The Action Storybook Bible: An Interactive Adventure through God’s Redemptive Story

by Catherine DeVries, Sergio Cariello (Illustrator)

The Action Storybook Bible invites families with children ages 8 and under to explore God’s redemptive story together.

From the sleek and amazing creatures God created at the beginning of the world to the powerful kings who reigned over ancient Israel to Jesus’s gift of eternal life for you and your family—God has a beautiful and exciting plan for the world. Where do you fit into that plan? How are the truths found in God’s Word reflected in your life?

This Bible storybook features 15 episodes highlighting key milestones in God’s story, packed with dozens of scenes—combining stories from God’s Word with brand-new captivating illustrations from Brazilian master-artist Sergio Cariello, illustrator of the bestselling The Action Bible . Discover your family’s place in God’s redemptive story and together put your faith into action! Interactive features include:

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Childrens

256 pages, Hardcover

Published October 1, 2017

About the author

Catherine DeVries has written more than twenty-five books for children, including the bestselling Adventure Bible Storybook. She lives with her family in the Colorado forest.

Reviews

[Wade · Rating 5 out of 5]

My 7 year old loved me reading this to him each night and then discussing it after each section. The pictures are great in a graphic novel fashion. The author does a great job hitting most of the biblical highlights. While there are obviously many things omitted since it is the Bible packed into 200 pages (Job, Psalms, Abraham’s first son Ishmael), it is well done. I was very happy he kept in the mentions of baptism, including Jesus’ baptism and the Great Commission, since we unfortunately see this omitted nowadays. This is a great book for the youngsters and knowing my son will read this at night by himself as well and be able to understand it well.

[Linda J.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Who knew the Bible could so colorfully come alive and jump out of the pages with abundant action and thrilling us with amazing true life stories that will impact our every day lives! The Action Storybook Bible is formatted in such a way that kids of all ages will be able to understand the simple truths of God's teaching.



I loved the bold and bright colorful illustrations, keeping the text short and to the point. The wrap up at the end of each chapter gives a super quick summary to reinforce the story that was just told and a thank you prayer for all of God's blessings.



If you ever wondered what Noah's ark might have looked like, or the parting of the Red Sea, this book will captivate and enrich your reading of God's word. A book for the whole family.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. All opinions are my own.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Graphic novels are extremely popular right now but I’ve found that “clean” graphic novels are few and far between…what could be better than the Bible in graphic novel form?
There is something special about seeing illustrations beside well known and loved Bible stories. It adds something to the story. I was moved by the story of Joseph, seeing him on the selling block with chains on his neck and wrists really helped me picture the story in a new way and made it feel much more real. The artwork is very well done and the stories are written in an easy to understand format.
This would be a great gift for many people…from those who are starting out with reading the Bible, or those who are familiar with the Bible. I think it’s geared toward children and teenagers but I think people of all ages would enjoy it, I certainly did.
I highly recommend The Action Storybook Bible!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Litfuse to review.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good Bible for preschool and young elementary age readers. The illustrations are great and the small amount of text is good for beginning readers and families with young children. The major Old Testament stories are included. The New Testament representation is slim with just the story of Jesus and a bit from Revelation. I do like that the gospel message is very clearly presented.

I read a preview digital edition on my Kindle Fire. I was impressed with the design and presentation on a small device. It would be a good ebook for kids to read on a tablet. I think it is a good way to introduce young children to the Bible.

I received an egalley of this book through Litfuse. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this beautiful story book for children. I love picture books even tho my son is almost 16.
I guess you can say I'm a kid at heart and will never grow up as long as I have Jesus.
I enjoyed the message and the beautiful pictures that were in it.
The artist did a fabulous job in bringing the stories to life making me want to jump into the book and be with all the people.
I received this beautiful book for free and in no way required to review this book

[Becky Van Daniker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a super fun interactive Bible. Can't wait to post my review soon.

