When God Makes Scribbles Beautiful
When God Makes Scribbles Beautiful by Kate Rietema, illustrated by Jennie Poh. Published by B&H Publishing Co
I am so excited to share this book with you!
When God Makes Scribbles Beautiful by Kate Rietema, illustrated by Jennie Poh, was published by B&H Publishing in March 2024. It is Kate’s debut picture book! I’m honored to review this book for you and share a short interview I did with her a couple of weeks ago. You can find that interview here: Q&A with Kate Rietema
Hard things happen. Sometimes we tend to forget that hard things happen not just to adults, but to our kids too. Kate reminds us that “children are born persons” (Charlotte Mason). They are not just bouncing around, unaware of what is happening around them.
The book, through illustrator Jennie Poh - her style is gorgeous! - portrays the “hard thing” as a scribble following a little boy. He cannot, no matter how hard he tries, get rid of his scribble.
BUT GOD.
…He cares for us.
…He gives us what we need.
…He keeps His promises.
…He is with us.
…He comforts us.
…and, as it says in Ecclesiastes 3.11, “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”
Through her words and corresponding bible verses, Kate teaches us to wait with hope and assurance that God is who He is. Each spread gives encouragement to do the opposite of what we naturally want to do. It teaches us to always move forward with God. The illustration has the little boy physically moving forward as he walks through his scribble. Kate also reminds us that by walking forward in His truth, towards Him, we will change.
“And God changes you too. Maybe you feel strong enough to climb a tree so magnificent you can see for miles;”
One of the best things I love about this book is that I didn’t walk away from it thinking all about me. I feel like the main message is to love God and love others. I closed the book (quickly buying another copy) falling more in love with God and others.
“And when you notice someone else with a scribble, you will be ready to help.”
When God Makes Scribbles Beautiful is such a good book! Yes, I really did finish reading it the first time and bought another copy because the first copy was for a friend and their kids. I love it because it isn’t sappy. It isn’t a rose-colored glasses book. If you’re looking for truth, goodness, and beauty, I highly suggest adding this book to your home library and maybe even having a couple on hand to gift to others.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning I’ll receive a small commission should you purchase using those links. All opinions expressed are my own. I receive no compensation for reviews.
