Review: Penelope Judd

Penelope Judd book cover on blue background

Imagine my surprise in discovering that the song for this book was released a number of years ago, making me realize that Penelope Judd by Shai Linne must have been in the making for quite some time. I'm grateful that the lyrics can now be found in a tangible form in this Christian children's book.

Many thanks to Merge Public Relations for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Book Synopsis

Based on his song, “Penelope Judd,” Shai Linne tells an allegorical tale that helps kids understand the Gospel story.

Penelope Judd is a young girl living in a very messy land. Her whole town is covered in mud and only filled with children. No one is kind, the kids fight constantly, everything is sad and dirty, and Penelope feels hopeless. But one day, she receives a message that changes everything. She has been invited to meet a spotless Prince.

This lyrical story helps kids see that, like Penelope, people live in a broken, messy, sinful world. But long ago, a Prince left His perfect home in heaven to come to earth where sin and death are everywhere––kind of like the muddy town. He lived a sinless life and took the punishment for our sin on the cross so that, like Penelope, we can be made new.

The words in this book follow the song's lyrics so that kids can read and listen simultaneously.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

What a treat to read a book based on an existing song! I loved getting to listen along as it brought the words to life, especially when you hear the children sing along. Penelope Judd is a sweet book filled with spiritual allegories that share the Gospel message. It's relatable in that Penelope doesn't feel as if she fits in, yet discovers that there is indeed a place for her. It also includes fun and clear illustrations that brings the song to the pages in a colourful way.

Parents will appreciate the definitions provided as they spark questions with little ones. It's a book that would likely be on repeat as the tune is catchy and the story is simple enough to be memorable, with enough to keep mining through even after repeated tellings. Readers looking for a beautiful picture of what it means to be a child of God will enjoy sharing this special story that undeniably points to Jesus.

Book Summary

Format of book: 📖
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendation: 👍

Comments

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