Debra Haagen

In a world filled with evolution-this, evolution-that, it is so refreshing to find a gentle picture book for children that celebrates God’s unique design of each of His creatures, and how the special features he has equipped them with make it possible for them to exist where He has placed them.

Homeschooling mom of four, Debra Haagen, has written the fact-filled Amazing Animals by Design. The story follow a family of four (mom, dad, girl, boy) through a zoo and explores the unique characteristics of a variety of animals, both common (the elephant) and slightly more unusual (carcacal anyone?) Once the trip to the zoo is over the family marvels together over God’s unique plans for each animal and the care He has taken in designing them. Another aspect of this title that I LOVED is that the family also reflects together upon how God has made humans different from animals, and what the main differences are. Humans are too often lumped together with animals, and I love seeing this differentiation presented respectfully.

Written with early elementary children in mind (K-3rd) my two girls in this age range cuddled together on the couch with me as we read this title together. My 6 and 9-year-olds both really enjoyed this title and the resulting conversations that stemmed from reading it. They give it 5/5, most definitely!

This title is published by Tate, and in my time as a book reviewer I’ve come to associate them as a self-publishing house, but don’t let that deter you AT ALL. The quality of the PDF version of Amazing Animals by Design that we received is simply excellent. The English is well written, clear, and accurate – the illustrations are lovely, this is a high quality production.

Reviewed at quiverfullfamily.com… (mais)