I recently received three PDF flip-books from Kayla Jarmon to review. Two of these books are part of her discussion series, covering topics that are important to discuss with children. The other was a more light-hearted read, about the relationship between a boy and his dog.
Books in the Discussion Series
There are currently two books in Kayla Jarmon’s Discussion Book series, though she has plans to release more. These books are meant to spark important discussions between parent and child, talking about topics such as death, and new babies.
These books are family friendly. Each book includes scripture references, and one has discussion questions for each chapter.
Don’t Forget Me
There are 69 pages in this picture book, but with only a couple of sentences on most pages, it’s a very quick read. There are colorful illustrations throughout.
This book features an imaginary conversation between a child in the womb and God. The illustrations walk through the baby growing in the womb, delivery, and joining the mom and dad in the hospital.
As the baby develops, the conversation with God continues. He reminds the baby that He’s always here, and to not forget him.
This book offers insight into a new baby, without any of the “how did the baby get there” conversation. It helps children see that children are a gift from God, and meant to be part of the family.
At the end are scripture references so you can do a Bible study about the sanctity of life with your children, and continue the discussion about God always being with us.
I read this book with my 6-, 8-, and 9-year olds, and found it appropriate for that age group. They enjoyed seeing the baby grow in the womb throughout the book, and it piggybacked on some of the other discussions and material we’ve used on this topic.
Dying Is Part of This World
There are 57 pages in this short chapter book. Each of the seven chapters ends with discussion questions for further study, and scripture references.
This book is a good introduction to death, and helps guide the discussion based on questions many children have about dying and death. It’s written in a conversational style, between a mother and her daughter.
I love that it’s written from a Christian perspective, and really focuses on the importance of accepting Christ as your savior BEFORE you die. Once you’re dead, there’s no going back and you will spend an eternity in the lake of fire.
It also talks about the importance of witnessing, and praying for the lost.
A Boy and His Dog
The third book I reviewed is not part of the Discussion Series. Instead, it’s a stand alone story style picture book.
I’d say it’s written at about an early second grade reading level, and is appropriate for kids to read on their own. I had one of my readers read it, and she enjoyed the story.
The book looks at the relationship between a boy and his pet dog. They share many adventures together.
The illustrations are cute and engaging, helping early readers by providing picture clues.
This was my favorite of the three books, just because it was so cute! (And I really like dogs!)
My Thoughts on These Books by Kayla Jarmon
I enjoyed all three books by Kayla Jarmon. They are available in paperback, which I think would be a lot easier to use as a family than the PDF flip-book style. It’s not as much fun gathering around the computer to read something compared to snuggling on the couch with an actual book.
The content of the discussion books was appropriate for children, and really did provide opportunities to further the discussion about birth and death. Those are two certainties we will all face!
I’d recommend these books to Christian families who are looking to start (or continue) conversations about these important topics. And the Boy and His Dog book would be a good one for any child who enjoys dogs to read.
To see what other families thought of these books, please click on the banner below.
