Everyone loves an Easter bunny tale or a storied hunt for hidden candy eggs. But when it comes to religious holiday books, many parents and grandparents also seek titles that highlight the fundamental spiritual message of Christianity. These forthcoming Easter titles from faith-based publishers aim to educate and engage the little ones about Christ’s ministry and resurrection.
The Easter Lamb: Jesus, Passover, and God's Amazing Plan to Rescue Us
The Zonderkidz title (out now, ages 6-10) is by theology writer John Greco with illustrations by Sian James. It draws connections from Passover to the story of Jesus’s life and death to show children that God has always cared for them and planned for their salvation, according to the publisher.
God with Us: Bible Stories on the Road to Emmaus
This WaterBrook graphic novel (Apr., ages 8-12) is by former youth pastor Matt Mikalatos with illustrations by David Shephard. According to the publisher, the story imagines Jesus himself, appearing as a mysterious stranger, telling a story of love, hope, and rescue to a family walking home from Passover in Jerusalem.
Kregel’s Easter Treasury of Illustrated Bible Stories
For this book (out now, ages 8-11), which publisher Kregel intends for families to read together, editor Matt Lockhart combines 18 Bible passages with classic illustrations of key moments during Holy Week. The book also includes a reading plan for Lent.
Mary and the Gardener
This Beaming Books title (out now, ages 4-8) is by British broadcast writer Paul Kerensa with illustrations by Leanne Daphne. It retells how Mary Magdalene, weeping at Jesus's empty tomb, is comforted by a man she mistakes for a gardener until Christ reveals his identity to her. “This book reminds us all that Easter marks a new start for Mary—and for everyone,” according to the publisher.
The Promised One: The Wonderful Story of Easter
This is a bedtime story picture book from Lion Cub Books, an imprint of the SPCK (out now, ages 3-6). Written and illustrated by Antonia Woodward, it portrays Jesus’s love and compassion for the sick, hungry, lonely, and needy.
Rise: A Child’s Guide to Eastertide
This Paraclete Press title (out now, ages 4-7) is by Laura Alary, a theologian and prolific author of children’s books, with illustrations by Giuliano Ferri. It follows a young girl throughout the spring season of celebration as she learns about Jesus'’ ministry and resurrection and ponders what the idea of new life means to her.
R Is for Risen
Tyndale's rhyming alphabet storybook (out now, ages 4-6) is by bestselling authors Crystal Bowman and Teri McKinley. It shares the chronology of Easter, “from Palm Sunday to the Resurrection to Jesus calling on believers to spread the Gospel,” according to the publisher.
