"My First Story of Easter" by Tim Dowley

"My First Story of Easter" by Tim Dowley is my favourite first Easter book for little ones from the palm branch praises to his ascension. It doesn't give too much information but then again it gives plenty of interesting information for a very little one who is hearing the story afresh after a while and has forgotten much or for a brand new listener. (It is easy enough to add more to the story as you go along if you have a big kid listening in.) The pictures are sensitive to a little one’s viewing and there is not an overly gruesome portrayal of death, no blood. (I like that for my tiny ones, the full impact of Jesus horrible death can come later)

It explains terms like disciples being Jesus friends as you go along in a natural way as part of the story. My three year old keeps asking why they put prickles (thorns) or bindies (Australian thorns) on Jesus head, being very worried that Jesus head was made to bleed and be sore. He cannot understand why they hurt Jesus whom we love. The bigger children were asking why they praised Jesus and so soon turned against Him, calling for his death.

It has sparked a new interest in this timeless true story and it is refreshing to see it through the eyes of a child again. Certainly a beautiful way to tell the old, old story of Jesus and His love again!