The Illustrated Catechism for Boys and Girls

I am a firm supporter of Paul Cox's Reftoons ministry. I love Erroll Hulse of beloved memory and his children's catechism. It is great to see Erroll's children's catechism delightfully illustrated for children by Paul. I am enthusiastic about teaching children theology. That is why I am excited to see this illustrated presentation of the children's catechism. Let children not only hear and say but see the great truths which they need to give them a foundation for life.

The Illustrated Catechism for Boys and Girls is a powerful combination of truth and beauty. I have known and used the text of the catechism for over thirty years. It always elicited a round of cheers in our family worship when the latest child in our family stammered out for the first time, “God made me.” Paul Cox, the illustrator, knows how to create pictures that are attractive, clever, and thought-provoking. Some of the illustrations are humorous (see, for example, numbers 50, 63, 92, and especially 122!). Some are downright brilliant (see numbers 54 and 113). Most illustrations will readily lead to further discussion with children (see numbers 38 and 41). I look forward to making this book a part of my relationship with my grandchildren. Now, if someone would just set it to music!

The illustrations are thoughtful as well as engaging. They give a tool for explanation and visual reinforcement of the words. I memorized this catechism along with my children and the experience for all of us would have been given an extra measure of insight and recall had I had access to such an excellent presentation of doctrinal instruction.

I’ve been using the Truth and Grace Memory Books in my home during family worship and in the context of our local church for years. It’s an excellent resource that masterfully aids a child’s understanding of the themes of Scripture and the gospel of God. This new and beautifully illustrated edition of Volume 1 makes the catechism even more accessible and engaging for young ones. I highly commend The Illustrated Catechism for Boys and Girls to parents, grandparents, and pastors as they seek to faithfully nurture children in the gospel.

We have used this catechism to help lay a solid biblical foundation for our children. The answers are short and simple, making it easy for young children (and parents alike!) to understand and memorize. The colorful illustrations are a welcome aid to parents, grandparents, and other teachers, in keeping the attention of little ones. We are thrilled to recommend this catechism and pray you gain as much from it as we have.

We’ve used this catechism with our kids and found it richly fruitful in nurturing their understanding of the faith. Cox’s illustrations do a remarkable job of simplifying big ideas, making them accessible and engaging for young minds. Highly recommend!