What do you think?
Rate this book
The Oak Inside the Acorn
Every person is tasked with learning why they were created and the unique gifts that make them special. Written by New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado, The Oak Inside the Acorn teaches about the incredible miracle inside each of us while reminding us that we were created by God for a special purpose.
The story highlights the adventure of a sweet little acorn becoming a big, strong oak tree. Readers will cheer on the growing tree when he can't grow oranges like the orange tree or flowers like the rose bush. Children will read with wonder as the tree grows empty branches, and later, a very special purpose is revealed.
The Oak Inside the Acorn is an inspiring picture book for readers, ages 6 to 10 that shows
All of God's creations have purpose and contribute to the well-being of others
Patience is a process, and it takes time to grow into all God created them to be
Life is a journey, and God has a plan for them through the ups and downs
This wonderful picture book makes an excellent
Bedtime story for snuggling close with little ones
Inspirational gift for graduation, baptism, baby showers and dedications, and adoptions
Read aloud story time to help children understand all they were created to be
The story highlights the adventure of a sweet little acorn becoming a big, strong oak tree. Readers will cheer on the growing tree when he can't grow oranges like the orange tree or flowers like the rose bush. Children will read with wonder as the tree grows empty branches, and later, a very special purpose is revealed.
The Oak Inside the Acorn is an inspiring picture book for readers, ages 6 to 10 that shows
All of God's creations have purpose and contribute to the well-being of others
Patience is a process, and it takes time to grow into all God created them to be
Life is a journey, and God has a plan for them through the ups and downs
This wonderful picture book makes an excellent
Bedtime story for snuggling close with little ones
Inspirational gift for graduation, baptism, baby showers and dedications, and adoptions
Read aloud story time to help children understand all they were created to be
48 pages, Hardcover
First published February 29, 2000
79 people are currently reading
596 people want to read
About the author
Max Lucado
1,202 books5,467 followersWith more than 150 million products in print and several NYT bestsellers, Max Lucado is America's bestselling inspirational author. He serves the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Denalyn, and their mischievous mutt, Andy. His most recent book published in August 2024 and is titled What Happens Next.
https://www.facebook.com/maxlucado/
https://twitter.com/maxlucado
https://www.instagram.com/maxlucado/
https://www.accessmore.com/pd/maxluca...
https://www.facebook.com/maxlucado/
https://twitter.com/maxlucado
https://www.instagram.com/maxlucado/
https://www.accessmore.com/pd/maxluca...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
March 6, 2018
This book made me cry. Literal tears were rolling down my cheeks! I was so surprised that it moved me so much. It is absolutely beautiful. The message is beautiful ("Be who God created you to be!"). It has a subtle message for parents too (there is a time to let go...) The illustrations are beautiful. It's a little long but both my 5 & 2 year old sat wonderfully through the whole thing. I got it from the library but am going out to buy our own copy today. If I could give this book 10 stars I would!!
December 2, 2025
This is a wonderful picture book that I thougholy enjoyed! The premise of the book is be the person who God made you to be.
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫
October 10, 2020
This story was really cute and definitely tugged on the heart strings. Often times in life we wonder who and what is it that I am supposed to be? Who does God want me to be? This story helps to answer these questions in a very child friendly way while also giving off a hint of The Giving Tree Vibes. Easy to read and one that can put a child to bed in no time!
October 27, 2022
This has to be my new favorite children’s book. The illustrations are stunning and the story has such a beautiful message. My daughter really enjoyed this book as well.
Mother Oak hugged Little Acorn in her strong branches. “Within you is a great oak, Little Acorn. Just be the tree God made you to be.”
Mother Oak hugged Little Acorn in her strong branches. “Within you is a great oak, Little Acorn. Just be the tree God made you to be.”
September 3, 2017
This is a beautifully illustrated book with a great message of being all that God created you to be...but one that seems to be more for a young woman graduating from high school than for young children. I'm not sure than the 3-7 year olds that usually listen to and look at picture books will listen to the lengthy story or truly grasp its lesson.
April 10, 2013
One of those simple stories with a powerful message--just be who you were created to be. It's a great story for every kid . . . and every adult who feels directionless.
January 30, 2025
Moving and Beautifully Illustrated
The Oak Inside the Acorn is a unique and lovely story that follows the journey of an acorn as it grows into a mighty oak tree. The story begins with the little acorn attached to its mother tree, wondering what God has planned for him. She gently assures him, saying, “Within you is a great oak. Just be the tree that God made you to be.”
At first, the little acorn is confused; after all, he is just an acorn. But soon, he falls onto the back of a truck, bidding farewell to his mother. He lands beside a group of orange trees, marveling at their fruit and wishing he could bear fruit too. The orange trees chuckle kindly, knowing he is meant for something even greater.
