Leaves - Evidence of God's Cleverness

Picture Book: A Leaf Can Be…

Author: Laura Purdie Salas

Illustrator: Violeta Dabija

Summary: This author-illustrator duo has a series of 3 stunning books, each celebrating one of Earth’s simple but abundant gifts. This book celebrates leaves, but it's not about the leaf cycle. Instead it's about all the many ways leaves are useful to creatures (like us) who live near them. Who knew the list would be so long! Below is a sample of pages containing the paintings and poetry that make this book so original, gorgeous, and accessible. 

Hanna’s Comments: Anytime we can celebrate God’s good creation in a faith context such discussion are important and meaningful. Right now in most of the USA, leaves can be a strong reminder of the cycle of life. Throughout the year, they can serve to be reminders of God’s provision and beautiful creation. A Leaf Can Be is a perfect read to remind your faith family that God’s clever abundance is evident all around us and year round. Salas and Dabija’s other 2 books in this series directly relate to scripture as well. 

Connect A Rock Can Be… to scriptures such as “There is no rock like our God. (1 Samuel 2:2b). 

I recently used Water Can Be… when teaching about Moses striking the rock with his staff to bring water to the thirsty Israelites in the wilderness. (Exodus 17:4 & Numbers 20:11) During lessons in all three of these books, have your audience imagine what Earth would be like if the subject (leaves, rocks, or water) was lacking or absent. In the back of each book in this series, you’ll find short explanations for each poetic entry so if your audience needs clarification, you’ll be able to do that. Additionally, a glossary and reading list are provided.

Original Publisher & Date: Millbrook Press, 2012

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 4 and up, Pre and up

Formats other than Book: Tablet

Scripture Connections: Any scripture about abundance or God’s provision such as “Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.” (Revelation 4:11)
Idea(s) for Application: Read this book to a group of children who are focusing on God’s creative and clever creation and provision or let this be a simple lesson in the power of attentive and contemplative gratitude to one earthly gift.