Summer is a time to read!
While there are many Christian books I find that there are also many “secular” books, which have strong faith themes. These books offer a Christian message and a platform to share faith with others. This selection of older offerings is an opportunity to revisit some beloved books while focusing on their faith-based messages.
So, have you recently read …
Picture Books and Early Readers
One, Zero, and Two (three separate books) Written and illustrated by Kathryn Otoshi
A truly beautiful set of books. The theme of each book varies but all reinforce the ideas of individual strength and talents, acceptance of difference and others, and the importance of teamwork and interpersonal relationships.
Because of You Written by B. G. Hennessy, illustrated by Hiroe Nakata
A glorious reminder that we all have a place in the world and we all make a difference. A celebration of everyone born to this Earth and the unique opportunities and talents they bring to our world.
Emerging Readers
Cul-de-Sac Kids Series Written by Beverly Lewis
A great set of chapter books for early readers. The faith based themes reinforce the ideas of teamwork, friendship and growth through exploration.
Mr. Popper’s Penguins Written by Richard and Florence Atwater
Becoming the unexpected guardian of penguins offers humorous incidents and growth as Mr. Popper finds personal inner strength and patience to take on this new responsibly.
The Grandma’s Attic Series
This series has been around for quite a while but it is still a worthy summer read. These books are filled with gentle, sweet stories about of an earlier time and place as explored by a young girl who discovers the past of her grandmother through artifacts she encounters in the attic.
Tweens
The Secret Garden Written by Frances Hodgson Burnett
The parallel to the Garden of Eden is easily recognized but there are many religious themes hidden in the book. Recognizing personal talents, personal growth through outreach, strength in believes and faith, and support of others just to name of few of the Christian themes illustrated in this beautiful and heart warming story.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Written by Roald Dahl
The religious themes in this book are carefully woven into the story of each child and how they face temptation. There is also the fantastical world designed and overseen by a creator seeking the worthy in those who surround him.
Schooled Written by Gordon Korman
This story is a humorous exploration of how kids interact and treat each other with a focus on the social problem of bullying. A young boy entering a new school situation becomes the target of eighth grade torment.
Teens and Adults
A Wrinkle in Time Written by Madeleine L’Engle
Often thought of as a book for younger readers this science fiction classic for all ages. The challenging themes touch on the nature of God and the existence of evil and allows readers to explore the mysteries of the universe and it’s creator.
Passage and Miracle (two separate books) Written by Connie Willis
Much of Willis’ works includes religious themes wrapped in science fiction.
Passage tells of near-death experiences that are time travel intertwined. Miracle takes place at modern Christmas pageant rehearsal where Joseph and Mary arrive at the church doors.
My Name is Asher Lev Written by Chaim Potok
We all have faced tension and conflict between following our calling and balancing our social community. This novel explores the need to follow one’s call and the desire to remain true to a community. This novel explores the intersections of faith, art, responsibility and expectations within a Hasidic Jewish community.
Have a great summer reading good books! ~ Kennis
