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The Promises of God Storybook Bible: The Story of God's Unstoppable Love

Jennifer Lyell

4.58 · Rating details · 55 ratings · 19 reviews

God’s love is unstoppable. And that’s a promise.

Noah’s ark. Joseph’s dreams. Jesus’s miracles. The Bible is rich with stories for our children to hear and enjoy, but when those stories uncover the thread of God’s promises, our children learn much more than individual Bible stories. They discover how God has demonstrated His love for us, from the first promise in the garden ...more

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Hardcover, 320 pages

Published October 1st 2019 by B Kids

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Mar 26, 2020 Sarah Marie rated it really liked it

Shelves: books-i-own, provided-by-author-publisher, christian, graphic-novels, pretty-covers, standalones, middle-grade

The Promises of God Storybook Bible: The Story of God's Unstoppable Love by Jennifer Lyell

4 stars

This is a beautiful illustrated children's story Bible that breaks down Scripture from Genesis to Revelation and focuses on how the Bible as a whole focuses on the promises of God. It is a brilliant idea and the artwork is absolutely STUNNING. Each chapter focuses on a particular story and then is followed up with questions to interact with kids. I could definitely see this being implemented into a c

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Dec 23, 2019 Aaron Lee rated it it was amazing

Sometimes it is hard for us to grasp the big picture of the Biblical narrative. The Promises of God Storybook Bible, by Jennifer Lyell and illustrated by Thanos Tsilis, is a beautiful Bible that tells the story of God’s unstoppable love.

The Promises of God

Author Jennifer Lyell wrote the stories to be read aloud. She sees the book being used at home with families or at church in Sunday School. Each chapter takes a part of the Biblical narrative and couples it with a specific promise from God.

The Sometimes it is hard for us to grasp the big picture of the Biblical narrative. The Promises of God Storybook Bible, by Jennifer Lyell and illustrated by Thanos Tsilis, is a beautiful Bible that tells the story of God’s unstoppable love.

The Promises of God

Author Jennifer Lyell wrote the stories to be read aloud. She sees the book being used at home with families or at church in Sunday School. Each chapter takes a part of the Biblical narrative and couples it with a specific promise from God.

The first section, Promises of God from the Old Testament, includes 21 chapters. The second section, Promises of God from the New Testament, includes 27 chapters. Scripture quotations are from the Christian Standard Bible.

In the prologue, God Before Light, God is revealed to be one who always keeps His promises. Chapter three, The Broken Promise, teaches how God always tells us the truth. The 25th chapter, The Promised One, reveals how God sent His Son to save His people from their sins. The final chapter, The Promised Return and Rule, assures us that Jesus is coming back, and we will rule with Him.

God’s Unstoppable Love

What I appreciate most about this Bible is how it is not afraid to tackle the difficult stories as well as the more complex doctrines. For instance, in Chapter 18, The Passover Promise, the plague of death is highlighted to show the seriousness of our sin. However, Lyell shares how God will save His people through the blood of a spotless lamb.

Full-color illustrations are included, and many are full-pages without text. Bible references are mentioned to show where exactly each story was taken from. And each chapter ends with several age-appropriate questions for further discussion.

The illustrated characters are beautifully done, with dark skin tones and black and brown hair and eyes. The book is bound in a hardback cover, brilliantly designed to capture attention.

A Storybook Bible

This Bible is a bold and beautiful way to help you and your children understand the Biblical narrative. The illustrations will draw you in and keep you turning the pages. This Bible will help us to ask questions and make room for conversation. But most importantly, it will point us to the truth of the gospel and to our God who always keeps His promises.

I was provided a free copy of The Promises of God Storybook Bible but was not required to write a positive review. ...more

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Nov 02, 2019 Sarah rated it it was amazing

The Promises of God Storybook Bible: The Story of God's Unstoppable Love is one of the most beautifully illustrated children's Bible I have ever seen. This book has over 50 Bible stories and is a beautiful book of text with illustration to keep your little one interested in the Bible story. The illustrations are colorful and eye catching. As an adult, I am very impressed with this Bible.

