It’s no secret that I have an affinity for books. (I share some of my favorites here.) But sometimes there is a book that deserves more than a listing and summary. Today I have just that book!
I love picture books. There’s something magical about the ability to weave words and images together so concisely yet still convey so much. I admittedly have yet to outgrow picture books, and I not-so-secretly hope I never do.
As you can probably guess, I’m sharing a picture book today. Now before you scoff or click that little X in the corner, hear me out. This book is worth it.
Still with me? Great!
Happy Dreamer is the latest from creative visionary Peter H. Reynolds. I mentioned two of his books in my favorites because they are magic and inspiration for all ages. His latest is no exception.
From the first page we meet a child full of life. He knows who he is: a happy dreamer. And in that first page we can see a piece of ourselves.
Throughout the book we learn about the many types of dreaming and the many ways the world tries to squash it. But every time the boy is faced with a choice. He chooses to find his way back, knowing who he is, and owning it beautifully.
How often do I own who I am? I couldn’t help but wonder as I turned the pages with my daughter. Do I embrace the person God created me to be? The type of dreamer He made me? Or do I listen to the world that tries to quiet me, box me in, and point out my flaws?
The story is simple, and most of us know how it goes.
See who you are.
Believe it.
Live it.
But there’s something inspiring about being reminded. Seeing that there are dozens of ways to be a dreamer, and that they are all beautiful. Understanding that those childhood dreams are part of the fabric of who we are. They are not trivial or mistakes or fantasies.
Do I embrace the person God created me to be? Click To TweetHappy Dreamer reminds us to embrace the Happy Dreamer, Love Dreamer, Quiet Dreamer, Silly Happy, Nature Happy, all kinds of happy dreamers that we are.
The book may be simple. But living out your dreams in the unique way God created you is anything but simple. It’s amazing.
Maybe you need a little help believing.
Do you ever wonder about who you really are? I wrote a book just for YOU. It’s not as colorful as Happy Dreamer, but it will take you on a journey to believing the things God says about you so you can live life fully believing that you are Worthy. Check it out today!
Check out these great sites I’m linking up with: Literacy Musing Mondays, Purposeful Faith, Tea & Word Tuesday, Abounding Grace, Tell His Story, Porch Stories, Let’s Have Coffee, Worth Beyond Rubies, Moments of Hope, Tune in Thursday, Dance with Jesus, Fresh Market Friday, Faith ‘n Friends, Blogger Voices Network, Grace & Truth, Heart Encouragement
I love rubbing shoulders with a published author!!
I have so much respect for those who have done the hard work that leads to publication.
My hats off to you, friend …
You’re so sweet my friend!
Thank you so much for sharing this book! I’m always on the lookout to find new favorites, and with 2 grands in the wings, there’s a basket that needs to be filled. 😉
You’re so right, “that those childhood dreams are part of the fabric of who we are. They are not trivial or mistakes or fantasies.” Writing has been a childhood dream and continues as a place where God (I pray) can use me. Focusing on what is true, right, noble, admirable, pure… and being thankful – IS an amazing way to live life! Thank you for the reminder!
It amazes me how He has these things knit into our very being!
I do think people have a problem with feeling worthy. None of would be but Jesus made us worthy of Him, the only one worthy to open the Book of Life.
Isn’t it amazing?!
Thanks for sharing!
Pinned this! Always on the look out for great picture books for those grand kids!
I love Peter Reynolds books 🙂
Thanks for the rec. laurensparks.net
Sometimes God uses a child’s book to bring to the forefront deep and profound–though simple–meanings for us as adults, Rebecca. I love that you’re pointing us to pick this one up. I just might have to buy it for my grandson! And what is a dream God’s laid on your heart, my friend? I suppose it has to do with your ministry here, but I’d love to know more specifically!
You’re so sweet, Beth. A dream on my heart right now is to write more books!
I love picture books too, Rebecca, and I’m unashamed about that fact. This one sounds like it holds a message that is good for readers of all ages!
And to have a story that encourages children to dream and own who they are is beautiful.
It is beautiful!
This sounds like a fun book!
It really is great!
This sounds like a great book! I’ll have to keep it in mind for my grandson. I love books that speak to adults as well as children.
They’re the best!
What a great message for all of us no matter our age. Sometimes we make things so complicated in our faith. Especially when it comes to who we are and our dreams. This simple message: see who you are, believe it and live it, is powerful!
Amen!
I love when unexpected books have a special impact on my life! This one sounds like a powerful story. Thank you for sharing this with us!
You’ll love it!
This made me think of the fact that our life should be a picture book to others…living out the life giving words of our Lord Jesus. It starts with allowing His life giving Word to soak in and then we can definitely be a dreamer of all things contentment 🙂 #heartencouragement
Oh Yes! I love this!
There are lessons for us in so many places, it is surprising. It is too easy to set aside our dreams before we consider that God can take the impossible and make it possible! And we are created for His purposes! Thanks for sharing these encouraging words!
Yes, He sure can! All we need to do is come to Him!
I love to meet other adults who still love picture books! I frequently peruse the children’s section of the bookstore, both to find books to send grands and for personal enjoyment. I also frequently read middle grade books. Thank you for sharing these books.
Middle grade books can be so fun. I often find them faster to read with really intriguing story lines! They cut through the fluff to the heart of it!
I always like the quote from Narnia in the Dawn Treader where Aslan appears to Lucy after she has tried to become Susan he says, “Don’t doubt your value child, don’t run from who you are.”
I think most of us at some stage in our lives have tried to become someone or something we are not. But God is growing us into who He created us to be…& that’s important.
Blessings,
Jennifer
Oh, that quote is so so good! I love it!
I love picture books too, Rebecca. I have been known to check one out from the library from times to time even though my girls are both teenagers. 🙂 “Happy Dreamer” sounds (and looks, from the cover) like a wonderful book!
This makes me smile so much! I think I need to check out a few more picture books. I have a feeling my teens will flip through them if they’re on the coffee table or in the kitchen!