I came across ​Jordan Raynor​ years ago through a plan on the Bible app titled “How God’s Word Shaped C.S. Lewis’s Work.” I’ve been following him ever since. He defends the sacredness of secular work and also writes on topics like time management, mastering one craft, and Christians who glorify God through their work.

He’s written two children’s books. The Creator in You explains that we were created by God to be creative. It helps kids, teens, and parents see that “the sixth day” wasn’t the end of creation, but merely the beginning. The Royal in You tackles the mysterious topic of heaven to help kids (and grownups) view heaven with biblical clarity, excitement, and hope—rather than confusion, boredom, and fear.

I preordered The Royal in You in 2024 and received an autographed bookplate for my boys from Jordan. Take note, authors! That’s a good idea.

I recently read both books to my six-year-old while he was sick. I could tell they resonated with him in a comforting way. That’s what led me to write these reviews.

The Creator in You

A wonderful, meaningful book for kids and parents alike, about how God created us to be creative like Him. The first half reimagines the creation story. “God created the world in a matter of days, a world for exploring, for work, and for play.”

The second half points out things “God asked us to create” like “bridges and baseballs,” then challenges readers to brainstorm what they can make. “So grab a blank sheet of paper and create with your hands or draw up some plans for a lemonade stand. . . . Create new businesses, movies, medicine, and hope. Make laws or computers or a new telescope.” He covers the gamut.

In the end, the author explains that when we work or make something new, we are doing what God made us to do. We’re demonstrating to those around us what our Father is like—“a God who creates to bring people delight.” Likewise, “you bring joy to the world” (and to Him) through your work and art.

Lovely and inspiring. Good length. My boys are six and eight. I highly recommend!

The Royal in You

I appreciate Jordan’s why behind this book—to help kids know and understand what God’s Word says about heaven, to dispel confusion, boredom, or fear about the topic. A sequel to The Creator in You, the poetry and pictures in this book about the day King Jesus descends and brings heaven to earth are equally mesmerizing. “When heaven comes down, we’ll all rush to meet Jesus, bringing paintings, inventions, and gifts for Him with us.” It’s all very moving, from hugging long-lost loved ones to the majesty and beauty of “God’s epic new world.”

But like The Creator in You, there’s a second half. “And now you might think that our story is ending, but in fact, this is just the beginning. Because Jesus wants you to rule with Him—to explore and fill the kingdom of heaven with Him. . . . God says He won’t rule this world all on His own—He’ll send princes and princesses out from His throne.”

How might we rule with him in the new world? What will we do? The author and illustrator throw out some reasonable and fun ideas, offering us a glimpse of what we’ve ultimately been created for—eternal life with our Creator on New Earth (Isaiah 65:17–22; Rev. 22:5).

The Spirit in You

Jordan plans to publish a third book for kids this year titled The Spirit in You.

Purchase

The Creator in You By Jordan Raynor / WaterBrook The Creator in You by Jordan Raynor, with engaging rhymes and vibrant illustrations, readers are given a new way to envision the story of creation. When God made people on the 6th day, he made them to do what he does by filling the world with marvelous things, from sand castles and s’mores to books and businesses. Hardcover, 40 pages. Ages 3 to 7 years old

The Royal in You By Jordan Raynor / WaterBrook “The Royal in You” by Jordan Raynor is a fun, colorful story that helps kids understand how special they are to God. Filled with playful rhymes and beautiful illustrations, this book brings God’s promises to life in a way that’s easy for young ones to relate to. It’s a great way to share hope, joy, and faith with your kids, all while showing them how loved they truly are. 48 pages. Recommended for ages 4-8. Hardcover, from WaterBrook.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links—at no extra cost to you. Please read Terms & Conditions for more information.

Subscribe

Subscribe to Legacy Passion Projects here.