Author Diana Wilcox
The Rev. Diana Wilcox is an Episcopal priest and Rector of Christ Church in Bloomfield and Glen Ridge, New Jersey. She lives with her dog Lexi, and her two cats Katie & Lauren. This is her second book.
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Reviews
Alison Bolshoi
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent Consciousness-Raising, Inclusive Book for Girls of Any Age
Reviewed in the United States on November 26, 2019
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What a wonderful, healing, timely and inclusive book has just arrived on bookshelves. In this era of Me, Too/Time’s Up, when women’s rights are in the spotlight, Diana Wilcox’s new perspective and conversation about God as female is vital in assisting every woman and girl to find her voice and feel seen and included. Indeed, why HAS God always been referred to as male?
Due to an abusive father, I struggled terribly growing up with the idea of “God the Father.” I always felt marginalized as a young Roman Catholic female, where even today priests must be men and women are in a subservient service position as nuns. This book puts an end to a lot of feelings of marginalization. The writing is thoughtful, humorous and thought provoking.
I will be buying multiple copies to give as Christmas gifts this year to anyone I know with children. Girls will love it, and boys/men will also benefit from reading it, to change their perspective and expand their consciousness.
Elizabeth Geitz
5.0 out of 5 stars
Enlightening Antidote to Patriarchal God Language/Images in Religious Traditions
Reviewed in the United States on November 22, 2019
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“Why isn’t God a girl?” How many little and grown-up girls have asked themselves and others this very question only to be met with blank stares or unsatisfactory answers. Now there’s a beautifully written and illustrated response to this age-old question in Diana Wilcox’s debut children’s book. Join Sophy on her quest as she asks diverse people this question so important to the identity of girls and boys alike. “Why isn’t God a girl?” Well, just maybe . . . God is!
For anyone concerned about the patriarchal images and language for God that still dominate most religious services, here’s your antidote. I’ve just purchased a copy for my four-year-old granddaughter and couldn’t be more pleased. Bravo Mother Diana! We are all in your debt.
Elizabeth Geitz
Author of Gender & the Nicene Creed
and Spiritual Truth in the Age of Fake News (soon to be released)
Sol Tyler
5.0 out of 5 stars
Sweet and colourful
Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2020
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Just by looking at the image present in the cover of this book, we can perceive that the imagination of anyone who reads it will be captivated.
The story is easy to understand since it is written through the straightforward language of a girl, the main character, called Sophy and it revolves around the themes of gender and diversity, which are absorbing topics and make the right effect on both, children and adults. It also asks the question females have been asking for a while. All these themes are moving and successfully touch readers.
The book is colourful and plenty of illustrations and the narrative is short and fast-paced, written in the form of a dialogue.
After reading this story, readers will notice their relationship with themselves will be deepen. I totally recommend it to children and to those who love, have or are around them. It is also a perfect book to give someone as a gift.
Kat Denning
3.0 out of 5 stars
Who Said She Isn’t?
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2020
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This story is about Sophy, a young girl who wants to know why God is male. Along the way, she calls upon other children of different Abrahamic faiths to join her in asking the question. The question behind the story is a great one that many girls and women alike in faith seek to find an answer to, especially in the patriarchal society and faith they are born into. I thought the conclusion could have used more scripture or padding of some sort. Having grown up with a very traditionalist family, the use of “Holy Mother” instead of “Holy Father” during services would not have been accepted by many congregants. I appreciate what this book is aiming to do and like the “Who Said She Isn’t?” attitude/approach, but just felt like it needed more framing and support in a Bible and world that will continue to tell her: God is Male/Father/He/His. Even if it were just to show God as ‘in everything” alpha/omega style and humanity rather than male v female.
Mercedes Diaz
4.0 out of 5 stars
A Quick Look of Discovery and Self
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2020
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As a child’s story, this is pretty solid, the illustrations are wonderful, and the journey is informative. What I really enjoyed about this book was that the inclusivity, the exploration of additional faiths, and the question of gender prevalence weren’t thrown at you with force. It wasn’t preachy or in your face. If you’ve spent some time around young children, these questions and this line of thinking such as, “Hey, I bet that person will know…” is very natural, which I enjoyed, and it made me feel more comfortable about opening up this book with my kid.
There was one page where I laughed because of the obvious responses, the “Whoa! Gasp!” but I know that with kids, this is a primary was to emphasize the effect, and it’s fun, which made me like the book even more. The book took a bit of a turn toward the end, but again, it seemed like a very natural progression from where the story started and the journey of learning about image and God.
Rachel K
4.0 out of 5 stars
An Interesting Book That Dives Into Faith and Self-Image
Reviewed in the United States on June 28, 2020
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This book by Diana Wilcox tells the story of a young girl named Sophy who is on a mission to better understand who God is and how she is created in the image of Him. Sophy is a bit confused because she has been taught that she is made in the image of God, but He is always referred to as Father. How can this be if she’s a girl?
