Children's Everyday Bible
Kindergarten-Grade 4-Simple, lively retellings of Old and New Testament stories are presented in 366 (Leap Year is included) segments for daily reading. January 1 through July 12 includes material on creation and familiar personalities such as Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, David, Solomon, and Esther, and various lesser good and evil kings and leaders. Some are skipped over lightly, and others, such as Moses and David, are treated more thoroughly. The overriding theme is that God asks obedience from his chosen people, but they often behave rebelliously and sinfully and are punished. A chapter that tells about the Messiah and Isaiah's prophecies forms a bridge between the two parts. July 14 through December 31 is a well-connected narrative of Jesus's life, Paul, and the early church in which Jesus's healing miracles are particularly emphasized. Many parables are smoothly integrated into the stories, and all of the important events are covered. Informal watercolors, from small vignettes to full spreads, surround the text in attractive arrangements, while the vivid colors and animated, folk-style figures add charm and interest. The daily chapters can be taken out of context but are much more effective if read sequentially. The book includes Scripture citations for each story and briefly annotated lists of the principal figures. Large type, short chapters, and the placement of the illustrations enhance its appeal and readability. Although collections of Bible stories abound, this one is a good addition for younger children.Patricia Pearl Dole, formerly at First Presbyterian School, Martinsville, VACopyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.