Meet Jesus: The Life and Lessons of a Beloved Teacher

I like this book because (as the title says) it focuses on the entirety of Jesus' life and the lessons he relayed in his parables, as opposed to a particular Christian dogma. It is certainly based on the Bible, as opposed to, say, the many theories on his 'lost years' out there, or the alternative/gnostic gospels. But it is general enough that when you are reading it to a child, you can present whatever vision of Christianity as a religion that you like. In this sense it is appropriate for Christians and non-Christians that want to introduce young children to Jesus, as part of a historical or religious education.

Meet Jesus: The Life and Lessons of a Beloved Teacher is a children's picturebook that recounts simple tales from Jesus' life, the parables he taught, and the important moral lessons to be learned from him. Though especially recommended for Christian children, Meet Jesus places emphasis upon the benevolent teachings of Jesus rather than religious dogma concerning his divinity. "Some people say that Jesus was the son of God. They say that after Jesus died, God resurrected him, or brought him back to life. They celebrate his resurrection on Easter Sunday. Some people say that Jesus was a wise and beloved teacher, whether or not he was the son of God. They say it is important to remember him because he taught us to treat people with love and to stand up for justice and peace." Simple color illustrations add a child-friendly touch to this picturebook especially recommended for church libraries.

Finally-- a book on "the historical Jesus" for children and their families. This book is an excellent conversation starter, with its invitation for parents and kids to tell each other more about what they know (or have heard) about Jesus and to talk about how they might follow his teachings in their daily lives. The "Questions to Think About" section is excellent. I would definitely recommend this book to parents and to libraries. With its non-proselytyzing approach, it would also be useful in elementary school settings, as part of a series on religions and spiritual leaders.

Gunney, Lynn Tuttle, Meet Jesus: The Life and Lessons of a Beloved Teacher, Skinner House Books, 2007 Lynn Gunney uses clear non-proselytizing language to engage young children in her introduction to Jesus and carefully references the Bible verses that support her text. She presents Jesus as a good man who as a child " loved to sit among the teachers at the great temple, listening to their lively conversations"; in fact he amazed his teachers with his facile absorption of their lessons. She briefly describes his Jewish heritage and upbringing but otherwise does not name specific religions. There is no specific mention for example of any of the miracles; although when the author describes how Jesus fed "those who were hungry", the relevant bible verse about feeding the multitudes is cited and then provided in an appendix. Instead, she focuses on Jesus' love of God and his desire to spread a new message of "love and forgiveness". Two of his parables that demonstrate his style of teaching are recounted: one about the shepherd who lost a lamb, and the other about the Good Samaritan. Jesus' death is mentioned, however, it is carefully described without any pictures of the crucifixion; instead an illustration shows his mother and friends grieving. The belief that Jesus was the Son of God is acknowledged; but is balanced with the statement that, "Some people say that Jesus was a wise and beloved teacher, whether or not he was the Son of God". Christmas is described as a "day of joy and generosity" that celebrates the birth of Jesus and the text ends with a reminder to honor him "by trying to live as he did, with full hearts, loving words, and kind actions". The bright colorful and uncomplicated illustrations effectively enhance the text; lucent visages are simple yet still expressive. Included at the end of the book are thoughtful "Questions to Think About", a letter from the author to parents and teachers, and the full text of the referenced Bible passages. This book is a great choice for parents and teachers to share with children, preschool- 2nd grade and for libraries to offer to their patrons.