Lately, I’ve been reminiscing about one of the most beloved passages in the Bible, Psalm 23. The verses reassure us that God protects and cares for us. I wondered what children’s books based on this Psalm were out there . Here are a few of my favorites.

Psalm 23 by Zondervan and illustrated by Richard Jesse Watson.

The wording comes straight out of the King James Version (which may require some explaining to younger readers) but the pictures are realistic, bold, and flowing with vibrant colors, making this a beautiful rendition of the Psalm.

God Takes Care of Me: Psalm 23 by Dandi Daley Mackall and illustrated by Cee Biscoe. Mackall rewrote this Psalm in kid-friendly rhyming verses that hint at the original text. For example, instead of saying “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death…”, it says, “In valleys low or mountains steep…” Still, the book, well suited for kids ages 2-5, captures the idea of how much God loves us.

Found: Psalm 23 by Sally Lloyd-Jones and illustrated by Jago.

Even though this book came out in 2017, the illustrations give it an ageless feel. The author simplified the Psalm, writing it in her own kid-friendly words, but the pictures harken back to Biblical times with a shepherd watching his flock. The words and text form a delightful combination appreciated by readers, as reflected by the book sales exceeding 100,000 copies.

Home Is Right Where You Are: Inspired by Psalm 23 by Ruth Chou Simons.

This book released in 2024, and although it strays the farthest from the actual wording of the Psalm, the stunning watercolor illustrations and heart-felt underlying message still brings that same sense of comfort and security of Psalm 23. (To be fair, the author includes a page with the entire Psalm.) To me, the illustrations would appeal best to children ages 8-12, but the text is simple enough for younger kids ages 4-8. With that in mind, it might be a good fit for your Hi-Lo readers.

The Lord Is My Shepherd: Elton the Sheepdog Reads Psalm 23 by Jay and Kristi Smith

Also released in 2024, this book keeps to the original KJV text, but the reader is lead through it by an adorable Sheepdog. Although the verses might need some explanation, kids who love dogs will immediately be drawn to the book. (Best geared for kids ages 2-5.)

I hope you enjoy revisiting this Psalm in a fresh new way! And be  sure to sign up to receive updates of each new post on our Christian Children’s Authors blog. Follow us for new book news, free resources, parenting tips, and encouragement!

Lori Z. Scott

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