As winter passes and spring arrives, the little acorn sprouts into a seedling. The farmer notices him, curious about how he got there, and decides to replant him closer to the house. In his new spot, the little tree befriends vibrant flowers, admiring their beauty and wishing he, too, could grow something colorful and fragrant.
Season after season, the tree grows taller, standing strong through the years. He witnesses the life of a young girl who uses his branches to play. She seemingly confides in him, and they growup side-by-side. He sees her joys, her tears, and her fears, remaining steadfast as she matures. One day, he realizes she is all grown up and, like him, must go out into the world to fulfill God’s purpose for her life.
Max Lucado does a remarkable job of capturing the life cycle of God’s creation, illustrating that there is no need to fear when we remain in His will. The story gracefully demonstrates that God provides everything we need to fulfill His purpose and that all things work together for good.
The illustrations are equally captivating, with a rustic charm reminiscent of the 1970s—a simpler time free from distractions, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth. It ultimately reminds the reader that time and its many seasons have already passed us by.
Note: Although the author (Max Lucado) may support or associate with individuals whose teachings are considered biblically false and/or questionable, none of these concerns are evident in this children’s story.
The Final Forge: The Oak Inside the Acorn is a moving story that conveys generations of emotion and God’s purpose in one short, unforgettable tale.
The Oak Inside the Acorn is a unique and lovely story that follows the journey of an acorn as it grows into a mighty oak tree. The story begins with the little acorn attached to its mother tree, wondering what God has planned for him. She gently assures him, saying, “Within you is a great oak. Just be the tree that God made you to be.”
At first, the little acorn is confused; after all, he is just an acorn. But soon, he falls onto the back of a truck, bidding farewell to his mother. He lands beside a group of orange trees, marveling at their fruit and wishing he could bear fruit too. The orange trees chuckle kindly, knowing he is meant for something even greater.
As winter passes and spring arrives, the little acorn sprouts into a seedling. The farmer notices him, curious about how he got there, and decides to replant him closer to the house. In his new spot, the little tree befriends vibrant flowers, admiring their beauty and wishing he, too, could grow something colorful and fragrant.
Season after season, the tree grows taller, standing strong through the years. He witnesses the life of a young girl who uses his branches to play. She seemingly confides in him, and they growup side-by-side. He sees her joys, her tears, and her fears, remaining steadfast as she matures. One day, he realizes she is all grown up and, like him, must go out into the world to fulfill God’s purpose for her life.
Max Lucado does a remarkable job of capturing the life cycle of God’s creation, illustrating that there is no need to fear when we remain in His will. The story gracefully demonstrates that God provides everything we need to fulfill His purpose and that all things work together for good.
The illustrations are equally captivating, with a rustic charm reminiscent of the 1970s—a simpler time free from distractions, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth. It ultimately reminds the reader that time and its many seasons have already passed us by.
Note: Although the author (Max Lucado) may support or associate with individuals whose teachings are considered biblically false and/or questionable, none of these concerns are evident in this children’s story.
The Final Forge: The Oak Inside the Acorn is a moving story that conveys generations of emotion and God’s purpose in one short, unforgettable tale.
October 1, 2020
Invoking the theme that we all need to discover our God-given in life, Lucado’s (The Crippled Lamb ) parallels the lives of a tree and a girl. A tiny acorn shaken from its mother's strong branches becomes a mighty oak, not by trying to be like other trees and flowers, but by heeding the mother oak's sage advice: "Just be the tree God made you to be." Likewise, a girl does some soul-searching of her own, often under the protective shade of the mighty oak, as she grows up and prepares to make her way in the world.As the little girl grew, the oak tree could sense the conflict burning inside her, what was she meant to be. Near the end of the book, the girl, now a young woman, is sitting against the tree thinking, contemplating her purpose, scared about leaving the security of home. The tree laments at the fact that it wants to tell her the answer, but, of course, is unable to do so. After all, it is a tree. Instead, it shakes a little acorn off of its branches and into her hands. The girl stands up and touches the tree, filled with the Spirit and realizing that it is time for her to become the “tree” God meant her to be. Without speaking a word, the tree and the girl say their goodbyes. This book is suitable for Kindergarten and up. In a classroom, we could discuss the life cycle of an Oak Tree.
December 10, 2020
The Oak Inside the Acorn is a precious story following the life of an acorn. Along the way, he meets orange trees and rose bushes, each of which have a definite purpose -- but all Acorn does is grow into a tree that gets larger and larger -- no fruit, no flowers. The only thing left to do is remember his mother's words, reminding him to grow into what God intended him to be. After years of doing just that, the big tree finds purpose in holding a swing for a little girl. As the girl grows into a young lady, the tree reminds her to follow her purpose as well: to grow into who God intended her to be.
