Adam, Adam, What Do You See?

Presents, in rhymed and illustrated text, a variety of questions and answers about Biblical characters and events from the Old and New Testaments. By the author of Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?

PreSchool-K-Using the familiar format of Brown Bear, Brown Bear (Holt, 1983), Old and New Testament biblical figures are queried about what they see. Adam sees Creation; Noah sees animals in the ark; Abraham, a starry sky; Joseph, a coat; Moses, the Red Sea parting; Samson, strength from God; Ruth, a new land; Mary, Baby Jesus; Peter, miracles; etc. Each rhymed question and answer has a Scripture quotation cited to lead children to the appropriate Bible story. The final portrayal of what Jesus sees is ambiguous in that it indicates that all of these people are seeking him. The book is thus restricted to use in a Christian setting. In that context, it provides an excellent discussion starter and lead-in to the various stories. The flat, cartoon-style, double-page illustrations, with their interesting perspectives and brilliant colors, are lively and eye-appealing.
Patricia Pearl Dole, formerly at First Presbyterian School, Martinsville, VA
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Adapting the structure and rhythms of Martin's classic Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? to Christian themes, Martin and Sampson (Star of the Circus) offer young children a friendly, age-appropriate introduction to biblical figures and concepts. In just a few words, the authors encapsulate and allude to the Bible's most dramatic moments, leaving plenty of room for discussion and leading readers to the biblical verses that serve as sources. Adam, answering the title question, says, "I see creation all around me"; Genesis 2:4-25 is cited. Abraham's response is distilled with particular thoughtfulness: "I see a starry sky blinking at me." Evenly divided between Old and New Testament personages, the volume builds to an encounter with Christ ("Little Child, Little Child,/ What do you see?/ I see Jesus watching over me") and a Christian coda ("Jesus, Jesus,/ What do you see?/ I see [the previously named characters] all seeking me"). Felstead's (Who Made Me?) exuberant painted-paper collages honor Eric Carle's work in Brown Bear and its companions, although her palette is milder. Her compositions vary the pace, alternating moments of tranquility (e.g., Ruth happily entering "a new land waiting for me") with lots of action (Paul fleeing his cell, stones cascading in the background, illustrates "an earthquake setting me free"). The simplicity of text and art belie masterly craftsmanship. Ages 3-7. (Sept.)
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.