by Laura Alary (Author), Ann Boyajian (Illustrator)
ECPA Easter Bestseller 2024!
How can we help children experience the true meaning of Lent, cultivate generosity, and prepare their hearts for Easter? Make Room by Laura Alary offers an innovative and engaging way for children to approach Lent, teaching them how to "make room" for Jesus in their everyday lives through acts of kindness, hospitality, and self-reflection.
This beautifully illustrated children's book connects everyday activities--like baking bread, having a neighbor over for dinner, or un-cluttering a room--with the story of Jesus' life, showing how these simple tasks mirror the values of justice, love, and sacrifice that Jesus lived. It's not just a book about Lent; it's an invitation to experience it with all the senses, helping children understand how to embody faith and discipleship in their own unique ways.
Unlike traditional books that simply recount the Passion narrative, Make Room thoughtfully integrates the themes of hospitality and self-giving that were central to Jesus' ministry. It invites children to wonder about the story of Lent and Easter, teaching them that this season is not just about giving up things, but about creating space in our hearts and lives for others--and for God.
Why Families Love Make Room:
- Thoughtful, accessible explanations of Lent and Easter tailored for children.
- Practical, real-life activities for children to engage with the Lenten season.
- Inspires children to think deeply about generosity, helping others, and self-giving in a fun, relatable way.
- Beautiful illustrations by Ann Boyajian that bring the story to life and help children visualize the biblical narrative.
- Encourages meaningful conversations about faith, love, and preparation for Easter.
Praise for Make Room:
- "This is a poetic, practical, and theologically wise book for children." - L. Ann Jervis, Professor of New Testament, Wycliffe College, University of Toronto.
- "Make Room helps children experience Lent with all their senses. A wonderful resource for families and Christian educators." - Rev. Olivia Stewart, Director of Children & Worship.
- "A tender and thoughtful guide to Lent for children. The perfect resource for families wanting to prepare for Easter meaningfully." - Amy Shaw, Educator.
Perfect for Sunday school, family devotionals, or bedtime reading, Make Room makes Lent a time of joyful anticipation and deep spiritual reflection. The second book in the "Circle of Wonder: Liturgical Year Resource Set," it is an essential addition to your family's Easter bookshelf.
Make Room is more than just a children's book; it's a way to help the next generation grow in their faith and understanding of the beautiful season of Lent--teaching them that, by making room for others and for God, they prepare themselves for the resurrection and new life in Christ.
Add Make Room to your Lent and Easter bookshelf today and help your children experience the true spirit of this holy season!
Enjoy the Board Book for toddlers: Make Space for Jesus: Learning About Lent and Easter Other titles in the Circle of Wonder series include: Look! A Child's Guide to Advent and ChristmasRise: A Child's Guide to Eastertide
Breathe: A Child's Guide to Ascension, Pentecost, and the Growing Season
Author Biography
Laura Alary is a writer, storyteller, and religious educator. When she was a little girl she used to make her own books out of manila paper, crayons, and mucilage. These early efforts at writing eventually gave way to academic papers and theses, as she earned degrees in Classics (B.A., Dalhousie), Theology (M.Div., Knox College, University of Toronto) and New Testament (Ph.D., University of St. Michael's College). More recently, Laura has focused on a new type of education--raising three creative and curious children. She leads workshops on everything from storytelling to biblical interpretation, teaches the occasional university course, and works with children at a local congregation. She has also returned to her early love of creating her own books, including Is That Story True? and Mira and the Big Story. Laura lives in Toronto, Canada.
Ann Boyajian is the illustrator of many books, including Samantha's Friendship Fun (in the American Girl series), More Spice Than Sugar (Houghton Mifflin), and O Say Can You See? American's Symbols, Landmarks, and Inspiring Words (Scholastic).