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Dive into the book of Romans with your kids using The Sword: Magnus and the Mystery of Romans.
*The Sword: Magnus and the Mystery of Romans by Marty Machowski, illustrated by Flavia Sorrentino. New Growth Press, 2025. 176 pages.
- Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10
- Recommended For: Ages 8-10
Can kids understand the book of Romans? Marty Machowski not only thinks they can, he has helped them to do so. Machowski compares a child’s understanding to wading in the shallows of the ocean: it’s still wet and still has the power to transform, although a greater understanding obviously awaits!
The real question is: does he succeed? I’m not an upper elementary-school aged child, but I think he does. The story begins with Brant and Katana, siblings, and their discovery of an ancient book, a Mystery. Learning about the mystery will take them back to the days of the book of Romans…
Like The Ology (a book we liked very much!), this book has a frame tale: a story to hook the reader and lead them into the real story. Most of this book is an exposition of the book of Romans in bite-size chunks, coupled with plenty of explanatory stories and information. Scripture passages are given at the top of each reading, and Machowski recommends reading those alongside reading The Sword. At nearly 150 chapters, this book would make an ideal school year reading project (most school years are 180 days of instruction). It’s a perfect time to start! Chapters are short and can easily be read over dinner or before bed.
The illustrations in this book are very different from those in The Ology or WonderFull, and they have a retro vibe that is fresh and fun, even while they may remind you of mid-century artwork.
Bottom Line: A great option for those who want to dive into the book of Romans, especially if they’ve already worked through a book like The Ology.
*indicates a starred review, the best of the best in its field
Recommended Reading at Redeemed Reader
- Book Reviews: Similar books by Machowski include The Treasure, The Ology, and WonderFull. A fun book for younger readers is Angels on Your Side. For older readers, check out Brave and Bold or Dragon Seed.
- Book Reviews: For younger readers, check out these Christian picture books: The Wheelies series, Jesus Moments: Jonah, and Joseph and the Very Strange Dreams.
- Book Review: You might also be interested in The King’s Cadets and Little Joe!
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