Bible Review: NIrV Study Bible for Kids

NIrV Study Bible for Kids.  Zonderkidz, 2015, 1789 pages.  Available in hardcover, soft cover and ebook editions

Hardcover edition

Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10

Recommended for: ages 6-10

Bottom Line: Though it’s a sizeable chunk for a young child, the NIrV Study Bible contains some helpful features appropriate to the recommended age group.

Unlike other NIrV editions (see our Bible translations post), this is an actual study Bible.  That is, the added features are designed to help the target group (1^st-4th-graders) understand what the Bible actually says, rather than continually trying to relate life issues and personal concerns to scripture.  (Not that it’s wrong to relate life issues to scripture, of course; the question is whether you want a study Bible or a devotional Bible).  The book introductions are extremely simple: one short paragraph and a list of key passages.  For example, here’s the introduction to Job:

Job is a rich man who loses everything.  He loses his riches.  He loses his family.  He even loses his health.  But he never loses his trust in God.  The book of Job explains that we don’t always know why ad things happen.  But we can be sure that God is working.  We can be sure he loves us.  And we can be sure he is always in control.

For the age group, this is entirely appropriate, and I appreciate the easy-reading 10-point font size and text features that don’t clutter up the pages.  These include key verses to memorize, observation questions, and “Check It Out!” boxes that explain customs, Bible terms, and concepts in simple words.  Full-color inserts are mostly illustrations; these are attractive and reverent, and several of them picture Jesus.  The appendix includes eight full-color maps, a basic dictionary, and a five-page supplement about “Life in Bible Times.” It’s an appealing package but note the length: 1789 pages.  This makes a hefty chunk for a kid to lug around, but if you’re willing to spend the money for a children’s translation, this might be a good choice.

Value: 3.75 (out of 5)

Categories: Early Readers, Middle Grades, Bibles and Bible Stories, Gift Books

Cover image from christianbook.com