Review of Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
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Elisabeth Gabriel
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- Latest Review: Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids by Jemima Paul, Arvind Paul
Review of Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
[Following is a volunteer review of "Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids" by Jemima Paul, Arvind Paul.]
This book is appropriate for parents seeking a simple, bible-centric, children's level introduction to traditional Christian teachings about Heaven and Hell. Most of the biblical references come from Revelations, but some are from Isaiah, Matthew, John, Acts, Mark and Romans. Through these references the child is introduced to the Kingdom of Heaven as explained in most traditional, protestant, bible-centered, Christian churches. The street is made of gold, Jesus is a handsome man that lights up the Kingdom, there are fruits and animals. Cameo appearances by Queen Esther and Noah broaden the scope of the teachings imparted. The story is fun and heart-warming. Jesus is powerful but accessible. Heaven is depicted as a happier version of earth. There is eating, dancing, sleeping. Everything is drawn directly from the bible with a literal, humanist interpretation of the Heavenly Kingdom. Hell, on the other hand is depicted as people in fiery caves with no hair, suffering because of their lack of creature needs and comforts including medicine.
Depending on which branch/sect of Christianity the parents follow, this may or may not be an acceptable introduction to Christian theology. For some it is a perfectly acceptable story for others it may border on the mundane (blasphemous would perhaps be too much). If a continuation of fleshly creature needs and comforts don’t align with your view of Heaven, this is probably not the right book for you nor your children. Given the humanist perspective on humanity’s final destination, it seems likely to inspire materialistic comformity and a view of poverty and penance as damnation and punishment rather than purgative expiation. Most protestant denominations will probably find this a charming and cute Christian story. Some Catholics and Orthodox Christians of various types (Greek, Russian, etc.) may find this bordering on heretical or otherwise unacceptable, insofar as it promotes a somewhat materialistic, humanistic view of paradise. It really depends on how strict you are and how literally you take the bible.
Theological considerations aside, it would make a good bedtime story book. The language is simple and straight-forward. The illustrations are beautiful. The biblical references could be a good starting point for deeper conversations about the original texts. For parents who like to plan, the book could be read in 10minute increments over six days. I would recommend a thorough reading before deciding on whether or not it is appropriate for your children, but, if it aligns with your view of Christianity, then it is a fun and well intentioned, if not precisely illumined, addition to any Christian children’s library.
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Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes | on Smashwords
This book is appropriate for parents seeking a simple, bible-centric, children's level introduction to traditional Christian teachings about Heaven and Hell. Most of the biblical references come from Revelations, but some are from Isaiah, Matthew, John, Acts, Mark and Romans. Through these references the child is introduced to the Kingdom of Heaven as explained in most traditional, protestant, bible-centered, Christian churches. The street is made of gold, Jesus is a handsome man that lights up the Kingdom, there are fruits and animals. Cameo appearances by Queen Esther and Noah broaden the scope of the teachings imparted. The story is fun and heart-warming. Jesus is powerful but accessible. Heaven is depicted as a happier version of earth. There is eating, dancing, sleeping. Everything is drawn directly from the bible with a literal, humanist interpretation of the Heavenly Kingdom. Hell, on the other hand is depicted as people in fiery caves with no hair, suffering because of their lack of creature needs and comforts including medicine.
Depending on which branch/sect of Christianity the parents follow, this may or may not be an acceptable introduction to Christian theology. For some it is a perfectly acceptable story for others it may border on the mundane (blasphemous would perhaps be too much). If a continuation of fleshly creature needs and comforts don’t align with your view of Heaven, this is probably not the right book for you nor your children. Given the humanist perspective on humanity’s final destination, it seems likely to inspire materialistic comformity and a view of poverty and penance as damnation and punishment rather than purgative expiation. Most protestant denominations will probably find this a charming and cute Christian story. Some Catholics and Orthodox Christians of various types (Greek, Russian, etc.) may find this bordering on heretical or otherwise unacceptable, insofar as it promotes a somewhat materialistic, humanistic view of paradise. It really depends on how strict you are and how literally you take the bible.
Theological considerations aside, it would make a good bedtime story book. The language is simple and straight-forward. The illustrations are beautiful. The biblical references could be a good starting point for deeper conversations about the original texts. For parents who like to plan, the book could be read in 10minute increments over six days. I would recommend a thorough reading before deciding on whether or not it is appropriate for your children, but, if it aligns with your view of Christianity, then it is a fun and well intentioned, if not precisely illumined, addition to any Christian children’s library.
******
Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes | on Smashwords
Latest Review: Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids by Jemima Paul, Arvind Paul