As your child reads this book, they’ll not only come across captivating illustrations, but will find that the book has an age-appropriate conversation about diversity, self-image, gender, and faith. In addition to this, the book is cleverly written to also help parents dig deeper into themselves with this discussion.
At 42 pages, it’s not necessarily that long of a read making it perfect for those who want something educational yet short. It’s also written in an easy-to-read style so a child could easily enjoy it by themselves.
Evelyn
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Fantastic Including Book
Reviewed in the United States on May 28, 2020
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Why Isn’t God a Girl? is written by Diana Wilcox; her job as an Episcopal priest gives her experience and adds realism to the story. It is a fast, absorbing and sweet picture book about a girl called Sophy who starts asking questions about gender and diversity.
This inclusive reading encourages listeners to take a break because it is just as important as the constant hurrying about.
It is a hilarious story for young readers who are spending time at home looking for a bedtime tale. It is clear, well narrated, really easy and quick to read. The illustrations are fantastic and captivating; the author chooses the colors very carefully to catch children’s attention.
The writing is impeccable; the characters are excellently crafted.
This is the first book written by Diana but I can’t wait to look more into what she will offer us. Undoubtedly, I will give this book five stars because it is easy to read and difficult to forget.
A Cannady
5.0 out of 5 stars
The perfect story for children of all ages who want to connect to God
Reviewed in the United States on June 23, 2020
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Why Isn’t God a Girl? by Diana Wilcox is an engaging, humorous take on a subject that can be difficult for many people, not just females, growing up and trying to see how God created us in His own image, yet we look so different from each other. Sophy is a young, curious girl who is questioning the individual traits between people’s gender and their overall diversity. In her search to understand why God is who He is and Sophy is who she is, she comes face to face with some interesting, light-hearted situations that each have a little lesson of their own to be learned. The writer is an Episcopal priest who surely has heard these questions numerous times to be able to answer them so thoroughly and engagingly for young readers. The illustrations go hand in hand with the content and all children will benefit from reading this sweet, encouraging story.
Zacian
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great modern take
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2020
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Why isn’t God a girl?: A young girl’s journey to see the image of God in herself is a must have for any young feminists who find themselves in the church. While I myself am not religious, I was raised a strict Roman Catholic and remember it being quite a struggle. I found that the entire organization of traditional church often left girls feeling second class – and this is the exact problem this book aims to tackle. I think it is written in such a way that young kids can really benefit from this book. It offers an insight I wish I had as a kid which finds a constructive way to deal with internal struggles. The stories approach also takes an incredibly liberal perspective on the topic I would have loved to see in church. Great for those looking for an eloquent read that explains the patriarchal language of religion without simply saying “because he is.”
Carlitas
5.0 out of 5 stars
Engaging and colorful book.
Reviewed in the United States on May 29, 2020
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This is a beautiful illustrative book which gives a nice message. “Why Isn’t God a Girl?: A Young girl’s journey to see the image of God In herself” was written by Diana Wilcox and it is a great read to share with children.
The plot is centered on Sophy, who is a young and curious girl. She questions herself why the Image of God is regarded as a “boy” and not as a “girl”. For this reason, she decides to ask her friends and find out about this. Sophy’s journey will show meaningful and important themes, such as religion, faith and gender.
In a nutshell, this reading is absorbing and catchy. It is short and full of beautiful drawings that engage readers, especially children. I really enjoyed it. I am giving this book 5 stars out of five because I think that it is excellent and easy to follow. I would recommend it.
Celeste L
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great family book to talk about God
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2020
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Why Isn’t God a Girl?: A young girl’s journey to see the image of God in herself by Diana Wilcox is a children’s Christian book. The story in this book revolves around a young girl named Sophy who is determined to find out why God is not a girl. I thought that this story really had a unique twist and topic for families to explore. It certainly gives families and children something to think about. This book is a perfect book for families to read together with their children to discuss the themes of the book. It opens up a lot of space for conversation. And I think it hits a question that is commonly asked by many little girls! I loved the colors of the illustrations, and I thought they did a great job visually. I think that the children will be drawn into this book by the colorful images.
Paula Garcia
5.0 out of 5 stars
Much needed openness and inclusivity
Reviewed in the United States on June 22, 2020
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“Why Isn’t God a Girl?” is the first book by Rev. Diana Wilcox, an Episcopal priest and Rector. As the title suggests, this children’s book is about a girl’s curiosity that is related to spirituality. I definitely adore how this book isn’t dogmatic, that it is inclusive and embraces the true virtue of human connectedness and love that is taught in various religions around the world. From the get-go, I appreciate that the story allows for Sophy to ask such a question and adults and children around her get equally interested to find out the answer. This is one book I would definitely keep and share with parents, teachers and kids that I work with. The illustrations by Viktoria Skakandi and Earth22 Studio are really lovely too!