The Promises of God Storybook Bible is a perfect for young readers as a devotional because the length of each ...more

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Dec 16, 2019 Patricia Timbrook rated it it was amazing

To most of us in the realm of Christian literature, including some new bloggers and book reviewers such as myself, Jennifer Lyell is anonymous author. But, with her newly released storybook bible, THE PROMISES of GOD, from B&H Kids Books, her anonymity is sure to diminish.

In Lyell’s storytelling writing style and through dramatic, yet, somewhat dreamy art, from Thanos Tsilis, both author and illustrator adapt the Old and the New Testaments into one year’s worth of stories for kids and parents th ...more

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Jan 10, 2020 Sarah rated it liked it

The Promises of God Storybook Bible is a high level overview of many of the accounts in the Bible aimed at children. I liked several aspects of it, for one, it doesn't shy away from teaching what many would consider 'deep' truths, that even adults struggle with. It seems to go by the premise that kids will take God's word in faith (as we all must do). Here are some excerpts to illustrate this, "…He is only one God, but He has three persons that are all completely that one God" and, "He has alway The Promises of God Storybook Bible is a high level overview of many of the accounts in the Bible aimed at children. I liked several aspects of it, for one, it doesn't shy away from teaching what many would consider 'deep' truths, that even adults struggle with. It seems to go by the premise that kids will take God's word in faith (as we all must do). Here are some excerpts to illustrate this, "…He is only one God, but He has three persons that are all completely that one God" and, "He has always known every single thing that was going to happen, and nothing ever happens without His permission. That means when we hear about something that happened in the Bible, where someone disobeyed God or it seems like God's plans were messed up, God's plans were never messed up. " It doesn't shy away from concepts of God's sovereignty, for instance in dealing with Rahab the harlot it says, "God had made it so that Rahab would hear all these things, and then He changed her heart to want to follow Him."

At first I was afraid that this book would promote, or at least leave room for, Creation taking place for millions of years. At first it seemed that it was at least leaving room for that concept as it didn't initially describe six "days", but then it actually did seem to get more specific: "God filled the water with fish and animals that swim! Big fish and little fish. They were all created in one second because He said they should exist." Okay, the term "One second" certainly doesn't leave room for evolution! I do wish that it would have clarified creation as taking place in six days though.

This book needs some clarification/corrective commentary if read to/by kids. I'll give a few examples: For one thing, the book seems to assume that there were sacrifices for sin before the Mosaic law. It teaches that God told Abraham to kill Isaac as a sacrifice for sin. I don't remember God specifying that it would be a sacrifice for sin, just that he was to offer Isaac up as a burnt offering (were all 'burnt offerings' sacrifices for sin?). Also, later on, in dealing with Moses, after he flees Egypt, "The Bible doesn't tell us for sure, but it seems that during this time Moses asked God's forgiveness for killing the Egyptian and made the sacrifice he had to make for that sin." Again, perhaps I'm wrong, but I thought that sin sacrifices, in particular, were not instituted by God until the Mosaic law.

It also reads things into some of the accounts. For instance, it talks about Abraham being worried that God really as going to make him kill his own son. "His heart must have been beating so hard, and he was probably had tears in his eyes as he worried that maybe God really was going to make him kill his own son." The Bible doesn't say that Abraham was worried that he MIGHT have to actually kill his son, he actually didn't seem to have any question as to whether or not he would have to kill his son, rather he seemed to have instantly made up his mind that he would kill his son because God had told him to do it. He was all in, also evidenced by his contemplating that God can even bring people back from the dead.

In the illustrations, Aaron looks significantly younger than Moses - that seems weird as Aaron was older than Moses. Also, and I expected this, but there are illustrations of Christ. I always feel a bit uncomfortable with depictions of Christ, and still do - especially with cartoon illustrations. These aren't as strange and irreverent seeming as some (Beginner's Bible), but still make me uneasy.

