Our Favorite "First" Bibles

Tanya, Beverly, and I are all moms of little ones, and we often find ourselves overwhelmed by the choices in children's Bibles these days. (When I was a kid - way back when! - all the kids I knew had the same children's Bible. I think it was the only one in print.)

To help you sort through all the choices, we thought we'd post a bit about what our favorite "first" Bibles for infants and toddlers are, and why we love them.

Kristina: There are three "first" Bibles I recommend, but one isn't technically a Bible at all. It's Little One's Bible Verses by Stephen Elkins. This sturdy, padded board book is perfect for introducing infants to God's word. Each page features a sweet illustration (featuring babies, small children, and animals) accompanied by a short verse from the Psalms. My daughter loved this book from the time she was an infant - and now that she's two, she has many verses memorised. Please read my full review here.

For toddlers, I highly recommend The Busy Bible. This is a handmade "quiet time" book devoted entirely to Bible stories. You can zip open the big fish's mouth to discover Jonah, take animals in and out of Noah's ark, learn the days of creation with fun flaps, help the good Samaritan put bandages on the wounded man, snap fish out of the sea and put them in Peter's net, and much more! My daughterbegs to play with this Bible. Please read my entire review here.

For kids who are ready for a Bible storybook, there are several good choices, but my favorites are The Big Picture Bible Storybook by David Helm and The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd Jones. Tanya will tell you more about the first book. The second book is similar in concept: It covers the Bible in such a way that we see everything in the Good Book points to Jesus. Now that my girl is a little older, we alternate between The Jesus Storybook Bible and The Big Picture Bible Storybook, and I'm sure she really is getting the "big picture" about the Bible, God, and Jesus. Please read my entire review of The Jesus Storybook Bible, here.

Tanya: Choosing a first Bible is tough! Infants don't understand much and the Bible is complex. Throw in some tiny hands and destructive teeth and the choice becomes even more difficult. You want accuracy, but you also want it to be age-appropriate. The details are not always as important as the point. The two Bibles I've chosen to highlight are actually story Bibles.

First, for infants and toddlers, I recommend My Bible Storybook, part of the God Counts! series. It's a stong boarbook with great content. Each of the 10 stories is accented with die-cut pictures and 3-D plastic images, fun for busy, tactile learners. Read my full review here.

Once the kids pass the infant stage, my favorite Bible is The Big Picture Story Bible. Rather than bogging down busy minds with details of all the different stories of the Bible, this book emphasizes the unity of Scripture and its one main theme: God loves us and will always keep His promises to us. This book holds my kids' attention more than anything else. Furthermore, it helps them connect the dots between all the Bible stories they learn here and at Sunday School. You can read my full review here.

Beverly: I also have three “first Bibles” to recommend. The first, 100 Bible Stories 1oo Bible Songs, by Steven Elkins, was given to my daughter as a birthday present when she turned one. We read this book to her regularly. It is a Bible storybook that retells the beloved Bible stories we all learned as young children. We have found this to be very biblically accurate, and the pictures are eye catching. I like this “first Bible” for young children because it only gives them as much information as their little minds can handle! You can read my review of this book here.

The NKJV Precious Moments Collector Edition Bible is a wonderful first Bible for a child. I recommend this Bible for a child that is at least four years old, and can treat a book with care. My sister received an earlier edition when she learned to read. There are beautiful, full color illustrations and numerous black and white ones in this Bible, as well as companion stories that can be used as teaching tools or devotionals. Read my review to see what else this Bible has to offer.

The Child’s Story Bible, by Catherine F. Vos, is close to my heart because my parents used it with me, and I used it to teach my classes of Sunday school children. Lord willing, I will use it with my children when they are old enough. My favorite thing about this Bible storybook is the beautiful language that speaks to a child’s heart. The gospel is artfully woven into every aspect of this classic. You can find out more in my review, here.

The Family Illustrated Bible

Looking for a Bible for family devotions? Want it to have lovely illustrations and lots of Bible stories not found in most children's Bibles? Then The Family Illustrated Bible may be worth looking at.

Previously published by a secular publisher as The Children's Bible, the first thing you're likely to notice about this large volume are the illustrations, created by a team of artists. Most are in full color, and highlight a realistic style. Many are full page and simply stunning. And from time to time, full color photographs of actual artifacts or biblical locations are included, too.

