The Lightlings
By RC Sproul
Now I know that I haven’t spent much time on this blog discussing books about or for children but I have to tell you, I found one I think is worth talking about.
The Lightlings is a simple tale with a profound message. Sproul weaves a short allegorical tale together that is engaging enough for kids to listen and weighty enough for them to profit from it. The story is a brilliant answer to the common childhood concern of fearing the dark. This book has really encouraged me as a father because I now realize what an opportunity I have when my children tell me they’re afraid of the dark. Never before (much to my shame) had I considered their fear as an opportunity to share the redemptive story of the Bible with them. This book, in my opinion, is a wonderful contextualization of the Gospel for young people. Written in way that they will understand and with illustrations they will want to see, The Lightlings is an engaging story of creation, fall, and redemption, that kids will enjoy. The story that is written on their little hearts, is presented in a way that will engage their little eyes and imaginations as well. I am really looking forward to sharing this book with my children and telling other parents about it as well.
Also of note, the book includes 13 questions (with biblical references) to spark conversations and further growth for children. Frankly, this is one of the best short children’s books I have read and I think it is a must-have for kids (and their parents!).