Anyway, this book is sort of an overview/ paraphrase with some interpretative commentary thrown in.

Many thanks to the folks at B&H publishers for sending me a free review copy of this book. My review did not have to be favorable. ...more

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May 14, 2020 Paul C. rated it really liked it

I was excited to receive a copy of The Promises of God (2019, B & H Kids) mainly to see how my five-year-old son would like it. Illustrated by Thanos Tsilis and authored by Jennifer Lyell, I find that this children’s Bible fills a gap between the ultra-watered down cartoonish children’s Bibles that can be condescending to children, and the popular graphic novels which can be too much to handle for young children. I personally appreciate that the author does not skirt around many issues that othe I was excited to receive a copy of The Promises of God (2019, B & H Kids) mainly to see how my five-year-old son would like it. Illustrated by Thanos Tsilis and authored by Jennifer Lyell, I find that this children’s Bible fills a gap between the ultra-watered down cartoonish children’s Bibles that can be condescending to children, and the popular graphic novels which can be too much to handle for young children. I personally appreciate that the author does not skirt around many issues that other children’s Bibles might (such as the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart), though I imagine that other parents might be less enthusiastic about this aspect.

The book at hand is not only visually captivating but also includes great theology; I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s presentation of the Edenic account, as well as how the author dealt with the apostle Paul. I confess that once in a while I get bored with my Bible. When that happens, I turn to comic Bibles or the audio Bible, or something like the four Gospel movies released by Netflix (in which Selva Rasalingam plays Jesus). We all learn at different rates, and some people need visuals more than others. The Promises of God is a great resource with stunning visuals. It would be a great gift for teens or young adults, or for those who need visuals such as myself.

As noted already, I appreciate that the author does not water down or avoid some hard passages. The visuals are what I think make this children’s book stand out, with the artist avoiding the cartoonish style that is quite common in some children’s Bibles. Of course, I need to be clear: those children’s books have their place!

I will say that this is not a perfect children’s book. There are places where I seriously disagree with the author’s interpretation, especially her Calvinistic leanings. At one point the author talks about the woman with the bleeding problem, asserting that because Jesus was God, he always knew exactly who was around him (even in the pressing crowds). This is an assumption, and while it’s important for Christians to affirm the divinity of Jesus, I feel that such a statement goes too far and can be in danger of sacrificing the humanity of Jesus. Jesus, in his humanity, depended on the Father and the Spirit (=Jesus was not a superhuman).

What shines in this book are the illustrations, vivid and detailed and certainly less candy-coated than our children may be used to, as well as the creativeness of the author. My issues with this great storybook are its Calvinistic leanings as well as the general wordiness of the storybook. Otherwise, it’s a great storybook which my son loves. Thanks, B & H, for the complimentary copy! ...more

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Jan 21, 2020 Marie Bungard rated it it was amazing

The Promises of God Storybook Bible is not just another children's Bible but one that proves God is always in control, can always be trusted, always loves His children, always provides, always cares, always...

It's very interesting to read children's versions of the Bible, especially after having read and taught the 'adult' version for so many years. Because God's Word is alive and active, any retelling of the story should reiterate those truths that we know so well and allow 'new' truths to bec The Promises of God Storybook Bible is not just another children's Bible but one that proves God is always in control, can always be trusted, always loves His children, always provides, always cares, always...

It's very interesting to read children's versions of the Bible, especially after having read and taught the 'adult' version for so many years. Because God's Word is alive and active, any retelling of the story should reiterate those truths that we know so well and allow 'new' truths to become real. For instance, why did Joseph cry when he saw his brothers again. We're often taught that it was because he missed them so much, but could it also be that even though he had forgiven them their betrayal still hurt.

God's sovereignty is a consistent theme throughout the stories, helping children (actually, anyone who reads it) understand that God is in total control of all aspects of life.