Next, you'll probably notice that this storybook Bible includes many stories rarely found in children's Bibles, like Sodom and Gomorrah, Rahab and the spies, the call of Gideon, Absalom's rebellion, Jesus' temptation, John the Baptist's death, Peter's denial, and the book of Revelation. To list every story this Bible covers would require several pages, but suffice it to say that compared to other storybook Bibles, it is quite complete.

What I Liked: The illustrations are lovely and a strong attraction for both my 6 year old and my nearly 3 year old. I also appreciate the inclusion of many Bible stories not found in most children's Bibles, and both my kids and I enjoyed many of the sections offering a bit of background on biblical history, artifacts, and locales.

What I Dislike: I'm not sure what age is really the target audience here. Many of the stories include graphic detail I personally don't want to read to my children. For example, in the story of Potiphar's wife, we read that she "tried to seduce him...[she] believed herself to be irresistible." I'd rather the author supply parents with an easier way to explain what all this means, as certain other children's Bibles do. Parents might also be surprised to find the story of how Jephthah killed his daughter for God. Yes, it's biblically accurate, but are you ready to explain this story to your child? And when I got to the story of Abaslom's rape of his sister, Tamar, I shad to stop reading aloud. The book reads: "When they were alone, he grabbed her. She struggled and tried to fend him off. Afterward, he sent her away in disgrace." Just how am I supposed to explain this to my children without explaining what rape is?

The stories seem more appropriate for teens - or maybe tweens. Yet I doubt many kids in this age group want a "childish" illustrated storybook Bible.

In addition to this, I notice some of the information about the history of the Bible is...well, inaccurate or misleading. For example, the Gospel of Thomas - not in the Bible - is included in the section on the Gospels, as if it is equal with them. In addition, the Bible stories themselves sometimes contain questionable phrasing. For example, at one point God "worries." In the story of the parting of the Red Sea, the Israelites cross over muddy ground, even though the Bible clearly says the ground was dry. Little things like that.

Overall Rating: Sadly, I can only give this book a Ho-Hum rating.

Age Appeal: The publisher doesn't offer a guideline, but I don't feel it's appropriate for kids younger than the tween years.

Publishing Info: New Leaf; 2011; ISBN: 978-0892217045; hardback, 356 pgs., $24.99.

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Classic Bible Storybook

One common criticism of children's Bibles is they tend to not give a good overall picture of what the Bible is really about; yes, there are many stories in the Bible, but they have a common element running through them: Jesus. Recently, a few children's Bibles have done a good job of correcting this, including The Jesus Storybook Bible and The Big Picture Bible. But before either of those books were published, there were children's Bibles by Kenneth N. Taylor.

Taylor was a prolific children's book author, the translator of

The Living Bible, and founder of Tyndale House Publishers. In his two books Bible Story Book and The Living Bible Storybook (now out of print), he strove to accurately tell Bible stories in brief sections, sometimes explaining how Jesus fit in - even with Old Testament stories. Today, Tyndale combined what they feel are the best of both books to create Classic Bible Storybook.
The first thing you may notice when you pick up this book is that it includes many stories rarely included in children's Bibles, including the story of the original Passover, the story of manna, Job, the first tabernacle and temple, a thorough telling of John the Baptist, a detailed account of how Peter and Andrew became followers of Jesus, a thorough retelling of many of Jesus' parables (including a great recounting of the parable of the seeds), Jesus healing ten lepers, a detailed account of what happened after Christ's resurrection, and a brief retelling of Revelation (which doesn't discuss horrible things happening, but focuses on the glories of Heaven).
As you read, you'll also find mentions of how, for example, Christ took the place of the Old Testament sacrificial lambs and how Jesus fulfilled so many prophesies. Many other unusual details are included, too. Several made me run to my Bible to double check accuracy, such the mention of the type of food Abraham served the angels.
Each story is told in one to two pages, with questions and answers given afterward. Not all stories are illustrated.
What I Like: This is a more thorough recounting than a great many children's Bibles offer. In fact, I'd say it's only one step down from reading the actual Bible to your child. I also love the overall look of this volume. Each page is printed so it looks like antique parchment paper.
What I Dislike: I'm not a huge fan of the illustrations, by Richard and Frances Hook. They are original to Taylor's old books, but come across as dated to me. They often don't show much detail or action, making them of little interest to younger children.
Overall Rating: Very good.
Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 4 to 8, but my 3-year-old, who has advanced taste in books and "reads" many books for 4- and 5-year-olds, doesn't care for it much. Other 3- and 4-year-olds I test-read to also found the book a bit dull due to the lack of interesting illustrations. I'd say this Bible is most appropriate for kindergartners and children in the early grades.
Publisher Info: Tyndale, 2009; ISBN: 1414307691; hardback; $12.99
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The Best Bibles for Early Readers

