Home Is Right Where You Are

by Ruth Chou Simons

Bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons shares a message of comfort and peace inspired by Psalm 23: when you are with God, home is always right where you are.

Ruth shares from her heart the words she's spoken over her own six children, from their very young days into adulthood. Ruth's lyrical text and whimsical art take children and families on a journey that reminds all of us that no matter where we go, no matter what comes our way in life, the Lord keeps us close to Him.

This book is perfect for parents and families who want to

reassure their children with the comforting truth that God is always with them, that He will guide them, and that He will provide for all their needs;teach their children that God is the source of joy, overflowing blessings, and wonderful adventure;be delighted with captivating illustrations and beautiful art; andsoothe anxious minds with the comfort of God's provision and presence.Home Is Right Where You Are makes a perfect gift for

baby showers, new mothers, births, or adoptions;graduations, milestones, and other big life events; andChristmas, birthdays, Easter, and other gift-giving occasions.Home Is Right Where You Are is bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons's first children's book—a beautiful treasure of God's promises combined with her moving art.

Genres: Picture Books, Christian, Childrens, Christian Living, Family, Christianity, Faith

32 pages, Hardcover

First published September 24, 2024

About the author

Ruth Chou Simons is a Wall Street Journal bestselling and award-winning author of several books and Bible studies, including GraceLaced, Beholding and Becoming, When Strivings Cease, and Now and Not Yet. She is an artist, podcaster, speaker, and the founder, CEO, and Chief Creative Officer of GraceLaced, an art and lifestyle brand. Simons uses each of these platforms to spiritually sow the Word of God into people’s hearts, making deep truths beautifully accessible with her signature art and relatable communication style.

Simons has been featured on Good Morning America, Fox, Christianity Today, and Hallmark Home and Family. Ruth and her husband, Troy, live in Western Colorado and are grateful parents to six boys—their greatest adventure.

Connect with Ruth on social media at @ruthchousimons.

Reviews

[Lidia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters,
He refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for His name's sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
Your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil,
my cup overflows.
Surely Your goodness
and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever- Psalm 23

BEAUTIFUL!!!!!

[Morgan Giesbrecht · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short, rich children’s book brimming with biblical truths on the character and care of God! It’s succinct enough to be understood by kiddos while deep enough for older hearts who need reminders of the Shepherd’s care.

[Gabrielle Stoller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely stunning book (I expected nothing less from Ruth). This book will be definitely given to my Christian friends who have babies. It's a mother's love letter to her child (which I love Ruth depicts a boy. Like her sons) and her wish for her child to walk with the Lord.

It truly is a way to introduce Psalm 23 as well. Truths made simple and yet theologically sound.

Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced review copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised by this one! A scripturally inspired picture book made with boys in mind while also being aesthetically pleasing! Who knew that would be so hard to find. Thoughtful writing and thoughtful illustrations for the win here. I especially loved the “map” of the journey through the psalm.

[Laura and Literature · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought a few for Christmas gifts and just read through. 🥹 so sweet and can’t wait to read to my kiddos.

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This rhyming-poem book, inspired by Psalm 23, is beautifully illustrated. The biblical concept of God being the "Dwelling Place" of His children is the overall theme. Be sure to read “A Word from the Author,” in which Ruth Chou Simons shares the reasons behind her writing the book for her six sons. Note: Grammarians, poets, and rational thinkers will have to overlook some flaws, some uneven meter, and an illogically-stated point in the last 4 lines. Regrettably, the book doesn't mention Jesus at all or the need to accept Him as Savior and Lord in order to be God's child. Regardless, this comforting book is a sweet reminder for young and old believers as it describes how the Good Shepherd is always a home for His sheep and is with them wherever we are.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This wonderful children's book is inspired by Psalm 23. The author's introductory words is a message of hope and a reminder of the promises of God.

The author's story, Home is Right Where You Are, you will find within the pages a message of encouragement and hope. It's a joy to read for adult's as well as children. The words will touch your heart and fill your soul with comfort and peace.

The illustrations accompany the story beautifully; a vision of the world that God created for each of us and a reminder of his love and truth. They are done in gorgeous watercolor style and flow well throughout the pages.

