REVIEWS
My Favorite Superhero is already getting rave reviews.
We’re so proud to share the great reviews the are getting from professional readers and editors who have loved My Favorite Superhero: Teaching little ones about Jesus. Enjoy!
“An engaging and entertaining way to retell the greatest story ever told.”
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
His strongest superpower is how much He LOVES you!” Love is an incredible superpower. In Stephanie Unale’s My Favorite Superhero, young readers can follow the story of Jesus through the eyes of one extremely bright star who witnessed it all. The story traces Jesus’ life from when he was born and God made the stars in the sky shine brighter “to show that Jesus is His Son.”
During his growing-up years, Jesus showed compassion for others, reaching out to a poor family without food and helping an older man repair his broken cart. When he was a young man, Jesus was baptized to show his love for his Father in Heaven. That’s when God gave him his superpowers, and Jesus used them to do good for others, like feeding a multitude of thousands with only a few loaves and two fish or bringing a sick person back to life. We all know how the story ends, but it doesn’t end, as it continues to this day with a superhero that looks after us every day.
Stephanie Unale’s picture book, My Favorite Superhero: Teaching Little Ones About Jesus, is an engaging and entertaining way to retell the greatest story ever told. The language is simple so young readers can easily follow along and improve their reading skills. The illustrations by Amanda Kunkel are bright, bold, and colorful and add another dimension to an already wonderful story. At the end of the book, the author has included some informative and interactive pages. There’s a list of questions to spark a lively discussion, a page on how to connect with Jesus, a few activity pages including exploring the scenes, some quotes from Scripture, and a prayer to help young readers as they learn to connect with Jesus. This is a very thorough book aimed at young readers.
“A wonderful way to introduce children to Bible stories”
Reviewed by Diana Lopez for Readers' Favorite
Stephanie Unale's My Favorite Superhero: Teaching Little Ones About Jesus is a wonderful way to introduce children to Bible stories. Amanda Kunkel's colorful illustrations make the teachings even more engaging. The story begins with Beth, a star who can see everything and knows the lives of many people. She emphasizes that only one figure is the greatest: Jesus. Beth explains that Jesus was sent from heaven by God. She also narrates significant moments from his life, from birth to adulthood. Along his way, Jesus always sought to help others; in his youth, as a carpenter, and with acts of charity. Later, he manifested his power through miracles and gestures of kindness. We see him healing the sick, multiplying bread and fish to feed a multitude, and teaching about love and forgiveness by speaking of God.
Stephanie Unale uses simple language, ideal for young children. She tells the story without avoiding difficult episodes such as the crucifixion. I loved the narrative style's emphasis on love and altruism. Additionally, biblical quotes are included to help children understand the stories better and reinforce their learning. I liked that Stephanie went beyond the story. She encourages young readers to practice prayer and meditation and to strengthen their personal relationship with Jesus. This will help children learn to manage their emotions effectively. The illustrations are wonderful, with realistic representations of animals, scenery, and characters that make the story even more interesting. My Favorite Superhero teaches about compassion and kindness while encouraging children's spiritual development.
“Heartwarming and imaginative. ”
Reviewed by Stacie Hearn for Author’s Reading
My Favorite Superhero" by Stephanie Unale is a heartwarming and imaginative children's book that introduces young readers to the story of Jesus in a unique and engaging way, using the lens of superhero storytelling. The story is narrated by Beth, a lively and twinkling star who has watched over the world throughout all of history. Beth shares her firsthand account of the life and journey of Jesus, describing Him as the greatest superhero of all time. Through vivid illustrations and an accessible narrative, the book captures the essence of Jesus' teachings, miracles, and love, presenting them in a way that resonates with children.
The book highlights key themes designed to make Jesus' story engaging and relatable for children, portraying Him as a superhero with incredible "superpowers." By weaving together meaningful stories from His life, it shows how His miraculous acts, like healing the sick, calming storms, and feeding thousands with just a few loaves and fish, demonstrate both His divine power and His boundless love and compassion for the world. The book also shows the pivotal moment of Jesus' Baptism, which marks the beginning of His ministry and serves as a powerful confirmation of His identity as the Son of God. Through vibrant storytelling and relatable language, the book brings to life the extraordinary ways Jesus touched the lives of those around Him, inspiring children to see His profound impact on humanity and understand the depth of His message of love, kindness, and faith.
The book comes to life through the enchanting illustrations of Amanda Kunkel, whose artistry elevates the storytelling and captivates young readers. Designed for children aged 3 to 8, the visuals seamlessly complement the narrative, making it an engaging and delightful read. Kunkel’s whimsical and playful artistic style perfectly captures the imaginative essence of the story, bringing its fantastical, superhero-themed elements to life. The illustrations not only enhance the book’s charm but also play a crucial role in immersing children in its magical story.