It's never too early to instill the habit of daily Bible reading in your child. That's why, as soon as my daughter could read even a little bit, I was eager to find her a Bible she could read on her own. Yes, I still read both a "real" Bible and a good storybook Bible to her, but she has always taken delight and pride in having a Bible she can read herself.

Sadly, though, it isn't all that easy to find Bibles designed for young children or early readers. I've looked at all of them that are currently in print - and this post will, I hope, help you wade through them much more easily, discovering which one is right for your child.

NOTE: The term "early reader" is vaguely applied in the publishing industry, but for our purposes, it means any book designed for children who are still learning to read independently. Often, such books are labeled "I Can Read" with the level of difficulty (1, 2, and 3) suggested on the cover. In this post, I am not referring to NIrV Bibles, which are often marketed as "early reader" Bibles, but which require a greater level of proficiency to read than leveled readers.

The Hear-Me-Read Bible by Dr. Mary Manz Simon

I believe this is currently the best Bible storybook for children who are just beginning to learn to read. The stories are short, there are only a few sentences per page; and the illustrations are vivid and interesting. If your child can't yet read level 1 early readers without help, The Hear-Me-Read Bible is an excellent choice. (Read our complete review here.)

My Read and Rhyme Bible Storybook by Crystal Bowman and Cindy Kenney

This is a rhyming storybook Bible. Each chapter begins with a word list, and after each story, there's another short list of words, plus a list of rhyming words. This is followed by questions for discussion. There are many things to love about this Bible. The writing is very good and the illustrations are cute. (In fact, this is my non-reading son's favorite Bible.) But I don't find it a very good early reader's Bible. I'd say it's about a low level 3 in it's reading difficulty - and by the time children are reading that well, they may object to the word lists and can probably read a more challenging Bible. (Read our complete review here.)

 

The Young Reader's Bible by Bonnie Bruno and Carol Reinsma

My daughter, who is just barely reading at Level 2, reads this Bible storybook daily. She needs some help with it, but not so much she becomes frustrated.  The stories are in big type, are short, and have attractive illustrations. Sadly, I was recently informed this book is going out of print - but you can still find copies at Amazon.

The Early Reader's Bible by V. Gilbert Beers

This one is very similar to The Young Reader's Bible. The stories are short, told in larger-than-average type, and accompanied by attractive illustrations. My daughter thinks this book is slightly harder to read than The Young Reader's Bible, but if it is, it's only slightly so. Each story ends with "Something to Ask" (questions to ask yourself) and "Something to Do" (which are sometimes just more questions, but sometimes also encourage action). If I had to choose between The Early Reader's Bible and The Young Reader's Bible, I personally would choose the latter.

 

My Learn to Read Bible by Tracy Harrast

If you like rebus books - that is, books that replace certain words with pictures so kids can "read" - this title may be a good choice for you. This is a large book with lots of colorful illustrations, targeted toward very young children. To use it, though, children will have to memorize what many of the pictures mean. For example, they have to understand that one image of a man is Jesus, another is a shepherd, and another just means "man." I am not a huge fan of rebus books - although they can be handy for children who are eager to read, but can't yet.

And a few Bible storybooks that look like they are for beginning readers, but are not:

 

The Beginner's Bible by Kelly Pulley: This is more of a read-to-me storybook Bible than a book beginning readers can read to themselves. (See our full review here.) 

The Beginning Reader's Bible with illustrations by Marijke ten Cate: Of all the Bibles I've seen marketed toward early readers, this one fails the test most miserably. The reading level is pretty high; it's excerpts from the International Children's Bible, and suitable only for children who are passed (or nearly passed) level 3 readers. In addition, some parents may object to the mature nature of some of the content. (For more information, read our complete review, here.) If your child can read this Bible storybook, I think you're better off giving him or her a complete International Children's Bible.

Read with Me Bible by Dennis G. Jones: This book isn't for early readers. It's designed to be read to toddlers. (Read our full review here.) There is also the NIrV Read with Me Bible, but again, why give your child a collection of excepts when he or she can read a complete NIrB Bible?

