Over the last two nights Marni and I read The Lightlings to our daughter Karis. The Lightlings is a short, well-written allegory that captures the essence of the biblical story of redemption in a creative, arresting fashion. The story makes use of the Scriptural motifs of light and darkness. The Son of God is the Light of the World (John 8:12). He is also the light of men, whom the darkness cannot overcome (John 1:3-4). Through Him, His followers themselves become light (Matthew 5:14). Sproul’s story involves a Grandpa referring to a race of tiny beings known as Lightlings. The Lightlings follows the story of creation, fall, and redemption. The Grandpa uses the story to explain to a boy named Charlie why some people fear light more than darkness, and why Charlie does not need to fear the darkness. At the back of the book, there is a helpful list of thirteen questions which walk through the parallels between Sproul’s allegorical account and The Greatest Story.
In addition, the text is wonderfully complemented by exquisite, richly detailed illustrations (Justin Gerard) that are sure to keep children attentive.