Review - The Velveteen Bible

The Velveteen Bible has one of the cutest covers I think I've seen - an adorable cuddly bunny with a velvet furry feel. And it comes in a special box ('keepsake treasure box') that matches the cover and is also cute and furry. Published by "Tommy Nelson" (the children's division of Thomas Nelson Publishers), it's described as an 'extra special gift for baptisms, christenings, baby dedications, birthdays or any gift-giving occasion in your little one's life." That's a pretty apt description. Unfortunately I don't see it as one that would get as much actual use as other Bibles.

The cover and high cuteness factor really suggested something very visual that young children will want to look at. But there are only about 11 illustrations throughout the book that covers almost 1100 pages!? The print is tiny (somewhat necessary given the compact size of the book), and it uses the New King James Version (NKJV). That's a solid translation, but not the most kid-friendly. Most children old enough to actually read this comfortably would prefer a Bible storybook or a younger translation.

So I'll agree with the marketing copy - not a bad choice as a gift - but for frequent reading I can't give a big recommendation for the otherwise cute Velveteen Bible.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers for this review as part of their Book Sneeze Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising".