365 Great Bible Stories: The Good News of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation

365 Great Bible Stories: The Good News of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation, written by Carine Mackenzie, actually has 366 stories. The final installment ties all the themes and stories of the book together by highlighting the Bible as the inspired word of God.

Each page contains the following:
* Heading- gives a title for each story and a Scripture reference.
* Story- one page in length, approximately 250 words.
*Picture- illustrated by David Lundquist, most about the size of a credit card, realistic and accurate.
*Thinking point or prayer- red text, usually a few brief but poignant sentences in length that reinforce the main idea of that day’s story.

In addition, the book offers a unique feature: Readers can flip through it to locate stories associated with a key Biblical theme. These stories are easily identified by finding certain images, which are as follows:
* Lamb - Jesus Christ and Salvation
* Winding Road - Traveling and Journeys
* Open Scroll - God's Word* Sword - Wars and Battles
* Dove - The Holy Spirit

The author selects stories from both the Old and New Testament with care. In easy to understand and concise wording, each one helps the reader understand the history of the Christian faith and it’s most important doctrines. The book itself is divided into six segments, or chapters. It places the Old Testament stories into three groups. It likewise divides the New Testament stories into three groups.

The hardcover book also features a slender blue bookmark, just like you might find in a regular Bible.

Here is an example of a thinking point based on a story about Hezekiah trusting in God: “When we have a problem it is best to take it to God in prayer and ask him for help.”

Here is an example of prayer that follows the Beatitude passage in Matthew: “Ask the Lord God that you will know these special blessings from him and value them.”

What I Like: I found the stories to be both straight to the point and Biblically sound. They hold a certain “richness” that make interesting. Not only that, The format lends itself well to kids of all ages. Younger kids can read a page a day without getting the wiggles. Older children can read several pages in one sitting if they like. The book could also be used for family devotions. The thinking point serves as a great springboard for discussion.

What I Dislike: Nothing. However, remember these are brief stories. Parents may want to read the full story from Scripture for themselves first so they can provide background or more details to their children.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 4-12

Publisher Info: Christian Focus, 2011; ISBN: 978-1845505400; Hardcover, 384 pgs., $19.99
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