You're Here for a Reason (Nancy Tillman Collection)

"Even the smallest of things that you do blossom and multiply far beyond you...You're here for a reason. It's totally true. You're part of a world that is counting on you. So don't be too worried if some days fall flat. Good things can happen, even from that...You're here for a reason. If you think you're not, I would just say that perhaps you forgot- a piece of the world that is precious and dear would surely be missing if you weren't here. If not for your smile and your laugh and your heart, this place we call home would be minus a part."- Nancy Tillman, "You're Here for a Reason." I really can't say it to either of my children any better then that, although I do say those things in my own way as often as I can. I bought a few of her books this week because I absolutely fell in love with the sheer beauty and eloquence of her prose in another of her books. Though I think this way of both of my children, this is a book I specifically want my son to internalize some day. Because he really loves animals, and she illustrates with them in each of her books I've seen thus far, I am hoping in time he will come to accept them. For my sweet angel daughter, she will be surrounded by others who will tell her these messages. But for my beautiful son, who has significant disabilities, the world may rarely tell him these things. We are often in such a rush to applaud certain things as greatness, that it might be easy to overlook the smaller things, like today, when I took out the trash and forgot to line the can. And my sweet little son climbed in the closet, pulled out a trash bag, and quietly handed it to me. Because he is the one who I fear will so often be overlooked, he is the one I feel may most desperately need the kinds of messages in this book. It is another beautifully written book, with a powerful message of affirmation of worth, even in the smallest of actions. Even in something so simple as loosing a ball or a kite (paraphrased from the book), because those things may go on to be loved by someone else. This is a beautiful book that celebrates efforts that may not be considered great, but are still meaningful no matter how small. And I love that.

This is the first of Nancy Tillman's books I got- one for my grandson and one for me- Her books rcommended for ages up to 5 years old- personally I think are great for any age. Our hearts and souls most often need her Wisdom messages(reminders) of what comes through these sweet books- I plan on buying more-for my grandson and whoever might come to mind - like for me-

Bought this for a baby shower gift, as the new mom wanted books instead of cards - good idea to start a baby/child mini library. Very nice read, makes a good a book for adults too that may need a bit of encouragement.

Wonderful affirming message told with beautiful verse and lovely illustrations. My children, - grandchildren and nieces/nephews have loved this book ( ages 4 - 10). My husband reads it to patients at work - ages 18 - 60.

I've purchased several of these and include one in the gift for every baby shower I attend. It's short and "rhyme-y" enough to keep a toddler's attention but still conveys a great message to kids. The writing structure is similar to that of a Dr. Seuss book. It also comes as a board book which is always my preference with little ones since they hold up much better than paperbacks. I've read this to so many children I can recite it from memory at this point, but I'll still continue to buy copies as gifts.

I received this book for my birthday. The message of the story is complemented and accentuated by the message of the illustrations. I read the book through twice, mainly concentrating on the words, which are so encouraging, but then paid more attention to the illustrations the third time through. The illustrations add a visual dimension that accentuates the words. And the message, that I am here on this earth and in the lives of the people around me for a reason, brought tears to my eyes. I have given a copy to each of my daughters and my nephew's on their birthdays this year. I highly recommend this book to adults and especially for the children in their lives.

I chose this card for Elephant Day greetings, and it was perfect for my use. Great quality, received quickly, exactly as listed. I'm pleased with my purhcase.

This is a wonderful book in so many ways- beautiful illustrations, calming rhyme and a powerful message. Perfect as a gift to parents/children, but with a message that’s applicable to adults as well. We ARE all here for a reason and sometimes we get so caught up in our busy, technology-driven lives, we forget how important we are and how our simple acts of kindness can change the world. I love reading this book to my children (caution- may cause tears of love to stream down your face), and it should be on every child’s bookshelf.

Que libro tan tierno! Esta muy bonito lo que dice y el mensaje que enseña. Nos encanta!

Another one of my favourite books by one of my favourite children's authors--Nancy Tillman. A beautiful versed book that is ideal for a new baby keepsake--I got one for my grandson. It would also be a beautiful and heartwarming gift for a baby born with special needs. I like to give this at baby showers.

Beautiful message for little ones. The illustrations are lovely too. The book itself is perfect thick card for little hands that would otherwise rip paper pages

for reading to my Grandchild.

Storia bellissima. Regalato a mia figlia.