Something amazing happens when an author can pare down huge truths about God into simple language. When these stories are done well and are made accessible to children, the truths become even more clear and powerful. Love Does for Kids by Bob Goff and his daughter Lindsey Goff Viducich (an elementary school teacher) does just that. Bob and Lindsey tell stories from Bob’s and his kids’ childhoods and adulthoods that helped him understand God’s love.
Throughout this book, Bob’s adventurous and enthusiastic view of life resonates. And the beautiful illustrations by Michael Lauritano add to the wonder.
Video of Unicycle Story
Bob’s Unicycle Story
In one story, Bob’s kindergarten-aged son asked for a unicycle as a birthday present (five months before his birthday). Bob writes:
“It didn’t occur to Richard to choose something he was great at to perform in the carnival. Instead, he just thought of the coolest thing he could imagine and went for it. I love that about my son.”
… “When Richard’s teacher asked him what he wanted to do for the carnival, Richard didn’t stop to think about what he couldn’tdo or what he didn’thave. Instead, he imagined the carnival trick that would make the biggest impact, and he asked his parents for help and guidance in making it happen.
“Did you know that we get to do the same thing? When you’re thinking about how to show people love, go big. Imagine the most extraordinary thing you could do to love others, go to your heavenly Dad for help and advice, and pursue the creative dreams He has given you with everything you’ve got. In the end, God doesn’t delight in our successes; He delights in our attempts. Anything we do to love others, even imperfectly, is one shaky pedal forward toward bringing God’s kingdom here on Earth.”
Bob Goff, Love Does for Kids, pp. 42-45
Love Does for Kids is like The Book of Virtues on infectious steroids. With its theme of loving others and loving the life God’s given us with hope and enthusiasm, it’s a much-needed counterbalance to the concerns that many children hold.
This would be a great read-aloud book for families with young children or for grade-school kids to read by themselves. Even as an adult, I’ve bookmarked several pages that brought me to tears or opened my eyes to the delight God must experience in us as His creations.
In addition, the authors connect these stories to Jesus and God. Stories from the Bible are also woven throughout (but Bible references aren’t given). If parents would like to use this book as a devotional with their kids, they might use one of the online Bible apps to search for phrases from the stories referenced to find where they’re found in the Bible.
Summary
Love Does for Kids will encourage children that they’re deeply loved by God. It will also motivate them toward the grand adventure of sharing that love with others.
Deb — I love Bob Goff’s “Everybody Always.” Thanks for acquainting your readers about this book too.
Suzanne, I get excited about great books for kids!