My Very Own Bible

Among the myriad of children's Bibles now available is My Very Own Bible by Betty Fletcher.

Here at Christian Children's Book Review, we see a great many children's Bibles. What sets this Bible apart is its small-hands size (about 5.9 x 4.1 inches) and the fact that it introduces young children not only to widely-told Bible stories (like Noah's Ark and David and Goliath) but also stories that are less often told in Bibles for little ones.

Some of the lesser-told Bible stories include: Moses parting the Red Sea, Gideon and his army, Elisha and the poor woman, Naaman, Queen Esther, the fiery furnace, John the Baptist, Bartimaeus, the poor woman who gave pennies, doubting Thomas, Paul and Silas in jail, and a succinct telling of what Heaven will be like (from the book of Revelation). Each Bible story is told in a two page spread, with the text on one side of the page and a colorful illustration by Lou Police on the opposite side.

What I Like: Small children love books that are diminutive, and while this Bible doesn't offer much detail for each story, it is a great introduction to many stories in the Bible, as well as to basic concepts like who Jesus is.

What I Dislike: If you're looking for much in the way of details, this is not the Bible for your child.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 4 to 8, but I think, in general, it's more appropriate for toddlers and preschoolers.

Publisher Info: Harvest House Publishers, 2008; ISBN: 0736921532; hardback; $6.99

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English Standard Version Grow! Bible

The English Standard Version Grow! Bible is a simple, straightforward, "grown-up" Bible.  Printed in blues and browns, it would be a perfect choice for boys who need a complete Bible, but aren't ready for a study Bible yet.

Like many Bibles for the eight-to-twelve set, the Grow! Bible is full of helpful features. It includes a "WH-question" on nearly every page (who, what, when, where, why and how). Personal application notes are highlighted in the "4U" sections. "Cross Connections" in the Old and New Testaments explain how a passage relates to Christ's life, death and resurrection. The Grow! Bible also includes lots of charts, maps, articles and timelines. A glossary at the back and introductions to each book of the Bible help readers to understand biblical passages better.

The English Standard Version is a translation of the Bible that focuses on literal, word-for-word translation, instead of a thought-for-thought translation focused on modern language (like the New International Version). Many readers won't notice a difference, but it may be a good idea to check which version your church (or children's department) uses, if your child is planning to bring the Bible to church.

What I Like:  I like the helpful features. They are full of biblical and historical information, but they shy away from imagining modern scenarios. The "4U" sections may talk about principles, like sin and forgiveness, or a relatively universal experience, such as being called a name, but they leave out details. This helps readers be able to personalize the message of the Bible for their own lives.

I like the blue and brown color scheme for boys. The Bible definitely looks and feels "grown-up."

I especially like the salvation outline found right before the book of Revelation.

What I Dislike:  I wish the Bible printed the words of Jesus in red. Also, the format and cover are relatively simple, and may not appeal to boys on the younger end of the age range as much as some other Bibles on the market. However, the Grow! Bible isn't likely to be outgrown as quickly, either.

Overall Rating:  Very Good

Age Appeal: 8-12

Publisher Info: Crossway, 2001,2011; ISBN: 978-1-4335-2874-3; Hardcover, 1569 pages, $27.99

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Special Notes: The Grow! Bible is available from the publisher in cases of twelve, at a discounted price.

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The Story Bible

The Story Bible, edited by Edward A. Engelbrecht and Gail E. Pawlitz, presents "130 Stories of God's Love." The book includes representations from Genesis to Revelation, each in concise two- to three-page stories. Key words are highlighted in the sidebar and defined in the Glossary at the back of the book. Each story also includes application prompts.

• ASK: One to five questions encourage readers to interact with the text. These typically ensure comprehension.
• DO: Activities range from discussion starters to crafts, memorization and trying new foods.
• PRAY: This provides a short prayer related to the story, typically three sentences or less.

The illustrations showcase the talents of more than ten different artists. All feature bold colors, strong contrast and realistic details. Every story boasts at least one full-page, full-color illustration.

Additional features include a Preface and Introduction that detail the thought processes that went into the creation of this Bible as well as helpful tips for parents. The introduction includes guides for development and interest as well as reading strategies. This section is divided into three parts, based on age (Read to Me = 2 to 6; Read with Me = 5 to 8; Hear Me Read = 7 to 10). The Table of Contents sorts the stories chronologically and lists them by title and chapter. Bible references are provided both in the Table of Contents and the stories themselves.

