"Let it Shine"

"Let it Shine" by Ashley Bryan is truly a joyful book to share with children.  Three favorite spirituals grace the pages along with colorful and creative illustrations.  I shared this book with one of my children and he loved it.  Singing to him as I turned the pages was such enjoyment for both of us.  "This Little Light of Mine," "Oh, When the Saints Go Marching In," and "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands" are the spirituals shared by Ashley Bryan.  I thoroughly enjoyed being able to sing the words as my child looked on with curiousity and anticipation of the next illustration.  The songs he illustrated were some of my favorites growing up and I hope my own children will develop an interest in them as well.  I learned that children are very dependent on illustrations to tell the stories.  The words being printed at the bottom of the pages allows children to focus on the pictures rather than the words in this particular book.  I highly recommend this book to parents and teachers of younger children.