God’s Design by Sally Michael and Gary Steward

This resource book covers the topic of manhood and womanhood from a Biblical, Complementarian point of view. It is broken into 26 chapters to be read aloud to children, followed by reflection questions and often an activity idea. Most of the chapters highlight the good differences between men and women, focusing especially on marriage and the church.

Ages: 8-12

I am a strong Complementarian, so that is the lens through which I am reviewing this book. This is a very easy, open-and-go resource for any family who is looking to lay a firm foundation of God’s good, but different design for men and women. I love how every chapter contains scripture and points back to the Word of God over and over. This is definitely a book to do with your child, not to have them do independently. It will surely spark conversations about some sensitive topics, in a good way, so be prepared!

This is published in conjunction with the children’s division of John Piper’s ministry, Desiring God. Although I myself am a firm Complementarian, I have disagreed with some of Piper’s views in the past about men’s authority over women not in the context of the church or marriage, which I see hints of here and there in this book. From chapter six, “Just like in God the Father’s relationship to the Son, the man has been given a kind of headship over the woman. We learn this from the Bible: ‘The head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God’ (1 Corinthians 11:3). Even though their relationship and roles are different, a man and a woman are equal, and each is just as important as the other.”

While most of this I love, I believe the context of this passage is clearly pointing to marriage and the last sentence would have better read, “Even though their relationship and roles are different, a husband and wife are equal, and each is just as important as the other.” There are a few other instances similar to this as well.

Do be aware that this book covers some rather sensitive topics such as homosexuality, abortion, and feminism (calling them by name), as well as touching on transgenderism (not calling it by name). Make sure your child is ready to handle understanding what is meant by each of these terms.

I especially love the chapter titled “Honoring Each Other,” where the differences between young boys and girls are highlighted and how each can honor the other. It is very practical and helpful. Overall, I feel this is a good resource for families who are ready to start tackling some of these tough but important subjects with their 8-12 year old.

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