What I Like: Most children's Bibles offer paraphrases and over-simplified texts, but this one is surprisingly reflective of Scripture! My husband and I (both holding Bible degrees) viewed it as an accurate contemporary translation, only abridged and illustrated. This makes sense since the text is derived from the ESV (English Standard Version) Bible. While paraphrases have their place and are quite helpful, especially with children, publications like this one offer an invaluable bridge between children's Bibles and regular Bibles. I like that it works for families whose children span various age ranges or developmental levels. We can read it together as a family and everyone gets something from it.

I also greatly appreciate the introductory matter. There parents learn that the text for this Bible was drafted while consulting both the Flesch-Kincaid Readability Formula and the Dolch and Fry Sight Word lists, both resources highly acclaimed by literacy teachers nationwide. This translates into an approachable text for early readers.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 3 and up. The introduction, however, offers instructions for children ages 2-10.

Publisher Info: Concordia Publishing House, 2011; ISBN: 0758619022; Hardback; 480 pages; $29.99

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Special Info: The face of Jesus is pictured several times in this volume, both as a child and an adult.

A First Bible Story Book

This is one of the loveliest first Bibles our family has read together. A First Bible Story Book by Mary Hoffman and illustrated by Julie Downing is a pleasure to behold. Covering thirteen of the major events in the Bible, both Old and New Testament, allows this book to cover many of the classics that we expect in a first Bible while not being overwhelming.

An introductory, illustrated book covering the main events of the Bible is a must have for Christian families. The illustrated events take on a deeper level of significance for children than simple text. Well-developed illustrations allow the text to sink in deeply and make the characters and details easier for young children to remember. I still have memories of Bible stories and the accompanying illustrations from my own childhood.

What I Like: The layout of the text and illustrations is unique – each page different and creatively arranged. This seems to make the illustrations more meaningful, as they are superbly integrated within the text itself. Executed in soft watercolors and ink, the illustrations are authentic and realistic. The illustrated table of contents and cast of characters, “Who’s Who,” at the end of the book are unique. My oldest daughter, 5, loves the illustration of Israel’s family, a depiction of each of the 12 brothers. “Which one is Joseph?” she asks. I feel that the style and arrangement of the illustrations are such that these retellings of Bible events will remain with her for years to come.

What I Dislike: The "Introduction to the Bible" section opens with the text: “The Bible is a collection of some of the best stories every told…However, the Bible is different from other story collections. Not all of these retellings are happy…” I prefer books that present the Bible as true and accurate – not simply consisting of stories. I agree that the Bible is different than another story collection - not because some of the events are unhappy or unsettling – but because it’s inspired by God, and all of the events are true.

Another similar case is found in the last section that focuses on Christ’s resurrection: “Christians believe that Jesus was sent to die and rise again to save the world.” While this statement is true, I think we should state it as fact rather than as a belief. I still give this title an excellent rating due to its other strengths.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: DK Children, 1998; ISBN: 0789415550; Hardcover: $12.99.

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This title is also available in the following formats: with cassette in paperback at Amazon.com - $9.99, with cassette in paperback at Christian Book - $7.99 and with CD in paperback at Christian Book - $7.99.

Special info: For more beginner Bible recommendations read Our Favourite “First” Bibles compilation review.

The Bible Book By Book

The Bible can be a difficult book to bring to life, especially for teens. In The Bible Book By Book by Cris Rogers, you may not get all of the answers, but you definitely have the tools at your fingertips to start the discussion.

The Bible Book By Book is a comprehensive field guide, appropriate for the curious teen, the youth group leader, or the parent leading a small group. Every book of the Bible has its own essay, usually 2 - 4 pages in length, with the following information:

• Author
• Date written (approximate)
• Type of book (is it history, poetry, gospel, prophecy, etc.?)
• Key characters (who are the significant players in the book)
• Major themes
• Title and Style (which gives insight to how the book got its name)
• Background (historical context)
• GPS (locations in the book, as well as some religious components to the region)
• The Detail (tidbits about specific parts of the particular book. For instance, in the section on 1 Chronicles, the writer points out differences in the accounts of Solomon's crowning as king here and in 2 Kings, then goes into a bit of supposition on why the variance may have happened.)
• Other books to read 

While this book isn't suitable for everyday reading, or for reading straight through, it is appropriate as a reference, giving historical context for every book of the Bible in an easy-to-understand way. It's not a substitute for a good concordance, but an aid to understanding the Bible's culture and backstory.

