In this third book in the Old and New series, author Maura Roan McKeegan recounts how all the world spoke one language—until the people of Shinar became too proud, and the Lord came down from heaven and confused their words. What can undo the chaos? And how will Pentecost help God's children understand one another again? Building the Way to Heaven helps young readers to see God's plan of salvation unfold within the stories of the Tower of Babel and Pentecost.
See biblical typology—the Old Testament people, symbols, and events that foreshadow the New Testament—come to life in Building the Way to Heaven. Ages 7 and up.
About the Authors
Ted Schluenderfritz is the illustrator of several books, including The Old and New Series with Maura Roan McKeegan, The Attic Saint, Portrait of the Son, and The Narrow Gate. You can view more of his work on Instagram (@schluenderfritz) and at 5Sparrows.com.
Maura Roan McKeegan is the author of a number of Catholic picture books, including the award-winning Old and New series; Where is Jesus Hidden?; St. Conrad and the Wildfire; The Poorest Shepherd; Julia Greeley: Secret Angel to the Poor; and Seven Clues: A Catholic Treasure Hunt, co-authored with Scott Hahn. Reading aloud with children is her favorite hobby.
Reviews
I gave this title to my three years old grandchildren even after reading them and realizing the concepts presented by the text are well beyond them. As a former children’s librarian though, I realize that the power of images are as important as the text. The parents however, sat down to “read” the book before they previewed it and were quite dismayed by the advanced concept whereas I would use the pictures to simply retell the Old Testament stories of the Great Flood, then the repopulating of the earth, then Babel, skipping the pages devoted to Pentecost. Then I would retell Easter’s Resurrection and how Pentecost reversed the tragedies of the old covenant.
Because the mental process and depth of background understanding necessary to enjoy this book is greater than what this book is rated, and because even a parent with good catechesis struggled to keep the attention of their well catechised young child; I have to rate this book only average for young kids. In my opinion, the minimum age for this book would be at least 8 years old.
Connections between the Old and New Testaments are one of my most beloved topics to study and pray with. This series is probably my favorite set of Scripture books in my classroom. The gorgeous, detailed illustrations and captivating text both create a beautifully thought provoking little book connecting the Old with the New. They help kids and adults alike dig into how the past events of the Bible point to Christ and the Church, turning these stories into a fascinating and rewarding treasure hunt.
McKeegan has taken a few of the biggest typology themes and turned them into accessible, reverent, and beautiful children's books. The End of the Fiery Sword compares Adam and Eve to Jesus and Mary. Into the Sea, Out of the Tomb compares Jonah and Jesus. The brand new Building the Way to Heaven compares the Tower of Babel and Pentecost. Each book uses vivid, lovely illustrations and lyrical language to draw connections between the Old and New Testament on side by side pages. These books would make a wonderful addition to libraries in Catholic homes and classrooms.
As St. Augustine said, "The New Testament lies hidden in the Old, and the Old is unveiled in the New." What better way to unfold these truths with children- I hope that the author continues to add to the series!
Emmaus Road Publishing provided me with a copy of Building the Way to Heaven in exchange for an honest review.
