This book was okay. I enjoyed the Spanish translation as well as the English text.

However, be aware that some of the theology does not match up with all Christian denominations. Yes, the idea that God sent his Son to atone for our sins is still the same, but some of the reasoning and "conversations" between God and Christ is different than what some denominations are taught. Some people may not be bothered by it, but it is something to be aware of!

The pictures in kindle format were so small that we could not see them well at all unfortunately.

This is an illustrated children’s book of about Jesus. It is written in both English and Spanish. I got an electronic review copy through Net Galley.
I appreciated the idea of a children’s book that is written both in Spanish and English even though I am not Spanish or Hispanic. I also appreciated the author’s idea of focusing on Christ and His journey to make it possible for people to enter into His eternal kingdom
With that said I was concerned with the book’s illustration of God the Father as a man with blue beard and blue hair. It is important that we don’t represent God the Father appearing as a human being. Also I thought the book’s illustration was not as well done and appear quite amateur. I felt it was kind of strange. I am cautious with this book.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by First Edition Design Publishing and Net Galley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

It's a rather beautiful bi-lingual book that would be perfect in my classroom for the future. It's writing seems to be either side of some lovely illustrations that compliment the story perfectly.

I appreciated the Spanish translation, but I wasn’t a fan of the illustrations or the story itself.

The King Who Left His Kingdom
El Rey Que Dejó Su Reino

written by Deanna Altman
illustrated by Lisa Mueller

The publisher provides this summary of The King Who Left His Kingdom: “This book is provided in English and Spanish under one cover. A story of love given by Jesus as he leaves his kingdom of light to show the way to people who are in darkness. A magnificent, simple and clear way to show children the real sacrifice God made by sending his son. This evangelistic tool can be used to show the gospel to children in a very simple, yet beautiful way making a contrast between God's kingdom of light, and the darkness in our world.”

With this intent of the book in mind, I must say that it fell short of the mark. I really wanted to like it, but young children are very literal and I don’t think they would understand the symbolism provided by this book. It is more of an allegory than children of the intended ages can handle. For example, Jesus speaks of His Father’s kingdom and the people want to go there. Jesus tells them “ ‘No, you cannot go there without someone making a way. The darkness blocks your way. There is only one way; I must make a bridge,’ the Son-king said. He walked to Jerusalem and paid a price. He made a path with blood; with wood and nails he paved the way to make a bridge for His friends.” The illustration shows people walking across a chasm on a bridge (perhaps sprinkled with blood?) in the shape of a cross. As an adult and a Christian, I understand what the author is saying. This is an old evangelical depiction of sin separating us from God and the cross bridging the gap, but I wouldn’t have understood this when I was a child. I’m not sure there is even enough there for an unchurched adult to understand the sacrifice Jesus made to save people from their sins.

I think it is commendable to have the book in both English and Spanish, but no credit is given to the translator. Even if the author is the translator, that should have been noted. I appreciate author Deanna Altman’s efforts to share God’s incredible gift, but it is not something I would share with children ages 5-8 or grades K-3 as recommended.

I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to First Edition Design Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Rating: 2/5

Category: Children’s Nonfiction, Christian

Notes: Publisher’s Recommended Age Range: 5-8
Publisher’s Recommended Grade Level: K-3

Publication: April 3, 2018—First Edition Design Publishing