The more R.C. Sproul I read, the more fascinated I become not only with his theologically geared mind, but also with his ability to adapt that theology allegorically and in the simplest forms that even children can understand. The Lightlings, Sproul’s first book published with fantasy illustrator Justin Gerard, is an allegory of redemption depicted through the story of a group of tiny people called Lightlings.
The Lightlings had been created by “The King without a Shadow,” but one day they collectively chose to disobey Him without thought of the consequences. As a result, they were tossed into a forest of shadows and darkness with very little hope of ever regaining the light. After time, a mysterious new light begins shining far off in the distance at the edge of the forest, and everything in forest of shadows begins to change.
While Sproul’s allegories can be simply interpreted by adults who understand the many doctrines of Scripture, the stories themselves remain fascinating adventures for the younger audience for whom they’re intended. Sproul also offers at the back of Lightlings a discussion guide for parents to talk through with their children, so whether your child has reached an age of understanding the issues of sin and redemption or not, The Lightlings can be a fantastic first step in guiding them towards the Truth. God, His Son, and their love for the fallen human race are all here hidden inside a beautiful story.
For more books like this, check out The Prince’s Poison Cup and The Priest with Dirty Clothes. Excellent reading for all ages.
[Disclaimer: I received this book free for review from Ligonier Ministries]
©2011 E.T.
Read More from R.C. Sproul
- The Holiness of God (1985)
- The Priest with Dirty Clothes (1997)
- 5 Things Every Christian Needs to Grow (2002)
- The Dark Side of Islam (2003)
- The Lightlings (2006)
- The Prince’s Poison Cup (2008)
- Believing God (2009)
- John (2009)
- Sola Scriptura (2009)
- R.C. Sproul: A Life (2021; by Stephen J. Nichols)