The author, Pat Alexander, has labeled the two sections with subtitles: the Old Testament as "the story of God's people" and the New Testament as "the story of Jesus and his followers."
With over 70 chapters, most of the major stories of Scripture are included. Most just 2-4 pages. Some, like the life of Daniel, include sub-stories and extend to as many as seven pages. All contain full-color illustrations by Carolyn Cox.
What I Like: The watercolor drawings are quite attractive. The do offer some white space in speckled form, similar to what you'd find with block printing, but I really liked them. They were skillfully done. This is book parallels Scripture well. Over the years I've grown wary of this publisher, having seen too many inconsistencies, inaccuracies and condescending tones of atheist skepticism in their books. This one, however, surprised me with its level of reverence and biblical consistency. It even includes biblical references (book and chapter) at the beginning of each chapter.
What I Dislike: The writing lacked a smooth flow. It often felt stilted or clipped. Also, the book ended with Paul's shipwreck (Acts 27). While this provides a solid historical account of the Apostle's life, the remaining 22 books of the New Testament, most of which were written by him, are never mentioned. I understand the difficulties of translating epistles for children, but still consider this a grand omission. If you're looking for a first introduction to Scripture, this book will fit the bill nicely. If you want a full children's Bible, this isn't it.
Overall Rating: Good.
Age Appeal: The publisher says 7-12. I feel this refers more to the reading level than the age appeal. My kids are 7 and 9 and were not interested in this book at all. I would say 4-9, depending on your child's interest and existing Bible knowledge.
Publisher Info: Lion UK, 2012; ISBN: 0745919391; Hardback; 256 pgs.; $ 12.99
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Special Info: We have reviewed a number of books by this publisher including The Lion Graphic Bible and The Lion Book of Prayers to Read & Know (both of which received our highest rating), Baby's Little Bible, and The Lion Encyclopedia of the Bible.
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