What do you think?
Rate this book
Word for Word Bible Comic #8
The Book of Ruth: Word for Word Bible Comic: NIV
Using a bold contemporary art style, the comic presents every word of the biblical Book of Ruth, within its historical, cultural and geographical context. This graphic novel has 48 pages.
It employs a high view of scripture and the translation used is the NIV.
It is part of the graphic novel series, The Word for Word Bible Comic. Aimed primarily at adults and young adults, but suitable for ages 12+.
The Story: Under the capricious and increasingly faithless government of the Judges period, the promised land has become war-torn and desolate. Famine and death jolt this story into motion and make a family of God's chosen people into desperate refugees. The book of Ruth is at once historical and prophetic, it tells the intertwined story of two dauntless women and the integral parts they play within the ultimate story of the Author and perfecter of all things.
ENDORSEMENTS:
"Very interesting. As clear a readable rendition of the Bible as I have seen. Makes biblical teaching more accessible to young and old alike." -John Wagner, Co-creator of Judge Dredd.
"Indeed, one might argue that The Word for Word Bible Comic is actually a more authentic presentation of the Bible than our bare printed texts, which invite us to fill a visual vacuum by supplying pictures in our own imagination of people and events." - Rev Dr Christopher R. Smith (Author of "Understanding the Books of the Bible" Study Guides from IVP. Doctorate in Historical Theology and the Bible.)
It employs a high view of scripture and the translation used is the NIV.
It is part of the graphic novel series, The Word for Word Bible Comic. Aimed primarily at adults and young adults, but suitable for ages 12+.
The Story: Under the capricious and increasingly faithless government of the Judges period, the promised land has become war-torn and desolate. Famine and death jolt this story into motion and make a family of God's chosen people into desperate refugees. The book of Ruth is at once historical and prophetic, it tells the intertwined story of two dauntless women and the integral parts they play within the ultimate story of the Author and perfecter of all things.
ENDORSEMENTS:
"Very interesting. As clear a readable rendition of the Bible as I have seen. Makes biblical teaching more accessible to young and old alike." -John Wagner, Co-creator of Judge Dredd.
"Indeed, one might argue that The Word for Word Bible Comic is actually a more authentic presentation of the Bible than our bare printed texts, which invite us to fill a visual vacuum by supplying pictures in our own imagination of people and events." - Rev Dr Christopher R. Smith (Author of "Understanding the Books of the Bible" Study Guides from IVP. Doctorate in Historical Theology and the Bible.)
- GenresGraphic Novels
48 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2022
20 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Simon Amadeus Pillario
17 books22 followersI've run and fulfilled five very successful Kickstarters, which created our first six instalments of the Word for Word Bible Comic.
I am a professional illustrator and I have worked on Children's Book covers and magazines. (Example: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Legend-Five-J...).
I have a BA Hons degree in Graphic and 3D Design from UWE in Bristol UK.
I am a professional illustrator and I have worked on Children's Book covers and magazines. (Example: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Legend-Five-J...).
I have a BA Hons degree in Graphic and 3D Design from UWE in Bristol UK.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
September 19, 2016
A wonderful and insightful way to read the Bible...
I found this graphic novel approach to the Scripture very fascinating! The authenticity and research done into the cultures and persons of the time period really add to the story being told. It gives a whole new dimension, like having commentary or a concordance, but better because it is visual! I found myself drawn into the story in a whole new way. I love the Book of Ruth, and by showcasing it within its historical context, brought out the glory of God's grace within the lives of these ordinary people, their suffering and their joys. I especially love the end when you see the fullness of God's plan, that Naomi and Ruth are part of the lineage of David, and inevitably Jesus Christ. It is powerful. I would definitely recommend this book!
I found this graphic novel approach to the Scripture very fascinating! The authenticity and research done into the cultures and persons of the time period really add to the story being told. It gives a whole new dimension, like having commentary or a concordance, but better because it is visual! I found myself drawn into the story in a whole new way. I love the Book of Ruth, and by showcasing it within its historical context, brought out the glory of God's grace within the lives of these ordinary people, their suffering and their joys. I especially love the end when you see the fullness of God's plan, that Naomi and Ruth are part of the lineage of David, and inevitably Jesus Christ. It is powerful. I would definitely recommend this book!
