Manny & the Garden of Gratitude: When You Want to Complain

Manny the mole is basically the male version of a Debbie Downer—he want’s what he wants and complains the second things don’t go his way. Whether the weather is too hot or too cold, or he doesn’t like what his mom made for dinner, he always has a hard time finding something to be grateful for. When a big storm hits, the tensions and complaints build up, which really ramps up the pacing of the story. But seeing Manny’s transformation from grumbling to gratitude gives such a gentle, satisfying ending. I love how this story highlights our need for grateful hearts. Complaining really just shows lack of trust in God and only brings everyone else down. On the flip side, being grateful shows that we trust God to provide for us—not just when we get what we want, but also when we don’t. Manny’s parents are very patient with him, which I really appreciate. Even when Manny gets disrespectful, ungrateful, or rude, they use those moments as teaching opportunities and lead by example. The “gratitude garden”—where you paint stones with things you’re grateful for—is such a fun, meaningful project for families to do together! Plus, the book includes helpful tips for parents at the back, along with a page of sturdy, perforated Bible verse cards. They’re perfect to slip into your child’s back pocket, lunch box, or bookbag, for those moments they might lean toward complaining. This book is a heartwarming read that will inspire both kids and parents to choose joy and thankfulness every day. #CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. My honest opinions and thoughts—not influenced by anyone.

A gripping story is paired with cute animals, amazing theology, and wise, biblical counsel on the topic of complaining. Through Manny, kids (and honestly adults, too) are given an example of someone realizing how kind and faithful God is even in the midst of tragedy and how to move from complaining to gratitude. The illustrations are vibrant and full of life. Kids will love finding the human objects the animals use in goofy ways. Back matter provides further practical and biblical help for adults navigating complaining with kids.

At some point in your life, you've probably been like Manny—dissatisfied and making sure everyone knows it! In Manny's opinion, the food is too icky, the work is too dirty, and the weather is too warm. But after Manny has a nightmare in which his friends and family are gone, he wakes up with a new appreciation for the many blessings God has given him. After the story, the book includes suggestions for helping children (and adults) "move from grumbling to gratitude." It also includes tear-out cards with Bible verses that encourage thankfulness. Characters from other books in the Good News for Little Hearts series make appearances, and Joe Hox's illustrations enhance the story without distracting from its biblical message. If you like seasonal books, this one is being released just in time for Thanksgiving.