Christian parents of young children have often relied on Bible story books to help simplify the Bible for their kids. Often the stories are fine, although the introduction of the NIrV version of the Bible has made them less necessary than in the past.
I am always interested though in finding quality Christian books for children. Recently, I was offered the opportunity to review a new book Psalms for Little Hearts by Dandi Daley Mackall.
I have to admit when I first opened the book, I was a bit confused. I expected the book to be filled with the Psalms – perhaps paraphrased – with illustrations or even explanatory discussion. Instead, each “Psalm” actually is a song/poem – I’m not really sure how to describe it – with another comment underneath each few lines in another color of ink. Then in small print at the end of each one the actual Psalm is printed.
The main problem I have with this format is that the words of the author aren’t really any easier than the original Psalm in the NIrV version. Mackall’s writings do more or less line up with the Psalm, but it just all felt forced to me in some way.
I can’t say that there is anything inherently wrong with the book. The illustrations are pleasant, but I still keep wondering if the authors words are really all that more simple than the original Psalm. Why not just let God’s Words take the lead and then add your explanations after?
I am not particularly snobby about this sort of thing in children’s literature- if it draws them to want to read the actual Bible as a result. I’m just not sure this book quite manages to accomplish that task.
This book was given to me for free in exchange for my honest review. An affiliate link is included for your convenience.