Popular author and illustrator Sandy Silverthorne writes “tongue-in-cheek” short stories of lesser known Bible characters for youngster’s age’s eight to twelve. He uses imaginative cartoon caricatures and drawings to introduce children to everyday people God used in amazing ways in this Awesome Book of Unusual Bible Heroes for Kids.
Although historically and biblically accurate, accounts are presented with modern-day dialogue, such as “…tell you what…Naw, he’d probably just say no…oh great…” Stories begin with a short summary, where the narrative is found in scripture and the author’s embellishment of the story. Accounts end with an age-appropriate devotional, “The Big Picture” that includes the life-lesson of the story. From these, children learn underlying story meanings and gain an understanding of how different accounts might apply to them.
Twenty stories include accounts such as Hold Your Horses: David and Abigail, In His Majesty’s Secret Service: Ahimaaz and Jonathan and Too Hot to Handle: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego.
For example, in Esther and Mordecai’s story Queen for this Day, found in the book of Esther, teaches children how an orphan girl became Queen and saved the Jewish race from the plot of the King’s “evil advisor” Haman.
The Big Picture explains how God uses people He trusts to advance His plans. In this case, Esther was born for such a time as this to save the Jewish people. The devotional ends with a question about gifts and talents that could be used to bless others and encourages children to ask God “…to show them how.”
I especially like Silverthorne’s imaginative dialogue, modernized narrative and captivating illustrations that kept me, an adult, captivated. I know the stories will engage youngster’s imaginations and leave them asking for more as they learn about these exciting and unusual heroes of the Bible.
‘Awesome Book of Unusual Bible Heroes for Kids’ by Sandy Silverthorne, Harvest House Publishers, 2012, Ages 8-12, 144 Pages, 978-0736929257, $8.99
Who are God’s Heroes?
People just like you!
The heroes of the Bible aren’t always the biggest, strongest, smartest, or most popular people. In fact, as you’re about to see, God seems to prefer to do amazing things through people who simply are willing to follow Him. Look inside, and you’ll meet…
- Two boys who became undercover agents for King David
- Two nurses who helped save an entire nation
- People with unhappy lives—until they met Jesus, and everything changed
Who know what special assignment God might have for you! These Bible stories, which include some fun modern-day twists and hilarious cartoons, show that when you look to God for direction and help, He can do wonderful things in your life. He can even make you a hero!
SANDY SILVERTHORNE has been writing and illustrating books since 1988. His award-winning Great Bible Adventure children's series sold more than 180,000 copies and has been distributed worldwide in eight languages. He's worked with Focus on the Family, Universal Studios, and the Charlotte Hornets.
Twitter: @GailWelborn
FaceBook: Gail Welborn
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