Pink and orange sunbeams surround a diverse group of children on the cover of this lovely book, welcoming youngsters to Jordan's kid-friendly collection of 21 prayers. Many will already be familiar to young listeners ("Here's the Church" and "Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep"); several are rooted in African American traditions ("Kumbaya" and "Michael, Row the Boat Ashore"); and a few exemplify non-Christian ideologies ("Ancient Tibetan Buddhist Blessing" and "Navajo Song"). Most are short and rhymed, and several are song lyrics. Strickland's hand-printed linoleum block artwork features a multiethnic cast of children involved in a variety of pursuits. Most spreads are set outdoors (with earth tones, reds, and orange hues predominating), and several are frame-worthy, especially the depiction of hands emerging from an ocean to embrace land, trees, animals, a child, rainbows, and the sun, representing "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands." Appended with a note about the authors and sources of these prayers (most are available in public domain), this should make a good addition to the young family prayer shelf.

Jordan (mother of NBA star Michael) compiles an appealing collection of songs, prayers, and blessings (mostly Judeo Christian, with one Ancient Tibetan Buddhist blessing, one Islamic prayer, and one Navajo song) for young children. Familiar American spirituals include "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands" and "Kumbaya." Stricklands rich linoleum-cut illustrations of children in nature and at peace make this collection shine.

Jordan presents an interfaith compilation of poems, prayers, and songs that includes familiar offerings such as -He-s Got the Whole World in His Hands- and -Michael, Row the Boat Ashore,- as well as Tibetan Buddhist and Old Testament blessings, an Islamic prayer, and a Navajo song. Many of the 20+ entries are of unknown origin, and an afterword provides a handful of details about them. Colored in a creamy, restful palette, Strickland-s linoleum prints are loosely structured over an unfolding day, featuring children around the world heading into church, clasping hands while singing, and enjoying moments of quiet solitude. It-s an eclectic and varied look at the way communities and cultures express praise, gratitude, and blessing. Ages 4-8. Illustrator-s agent: Lori Nowicki, Painted Words. (Oct.)