The Big Book of Bible Stories To Make

Gr 2–5—Selecting stories from the Old and New Testaments, this title contains 48 crafts that each begin with a brief reference to its corresponding biblical tale before launching into instruction. Multistep illustrated directions are paired with photographs of the completed projects. There is a mix of model-size crafts, including "Garden of Eden" and "Jesus, our friend," and full-size accessories, such as "David's slingshot." Most are made from recyclable items, such as milk jugs, juice cartons, cardboard canisters, and yogurt cups. But the text is not always kid-friendly: "Cut out two pieces of cardstock. The top edges will need to wrap around three sides of the cartons. Make the bottom edges slightly wider. Paint as shown." And painting recyclables with shiny or repellent coatings may be frustrating for younger children. Though Hayes mentions parental assistance twice, readers will most likely need adult oversight throughout to fill in gaps in the instructional sequence. Those looking for strong Bible connections or memory verse tie-ins will be disappointed. For instance, less cheerful parts of Noah's story, such as God's displeasure with man, are glossed over in favor of presenting several fun animal pairs.