From the Publisher

2005 Logos Bookstores Award winner for Best Children's Book

With lighthearted illustrations and a sweet, reflective tone, best-selling author Karen Kingsbury encourages parents to savor not only their children's "firsts"--like first steps and first words--but the "lasts" as well. With the tenderness of a mother speaking directly to her child, Karen reminds us not to miss last days of kindergarten and last at bats in Little League amidst the whirlwind of life. Adapted from a poem in Rejoice, mothers and grandmothers everywhere will identify with the tenderhearted reflections in Let Me Hold You Longer. An ideal gift book for special occasions from baby showers to graduations. Now includes a bonus CD read by Karen!

Children's Literature

There are special occasions for bringing back memories, such as during important celebrations or while lingering with family and friends. For parents, grandparents, and other close members in a family, this extraordinary picture book helps pinpoint a child's "lasts," those incredible moments when a boy or girl achieves a proud feat in academics or sports, when a scared kid cuddles on your lap for the last time as thunder and lightning pierce the night, or for any number of "lasts" that we may not have properly documented. In an age of digital media, such unique moments can easily be captured on the spot. However, do any of us think about it at the time? How do you recognize and know that a particular moment is indeed the last time your child will say or do something? Not to worry. No matter your age, this is an excellent way to include your own family in remembering poignant "lasts" that we all experience. Simple poetry sings to our hearts, resonating with the many wonders of childhood which somehow transforms every individual into adulthood. Time may drag on when kids are little, but suddenly it speeds up in a flurry of connections, milestones, responsibilities, distractions, and related sentiments. Children seem to grow up too fast in more ways than one as technology sweeps through every aspect of daily lives. In spite of today's modern hectic pace, the author helps to recall "precious, simple moments and bright flashes from your past," directly speaking to one specific child who may be mine or yours. Kingsbury focuses on another important theme: "I want to hold on longer." If we could actually pinpoint any of the "lasts," we would indeed hold on much longer. She then closes with,"Let me hold on longer, God, to every precious last" as the infant passes through childhood and goes to college as a young adult. Lyrical rhyme flows on every page while large, engaging color illustrations provide lovely personal memories for readers. This author definitely shares from her heart. She tells about her youngest son Austin in a note at the beginning of the book when he jumped into her arms to whisper, "I love you, Mommy." Was that the last time? No, but it soon will be. Since she has six children, she knows how quickly youngsters grow up and that special moments will be treasured for generations. This read-aloud will also be a generous gift for anyone who has someone they want to remember over the years in a very touching way. Reviewer: Susan Treadway, M.Ed.

Product Details

• Read a Sample Chapter

Read a Sample Chapter

Let Me Hold You Longer

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

Chapter One

The last time that I held a bottle to your baby lips, The last time that I lifted you and held you on my hip.

The last night when you woke up crying, needing to be walked. When last you crawled up with your blanket, wanting to be rocked.

The last time when you ran to me, still small enough to hold. The last time that you said you'd marry me when you grew old. Precious, simple moments and bright flashes from your past- Would I have held on longer if I'd known they were your last?

One last adventure to the park, your final midday nap, The last time when you wore your favorite faded baseball cap.

I never said good-bye to all your yesterdays long passed. So what about tomorrow- will I recognize your lasts?

The last time that you talk to me about your hopes and dreams. The last time that you wear a jersey for your high school team.

I've watched you grow and barely noticed seasons as the pass. If I could freeze the hands of time, I'd hold on to your lasts.

For come some bright fall morning, you'll be going far away. College life will beckon in a brilliant sort of way. One last hug, one last good-bye, one quick and hurried kiss. One last time to understand just how much you'll be missed. I'll watch you leave and think how fast our time together passed.

(Continues...)

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Excerpted from Let Me Hold You Longer by Karen Kingsbury Copyright © 2004 by Karen Kingsbury . Excerpted by permission.
All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
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