The art of crafting a great story that captures the mind, engages the soul, and encourages the imagination is a beautiful thing. John Bunyan has been a regular influencer on my “best storyteller” list.
Below, I’ll link to a few resources I frequently refer to for a dose of enriching allegorical reading (listening). John Bunyan is many times relegated to children’s literature, and for good reason, but as a seasoned grandfather, I find his allegories a healthy challenge to my soul and mind.
Most will know John Bunyan for his epic allegory, Pilgrim’s Progress. I’m on a lifelong mission to expose people to his lesser-known (but in my opinion, better) allegory, the Holy War.
John Bunyan’s literature has been in print since the mid to late 1600s. He has been published in many languages and updated in modern English many times over. If you enjoy reading to yourself or reading as a family, I recommend starting with modern English and even an abridged version of Pilgrim’s Progress or the Holy War (The War for Mansoul). You can find copies of these books in any public library or consider buying a copy for your home library.
(Bunyan also wrote many other books that are good to read. I have benefited from his theological discourses.)
A special treat is to sometimes listen to an audio version as a family for special family events. I will link to audio resources of both Pilgrim’s Progress and The War for Mansoul (The Holy War) below.
Mount Calvary Baptist Church has posted the best audio versions I’ve ever come across. Share this with others and encourage friends and family members to consider special story nights at home over the next few weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Audio of War for Mansoul, part 1, part 2
Pilgrim’s Progress, part 1, part 2, part 3
When you read or listen to John Bunyan you might want to ask your children two leading questions before and after each time.
- What primary Bible passages come to your mind as you listen?
- To what degree does the story accurately depict Bible teaching?
