What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently highlight the curriculum's decision to prioritize the life of Jesus as an accessible foundation for young learners. Cathy Duffy Reviews notes that author Peter Enns focuses on the New Testament first because these stories are often easiest for children to grasp. Not My Turn supports this scholarly approach, arguing that establishing a Christ-centered focus early creates a framework for adding biblical details later. Both Goodreads and Cathy Duffy Reviews observe that the content successfully avoids narrow sectarian agendas. Some trade-offs are noted by Book Scrounger, which describes the program as less visually flashy than other options while praising its manageable lesson lengths and parent background sections. From a more analytical perspective, The Aquila Report questions the curriculum's departure from traditional chronological Bible teaching. Overall, the series is recognized for being informative and supportive of early spiritual development.

How It Works

A typical week involves one primary lesson, usually taught over one or two days. The parent begins by reading a short chapter from the Instructor Text, which includes background information to help the parent explain the context of the Bible story. The child listens to the story and discusses it with the parent using provided prompts. Afterward, the child completes a project from the Student Activity Book, such as a coloring page, a craft, or a simple game, to reinforce the lesson. Most lessons take approximately 20–30 minutes to complete.

Switching to This?

There is no placement test for this curriculum, as it is designed to be started at Year 1 (Grade 1). However, because the curriculum is self-paced and multi-level, families with students in grades 1–4 can easily start together at Year 1 to establish the foundational "Jesus-first" framework. Families switching from a chronological program like *Veritas Press Bible* should be prepared for a significant shift in focus, moving from Old Testament history to a deep dive into the Gospels.

Curriculum Details

Price

$16 - $52

Ecumenical Christian Bible curriculum (grades 1–4). Instructor text ~$22–$24; student activity book ~$27–$29; complete sets ~$44–$52.

Grades

1 - 4

Available As

Print Digital

Coverage

Single subject

Subjects

Art History/Social Studies

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Pacing

Self-paced

Parent Time

30-60 min/day

Student Independence

Needs instruction

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Academic Level

Grade level

Worldview

Christian

Teach Multiple Ages

Yes

Engaging for Reluctant Learners

Yes

Parent Role:

The parent acts as the primary instructor and storyteller, reading the provided background text and guiding the child through hands-on activities or crafts.

Reviews We Consulted

Updated: July 2026 by Claude (v2 research)

How This Compares

Grapevine Studies: Uses stick-figure drawing to teach chronological Bible history, whereas *Telling God’s Story* uses parent-led readings and traditional crafts. - The Story of the Bible (TAN Books): Focuses on a narrative, Catholic-centric history, while *Telling God’s Story* maintains a more ecumenical, Protestant-friendly tone. - Veritas Press Bible: Follows a strict chronological timeline with a heavy emphasis on memorization, contrasting with Peter Enns' pedagogical focus on the New Testament first. - The Mystery of History: Integrates Bible history into a global chronological timeline, while *Telling God’s Story* keeps the focus specifically on the life of Jesus for the early years.

Getting Started