Five Favorite Faith Based Children's Books

Several friends having babies recently found me in a children's book department scooping up copies of beloved titles to enhance these little one's bookshelves. Children's picture books can be a great source of faith based images and symbols. Here are five of my favorites...

Babushka by Sandra Ann Horn tells the story of a journey to Bethlehem to meet a special newborn baby. This is a lovely tale of a star, an angel and the swirl of mystery. What draws me into this book are the illustrations by Sophie Fatus....the camels seen on the cover are a great example of her whimsical artistic style.

I had a phase in which I was obsessed with versions of the Noah story. Maybe that's why I love making our Noah's ark stole? Regardless, Noah's Wife by Marty Rhodes Figley is one of my favorite Noah version for children. This delightful tale focuses on Noah's "very, good wife." If you're a wife you'll love the symbolic image this woman sets forth to be. She'll make you laugh and appreciate what a caring and capable person God gifted Noah with.

Speaking of women, another beloved tale is titled Mrs. Moskowitz and the Sabbath Candlesticks by Amy Schwartz.This is the winner of the National Jewish Book Award among other accolades. It focuses on ritual, tradition, family and making a home. I've enjoyed using this book when discussing keeping the Sabbath and traditions and symbols that span from our Jewish roots into our Christian faith. The author's black and white illustrations are especially charming and cozy.

An additional book filled with delightful black and white illustrations is A Children's Guide to Worship by Ruth L. Boling. This pack filled resource/story will engage children and adults alike while it defines the breadth and depth of the rhythm of liturgy. I've used it with my children at home, in classes on worship and have seen it in pew racks in church sanctuaries. If you like this you'll enjoy Ruth's other titles on worship and the seasons of the church year also.

And last but not least is One Wintry Night by Ruth Bell Graham. This is such a unique version of the Christmas story spanning from the creation story to the Resurrection. And, Richard Jesse Watson's illustrations are nothing short of amazing. They are artistic interpretations that tell the story just enough so you know what it's about but then leave you thinking and wondering. This is a great title to venture through slowly--savor it throughout the days of Advent.


What are some of your favorites?