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My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh. Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.
Proverbs 4:20-23, ESV
In previous posts I’ve offered a selection of storybook bibles for babies and toddlers (see blog links below). These books offer condensed versions of bible stories, with simplified language young children can readily understand. In typical story bibles, the narratives are accompanied by brightly colored, engaging images. The omission of much (not all) violent or ‘adult’ content is common. (For example, many include David & Goliath, but not Jael or Tamar). Some storybook bibles even offer questions for engagement and comprehension or a simple prayer at the conclusion of each selection.
As your child matures it is important that their knowledge of scripture grows as well. Story bibles are paraphrased interpretations of God’s word. As their reading and understanding advances, it is important to introduce your child to more complex passages, if not an actual bible translation containing the entirety of God’s word.
Chapter books are often introduced around age 6-7 years of age. This is an appropriate time to transition a child to a bible more suited to their advancing reading skills. Some kids will be ready for a full-text version of the bible, while others will need to advance more slowly. Consider your child’s sensitivities/temperament, attention span, comprehension skills, and vocabulary when shopping.
In this blog I have included a wide selection of options from complete/full text bibles to books with select, paraphrased stories. A brief explanation accompanies each book. For more details, click on the image to view the listing on Amazon.
In a future post I will focus on and compare only bibles for kids which contain the complete (full text) word of God. Many translations have full-text bibles published specifically for kids.
Remember, the most important consideration is that the bible will be read! A dusty bible benefits no one!
I hope you enjoy this list. Please let me know if there are any kids’ bibles that you love that I did not include.
The Adventure Bible
Full text of the Bible written at a 3rd grade level. With teaching sidebars.
Age 6-10 years
2014, Zonderkidz
1584 pages
Hardcover
ESV The Biggest Story Holy Bible
Full text of the Bible. “Learn, reflect, discover & pray” prompts.
Age 6-12 years
2025, Kevin DeYoung
1680 pages
Hardcover
The Bible Made Easy for Kids
Summaries of Bible stories with explanations of biblical concepts. Illustrated.
Age 7+
2014 Dave Strehler
380 pages
Softcover
CSB Kid’s Bible
Complete biblical text.
Full-color maps.
Presentation page.
Study helps.
Age 7-12 years
2018, Holman
1568 pages
Hardcover
The Child’s Story Bible
A classic! Longer stories good for older kids. Written from a Reformed worldview. Age 4-10 years.
1983, Catherine Vos
382 pages
Hardcover
Egermeier’s Bible Story Book
With 312 stories, this Bible includes many oft-left out Bible stories from the Old and New Testaments. Includes questions. Age 5+
2008, Elsie Egermeier
648 pages
Hardcover
The Gospel Story Bible
156 stories. Christ-centered, the theme of sin and salvation is woven throughout. Includes discussion questions.
Age 5-11 years.
2011, Marty Machowski
328 pages
Hardcover
The Classic Children’s Bible Storybook
200 stories retold for children’s understanding. With learning verses and key lessons. Age 5+
2011,Christian Art Kids
420 pages
Hardcover
Read my other Bible for Kids blogs:
Bibles for Kids Ages 2-6 Years
Bibles for Babies and Toddlers
Other books about the Bible for Kids
