Greenlee is Growing by Anthony DeStefano. Convergent Books (2023). 40 pp., $12.99.
There is nothing more thrilling than watching a child discover something new. A few years ago, one of my little nieces was fascinated with an ice puddle and skated around in her boots for several minutes until it was time to go inside. She was enchanted by the crackling sound of the ice and the “slippery slide.” I smiled as she grabbed my hand and led me around to share in her adventure.
Sometimes as we grow older we may lose our zest for such experiences. How do you explain the wonder of the four seasons to children? How do you teach them to embrace every stage of life from infancy to the golden years? How do we find the child inside as we begin to age as adults and become consumed with work and responsibilities?
In his latest book, Greenlee is Growing, New York Times Bestselling author Anthony DeStefano– author of over twenty-five Christian books for adults and children–reminds us of some of the wonderful reasons why life is always worth living. He enthralls readers with heartwarming rhymes and wisdom for readers of all ages.
As I write this today, I can hear the wind gusts outside, see the snow drifts, and experience the cold of our below zero weather. So, you can imagine how delighted and uplifted I was to read his words:
Springtime is here! Springtime is here!
Snowstorms are gone and flowers appear.
Bluebirds are singing, Church bells are ringing,
roses are blooming, upward their zooming.
There isn’t a season as sacred as Spring
when life comes alive in every dead thing.
Coupled with the vibrant illustrations of Greenlee and creation, DeStefano’s verses reminded me of the joy of my favorite season–Easter. He continues to describe each of the seasons with the same awe-inspiring imagery and storytelling. Readers will journey with Greenlee as she grows from a toddler to an elderly woman and see some of her happiest moments in each season. Whether you are a child or a child at heart, you will enjoy this story of “faith, fortitude, and gentle joy.”
Other DeStefano books include: Joseph’s Donkey, The Beggar and the Bluebird, The Seed Who Was Afraid to be Planted, The Grumpy Old Ox, Our Lady’s Wardrobe, and Our Lady’s Picture Book.
Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Institute Press’ Director of Publicity, Sarah Lemieux at slemieux@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a physical or digital copy of Greenlee is Growing and/or to schedule an interview with Anthony DeStefano.
