This story focuses on the powerful love between a boy and his grandfather. During a conversation while walking together in the woods, Grandad tells the boy that trees, rocks and streams pray, as sure as people do: “The tall grass prays as it waves its arms beneath the sky, and flowers pray as they breathe their sweetness into the air.” Though he listens really hard, the boy cannot hear.

Later, as he grieves the death of his grandad, the now older boy has an epiphany. He seems finally to grasp that letting one's God-given beauty shine, is a prayer in itself, a prayer which when honestly expressed, contributes to the beauty of all life on earth. Readers will see other interpretations, but may also see the entire earth in a new light.

Highly recommended, especially to supplement discussions with children about biodiversity and ecology. Also very helpful as a way to introduce prayer and discussion about spirit as expressed by diverse forms of life.

From Publishers Weekly-
“Wood's (Old Turtle) reassuring tone and pleasing imagery serve as a framework for the powerful love between grandparent and child that lies at the heart of this story. These solid elements help make a difficult religious concept somewhat more concrete for children. As Wood's text (wisely) offers no definitive answer to the boy's queries about prayer, it could easily serve as a starting point for family discussions. And perhaps best of all, readers are treated to a peaceful nature walk in Lynch's soft, careful scenes of man and boy enjoying rushing streams, quiet twilight skies and brilliant green leaves and grasses glistening in the sun.”

From School Library Journal-
“…Without mentioning any specific God or belief, the thoughtful text celebrates all creation and is perfectly complemented by the moving, expressive illustrations.”