Update: I LOVE this so much! The creators of The Action Bible include beautiful and fantastic artwork that goes along with the stories that they highlighted. Perfect for families and/or those who work with children to use as an interactive tool. Children will learn all about God’s creation, sin, salvation, how to share their faith with others, and so much more. I’m not a kid and I enjoyed this!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun, interactive book that my children will enjoy for many years to come.  Don't mistake this illustrated book to be a replacement for a Bible. It's more like a Bible storybook.  This book synopsis says that it is for children eight and under. However, my ten-year-old enjoyed the illustrations and stories just the same.

The Action Storybook Bible would be a wonderful devotional tool to get children excited about the scripture.  The illustrations are gripping and truly the work of a master artist. In fact—Sergio Cariello has provided artwork for Marvel and DC Comics.  He has brought to life Batman, Spiderman, Fantastic Four and dozens of other characters.  His expertise brings the Bible to life in an innovative and creative way that children will appreciate.

I think it's important for young children to have a guide to help them establish a close walk with the Lord. A person isn't going to know how to do that. They have to be taught and led. Each story in this book is followed by a call to action that will do just that.

This is an excellent choice in a book for parents and children to read together to grow their faith.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. All opinions are my own.

This review was originally posted on A Simply Enchanted Life

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Children who enjoy action-packed stories paired with powerful illustrations are going to absolutely love "The Action Storybook Bible". My own children were immediately engaged from the first page, and simply couldn't get enough! The drawings are lively and detailed, leaping off the page and truly adding to the story in a unique manner. And the author has done a good job at reflecting the essence of each Biblical story in the manner she told it, such that children are really getting a great overview of God's word in one fell swoop. As a parent, I liked how the end of each chapter included a section called "Life, Faith, Action", which includes some good talking points parents can go over with their children to really emphasize the truth of each story, along with a brief prayer that will help children grow in their faith in God. And perhaps the best part of the book is that children will be so mesmerized by what is on the page, they will barely realize that they are learning important truths and Biblical facts along the way. Really, what more could a parent ask for?

Anytime I come across a Bible-based product geared towards my children, I rely most on my children's impressions to see if they find the book interesting and of benefit to them. Both my children and I feel that this is a wonderful book, especially for those kids who enjoy graphic type novels in particular. We give it a high rating and award a full 5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher and the Litfuse Publicity group, for the purposes of this unbiased review.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

We have The Action Bible and LOVE it. This Action Storybook Bible is done with the same style of gorgeous artwork(with many new ones). It does stay pretty close to the Bible, but liberties are taken a bit here and there with thoughts and words that aren't within the Bible. It's wasn't really anything major, but I was bothered by the wording at times. I still like it enough to use with my boys(with a bit of discussion here and there). Knowing what's in God's Word and discussing things that venture into "guessing territory" is always key to reading Bible history books, written by us imperfect humans.

The "stories"(which I'll refer to as chapters) of Bible history within this book really just cover the main people that we think of within the Bible, like Adam and Eve, Noah, Joseph, Moses, etc. Many of them combine historical events/people. For example, Joshua and Samson are combined into one. At the end of each chapter, there's a mini devotional, of sorts, called "Life, Faith, Action!" It has a "God in Action" part that shows us God within the story, and then a "Faith in Action" part that gives us a challenge of some sort, like telling your thoughts about the word "king" and the role of one or walking through nature. There's also a sample prayer on that page.

The artwork within this book is truly phenomenal! Even if only for the artwork, I highly recommend The Action Bible and this Action Storybook Bible.

*I was provided an e-copy to check out.

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the Book:

The Action Storybook Bible invites families with children ages 8 and under explore God’s redemptive story together. From the sleek and amazing creatures God created at the beginning of the world to the powerful kings who reigned over ancient Israel to Jesus’s gift of eternal life for you and your family—God has a beautiful and exciting plan for the world. Where do you fit into that plan? How are the truths found in God’s Word reflected in your life?

