“Weekdays are for school. Saturday’s for having fun. But Sunday is the Lord’s Day. Sunday is for God.” So begins the text of a child-centered picture book about the special Sunday rituals of one Christian, African American family. From sunrise to sunset, the story’s narrative stays true to a young child’s experience as he participates in the family’s activities: dressing up for church, having to sit still, and listening to prayers, hymns, and preaching he doesn’t entirely understand. Through it all he takes his cues from his mother, father, and grandfather, following their lead. He ultimately feels like his grandpa, “not laughing and smiling happy, just quiet happy.” Distinctive acrylic paintings use pieces of paper from hymnals and prayer books as a collage medium. (Ages 4–7)

“Weekdays are for school and Saturday’s for having fun. But Sunday is the Lord’s Day. Sunday is for God.”

A boy longs to play in the river on this hot summer day, but instead he has to sit quietly in a pew. His collar itches and his tie’s too tight—why does the Lord care whether people get dressed up for church, anyway? But as hymns and prayers fill the room, he begins to appreciate the simple beauty of a day set aside for family and prayer. At the end of the service, he explains a prayer to his little sister by whispering, “The Lord will take care of us no matter what. Like Momma and Daddy”—a deeply comforting message for young readers.