Lauren Ducommun

The Story of Home by Caroline Saunders is about God at work in the Bible’s tales of home. Picture books focusing on aspects within biblical theology are slowly entering the market—which is a great thing—but I would have to say that Saunders’ The Story of Home is one of my favorite!

Saunders starts in the Garden of Eden, introducing us to the theme of home, saying, “No one makes a home like God!” She recounts the story of the serpent, of how Adam and Eve had to leave their home, and of people who were so homesick. Saunders does an excellent job at focusing on one theme—and not getting distracted by rabbit trails. This makes it very simple for kids ages 4 – 8 to remember the main message of home.

The Story of Home then guides readers through the tale of Moses, the building of the Tabernacle, the Promised Land, and the temple hinting at a promised future home that will last forever. Finally, we are introduced to Jesus, who “made His home on earth as a human.” He reminded us of the home he is building for us—and how he built it “by living the perfect life no other human could” and by “dying the death only sinners deserve.” The gospel message is clearly presented, but not in a forceful way. Saunders weaves it beautifully into her story about home and reminds us of the future when all of God’s people will be together with God in our new home.

For children familiar with the big picture of the Bible, The Story of Home is a wonderful picture book that introduces them to the biblical theology of home. Saunders creatively and truthfully traces this theme throughout in a simple yet fun way.

The Story of Home
by Caroline Saunders
B&H Kids, 2023
32 pages