Arlo Takes Off

TGC Picture Book Helps Kids Embrace the Way God Made Them

When Arlo's favorite TV show tells him he can be anything he wants to be, he decides he wants to be like a bird and fly! When both he and his high hopes hit the ground, Arlo learns a painful lesson. His parents help him understand that, no matter what others may tell us, we can only be who God made us to be. In a world that promises endless possibilities, it's easy for little ones to feel discouraged when things don't go as they imagined. But by learning how God uniquely created each of us--with our bodies, abilities, and limitations--we discover a more joyful way to live.

Written for children ages 3-7, this engaging picture book helps kids resist the message of expressive individualism that their feelings define who they are. At the end of the book, a special section for parents provides advice for helping kids navigate disappointments and embrace the joy of God's perfect plan.

• Written for Kids Ages 3-7: Accessible story accompanied by colorful illustrations to keep kids engaged
• Teaches Kids an Important Life Lesson: Without directly addressing gender, this story addresses bodily limitations and teaches kids that stepping outside of God's design only leads to harm
• Practical Approach for Parents and Guardians: A "Note to Grownups" provides advice for helping kids embrace who God made them to be, handle disappointment, and live within the boundaries of his design
• TGC Kids Series: Teaches kids biblical truths while engaging their hearts and imaginations

Betsy Childs Howard (MA, Beeson Divinity School) is an editor for the Gospel Coalition. She is the author of Arlo and the Great Big Cover-Up and Polly and the Screen Time Overload. Betsy and her husband, Bernard, live with their two little boys in Birmingham, Alabama.

Samara Hardy is a freelance illustrator and designer who creates artwork for greeting cards, stationery, housewares, children's books, and more. She has worked with clients across the globe, such as Hallmark, Trader Joe's, Oxford University Press, and American Greetings.