Changed my clocks and forgot what day it was! I almost forgot to put up my Sunday book reviews.

Two fun Christian books today. One great for early readers, especially boy readers, the other a sweet Christmas story.

Adventure Bible: Elijah, God’s Mighty Prophet

Adventure Bible Series

Pictures by David Miles

Meet Elijah, a faithful servant of God. Elijah was a prophet and told the people of Israel that God was not happy with them but they did not listen. A drought plagued the land because they turned away from God. Elijah listens to God and wants to help the people of Israel, but what can he do? Can Elijah help the people of Israel hear God’s word?

Part of the “Adventure Bible, I Can Read” series, “Elijah, God’s Mighty Prophet” illustrated by David Miles retells the biblical story of Elijah the prophet. The story is engaging and well told, and the pictures are exciting and interesting. Elijah comes to life through the words and pictures, in a way children will understand. As part of a series, this is a great way to introduce children to the Bible. Early independent readers, especially boys, will love this exciting lesson from the Bible. An excellent addition to any home or church library.

If He Had Not Come

Originally written by Nan F. Weeks

Reintroduced by David Nicholson

Illustrated by Charles Jaskiewicz

Bobby is excited to go to bed because when he wakes up it will be Christmas! He’s excited to see what’s in the presents under the tree, but he’s also thinking about the story his Dad read to him. It was the story of Jesus and now, despite his excitement for Christmas and presents, he can’t get Jesus’s words out of his head. “If I had not come” Bobby thinks about this verse over and over. He falls asleep thinking about it and when he awakens, the world is a different place. In this world where Jesus did not come, there is no Christmas. It isn’t just the lack of a holiday that makes the world different. People are angry and rude. Bobby doesn’t like this world. Is this what the world would have been like if Jesus had not come?

“If He Had Not Come” intertwines the celebration of Christmas with the story of Jesus, drawing inspiration from John 15:22, “If I had not come”. The story explores a world in which Jesus did not exist. Jesus was never born so there is no Christmas, but what else would be different? The reader, and Bobby will discover that these five words make a profound statement on how different life could have been. Children may not be drawn in by the cover illustration, but this sweet, touching read perfect for Christmas or anytime of the year.

Thank you to BookLook Bloggers and Harper Collins Christian Publishing for copies of these books in exchange for my honest review.