Book Corner

For May, a fun book with a serious note. The Non-Praying Mantis A Story About Prayer and Thankfulness written and illustrated by Matt Whitlock.

This is aimed at 4 to 7 year olds to help teach the right way to pray. It is charming and deliciously illustrated in colour throughout. (I liked the pet flea that appears on every page!)

The main character in the story is Amanda the Praying Mantis who doesn't - if you see what I mean. Not for Amanda the hallmark praying position 'in the proud bug tradition'. She rushes around and plays and does not have time to pray. After her family explain why they pray and how they pray. (This was interesting in that the pattern of ACTS - adoration, confession, thanksgiving and supplication - is clear amongst the verse) Amanda decides to have a go. Disgruntled because her long prayer list was not immediately answered in the way she wanted, Amanda finds herself in a difficult position. However, she soon learns that if she prays in the right way with the right attitude, her prayers really will be answered.

The Non-Praying Mantis A Story about Prayer and Thankfulness written and illustrated by Matt Whitlock. (FaithKidz. ISBN 0-7814-3830-6). £4.99

Lynn Winter