A review roundup of biblical stories for children

God Made Me Unique

This book introduces the reader to children with special needs in an age-appropriate manner. Children will see that everyone should be treated with kindness, love, and respect, no matter the differences. God loves us all, we are all valuable, and everyone is created in God's image. It's a rhyming story, which makes it more relatable and engaging for children.

At the end of the book are pages with resources and ways to help children understand disabilities and how they're a part of God's plan.

Classrooms and churches could benefit from having a copy of this book available, as a variety of disabilities are represented in the story, as well as some Bible verses.

Gus Loses His Grip

The key verse for this book is Psalm 34:8: “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!”

This book is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series. The series is designed for three- to eight-year-olds to help them understand Bible principles.

Gus Loses His Grip features a raccoon with a sweet tooth. He learns that it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. Gus faces temptation. It threatens to overpower him, and Gus ends up sinning. Papa reminds Gus that nothing is too strong for Jesus, but we have to ask for his help.

The book also contains information to help parents explain things to the child and have a conversation about the gospel message. The images are vivid and will likely catch the child’s eye, and most children will be able to relate to what Gus is going through (whether it be wanting more candy, toys, technology time, etc.) Dealing with the “wantsies” is a key theme. Discussion questions are provided.

An important quote from this story is: “Now we can remind each other that only Jesus can help us lose our grip.”

Henry Says Good-Bye

This book is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series. The series is designed for three- to eight-year-olds to help them understand Bible principles.

Henry the hedgehog has a friend: a ladybug named Lila. Sadly, Henry learns one day that Lila will no longer be a part of his life. He has to come to terms that she’s gone. He must tell her good-bye and move on with his life, but it’s not easy. However, his family helps him learn that Jesus bring comfort to those who hurt and are sad. Grief and loss are difficult for everyone, and this book helps parents teach their child the biblical truth that God is with us, even in our pain.

Tori Comes Out of Her Shell

This book is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series. The series is designed for three- to eight-year-olds to help them understand Bible principles.

In this book, Tori is a lonely turtle. She’s new to the pond and school, and she’s struggling to fit in and make friends. Her teacher helps her realize that she’s not alone, as Jesus is her friend.

Many children will likely be able to relate to Tori’s struggles and concerns about being the “new kid.” There are questions that parents can use to help their children understand loneliness and the biblical truths that Tori’s teacher talks about. Illustrations are inviting and a perfect complement to the story.

A key verse for the story is Matthew 28:20: “I am with you always.”

Disclaimer: I received these books as part of the Read with Audra program, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.