I was given this book as a young child. I lost the book but I never forgot the story. Now that I am about to have a child of my own this book is how I want to introduce him to Jesus. This book introduces Jesus to children on their own level, as a visiting guest just like any other. It makes the child think about how he or she would treat Jesus if He came to their house. Would they need to act differently or not? It makes the child think about their actions now. I love this book

My mother used to read this book to me as a child. Now as an adult, it is my favorite gift to give to children.

I always imagined myself what it would be like if Jesus did come to my house. What were some of the things I'd do, how would I act and what would I say? Then this little book came along. The little boy in this book imagines what it would be like if Jesus spent a day with him. If Jesus were a little boy like him he thought, he would share with him the best toys he had. By lending them to the poorest boys and girls. Even though Jesus maybe not have visited, the little boy hoped that He would bless his house for all the kindness and goodness he gave to those less fortunate. It teaches young children the Christian Golden Rule of sharing with one another. And, caring for your fellow friends that brings joy to everyone's heart. The gentle message tells children how to treat others with the love of giving. This should be a classic of children's books. It teaches a valuable lesson.

My friend who was an artist gave me this book to read. Now it is one of the few that I carry around at all times. Robert Henri saw that there is no division between art and life. To be an artist, or trully alive for that matter, one has to experience life to his fullest. This means finding yourself and the people/things/and way of living that inspire you. When beauty strikes you so, and your full of love and joy it is hard not to do things beautifully. Henri tells us to find that beauty within us and the rest will follow. And one of the most enjoying things I found about this book was that the authors personality is very bright in every sentence. It made the book a great read. To enjoy this book, you need not to know art but to know life.

This is a book of notes, articles, letters and student instruction from the teacher himself (not any ordinary teacher, mind you) about the concept and technique of picture making, the study of art generally and on appreciation. This is an easy read; one that can be read a bit at a time at leisure. It felt like a visit with an old friend. Full of inspiration and a touch of philosophy here and there, it brings it all together. I quote just this once from Mr. Henri: "Art appreciation, like love, cannot be done by proxy: It is a very personal affair and is necessary to each individual." He is giving advice here on not following the critics! I include this to give the reader the "flavor" of the book. I feel this book is a must read for any artist...and a wonderful re-read, over and over again!

Within his treatise on art and its many facets, well-known artist and teacher Robert Henri shares insight on the making and viewing of art. He offers insight on areas which all artists must eventually come to terms with, including proportion, technique, color, style, and subject matter. He discloses a lifetime of his personal "life-lessons" about his own art and his personal struggles as an artist, and he shares honestly the perils and triumphs of both he and his students. In a mere moment the reader learns lessons about art and its making which take artists years to learn. This book is a joy in every sense of the word -- from Henri's suggestions on rendering light reflecting from a woman's lower lip to his secrets to making a portrait "glow". Henri's The Art Spirit is a must-read for any reader interested in any aspect of art. ---- A classic.

This book has not received the credit it deserves. I had never heard of it before my mother-in-law bought it for my son. It is an absolute MUST have book for new parents. The soft illustrations are beautiful. My 19 month old son loves this book. He seems to enjoy the rhyming words, and he loves to point at all of the animals. I can't read it to him without feeling that tremendous rush of motherly love. It can quickly make you forget all of the temper tantrums of the day. My husband and I both enjoy sharing this book with our little one.

This large format board book is a re-issue of the same title originally published in 1993. Each page has a double-spread illustration of an animal mother and baby, with the mother telling the baby how much it is loved. The final illustration is of a human mother cuddling her newborn infant, saying "I love you as much as a mother can love." The poem is sentimental, which in terms of the subject is quite alright, and the illustrations are lush and beautiful. Young children will enjoy the animals; their mothers will get teary at the words. This larger board book format will work very well in group sharing, such as toddler storytime, and is likely to be easier and sturdier for small hands to hold than the original paper edition was.

