10+ Best Christian Books for 9-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for Christian books for 9-year-olds that are both engaging and uplifting? Finding the right books that resonate with this age group, while also imparting valuable lessons, can be a real game-changer for their personal growth and understanding. Whether you're a parent, guardian, or educator, you've come to the right place. Keep reading to discover various lists of Christian books perfectly suited for 9-year-olds that will captivate their minds and nourish their spirits.

Fun Christian Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
  • Illustrator: Pauline Baynes
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Christian Fiction
  • Synopsis: Four siblings stumble upon a magical wardrobe that transports them to the land of Narnia, where they join the mystical lion Aslan in a battle against the evil White Witch.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating adventure that introduces themes of bravery, redemption, and faith in a way that's accessible and engaging for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love fantasy and magical adventures.

• The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale by Angela Elwell Hunt
  • Illustrator: Tim Jonke
  • Genre(s): Folklore, Christian
  • Synopsis: This folktale tells the story of three trees on a mountain, each with hopes for their future, which are fulfilled in an unexpected way that intertwines with the life of Jesus.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a poignant and simple narrative that helps children understand the power of God's plan and the importance of faith.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories with moral lessons and spiritual depth.

• The Princess and the Kiss: A Story of God's Gift of Purity by Jennie Bishop
  • Illustrator: Preston McDaniels
  • Genre(s): Fairy Tale, Christian
  • Synopsis: A young princess is given a precious gift from God — her first kiss — and she must decide when and with whom she should share this treasured gift.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully illustrated tale that introduces the concept of purity and the value of waiting for the right person in a way that's understandable and appealing to children.
  • Perfect for: Young girls and any child learning about personal values and the significance of emotional gifts.

• The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule by Stan and Jan Berenstain
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Christian
  • Synopsis: Sister Bear receives a golden locket with the Golden Rule and tries to understand what it means. She learns the importance of treating others how she would like to be treated.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses familiar characters to teach a fundamental Christian principle in a simple, relatable way.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fans of the Berenstain Bears and need a fun way to learn about empathy and kindness.

• Hermie: A Common Caterpillar by Max Lucado
  • Illustrator: Justine Fontes
  • Genre(s): Christian, Children’s Fiction
  • Synopsis: Hermie, a common caterpillar, feels insignificant but learns that God has a special plan for him just as he has for everyone.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an encouraging story that helps kids understand their unique value and God’s love for them, regardless of how ordinary they feel.
  • Perfect for: Children who are struggling with self-esteem and need reassurance of their worth in God's eyes.

Educational Christian Books for 9-Year-Olds

• God's Wisdom for Little Boys: Character-Building Fun from Proverbs by Jim George and Elizabeth George
  • Illustrator: Judy Luenebrink
  • Genre(s): Christian, Educational, Character Development
  • Synopsis: This book provides a series of poems and teachings inspired by the Book of Proverbs, aimed to guide young boys in developing virtues like honesty, kindness, and respect.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Moral development, understanding of biblical proverbs, character building
  • Why we recommend this book: It translates the complex messages of Proverbs into accessible, engaging content for children, complete with charming illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Young boys who are starting to learn about virtues and character.

• God's Wisdom for Little Girls: Virtues and Fun from Proverbs 31 by Elizabeth George
  • Illustrator: Judy Luenebrink
  • Genre(s): Christian, Educational, Character Development
  • Synopsis: This book distills the virtues found in Proverbs 31 into simple, engaging lessons for young girls, teaching them about kindness, helpfulness, and God’s love.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Ethical development, religious education, understanding of Proverbs 31
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gentle introduction to the teachings of the Bible with a focus on virtues important for young girls.
  • Perfect for: Little girls learning about how to live out biblical virtues in everyday life.

• If Jesus Lived Inside My Heart by Jill Roman Lord
  • Illustrator: Amy Wummer
  • Genre(s): Christian, Spiritual Growth, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: A rhyming story that explores the idea of Jesus living inside a child's heart, guiding them to spread love and kindness to others.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, spiritual development, understanding of Christian teachings
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses simple rhymes and beautiful illustrations to convey deep spiritual truths in a way that resonates with young children.
  • Perfect for: Children exploring their faith and how it applies to their interaction with the world.

