There are books that explain the world, and there are books that ask you to look at it differently. Fingerprints of God by Melanie Burgess does the latter, not by lecturing or instructing, but by leading readers on a whimsical treasure hunt through nature’s everyday wonders.
Framed as a poetic inquiry, the book invites children to explore both the familiar and the bizarre—starfish, glass frogs, bioluminescence, wild horses, and yes, even the famously squishy blobfish. Each page poses a rhythmic, curious question that pairs scientific curiosity with spiritual reflection. The tone isn’t heavy or overreaching. Instead, it’s like listening to a thoughtful child ask why sunsets feel special or why owls look so serious. It stirs more than belief; it stirs observation.
What makes this book stand out is not just its lyrical language or vivid illustrations, but the way it blends imagination with grounded facts. Children might pause to wonder why camels don’t store water in their humps or how the Jesus lizard can run on water—and then flip to the back and find a clear, concise answer. This fusion of fact and verse gives the book a dual purpose: to delight and to inform. It respects both the reader’s wonder and their capacity to learn.
Rather than push a specific theological agenda, it reads more like an invitation to notice—the intricate, the overlooked, the ordinary-turned-extraordinary. This alone is valuable in a world where speed and efficiency often drown out attention to detail. Whether or not a reader shares the author’s spiritual beliefs, they’re likely to walk away feeling that nature has stories to tell, and maybe, just maybe, meaning layered beneath those stories.
This book is best suited for curious minds and quiet reading times—for children who ask a lot of “why” questions and adults who still do, too. It may not be a fit for those who want clinical, secular-only texts, but it doesn’t demand agreement—just curiosity.
There’s a quiet, unassuming confidence in Burgess’s work. Not in grandeur, but in how it trusts the natural world to speak volumes. You won’t find a protagonist here, or a villain, or a dramatic twist. But you might find yourself looking at a leaf, a claw, or a feathered wing a little differently. And that’s no small thing.
Excellence in Literature Award
The Excellence in Literature Award is a tribute to the timeless power of storytelling. We recognise works that transcend fleeting trends—books that resonate deeply and linger long after the final page. Whether bold and boundary-breaking or quietly powerful, these stories reflect true literary excellence.
This award encompasses a wide literary landscape—from genre fiction to poetic reflections, from contemporary gems to historical epics. At its heart, it celebrates writers who demonstrate mastery, originality, and the ability to connect with readers on a meaningful level.
We’d love to hear from you!
What are your thoughts on this piece? Share your insights in the comments below!
- What stood out to you most about this post?
- Have you read a book recently that relates to the themes discussed here?
- What’s your favorite takeaway or reflection from this write-up?
Let’s keep the conversation going—your thoughts make this space richer!
Disclaimer: The content on this site is provided for informational and inspirational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, the views expressed in reviews, articles, and recommendations are subjective and may not reflect the opinions of all readers.
We receive complimentary copies of all books we review. However, this practice does not compromise the integrity or honesty of our reviews. Every write-up reflects the contributor’s genuine impressions and critical analysis, ensuring transparency and trust with our readers.
For a complete understanding of our practices, please refer to our full Disclaimer, Privacy Policy, and Terms of Service. These documents outline how we manage your information, ensure transparency, and uphold your rights as a user.
To request for a review, to nominate your favorite book for an award, or for more details about our awards, click here.
Other Stories
Review of Things We Lost in the Fire by Mariana Enríquez
Things We Lost in the Fire is a haunting collection of short stories by Argentine author Mariana Enríquez.
Mercy Jane Porquez Ballesteros on Writing Love That Heals: The Art of Second Chances and Emotional Truths
Have you ever wondered why some people hold on to love even when every sign says let go? This interview explores that gripping question—read on to discover how Mercy unravels it through her stories.
Charlotte Chipperfield on the Art of Writing with Purpose and Presence
Have you ever wondered whether your unwritten ideas are actually shaping you more than the pages you finish? In this interview, Charlotte reveals how mindful storytelling uncovers the surprising truth.
OneTribune 
