Gus Loses His Grip: When You Want Something Too Much - by David Powlison

About the book:

Gus, a raccoon who loves all things sweet, learns what happens when you want something too much. After Gus gets caught taking candy from the store, Papa reminds him that temptation might be strong for us, but it’s not too strong for Jesus. Both Gus and Papa can ask Jesus for help when they want something too much.

The last page contains information for parents on how God, in his Word, helps us turn to Jesus when we are tempted. Together children and parents will be guided into meaningful conversations about living by faith in the details of everyday life.

Also included is a tear-out page of “Back Pocket Bible Verses” that will give children a practical way to remember God’s words when they want something too much.

A new series of hardback, illustrated children’s books for three-to eight-year-olds—each centered on an animal family—bring gospel help and biblical counsel to families. The animal characters, colorful illustrations, and the real-life issues each animal family face will captivate children. The first three books address anxiety, anger, and failure, bringing biblical help and hope to issues every child faces.

My review:

This was an excellent story about temptation and how even good things can become too important to us if we want them more than Jesus.  I liked how the dad realized he was doing this, too, with his fishing lures just as Gus was with candy, though the dad didn't steal any!  This was a good reminder for me and probably for everyone, young and old alike!  There were fun illustrations of different animals dressed in clothes, at a market, etc., behaving as humans do.  I liked how Gus asked forgiveness for stealing and the shop owner forgave him rather than just glossing over it.  The gospel and sin is explained in a relatable way and there's an excellent resource in the back for helping your child with the "I Wantsies" as they call it.  I highly recommend it!

I received this book from New Growth Press. I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.