The Whole Bible Story - by Marty (Paperback)

This is a wonderful resource for the young people in your life! Troy Schmidt has edited Dr. William H. Marty's classic book, The Whole Bible Story, into an easy-to-read book that shares 'everything that happens in the Bible'. From Genesis to Revelation, from the Creation to the beginning of the New Testament Church in The Book of Acts....it's all here and it's perfect for young readers. There are nineteen chapters filled with Bible scripture and eye-catching black and white illustrations by Heath McPherson, and each chapter ends with special thoughts and tips to increase understanding. This is an appealing and enjoyable way to introduce God's Word to your children or grandchildren, and I believe that The Whole Bible Story would also be a wonderful addition to your church library. I received a copy from Bethany House Publishers. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

This is the entire Biblical account told in story form using today's language and references. It is not a chapter and verse Bible, but something to give older children an idea of what is in the Bible. It is geared toward getting their attention, and does a very good job of it. In that vein, they state attention grabbing facts such as the first couple, Adam and Eve, ran around naked. This book divides the Biblical account into nineteen sections. There are three areas at the beginning of each section that are made to appeal to young people. They tell the important people to look for, what part of the world that it takes place in, and interesting things that happen. At the end of each section, there is an area called, "What's The Point." This contains short, easy to understand summaries of what was just read, and brings the content into sharper focus. There are lots of illustrations that bring even more of the story to life. I think this is loaded with kid appeal, and a child who reads this will have a good working knowledge of the Bible. I also think it will wet their appetite to read the actual Bible--I would recommend getting an easy-to-understand translation or an amplified version. Children ages nine through fourteen will enjoy this 5-star book. Bethany House Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “The Whole Bible Story: Everything that Happens in the Bible,” for the purpose of review.

The Whole Bible Story by William H. Marty with Troy Schmidt is a beautifully illustrated young reader's edition Bible recap that features an overview of the Bible. Each chapter highlights several books or passages from the Bible and describes who the characters are, the setting, and any interesting or background information contained in the chapters discussed. It gives an overview of what is featured in those passages. At the end of each chapter there is a what’s the point section to highlight the overall message of the passage. This is a beautiful way for children to learn more about the Bible. I appreciate the added history and timelines as well as background information focusing on the Bible. This is a great resource in addition to a Bible for children who want to learn more about the Bible. Illustrations are wonderful and additional study information is extremely helpful. Adults would even find the information helpful.

“People naturally want to sin; God has to step in and stop us from destroying ourselves,” is one of the inserts in the What’s the Point section of The Whole Bible Story: Everything That Happens in the Bible, written by Dr. William H. Marty with Troy Schmidt. ~ What ~ This three-hundred-and-four-page paperback targets eight-to-twelve-year-olds who are looking for an abridged, easy-to-read synopsis of the Holy Bible. Using the New International Version, it contains nineteen chapters, a final word, and the writer’s biography. Covering Genesis to Revelation, the chapters range from ten to twenty-four pages, based on the same order of the Bible. Each chapter has a title and Biblical books covered, followed by lists of Who’s Who, Where Are We, and Interesting Stuff. The pages are divided up by noteworthy stories with grayed sidebars and small black and white illustrations. Each ends with a What’s the Point section. ~ Why ~ Having an eight-year-old granddaughter who recently accepted the Lord as her savior, I hope she will be able to read and enjoy this book that minorly explains the Word of God through storytelling. I appreciate that it is not sugar-coated regarding some of the stories such as David killing Goliath, Daniel in the lion’s den, Mary being a virgin, and Jesus shedding His blood on the cross for our sins. The age-related writing is entertaining while interesting facts and information can be gleaned throughout the pages. One chapter I enjoyed was We Are the Champions that covered the book of Joshua. It mentions Joshua, Caleb, and Rahab along with Jericho, Jerusalem, and Ai. A few interesting facts were about Joshua’s name meaning salvation, Rahab being in the genealogical line of Christ, and the ruins of Jericho being found. The stories cover the spies, the wall’s fall, the camp’s sin, the longest day, and dividing the spoil. The points to ponder were about God directing and giving strength and courage, don’t hide your sin, and serve the Lord. ~ Why Not ~ Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not understand the importance of reading the Bible and understanding its content. Some may not care for the sophomoric comments, but they are geared toward fourth-to-sixth-grade readers. The book does not explain much about any of the Bible books after Acts so is limited to mainly story-telling. ~ Wish ~ I wish an added page had the eternal plan of salvation, especially noting to ask for Jesus to forgive one’s sin. I prefer all pronouns of God capitalized for reverence. ~ Want ~ If you are looking for a young reader’s recap of the Bible, this is a great starter to engage preteens to not only learn about the stories in the Word but also apply them to their daily living. Thanks to Bethany House for this complimentary book that I am freely reviewing. Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars