Little Pilgrim’s Progress (Illustrated Edition) by Helen L. Taylor

This is an adaptation of John Bunyan’s classic, The Pilgrim’s Progress for children ages 8-12. This new, updated version is hardcover and fully illustrated. It is an allegory of coming to know Christ as your savior and then living the Christian life. It follows a boy, Christian, and in part II his sister, Christiana, who travel through incredible hardships to reach the Celestial City to meet the King who loves them. This fully illustrated edition depicts the characters as woodland creatures.

There are many reasons that Pilgrim’s Progress is the most sold book in the world next to the Bible. Its allegories compel us to lay down our burdens and walk the narrow path, entrusting our lives to the King who always knows what is best. This adaptation takes Bunyan’s complex language and makes the story entirely relatable as well as easy to understand for even younger readers (or listeners). The main storylines and themes stay true to the original but are kept to only a few pages each. Each chapter stands alone well, but also will leave your kiddos begging for just one more chapter.

This would make a great read-aloud, or family devotional for children of all ages. Reading this with your children will be sure to foster great discussions and help you as a parent put flesh to God’s Word and His commands. Since the storyline stays so true to the original, you can be sure that there will be points of conviction and encouragement even for adult readers.

It is especially helpful and endearing that Little Christian in this book is portrayed as a child. He is a believable and relatable character for children, who often find themselves looking up to adult examples in the faith. In addition to that, the reader can more easily view him or herself as a child of God(or “the King” as He is portrayed in this allegory) as Christian is. This scriptural concept will be more real, meaningful, and sweet to the reader after reading this adaptation of the classic.

Joe Sutphin’s illustrations are captivating and will draw you in as well as your children, without being too intense for younger readers. This book will quickly become a favorite and a family heirloom. I highly recommend this for your family!

This review was written in conjunction with founder Korrie Johnson and contributor, Brittany Cady. To find out more about Brittany, click HERE.

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