Search - Bob Lends a Helping . . . Hand?

ISBN 031070538x - VeggieTales in general appeal to me because they manage to teach Christian ideas without dragging Christianity into it, which gives them a broader audience. This title fails in that.

Bob has promised his neighbor that he will do some chores around her house while she is at the doctor's for a broken toe. Bob enlists the help of his friend Larry and his neighbor's son, Joe. Larry, eager to help, begins to suggest grand, super-hero things that he can do to help, but Bob explains that it's just some simple chores, like dusting and raking, that need doing. Rather than feeling disappointed at the ordinary work, Larry realizes that even doing the little things shows love.

Authors Cindy Kenney and Mike Nawrocki manage to reach the last page before invoking their god ("To be god's superhero, simply lend a helping hand!"), but it's a disappointment for me because I think the reference automatically limits their reach. Non-believers will miss out on the lesson, which is a good one, because they won't want the book due to the religious reference. The illustrations are fantastic - bright, bold and fun - but I can't credit the illustrator because none is named on the book.

The thick board book pages will stand up to some rough handling. The pages are glossy and wipe clean of most small messes easily.

- AnnaLovesBooks

This is a cute and funny book that encourages kids (age 3 to 6) to help out with chores at home.

I just love everything about the VeggieTales brand. This is a cute book showing that you don't need to make a big gesture to just help out.