How To Choose Christian Children's Books

How To Pick The Best Christian Children’s Books

We are blessed to live in a time during which a number of Christian resources are available to English speakers. How can one find the most quality books for discipling children? Here are some questions to consider:

Is the content clear, direct, and substantial? Is it well-written? Does the book feature engaging art to attract the attention of your child?

Let’s consider each of these:

Substantial

Does it include statements like this:

"RESPONSE: GOD COMMANDS ALL PEOPLE EVERYWHERE TO TURN THEIR BACK ON SIN AND BELIEVE IN JESUS ALONE FOR THE FORGIVENESS OF SIN.”

From Devon Provencher’s  “The Gospel”

Clear 

Does the language say something a bit confusing for children such as, “Faith gets us through.” Or

is it clear as in “ Christ died for our sins.” 

From “J is for Jesus” by Twin Sisters 

Direct

Does it allude to the truth- as in “Jesus is what matters most.” Or does it get to the heart of the gospel:

"Let everyone know that their sins can be forgiven if they turn to God! It’s possible because of what I have done.” 

The Bible App for Kids Storybook Bible 

Well-written 

My degrees are in Theology, not English or Art, but I will comment that there’s something about many Max Lucado books that makes you feel like a masterful story teller as you read them aloud to your little ones. Just In Case You Ever Wonder is an example of his skillful writing.

Bright

The best art is the art that your child likes. Children do judge books by their covers!

Personally I like the art in Jesus Saves and I Love My Bible. I notice my children looking at the pictures in books like The ABC Bible Verse Book.

If the children are not fond of the art, consider a different book. I suggest showing them book covers before getting a book for them. (The exception is The Rhyme Bible because it’s just so much fun to hear.)

Recently a friend suggested some books for Theotots. Earlier an author also mentioned his work to me… Hopefully reading these guidelines is helpful for you in understanding Theotots- and in making your own decisions about the resources that you provide for your children.

In Jesus,

Ruth

PS Many people around the world are unable to enjoy books such as I Can Follow Jesus because these materials do not currently exist in their heart languages. One of these languages is spoken by the Southern Qiandong Miao people in East Asia. Also, in Togo, one of my relatives is sharing the gospel with hearing impaired children through ABWE.

If you’re a believer who is looking for evangelistic materials for children it is likely that you are already engaged in The Great Commission through praying, sending, welcoming, training, or going.

If you aren’t, please pray about how the Lord might be leading you to respond, specifically in regards to helping people who don’t have Scriptures in their languages.

Organizations to check out:

Unfolding Word

GRN

Wycliffe Alliance 

IMB