Five Fabulous Creation Retellings (Biblical)

Creation

Cynthia Rylant

Pulling verses from the first two chapters of Genesis, Rylant illustrates the days of creation.  The information has been condensed down, but it sticks close to the biblical text. 

The Creation

James Weldon Johnson, author

James E. Ransome, illustrator

Written as a poetic sermon, the influence of folk sayings and antebellum south imagery is present in the text.  Pictures of the creation are interspersed with children sitting around listening as a storyteller recites this poem. The text  takes a few liberties, but embodies the essence and meaning or the biblical story.  The rich poetic language and stunning illustrations make this selection timeless. 

The Creation Story

Brenda C. Ward

In this adorable board book version, the text is simplified.  Each illustration has a baby dressed up in a costume (sun, moon, animals) to reflect the text.  The book is out of print (unfortunately), but available in many libraries and from private sellers. 

Creation: My Father Loves Me

J.D. Wise, author

Don Day, Kelly Pulley, and Paul Trice, illustrators

A father tells his son the story of creation and the fall as they sit around the fire.  The African terrain, vibrant colors, dynamic illustrations, and poetic verse work together to not only retell the biblical story but emphasize the father’s love (both earthly and heavenly).

Let There Be Light

Archbishop Desmond Tutu, author

Nancy Tillman, illustrator

A combination of the literal text with some poetic elements, for added imagery and appeal, make this my favorite picture book on the list. Tillman’s rich illustrations are stunning compliment to the text!

Related Books

When God Made Light

Matthew Paul Turner, author

David Catrow, illustrator

God’s light—both physical and spiritual—is celebrate.  The poetic verses spill over with gratitude for God’s creation and many blessings that come from the light he has created. The conclusion ends with a call to action to “shimmer and shine,/be a beacon so bright,/ cause when God made you, child, God made light.” 

First Light, First Life: A Worldwide Creation Story

Paul Fleischman, author

Julie Paschkis, illustrator
The universal creation and flood stories are retold using elements from versions all over the world. Paschkis gorgeous illustrations and the fascinating comparative elements make this a worthwhile selection.