Also by this author: The Dawn of Redeeming Grace: Daily Devotions for Advent, The Emotional Life of Our Lord, Helen Roseveare: The Doctor Who Kept Going No Matter What, Susannah Spurgeon: The Pastor’s Wife Who Didn’t Let Sickness Stop Her
Series: Do Great Things for God #14
Published by Good Book Company on September 1, 2025
Genres: Children's, Children's Educational
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Part of the popular series of biographies Do Great Things for God, this book follows the thrilling life of John Knox, a 16th-century Reformer whose faith and bravery changed history.
A true tale of adventure, the story of John Knox inspires kids to have courage because of Christ.
Kids will follow John Knox’s exciting life through the twists and turns of persecution, enslavement, exile, and a crucial role in the Reformation.
Vivid illustrations bring the cannons, castles, and other features of John Knox’s story to life. Renowned theologian Sinclair Ferguson’s engaging storytelling conveys a clear call to trust in Jesus.
This book is part of the Do Great Things for God series, designed to show kids how God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Download free extras such as worksheets to help children interact with the true story and think of ways in which they can also follow God and encourage his people today.
This series can be read to young children or enjoyed independently by early readers. The free extras make these stories useful for homeschool, Sunday school, missions events, and more.
This picture book biography introduces children to John Knox, the Scottish pastor who helped lead the Reformation in his country. The book features simple text from pastor and author Sinclair Ferguson, who is also from Scotland, and the book teaches kids about Knox’s life and his devotion to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. The illustrations from Cecilia Messina are colorful and engaging, and they are also age-appropriate, even when the book addresses heavy topics, such as the martyrdom of one of Knox’s ministry associates.
This story teaches kids lots of information about Knox’s life, and it ends with a gospel presentation, which is very appropriate for the story. At the end, there is helpful material for digging deeper. There is a portrait of Knox, some discussion questions, a map that highlights where he lived, and a timeline of his life that covers some additional details. There are also free worksheets related to the book, which people can download from the publisher’s website.
John Knox: The Boy Who Changed a Country will appeal to fans of this biography series, and to people who want to introduce their children to heroes of the faith. However, parents should know that even though the author and illustrator endeavored to make this age-appropriate, the book is very vague, and lacks important historical context about the Reformation. This leaves a lot of gaps, and doesn’t explain the context well, especially for why some people opposed Knox’s preaching and ministry. Parents of inquisitive children may want to do some research in advance to learn about or brush up on some of the background details, so that they can help their kids better understand the story.