Just In Case You Ever Wonder

Some stories deserve to grace a new generation. Over 25 years ago America's pastor, Max Lucado, released a children's book that caught the imagination and hearts of millions. After selling 1.7 million copies, Just in Case You Ever Wonder is undergoing a makeover: Lucado's classic words now feature heartwarming and adorable art from illustrator Eve Tharlet. Same words, new images. And even though my kids are way past the age of having books read aloud to them, they will never outgrow the message of this book.

Showcasing the love between a parent and child, the story also reminds children of Jesus's unconditional love. It's a message that will never grow old, so breathing new life into it through Tharlet's friendly bear illustrations is a show more gift to today's children. They will love exploring the pictures. show less

Age group(s): Elementary (1-5)
This book is aimed towards Christians and sings the song of unconditional love from the creator above. It sends a powerful message to all of its readers that you were uniquely made by God himself and you are loved no matter where or when. It addresses fears and disappointments and assures readers that through it all, people who love you surround you. I love that this book touches on the fact that everyone is created differently but equally. I would most definitely use this book to teach diversity but would be careful in public school systems since is does have religious ties. If I used it in a public school, I would be sure to include book from other religious backgrounds and have discussions on show more similarities and differences between them. The illustrations in this book are my absolute favorite and have been since I was a kid. They are lifelike yet dreamy. They are detailed yet subtle. Definitely a “feel good” read. show less

I was given this book by Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Just in Case You Ever Wonder is a beautifully written book about our uniqueness and God's love for us. The story is told by a Momma Bear to her cub. She describes to her little one how God made us each differently from the other. Each special to God, loved by God. She also tells the cub that no matter what, she will always be there, always love him, and never stop being there for him. The book lets us know that God's love for us is eternal and let's the parents know that we should always teach our children to love God, to live a life for God.

The illustrations were as beautiful as the story. One of my pet peeves with childrens books is having illustrations that show more do not match the story being told. Young children follow the story by looking at the pictures. In this case, the illustrations follow along perfectly. I would expect no less from Max Lucado as I've read several of his books and been impressed with each and every one. show less

This book is a beautifully illustrated reminder that we are loved. Papa bear tells his baby how wonderful it is that he was created and how marvelous it is to spend life together. Written for children, told by a parent, Just in Case You Ever Wonder assures its readers that just like a good parent, God will always love and be there for his children. Your parents will always be there for you and one day, parents and children will spend eternity in heaven with God.

This is a lovely story. It's simple and comforting, like being wrapped in a blanket and sitting in front of the fire when there is a storm raging outside. I recommend it to Christian parents who want their children to be reminded of their love and the love of God.

I received a show more free ARC of this book from NetGalley and have reviewed it willingly. show less

In a world where everything is constantly changing, this powerful message of unconditional love is very much needed to young hearts everywhere. Max leaves a tender legacy to his children and shows us the way to comfort our offspring, so tenderly with assuring words, that they are loved no matter what and no matter when.

The book begins by saying that a loving Creator made you! You are so special and you are surrounded with love by your parents in a loving home. Through fears, hard times and disappointments, you'll continue to see that love is still available to you. You'll grow to understand your creator through the beauty of this earth and then when another big change of separation comes, you'll be reassured of a loving reunion one show more day.

You see, this is what I've told my three grown children, that I will always love them and now I play with my four grandchildren and whisper to them daily what I believe to be true... YaYa will always love you... just in case you ever wondered.

Thank you Max Lucado for saying so well, what we all feel in our hearts to share with our own children everywhere. show less

As far as religious/spiritual children's books go, this one is fairly touching. When we read it, we make some changes (i.e. gender-neutral language for God and a few theological changes regarding the topic of heaven). There are a few pages I skip with my three year old because they talk about scary noises in closets or beings scared of shadows. I don't want them to create fears for him. But the rest of the story serves to remind our children just how much we love them...and that we always will, no matter what. Pretty important stuff. It also introduces children to the concept of a benevolent Creator in a gentle way.

Just In Case You Ever Wonder tells of a father's love for his child. This perennial best seller from Max Lucado will wrap your child in its tender message of love, comfort, and protection, showing that as they grow and change, you'll always be there for them.