We all know what it’s like to see our favourite book made into a movie – the delight when it’s done well, the frustration when it’s not. But let me introduce you to some writers who have taken well-known Christian hymns as their inspiration for a children’s book.
The first is by Sinclair B. Ferguson: Jesus Strong and Kind (ISBN 978 1 527 110 007). Ferguson has taken the key theological points from Colin Buchanan’s much-loved children’s hymn and dug deeper into God’s word showing where the truths of
these lyrics are rooted.
Written in a conversational style this could be read over several days with a 5–7 year-old or read by an 8–11 year-old on their own. The main theme of the song is that when you are thirsty; weak; afraid and lost – you can always come to Jesus, Jesus strong and kind. Ferguson builds on that truth by returning to the story of the Samaritan woman at the well; Jairus’ daughter, the woman with the issue of blood; the calming of the storm, and the parables of the lost sheep and the lost son.
With QR codes inside that direct you to the lyrics and a recording, this book is ideal for children and families, whether they are familiar with the original composition or not.
Words unchanged
Amazing Grace by Mark Restaino (ISBN 978 1 087 892 214). This is an independently published book. The illustrations sweetly illustrate the truths of John Newton’s iconic hymn without doing anything cheesy such as changing the words. I love that the word ‘wretch’ is left in this book, allowing a child to ask what the word means – and hopefully have it explained and discussed at a spiritual level.
This next title has not been printed yet. I’ve pre-ordered it on Amazon and it’s called It Is Well With My Soul (ISBN 978 0 736 989 497). The original words of the hymn by Horatio Spafford are set against the backdrop of two children and their adventures. This hymn shows us how the Lord Jesus is the one that we can trust in eternally.
Here are some other notable mentions that are books inspired by hymns or psalms:
Found (ISBN 978 0 310 757 504). Psalms For My Day (ISBN 978 1 527 101 814). Wonderful (ISBN 978 1 948 130 745). God is King (ISBN 978 1 781 911 334).