September 17, 2016
The Word for Word Bible Comic presents the stories of the Bible as a graphic novel with the tag line "historically accurate, unabridged, and untamed”. This comic lives up to that billing. There is no commentary or embellishments added to the text of Scripture. What you do get is a visually powerful telling of the story of Ruth. Simon Amadeus Pillario draws you into an already great story with his incredible story boarding and full color images. For those who don't follow Pillario's blog, there was a tremendous effort to insure that the drawings were not only visually dramatic but also historically accurate. Having kick started both Judges and Joshua novels I am excited to see this series expand and be made available to a wider audience.
October 15, 2025
Book Title: Ruth © 2015
Author | Artist | Publisher: Holy Spirit | Simon Amadeus Pillario | Word for Word Bible Comic
Series: Word for Word Bible Comic #3
Genre: Graphic Novel / Literary Adaptation
Recommendation: Highly Recommended ★★★★★
Translation: NIV, the first few books published are also available in WEB.
Rating: 12+
________________________________________
Ruth Review
The Book of Ruth was actually a stretch goal alongside Joshua, and Joshua is the one volume I didn’t back at the time — something I’ve since really regretted. Still, I’m so glad I have it now. Like the other Word for Word Bible Comics, this adaptation is deeply researched and beautifully presented, with helpful end notes that give context and show just how much thought goes into every artistic decision.
This was also the first one that really made me pause and check my own preconceived ideas about ancient cultures and how I visualize them. For instance, Ruth is depicted with tattoos — something that initially jarred me. But after reading the end notes and understanding the reasoning behind it, I came to appreciate why Pillario chose to include that detail. It reflects historical and cultural accuracy over modern assumptions, and that’s something I deeply respect, even if it challenged my expectations at first. I just hope other readers take the time to read those notes, too and allow themselves to be challenged by their preconceived ideas. They make a big difference in understanding the creative choices.
Overall, Ruth is a shorter story, but it’s full of emotional warmth and depth. The artwork captures the humility, loyalty, and quiet strength of Ruth and Boaz beautifully. It’s not a dramatic, battle-filled book like Joshua or Judges—and that’s what makes it stand out, especially as the third book in the series. It’s a story of faithfulness in the middle of hard times, and this adaptation handles it with great care and reverence.
If I could give it a 4.9, I would. It’s nearly perfect and a wonderful complement to the Joshua and Judges volumes.
It’s interesting to think about how Ruth’s story contrasts with or even complements others in the Bible—like Daniel’s. Both lived outside of Israel’s homeland and showed remarkable faithfulness to God in foreign cultures, though their circumstances were completely different. Ruth’s loyalty and quiet obedience stand beside Daniel’s boldness and public witness, both showing that God works powerfully through those who remain faithful wherever they are.
I’m really looking forward to seeing more of the Word for Word Bible Comics Old Testament adaptations, especially as they continue to bring out these interwoven themes across Scripture.
________________________________________
Word for Word Bible Comics: Series Review
1. Overall Impression
The research and historical detail that go into each Word for Word Bible Comic is incredible. Pillario and his team bring each book and section of the Bible to life with accuracy and care. As well as visual elements to help the reader stay grounded and tell relationships between characters. For example, each tribe of Israel has a specific style of beard to help readers know for example that Paul is a Benjamite.
Among the many Bible adaptations I’ve read; and I have read many, including: The Manga Bible, The Action Bible, The Kingstone Bible, The Power Bible, The Lion Graphic Bible, The Kids Lion Bible, The Minecraft Bible, and The Brick Bible. For me the Word for Word Bible Comics has set the gold-level standard.
When I read a Bible graphic novel, I’m not just looking for entertainment. I’m looking for value, insight, and faithfulness to the text, and this series delivers it all and more. It is for this reason that I like the Word for Word Bible Comics over the other adaptations I have read.
The series began with Judges in 2014 and now includes Joshua (2015), Ruth (2015), Esther (2018), Song of Songs (2023), Jonah (2021), The Christmas Nativity (2022), Matthew (2020), Mark (2017), Luke (2022), Acts (2024), Galatians (2025), and James (2025), with 1 and 2 Thessalonians currently in production. (The Kickstarter is ongoing Fall 2025 and you can get the previous books at a discounted cost). I’ve followed their journey from the beginning, and each release has impressed me with its integrity and faithfulness to Scripture.
The comics tackle difficult topics and non-narrative sections of scripture with care and honesty. For example, the genealogy in Matthew is presented clearly and visually, helping readers stay engaged rather than getting lost in the names. The inclusion of “redundant” words like he said in the gutters (between panels), which normally I would agree with removing from a lesser literary adaptation of a graphic novel, however it reflects the word-for-word translation approach and makes it an excellent Bible reading resource.
