I have always been a lover of books. I write books but more importantly, I love reading books. When we were raising our kids I was always on the look out for books that would cultivate and challenge their faith. Developing a love for books while nurturing their faith is a win, win for everyone.

Since it’s summer and I’m guessing you are trying to get your kids to read, and you’d like to cultivate their walk with Jesus, I thought I’d introduce you to a few books that are great for your kids, whether they are toddlers, tweens, or teens.

Words to Dream On –by Diane Stortz. I just discovered this books this week while I’ve been attending a conference in Orlando. Written by one of my friends, this little devotional book includes simple Bible stories and prayers to enjoy with your toddler as you are tucking them in at night. It includes both a “Sleepytime prayer” and a “Bedtime Blessing”

Just Sayin: Write’Em, Draw’Em, Hide’Em in Your Heart – by Carol McAdams Moore. I also just discovered this devotional book for tween girls this week. It is hands down one of the most creative devotionals I have ever seen. It’s a devotional for girls to explore and learn more about themself and their faith. Prompts get their minds thinking, ideas flowing, and help turn their thoughts and emotions into dynamic doodles and so much more! This book is a great way to encourage their God-given gift of creativity and faith!

Dare U 2 Open This Book: Draw It, Write It, Dare 2 Live It –Carol McAdams Moore. This is the counterpart devotional for tween boys (Ages 8-12). Boys are encouraged to use their minds and develop their creativity by drawing dynamic doodles, filling in the prayer blanks, solving puzzles, and more.

Each of the short devotions includes a topic, quote, and Scripture summary, plus doodles, journal prompts, lists, puzzles, quizzes, fill-in-the-blank prayers, or other unique activities that explore Bible truths and ways to apply them―everyday. Dare U 2 Open this Book challenges guys to follow Jesus. Best. Idea. Ever.

Reaching For The Invisible God – Philip Yancy. Steve and one of our daughters read through this book together during a season of spiritual doubt. Our daughter was wrestling with her faith. My husband understood her doubts since he had experienced plenty of his own. So they made a deal. They read through the book together and Steve spent time listening to our daughter’s thoughts. Because Steve was willing to listen, doubts were processed and faith was strengthened. I’ll always be grateful for Steve’s wisdom for that situation. The results were life changing. I highly recommend, Philip’s book. It’s masterfully written and brilliantly non-judgmental.

Through Gates of Splendor – Elizabeth Elliot. As a young teen I read this classic and it forever changed my life and cultivated my heart for the world. Elizabeth Elliot recently went home to be with Jesus, but her legacy lives one. I recommend that every teen read this classic and ask God to give them His heart for the world.

Now it’s your turn. What books do you recommend for kids to cultivate their faith? Leave a comment, because your comments are a blessing to others.