I'm always cautious with Paul's part of the story and presenting it in such a way that children understand that he is being used by God, through his writings, to help the Believers, both then and now, understand God's Word, Jesus' life and sacrifice, and how it applies to our everyday lives. Jennifer Lyell does this beautifully. Check out his quote from her words on 1 & 2 Thessalonians.

Paul wrote these letters to the church in Thessalonica thousands of years ago. But God put them in the Bible because they're also promises for us today, and they have been for followers of Jesus from the beginning. We are all to wait for Him to come back and not worry about when it will be because God knows the perfect time. And we are to listen only to teachers who teach what matches the things Jesus taught. And we should encourage one another to work hard telling people about Jesus like Paul did! (pg. 255)

I shared this book with a delightful family to read and review for me. Their comments were very positive with only one suggestion which I found quite interesting. They felt that sometimes the titles were misleading and should have better matched the story and the concept of God's Promises.

I would have liked to see some of Mrs. Lyell's stories of the other New Testament writers, like James and Peter, included in this book.

I highly recommend this book. Jennifer Lyell is an awesome storyteller. It will be an excellent resource for family devotions, Children's Sunday School and small group teachers. ...more

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Oct 26, 2019 Meagan Myhren-Bennett rated it really liked it

Shelves: bible, books-for-children, children, history, non-fiction

The Promises of God Storybook Bible
The Story of God's Unstoppable Love
By Jennifer Lyell
Illustrated by Thanos Tsilis

This book has over 50 Bible stories (24 from the Old Testament and 28 from the New Testament). Each story is told through a lovely blend of text and illustration. Jennifer Lyell uses her years of experience as a Sunday School teacher in the text portion of the book almost using a conversational style to tell each story. And the illustrations that accompany each will catch young eyes The Promises of God Storybook Bible
The Story of God's Unstoppable Love
By Jennifer Lyell
Illustrated by Thanos Tsilis

This book has over 50 Bible stories (24 from the Old Testament and 28 from the New Testament). Each story is told through a lovely blend of text and illustration. Jennifer Lyell uses her years of experience as a Sunday School teacher in the text portion of the book almost using a conversational style to tell each story. And the illustrations that accompany each will catch young eyes as the story is read.

The book opens with Creation and moves through the first sin, the flood, and Noah's Ark. Then the attention is turned to Abraham and his descendants as they become the nation of Israel while in Eygpt all the while hoping for the promised Savior. Again and again, Israel fell short, failing to heed the word of the prophets God sent to them until years went by with no word from God. After generations of silence, God again spoke to His people but His message was limited to a select few including a young woman named Mary. Mary was to be the mother to God's promised Savior. We are then taken through Jesus's birth, childhood, ministry, and His death. When we read through the story of the Resurrection we notice that the author wove the story of Job into it. The ministry of the disciples following Jesus's accession then takes up the majority of the book with the last two stories coming from Revelation.

This is a nice introduction to the Bible for young readers. I think it is better for children over 2 just for comprehension purposes but that doesn't mean you can't share with those that are younger. I think this would be an excellent choice for either morning or evening devotion times. The length of each story is perfect for young listeners who have a shorter attention span but not so short as to feel skimped. The book is over 200 pages so you can estimate about 4 pages per story.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own. ...more

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Nov 30, 2019 Brandi (Rambles of a SAHM) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: juvenille-nonfiction

There are a ton of children's storybook Bibles to choose from. In fact we already own a ton of them. So why would we consider another one? Those are always my thoughts when I am offered a new children's storybook Bible. Will it just languish on the shelf or will it be one that stands out?

I'm happy to say that The Promises of God Storybook Bible is a standout among our collection. From the opening pages you can just tell that it is different. The illustrations have a lushness to them that makes y ...more

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Dec 14, 2019 Jolene - rated it really liked it

The Promises of God Storybook Bible, written by Jennifer Lyell and illustrated by Thanos Tsilis, is the newest storybook-style children’s Bible to enter our home. My husband has read Bible stories to our daughters every night before bed for years, so we’ve gone through many of these. Without a doubt, I know he is going to LOVE the built-in bookmark. It’s a daily struggle for the bookmark to stay on the correct page.

