God is my Father who made everything. And I am a little explorer of the wide world. 

From its very first lines, Near, a children’s reflection on Psalm 139 from Sally Lloyd-Jones and Jago. You might know Lloyd-Jones and Jago best from The Jesus Storybook Bible, which has sold over two million copies. Both are in signature form, using their respective artistic giftings to create an immersive, emotional experience that captures the heart of God’s nearness to us. 

 

The opening panel, which includes the quote I opened this review with, shows a vast expanse of mountains, fields, and streams, on the left, three children (and their cats!) look over the world from a red and orange hot air balloon. It’s a sweeping introduction to a beautifully illustrated and perfectly written story. 

 

From the mountains to the cities to space, Near teaches young kids of God’s comforting omnipresence. Whenever you go, no matter where, God is near. What captured my attention at first was the book’s cover. My son loves all modes of transportation and spaceships are at the top of a lengthy list. But inside, you’ve got trains and balloons and racecars; you’ve got sandy deserts and snowy landscapes; you’ve got jungles and cities; you’re taken high above the earth and deep underwater. It’s a captivating exploration of creation that ends with a return to home and a quiet readiness for bed. 

 

The final panel envisions the three children (and their cats!) all having finished their day of exploration and returning home for a good night’s sleep—along with the assurance that, here too, God is present and he loves us. 

 

Near is colorful and captivating. I love reading it. My kids love looking at it. It’s become an immediate classic in my house. I think it will be in yours as well.