God's Very Good Idea

God's Very Good Idea tells the story of God's purpose in creating people different from one another. Author Trillia Newbell presents this children's book through clear text and illustrations that portray diversity. The narrative moves from creation through sin's entrance into the world and into God's plan of redemption. A cast of characters from various backgrounds, abilities, and ethnicities demonstrates these biblical truths throughout the pages. The book's core message centers on unity, diversity, and the gospel as they connect to God's design for humanity. Through accessible language and engaging visuals, it addresses complex topics like racism, prejudice, and reconciliation at a child's level of understanding.

Readers value this children's book for teaching diversity and racial reconciliation from a Biblical perspective. Parents note it provides a framework to discuss race with young children ages 3-8. Liked: - Clear, straightforward messaging about God creating all people in His image - Colorful illustrations representing different ethnicities - Biblical foundation for explaining human differences - Age-appropriate handling of sin and redemption Disliked: - Some found the theology complex for very young children - A few readers wanted more concrete examples of living out the concepts - Several mentioned the book feels short for the price Ratings: Amazon: 4.8/5 from 1,400+ reviews Goodreads: 4.5/5 from 900+ ratings Sample review: "This book helped my 4-year-old understand why God made people to look different. The illustrations kept her attention and sparked good conversations." - Amazon reviewer "Presents deep truths in simple ways children can grasp. My kids request it often." - Goodreads reviewer

ColorFull by Dorena Williamson A child learns through her artist mother that God creates humans in diverse skin colors, reflecting His creativity and design.

When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner The narrative presents God's intentional design of each person's uniqueness and purpose in His creation.

Different by Sally Clarkson and Nathan Clarkson A mother and son share their journey of embracing God-given differences through the lens of neurodiversity and faith.

God Made Me AND You by Shai Linne Children discover biblical foundations for ethnic diversity and learn to celebrate differences within the church community.

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold Students experience a school day where children from different backgrounds come together to learn, play, and build community.

🌟 Author Trillia Newbell served as the Director of Community Outreach for the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention. 🌍 The book was illustrated by Catalina Echeverri, who has created artwork for more than 25 children's books focusing on faith and diversity. 🤝 This children's book teaches about diversity through the lens of Christian theology, explaining how God created all people in His image. 📚 The book is part of the "Tales That Tell the Truth" series, which aims to teach children biblical truth through engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations. 🌈 Released in 2017, the book has been translated into multiple languages and is used in churches and Christian schools across different continents to teach children about racial reconciliation and unity.