Gus Loses His Grip: When You Want Something Too Much by David Powlison

Gus loves candy. On Easter morning, he gets a basket full of candy! It doesn’t last long though and soon he is thinking about ways he can get more candy. When he goes shopping with his mom, the man at the candy stand tells Gus he can take one piece of candy. Following the leading of a friend, Gus fills his mouth and pockets full of candy. When his parents realize what has happened, they make Gus return the candy and apologize.

Gus’s dad takes him fishing and they talk about when things get a grip on their heart, things besides Jesus. They write on notes, “Who will free me from being gripped by sin? Thank God the answer is Jesus!” They put the notes in their pockets to help remind themselves that only Jesus can help them lose their grip.

This book is so well written and so relatable for children, as with all of the books in the Good News for Little Hearts series. Every child struggles with the lure of things- not just children!- and this book addresses their sinful desires with an understandable and gentle approach that will resonate in their hearts. The illustrations are warm and inviting and will capture your children’s imagination. There are also bible verses and a parent resource page in the back. I highly recommend this book for your family!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclaimer for more info.

1. Gus had a hard time thinking about anything besides candy. Is there something, besides Jesus, that you think about too much?
2. Do you need that thing?
3. Could you be happy without that thing?
4. Why is Jesus better than that thing?