• The Beginner's Bible: Timeless Children’s Stories by Zondervan
  • Illustrator: Kelly Pulley
  • Genre(s): Bible Stories, Christian
  • Synopsis: This book is a collection of well-known biblical tales, retold in a simple and clear manner for young readers, from Genesis to Revelation.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Biblical knowledge, storytelling, foundational religious education
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a perfect introduction to the Bible, with engaging illustrations and stories that are tailored to young children's understanding.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are new to Bible stories and need a captivating and straightforward presentation.

• The Donkey Who Carried a King by R.C. Sproul
  • Illustrator: Chuck Groenink
  • Genre(s): Christian, Picture Book, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story centers around Davey, the donkey chosen to carry Jesus into Jerusalem, exploring themes of service and the importance of Jesus' journey.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical context of biblical events, themes of service and humility
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on a biblical story, teaching children about humility and the significance of serving others.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in the stories of the Bible and learning about the values of humility and service.

Challenging Christian Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Weight of a Mass: A Tale of Faith by Josephine Nobisso
  • Illustrator: Katalin Szegedi
  • Genre(s): Christian, Picture Book, Fairy Tale
  • Synopsis: When a poor widow begs for a scrap of bread from a baker, she promises to weigh the bread against the weight of a mass. The story unfolds with a miraculous outcome illustrating the power of faith.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative intertwines complex themes of faith and miracles with a fairy tale format, challenging young readers to think deeply about the spiritual implications.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates the concept of faith in a tangible way that resonates with young readers, encouraging them to consider the impact of faith in their own lives.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fairy tales with deep moral and spiritual lessons.

• Saint George and the Dragon by Margaret Hodges
  • Illustrator: Trina Schart Hyman
  • Genre(s): Legend, Christian, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book retells the legend of Saint George, who slays a dragon to save a princess and a town plagued by the beast. The story is a classic tale of bravery and faith.
  • Why this book is challenging: The medieval language and complex narrative structure provide a rich, yet challenging reading experience for advanced young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure that also imparts lessons about courage, faith, and the triumph of good over evil.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous young readers interested in legends and heroic tales.

• The Squire and the Scroll by Jennie Bishop
  • Illustrator: Preston McDaniels
  • Genre(s): Christian, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This tale follows a young squire who must protect a lantern of pure light on a perilous journey. The story teaches valuable lessons based on biblical principles.
  • Why this book is challenging: The allegorical content and medieval setting demand a higher level of comprehension and interpretation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines an exciting storyline with strong moral teachings, encouraging integrity and purity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories of knights and quests, while also learning important life lessons.

• Amon's Adventure: A Family Story for Easter by Arnold Ytreeide
  • Genre(s): Christian, Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Set in the time of Jesus, this book follows a young boy named Amon as he embarks on a thrilling adventure during the Easter season. The story includes elements of danger, betrayal, and redemption.
  • Why this book is challenging: The historical context and complex plot involving multiple characters and viewpoints provide a rich, layered reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a captivating way to learn about the history and significance of Easter, making it more than just a story—it's an experience.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy historical adventures and are interested in learning more about the significance of Easter in a dramatic, engaging context.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! Are you looking for ways to help your 9-year-old develop good reading habits while exploring Christian books? Here are some fun and effective exercises that can make reading a more engaging and enriching experience for them. These activities are designed to enhance understanding and encourage a deeper connection with what they read.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Establish a specific number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and helps in achieving a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them as your child becomes more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a special area in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and creates a comfortable environment that can enhance concentration.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions, lights, or decorations.

• Discuss the Stories
  • What it is: Have regular discussions about the books your child is reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and allows your child to express thoughts and feelings about the story.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions that encourage your child to think deeply about the themes and characters.

• Reading Buddy System
  • What it is: Pair your child with a friend or a family member who reads the same book.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading process more fun and interactive, and provides an opportunity for social learning.
  • Tips: Schedule regular meet-ups or calls for them to discuss the book.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Encourage your child to draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Boosts creativity and helps children remember details of the story.
  • Tips: Provide a variety of art supplies and let their imagination guide them.

• Book-Related Activities
  • What it is: Create activities that relate to the theme or setting of the book.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding and makes the connection between the book and the real world.
  • Tips: You could organize a visit to a museum, a church, or historical sites if it relates to the book’s content.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

Incorporating these exercises into your child’s reading routine can significantly enhance their engagement and enjoyment of Christian books. Not only will they develop stronger reading skills, but they'll also gain valuable life lessons along the way. Happy reading!