The Jesus Storybook Bible from Zonderkidz, published in 2007 and written by Sally Lloyd-Jones, recently reached the milestone of two million copies sold.
“It’s so unbelievable,” Lloyd-Jones said. “A book takes on a life of its own and you never know what’s going to happen, but it’s just wonderful and a really huge blessing to think at least two million children have that book.”
Illustrated by Jago, winner of the Macmillan Prize for children’s illustration, The Jesus Storybook Bible tells a simplified version of the story of Jesus’ life, including themes of redemption and forgiveness that are found in the Bible. “It’s basically helping people realize what the Bible is,” said Lloyd-Jones.
There have been eight editions of the storybook Bible since its 2007 debut, including a deluxe edition and a collector’s edition, and the book is now available in 31 languages. The book has also found a surprising readership among adults and teens.
“In a children’s book, you’ve got an opportunity to distill the truth and sort of capture plot line of the Bible, and you can read it in one sitting,” said the author. “It’s like CliffsNotes for the Bible. Some adults maybe never had gotten the full plot line, and it really surprises you when you read it like that.”
A version of The Jesus Storybook Bible for teens and adults titled The Story of God’s Love for You (Zondervan) was released last year.
In April, Zonderkidz will publish Lloyd-Jones’s next children’s title, Baby Wren and the Great Gift, illustrated by Jen Corace. While the book features faith elements, “It’s more about finding your voice,” said Lloyd-Jones.
