‘A Very Big Problem’ explores the expansiveness of God’s love

The message for children 3-7: Everybody has something to contribute

by Flyaway Books | Special to Presbyterian News Service

LOUISVILLE — “A Very Big Problem,” a brand-new picture book by co-authors Amy-Jill Levine and Sandy Eisenberg Sasso and illustrator Annie Bowler, is now available. It’s been published by Flyaway Books, an imprint affiliated with Westminster John Knox Press.

Ideal for children ages 3-7, the picture book takes place in the first garden in the world. Inside the book, various characters ranging from Rain and Earthworms to Birds and Children are all competing for God’s love. Each character thinks they are the best and are therefore loved the most until they are reminded that God’s love is big enough for everyone and that without one another, there would be no garden at all.

The book offers a message about the expansiveness of God’s love and explains that everyone has something to contribute and is equally valuable. “A Very Big Problem” features colorful artwork packed with details to explore and an informational note for parents and educators.

 In a recent review Kirkus Reviews said the book is “a well-crafted story of cooperation and sharing within the context of the biblical story of Creation.”

 “A Very Big Problem” is now available for purchase wherever books are sold.

About Amy-Jill Levine 

Amy-Jill Levine, the author of numerous acclaimed books, is University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies, Mary Jane Werthan Professor of Jewish Studies, and Professor of New Testament Studies at Vanderbilt Divinity School and College of Arts and Science. “Who Counts?” and “The Marvelous Mustard Seed,” the first two titles in her parables series cowritten with Sandy Eisenberg Sasso, were named Junior Library Guild Selections.

About Sandy Eisenberg Sasso

Sandy Eisenberg Sasso is the Director of Religion, Spirituality and the Arts Initiative at Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis (IUPUI) Arts and Humanities Institute, as well as Rabbi Emerita of Congregation Beth-El Zedeck. Her many children’s books include “Who Is My Neighbor?”, “The Marvelous Mustard Seed,” and “Who Counts?”, all cowritten with Amy-Jill Levine, and the classic “God’s Paintbrush.” For more information, visit www.allaboutand.com.

About Annie Bowler

Annie Bowler’s debut picture book is “A Very Big Problem” by Amy-Jill Levine and Sandy Eisenberg Sasso. Her work has been recognized by the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, 3×3 Illustration, and the Society of Illustrators. She lives in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit www.anniebowler.com.

About Flyaway Books

Flyaway Books is a picture book program dedicated to themes of diversity, inclusivity, compassion and kindness. Visit www.flyawaybooks.com for more information.