Amy Williams
5.0 out of 5 stars
A fantastic children’s book about inclusiveness in the Christian faith
Reviewed in the United States on June 10, 2020
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Traditionally, the Christian faith and its many sects, factions, and beliefs have been presented as very patriarchal. Men hold more power than women, and in many cases, women are supposed to be subservient to men. This fantastic children’s book asks a very good question – why isn’t God a girl?” A young girl goes on a journey to figure out the answer. Along the way she learns that God is in everyone, and it does not matter one’s sex or faith. It’s a very inclusive approach to religion, and one that is very rarely, if ever, conveyed.
I absolutely adored this book. The illustrations were lovely, the writing was great, and the tone was very gentle and encouraging. It’s perfect for children and adults alike.
Amy Koller
4.0 out of 5 stars
Inspiring Read!
Reviewed in the United States on June 17, 2020
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“Why Isn’t God a Girl?” is a sweet and enlightening story for children. Our family opted to give this sweet story a shot after having it recommended it to us by a close family friend and mother. She insisted that it truly was a fun and inspirational read that would open the doors to a multitude of conversational opportunities with our children, and she most certainly was not wrong! “Why Isn’t God a Girl?” invokes a genuine interest and a questioning of the belief system in a way that I have not yet seen before in our kids. This book is a pleasantly sweet read that both you and your children are sure to enjoy!
Jesse Presgraves
5.0 out of 5 stars
Perfect book
Reviewed in the United States on June 11, 2020
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This book was a great adventure with perfect illustrations. It follows a young girl named Sophy who keeps hearing how she was made in the image of God, but how can that be true if God is the Father and Son? She asks a few friends from different religions if God is a girl in their religion. I think this book would be an excellent way to explain to children how they can be made in the image of God if they struggle to see it when they look in the mirror. I would recommend this to anyone who has a young child in their life who may need to hear the answer about why God isn’t a girl – “Who said she isn’t?”
Jessie H
5.0 out of 5 stars
A beautiful story for young children!
Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2020
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If you’re looking for a beautiful story with awesome illustrations, “Why Isn’t God a Girl?” is a great read to add to your child’s bookshelf. I was inspired and truly touched while reading. This book isn’t just for girls or young girls either, it truly has a powerful message for everyone saying we are all God’s children. If your child is in a Bible study, or goes to church classes I highly recommend sharing this with your pastor or parish minister. A must read for all children and their parents!
Patricia Harvey MTheol
5.0 out of 5 stars
Girls are equally well made in the image of God!
Reviewed in the United States on January 3, 2020
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Diana Wilcox presents God’s message in language easy to understand through Sophy’s story. Inclusivity is explicit. Thus it is an antidote to the patriarchy that has been imposed on a God (and Church) that is neither male nor female. We are all made in God’s image. I speak from New Zealand and this book is just as relevant here. Useful notes for Sunday School teachers and parents.
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Paula T
5.0 out of 5 stars
A must-read for “children” of all ages
Reviewed in the United States on December 23, 2019
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This a beautifully illustrated story, with a simply profound and theologically rich message for all of God’s children. I read it and was so moved, I ordered more for gifts. I shared it with our parish administrator. Her response? “Boy, I wish I had read that when I was a girl, or when my girls were younger.” It truly is a must-read and not just for girls and the not-quite-so-young female people, but for anyone who wants to understand that they are wonderfully and perfectly made.
Cheryl Restaino
5.0 out of 5 stars
Questions asked, questions heard, answers sought.
Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2019
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A beautifully illustrated book for all ages with dialogue we can all understand. Opening the eyes and hearts of children will change the world and this book is a good place to start.
tug-3
5.0 out of 5 stars
Sensitively written
Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2020
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A sweet, colorful text for children of any faith. Remarkably inclusive and sensitive. The illustrations are just marvelous.
Kindle Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars
Open your heart, mind and soul.
Reviewed in the United States on December 10, 2019
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A must read for all ages as we deepen our relationship with God and one another.
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great for all religions. I plan to use it in our Unitarian church.
Reviewed in the United States on December 19, 2019
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Loved the theme!
C. K. Zuelsdorf
5.0 out of 5 stars
Girl power!
Reviewed in the United States on February 8, 2020
Finally, a look at God with girls in mind. Wonderful and welcome!
Janie
5.0 out of 5 stars
Inclusive Book
Reviewed in the United States on February 23, 2020
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This book asks the question females have been asking for a while. It also includes multiple religions to make it an inclusive book on many levels. Reading it I was wondering just how many Sunday Schools across the country would include a book like this for children, but it seems a step in the right directio