Through this heartfelt story, children are introduced to the everlasting and unconditional love of Jesus, highlighting His unwavering presence in their lives, no matter the circumstances. The narrative gently reminds young readers that Jesus is always there to guide, comfort, and support them through life’s challenges. This profound message not only strengthens their faith but also plays a vital role in nurturing important values such as compassion, kindness, and empathy in their young hearts, encouraging them to reflect His love in their actions toward others.
"My Favorite Superhero" is aimed at children between the ages of 3 and 8, making it suitable for early readers and as a read-aloud book for parents and caregivers. The simple yet profound storytelling is designed to resonate with young audiences, encouraging them to see Jesus as a relatable figure and a source of inspiration.
Stephanie Unale's My Favorite Superhero is a charming and beautifully illustrated book that masterfully blends the excitement of superhero tales with meaningful lessons about Jesus, love, and compassion. Through captivating storytelling and vibrant artwork, the book introduces young readers to the story of Jesus in a way that feels relatable and inspiring. It draws parallels between the traits of a superhero—courage, kindness, and selflessness—and the life and teachings of Jesus, making complex ideas accessible to children. Designed not only to entertain but also to educate, this book offers kids valuable life lessons about empathy and faith. A perfect addition to any child’s library, it’s an engaging resource for parents and educators looking to inspire thoughtful conversations about spirituality and values.
The book concludes with a thoughtful set of questions and discussion prompts designed to encourage readers to reflect on the lessons and themes explored throughout the chapters. These questions aim to deepen the reader's understanding and spark meaningful conversations about the key takeaways from the book..
“Bridges the gap between contemporary interests and timeless spiritual teaching.”
Reviewed by The Children’s Book Review
My Favorite Superhero: Teaching Little Ones About Jesu sreimagines Jesus's story for a new generation by blending biblical teachings with contemporary superhero appeal.
Beth, a twinkling star who has witnessed all of history, narrates this creative adaptation of Jesus's life and ministry, whose miracles and teachings are presented in the story through an accessible superhero lens that helps make the spiritual concepts approachable for young readers. Delightful backmatter includes discussion questions, a seek-and-find game featuring Beth the Star, a nighttime prayer, and more.
Written in an upbeat, child-friendly tone, Unale treats the subject matter with appropriate reverence, using scripture references throughout to provide seamless connections to Bible verses, allowing parents to expand discussions beyond the story. For even further expansion, the thoughtful use of interactive backmatter is an added bonus that helps transform the book from a simple story into an engaging teaching tool that families will have fun revisiting repeatedly.
Working hand in hand with the text are Kunkel's vibrant digital illustrations which fill each spread with energy, effectively capturing the wonder of miracles and the gentleness of Jesus's love. Stephanie Unale uses simple language, ideal for young children. She tells the story without avoiding difficult episodes such as the crucifixion.
I loved the narrative style's emphasis on love and altruism. Additionally, biblical quotes are included to help children understand the stories better and reinforce their learning. I liked that Stephanie went beyond the story. She encourages young readers to practice prayer and meditation and to strengthen their personal relationship with Jesus. This will help children learn to manage their emotions effectively. The illustrations are wonderful, with realistic representations of animals, scenery, and characters that make the story even more interesting.
My Favorite Superhero teaches about compassion and kindness while encouraging children's spiritual development.
“Delightful. I highly recommend this inspirational story for children of all backgrounds to read and enjoy.”
Reviewed by Lindsay DeRollo for Readers' Favorite
My Favorite Superhero: Teaching Our Little Ones About Jesus by Stephanie Unale is a delightful story for children that teaches them how Jesus Christ is the one true superhero of the world. The book is narrated by the Star of Bethlehem (cleverly nicknamed “Beth”),
who God made shine extra brightly to show us the miraculous birth of Jesus, His son.
Beth describes all the amazing things Jesus did for us, including sacrificing His life so that we can live with Him up in heaven for eternity. What a star-worthy superhero! There are also simple reflection questions and activities at the end of the book to further increase comprehension and engagement. Children will learn what you can do to be closer to and more like Jesus.
Author Stephanie Unale does a wonderful job in My Favorite Superhero: Teaching Our Little Ones About Jesus so children can understand how Jesus used unconditional love to serve others, show kindness, and perform miracles. The bright and animated illustrations by Amanda Kunkel will draw children into the story and highlight Jesus’ warm-hearted personality and His followers' love and adoration for Him. The shining Star of Bethlehem represents how Jesus is the light of the world. The illustrations also demonstrate to children the amazing miracles Jesus performed, such as curing illnesses and creating food for people who needed it.
The story is transparent in how Jesus suffered on the cross for our sins, which is very important for children to understand. I highly recommend this inspirational story for children of all backgrounds to read and enjoy.