Always on the hunt for new kid’s books, we’ve explored several different series. We have roamed countless bookstores and libraries since reading is important to us. It’s honestly one of our favorite family activities. These are three that we’ve enjoyed this last week.

Gus Loses His Grip by David Powlison. This book is helpful for talking to our kids about “wanting” more stuff. We can quickly move from “I’d like to have this” to “I must have this.” Wanting can often start off being a good thing like wanting something sweet to eat, but quickly turns into too much. The whole family learns this lesson throughout the book. It helps us learn that we do not need as much as we think we do. But also that there is grace and mercy for people who fall into this kind of temptation. In a world of ads and media that tries to sell us more and more, covetousness can easily creep in. This is a great resource for talking to our kids about the “wantsies.”

Henry Says Goodbye by Edward T. Welch. I loved this one, because it helps us talk about sadness with our kids. Most of our kids will lose a pet or go through some kind of sad experience while they are in our home. While we hate to see them face hardship, we know they will. So why not teach them how to deal with their sorrow? Why not lead them to Jesus who can help them? This is a great tool for starting that conversation.

Tori Comes Out of Her Shell by Jayne V. Clark. This book is a great way to help a child who is facing loneliness. Some kids naturally love to be around people and others need more alone time. I have kids who fit both of those categories! But it is important to notice that being alone and needing time to recharge is different than feeling alone. That taps into feeling disconnected or even isolated from everyone around them. That might mean feeling ignored or rejected. That can often move kids into deeper isolation so they don’t keep getting hurt. Tori is a cute turtle that learns to come out of her shell and will help us teach our children how to face loneliness.

These books are among the few that we’ve found that offer Good News to little hearts. These stories drew us in because they are relatable and perfect for kids aged three to eight years old. The bright illustrations welcomed us into the detailed animal world. But these books did not offer moralism, but extend real practical ways to follow Jesus through difficult situations. I loved the talking points and scripture cards at the end. I was genuinely shocked at what a great conversation these books led us into as a family.