Let There Be Light by Desmond Tutu

Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this book for the purpose of review. My integrity is not for sale. Those who know me well are aware I would relish the chance to give a bad review in exchange for a free book. If I've failed to do so, it has nothing to do with the source of the material and only with the material itself.


This is a children's book with the text taken from Desmond Tutu's Children of God Storybook Bible and the illustration done by Nancy Tillman, who's also done On the Night You Were Born and the favorite of my household, Wherever You Go, My Love Will Find You (I try to read it to my daughter every day).

The text is quite recognizable to anyone familiar with modern Bible translations, but is infused with the depth and whimsy of Archbishop Tutu's many years loving and struggling with and alongside the beloved people of his native South Africa. You won't find attempts to bring this children's work into the fights over evolution; Tutu's words focus on the purpose and beauty of God's creation in ways that illumine the mind and bring joy to the heart.

Tillman's illustrations are possibly her best work to date. Using her typical style and variety of mixed media, she brings out the vastness of the simple text, while also supplying art of pronounced subtlety, captivating the adult and child alike.

My daughter is only one and a half, but she enjoys the vivid pictures and will certainly only grow more fond of this book as she matures.

I really like this book and I hope these authors continue to collaborate on future projects.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”