This story lists many of God's creations and how we should all be thankful and offer blessings and praise. "Let everything in heaven and on Earth bless and praise God." Such deep meaning and understanding is expressed in very few words and illustrations. Everything gained in life is a gift from God and the least we can do is bless and praise Him. I loved being to see the side of dePaola through his religious stories. ( )

Summary: Inspired by Old Testament Scripture and the beautiful folk art of the Otomi people of Puebla, Mexico, this book is a wonderful introduction to your little ones on praising God and the beauty of Creation.
Personal Reaction: Illustrations are primitive and very pretty and have muted colors. The illustrations were inspired by the folk art of the Otomi people of Puebla, Mexico. However, the poetry was not as flowing as I would like. It would be a nice bedtime story, but not my favorite his.
Classroom extension: I am not sure I would use it in the classroom except as on example of folk art or to show a different style of illustration/use of color. ( )

Let the Whole Earth Sing Praise by Tomie dePaola. Library section: 11 A: Pre-K, Religion and Character-Building. Probably every American parent and child knows Tomie’s books, in particular, Strega Nona, a folktale of Tomie’s Italian heritage from Calabria. Perhaps you don’t know, however, that Tomie also writes and illustrates fabulous religious books for children such as Clown of God, or Patrick, Patron Saint of Ireland. I am trying to snap up as many of them as I can for our library. His books’ texts and so well-supported by his fabulous artwork.
Here is one of Tomie’s most recent books done in new (for Tomie) tropical colors, with freehand painted lettering and folkloric flowers. The book is about celebrating your world. It’s a beautiful celebration of simplicity and joy for our very youngest kiddies. The text is based on two pieces of scripture: The Canticle of the Three Young Men, also known as the Benedicite, from the book of Daniel. The second scripture is Psalm 148, which is known in monastic circles as Laudate. He combined them, picking and choosing verses and language to make a more childlike “song,” much like St. Francis of Assisi did in his “The Canticle of the Sun.” The art is influenced by the embroideries and naïve designs of the Otomi people from the mountain villages around San Pablito, in Puebla, Mexico.
Tomie says: “I hope the words and images truly express what is written in the Benedicite: All you works of the Lord, Bless the Lord. Praise and glorify Him Forever.”
You can enjoy Tomie’s very own website at www.tomie.com. Its opening page has the same colorful folkloric work as this book. ( )