The story touched my heart filling it with warmth. It is a beautiful book you will want to read many times and is a wonderful addition to your home or church library.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Elisabeth Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruth does an incredible job explaining profound biblical truths in simple and tender ways in this picture book. The illustrations are beautiful and draw in readers of all ages. Psalm 23 holds so many core truths and I know this book will be a blessing to anyone who picks it up.

[Relyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruth Chou Simmon's watercolor illustrations are gorgeous. This would be a wonderful book card for a baby shower. Have you ever participate in those?

[Madison Drew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful interpretation of Psalm 23 with gorgeous illustrations!

[Rebekah Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated and thoughtfully written, this book is a wonderful explanation of Psalm 23 for children and a fresh reminder for adults.

[Linda Nare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Text based on Psalm 23 and illustrated with Ruth Chow Simon's art.

[Harper Coverston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous artwork. Beautiful message. Perfect for ages 0-99!! Seriously, what a perfect gift for people of all ages!

[Laura Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Home is Right Where You Are by Ruth Chou Simons~ A Review

I'd like to introduce you to a marvelous new book by Ruth Chou Simons: HOME is RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE, Inspired by Psalm 23. I read Mrs. Simons' introduction, A Word from the Author. It touched my heart. She wrote this for her six sons, some of whom are now adults, to help them remember "that the love and faithfulness of God is incomparable." It's written for adults who may be launching their beloved children into the adult world. It's written for children who are learning the love and faithfulness of God. It is written for me as a reminder of the goodness of the LORD.

The overwhelming feeling that came over me as I read was calmness and peace. The book is written in a poetry format with couplets and rhymes, but I was so enthralled by the author's illustrations, it all just flowed together to form a composite of the love and care of our Heavenly Father. Rather than illustrate the 23rd Psalm, this book brings the principles to a beautiful fruition in the retelling and paintings.

This book is for my grandson, B, who is just over a year old. He's too young yet to understand, but I hope that Mommy will read it to him as he grows with it. We never are never too young or too old for the Word of God. The Psalm is written in its entirety at the back of the book.

I highly recommend this book. It's one that will grow with your children, plant the concepts of God's love and faithfulness in their hearts, and touch your heart as well.

Thank you FrontGate for this review copy.

#ruthchousimons #homeisrightwhereyouare #psalm23 @tommynelsonbooks @ruthchousimons

[Danielle Amedee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely beautiful. The words, the water color illustrations... from start to finish, it was stunning. The book is based on Pslam 23 with the core roots branching from your children leaving the "nest."

Beautiful work and story! Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Psalm 23 is the song of one who has traveled with God and knows--without a shadow of a doubt--that He provides, shelters, comforts, and leads His people through every beautiful and hard place of life's journey. What more could a parent wish for a child than to sing that song? ~ Ruth Chou Simons

With her signature artistic flair, Ruth Chou Simons gives us a new look at Psalm 23. As noted in her quote (a part of the introductory letter to the book), this is a message to her six boys and reminder of what they have been taught.

If you are looking for a baby gift, graduation gift, new grandparent gift, or a book to share with your own children; look no further. This new title will be available on September 24, 2024.

For when God is with you. . .
Home is right where you are.



Thank you to Tommy Nelson and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.

[Emily Waits (emilylovesreading_) · Rating 5 out of 5]

{Thank you so much to @tommynelsonbooks and @ruthchousimons for the privilege of being part of the launch team for this beautiful book. All opinions are my own.}

“Listen close, my sweet child,
To this one thing I know.
Let’s walk together–
Hold my hand as we go…”

I’ll start by saying: I couldn't love this sweet book more.

Ruth Chou Simons has given us another breathtakingly beautiful book. This book, full of Ruth's incredible artwork, teaches children the truths found in Psalm 23. This lyrical book flows so well and is full of goodness and truth. Our family will read this book again and again!

Home is Right Where You Are and its sweet message comes with perfect timing for our military family. I can already see the ways that this book is already and will continue to minister to our children as they move around and experience all the feelings that come with being a child of an active duty service member.

Picture books are powerful tools, and I’m so thankful to have this one to read aloud when we all need the Psalm 23 reminders this book shares. This is a book you’ll definitely want to have a physical copy of for your family!

And, even if you don't have children, read this sweet book to yourself. You won’t regret it.