What I Like: I love the fact this book is so well organized. I knew what to expect, and it was easy to find information on whatever I was looking for, although it does lack an index. I frequently learned something new, and many things are surprising, especially about the culture of Rome and the gods/goddesses worshiped during New Testament times.

References between the New and Old Testament books provide substance to parables, as well as the nature of God, among other things. The explanations are always fascinating, and I frequently found myself reading tidbits to my husband, like how there are two versions of Jeremiah, depending on what Bible you use. The Hebrew version is in the Jewish Bibles, and is the basis for the version in the Protestant Bible. The Greek Septuagint version of Jeremiah is used in the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Bibles, which is about an eighth shorter and presented in a slightly different order.

The writer doesn't assume that the reader has read the previous entries. Frequently, information is repeated, maybe not exactly, but enough that I noticed it, especially in Paul's letters to different churches (Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians, etc.)

Photographs of the Holy Land appear nearly on every page, from its people, to the scenery, even a few maps done by the author. I really feel that it gave some significance to the Bible, not that I'd be reading about some vague idea, but a real place, with real people.

What I Dislike: First, you need to know I believe the Bible is God's Word to us and every word is true. So, when, for instance, in the part on Esther, the type of book is labeled as "comic, fictional history," I cringe. Other examples that caused me to pause included:

• Ruth: the writer describes the book as "more like a 'soap opera' than a pure history book." 
• 1 Chronicles is described as an "inspiring propaganda account of David" mostly because of what is missing from the book (absence of the civil wars, Bathsheba, or David murdering Bathsheba's husband.) 
• For Jonah, it's suggested that some scholars believe Jonah didn't happen, although I got the impression the author doesn't agree with that idea. 
• The story of Samson is believed to be folklore, rather than precise history. 

However, I think an astute reader can glean the important information, and disregard what may or may not be complete truth. Much of this may be one man's opinion, but then again, it may be backed up by scholars much more learned than me.

A novel was referenced for further reading with Judges, although there may have been others which I failed to note as I read. While the novel may be perfectly good, and filled with accurate info, I would hesitate to recommend a fictional account for someone who is shaky in their knowledge or faith since it could give them wrong impressions.

I would have liked it if, in the GPS sections, the writer would have indicated where places are now. In the New Testament sections, Mr. Rogers was a bit better about it, but it would've been nice to have it consistently done for areas that are now known by other names. More maps would've been good to assist as well.

Overall Rating: Despite everything mentioned above, I found this book to be very good. The good aspects definitely outweighed the bad.

Age Appeal: 12 and up

Publisher Info: Monarch Books, 2011; ISBN: 978-0-85721-016-6; Paperback, 204 pgs., $19.99

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Special Info: The author, Cris Rogers, is a minister for the Church of England, and as such, there are frequent British spellings throughout the book.

God's Story for Me Bible Storybook

If you are looking for a children's Bible to entertain toddlers and still teach truths about God's love to preschool and grade school children, look no further. God's Story for Me Bible Storybook by Gospel Light Publishing, is like a Life Application Bible for the tiniest readers (or listeners). While presented in typical children's Bible fashion with bright, eye-catching illustrations, and 104 various stories from the Old and New Testament, God's Story for Me is different in a couple of important ways.

First of all, each story ends with a two-sentence summary and lesson to take away from the passage. The publisher calls it a "Connection Circle" and explains, "These simple discussion starters help explain why God wants us to know this story and how it connects to a child's daily life." The connection circle at the end of the story of Joshua marching around the walls of Jericho says, "Sometimes God's plans are different from how we would do things. God's plans are good."

Secondly, the selection of stories seems more extensive and well-rounded than many children's Bibles on the market. For example, in the Old Testament, Isaac Digs Wells is included as a lesson on sharing, Esau Forgives retells the story of Jacob and Esau's reconciliation after Isaac steals Esau's blessing, and there are six stories about David instead of the two generally chosen. The best aspect of the New Testament picks is the inclusion of 16 stories after the Ascension of Christ. Readers get a good sense of the early church, a broader view of the lives of Peter and Paul, and of course learn about Heaven and telling others about Jesus.