This is maybe the sweetest picture book I have ever read. Max Lucado's storytelling always blows me away. The illustrations were soft and beautiful as they followed the growth of the tree across decades.
I would recommend this book for anyone, as well as any classroom in a Christian school. It could serve as the beginning of a discussion on comparison, purpose, and thriving where you are planted. I think everyone has felt like Acorn at some point or another, so this book would serve adults reading it just as well as the children listening.
This is maybe the sweetest picture book I have ever read. Max Lucado's storytelling always blows me away. The illustrations were soft and beautiful as they followed the growth of the tree across decades.
I would recommend this book for anyone, as well as any classroom in a Christian school. It could serve as the beginning of a discussion on comparison, purpose, and thriving where you are planted. I think everyone has felt like Acorn at some point or another, so this book would serve adults reading it just as well as the children listening.
December 10, 2020
Summary: A little acorn falls off of his mother the oak tree, and is taken in the bed of a truck to an orange grove. He begins to grow there, and is surprised that he cannot grow oranges. The farmer comes and finds him and transplants him to the back of his yard, overlooking the orange grove, next to some flowers. And he couldn't grow flowers either. The oak tree grows and grows until it over looks everything. Oak tree still wonders what he is suppose to do. One day, the farmer attaches a swing to his branches for his daughter, and then a tree house, as the girl and the oak grew and grew. Together, both learn that their purpose is to be the person God made them to be.
Opinion: This is such a sweet story with a good Christian message about our purpose and God's purpose for our lives. The illustrations are sweet and nostalgic with soft and warm colors and go well with the theme.
How I would use it: This is a book that you probably can't use in public schools, because of it's ties to Christianity. However, in a Christian setting, this would be a good book to serve a religious purpose as well as talk about where trees come from and how they grow.
Opinion: This is such a sweet story with a good Christian message about our purpose and God's purpose for our lives. The illustrations are sweet and nostalgic with soft and warm colors and go well with the theme.
How I would use it: This is a book that you probably can't use in public schools, because of it's ties to Christianity. However, in a Christian setting, this would be a good book to serve a religious purpose as well as talk about where trees come from and how they grow.
February 26, 2017
Max Lucado showcased his incredible writing skills, incorporating God and His glory once again in "The Oak Inside the Acorn". This book follows an acorn who drops from his mother-the tree that he was attached to. The acorn then grows into a smaller tree and eventually is transported to the backyard of a family. The acorn develops into a large tree, like it's mother. The tree is there for all of the milestone's of the young girls life into adulthood. The books perfectly displays the bittersweet emotions of growing up; it's a special time but life does change. This book would be special to read to a group of fifth graders who are moving on to the next stage in their school career. If allowed by the school, this book would be beneficial for student's to learn that change is a normal facet of life-while it not always be an easy transition, like leaving your mom or dad to go be a big tree, it will be O.K. This book makes me cry on every occasion that I read it. Lucado is a genius with his words- I would definitely recommend students and their parents to read it.
July 12, 2018
Such a heartfelt read. My mom often read, “you are special” to me as I was growing up and it was one of my absolute favourite books. (And it still continues to be!) I had never heard of this one but since it was by Max Lucado I thought it I’d give it a try. Boy am I glad that I did! I definitely put it up there as one of my favourites.
The thing I really love about Max’s children’s books is that they are for all ages. All the topics are relevant throughout your entire life. As an adult I find myself going back to these stories more and more to find encouragement. I actually realize that I need these stories more now than ever before. The reminders of a love so deep, that there is always a hope to be found, you are never alone, you are valued, and that you have a purpose beyond your wildest dreams.
This would make a great graduation gift,the perfect baby book, an encouragement to so many who just feel “stuck”.
The thing I really love about Max’s children’s books is that they are for all ages. All the topics are relevant throughout your entire life. As an adult I find myself going back to these stories more and more to find encouragement. I actually realize that I need these stories more now than ever before. The reminders of a love so deep, that there is always a hope to be found, you are never alone, you are valued, and that you have a purpose beyond your wildest dreams.
This would make a great graduation gift,the perfect baby book, an encouragement to so many who just feel “stuck”.
December 24, 2018
Parents and children will find great counsel from Max Lucado's story of a little acorn who learned the important lesson:
This story is also for parents whom he counsels:
Note: Lucado provides a general principle, not a scripted plan. If you are looking for more "How to" you'll be disappointed. But good principles precede good practice. The Oak Inside the Acorn is principle put to paper -- and a good one.
