Every month, I put together a roundup of new and notable books for grown-up readers. But I also receive a lot of books for kids and like to put together the occasional roundup of these books as well. So today I bring you a whole big batch of new books for kids of all ages (up to and including teens). I have listed them in the rough order of their intended age range.
Training Young Hearts Board Books Boxed Set: 6 Lift-The-Flap Board Books & Guide for Grown-Ups by Abbey Wedgeworth. “This collection of fun lift-the-flap board books for small children addresses the attitudes of the heart that underpin behavior and explains how the gospel of grace enables us to change. These helpful and engaging training tools will help you not only to guide your kids in positive behavior but also teach them about God’s amazing grace! The beautiful box set contains: What Are Hands For?; What Are Mouths For?; What Are Feet For?; What Are Eyes For?; What Are Ears For?; What Are Feelings For? A guide for parents is also included to help them think through how to refer back to these resources when specific behaviors need both to be corrected and to be connected to forgiveness, grace, and growth.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Guide for Grown-Ups: A Training Young Hearts book by Abbey Wedgeworth. This will be useful if you have some of the books but not the box set. “Author Abbey Wedgeworth shares some of the principles behind the Training Young Hearts board books and provides tips on how to use them as you seek to lead your little ones to Jesus and to train them in positive behavior. Starting with the story of redemption, she explores some of the reasons children need help to behave well and explains why moments of discipline can actually be the perfect opportunity to share the gospel with our kids. This encouraging, simple guide offers plenty of practical advice about how to respond well when little ones misbehave, how to help children resolve conflict, and how to build emotional resilience in our kids. You’ll be reminded that God is at work even in the most challenging moments of parenting.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Big Truths for Little Minds Bundle by Jonathan Gibson. “My First ABC Book of Bible Verses and My First 123 Book of Bible Numbers are the first two books in the Big Truths for Little Minds series, which introduces children ages 3-5 to basic concepts of the Christian faith. In My First 123 Book of Bible Numbers, Gibson helps toddlers and preschoolers learn basic Bible facts along with their 1-2-3s. Each number from 1 to 12 has a bright and engaging page spread featuring a simple number fact and illustrations designed to help children practice their counting through finding the number throughout each page. In My First ABC Book of Bible Verses, Gibson helps toddlers and preschoolers learn key Bible verses along with their ABCs. Each letter of the alphabet has a bright, captivatingly illustrated page with a short, foundational Bible verse to be memorized and a simple sentence that helps explain the verse.” (Westminster Books)
Joseph and the Very Strange Dreams by Tim Thornborough. “Fun and interactive, this faithful Bible story retelling isn’t just about Joseph – it’s about God! As the storybook repeats: ‘The Lord has a plan, and he’s working it out. He speaks words we can trust, so there’s no need to doubt.’ Kids will be enthralled as they encounter the ups and downs of Joseph’s story. They’ll be amazed to discover that: God is always with us; God has a good plan; God’s word can be trusted. Using opposites as a storytelling technique, this exciting and educational story encourages active listening. The vibrant illustrations will also keep their attention. Your little one will ask to read this classic Bible story about Joseph over and over again. Perfect for family, preschool, and Sunday school read-aloud times.” (Buy it at Amazon)
He Always Hears: A Story of Loss and the Hope of Things Made New by Alyson Punzi. “In our broken world, life rarely unfolds as we hope. For little ones facing loss, disappointment, and heartache for the first time, it can be a confusing and overwhelming experience. He Always Hears teaches children what biblical lament is, how to tell God about our pain, and how to rely on his redemptive promises. In this poignant book designed for kids ages 3–8, Jane faces challenges when her seemingly perfect life takes a difficult turn. After enduring a series of losses that leave her feeling scared, Jane’s parents teach her how to cry out to the Lord―the one who hears her cries and is working to make all things new. Whether kids are dealing with pain big or small, this book encourages them to turn to God in their moments of sorrow.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Praise God, All Creatures: A Doxology for Children by Jason Duesing. “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! For hundreds of years, the doxology has been recited or sung by Christians. Praise God, All Creatures builds on those familiar words and celebrates the many reasons for all creation to praise the Father, Son, and Spirit. Written to be read and reread by young and old and in-between, the book encourages all to join the creatures on the page–from land and sea and air–as they praise the God who made them. This joyful book is one that all Christians–regardless of their tradition–can share and enjoy.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
We Sing!: Teaching Kids to Praise God with Heart and Voice by Kristyn Getty. “Join this song, each girl, each boy, until the world resounds with joy. God created his children to sing! Through music, we can express our heartfelt praise, weave the gospel into our daily lives, and grow in our understanding of the Lord. Written by acclaimed singer and hymn writer Kristyn Getty, We Sing! beautifully highlights the power and joy of worshiping God through song. With lively rhyming verses and engaging illustrations, We Sing! helps children ages 3-8 connect with important biblical truths: worship is for everyone, every day, and forever. This book invites families to read, sing, and live out its message together, praising God and joyfully reflecting on all he has done for us.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love by Hannah Harrison. “The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is a humorous and heartwarming picture book about God’s unconditional love. This story beautifully captures the essence of Psalm 23, showing the importance of trusting God, our Good Shepherd, with our lives. Meet George, a silly and sometimes stubborn sheep living happily under the care of a Good Shepherd. But when shearing time comes, George decides it’s time to make a run for it, and soon finds himself on a journey full of unexpected disappointment, discomfort, and danger. Ultimately, he finds rescue and learns why he really does need a shepherd.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
The Kingdom and the King Storybook Bible by Bob Hartman. “As they begin to step out into the world, show kids the glory of being part of God’s everlasting kingdom and belonging to Jesus, the promised and reigning King. This beautiful storybook Bible, by beloved author Bob Hartman, is illustrated by Catalina Echeverri, the artist behind the best-selling storybook The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross. The illustrations feature compelling, dramatic, memorable imagery as the storytelling traces the theme of kingship and God’s kingdom throughout Scripture. Kids will encounter the goodness, grandeur and power of God as they enjoy 70 engaging and faithfully told Bible stories spanning from creation to Revelation. They’ll discover what it means to live as God’s people, in God’s kingdom, under Christ’s rule.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Penelope Judd: A Tale of a Dirty Land, a Promise Kept, and a Spotless Prince by Shai Linne. “Based on his song, ‘Penelope Judd,’ Shai Linne tells an allegorical tale that helps kids understand the Gospel story. Penelope Judd is a young girl living in a very messy land. Her whole town is covered in mud and only filled with children. No one is kind, the kids fight constantly, everything is sad and dirty, and Penelope feels hopeless. But one day, she receives a message that changes everything. She has been invited to meet a spotless Prince. This lyrical story helps kids see that, like Penelope, people live in a broken, messy, sinful world. But long ago, a Prince left His perfect home in heaven to come to earth where sin and death are everywhere–kind of like the muddy town. He lived a sinless life and took the punishment for our sin on the cross so that, like Penelope, we can be made new. The words in this book follow the song’s lyrics so that kids can read and listen simultaneously.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
John Calvin’s Illustrated Institutes, Book 1: Knowing God and Knowing Ourselves: Chapters 1-5 by Paul Cox, Martin Williams & Joy Williams. “Few works of theology have been as influential as John Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion. Now readers of all ages can enjoy its rich doctrine in a brand-new, lively, and welcoming format that remains faithful to the original text. Join Theo and Geneva as Calvin takes them on a life-changing, exuberantly illustrated journey through time and space. They’ll learn: why it’s so important to know God; why we must see ourselves in the light of God’s majesty; why all humans are inherently religious; why corrupted religion grows dangerous fruits; why we can know God through creation and providence. Includes chapter summaries and questions for discussion and meditation!” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
The Quest for the Best: A Story about the Things We Search for vs. the Satisfaction God Offers by Jimmy Needham. “Middle-grade readers will join Millie and her unruly entourage of REAL BAD GUYS on a search for the most superb, soul-satisfying thing of all–the Savior, Jesus Christ! The presents? Majorly “meh.” The decorations? A downer. And the balloons? Like Millie’s mood, deflated. Millie’s birthday is turning out to be a cursed day. Millie’s motley crew of cartoonish villains, the REAL BAD GUYS, try to cheer up their friend by offering her food, fun, and fame, but every time, the outcome is the same. There’s still a donut-sized hole in Millie’s heart–until she realizes that the only thing that can truly fill her up is the love of Jesus. With witty words from popular podcaster and recording artist Jimmy Needham and awesome illustrations from award-winning artist Sebastian Martin, The Quest for the Best reminds kids that nothing in or out of this world will satisfy them like Christ can.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
