Customer Reviews

Piligrim's Progress

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I purchased this book for my nephews when they were 2 and 3, and my own children (2 and 3 also) loved it so much that I bought us a copy, and three more to give away!! The kids love to pore over the pictures, and though the story is written for kids probably 5 and up, my little ones will sit and listen to almost the whole thing! This is a retelling that greatly simplifies the real thing, but remains true to the main themes and tells the story well. The pictures are modern and humorous, so it's easy to relate. As a kid and even college student I was intimidated by Pilgrim's Progress, but I think that if I had been introduced to the story in a fun, non-threatening way, I would have been more motivated to plod through the original and reap the enormous benefits.

Pilgrim's Progress is a picturebook retelling of John Bunyan's classic narrative, intended for younger readers yet powerful for all ages. John Bunyan was a Baptist pastor who started to write the original tale when he was jailed in Bedford, England for preaching. Since then his story has become a widely beloved, metaphorical saga of a pilgrim named Christian in search of the Celestial City. Many monsters seek to lead him astray or devour him along his quest - the wicked Judge Hate-good, the giants of Doubting Castle, the diguesed and deceptive Flatterer, and even the Athiest strives to convince him that the Celestial City does not exist. Yet Christian also makes steadfast friends, such as Faithful, who speaks out against unjust laws at the cost of his life, and Hopeful, who keeps Christian's head above the darkest waters. Colorful, slightly cartoony illustrations decorate a story that despite its elements of whimsy, is at its heart a profoundly powerful parable of the many hardships encountered on the road the faithful walk. Highly recommended.

A man, burdened by the weight of the world on his shoulders, sets out on an epic journey to find salvation for himself, his wife and family. Along the way, he meets dark characters, scary situations, and a shady personality or two. Ultimately, he attains his goal and the gates of heaven swing open to welcome him.

Prolific author Tim Dowley has made the old new again with his wonderful retelling of John Bunyan's classic, The Pilgrim's Progress (Kregel, November 2004, hardcover, 80 pages). Twenty-first century kids (and their parents) will find themselves captivated by Dowley's modernized version of this seventeenth century classic. Illustrator Steve Smallman's brilliant artwork combines with Dowley's storytelling to create a fresh, vibrant effect.

While some of the prose (and wardrobe) have been updated, this version of The Pilgrim's Progress remains a wonderful way to emphasize morality and values with your children in a manner that will capture their attention and imagination.

I have never read the original Pilgrim's Progress to compare this retelling however I witnessed this children's version told in a Sunday school class a few weeks ago. The kids were ages 4 through 10 and some were learning English as a second language. The kids' attention was held captive by the great illustrations and story. The teacher read about 3-4 chapters at a time. I was amazed the kids held still for so long - an attest to a good book! I will be purchasing this book for my 4 year old.

PURCHASED THIS BOOK FOR MY GRANDSONS, AGES 7 AND 10. THE 7 YEAR OLD READ IT IN ONE HOUR. HE REALLY ENJOYED THIS BOOK. IN A NUTSHELL IT TELLS OF ONE'S STRUGGLES IN LIFE IN ORDER TO MAKE IT TO THE CELESTIAL CITY - HEAVEN.

I received the book in mint condition and in less than a 1 week of initial purchase.