Within you is a great oak. Just be the tree God meant you to be.Clearly written and beautifully illustrated (thanks George Angelini), Lucado helps children lean an essential lesson of life: God made them unique and with a purpose.
This story is also for parents whom he counsels:
Childhood tendencies forecast adult abilities. Read them. Discern them. Affirm them. Cheerlead them.Happy the child and happy the parent who reads the parable and heeds the lessons.
Note: Lucado provides a general principle, not a scripted plan. If you are looking for more "How to" you'll be disappointed. But good principles precede good practice. The Oak Inside the Acorn is principle put to paper -- and a good one.
April 5, 2019
This is a beautifully illustrated book with a parable for children. It is too long for a bedtime read. Little Acorn the main character is looking out at the world and meeting orange trees and flowers and doing his best to become a tree. He meets a little girl who plays and grows up near him. And the oak tree protects and shades her until she grows and leaves. This prose story is long and heart warming but has a kind message about being who you are and growing up. Children should hear its message.
November 25, 2023
When an acorn begins to grow into a tree, it feels sad that it can't produce oranges and it doesn't have beautiful flowers like daisy and rose and petunia. He is small and can't see what his purpose is. But over time, he grows larger and larger. Animals play under him. A rope swing is added to his strong branches, and a young girl spends much of her childhood in the shade of the tree. As the tree grows, so does the girl. Both begin to learn about their purpose here on Earth and their value.
December 22, 2025
This heartwarming story follows a little acorn who goes on a journey of self-discovery. From a tree to a truck, an orange grove, and finally a yard, the acorn grows and learns about its purpose. This story is not only enjoyable for children but also resonates with adults, reminding us that God has a plan for each of us and that we are meant to be exactly who we are. Trust in God and embrace your destiny.
June 15, 2023
Obviously, Max is a great storyteller and writer. The book was beautifully illustrated with soft and whimsical colors that fit the story perfectly. Who doesn't like a good story about the old oak tree at their house or farm, either from the past or present. Powerful lesson and one that can relate to most people young and old alike.
September 30, 2025
This is a tender and beautifully illustrated children’s story that carries a deep spiritual truth. It tells the journey of Little Acorn, who feels small and unsure of his purpose. Over time, with patience and growth, Little Acorn becomes a mighty oak tree, discovering the purpose God had placed inside him all along.
This book is both comforting and inspiring, encouraging children (and adults) to trust God’s timing and His plan for their lives.
This book is both comforting and inspiring, encouraging children (and adults) to trust God’s timing and His plan for their lives.
December 31, 2017
This book got me right in the heart! Read it to my little boy and as I read it it I could just see him growing into the "oak God made him to be." Yeah the illustrations are awesome... But the message makes this book. Read it!
January 3, 2018
A bit cheesy, but kind of sweet. I can't help but think that Lucado is correcting the *terrible* theology and relational imagery of The Giving Tree -- that alone makes it worthwhile to have on a kid's shelf.
December 28, 2022
Gostei muito da história desse livro. O autor nos ensina que não sabemos o verdadeiro propósito de Deus para cada um de nós, que devemos confiar no nosso Criador. A confiança deverá ser regada com oração, leitura bíblica e estudo da palavra de Deus.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2025
This story is a bit of a longer read, but my kids really seem to like it. It follows the story of an acorn that doesn't want to leave its tree but realizes God has a plan for it. This plan is different than God's plan for the apple tree or rose bush, but important none the less.
July 10, 2017
Become who God wants you to be
It ended abruptly but the kids enjoyed the story. They wish there was more. We enjoyed looking at life through the eyes of an acorn.
It ended abruptly but the kids enjoyed the story. They wish there was more. We enjoyed looking at life through the eyes of an acorn.
December 12, 2017
Very sweet moral
My son loved this storey! He says it was nice, calm calm, and relaxing. He learned that you have to believe in God, that you will grow big like Big Oak.
My son loved this storey! He says it was nice, calm calm, and relaxing. He learned that you have to believe in God, that you will grow big like Big Oak.
November 22, 2017
A heartwarming book with a great message for all of us, no matter our age.
February 4, 2018
The Person Inside
There is something inside of each of us. Just Be what God created you to be. Be the best of whatever you are. Great read children.
There is something inside of each of us. Just Be what God created you to be. Be the best of whatever you are. Great read children.
October 19, 2018
Sentimental but so touching. A wonderful theme in parenting and finding your way as a young person.
April 24, 2019
I was looking for some uplifting reading material and forgot how much I love Max Lucado!! This particular book would be great as a graduation gift from High School.
June 13, 2019
Good moral but not my favorite max lucado book
July 12, 2019
Great message but from a very Christian slant (FYI for those who aren't Christian).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews