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The first time I discovered Sister Wendy Beckett’s art books for children, I was shocked that a Catholic nun had written a book published by DK. In the living books community, there is a strong prejudice against DK books. Many consider them visually cluttered and shallow in content. However, I think this book is a perfect example of why we shouldn’t throw the baby out with the bathwater. While some DK books may resemble twaddle, others can be magnificent. My copy of A Child’s Book of Prayer in Art is a DK book and it is magnificent.
In her note to parents and teachers, Sister Wendy states:
“This book is really self-contained and, in many cases, the best thing for an adult to do is simply stay clear – let children get on with the book alone.”
Sister Wendy is not just a student of art—she is an excellent teacher of it. More importantly, she has a rightly ordered understanding of what art is, who it serves, and who it points to. A Child’s Book of Prayer in Art is an excellent resource for anyone who wishes to introduce young children to classical art in a meaningful and prayerful way.
The book is structured with simple yet lovely intentionality. Each two-page spread features a single masterpiece, accompanied by the title, artist, and other relevant details. The facing page provides a brief commentary that helps the child engage with the art, offering gentle guidance on how the piece can inspire prayer and contemplation. Sister Wendy does not impose rigid interpretations but instead invites children to observe, wonder, and reflect.
This book would be especially valuable for families and librarians seeking to expose tender young souls to the most beautiful art. Reading just one two-page spread per day or week would provide incredible richness for a child’s spiritual and aesthetic formation. I wish I had known about this book when my children were little, but I am grateful to have discovered it now. It is, without question, a must-have.