The Media-Wise Family Book

Reformed theologian R.C. Sproul is the chairman of Ligonier Ministries and the host of the Christian radio program Renewing Your Mind. He has written many theological works, and this is his first book for children. In this story, a young boy seeks an audience with his king to ask two important question: Where do shadows come from, and where do they go when they leave? This provokes the king to try to rid himself of his shadow, and in his search for knowledge he discovers a deeper wisdom than simply the way light and darkness relate: he learns that sin is a shadow on the human soul, that every soul is shadowed, but that there is one King who has no shadow because He is perfectly holy. The king joyfully tells the young boy this truth, sending him on a quest to find this King himself.

The story is beautifully illustrated with paintings of a king who bears a striking resemblance to Dr. Sproul himself, and the young boy with his friends closely resemble the grandchildren pictured on the flyleaf of the book. It is a rare pleasure to find such a deeply-developed Christian lesson, crafted carefully and lovingly for the third generation. Although it doesn't have the dramatic action of The Squire and the Scroll or The Prince's Poison Cup, it does provide a gently reflective meditation on God's character, with enough of a story to provide a satisfying reading experience.

It is probably best suited to an older elementary audience, and could make an especially enjoyable family devotional reading.