Highly recommend!

[Becky of Becky's Bookshelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Home is Right Where You Are inspired by Psalm 23 written and illustrated by Ruth Chou Simons is one of the most beautiful picture books I have seen and read in a very long time. In the book you follow a child as the parent presents the paraphrased words of Psalm 23 to encourage and uplift a child. The text and words are stunning!
I have reread the story about five times in the last week. The words are very comforting and speak deeply to the heart of children and adults. The watercolor pictures are stunning, peaceful and enhance the wonderful text. I made my 12 years sit through the book because I wanted him to know the words from the story.

I would recommend this ideally for children ages 4-8 years old. To me this a book you would buy for each of your children that they would take with them into adulthood. My thought is that both the parent and child would treasure the memories of reading this together.

It would be lovely gift for a child’s a birthday, new baby’s arrival, baby shower or Christmas. I highly recommend Home is Right Where You Are written and illustrated by Ruth Chou Simons. This will be a highlight for me for 2024.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

[Alison (readinginazaleawoods) · Rating 5 out of 5]

🧡 WHAT I LOVE: Everything! But I especially love Ruth’s attention detail on every page, her heart behind the message, and of course her beautiful watercolor illustrations!
 
🐕 WHO IS IT FOR: Children ages 3+.
 
This would also make a wonderful gift for new mothers, a little one’s first birthday, Easter, Christmas, and other gift-giving occasions.
 
🦋 MY THOUGHTS: This arrived as we were preparing for Hurricane Milton, and I read it to my girls on the day that Milton would make landfall and go over our area. I knew beforehand that this book was going to be a treasure, but I had no idea how much of a blessing it would be. The timing of its arrival could not have been more perfect as we were all reminded of the beautiful and comforting truths of Psalm 23.
 
Ruth is one of my favorite authors and her first picture book is an absolute treasure and joy to behold. The message and the illustrations are beautiful and would make a wonderful addition to any home or church library!
 
Thank you, ICON Media Group and Tommy Nelson Books, for my copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in the Holy Bible and this book is the perfect way to introduce children to its comforting words. Author Ruth Chou Simons uses Psalm 23 as the inspiration for her new children's book, Home is Right Where You Are, and it is fantastic!

Simons's beautiful illustrations are attention grabbers, and the easy-to-read rhyming text is perfect for young children, but it isn't just for your little ones! I was fully engaged in the vibrant colors, words of praise, and the promise that God is always with us. Home is Right Where You Are is a perfect book for family bedtime reading, but it would also be a wonderful addition to a church library. Needing a special gift for birthdays, Christmas, or "just because I love you"? This attractive hardback book is a great choice!!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher via FrontGate Women's Blogger Network. There was no obligation for a positive review.

[Lauren DuPrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received Home is Right Where You Are compliments of ICON Media Group and Tommy Nelson in exchange for my honest review.

This post contains affiliate links

Home is Right Where You Are is the first children's book by artist and author Ruth Chou Simons. The book's content is derived from Psalm 23 and it is written in rhyme. Each page contains lovely watercolor illustrations painted by Ruth and the book concludes with a beautiful painting of the text of Psalm 23. This book is a lovely resource for teaching children about God's tender care for His people.

The book includes a space for writing who the book is to and from making this a lovely gift option. Home is Right Where You Are moved me to tears and because of the stunning illustrations, it's one I look forward to reading on repeat with my children. This is a beautiful book and I hope Ruth writes more children's books in the future because we will be adding them to our home library.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

This picture book features watercolor art and reassuring text that is inspired by Psalm 23. The author wrote this based on her own motherhood journey, and encourages other parents to speak these kinds of messages over their children. Because this book is a tearjerker about entrusting your child to God's care, this will appeal to parents more than children, but the message and illustrations can appeal to all ages.

This would make a lovely gift book for a special occasion, and it can be especially meaningful in cases where life circumstances require parents and children to spend a long time apart from each other. The book encourages children to find peace in God, and to know that God will lead them and provide for them through all of life's highs and lows.

