I love beautiful books. Especially books that are created for children but illustrated in a manner that is aesthetically pleasing to adults. Books that have interesting visual details. I am also naturally drawn to bold bright colors.
The illustrations in the new book, The Biggest Story by Kevin De Young are breathtaking. You can really feel Illustrator, Don Clarks passion and understanding of the author’s story.
Now most book reviews include a detailed description of the actually story but this book is THE story and just like the title says, THE BIGGEST STORY. It is the amazing, lovely, hope filled story of our sweet Jesus and how he saves the world.
In the parent notes, Kevin De Young explains how this book originally started as a Christmas sermon and you can sense that through the simple, yet authentic retelling of familiar stories. I really appreciate how the author weaves through the traditional messages of God’s promises leading us to the character he calls The Snake Crusher.
I love this euphemism for my Lord. The Snake Crusher. Truly that is one of the most descriptive literally images I have yet to see used to refer to Jesus. Isn’t he truly just that? The Snake Crusher. From the beginning of the Bible until the very last page, God’s sole purpose is to lead us all back to the garden where we will be with Him again.
The Biggest Story is a eloquent retelling of the Bible in simple child like portions. It breathes a fresh new approach to teaching children about God’s infinite promises. I enjoyed reading the book to my daughter. Even though she has grown up with the Biblical stories, the writers unique perspective and style caused her to ask many questions which led to great discussion.
My older son was fascinated with the illustrations, particularly the darker ones. He can read independently but instead of reading from the beginning, He enjoyed trying to “guess” the story based on the illustration on the page. The darker illustrations seemed to open up new thought processes on what he was really reading in the Bible and how those stories were interpreted.
Personally, I really like this book and hope that it becomes one of those treasured parts of our library. Even though the book is meant to be read from start to finish, Like my son, I find myself flipping to particular images that capture my attention and then reading from that point. The written word and the illustrations really speak to my heart.
If you are looking for a unique scripture inspired book to add to your home library, I would encourage you to purchase The Biggest Story but Kevin DeYoung.
About the book:Hardcover: 132 pagesPublisher: Crossway (August 31, 2015)In The Biggest Story, Kevin DeYoung – a best-selling author and father of six – leads kids and parents alike on an exciting journey through the Bible, connecting the dots from the garden of Eden to Christ’s death on the cross to the new heave and new earth. With powerful illustrations by award-winning artist Don Clark, this imaginative retelling of the Bible’s core message-how the Snake Crusher brings us back to the garden-will draw children into the biblical story, teaching them that God’s promises are even bigger and better than we think.
“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”
What a beautiful cover! This book would be wonderful for any family, but specifically….I have a child (on the spectrum) that is drawn to anything bold, bright, and colorful. It’s like her eyes connect with pictures on a different level than words can. So, while I know all 7 of my kiddos would love if we read from this book during bible time…I know a few would beg to take it to bed with them to pour over the illustrations and just soak it in all the more.