Reflections of home and heaven

Like Me

Laura Wifler
(Harvest House 2023)

In Like Me, Wifler gives readers a peek into what life is sometimes like for families with children living with ­disability. The story ­follows an older brother as he narrates his day, highlighting the ways family and friends ­interact with and care for a younger brother. Although he sometimes struggles with the needs of his brother, he also finds joy in their special relationship. Wifler’s words affirm the value and worth of every individual while also helping children see that even though we may be different in how we look or act, “We all give [God] glory in different ways, and if we look closely, we can learn a little bit about God through each of them.” Ages 4-8

Oh, the Treasures You’ll Know!

Dan Olson
(10Publishing 2022)

In this parody of Dr. Seuss’ Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, Olson has crafted a witty, faith-filled read about staying on the narrow path to heaven. With Seuss-like wording and rhyme, the story cautions against being led astray by the false gods of power, possessions, and pleasure, and urges instead to “run for the crown!” Although sin’s curse will at times cause some Christ-followers to stumble or stray, Olson reminds readers they can have hope because God is faithful in seeking His lost sheep. While Seuss’ classic book has long served as a gift for graduates, Olson’s version would make a great alternative for those seeking Biblical wisdom paired with a bit of whimsy. Ages 5+

The Story of Home

Caroline Saunders
(B&H Kids 2023)

Saunders’ picture book explores the arc of God’s redemption plan through the idea of home. She begins with the first home in the Garden of Eden, a ­perfect dwelling until the serpent intruded, deceived, and destroyed. In the years that follow, God’s people experience cycles of homesickness and homecomings manifested in their bondage in Egypt, the Tabernacle in the wilderness, their arrival in the Promised Land, the Temple construction, and their eventual dispersal. The book culminates with Jesus leaving His perfect home in heaven to defeat the intruder and thereby make a way through all the homesickness for people to come home to Him. Ages 4-8

Taste & See

Irene Sun
(New Growth Press 2022)

This lyrical book centers on the concept of food in the Bible and how God demonstrates His goodness and love through His ongoing provision. Sun opens with God’s gift of food in Eden before highlighting how God faithfully fed His people even when they were unfaithful and ungrateful. The book concludes with Jesus, the “broken bread and poured out wine,” and how we can look forward to the marriage supper of the Lamb. Sun’s endnotes provide helpful suggestions for teaching Biblical theology to children: “The Lord has given us parents visible things to teach our children his invisible attributes. In eating and drinking the Lord’s provision (visible), we taste and see his grace and mercy (invisible).” Ages 5-9