The Blessings Jar: A Story About Being Thankful

The first picture book from Christian fiction author Coble (Secretly Smitten) weaves a story around the concept of gratitude as a cure for “the grumpies.” Seeing Punky Grace sad that her sick friend can’t play, her grandmother suggests that they “go on an adventure today and try to fill the jar with things that remind us of God’s blessings.” Throughout the day, Punky finds items to add to the jar: a ballet slipper, shell, leaf, cookie cutter, and bookmark, all symbolizing moments of happiness, which her grandmother helps her recognize as gifts from God. Harry’s (Foxes in the Snow) pastel-hued illustrations vary from close-ups of Punky and Grammy hugging to expansive scenes of a walk on the beach. On some spreads, distinct bubbles depict a series of images, such as Punky jumping in leaves and playing with her dog. At the end of the day, Punky says, “Know what, Grammy? I was so busy looking for blessings today that I lost my grumpies.” Predictable but comforting, this story may inspire some readers to emulate Punky’s jar-filling adventure. Ages 2–5. (July)