Etan Boritzer

WHAT IS DEATH? addresses children s natural curiosity about this difficult subject. Introducing the concept of death with examples of customs and beliefs from different religions and cultures, the book also allows the reader to reflect on themes of tolerance, identity and generosity. Reality-based and using a gentle and comforting tone, WHAT IS DEATH? takes an honest approach and encourages children to embrace the positive in life.

What is God? is an eloquent introduction to the ideas behind God and religion, and brings forward complex ideas in a way children will understand. It is written with a simple clarity and beautifully illustrated with just the right blend of seriousness and humor. What is God? compares different religions -- Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism -- and their holy books, looks at misunderstandings and arguments among people of different religions, and talks about praying as well as show more feeling connected to everything in the world. show less

It gives a pretty general overview of various religious beliefs. The author tries to show how almost all religions have the same ideals (no stealing, no lying…) and that perhaps God is the same and is in everywhere and in everything and that we should all be a bit more accepting of each other and our various backgrounds. I liked the idea, but think it could have been a bit more thought through and the illustrations lacked quality.

To strike the balance between the introduction of our faith without the sacrifice of all of worth that can be found in others has been a difficult task. What is God? provided a nice introduction to the idea of religion as well as a few of the major faiths. It continues to be a book that I utilize in our home. The text offers simple but not watered down explanation of what religion, belief and specific faith sets are like.