Four Christian writers share why they write books for children—and their recommendations for school libraries.
Sharing the greatest story—when we’re most curious and eager to learn
“Childhood is that time in our life when we are most curious, inquisitive, and eager to learn new things about ourselves and others, and the world around us. Childhood is also the time when our core beliefs and values begin to be formed and take shape. Good thing children love stories!
As a Christian, I believe that the greatest and most important story ever told is the gospel. I also believe that the values of the Kingdom of God are the foundation on which a person can build toward a meaningful life ordained by God.
As a writer, I think that the most opportune time to share the gospel and introduce kingdom values is during childhood. And the most effective way to do this is by telling stories. Also, I serve the One who said, “Let the little children come to me.” (Matthew 19:14) That’s why I write books that will draw children to Christ.
I’d recommend The Most Important Story Ever Told (TMIS) for school libraries. It’s a 32-page comic book that tells the gospel story in an appealing format, teaching kids about God, creation, the fall through sin, the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, and how they can become a child of God. TMIS has been translated into over 20 languages, including Tagalog (which I’ve been given the opportunity to translate), and has been used by countless ministries serving children.” Yna Reyes, Philippines
Delighting children in biblical principles conveyed in beautiful books
“When my granddaughter was about 18 months old, someone gave her a book called God’s Great Love for You.
Once it was read to her, it became her must-read every single night. Even though she might be too young to fully grasp the message, the rhythm of the words and the splendor of the illustrations captured her attention and imagination completely. While sitting on my lap, she would gaze at a page for minutes on end, utterly fascinated by the drawings and the warmth of the embrace.
That’s the magic of placing a Christian storybook in a toddler’s hands.
I know firsthand the power of a high-quality Christian book to hook a child. The stories delight them, while biblical principles quietly take root in their hearts for life.
That’s why I want to write for children—God uses these books to draw young hearts to Him.” Sophia Wong, USA
Communicating our God-given identity as beloved and forgiven
“I write children’s books which weave in underlying Christian themes of love, affirmation, forgiveness and knowing our God-given identity. In my own publishing imprint, my four Mustard Seed Books include a short testimony in my author blurb and how my books are inspired by my personal journey and faith.
Given the underlying Christian themes, Our Daily Bread Ministries (ODB) adapted two of my Toy Titles into Christian editions, translated into Mandarin. A little mustard seed baked into daily bread, as I call it! ODB Taiwan printed around 100,000 copies of Just Teddy and Bunny Finds the Right Stuff.” Emily Lim-Leh, Singapore
Shaping character as readers see the story of redemption in fresh ways
“I write Christian books for kids because books help to shape a child’s worldview, basic assumptions, character, and choices, and these in turn influence the kind of person the child would grow up to be and the kind of life he or she would live.
I learned to love reading while I was very young, and the books I read and reread as a child and as a teen helped to shape who I am today. They had a significant impact on my personal development and my relationship with the Lord as well.
Aside from the Bible, a book series I would recommend for all schools would be The Chronicles of Narnia because it retells the story of redemption in a fresh way. It can open a window to the gospel. By catching a reflection of Christ through the character of Aslan, kids may want to know Him better in our world.
For Philippine schools, I would suggest MA-I Komiks, a graphic novel book series drawn in manga style published by Kawangis. The series incorporates elements from Philippine mythology, history, and culture. It’s entertaining, educational, local—and can spark interest in kids who are not currently fond of books. Similar to the Narnia series, Christian themes shine through, and there’s a character who wonderfully represents Christ.” Daffodil Dedel, Philippines
Related stories and resources
- Livros cristãos para crianças e adolescentes: Por que se preocupar? – a webinar with Janet Wilson
- Do People Still Read Books? 21 Christian Publishers and Authors From Across the Globe Share What’s Selling Well—and Why
- Creating Compelling Content for Children – an interview with Shantal de Odicio