Jesus Wakes the Little Girl

Jesus Wakes the Little Girl, written by Joanne Bader, is the latest in the Arch Books Bible Story Series.

This is the well-known story of Jairus’s daughter who is on her deathbed when Jairus begs Jesus to lay His hands on her and heal her. Jesus follows Jairus to his house, but along the way they receive the news that the daughter has died. Jesus tells him not to fear, but to believe.

Jesus claims to the mourners she is only sleeping and the response is, “The mourners there all laughed at Him. For they knew she was dead. They’d all been right inside the house- Some very near her bed.”

The miracle occurs when Jesus tells the girl to arise and instructs her parents to give her some food. Jairus’s daughter is alive and healed!

This story illustrates the awesome power of God and the awesome power of faith. It also presents an opportunity to talk with children about how Christians should not fear death, but instead look to eternity. The relevant scripture verses are stated on the title page. The boldly-colored illustrations of Michelle Dorencamp are touching and convey the characters' emotions well.

What I Like: The ending note to parents on extending the lesson is wonderful. I liked how the story is summarized on the last page by saying, "As Jesus rose from His own death, We, too will rise someday. And we will go to heaven with Him Who took our sins away."

What I Dislike: The rhyme seemed forced in a few sentences. This book also omits the woman who is healed when she touches the robe of Jesus during the trip to Jairus’s home.

Overall Rating: Very Good

Age Appeal: Reading Level: Grade 3; Interest Level: Ages 5 to 9.

Publisher Info: Arch Books, 2009; ISBN: 978-0-7586-1615-9; Paperback $2.49.

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