This Bible storybook features 15 episodes highlighting key milestones in God’s story, packed with dozens of scenes—combining stories from God’s Word with brand-new captivating illustrations from Brazilian master-artist Sergio Cariello, illustrator of the bestselling The Action Bible. Discover your family’s place in God’s redemptive story and together put your faith into action!

Interactive features include:


Fifteen episodes loaded with over 350 brand-new illustrations from master-artist Sergio Cariello.
Short and easy reading for all ages. Take turns telling God’s redemptive story!
The Life, Faith, Action! feature wraps up each episode and helps your family recognize how God is moving through each story, discover how that relates to your daily lives, and feel inspired to put your faith into action.
Heroes Hall of Fame index, where you can look up your favorite Bible characters and discover their stories!


My Review:

These days Bibles aren't as plain as they use to be. They come with multiple features now. The Action Storybook Bible is one of those Bibles that is designed to keep kiddos engaged and coming back for more. Among it's nearly 250 pages there is something youthful and unique that most children's Bibles do not contain. The Action Storybook Bile is incredibly similar to a comic book type of vibe. My husband and boys love it. They enjoy it far more than their regular Bibles. Therefore they read it more, which makes this mama happy.


Each of the illustrations are very lifelike and really engage the reader into the story, which is another great feature. After each subsection is a Life Faith Action Page explaining or summing up what has been read and of course a prayer, too. God in Action and faith in action are great ways to see the story expanded and how to apply it to our everyday lives.


Just as the characters in the Bible we are to learn from God each day. As well as the people He used to tell His story. The great mercy that our Lord offers us every day that never ends. This Bible is perfect for ages 8 and under. A great Bible for boys or girls and the perfect gift for the holiday season. Retail price is $13.98 and releases on October the 1st, here is the link to learn more.



**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Jill H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is meant for parents, teachers, and other people that work with children to read.

"The Action Storybook Bible" takes children from the beginning Bible book of Genesis to the ending book of Revelation in storybook format. Children can visualize through color illustrations what Jesus (Yeshua), Adam and Eve, Abraham, Esther, Moses, and different prophets might have looked like and what they did throughout their experiences as written in the Bible. At the end of each section there is a Life, Faith, and Action portion which shows how God was in action during that part of Scripture, how faith can be put in action through what children learned, and an ending prayer that also applies to the Scripture that usually involves expressing thankfulness. After the Scriptures are broken down in storybook format, there is another story that goes through the Scriptures faster. At the end of both stories (the longer and shorter one), there is a Scripture Hall of Fame index which lists the major people in the Bible stories throughout this book, a description of their importance, what page(s) they can be found on in this book, and visual clues to help children locate pictures associated with them in previous pages.

I think it will be interesting for a lot of children to read this storybook Bible and it will help many of them to understand the Scriptures better. I like that it is broken down into sections so different stories of the Bible can be focused on in different timeframes. I like how children can think about what they read through the Life, Faith, and Action portions at the end of the sections and I think that might help some children learn how to start praying and some children may learn how to pray deeper through those prayers.

I really like how there was a faster story version of the Scriptures at the back of the book, in case children already know a lot of the Bible stories and want to read a summarized version. In my opinion, the Hall of Fame index is a great addition to this storybook Bible because it will help children to review what they learned about people in the Bible and interact more with the Bible stories.

I received a digital copy of this for the purpose of reviewing it.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautifully illustrated bible is sure to be a hit for children. The illustrations are done very well as the brilliant colors dance across the pages. I loved the way the Bible stories are told in easy to understand ways that help children grasp the concepts of each theme. As I started the first story I immediately felt like the story came to life. The words are simple but effective with God's word explained in an easy to use format I loved that at the end of each story is a summary of what the story was about. It also includes a question to discuss with your children as they share what they thought about the story.