A Short Guide to the Bible: Exploring the Most Important Book You’ll Ever Read by Katy Morgan. “Reading the Bible on your own can be intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be! This short, simple guide will equip and inspire kids 8+ to explore God’s word for themselves. Features: Explanations of how the Bible fits together; Brief introductions to the various books and genres; A timeline of the whole Bible story, showing the big picture; Maps; Information about key characters and a fact file about Jesus; Definitions of key words. This attractive booklet will provide children aged 8+ with the basic knowledge they need in order to navigate the Bible and see that they can read and enjoy the Bible independently.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Eric’s Greatest Race: The Inspiring True Story of Eric Liddell-Athlete, Missionary, Prisoner by Tim Challies. “This engaging, fully illustrated book tells young readers the story of famous Olympian Eric Liddell, whose steadfast courage and commitment to Christ has inspired generations of believers. Athlete. Missionary. Prisoner. Eric Liddell’s life was a series of remarkable twists and turns, from his refusal to run on a Sunday in the 1924 Olympics (as depicted in the Oscar-winning film Chariots of Fire) to his extensive missionary work, and finally to his imprisonment during World War II. Through it all, Eric never abandoned his faith in God. Written and illustrated as a graphic novel, Eric’s Greatest Race tells Eric Liddell’s entire life story and educates young readers about important historical events and concepts along the way. Children will encounter a real-life hero whose incredible impact on Christianity and the world lives on today.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Bible Story Retellings Collection by Katy Morgan. “Step into the world of the Bible with these gripping Bible retellings for ages 8+. Each book draws deeply on Scripture to immerse readers in the lives of biblical characters. You’ll follow their stories, face their fears, and grapple with the reality of who God is, just as they did—giving you a deeper grasp and enjoyment of the biblical narrative. Novelistic in style and faithful to the Bible text, each book also includes notes on every chapter which add explanation and point readers back to the Scriptures. Written by ECPA award-winning author Katy Morgan.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
C.S. Lewis: The Boy Who Loved to Ask Big Questions by Laura Wickham-Caputo. “The true story of C.S. Lewis, whose love of learning, stories and Jesus led him to create Narnia and write many other beloved books. C.S. Lewis was curious and creative from his earliest days, and this biography walks kids through both fun and formative questions he asked and where they led him. Kids will learn about his famous stories and his friendship with J.R.R. Tolkien, as well as the suffering he faced when loved ones died and when he was injured in World War I. Most importantly, kids will hear how C.S. Lewis came to answer questions like ‘Why does God let bad things happen?’ and ‘Is God even real?’ Delightful illustrations and engaging storytelling will draw kids into this true story of good questions leading to a relationship with Christ.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
John Knox: The Boy Who Changed a Country by Sinclair Ferguson. “A true tale of adventure, the story of John Knox inspires kids to have courage because of Christ. Kids will follow John Knox’s exciting life through the twists and turns of persecution, enslavement, exile and a crucial role in the Reformation. Vivid illustrations bring the cannons, castles and other features of John Knox’s story to life. Renowned theologian Sinclair Ferguson’s engaging storytelling conveys a clear call to trust in Jesus. This book is part of the Do Great Things for God series, designed to show kids how God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Download free extras such as worksheets to help children interact with the true story and think of ways in which they can also follow God and encourage his people today.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
The Sword: Magnus and the Mystery of Romans by Marty Machowski. “Following the format of his popular storybook studies, Machowski weaves a Bible study of the book of Romans with a fictional story. The Sword shares the story of Katana and Brant who find a wooden sword and ancient journal belonging to Magnus, a one-time gladiator who became a guard who watched over the apostle Paul while he was under house arrest. Their discovery leads the siblings on a quest to reveal the mystery of the swords by studying Magnus’s journal. The Bible study portion of The Sword is presented as the study notes of Magnus. It was through his study of the gospel from Paul’s letter to the Romans that Magnus received the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. Readers will learn alongside Katana and Brant the bad news of our sin and the good news that rescues us through the cross of Christ.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
