Big Thoughts for Little Thinkers: The Mission

The Mission is another in the series of Big Thoughts for Little Thinkers by Joey Allen. The series was born out of a desire to expose children to systematic theology at an early age. This book features Mikey, a young Asian boy of about five years old. He wants to tell readers about God's mission. "God is at work in the world spreading His love and bringing people close to Him. You can be part of God's work in the world. That is what God's mission is all about."

Mikey explains that God wants everyone to be happy, but we've all sinned. Sin is what separates us from God. "... just like your parents look for you when you are separated from them, God looks for people who are separated from Him." Mikey goes on to say God uses people as part of His plan. These people are called missionaries. Missionaries go all over the earth to share the good news of Jesus Christ. "Jesus is the only way to Heaven, but people cannot trust in Jesus unless someone tells them about Him." Mikey tells readers that they can be God's messengers too! We can help God accomplish His plan by using the talents and skills He has given us and telling our friends about Jesus. He also encourages readers to learn more about God and His Word and help missionaries by writing them letters, praying for them and sending them presents.

What I Like: The concept. I love the idea of teaching doctrine from very young ages. The book is thorough and doctrinally sound. The entire Gospel is presented with biblical references on every page. It's age appropriate; easy for little ones to understand. I also appreciate the practical applications included. The book also features notes to parents for further discussion and best use of the text.

What I Dislike: The illustrations, while filled with color and expression, are not the best feature in the book. They remind me of the original Cambell's Soup characters. Also, while there is a picture on every page, the illustrations don't always match what is being said on that page.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-7, but my 3-year-old also enjoys it.

Publisher Info: New Leaf Press, 2005; ISBN: 0892216166; Hardback; $5.99

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Additional Info: This book provides a world view, but one page seems to assume the readers live in the United States. This is what it says: "God has told us to go to all the world and tell people about Him. Jesus is not just for people in America. He is for people in Africa, Asia and Australia, too!"

See our reviews of other books in this series.