I HAVE READ THIS BOOK TO MY 1 YR OLD DAUGHTER AND ALL THOUGH IM SURE SHE DOESNT UNDERSTAND THE WORDS, SHE UNDERSTANDS THE TIME WE ARE SHARING TOGETHER. SHE LOVES THE PICTURES AND POINTS TO EACH ANIMAL WHEN I TELL HER WHAT THE ANIMAL IS.SHE THEN POINT TO THE SMALLER ONE AND SAYS BABY.THIS BOOK IS SHORT ENOUGH TO HOLD HER ATTENTION.BUT LONG ENOUGH TO HAVE AN IMPACT ON HER. WHEN I PUT IT DOWN SHE PICKS IT UP AND HANDS IT BACK TO ME. I BELIEVE READING TO CHILDREN IS VERY IMPORTANT AND MY LIL GIRL LOVES THIS BOOK. SHE HAS MANY BOOKS AND ALWAYS BRINGS THIS ONE TO ME.

This is a good story. Maybe if I hadn't read so many of Henri's other books, where he recounts some of the same experiences as in this book, I would have been more moved. It was helpful and touching to read about this relationship Henri had which had such a profound influence on him, and in which his theology culminated. He had been realizing for several years that we are all called the Beloved independent of what we do, have, or how we look--but this was most pronounced for him through his relationship with Adam.

So it is worthwhile getting a fuller picture of how Adam taught Henri so many important things about God and himself, but if you have already read many of Nouwen's books (written after he went to L'Arche), much will be repetitive. But evenso, the story and concrete examples of Henri living out his theology are really beautiful. And as someone who works closely with and sees God in people with developmental disabilities, it is wonderful for me to see how Henri saw God in Adam. One of the other reviewers accuses Henri of romanticizing relationships with people with disabilities, but I do not find this to be the case. It was clear that Henri was writing a book about how he encountered Jesus in Adam, and of course focused on incidents that would show that. I did not find the book lacking just because it mainly talked about the peaceful and beautiful moments, because the purpose of the book is to show us how God is in every person, and in a special way in people with disabilities; and it comes across loud and clear. I recommend this short book, though it is definitely not my favorite by Nouwen; it could easily be read in one afternoon.

Henri Nouwen teaches from his personal experience. The lessons in this book go beyond head learning. Instead, the book explains how a broken, severely disabled young man can be an inspirational teacher to a Havard professor and theologian and to you and me. The book is written in easy conversational language and carries a very powerful, potentially life altering message about the Love of God made manifest through the broken body of the young man named Adam. A must read.

Adam, God's Beloved, by Henri J. M. Nouwen, is an excellent book for a family caring for a special needs person, for the friends of special needs people, and for anyone wanting to understand the special world of those that are "different" from them. We are parents of a very dear special needs boy, and this book offered me a much more positive outlook toward my son than this world tends to offer. I was blessed and touched by Henri Nouwen's identification of Adam with Jesus. This book is realistic and inspiring at the same time--par excellente!

I don't care if it's true or not, it's still a great story. This book is a real page turner. Though rumors persist that Charriere made PAPILLON up, there are enough nuggets of truth to make you think otherwise. I had a little trouble with Papi's consistent nobility throughout. Charriere leads you to believe he was a gentleman throughout. Kind of hard to believe. Also, he's a little sketchy on his conviction for murder. That leads me to believe he probably commited the crime for which he was convicted. I would agree that the French system of justice was pretty harsh back in the 1930's, but I'm sure Charriere exaggerated "a little" here and there.

But don't get me wrong. This was an amazing read. There is much more to the story than the movie. Truly great book.

Hi, I owned the copy of this book for several years and I had read it 3 times. He will forever be an example and a teacher to me. To meet this great man would be a wonderful gift. Though he is no angel and life has brought out the ugliest of all of him, he remains a powerful influence. If he can be so strong in such situations (i.e. watching his best friend devoured by unforgiving sharks,withstanding solitary for two years in the most creative ways, the list goes on...for 13 years!) then I can survive anything this existence throws my way. I've met my Jesus through this book. I hope to read it again one day so as to have a greater appreciation of it, perhaps after i've been through some of my own horrors. I'll definitely see the movie. I've already passed the book on to a lucky person, despite that I'd love to keep it. Looking for adventure, romance, lust, utter suspense, even amusement (he's got a great sense of humour through it all)? HEAR IT!!!!!!!!

