Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Tales of Roland Book 1: Roland Looks for God by Phyllis Wheeler is a charming Christian picture book for children aged 3-8. The story follows Roland, a curious duckling, as he embarks on a journey of discovery, appreciating the beauty of God's creations. While his siblings follow their mother to the pond, Roland pauses to admire a blue flower, sniff a green plant, and listen to the whirring bugs. His wonder and gratitude for nature are central themes, encouraging young readers to notice and appreciate the world around them. The book introduces moments of tension as Roland encounters a hungry fox and a turtle, both of whom initially see him as a potential snack. However, Roland's observations about the beauty of nature and his gentle reminders to look beyond immediate desires lead to unexpected interactions. These encounters subtly teach lessons about perspective and the importance of seeing the bigger picture.

The illustrations by Elzabeth van der Bijl are vibrant and engaging, perfectly complementing the narrative. The colorful depictions of meadows, ponds, and animals bring the story to life, making it visually appealing to young readers. Phyllis Wheeler's writing is straightforward and age-appropriate, with dialogue and descriptions that are easy for children to understand. The interactions between Roland and the other animals are engaging and provide opportunities for parents or caregivers to discuss themes of kindness, curiosity, and gratitude with their children. Through Roland's journey, children are introduced to the idea that everything around them is a gift from God. The story gently weaves this spiritual theme into the narrative without being overly didactic, making it suitable for its target audience. Tales of Roland Book 1: Roland Looks for God is a valuable resource for families seeking to instill faith-based values in their children.