A Heartfelt Review of “God Gave Us You”
As a mom, the bedtime routine can sometimes feel like a mini marathon. There are those nights when my kids are wound up like little wind-up toys, and getting them to settle into bed feels nearly impossible. Just last week, after what felt like a hundred requests for water, one last round of jumping on the bed, and a plea for five more minutes of storytime, my youngest, little Lucy, looked up at me with wide, curious eyes and asked, “Mommy, where do babies come from?” It was in that moment I remembered God Gave Us You by Lisa Tawn Bergren, a beautifully crafted book that explores that very question in a gentle, reassuring way.
Sweet Themes and Cozy Characters
God Gave Us You introduces us to a charming polar bear cub who cuddles up to her Mama bear one night, filled with wonder and questions. As you flip through its pages, you see Mama bear answer her little one’s queries about where she came from with love and warmth, reminding her that she was wanted “very, very much” because—yes—“God gave us you.” It’s a theme that resonates with both children and parents, enveloping the reader in a comforting embrace that confirms every little one’s place in the world.
My kids, especially Lucy, were entranced by the story. The simple yet profound message sparked discussions about being loved and cherished, making it perfect for those bedtime chats that drift away from the ordinary.
Illustrations that Sing
The illustrations by Laura J. Bryant are just as lovely as the text. Soft, pastel colors blend together beautifully, and the images of the polar bears snuggling under the starlit sky felt like a warm hug at bedtime. During our reading, my eldest, Max, pointed out the intricate details, giggling at Mama and her baby snuggling under a yellow checkered blanket. The kindness captured in the artwork complements the story so well that it becomes a visual delight, keeping my little ones engaged until the last turn of the page.
Little Blessings and Big Reactions
One of my favorite moments, during our reading, was when Lucy let out a surprised gasp at Mama bear’s proclamation that she was a “gift” from God. She exclaimed, "I am a gift too, right, mommy?" Sparked by the book, we had a beautiful conversation about being loved, cherished, and uniquely made by God—a moment of insight that I will treasure forever.
As for their favorite pages, it was hard to pick just one. The part where Mama bear lovingly shares, "Never, ever, ever," a response to whether she ever wished for a different baby, had us all laughing and reflecting on our own family dynamics.
Final Thoughts
I’d recommend God Gave Us You to families with children from infancy up to age three—perfect for baby showers, christenings, or just as a bedtime staple. It’s the kind of book that we read repeatedly, and with each reading, it offers a fresh perspective on love and belonging.
This gentle story filled my heart and soothed my little ones’ curiosity. Did it become an instant favorite? Absolutely. It’s a reminder to all of us that each child is a precious gift, and we are so lucky to be able to share stories that affirm this truth.
So, gather your little ones, snuggle up, and let this lovely tale remind you of the warmth and joy that comes from being a family. After all, God gave us you—just as you are.
Discover the heartwarming message of God Gave Us You. >>
