15 Great Bible Story Books for Children to Read

If you’re looking for Bible story books to incorporate into your homeschooling curriculum or simply to read with your family at home, there are many great options available. Here are 15 well-reviewed options to consider, arranged by age recommendation:

1. “The Rhyme Bible Storybook” by L.J. Sattgast (2012)

This book is fun to read with its use of rhyme and rhythm, which make the stories and memory verses more engaging for children. The book includes both Old and New Testament stories retold with rhyming words perfect for reading aloud. It also has colorful illustrations to help children visualize the stories.

Age recommendation: All ages

2. “The Bible App for Kids Storybook Bible” by YouVersion (2019)

This stand-alone book has been praised for its interactive storytelling, fun illustrations, and thoughtful discussion format perfect for family devotions and also for Sunday school lessons. It can be used along with the Bible app for a fun read-aloud time with the family.

Age recommendation: All ages

3. “The Beginner’s Bible: Timeless Children’s Stories” by Zondervan (2016)

Perfect for little children, this book has simple and clear storytelling, as well as colorful illustrations. The book includes more than 90 stories that is a great jumping point to knowing God better.

Age recommendation: 2-6 years old

4. “The Big Picture Story Bible” by David R. Helm (2014)

This book has a clear and concise storytelling. It has been well-liked for its focus on the overarching narrative of the Bible and the redemptive plan of God. The book covers both Old and New Testament stories and includes discussion questions to help facilitate further conversation.

Age recommendation: 2-7 years old

5. “The Children’s Bible in 365 Stories” by Mary Batchelor (1995)

What’s great about this book is its readability and its approachable format, which breaks down the Bible into manageable daily readings. The book covers both Old and New Testament stories and includes vivid illustrations to help bring the stories to life.

Age recommendation: 4-7 years old

6. “The Story for Children” by Max Lucado and Randy Frazee

This book has an engaging storytelling and connects the stories to the larger narrative of God’s redemptive plan. The book is engaging for young readers and well-suited for small group or family discussions that help children know God better.

Age recommendation: 4-8 years old

7. “The Children of God Storybook Bible” by Archbishop Desmond Tutu

This book has been praised for its focus on God’s love and compassion for all people. The book includes both Old and New Testament stories with colorful illustrations from many great artists around the world with helpful information and context.

Age recommendation: 4-8 years old

8. “The Jesus Storybook Bible” by Sally Lloyd-Jones

This book has an engaging and accessible writing style. It also connects the Old and New Testament stories to Jesus and the gospel message. It has been well-praised and enjoyed by both children and adults alike.

Age recommendation: 4-8 years old.

9. “The ESV Seek and Find Bible” by Crossway

With its interactive features, children can engage with the stories and find the Scripture and illustrations that go with them throughout the text. This book is packed with helpful introduction to the books, characters, objects, places, and so on. This is perfect for transitioning children from Bible story books to reading the actual Bible.

Age recommendation: 5-9 years old

10. “The One Year Children’s Bible” by Rhona Davies (2007)

This book has 365 easy-to-read Bible stories arranged chronologically with Scripture references perfect for daily devotions or daily readings of young readers. There’s also a section that explains the life in the Bible times which is helpful for the children’s better understanding of the context.

Age recommendation: 6-10 years old

11. “The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New” by Marty Machowski

This book is an illustrated systematic theology for kids that covers a range of theological concepts, including God, sin, redemption, and more. It’s intended for kids to understand the bigger picture of the Bible so it’s filled with creative examples, engaging illustrations, and fun analogies. It’s a great book to include in your Christian children’s literature.

Age recommendation: 6-12 years old

12. “The Gospel Story Bible” by Marty Machowski

This book is well-loved for its emphasis on the gospel message and its ability to engage both children and adults. The book includes 156 stories, each with a corresponding gospel connection, making it a great resource for families who want to emphasize the centrality of the gospel in their reading.

Age recommendation: 6-12 years old

13. “The Action Bible” by Sergio Cariello

This book has been praised for its dynamic illustrations and its ability to bring the stories to life. With its comic-style graphic format, children and adults alike are easily engaged! The stories from the Bible are arranged chronologically building up towards God’s redemptive story.

Age recommendation: 8-12 years old

14. “The Children’s Illustrated Bible” by Selina Hastings

With beautiful illustrations that bring the stories to life, this book provides clear and easy-to-understand Bible stories suitable for young readers.

Age recommendation: 8-12.

15. “The Complete Illustrated Children’s Bible” by Janice Emmerson

With its comprehensive approach of both Old and New Testament stories, helpful notes and explanations, and colorful illustrations, this book is a great help for children to better understand the stories.

Age recommendation: 8-12 years old

Conclusion

Remember that these books may have different theological perspectives and further research may be necessary to choose that which aligns with your family’s beliefs, values, needs, and preferences. Additionally, some of the books may not cover all of the stories in the Bible or may omit certain details. Take the time to read reviews and research different options to find the best fit for your family.

No matter which book of Bible stories you choose, reading and talking about them with your family can be a great way to deepen your faith and understanding of God’s message.