Out of print? Well check your local library for a copy because you must read this book. I went to the library to check out Tom Wolfe's THE RIGHT STUFF but they did not have that book. So, I looked around for something else to read and that is when I saw PAPILLON. I was only vaguely familar with the man and his story but it looked interesting. I checked the book out and proceeded to read the greatest adventure story ever written. I could not put this book down until I was finished. I will never forget Papillon's amazing struggle for freedom and his life. Henri Charriere's writing made me feel like I was right there with him during his incredible adventures. Some people question the veracity of Charriere's story because they can not believe one man has been through so much and came out alive. I feel it is not important whether the whole story is really true or not, it is only important that you believe it is. Read this book and enjoy!

There is so much in our every day lives that tries to make us believe that we are no good; we do not count; we don't measure up. Many of us have begun to learn those messages as a small child. Henri Nouwen has a way of letting you know that you do matter and are precious in God's sight. In spite of the fact that I have studied theology, I found that when stressed, a feeling of emptiness often overcame me that I could not explain. I knew that God loved me. I knew that God loves everyone. However, that knowledge was in my head. At a continuing education event, a new friend gave me a copy of this book, urging me to "read it soon". The knowledge that I was loved beyond my wildest imagination sank from my head into the rest of me. I felt joy and love like I had never known before. A silly feeling that I wasn't entitled to all that love was quickly dispelled by the knowledge that God has more love for each of us than we can imagine - even when we become overwhelmed and feel "like bottomless pits of human need". What a liberating word of joy that continues to fill my very being. Read it! You'll be glad you did!

This is an excellent book for someone who has never read Nouwen's writings. The book carries a great message of hope; that God, who created us in his image and likeness, calls us to live our lives with the knowledge that we are His "beloved" children and that He is always calling us to a deeper love and intimacy with Him.

In response to negative reviews of this book because it doesn't beat you over the head with purely Christian messages, there is much to be said for Nouwen's reaching out to people of all faiths and gently leading them to think about what God's will is for their lives, and how they are called to live - in love and in loving others. Isn't that Jesus' ultimate message to all of us?

Life of the Beloved is among the final books published by Nouwen, and in that way is kind of a culmination of much of his life and thought and is thought by many to be his "flagship" work. Truly, it doesn't get much better than this. Reading this book as a Christian can be a mind and, hence, life altering experience. It was written to some of Henri's non-Christian friends about how much God loves them (which is certainly true!). And from the way Henri's life consistently pointed towards Jesus and the Gospel, I am sure that his friendship, love, and words to them in conversation were used by God for the good of the hearers. On that note, I would caution using this book alone as something to give to your non-Christian friends; because as Henri used it, it is best backed up by your life, love for your friends, and pointing them towards Jesus in your day to day life, and not as a gift without a relationship.

The book is clear, and ultra-concise (you could probably read it in a day or two); yet, the message, of how to live as the Beloved of God amidst a world where there are lies about your identity at every turn, could not be more fundamental to how a Christian lives their life. I wholeheartedly recommend and in fact strongly encourage all Christians to read this book.

What an incredible book. What a simple message, deeply explored and wonderfully exposited.

Henri Nouwen is a master of reflection, study, self-knowledge, and of writing beautiful, profound books. This book is amazing, perhaps life-changing. It has spoken to me in profound and deep ways, and I am deeply thankful for it.

Nouwen's main message, I think, is the unconditional, unfailing, all-surpassing love of the Father, this love that meets all needs easily. He puts himself in the place of the younger son, the older son, and the father, and considers this love - and the things that keep us from fully experiencing it - in all of these places, places that ring universal.

The media of realization here is the parable of course, but also Rembrandt's painting, Return of the Prodigal Son. It is profoundly helpful, fun, and provoking to consider this representation of the story and let it work spiritually in us, as it has in Father Henri. This book has more than opened my heart to the love of my Father, it has given me a new love for art, and a side education on Rembrandt and one of his most famous paintings.

