The story of the Good Samaritan is one of the most powerful reminders that kindness doesn’t ask for a reward — it just asks for courage. This week on Faithfully Explore! we traveled down the dusty road from Jerusalem to Jericho, solved a mystery, and discovered what it truly means to help someone in need.
If your kids (or you!) want to keep exploring the message, here are four standout books that bring the parable to life — from beautifully illustrated retellings to modern-day reflections.
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📘 1. The Good Samaritan and Other Parables
by Tomie dePaola
Tomie dePaola’s warm illustrations and gentle tone make this a perfect introduction to the Good Samaritan for children. He retells several parables with clarity and charm, creating a book families return to again and again.
Best for: Ages 4–8
Why we love it: It’s classic, comforting, and visually beautiful. A wonderful way to talk about kindness at bedtime.
📗 2. The Good Samaritan (Level 2 — I Can Read! / Adventure Bible)
by Zondervan, illustrated by David Miles
Perfect for early readers, this book blends simple storytelling with early-reader independence. The sentences are short, the pacing is quick, and the illustrations help children follow the action.
Best for: Ages 5–8 learning to read independently
Why we love it: It empowers kids to read themselves — and feel proud doing it.
📙 3. The Science of the Good Samaritan: Thinking Bigger about Loving Our Neighbors
by Dr. Emily Smith
This one is for grown-ups! Dr. Emily Smith, an epidemiologist known as “The Friendly Neighbor,” explores why loving our neighbors is both deeply human and scientifically measurable.
Best for: Parents, teachers, and anyone hungry for modern meaning
Why we love it: It shows that kindness isn’t random — it’s powerful, contagious, and actually changes communities.
📕 4. The Good Samaritan
by John Marrs (2025 — NOT FOR KIDS)
A psychological thriller loosely inspired by the idea of “helping,” this book is not appropriate for kids but worth mentioning for your adult readers. It’s gripping, twisty, and dark… the total opposite tone of the parable.
Best for: Adults who enjoy suspense
Why we included it: Same title, very different journey!
🎒 Want More?
If you haven’t listened yet, check out this week’s episode:
👉 The Good Samaritan – A Journey of Kindness
Complete with imagination scenes, mystery, movement, and your Belief Backpack takeaway.