I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Nitoy Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartfelt love letter and top notch artwork from a mother to her children who are "leaving the nest". And what better way to send them off than give them God's Word specially Psalms 23. At first I'm skeptical that the author would use that popular and most beloved psalm to what she is going through. I don't see the connection. However after I read the story, Simons gave this to her children, all grown up, as a gift and reminder that God will never leave them and He is the only one who can give assurance, just like a shepherd to a sheep. Simons pushes the reader (and her kids) to God. I've been disappointed with some children's books that I read by big Christian publishing company that has this vague spiritual stories. This book is a unique one among those who are in the big league.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Childrens Illustrated books with a Faith Message are a wonderful genre. Home Is Right Where You Are by Ruth Chou Simons is the latest book in this genre that I had the opportunity to read.

WOW, I truly enjoyed this book. I shared it with a couple little ones at Church and they also enjoyed it. I believe Psalm 23 is a very important Chapter in the Bible. I really LOVE how Ruth Chou Simons has written this book in an easy to understand book for little ones. I know I have read Psalm 23 to my boys when they were little, but it isn't until they are older do they really understand the Chapter of the Bible. This book really helps the little ones understand that God is always near and will guide and lead them when they trust in him. The illustrations are magnificent and beautiful. Kids and Adults will enjoy reading this book together. I HIGHLY recommend this book! FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Hannah Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book! 4.5 stars rounded up. The illustrations are breathtaking and the words pull at the heartstrings for sure. As a new mom, this one was hard to get through without tears forming. It would make a wonderful baby shower or child dedication gift. The only critique I have is that the message of the last page is a little unclear. I think that the author is trying to convey that she and her child will always be connected by faith, but the lines between the child’s relationship with God and their relationship with mother become a bit blurred here. This wouldn’t keep me from displaying and reading it often, though!

Thank you so much to Ruth Chou Simons, Tommy Nelson and NetGalley for the eARC!

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you are the parent or the child this small book will strengthen and preserve. Both the visual and verbal interpretation brings the meaning of the psalm into an even more personal understanding.
The illustrations by the author are beautiful in pastel, with soothing colors, and adds to the meaning.
Well suited for reading alone or WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone aged 3-110, but especially to a school, church library, or your local public library!
I requested and received a free temporary uncorrected e-proof on Adobe Digital Editions from Tommy Nelson via NetGalley. Thank you!
available Sep 24, 2024

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Home Is Right Where You Are is a beautiful story inspired by Psalm 23 that a mother wrote for her six children. Throughout Psalm 23, we are reminded of the incomparable love of God. As our shepherd and dwelling place, the Psalm reminds us of God's goodness. Parenting begins the minute we hold our babies for the first time. It does not end the minute they leave for college or begin their first job. Our prayer is that God's Words spoken at home have taken hold and that the seeds we've sown will grow and flourish.

The artwork and words are absolutely beautiful. Here are a few pages from the book.

[Susan Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Home Is Right Where You Are” is Ruth Chou Simon’s’ first children’s book. Its beautiful illustrations and prose take the reader through the 23rd Psalm. The message of God’s grace, love and comfort reassure the reader that God is always with you no matter where you go. The book is appropriate for all ages: a read aloud or along to young children, a parting message to children leaving the nest, encouragement for an elderly loved one, and more. Growing up as a military brat, I can see this book being a comfort as families have to relocate often. This will be my new go-to title for baby gifts, graduation gifts or for anyone who might need the beautiful message.

[Becca Iveson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I opened this book expecting the beautiful art we all know and love from RCS and maybe a fun Scripture story I could share with my children. As I turned each page my heart felt see and known and by the end I had tears in my eyes. This book is not just about parents and kids, but about our Heavenly Father and His children. The beautiful images recall highs and lows from life and the reminder that God remains and He is leading, guiding, and protecting us. Home is wherever we are when we are in Christ and He lives within us.

Such a beautiful book for all ages that speaks the truth to our hearts, our mothers’ hearts, our grandmothers’ heart, and our children’s hearts.

[Bp · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a reminder of the truth of Psalm 23 that God is with us wherever we go in life. It felt like this book was thoughtfully and intentionally put together. Parents need to share this kind of encouragement with their children as they go through life and remind them even on the hard days or difficult parts of the journey, God is there.


This is a book that will be enjoyed by adults as well as children I believe. It is calming and comforting so would be good to read at bedtime or anytime through the day. It would also make a nice gift.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.