Written in 2001 by songwriter Peter Mayer, “Blue Boat Home” is a song that is beloved among Unitarian Universalists. Touching upon themes that include respect for the earth and humanity alike, the song reflects UU shared values – interdependence, transformation, generosity, and more — while also radiating the love that centers UUs and their communities. 

According to his website, the Minnesota-based Mayer “writes songs for a small planet—songs about interconnectedness and the human journey—songs about life on earth and the mysterious and wondrous fact of our existence. He also writes songs about dress hats, pumpkins and pajamas, and other important stuff.” Mayer, who has recorded 11 albums, has been writing for more than 30 years – artists like Kathy Mattea, David Wilcox, Ronny Cox, and Anne Hills have all performed his songs. 

The In Good Faith blog had a chance to chat with Mayer about the new children’s book of the same name he authored, which was recently published by Skinner House Books. 

What were your first thoughts when Skinner House approached you about a picture book for Blue Boat Home? What were your hopes about what ideas and feelings the word and illustrations would evoke? 

I was very excited! I’ve never been part of a book project before, and was very honored that Skinner House wanted to do this.

I hope that the book communicates not only a sense that the earth really is a small place and that we are all here together as part of one family of life, but also that we are on a grand adventure together, a journey of discovery in our universe which is so unimaginably immense and magnificent.

What do you feel are the most important messages in the song, for Unitarian Universalists and non-UUs alike? 

These days when so much of our national and global politics feels toxic and divisive, it’s wonderful to see Sue Todd’s beautiful illustrations showing the people of the world experiencing joy together, and celebrating the magic and wonder of their existence on this planet.

I think that sense of global community is so important today, as well as remembering the magic and beauty all around us, in the midst of the challenges we face.

An adult and child who seem to have a close relationship move through all of the illustrations. How do you think this enhances the emotional impact of the book and its spiritual message more than a single primary character would? 

I really liked the idea of a child as a primary character throughout the book, as I had seen in Sue Todd’s previous work. But it was Mary Benard at Skinner House who offered the idea of the adult and child. Thank you, Mary— I think it’s perfect!

There’s something so touching about seeing them walking hand in hand throughout the book. I think it evokes the love we have for our children, a sense of hope and the importance of passing along a living planet to future generations. It also reminds me of the fact that we are not alone on this journey…we always have each other to share in our questions, our struggles and our joys.

“Blue Boat Home,” written by Peter Mayer with illustrations by Sue Todd, is available for purchase at inSpirit: UU Book and Gift Shop.