In short, this is another truly rare, truly wonderful book from a modern mystic. Nouwen will be remembered, I hope, alongside Augustine, Lewis, and others I have yet to discover but now believe exist.

A sample:

"Home is the center of my being where I can hear the voice that says: "You are my Beloved, on you my favor rests"-the same voice that gave life to the first Adam and spoke to Jesus, the second Adam; the same voice that speaks to all children of God and sets them free to live in the midst of a dark world while remaining in the light. I have heard that voice. It has spoken to me in the past and continues to speak to me now. It is the never-interrupted voice of love speaking from eternity and giving life and love whenever it is heard. When I hear that voice, I know that I am home with God and have nothing to fear. As the Beloved of my heavenly Father, "I can walk in the valley of darkness: no evil would I fear." As the Beloved, I can confront, console, admonish, and encourage without fear of rejection or need for affirmation. As the Beloved, I can be tortured and killed without ever having to doubt that the love that is given to me is stronger than death. As the Beloved, I am free to live and give life, free also to die while giving life."

If you'd like to discuss this book with me, or recommend others, or just chat, e-mail me at williekrischke@hotmail.com. I'd love to talk with you.

Henri Nouwen has a way of making us look into the places that we would rather not look. When we are drawn into this study of the Rembrant painting we find a darkness that leads us to an illumination of our own lives. In this book it is with great joy that we discover love and forgiveness as well as hope. This book is a must read for all Christians. In going to the place that I did not want to go I found the place that I needed to go. This is the best spiritual book that I have read in years. I wish we had published this book.

This book: Nouwen simple faith in a God who loves his runaway childern brings great insight into the life of Grace and being a follower of Christ. A must read for anyone who struggles with pushing too hard to be a "good" Christian. This book delevers to all Christians regardless of background and spiritual walk...Grace and love are the lessons of this text...and a hard one at that...based on the teachings of Christ and Nouwen's meditations of the famous Rembrant painting housed in Russia titled " Return of the Prodigal Son". It is also a good read because it gives us a look at the life of Henri J. M. Nouwen, he eagerly shares his own personal trials and how he has related to the parable of the Prodigal Son. This books is on of my top ten.

The dinosaurs in this book are friendly and cute. The pictures work well with the writing. The almost repetitive nature of this book make it easy for children to remember and read the book themselves.

My son loves this book. Even now whenever he sees something dinosaur, he'll say "Roar"!

There are so many books for children out there, it's hard for me to say one is a must have over the other. However, this is one that children will love. I found it well worth the money we spent on it.

As a mom of two boys-(ages 20 months and 32 months) this book has been a hit since the day I purchased it. The bright colored pictures and sounds of the dinosaurs really hold the interest of my children. Both of my children continue to request this book to be read to them again and again... As a parent, this has also been a great learning book about opposites,e.g.- dirty and clean, dinosaurs roar and squeak). A truly terrific book for young toddlers of 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 years of age.

I absolutely LOVE this book. My son is 11 months old and his attention span is short, to say the least! This book is a quick, rhyming read with exceptional pictures. My son loves the colors and marvels at the different sized dinosaurs and the sing-song in my voice when I read this book. An absolute must!

This is actually a presentation on de Tocqueville's life and times, centered on a general analysis of Democracy in America, but including much background on his family's history, his political career and accomplishments and a look at the historical context of France, Europe and the US in the mid 19th Century. The themes of DiA are reviewed with many quotes from the book and from commentaries by de Tocqueville's contemporaries. He is presented in all his glory: his hits (the brilliant insights into social character, the nature of democracy and his devastatingly astute, timeless analysis of our American identity) and his misses (his advocacy of war and his surprisingly traditionalist views of society's class structure). An occasional cheesy French accent in some of the characterizations is the only flaw. This is a _great_ commute tape, I look forward to "reading" more in this series on other great writers!

Democracy in America by Alexis De Tocqueville is by far an in depth view of America as seen by the traveling Frenchman. It is written so well that even today almost one hundred and fifty years later it is still apropos.