Third, the Bible uses footnotes to explain things such as Passover, the Ark of the Covenant, and anointing.

The Bible also has 24 fun stickers at the back for children to use to mark favorite stories, "I heard this in Sunday School," "I read this with my Grandma," and so on.

What I Like: I really like the connection circles. They are well-written, theologically sound, and help parents and other adults relate the Bible to a child's life. I would pick God's Story for Me over any other Bible for this age range, simply to have the connection circles. The lessons in some stories are obvious, but for other stories, I, as a mom, appreciate having help. The story of Gideon and the Midianites ends with, "God cares for us. He will help us know what to do when people are mean to us." After Jesus' resurrection, Jesus asks Peter if he loves him and tells Peter to feed his sheep three times. The publishers explain Peter had said he didn't know Jesus but then was sorry. The connection circle says, "Jesus never stops loving us, even when we do wrong. He will help us obey."

I also like the way the publishers point to Jesus even from the beginning of the Old Testament. After Adam and Eve hid from God, we see a picture of Jesus and read, "But God never stopped loving them. God gave them a happy promise: Someone would come to make things right again."

What I Dislike: The publishers use exclamation points and capital letters in a somewhat capricious style. This was distracting as I was reading aloud, and made the reading more choppy. For example, part of the story Friends Help a Lame Man is written, "The house had stairs up to the flat roof! The men carried their friend up the stairs. They broke and pulled and tore to make a big HOLE in the ROOF! Then the four carefully LOWERED their friend on his mat right through that hole!" Though annoying, I think you would get used to the style after repeated readings.

Overall Rating: Very Good

Age Appeal: 2-5, but my 8-year-old still enjoys it.

Publisher Info: Gospel Light, 2009; ISBN: 978-0-8307-4812-9 ; Hardcover, $16.99

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My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids

The Message, by Eugene H. Peterson, has become a popular translation of Scripture, quickly challenging the New International Version for most contemporary. Just last month, a child version was released: My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids.

Most children's Bibles offer simplified retellings of Scripture. This one doesn't. This book tells real Bible stories, from Genesis to Revelation; it even uses the same text as the adult version. Toss in kid-friendly cartoon illustrations and age-appropriate applications and you've got an excellent study Bible to keep kids interested in Scripture.

The devotional format encourages children to Read, Think, Pray and Live.

• Read: Included are 50 Bible stories. Biblical references are clearly featured.



• Think: Colorful "bubble" sidebars ask questions to involve children in the story. For example, the chapter on Exodus 7-11 (The Plagues) asks "What does it mean to be stubborn?" and "Would you change your mind if all these things were happening to you? Why or why not?"



• Pray: Prayer prompts are at the end of each chapter. After reading about the good Samaritan, children are encouraged to "pray for neighbors on your block, in your school and around the world."



• Live: A special character, Manty the praying mantis, can be found throughout the book. He details fun activities and applications right next to the prayer prompts. Some are service activites or ways to reach out to friends at school. Others are drawing or craft projects. All of them reinforce the lessons from the stories.

Additional features include a parents' guide (in the front of the book), vocabulary words (definitions offered in the margins), and hidden Mannys (Manny the praying mantis is hidden in several of the illustrations).

Rob Corley and Tom Bancroft have filled this book with inviting illustrations kids love. The characters are distinct (as opposed to some children's Bibles where every character looks the same) and active. Their cartoony, comic book style comes from over 30 years combined experience in animation, most of which while working for Disney.

What I Like: This is the first children's Bible I've found to make real age-appropriate connections. For example, the author makes the story of Jonah personal, understandable by saying "God sent Jonah to time-out in the belly of a huge fish." (This is in the Pray section, not the story section.) It then encourages kids to confess their sins to God and ask Him to help them obey. I think this is a fabulous application! I also really like the introductory material. The front of the book gives several pages of parent helps to direct them in how to use this book with their children, how to effectively teach their children to love God.

What I Dislike: Some of the illustrations are a little odd, but this may be my more conservative nature popping through. My kids LOVE this book, especially the illustrations. It's the new favorite Bible in our house -- and we have a lot!

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8

Publisher Info: NavPress, 2007; ISBN: 1576834484; Hardback; $17.99

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Play-and-Learn Bible

The Play-and-Learn Bible is Level 4 in the NLT Story Bible Series. Illustrated by Terry Julien, this book features 50 Bible stories for active kids. The book's contents are based on the New Living Translation of the Bible and includes stories from both the Old and New Testaments.

