This list of Christian chapter books for kids is designed to help parents find books to help their children enjoy reading while also strengthening their faith.
Reading has many benefits, whether a child is reading independently or read to. As a Christian, I love finding books that will help encourage my children to grow in their faith, whether that is through overtly Christian messages or fictional stories that help share spiritual truths.
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Our Favorite Christian Chapter Books for Kids
Chronicles of Narnia
“Safe?” said Mr Beaver …” Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.”
In our family, The Chronicles of Narnia gets the vote for the one book we would take on a desert island (after the Bible). It is a family favorite that is full of adventure and excitement. If we travel and stay in a hotel, the first thing my children do is open the wardrobe doors to look for a passageway to Narnia. These books are perfect for family read-alouds or for middle- and high-school students to read independently. You can pair your reading with these fun art lessons from Nana for a little more Narnia fun.
The Green Ember Series
“My place beside you, my blood for yours, ’till the Green Ember rises, or the end of the world!”
If your family loves The Chronicles of Narnia, you must check out the Green Ember Series. This is a modern series (the author, SD Smith, is still adding to the series), but it has a similar feel to the books of CS Lewis and Tolkien. This book uses animals as its main characters. As you listen, you will fall in love with the “rabbits with swords,” and cheer them on to the end. The books contain battles, adventures, love, and more. While they are purely fictional, they share valuable truths and moral lessons without feeling preachy.
Also, if you enjoy the Green Ember series, make sure to check out SD Smith’s new Jack Zulu series for more fun adventures. You can even enjoy some fun Green Ember art lessons from Nana and an interview with the author.
Adventures in Odyssey
You may have heard the Adventures in Odyssey radio drama on the radio or through their streaming platform, but did you know they have several book series? Adventures in Odyssey has been a staple in many homes over the years with their fun and engaging stories that teach the truth of living by God’s word.
Similarly, their book series shares the adventures of the radio drama characters we have come to know and love. These books use many of the same characters from the radio drama, but they are standalone if you are not already an Adventures in Odyssey listener.
Tricia’s daughter shared a review of the Adventures in Odyssey series when she was younger.
The Mandie Series
The Mandie series by Loid Gladys Leppard was a favorite of mine as a child. I have fond memories of my mom going to the local Christian bookstore to buy me the next book in the series and then me reading the whole book in just one or two days because I enjoyed it so much. The main character and heroine of the series, Mandie, is a young girl.
In the first book, Mandie’s father dies, leaving her with an “evil” stepmother. She runs away with the help of her ‘Uncle Ned,’ who is her father’s dear Native American friend. He helps her find more of her family and is there for her throughout her many adventures.
In the Christian chapter books for kids category, these books are incredibly engaging for young, adventurous girls, but their engaging story lines and fun mysteries make them fun reads for boys and girls alike. They are suitable for older elementary and middle-grade students.
Towers of Light
Towers of Light is another newer series written by Allen Brokken. These books follow the daring adventures of three young siblings as they strive to rescue their parents and help shine the “true light” in the land. Each child has a weapon with special powers powered by “the light.” They and the adults who are there to protect them encounter many obstacles along their quest. They are reminded to trust and focus on God as they go through the story.
It is a fictional story that helps children understand the true battle of good versus evil in this world. This series does contain some intense scenes, so it may not be appropriate for very sensitive children. It is great as a family read-aloud or as an independent read for middle grades and older.
As a bonus, they are offering 10% off their books using code: schoolinswag when purchased directly from Towers of Light.
Secrets of the Wildflowers
Sarah Talbert wrote Secrets of the Wildflowers for high school students. Through the fictional story of Miu, students will learn more about the ancient civilization of Ur, the story of Abraham, and the one true God. Miu goes through many struggles, and the book does share some realistic violence. However, through the story, you see the hope and power of God shine through. This could be just a fun read for a book-loving high school student or added to a study of ancient civilizations.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is a fun (and reasonably short) read for the Christmas season. It is the story of a church Christmas pageant, a family of troubled, unchurched children, and how everyone is reminded about the real meaning of Christmas.
“When they got to the part about swaddling clothes and the manger, Imogene asked, “You mean they tied him up and put him in a feedbox? Where was the Child Welfare?”
You can add these art lessons and other fun ideas to make it a complete unit study. The movie made from the story makes for a fun compare-and-contrast activity. This is a great, relaxed study for the busy Christmas season.
More Chapter Books for Kids
If you love this list, you may want to check out:
- Who What Why Series
- Campground Kids
- The Sugar Creek Gang
- Secret of the Hidden Scrolls
- Christian Heroes Then and Now
- Faithgirlz Series
- Princess in Camo series
- The Left Behind Series
Dawn is a passionate follower of Jesus, wife to Chris, and homeschool mom of four. In her spare time she loves to read, hike, and write on her blog Schoolin’ Swag. She enjoys reviewing curriculum and helping moms find the right fit for their family.
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