Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #506064 in Books
• Published on: 1982-11
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 32 pages

Customer Reviews

Answers THAT question from a child
Many children ask, in various ways, the meaning of life. And, as adults, we stutter and try to cough out some semblance of a meaningful answer that the child will understand. When my daughter was three, she literally asked, "Why are we here?" I had no idea how to answer.

Almost on cue, we read this book a week later, and it answered the question perfectly. This is the story of a woman named Miss Rumphuis. As a child, she sat on her grandfather's knee and posed the very question as my daughter. His answer was one of the most simple, yet meaningful that I've ever read. I can't imagine anyone in this world arguing against it, no matter what religion (or non-religion), political persuasion, or culture.

The answer provides the impetus as to how Miss Rumphuis led the rest of her life – a rich one indeed. The story is wonderful for children, yet quite thought-provoking for adults.

This book may appear to be nothing more than a lovely illustrated child's book containing a heartfelt tale. Without a doubt, the illustrations are rich; Ms. Cooney is an extremely talented woman. However, I also believe its message (which is never, ever preachy) is extremely powerful. As such, it is my favorite children's book, and I think every child (and adult) on this earth should read it.