I’ve read other reviews and I have heard of an archaeology professor has used these comics in class to illustrate artifacts, which shows how educational they can be beyond their faith value. Personally, I’ve used them in Bible studies, college-level Bible classes, ESL settings, and outreach with new believers. Their accessibility also makes them suitable for people with lower literacy levels. Even for non-Christians, they’re a fascinating and respectful way to learn about scripture.
On a personal note, I found these comics especially helpful during concussion recovery, when text-heavy reading was difficult.
The series includes many hidden Easter eggs. For example, in the Sermon on the Mount, when Jesus warns about lust and adultery, there’s an image of David leering at Bathsheba. During the section on anger, Cain and Abel appear in the background. When oaths are discussed, there’s a small image of Jephthah and his daughter.
The use of colour is also very intentional: blue for the Holy Spirit or angels, green for demonic influence, sepia with different coloured-tinting sepia for prophecies, parables, and flashbacks.
Like a good study Bible, Word for Word Bible Comics helps readers see Scripture in a new light.
The maps are another highlight. For those of us who have never been to the biblical regions, they help make the settings tangible. I also love the endnotes included after almost every book, as well as my special Kickstarter holographic covers.
Overall, these comics are both beautiful and useful. They bring the Bible to life while encouraging study and reflection.
2. Content and Themes
The comics faithfully depict biblical stories with respect and accuracy. They don’t avoid difficult subjects, which makes them best suited for mature readers, though they can also be enjoyed by younger audiences when guided. The series highlights themes like faith, obedience, and divine justice, presenting them in a way that’s vivid and easy to connect with.
Parents should note that some volumes (like Joshua and Judges) are rated 15+, while most others carry a 12+ rating. The ratings are there for good reason; the Bible includes moments of sin, violence and hardship that are depicted honestly here.
3. Artwork and Design
Each book begins with a Bible verse that captures its main theme, followed by a map showing the setting. These help orient the reader before the story begins.
The artwork is detailed and expressive, effectively showing emotion and tone. The use of colour to distinguish divine messages, prophetic visions, and spiritual conflicts enhances understanding. The art style may not resemble typical Western or Japanese graphic novels, but it fits the realistic tone of the Bible beautifully.
Characters are distinct and consistent across books. For instance, Peter in Galatians is clearly the same person we saw earlier in the Gospels and Acts, just older. The same goes for Paul. The layout also varies when needed—such as in the Fruit of the Spirit section in Galatians, where the visual design reinforces the message.
4. Readability and Accessibility
The comics are easy to follow, even when the biblical text is dense. The combination of visuals, clear layouts, and endnotes helps make complex passages more understandable. They’re especially great for visual learners or those who find long passages of text challenging.
Some pages are text-heavy, while others are nearly wordless, this helps create a good rhythm for readers. Extra background information is sometimes conveyed through the artwork rather than added narration, keeping the focus on the original text.
Chapter and verse numbers appear on the bottom outer corners of the pages, which helps readers navigate without disrupting the flow of reading.
5. Strengths and Highlights
• Faithful and respectful representation of Scripture
• Rich historical and cultural accuracy
• Thoughtful use of colour and layout
• Helpful maps and endnotes
• Hidden Easter eggs and visual depth
• Ideal for study, teaching, or personal reflection, considering the text from another angle
6. Improvements and Critiques
Some readers may need time to adjust to the art style since it doesn’t follow the conventions of Western (like DC or Marvel superhero comics) or Eastern (like manga, manhwa and manhua). With the exception of Esther the colour palette tends to be very earthy to reflect the realisticness of the material.
One area that might make the books less accessible for others is in the cost. However, I think the cost is well worth it for the level of research and detail that goes into each panel.
I also look forward to seeing the books translated into more languages. Right now some of the books are available in Spanish and/or Portuguese.
7. Recommended Audience
This series would appeal to a wide range of readers: students, teachers, church groups, new believers, and even those simply curious about the Bible. It’s a great choice for both classroom and personal study, and for personal enjoyment.
8. Final Rating
Highly Recommended ★★★★★
Author | Artist | Publisher: Holy Spirit | Simon Amadeus Pillario | Word for Word Bible Comic
Series: Word for Word Bible Comic #3
Genre: Graphic Novel / Literary Adaptation
Recommendation: Highly Recommended ★★★★★
Translation: NIV, the first few books published are also available in WEB.
Rating: 12+
________________________________________
Ruth Review
The Book of Ruth was actually a stretch goal alongside Joshua, and Joshua is the one volume I didn’t back at the time — something I’ve since really regretted. Still, I’m so glad I have it now. Like the other Word for Word Bible Comics, this adaptation is deeply researched and beautifully presented, with helpful end notes that give context and show just how much thought goes into every artistic decision.