What makes this story Bible unique is the heightened level of participation by children and adults. Each story includes a teachers' script, Scripture references and then the action. For example, the story of Noah's Ark reads: "SAY: As I read the story, you repeat the words in color and do the motions." The page then continues with motion suggestions in italics below each line of story text. Like this:

God told Noah to build a boat. A big, big boat.
Open arms wide.
Soon it will rain. Splish, splash! Splish, splash!
Wiggle your fingers and lower your hands to make rain.
Noah's family will be safe. Safe in the boat.
Hug yourself.

The story continues with 14 more lines of text and motions (over three more pages) and concludes with a memory verse: "You care for people and animals alike, O Lord." Psalm 36:6, NLT.

Some stories are written as songs sung to familiar tunes ("Row, Row, Row Your Boat", "Mary Had a Little Lamb", etc.). Others give illustrations in the text for children to name the pictures while you read the rest. All 50 memory verses are provided in full at the back of the book as an index, including page numbers to the corresponding stories.

What I Like: This a great book for group use such as preschool or mommy-and-me type music clubs! It keeps kids' attention and is perfect for busy toddlers who dislike reading or sitting still for story time. I love the illustrations! They're simple, but happy and unique; friendly and warm. Finally, some children's Bibles shy away from certain stories, like the crucifixion. This Bible doesn't. It includes several stories neglected in other children's Bibles, including Ruth and Naomi, Elisha, Paul's conversion, the trials of Jesus, Peter's visions of Heaven and many more.

What I Dislike: It's not very inviting for at-home use. Between the multitude of different directions and activities and the teacher's script, it's not a book for cuddling on the couch with your kids. Also, other than the memory verses, this book doesn't offer any application of the Scriptures.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: 4-5

Publisher Info: Standard Publishing, 2004; ISBN: 0784715971; Hardback; $15.99

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Special Info: Jesus' face is pictured throughout the book. See our reviews of other books in this series.

Tiny Bear's Bible

Tiny Bear's Bible is the newest offering from Sally Lloyd-Jones, author of three best-selling children's Bibles. (She also wrote The Jesus Storybook Bible, which is a Top Pick here at CCBR.) This newest children's Bible is a boardbook version illustrated by Igor Oleynikov. Its novelty is found in the fur. Both front and back covers are wrapped in a thick, soft bear's fur.

Inside readers find eleven Bible stories told through rhyming verse. A distinction between this children's Bible and all others is the voice. Each story is told as if a parent is reading to his child, more specifically, that a mother or father bear is reading to "Tiny Bear." Each Bible story is one or two paragraphs (typically four stanzas long) followed by one paragraph (two to four stanzas) of application, spoken directly to Tiny Bear.

Here is chapter list showing the included stories:

• God Makes the Whole Wide World, Genesis 1-2
• God Promises to Rescue Noah, Genesis 6-9
• God Keeps Moses Safe, Exodus 1-2
• David Fights a Horrible Giant, 1 Samuel 17
• God Protects Daniel in the Lions' Den, Daniel 6
• Jesus Is Born, Luke 2
• Jesus Stops a Scary Storm, Mark 4
• The Lord's Prayer, paraphrase of Matthew 6
• The Friend of Sinners (Jesus befriends Zacchaeus), Luke 19
• God Makes Jesus Alive Again!, Matthew 27-28
• "I am with you always", Mark 10

Illustrations fill the pages. For each chapter, the left page shows the biblical account while the right page shows Tiny Bear living out the story.

What I Like: The illustrations are so unique! They are filled with colors, but the style sets them apart from from all other children's books. They are sophisticated, somewhere between a stippled design and impressionism. As a former art student, I was quite taken by them. My son loves the fur! He has been hesitant to read through many children's Bibles, but he loves this one. I love the applications with each story. It forces parents and children to think about what each story means for us today. As always, I appreciate the biblical references provided with each chapter.

What I Dislike: Between the fur, the text and the illustrations, this book seemed inconsistent to me. After playing with the outside, the inside completely surprised me. The outside is cutesy; the inside is not. It seems an odd combination to me. Also, I felt the Bible stories were simplistic and incomplete. There is never any explanation of why these things happened.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: Infant - Preschool (Reading level is grade 6 and above.)

Publisher Info: ZonderKidz, 2007; ISBN: 0310710820; board book; $12.99

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