We’ve just started reading ‘The Big Picture Story Bible’ to our kids and it’s fantastic. We can’t recommend it enough. If you’re looking for a kids bible to read to your children or as a gift to give away, this is the one.

There are two reasons to like this bible. Firstly – as the title suggests – the pages of this bible are full of big bright captivating pictures that brilliantly illustrate the message. And secondly – taking the double meaning of the title – this bible clearly presents ‘the big picture’ of God’s promises that carry through from Genesis through to Revelation. In this way, this kids bible is quite unique. Any kids bible selectively chooses the stories from the bible to tell – usually the stories that are the most exciting and entertaining. But such a selective pick of events usually leaves you wondering what’s the connection between them all. But with ‘The Big Picture Story Bible’ it tells the story of the different events in a way that shows you that it’s all part of one big story – God promises to fix up the probem of rebellious hearts – that all culminates with Jesus. The thing about this kids bible – the author and illustrator have really thought through how to acutally ‘teach’ the message of the bible and it comes through with the pictures, the clear wording, the no-nonense explanation of ‘taboo’ subjects like sin/death/judgement, and the careful selection of what parts of the bible to include.

This is a great resource for children. And the added bonus – you’ll learn yourself when you’re reading it your kids. Kirsty and I certainly have.

The Big Picture Story Bible, David Helm and Gail Schoonmaker, Crossway Books.