I received a complimentary copy of this book from B&H Bloggers and was under no obligation to post a review. No compensation was received for sharing this review and all opinions are my own.
Published by B&H Publishing Group on October 1st 2017
Source: B&H Bloggers
Genres: Africa, Christian, General, People & Places, Religious, Values & Virtues, Young Adult
Pages: 32
Ben and his American family live in a hungry ranch house where they are always wanting more. But then they travel far across the world to Kenya and visit the marvelous mud house where George and Mama George live. There, among the mango trees, they discover a marvelous lesson about what it's like to be full of joy instead.
The Marvelous Mud House takes us to Kenya with beautiful illustrations. The illustrations were my favorite thing about this book. That’s not to say that the story isn’t fantastic because it was. The heart of the story is to teach children that material things don’t matter. Being together as a family and grateful to the Lord is what makes us truly happy in life. I love that, but I also felt that the story didn’t adequately explain why Ben and his family were traveling to Kenya. It said they were going on an adventure but older children want to know. My seven-year old wanted to know if they were on a safari. The heart of the story felt like missions but this was never really explained.
All of my children loved the book, the message, and the illustrations. My daughter old told me she wanted to try to help more in the house and be more thankful for the things she has. So, I feel like she really got the heart of the story.
Overall, this book is lovely. I feel like it’s best suited for a child 4-7 but my 10-year old really enjoyed learning about Kenya as well. She loved the illustrations and the ‘Learn the Words of Kenya’ addition to the back of the book.
About April Graney
April Graney is the author of The Marvelous Mud House, a whimsical true story about finding contentment and joy based on her family’s trip to Kenya. Her passions are pointing her own five children towards the grace of God, serving in ministry at New Life Ranch in Oklahoma with her husband, and teaching children and parents about God’s heart for the world and those living in poverty. She enjoys early morning runs with friends, growing tomatoes and herbs, taking naps, drinking coffee, blogging and attempting to be an artist. She has a master’s degree in Biblical studies from Dallas Theological Seminary, and has taught Bible study methods to teenagers, and spoken at leadership camps, and mother/daughter retreats.
Thanks for sharing this one. I’ve always interested in reading stories about different places for my boys.
Most welcome! Enjoy!