I always get excited when I discover an LDS-themed children’s picture book that I can enjoy with my children, that teaches important gospel principles and yet is presented in a way they find entertaining. I was so pleased to learn about “Who’s Who in the Book of Mormon” by new author/illustrator Brad Ballard.
As we open the book, we first note the cute illustrations. They aren’t elaborate, but they’re effective and well-done. I especially liked the sheep, which look like kernels of popcorn with legs.
Each page contains a full-length flap which is folded out to reveal more of the story, which begins with Lehi. We are asked, “I took my family away from Jerusalem and led them to the Promised Land. Who am I?” The illustrations show a white-bearded man with a tent, children, and animals. When we pull back the flap, we read the answer, “Lehi.”
Now here’s where the book really captured my interest. We not only get the answer to the question, but then we read a synopsis of Lehi’s life. “I was a great prophet of the Lord and had a wonderful vision of the tree of life.” We’re then given a scripture reference where we can learn more about Lehi (1 Nephi 1-3) so that older children can follow along and learn more about Lehi. Then we’re treated to a game, where we’re shown five pictures and asked to find those items in the large picture. While the older children are reading the scripture reference, the younger children can look for those items in the picture. The book is applicable to many different age ranges.
Other persons mentioned in the book are Nephi, Laman and Lemuel, Alma the Younger, Ammon, the Stripling Warriors, Jesus Christ, the Brother of Jared, and Moroni. But my favorite page is the last one. The question is asked, “I can read the Book of Mormon and know that it is true. Who am I?” The answer comes, “Me!” The children who read this book are given a way to liken themselves with the people in the book and become a part of the story themselves.
I really loved the format of this book, the way it’s geared toward children of all ages, and the way it ties the children into the story. I even like its size – perfect to slip in to a diaper bag or church quiet bag. This book is destined to become an LDS classic for children.
(This book was published in 2008 by Cedar Fort.)
Related Blogs:
The Littlest Nephite – Nephi and the Plates of Brass
Family Home Evening Game: the Liahona and the Holy Ghost
All Things According to His Will