Book Review of For the Beauty of the Earth
The Children’s Book Review

Written by Folliot S. Pierpoint

Illustrated Lucy Fleming

Ages 4-8 | 32 pages

Publisher: Sparkhouse Family | ISBN: 9781506421834

 What to expect: Music, Hymn, poetry, family, faith

This gorgeously illustrated rendition of Folliot S. Pierpoint’s famous hymn, For the Beauty of the Earth, brings light and joy to a new generation.

            “For the beauty of the Earth,
            For the glory of the skies,
            For the love which from our birth
            over and around us lies;”

Pierpoint’s hymn, published in 1864, has been a beloved classic for generations. With illustrator Lucy Fleming’s delightful illustrations, the hymn comes alive for today’s children. Peaceful natural landscapes are filled with tiny details and sweeping, grand vistas evocative of the hymn. Each page brings a new part of the music to life. Families of diverse groupings enjoy time together around campfires, walking in the snow, or simply sitting on the front doorstep enjoying the morning sun. I especially appreciated how the beauty of all the Earth was illustrated – even in small moments, like sitting on the front porch.

Fleming’s positioning of these small moments, along with her grand landscapes, gives the impression that both are equally beautiful and important. And with a range of ethnicities and races, these inclusive illustrations draw all children into the beauty and serenity of the hymn’s words.

There is also sheet music for the original song at the back of the book, so families can learn the song and sing along while reading. It’s a thoughtful inclusion for those who might have forgotten the music, or who have never heard it before.

This colorful and well-thought-out book would be a fantastic gift for a holiday or religious occasion, for either a whole family or a young child. With smooth, peaceful rhythms perfect for bedtime or family storytimes, FOR THE BEAUTY OF THE EARTH is sure to become a treasured book.

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About the Author

Folliott Sandford Pierpoint (1835:1917) was an English hymnist, poet, and teacher. For the Beauty of the Earth is his most famous hymn.

About the Illustrator

Lucy Fleming has been an avid doodler and bookworm since early childhood. She lives and works in a small town in England with her partner and a little black cat.

For the Beauty of the Earth, written by Folliott Sandford Pierpoint and illustrated by Lucy Fleming, was reviewed by Denise Mealy. Discover more books like For the Beauty of the Earth by following our reviews and articles tagged with hymn, poetry, family, and faith.