Silas on Sundays tells the story of a young child, Silas, who explores a world of possibilities each day of the week, except on Sundays. At home, Silas is free to imagine and embody different roles as a quarterback, a dancer, an astronaut, and more! But when Sunday comes around, Silas feels limited, especially by church expectations. After several humorous attempts to avoid church, Silas’s parents finally understand, leading them to a new and inclusive church that celebrates Silas’s true self. This heartfelt children’s book brings themes of acceptance, identity, and the joy of finding a supportive community.

Each weekday, Silas has a new dream or passion. Tuesday is for cheerleading, Thursday is all about karate. These imaginative scenes are alive and remind me of how my own kids play, switching roles in a snap. I loved the vibrant illustration of Silas “karate-chopping through six solid blocks of wood” on Friday, it’s over-the-top but perfect for a child’s world where anything feels possible. The story embraces Silas’s playfulness and curiosity, which feels so true to how children are experimenting with who they are or want to be.

The scenes on Sundays took me right back to childhood. Silas’s reluctance and even the inventive ways of “accidentally” skipping church were funny and heartfelt. When Silas “makes a HUGE breakfast” to delay going, it’s clever and relatable. But beneath the humor, there’s an undertone of discomfort with the structured setting of church, where Silas can’t fully express themself. As a mom, this hit home. Seeing that Silas doesn’t feel quite right in a space where expression is restricted was eye-opening and a good reminder of the need for flexibility and empathy in how we introduce traditions.

The turning point, when Silas’s parents took them to a new church, was my favorite. Silas meets Matt, who’s volunteering, and Silas finds acceptance in a church that’s open and affirming. When the new church welcomes Silas with “rainbows and toyboxes and music,” it feels liberating. And the fact that Silas finally finds joy on Sundays was moving. The illustrations here are beautiful and full of color, showing Silas’s happiness in a way words couldn’t alone.

I’d highly recommend Silas on Sundays for parents who want to discuss identity, acceptance, or finding inclusive spaces. It’s an uplifting picture book that tackles big ideas in a way that’s easy for kids to grasp. It’s heartfelt, real, and, in many ways, just the kind of story I wish I’d had growing up.

Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D7TZ9WM5