I enjoyed how The Promises of God Storybook Bible focuses on the promises of God ...more

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Dec 20, 2019 Vera Godley rated it it was amazing

Typically, young children's books are quite limited in the scope of the promises found in the Bible with which children are made familiar. The rainbow promise. The never leave you nor forsake you promise. The promise of a Saviour Redeemer. Just a few.

But in The Promises of God Storybook Bible the child has the opportunity to see how God has loved his people and his creation throughout time. How He has made promises and kept them throughout the ages in many ways to many people.

I think the content ...more

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Dec 23, 2019 Lauren DuPrez rated it it was amazing

The Promises of God Storybook Bible is an excellent resource for teaching preschoolers the truths of God's word. Author Jennifer Lyell created this storybook Bible as a means for helping her Sunday school students learn the narrative of Scripture. In the introduction to the Bible, Lyell wrote, "I've learned that the thread of the promises of God is sticky for kids and easy for them to understand. It weaves together the stories from creation to the new heavens and earth, all while making the stor ...more

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Feb 18, 2020 Becky rated it it was amazing

You Will Love This!

PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: http://bookreadingtic.com/2020/02/18/... THANK YOU!

This book contains fifty-two Bible stories that range from the Creation Story, to Noah’s Ark to the New Heaven which is spoken of in the book of Revelation. Amazing illustrations by Thanos Tsilis fill every page while the end of each account have a few things to think about. These are a retelling of the narratives, not the Biblical text, but the core messages remain true.

For instance, the b ...more

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Nov 30, 2019 Monica rated it it was amazing

The Promises of God Storybook Bible by Jennifer Lyell starts with a note to all of the grown-ups. In this introduction she shares her experience in teaching Sunday School for many years to all ages. She shares why she chose to write this book and how she hopes it touches the hearts of both the children being read to and those doing the reading. I immediately felt encouraged that this was a book full of blessings to all that learn about the promises of God. I also love that the stories in this bo ...more

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Mar 09, 2020 Sarah rated it it was amazing

The Promises of God Storybook Bible is probably my personal favorite children’s book that I’ve gotten my hands on and the one I’m most excited to share with you. Why? It’s dense with theological truths like the trinity but condensed to a level that a young mind would be able to comprehend. And it’s G-O-R-G-E-O-S in design.

Per what you would expect from a storybook Bible for children, The Promises of God Storybook Bible has the typical stories throughout from Adam and Eve to Moses, John the Bapti ...more

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Dec 05, 2019 Theron StJohn rated it really liked it

This is a great Bible storybook to use for anyone who has a preschooler in their life. If you are a preschool teacher at your church and you are looking for a resource that can assist you in teaching the Bible in a way that preschoolers understand, then check out The Promises of God Storybook Bible by Jennifer Lyell. If you are a parent of a preschooler and are wanting them to come to know God, then get a copy of this book and read it aloud for family devotionals. If you are a grandparent and ar ...more

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Jan 06, 2020 Rebekah Gyger rated it really liked it

4.5 Stars

What I like about this storybook Bible is the interactiveness. Each chapter ends with four questions which prod children to remember and think on what was just read. And the narratives themselves are peppered with questions that prompt a verbal response. The way these stories are told lead to genuine conversation between the children and whomever is reading.

The theme of this book is also a great one, teaching children that God always keeps his promises and showing stories from the Bible ...more

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Jan 13, 2020 Fay Jacobsohn rated it it was amazing

This storybook Bible is written from the perspective of God's promises and how they tie the Bible together. Even from the beginning, God promised to send a Savior to the world. Like any storybook Bible, this one is from the author's perspective, but it looks like a good one. Each story gives a main point at the beginning and then follows the story with questions regarding the story and how it applies to their lives.

This is a great Bible to encourage children that God loves them and always keeps ...more

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