Common English Bible, 2012, 1,472 pp., $26.99

The Deep Blue Kids Bible is in the Common English Translation, which often is used for children’s Bibles. It’s colorful, easy to read and very kid-friendly without being childish. This Bible is geared primarily for children ages 8 to 12; after reviewing it, I would say this age range is accurate, although it would be most helpful to children ages 7 to 11, depending on their reading level. This Bible includes devotions, cool facts, memory verse suggestions, key faith concepts, challenges for the readers based on Scripture verses, key points and themes, as well as key biblical traits and other helpful information for children.

It is very attractive and offers great introductions to each book of the Bible. While the translation often is used for children’s Bibles, it is not as helpful, approachable, readable, accurate or child-friendly as other translations. The simplicity of the tools in this Bible is particularly helpful, especially for children, parents and families. It could be a good Bible to give to children in third through fifth grades if that is a part of your church’s tradition or practice. This Bible could be used in Sunday School classes, although the translation may be a challenge for some of the children in the younger age range.

This is a solid Bible with solid tools worth having in your library. It best would be used by families with children age 12 and younger for family devotionals, reading and discussion. There are some great tools and information pieces in this Bible that would create great family conversation at the dinner table, in the car or as a part of a family devotional time. The tools included in this Bible could help parents talk about Scripture with their children and give them the confidence and tools to discuss God’s Word as a family.