The translation flows very easily and is not distracting. De Tocqueville has a wonderful writing style that could pass today even though it was written long ago... so well readable and quotable that you get the picture of American life, morals, and an astute view of politics all rolled into one.

You get a view and meaning of American civilization, for America herself, and also for Europe. You can tell from reading. that this view is ever-present in De Tocqueville's mind as if he is a comparative sociologist. Yet reading this book you get the impression that De Tocqueville had generations of readers in mind.

As De Tocqueville noted, "It is not force alone, but rather good laws, which make a new govenment secure. After the battle comes the lawgiver. The one destroys; the other builds up. Each has its function." So true even for todays war. After you defeat your enemy you have to build up the infratructure just as Marshall and Truman both realized.

Reading this book you see the skillful eye of the author noticing and recording what he sees and he is impressed. I found this book to be of great import for the observations of America and hope that our educators use this book for teaching our children about the great country we live in.

De Tocqueville is every bit as brilliant and insightful as he has been said to be. The book is as relevant now as when written and is a must read for every american who is serious about understanding his country. What one realizes in reading the book is how novel and radical was the american experiment in creating a state that was both a republic and a democracy. De Toqueville's research was amazing, as well, he read the laws and constitutions of the various states, he didn't just observe the manifestation of american government and society. His assessments of the plusses and minuses of our government forms was incredibly astute and it is interesting to reflect on the changes that took place in the government after his time and how accurately he foresaw the advantages and disadvantages of those changes, as well. Given the short period of time that he spent in this country and the distances that he travelled one stands in awe of his work. His writing style is, of course, dated but one gets accustomed to it and learns to follow the rhythm.

This book is not just for formal Christian leaders, but for anyone who wants to be focused on what is really important in the Christian life. It is really short, and you could definitely read it in less than 2 hours (probably closer to 1 hour). But it will remind you of what being Christian is all about--being genuine and vulnerable, and loving others through that vulnerability. It is a beautiful picture of leadership, and about how as a leader we can be set free to be ourselves and enjoy God and love others. In a lot of ways, Nouwen shows how the most effective leadership is very simple and has been done for a couple thousand years. It's about emptying ourselves, taking up our cross, and sharing that journey with those in our care. This book is well worth the short amount of time it will take to read.

Using the three temptations of Christ, Henri does a superb job of bringing the three temptations to everyday life. He answers important questions of today by addressing one central idea, identity. The strength of this book is in the three identity issues, "I am what I do" "I am what others say about me" and "I am what I control."

Nouwen does a great job of shutting down cultural messages to focus upon one point, our identity in Christ.

A must read for anyone in Christian Leadership, especially those who teach others and desire to become relevant leaders for today. Even though this book is not the most theologically sound, the central idea is how to combat the cultural messages of America to become powerful, spectacular and relevant.

Nouwen packs so much wisdom into so little space. These aren't cerebral facts, these are life-altering, heart-changing ideas. These are words to fuel a revolution.

Essentially, in his simple and loving manner, Nouwen tells us that we've got it all wrong and that we need to get back to the basics. "Much Christian leadership is exercised by people who do not know how to develop healthy, intimate relationships and have opted for power and control instead." This quote by Nouwen not only hits the nail on the head, it pinpoints the problem of serving God in an official capacity. Many have insulated themselves from relationships, often under the impression that they must show only their good side as a minister of the gospel; thus they wrestle alone with the sins of the flesh.

This short book attempts to refocus leaders' eyes on the basics...and the basics, as viewed here in poignant and startling clarity, take a lifetime to learn. Nouwen manages to make this all seem not only possible, but desirable. Not only helpful, but necessary. Each time my mind began to get in the way, his words brought me back to the responses of the heart.

To start and finish this book, Nouwen tells us about his mentally-handicapped friend Bill. By tucking his message between the very real love and efforts of his own life, Nouwen punctuates his words and shows us that they can, indeed, impact our own lives.

Even if it takes me 81 years to get it all figured out.