Child of Wonder

By Marty Haugen, Stephen Nesser (Illustrator)

Explore the sacredness of life through global childhood rituals and vibrant illustrations.

32 pages

$16.95Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In 'Child of Wonder,' a baptismal song becomes a global journey. Composer Marty Haugen's lyrics celebrate life's sacredness, while artist Stephen Nesser's illustrations depict childhood rituals from diverse cultures. As communities form through play, families are invited to sing along with a free song download. What unites us in our shared humanity?

From the publisher

Bestselling composer Marty Haugen’s “Child of Wonder,” written for the baptism of his godson, celebrates the sacredness of human life and childhood. Now in this wonderful book, artist Stephen Nesser illuminates the lyrics with scenes of childhood rituals from faith traditions and cultures around the world, who play together to form community. These vibrant illustrations are a perfect complement to Marty’s inspired poetry. Included with the volume is a link to a free mp3 download of the song, as well as the full notation of “Child of Wonder” for families that wish to sing along.

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Reading age: 5–7
Audience: Picture

Themes & topics

Books about community Books about family Books about music Books about new babies Books about belonging

Good to know

Stories behind the story

Where did you originally get the idea for Child of Wonder?

Marty wrote the song as a gift to his Godson's baptism. The song has spread throughout churches as a welcoming song during baptisms. When Marty asked me to illustrate his lyric song he said he wanted it to be about welcoming babies into community. By Stephen Nesser (illustrator)

Were there any pivotal changes that your story/illustrations underwent throughout the writing/editing process?

Marty's song is an ode to all children, but I wanted to illustrate one child, and so the first child in the book became my main character, who slowly builds up a community of other children to share in play and wonder. By Stephen Nesser (illustrator)

What guides or references did you use while creating the illustrations for Child of Wonder?

I researched baptism, baby naming and baby welcoming ceremonies from around the world. By Stephen Nesser (illustrator)

What part of creating Child of Wonder did you most enjoy?

The magic of watching a white sheet of paper turn into a world. By Stephen Nesser (illustrator)

What would you say is the primary message of Child of Wonder?

I've illustrated the world I want to live in, a world of love, community, and hope that celebrates each child regardless of where they come from or who their parents are. By Stephen Nesser (illustrator)

For readers who can't stop at one