Kids Talk About God by Carey Kinsolving and Friends

I love books that are honest and this one certainly meets the criteria. The little picture book attempts to give answers to many of religion’s toughest questions, answered by children ages 6-12. I’m not sure how these children were selected, but their candor and understanding of tough subject matter is sometimes eye-opening.

The book is set up with a question at the top of the page and four to five answers below. Several of the questions also have illustrations to accompany them. Some of the illustrations were very good! As an adult raised Lutheran, I was pleased that so many of the answers were so insightful and that kids were able to relate these complex ideas into their lives.

I worked at a church camp as a counselor in the past and remember hearing some interesting interpretations of our Bible lessons then, too. This book just reminded me that kids often say things the simplest and best way. I thought there were several responses that were worth mentioning.

Even if people doubt you and say you’re crazy, just ignore them. Remember, you’re doing it for God. –Brittany 11 (referring to Noah’s Ark)

Jesus meant I am the bread, and you are the butter as in ‘I am in charge of you.’
--Elizabeth 9 (referring to Jesus’ statement I am the bread of life.)

If you don’t want to tell your parents, it’s not what God wants you to do.—Lacey 12
(referring to following the ten commandments.)