Jesus and the Gift of Friendship

Storybook by Trillia Newbell Teaches Kids to Embrace Jesus as Their Closest Friend and Provider

Friends are one of the greatest gifts from God and reflect his ultimate gift―Jesus! But what happens when the desire for friendship goes unmet? Where should kids turn in their moments of sadness? 

In this thoughtful children’s book, readers journey with Zeke as he suffers from missing a close friend and experiences rejection after inviting a neighborhood boy to play. With help from his mom and consistent prayer, Zeke develops an unlikely friendship and an important dependence on Christ. 

Jesus and the Gift of Friendship will spur hope and comfort in the lives of kids ages 3–6, teaching little ones to embrace friendship as a blessing from God and a reflection of Jesus―our dearest friend and ultimate provider. 

• Written for Kids Ages 3–6: Jesus and the Gift of Friendship will encourage little ones to embrace Jesus as their closest friend  
• Thoughtful Story with Gospel Truths: Teach kids about the love and comfort found in and through Christ
• Rooted in Scripture: Provides a biblical application for a common Bible passage on friendship―John 15:12–15

Trillia Newbell is the author of numerous books, Bible studies, and children’s books, including God’s Very Good Idea; The Big Wide Welcome; and Creative God, Colorful Us. Newbell is the acquisitions director at Moody Publishers and lives with her husband, Thern, and two children near Nashville, Tennessee.

Kristen Howdeshell is an illustrator and cofounder of the Brave Union, a freelance illustration team. Alongside her husband Kevin, their artwork is published in many children’s books including Seeds and Trees; The Moments with Jesus Encounter Bible; and I Am the Storm. This husband-and-wife duo lives in Kansas City, Missouri, with their four children.

Kevin Howdeshell is an illustrator and cofounder of the Brave Union, a freelance illustration team. Alongside his wife Kristen, their artwork is published in many children’s books including Seeds and Trees; The Moments with Jesus Encounter Bible; and I Am the Storm. This husband-and-wife duo lives in Kansas City, Missouri, with their four children.