ages.
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