“The life of every human being is sacred as the creation of God and is of infinite value because He created each person, including the unborn child.”

So said Blessed Teresa of Calcutta.

Respecting the sacredness of life, from conception to natural death, should be the work of children as well as grown-ups.

A well-chosen book or two can guide kids in discovering that “all God’s children have a place in the choir.”

This month’s selections affirm that, no matter who we are — a baby in the womb, a boy or girl with special needs, the target of bullies or an elderly great-grandparent — we are loved by God and worthy of respect.

Angel in the Waters

written by Regina Doman

illustrated by Ben Hatke

Sophia Institute Press, 2004

48 pages, $6.95

To order: (800) 888-9344

sophiainstitute.com

“In the beginning, I was.” Thus begins the narrated journey of a child’s life from conception through birth. Told from a first person perspective, the yet-unborn baby chronicles the mysteries and wonders of pre-natal development — the joys of “swimming” in the womb, the comfort of being surrounded by a mother’s love, the ever-present care of a guardian angel. Birth brings more wonders as the baby emerges into the world and settles into family life. Beautiful illustrations and powerful words deliver a strong message: Life begins at conception and unborn babies are real, live people with destinies to fulfill. Although perfect for children, parents and all pro-life advocates will also treasure this book. All ages.

Dear Baby: Letters from Your Big Brother

written by Sarah Sullivan

illustrated by Paul Meisel

Candlewick, 2005

32 pages, $14.99

Available in bookstores

Mike is so excited to be a big brother that he decides to make a special book for his new baby sister, Erica. Presented in scrapbook form, this book contains a series of letters, drawings and photos that give a kid’s-eye view of life with a new sibling. Mike’s letters cover the anticipation of Erica’s birth, some hints of sibling rivalry, and the joy and responsibility that come with being a big brother. The inclusion of a sonogram and letters to unborn Erica send a subtle, yet powerful reminder that babies are people and a part of the family from the moment they are conceived. Great pick for siblings and siblings-to-be. Ages 3 to 8.

Be Good to Eddie Lee

written by Virginia Fleming

illustrated by Floyd Cooper

Philomel, 1993

32 pages, $16.99

Available in bookstores

Christie knows that Eddie Lee is different and finds him to be a bit of a pest and a tag-along. But Mama reminds her that she must be good to Eddie Lee, because “that’s the way God made him.” In this engaging story, Christie discovers not only a new side of Eddie Lee, but also a new capacity for friendship. The soft illustrations and sensitively rendered text clearly show the challenge that Eddie Lee faces with Down syndrome, while at the same time demonstrating the joy that he finds in the simple pleasures of life. Ages 3 to 8.

Ian’s Walk: A Story about Autism

written by Laurie Lears

illustrated by Karen Ritz

Albert Whitman, 2003

32 pages, $6.95

Available in bookstores

Having a little brother tag along on the way to the park can be frustrating under any circumstances. For Julie and Tara, the trip is all the harder because Ian is autistic. Ian hears things differently. He feels things differently. He reacts differently. He sometimes embarrasses Julie (“Stop that! I say. “You look silly!”). When Ian wanders off, Julie realizes just how much she loves him. She squeezes her eyes shut and tries to think like Ian. Her familiarity with Ian’s “world” leads her to him. A compassionate look at the effects of autism not only on Ian but also his siblings. Ages 7 to 12.

Say Something

written by Peggy Moss

illustrated by Lea Lyon

Tilbury House, 2004

32 pages, $16.95

Available in bookstores

“For the kids who get teased, because you are not alone,” the author dedicates this book. “And for the kids who speak up, because you make all the difference.” A young girl sees other kids hurting, teasing and ignoring classmates. She never joins in and, in fact, goes out of her way to avoid being mean. (“I don’t laugh. I don’t say anything.”) It’s when these fickle bullies turn against her that she realizes it’s just not enough to keep silent. Kid-sensible ways to halt hate and restore respect are recommended following this realistic and engaging story. Ages 7 to 12.

Now One Foot, Now the Other

written and illustrated by Tomie dePaola

Putnam, 2005

32 pages, $14.99

Available in bookstores

When Bobby was a baby, his loving grandfather taught him how to walk — first one foot, then the other. When his grandfather suffers a stroke, Bobby becomes the teacher. He coaxes his grandfather with the same loving approach he benefited from years before. This updated version of dePaola’s classic sports new, brightly colored illustrations and provides a wonderful celebration of intergenerational relationships. A terrific reminder of the dignity of life for both young and old. Ages 3 to 8.

What’s Happening to Grandpa?

written by Maria Shriver

illustrated by Sandra Speidel

Little, Brown and Company, 2004

48 pages, $15.95

Available in bookstores

Kate’s grandparents mean the world to her. When her grandfather starts repeating himself, getting irritated and even forgetting Kate’s name, she asks her mother what is wrong. Her mom explains that Grandpa has Alzheimer’s disease. Kate worries about what will happen to him. “One day he probably won’t know who we are,” Kate’s mom explains. “That’s why it’s so important to cherish who he is today.” Kate helps her grandfather put together a scrapbook with photos that remind him of the past and will always remind Kate of her love for him. Ages 7 to 12.

Patricia A. Crawford writes from Winter Park, Florida.

Kerry Crawford writes from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.