This was also the first one that really made me pause and check my own preconceived ideas about ancient cultures and how I visualize them. For instance, Ruth is depicted with tattoos — something that initially jarred me. But after reading the end notes and understanding the reasoning behind it, I came to appreciate why Pillario chose to include that detail. It reflects historical and cultural accuracy over modern assumptions, and that’s something I deeply respect, even if it challenged my expectations at first. I just hope other readers take the time to read those notes, too and allow themselves to be challenged by their preconceived ideas. They make a big difference in understanding the creative choices.
Overall, Ruth is a shorter story, but it’s full of emotional warmth and depth. The artwork captures the humility, loyalty, and quiet strength of Ruth and Boaz beautifully. It’s not a dramatic, battle-filled book like Joshua or Judges—and that’s what makes it stand out, especially as the third book in the series. It’s a story of faithfulness in the middle of hard times, and this adaptation handles it with great care and reverence.
If I could give it a 4.9, I would. It’s nearly perfect and a wonderful complement to the Joshua and Judges volumes.
It’s interesting to think about how Ruth’s story contrasts with or even complements others in the Bible—like Daniel’s. Both lived outside of Israel’s homeland and showed remarkable faithfulness to God in foreign cultures, though their circumstances were completely different. Ruth’s loyalty and quiet obedience stand beside Daniel’s boldness and public witness, both showing that God works powerfully through those who remain faithful wherever they are.
I’m really looking forward to seeing more of the Word for Word Bible Comics Old Testament adaptations, especially as they continue to bring out these interwoven themes across Scripture.
________________________________________
Word for Word Bible Comics: Series Review
1. Overall Impression
The research and historical detail that go into each Word for Word Bible Comic is incredible. Pillario and his team bring each book and section of the Bible to life with accuracy and care. As well as visual elements to help the reader stay grounded and tell relationships between characters. For example, each tribe of Israel has a specific style of beard to help readers know for example that Paul is a Benjamite.
Among the many Bible adaptations I’ve read; and I have read many, including: The Manga Bible, The Action Bible, The Kingstone Bible, The Power Bible, The Lion Graphic Bible, The Kids Lion Bible, The Minecraft Bible, and The Brick Bible. For me the Word for Word Bible Comics has set the gold-level standard.
When I read a Bible graphic novel, I’m not just looking for entertainment. I’m looking for value, insight, and faithfulness to the text, and this series delivers it all and more. It is for this reason that I like the Word for Word Bible Comics over the other adaptations I have read.
The series began with Judges in 2014 and now includes Joshua (2015), Ruth (2015), Esther (2018), Song of Songs (2023), Jonah (2021), The Christmas Nativity (2022), Matthew (2020), Mark (2017), Luke (2022), Acts (2024), Galatians (2025), and James (2025), with 1 and 2 Thessalonians currently in production. (The Kickstarter is ongoing Fall 2025 and you can get the previous books at a discounted cost). I’ve followed their journey from the beginning, and each release has impressed me with its integrity and faithfulness to Scripture.
The comics tackle difficult topics and non-narrative sections of scripture with care and honesty. For example, the genealogy in Matthew is presented clearly and visually, helping readers stay engaged rather than getting lost in the names. The inclusion of “redundant” words like he said in the gutters (between panels), which normally I would agree with removing from a lesser literary adaptation of a graphic novel, however it reflects the word-for-word translation approach and makes it an excellent Bible reading resource.
I’ve read other reviews and I have heard of an archaeology professor has used these comics in class to illustrate artifacts, which shows how educational they can be beyond their faith value. Personally, I’ve used them in Bible studies, college-level Bible classes, ESL settings, and outreach with new believers. Their accessibility also makes them suitable for people with lower literacy levels. Even for non-Christians, they’re a fascinating and respectful way to learn about scripture.
On a personal note, I found these comics especially helpful during concussion recovery, when text-heavy reading was difficult.
The series includes many hidden Easter eggs. For example, in the Sermon on the Mount, when Jesus warns about lust and adultery, there’s an image of David leering at Bathsheba. During the section on anger, Cain and Abel appear in the background. When oaths are discussed, there’s a small image of Jephthah and his daughter.
The use of colour is also very intentional: blue for the Holy Spirit or angels, green for demonic influence, sepia with different coloured-tinting sepia for prophecies, parables, and flashbacks.
Like a good study Bible, Word for Word Bible Comics helps readers see Scripture in a new light.