I love this bible because I love how it is kid friendly and so easy to read and follow along. It will be a great way for parents to share God's word while seeing the stories pop off the pages. I loved that there is a prayer included at the end of each story . This is a wonderful way to pray with your children and reinforce what they just learned. It is a very appealing bible with illustrations in color and stories written in a way that children of all ages will be able to understand. The Action Storybook Bible includes The Old and New Testament with scripture references that help identify where the stories are found in the Bible.

In today's wave of technology for children, I can see how this bible would appeal to them. They are a generation of visualization and this bible hits high marks in achieving this. The book is sturdy with pages that are not easy to tear. I am very impressed at what is included at the end of the book. They have included several people from the Bible and wrote an individual excerpt about them. This is a wonderful reference if you are wanting to talk about a particular person from the Bible. I am very impressed with the overall way the book is written and illustrated. This is a must have Bible for children as they learn about His Word.

I received a copy of this book from LitFuse. The review is my own opinion.

[Keri My Table of Three · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this book from LitFuse Publicity.

The Action Storybook Bible was a great read for me and my son (9). It was exciting, fun, and the illustrations were bright and wonderfully done. My son, Nate enjoyed reading taking turns reading to me as we covered the 15 Bible stories in this book. He found the text easy to read and loved how he could see the stories come to life on the pages.

As far as the book is a “Bible” I would say it is true to the message but as the title of the book implies it is more of a storybook than an actual Bible. We didn’t mind that, in fact, we enjoyed reading the scriptures in our family Bible then switching over to the Action Storybook Bible to see those scriptures in action. It was definitely a fun time learning the Word.

At the end of each story, there is a section that the authors call “Life, Faith, Action”. In this section of the book, the authors summarize what the story was about and then include a simple prayer along those lines. My son really enjoyed leading those prayers, which I thought was super sweet, of course.

We were sent a digital copy to read. I felt that it made a great digital book for any child that has his or her own tablet. My son is almost 9 and I think he will get lots of use out of this book so we can’t wait to get our hard copy.

So if you are looking for a fun way to dive into some of the stories of the Bible, then this storybook is just thing. It would make an awesome gift for boys and girls that are young readers or maybe even for some preteens and teens that love comic style books. I

[Lauren DuPrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first learned about The Action Storybook Bible a few years ago from a couple at church who had purchased it for their sons. The concept of creating a comic style Bible for kids is definitely unique and since I hadn't read The Action Storybook Bible previously, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I was very pleased to find that this format of the Bible is a great way to engage children ages 8-11 in the big pictures of Scripture - God redeeming a sinful people to Himself through His one and only Son, Jesus Christ. The artistry is exceptional and this Bible reads like an actual comic.

Each story is the perfect length for kids and is written in such a way that they will grasp what is happening in each one. At the conclusion of each story, there are questions for parents to discuss with their children and a little prayer based on what happened in the story.

My favorite aspects of The Action Storybook Bible are:

- It presents the Gospel in a way that is easy for kids to understand
- The stories highlight different aspects of God's character

I really enjoyed reading The Action Storybook Bible and I believe you (and especially your kids) will too!

I highly recommend this book as a tool for introducing children to the key concepts of the Gospel and for providing them with a basic overview of the Bible as a whole. 

I received The Action Storybook Bible ebook compliments of Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

[Elisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

When i saw this was available for review, i couldn't help but jump on it. As a Christian and a mother, I always look for fun and interactive ways to teach my daughter about the Bible; the stories it holds, the lessons, the moral code, etc. I know that when I was growing up, it felt like a real challenge to find fun ways to learn about God, who Jesus is, and everything between. Although, I loved car rides because that meant Adventures in Odyssey! Anyway, I digress...this was such a fun and captivating way to learn about all the stories and lessons the Bible holds. I "tested this story book on my daughter and she loved it. Kid approved! Made this mommy very happy :) I don't think I can rave enough about this storybook Bible! No, this isn't a replacement for your child's Bible, but instead a great addition and teaching tool. The illustrations are wonderfully done. My daughter loved pouring over each picture! Even though this says 8 and younger, I doubt my daughter will be losing interest in this anytime soon and she just turned 8! I am so glad and thankful that publisher's authors, illustrators, and everyone else I am forgetting to mention come together and create interactive, entertaining, and fun learning tools for parents and kids to learn about the Bible and all it has to offer.

