Animals of the Bible

Animals of the Bible, written by Mary Hoffman and illustrated by Jackie Morris, talks about many animals of the Bible, including lions, whales, snakes, and sheep. But, the author doesn’t just describe the animals, she relates a story from the Bible about each animal (or animal group). For instance, when she talks about lions, she tells the story of Daniel in the lion’s den; when she talks about sheep, she tells the story of Jacob and his sheep. The author included a page to the end of the book called “About the Stories.” She gives Bible references for each story included in the text.

Watercolor paintings are used for the illustrations. Some of them fill an entire page with an overflow onto the page either before or after it; others are used as borders on the pages.

What I like: I like the way the author tells the stories of why each animal is an important part of the Bible. The author also uses colorful language to tell the stories, making them easy for little ones to understand. I also like the illustrations; the watercolor pictures are beautiful.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: The publisher suggests ages 4-8 as the intended audience. This age group would enjoy having the book read to them. But, because the book is a storybook, not just a book of pictures of animals, older children would enjoy reading the book by themselves.

Publishing Info: Phyllis Fogelman Books, 2003; ISBN 0803728425; Hardcover, $16.99.

Buy now at Amazon $6.99.

Special Info: Visit the author's or illustrator's website.