Nila’s Perfect Coat
by Norene Paulson & Maria Mola
Beaming Books
Release Date – February 7 2023 (eARC – see disclaimer)
I might be side-eyeing the publisher just a little because they’re kind of one of those weird Christian publishers (1), but nothing religious or sectarian made it into this book at least. Even in the section at the end suggesting things kids can do, they mention “faith organizations” rather than “churches”, and the charity they suggest is secular.
I think they handled the topic thoughtfully and sensitively. Thrift store shopping is presented as something enjoyable rather than shameful. This is important because when Nila gives a second-hand coat to another girl, it’s one she wanted for herself and not a distressed cast-off. Additionally, Nila isn’t given special praise for her compassion, nor is Lily the object of pity. Sympathy yes, but not pity. I also appreciated that the mom in the story makes sure to check with Lily’s parents rather than assume the gift is wanted and to avoid embarrassment. These are subtle things, but it’s important when teaching children about charity to emphasize the dignity of all involved, most especially the recipients.
I found the art a little muted and indistinct at times. It wasn’t bad, but I found myself wishing it were a little brighter. It didn’t help that I’d just read a more technicolor book before this one.
Overall it’s a nice enough book, although I’m not sure how engaging children will actually find it.
(1) The US publishing market has piles of Christian publishing firms. It’s hard to avoid them. Some of them are perfectly alright! Some are a little weird. Some are just outright bigoted.
Jacket Summary: Nila and her mom love shopping at the thrift store. But when Nila finds the most perfect, shiny, puffy coat, Mom says no: Nila’s winter coat still fits her just fine. With a lot of determination and some birthday money from Dad, Nila sets out to prove the coat really is perfect–but along the way, learns maybe it’s perfect for someone else. Someone who needs both a coat and a friend.
An engaging and accessible story about having enough and helping others in need.
The standard disclaimer applies – I received an advanced review copy of this book for free via a US Book show giveaway.
Beaming Books is an imprint of 1517 Media, the publishing division of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Jacket Summary: Nila and her mom love shopping at the thrift store. But when Nila finds the most perfect, shiny, puffy coat, Mom says no: Nila’s winter coat still fits her just fine. With a lot of determination and some birthday money from Dad, Nila sets out to prove the coat really is perfect–but along the way, learns maybe it’s perfect for someone else. Someone who needs both a coat and a friend.
An engaging and accessible story about having enough and helping others in need.
The standard disclaimer applies – I received an advanced review copy of this book for free via a US Book show giveaway.
Beaming Books is an imprint of 1517 Media, the publishing division of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
What We've Been Reading 