For my full review, go to:
http://bookjunkiemom.blogspot.com/201...

[Rachel DeVaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has a cartoon action type feel to it with the drawings but still depicts the bible stories reverently in my opinion.
I love that after each story section there is a “Life, Faith, Action!” segment which gives a little recap of the story, asks the reader some basic questions to build on Faith, and has a little prayer.
Also included in the back of the book is a “Hall of Fame visual index” which includes a list an alphabetical list of people throughout the bible (like Deborah, Abraham, Isaac etc) with some brief facts.
This book is recommended for ages 8 and below and is perfect for younger readers wanting to look at pictures or older readers wanting to read on their own. My boys enjoyed reading it before bed.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.

STORIED INCLUDED:
OLD TESTAMENT
“God created the world”
“People fall deep into sin”
“God’s covenant promise”
“From favorite to forgotten.. to favorite”
“The great rescue”
“Into the promised land”
“A time of kings”
“A time of exile”
“A time of prophets”
NEW TESTAMENT
“Jesus lives on earth”
“Jesus does miracles”
“The gift of salvation”
“The church begins”
“Jesus will return”
“For God so loves us”

[LeAnne Klopfenstein · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the layout, illustrations, and delivery of the Bible stories found in The Action Storybook Bible. My 6 children range in age from 17-3; this particular Bible storybook isn't really one that interest my 3 year olds, but my 5 year old son enjoys it.....and his 15 year old brother enjoys reading it to him! I think my 5 year old will continue to grow into this book, as it isn't too "cutesy" and should hold his interest for a while. As a family we enjoy DC & Marvel comics, and I think that is one reason we like the Bible illustrations. I still strongly recommend (as I would for any storybook Bible) that this is not your only source of Bible knowledge for you or your kids, but that you incorporate it into time spent within a Bible as well.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher, but was under no obligation to write a review. My honest opinion has been provided without any requirement to write a positive review.*

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Action Storybook Bible is a lovely illustrated book for children filled with stories of the bible. It would be a great book to give to a child or to a new Christian of any age. The illustrations bring the stories of The Bible alive. This is a fabulous tool for introducing The Bible.

The beautiful illustrations bring 15 of the most compelling bible stories to life. Young children will devour this book. I wish that it had been available when my sons were young. This book is not intended to replace The Bible but rather to enhance it. At the end of each story there is a section called Life, Faith, Action! that summarizes what the story is about and gives a God in Action and Faith in Action summary and then a prayer.

I cannot overemphasize how beautifully this book, The Action Storybook Bible, is illustrated. I highly recommend The Action Storybook Bible.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have 2 young boys (ages 3 and 5) so I jumped on the opportunity to review this Action Storybook Bible. Filled with lots of color and illustrations this Bible holds their attention well and keeps them engaged. With stories about Creation, Noah, Moses, and Jesus (plus loads more) your children will get a fun overview of the Bible. At the end of each "chapter" there is a "Life, Faith, Action!" section that reviews the story, challenges the child to think, and ends with a prayer.

Beautiful and STUNNING illustrations grace the pages of this Bible like you have never seen before.

I am excited to continue reading through this book with my kiddos and I know that they will love reading it on their own in the years to come.

I received a complimentary copy of The Action Storybook Bible. I was not required to submit a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Peter Yock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this with my 5yo and 6yo ... the comic quality is excellent - outstanding. Design on point.

I’d like to see a grace-framed version - in the tradition of the big picture story bible. I skipped most of the reflections at the end of each chapter because they weren’t gospel-centred- but if you can provide that framework yourself, this works well. That said, it was nice having simple pre-prepared prayers to pray at each chapter’s end to mix up how I pray with the kids. Grateful for it.

