With bold and richly colored illustrations and a message of joy in all circumstances, The Marvelous Mud House is the perfect addition to your home library. The story centers on two very different families — one in Kenya and the other in the United States. There is an obvious difference in the economic state of each family, but it is the contentment in want versus discontent in plenty that will make an impression on your kids. George and his Mama have a faith that God will provide and they find joy in all aspects of their life. The Smith family, on the other hand, are always hungry for more, even when their cup overflows. The contrasts are excellent and will make your kids (and you!) think about the many blessings they enjoy, and perhaps spark creative ways to help others! The book provides a Parent Connection that will assist you in leading a discussion including truths found in the Bible. There are Kenyan words to learn and actual artwork from George’s village to enjoy.

Although not a Christmas story, The Marvelous Mud House is the perfect book to read during the weeks leading up to Christmas because of its focus on God and His provision. Consider making this one part of your family read-along this holiday season.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: children 4-8.

(Thanks to B&H Publishers for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.) ( )

The Marvelous Mud House: A Story of Finding Fullness and Joy, written by April Graney and illustrated by Alida Massari, tells the stories of two families. One family – the Smith family of America – overflows with material wealth, but is never satisfied. The other family – Mama George and her son of Kenya – lacks material wealth, but is rich in love, strength and life.When these two families meet, they are both changed. Mama George and her son teach the Smith family how to be content with less and the joy that comes from contentment. In turn, the Smith family blesses Mama George by giving sacrificially. Both families are changed for the better by their experiences. Read more in The Marvelous Mud House.

I recommend The Marvelous Mud House by April Graney for children ages 3-7. It's a little too long to hold the attention of my two year old, so I'm rating it for a slightly older child. A small reader's discussion guide is provided at the end of the story as well as a few Kenyan words a child could learn.

The narrative of this storybook conveys messages of personal contentment and giving to others. As a mom of two young children, raised in America, I am thankful for a resource that promotes contentment and giving. It's natural for children to want more; but, it's also good to teach them at a young age how to be content and full of joy, whether or not they have a new toy. Mama George's song was beautiful – a lovely way to remind oneself to value spiritual/eternal things over temporal pursuits.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." ( )