As important as solid theology is in Christian kids books, we know that it's often the pictures that determine whether a book becomes a family favorite. The best illustrations capture the imaginations of little ones and make children (and adults—let’s be honest here!) want to read and re-read them.

So we asked our team for their favorites kids books based on illustrations—books that are both biblically sound and beautifully designed. Here’s what we got!

Little Pilgrim's Progress
Illustrated by Joe Sutphin.

Helen Taylor faithfully adapted John Bunyan's allegory of the Christian life preserves the original plotlines of Bunyan's classic while telling the story of Little Christian and Christiana in a way that kids can understand. In this fresh new edition, bestselling illustrator Joe Sutphin portrays the characters of Bunyan's tale as furry creatures living in a woodland realm.

The Storm That Stopped 
Illustrated by Catalina Escheverri

This stunningly illustrated bookstore favorite is based on the account of Jesus calming the storm from Mark 4, teaching children who Jesus really is as they witness his power over nature. 

The Friend Who Forgives: A True Story about How Peter Failed and Jesus Forgave
Illustrated by Catalina Escheverri

Children know all about failing, but they don’t always experience true forgiveness. This book tells the story of Peter finding forgiveness, pointing children to Jesus, the Friend who will forgive them again and again and again.

The Biggest Story Bible Storybook
Illustrated by Don Clark

Beautiful illustrations are coupled with engaging retellings of various Bible stories, explaining how they fit into the overarching storyline. From beginning to end, learn about the God who created the world, acted in history, and continues to act in the present. 

The Forgotten King
Illustrated by Stephen Crotts

A good king's village is cursed by an evil wizard. The king must send his son to conquer the curse, banish the wizard, and finally move the castle to the midst of the town so that the people will always be protected.

The Sower
Illustrated by Stephen Crotts

The Sower depicts Scripture's imagery of God as a gardener—sowing seeds, planting gardens, and bringing life through the power of his word. Vibrant illustrations complement the book's lyrical style to engage imaginations and display God's cultivating work in creation and in the hearts of his people.

 Who Is Jesus?: 40 Pictures to Share with Your Family
Illustrated by Joe Hox

Forty pictures of Jesus guide family devotions about who Jesus is, why he came to earth, and how we can get to know him now. Vivid pictures tell stories about arks, rams caught in a thicket, snakes, sticks, rocks, shepherds, sheep, water, bread, and so much more.

 Zoe's Hiding Place: When You Are Anxious
Illustrated by Joe Hox

Zoe, a fearful mouse, is worried about a class trip. As she talks with her parents, Zoe realizes that she can turn to God for help. She learns that she can tell God all about her fears, and he will comfort her.

 The Promise: The Amazing Story of Our Long-Awaited Savior 
Illustrated by Rommel Ruiz

Journey through the pages of the Bible in search of the promised Savior, from the garden of Eden to a manger in Bethlehem. With captivating illustrations by Rommel Ruiz and easy-to-read language, children and parents are invited to come to know the promised one.

 Why Do We Say Good Night?
Illustrated by Rommel Ruiz

As a mother and her little daughter talk, they remember together that God made the night, he sees in the dark, and he watches over them just like a shepherd protects his sheep.

 Love Gave: A Story of God's Greatest Gift
Illustrated by Rommel Ruiz

This imaginative poem helps children take small steps toward understanding key Christian concepts, such as sin, salvation, and love's greatest gift—Jesus. Kid-friendly terms and exquisite illustrations show how children can become forever friends with God.

 The Story of God With Us
Illustrated by Aedan Peterson 

Follow the wonderful golden thread of God's presence through the Bible: his desire and determination to be with his people. A liturgical and memorable refrain that impresses the big idea into the readers’ and hearers’ hearts.