[Pug · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actually a very well-done and accurate little Bible. A simplified version of the graphic novel The Action Bible. Good illustrations, although personally I would prefer the Jesus on the cover to look a little less demented.

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent, engaging illustrations made this fun for my four year old son!
The message is more of an overview, nicely summarizing the big picture, but not as profound as the Jesus Storybook Bible, not as interpretive.

[John Brackbill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my second time reading through (with my two oldest).

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

So well done, my 5 year old absolutely loved it! Looking forward to reading the lounger action bible with her soon.

[Ammie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was just okay for me. Storybook Bibles are hit and miss with me, and this one, I could have skipped it.

[Corene Musga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent learning about bible as a guide. Csm

[Margaret Chind]

Originally posted on Creative Madness Mama. 

Our shelves contain a plethora of Storybook Bibles (as well as full Bibles) so why, you ask, would I be here today to talk to you about another new release... Several years ago, I introduced my oldest daughter to The Action Bible , soon followed by both The Action Bible New Testament & Devotional, and The Action Bible Handbook. She has fallen in love with The Action Bible series. I am in love with her enthusiasm to spend hours reading and studying Bible stories.

As a matter of fact, in the last year and a half our chosen Bible curriculum has not been working out so well with us. She reads her own personal Bible (a HCBS Princess leatherbound edition) but with our previous curriculum the stories and their details just were not sticking to memory for her like it did with history. I decided to still use the recommended storybook Bible with her, but to also have her read the specific story from The Action Bible. At the time we started it was a bit beyond her reading but she started getting all the appropriate answers and details down to memory. I wish we had a way to have introduced her to The Action Bible series when she was younger... and now with her siblings I do because of the fabulous creation of their latest in the series The Action Storybook Bible. 

Interactive features include:

Fifteen key episodes from God’s Word—each one loaded with several stories along with over 350 brand-new illustrations throughout.
Short and easy readings—for children ages eight and under with rich, colorful images.

Life, Faith, Action! features—conclude every episode and invite families to talk about how God moves in the stories, how to see God in life today, how to put faith into action, and how to easily talk to God with a suggested prayer.

Hall of Fame visual index—the place to look up favorite Bible characters by discovering their icon connections and finding them in the stories.

 

Available as Hardcover or Kindle (assumedly other eBook editions as well), for the purposes of this review I have had the opportunity to preview an advanced readers digital copy through Adobe Digital Editions on a two-page spread. When my super hero loving, comic book and graphic novel enthusiast, daughter entered the room while I was previewing the sample copy squeals ensued. While my oldest to some on most levels is beyond the necessity of a Storybook Bible, she is just the oldest. I have three other younger children to follow and know at least one of them is already a comic book and super hero fan as well. I know that the format of this presentation of Biblical stories will reach him, and reach him well.

Love it!
What I love about this series is that it is an interactive interest-grabbing starter to bring kids into something "cool" that will develop a curiosity and passion for learning further Bible stories. Finding the right medium to introduce your children to reading is of vast importance. Over my years of being a nanny, teacher, and in general observer with each child that doesn't have a passion for reading had not yet found that book which grabbed them and brought them into the amazing power of reading. With reading the Bible it is even more important!

In The Action Storybook Bible does not have comment and thought bubbles, but large boxes of text. It is perfect for the young confident reader or for reading aloud. While only I, and my oldest daughter, have experienced it via the computer I cannot wait to get a copy in hand as I know this is going to be read aloud and enjoyed by all of my children! At the end of each section is a Life, Faith, Action! page pulling out important messages. Lastly, at the very end, there is a Hall of Fame Visual Index which is a picture glossary of characters. This is a great building knowledge tool and I know it is about to become one of the favorites for my kiddos. Will it be yours also?

 

This review was originally posted on Creative Madness Mama.