Embracing faith

Coop Messes Up

Sarah Reju
(New Growth Press 2024)

Coop the car struggles to do what he is supposed to do, so his sister Lucy offers to teach him how to obey all the rules. As Lucy gives him a crash course in a long list of driving do’s and don’ts, Coop’s confidence in his abilities grows—until he and Lucy overlook their gas tanks and find themselves stranded. When their mother comes to the rescue, they’re ashamed—until she tells them she loves them unconditionally just like God loves her, even when she messes up. In the conclusion, author Sarah Reju connects the story to the good news of the gospel, reminding children that no one can obey perfectly—but God loves them and sent His perfect Son to make a way for them to be with Him in heaven. Ages 4-7

God’s Little Astronomer

Tina Cho
(Waterbrook 2024)

Cho takes children on a journey into outer space in this first book from the God’s Little Explorers series that focuses on science through the lens of faith. Children will learn about the basics of astronomy as Cho shares brief details about galaxies, stars, planets, and the moon. Every spread includes a Scripture verse about the heavens and the earth, and the text emphasizes God’s power and majesty ­displayed in His created order. The conclusion rightly notes that while the wonders of space are amazing and exhibit “God’s wondrous love,” God sees us as “His most special creation in all the universe.” Ages 4-8

The King of All Things

Shay & Catherine Gregorie
(Wolfbane Books 2024)

This poetic board book opens by declaring, “Father in heaven, you’re the King of All Things—Creation springs from the songs you sing!” The subsequent pages continue with proclamations of God’s power and creativity manifested from the wind and mountains to the birds and the whales. The final page offers a scripted prayer about God’s wondrous works that parents can pray with their children. Breezy Brookshire’s soft illustrations reflect the book’s message, and one spread featuring Jesus has His face turned away so only His back and a bit of His profile can be seen. The book would make a lovely bedtime read-aloud for little ones. Ages 2-5

Pilipinto

Valerie Elliot Shepard
(P&R 2023)

In this revamped and reissued edition, Shepard shares her story of growing up in the jungles of Ecuador where her famous ­parents served as ­missionaries. After her father’s death, Valerie—called Pilipinto by the Quechua Indians—and her mother Elisabeth stay to serve. From trekking through the Amazon to eating termites and keeping a pet monkey, Valerie delights in her unusual childhood. The book’s chapters focus on themes and phases from her childhood, showcasing God’s ­provision and care for mother and daughter amid a foreign and often dangerous world. Interspersed among the pages are photos from the author’s early years as well as memories of a young Valerie that her mother recorded in her journal. Ages 6-10