The maps are another highlight. For those of us who have never been to the biblical regions, they help make the settings tangible. I also love the endnotes included after almost every book, as well as my special Kickstarter holographic covers.
Overall, these comics are both beautiful and useful. They bring the Bible to life while encouraging study and reflection.
2. Content and Themes
The comics faithfully depict biblical stories with respect and accuracy. They don’t avoid difficult subjects, which makes them best suited for mature readers, though they can also be enjoyed by younger audiences when guided. The series highlights themes like faith, obedience, and divine justice, presenting them in a way that’s vivid and easy to connect with.
Parents should note that some volumes (like Joshua and Judges) are rated 15+, while most others carry a 12+ rating. The ratings are there for good reason; the Bible includes moments of sin, violence and hardship that are depicted honestly here.
3. Artwork and Design
Each book begins with a Bible verse that captures its main theme, followed by a map showing the setting. These help orient the reader before the story begins.
The artwork is detailed and expressive, effectively showing emotion and tone. The use of colour to distinguish divine messages, prophetic visions, and spiritual conflicts enhances understanding. The art style may not resemble typical Western or Japanese graphic novels, but it fits the realistic tone of the Bible beautifully.
Characters are distinct and consistent across books. For instance, Peter in Galatians is clearly the same person we saw earlier in the Gospels and Acts, just older. The same goes for Paul. The layout also varies when needed—such as in the Fruit of the Spirit section in Galatians, where the visual design reinforces the message.
4. Readability and Accessibility
The comics are easy to follow, even when the biblical text is dense. The combination of visuals, clear layouts, and endnotes helps make complex passages more understandable. They’re especially great for visual learners or those who find long passages of text challenging.
Some pages are text-heavy, while others are nearly wordless, this helps create a good rhythm for readers. Extra background information is sometimes conveyed through the artwork rather than added narration, keeping the focus on the original text.
Chapter and verse numbers appear on the bottom outer corners of the pages, which helps readers navigate without disrupting the flow of reading.
5. Strengths and Highlights
• Faithful and respectful representation of Scripture
• Rich historical and cultural accuracy
• Thoughtful use of colour and layout
• Helpful maps and endnotes
• Hidden Easter eggs and visual depth
• Ideal for study, teaching, or personal reflection, considering the text from another angle
6. Improvements and Critiques
Some readers may need time to adjust to the art style since it doesn’t follow the conventions of Western (like DC or Marvel superhero comics) or Eastern (like manga, manhwa and manhua). With the exception of Esther the colour palette tends to be very earthy to reflect the realisticness of the material.
One area that might make the books less accessible for others is in the cost. However, I think the cost is well worth it for the level of research and detail that goes into each panel.
I also look forward to seeing the books translated into more languages. Right now some of the books are available in Spanish and/or Portuguese.
7. Recommended Audience
This series would appeal to a wide range of readers: students, teachers, church groups, new believers, and even those simply curious about the Bible. It’s a great choice for both classroom and personal study, and for personal enjoyment.
8. Final Rating
Highly Recommended ★★★★★
April 6, 2024
2024 bk 29. I was intrigued by the notion of the books of the Bible in graphic form. Previously I had only seen a "complete' graphic novel Bible - and it left out a lot. I'd been reading reviews of different GN's when I stumbled across the Word for Word series and decided to try several of the books out. I was very pleased and enjoyed seeing the Book of Ruth in its entirety and totally enhanced by the artwork of Simon Amadeus Pillario. He has done a terrific job of providing the visual background to the book. I also enjoyed the section in the back with information on the research done into the facial/ethnic features and differences of the Moabites and the Israelites. Well done!~
December 29, 2025
Such a fun way to read the bible
I love that this verse by verse comic uses the literal words of the bible. When I don't feel like reading at all this always helps me get me in the word.
I love that this verse by verse comic uses the literal words of the bible. When I don't feel like reading at all this always helps me get me in the word.
August 20, 2021
Good read. It kept to the story and the graphics were really good. I enjoy comic book style and Word Bible Comic did not disappoint me.
September 1, 2021
Amazed at the depth of detail in this story. Clearly the Spirit of God speaks thru' this comic showing the importance of women in God's plan.
May 27, 2025
Great method to read the bible and keep the attention span at the same time.
Also great tool to help remember and visualise the passages. Definitely recommended
Also great tool to help remember and visualise the passages. Definitely recommended
June 26, 2022
Not my favorite Bible version but still a readable, enjoyable experience. Decent artwork [a little more artsy than I like but again - still very good.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews