Title: The Big Wide Welcome
Author: Trillia J. Newbell
Illustrator: Catalina Echeverri
Publisher: The Good Book Company (Tales That Tell the Truth series)
Publication Date: January, 2022
Format: Hardback
Pages: 32 pages
Recommended Age Range: 3–7 years
Approximate Dimensions: 22.2 cm × 26.0 cm × 1.3 cm
ISBN: 9781784983918
In The Big Wide Welcome, Trillia J. Newbell weaves a captivating, child-friendly retelling inspired by the teaching of James 2, offering young readers a powerful and beautiful lesson on inclusion. Through vivid examples of exclusion—both in biblical times and our modern world—this story gently encourages children to treat everyone with equal kindness and acceptance, just as Jesus does.
Catalina Echeverri’s bright and inclusive illustrations bring this message to life, illustrating diverse children sharing space, play, and friendship. The heart of the story reminds families and churches alike that Jesus calls us not to play favourites—but to welcome everybody, so everyone may know His love.
Other books in the Tales that Tell the Truth series:
Any Time, Any Place, Any Prayer
The Awesome Super Fantastic Forever Party
The Big Wide Welcome
The Friend Who Forgives
God's Very Good Idea
The God Contest
Goodbye to Goodbyes
Jesus and the Lion's Den
Jesus and the Very Big Surprise
One O'clock Miracle
The Prisoners, the Earthquake and the Midnight Song
The Storm that Stopped
Man in the Tree and the Brand New Start
The Christmas Promise
The Big Wide Welcome
Highlights & Benefits
Gospel-Rooted Message: Clearly conveys the biblical principle from James 2 that God shows no favouritism and calls His people to love all equally.
Age-Appropriate and Relatable: Helps children understand the concept of inclusion in everyday situations—at school, church, and home.
Joyful, Inclusive Illustrations: Catalina Echeverri’s art showcases children from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the big, wide welcome of Jesus’s love.
Empowers Church Conversations: A perfect tool for sparking discussion about hospitality, diversity, and how we reflect the Gospel through our community.
Part of a Trusted Series: From the beloved Tales That Tell the Truth collection—known for combining rich theology with accessible, child-friendly storytelling.
Ideal for Church & Family Use: A wonderful resource for Sunday School, family devotionals, or gifting to children learning about God’s love for all people.