The Story of Corrie ten Boom: The Watchmaker Who Forgave Her Enemies by Jennifer Kelley. “This short and lively biography takes middle-grade readers on an exciting journey through ten Boom’s life, highlighting her upbringing, her family’s covert operations, and her most remarkable achievement of all―forgiving those who persecuted her. Ten Boom’s story acts as a witness to the world, demonstrating the power of mercy and the value of spreading the message of God’s love, regardless of one’s present situation. Featuring illustrations, maps, timelines, bonus sidebars, and study questions, this addition to the Lives of Faith and Grace series engages kids ages 8–13 in the drama of history, showing how God worked in the past through ordinary people like them.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Luis Palau: Calling the World to Christ by Vance Christie. “Discover the remarkable journey of Luis Palau, the man who became known as “the Billy Graham of Latin America” and whose voice reached over one billion people worldwide. In this compelling biography, Vance Christie chronicles the life of one of history’s most influential evangelists—from a grieving ten-year-old boy who lost his father in Argentina to a global messenger who proclaimed the gospel in over 80 countries. Born into a humble Christian family in 1934, Luis Palau’s path seemed uncertain after tragedy struck early. Yet through faith, determination, and divine calling, he rose to conduct more than 480 evangelistic campaigns, festivals, and rallies, personally reaching 30 million people and touching countless more through radio broadcasts on 3,500 stations across 48 countries.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
The Dream Keeper Saga by Kathryn Butler. “Follow the Dream Keeper Saga, a Fantasy Adventure for Ages 9-12, with the Complete 5-Book Set. Lily McKinley, a caring, artistic 12-year-old girl, wishes her life could return to the way it was before she lost her father. But when she’s whisked away to a new realm–guided by a talking dragon named Cedric and her dad’s magical, glowing soothstone–she learns she has the power to create dreams that can save her broken world. Mixing fantasy with Christian themes, the Dream Keeper Saga takes middle-grade readers on an adventure steeped in magic, mystery, and glimmers of hope. In these 5 thrilling stories, Lily and her schoolmates Adam and Keisha travel through a dreamlike landscape of castles, caverns, and forests. With the help of enchanted friends, they battle evil rulers to overcome darkness until the real hero, Prince Pax, comes to make all things new. This box set includes all 5 books in the series: The Dragon and the Stone; The Prince and the Blight; Lost in the Caverns; The Quest for the Guardians; and The Last Keeper.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Take Heart for Teens: Daily Devotions to Deepen Your Faith by David Powlison. “Friendship struggles, academic pressure, busy schedules, questions about the future–where can you turn when life becomes overwhelming? Even as a teenager you know how difficult life can be–with struggles coming at you from all directions, inside and out. No matter what your day holds, you can take heart because the Lord is with you. He hears your cries for mercy and knows your every need. He guides, helps, and strengthens you every day. He is your true north. Through this year of short daily devotionals from the writings of David Powlison, teenagers will learn how to go to God to ask for the help you need and take hold of the grace he offers. God’s promises are true and the resurrection of Jesus guarantees that no matter what you may be facing, you can live in real hope.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
12 Truths Every Teen Can Trust: Core Beliefs of the Christian Faith That Will Change Your Life by Paul David Tripp. “As Christian boys and girls mature into righteous men and women, understanding the core tenets of the faith could not be more critical, especially as they face indoctrination from the outside world. But understanding doctrine is more than just comprehending the truths of Scripture; it’s a God-honoring lifestyle shaped directly by biblical belief. In 12 Truths Every Teen Can Trust, pastor and bestselling author Paul David Tripp examines 12 core doctrines of the Christian faith to see how they can transform a teen’s heart and life. Using clear language and relatable examples, he defines doctrines such as God’s sovereignty, justification, and glorification, helping young people fall deeper in love with their Creator and Savior. Each chapter explores a specific doctrine through 7 brief readings, making it perfect for daily study.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
