When I Talk to God, I Talk About You

PreS-Gr 1–In a meditative rhyming poem, actress Metz and songwriter Collins share loving words to a child, as spoken in their prayers to God. Along with the refrain of the title, their prayers express gratitude for the child’s existence in the world, admiration for the child’s kindness and bravery, and pride in that child’s growth. Though Metz and Collins are Christian, the text and message aren’t specific to any particular denomination or religion. They present the image of a kind and loving deity, describing the essence as a “soft warm light,” and encourage the child into prayer as a daily practice. While the child is addressed as “you,” the illustrations depict various parent-child animal pairs in cozy forest scenes, the parent often gazing adoringly at the child. The digital and pencil illustrations are gentle and appealing.