THE great number of Bible story books that have been published show how many attempts have been made to supply the want which has long been felt of a work containing a carefully written story of the Scripture narrative for young people.

In this great work which is written in simple language, the captivating story of the Bible is told in a style that will cause it to be read over and over again, and the thrilling truths and beautiful lessons it contains will never be forgotten.

It takes the reader through the Bible in fifty-two lessons, each lesson comprising three readings for each Sabbath of the year, while a series of questions following each reading, help to impress upon the young mind the truths of the Holy Scripture.

The work begins with the marvellous Story of the Creation, describing the beauties of the Garden of Eden, and the awful disaster of the flood; it relates the thrilling scenes in the life of Abraham and the other Patriarchs, and furnishes a great panorama of the wonderful events in the dawn of history.

This is followed by the delightful story of Joseph, who was sold by his envious brethren and hurried away to Egypt, where he was adopted into the king's family, and finally made ruler over that country. The lessons of his life should be read by every boy and girl in the land. He was one of the noblest characters spoken of in the Bible.

Next, we have a glimpse of Moses in his little life-boat, found and cared for by a Royal Princess. We see him growing to the fullness of manhood, becoming leader of his people, and finally breaking their chains and bringing them out of captivity. He stands at the burning bush; he opens a fountain in a rock; he goes up among the clouds of Sinai and receives the tables of the law. This part of the Bible story is full of instruction.

Then grand old Joshua comes forth upon the scene, and the reader follows him through his stormy conflicts and brilliant triumphs. Here, too, is a graphic description of the magnificent achievements of Gideon, telling what wonders he wrought and what valor he displayed. Who has not been fascinated by the delightful story of Ruth? This humble but charming woman was an ancestor of our Lord Jesus and all are interested in the story of her life.

Every young person follows eagerly the thrilling account of King Saul and King David. We see the strong, misguided yet mighty Saul, and also the ruddy shepherd boy whose swift sling slew a giant. Then comes Solomon in all his glory, and along in this part of the Old Testament Story we see that grand man of the desert, Elijah, and follow him through his startling experiences until, in a chariot of fire, he is borne away through the clouds to heaven. We also read of that young patriot Nehemiah, who left the splendors of a palace to rebuild the shattered walls of Jerusalem. He accomplished wonders, teaching the great lessons of devotion and energy.

The Bible is a rich store-house of instruction and entertainment. How captivating is the story of Queen Esther. She presents a striking example of those great crises in which the scale has been turned by the power and influence of woman. Other narratives come in thick succession. The young are always interested in the story of Daniel. Why should they not be? His strong and beautiful character has a peculiar charm, and there are few names in history that shine so resplendently. Let his brilliant record be studied by all, whether old or young.

How eagerly young people read the charming story of Bethlehem—the story of the angelic choir; of the wondering shepherds who heard the heavenly anthem of Peace and Good-Will; of the Holy Child laid in the humble manger; of the burning star that lighted the wise men of the East to the feet of the infant Prophet, Priest and King; and the thrilling incidents connected with His life. It would not be possible for human pen to depict more vividly those majestic events, at once awful and fascinating, which form the closing chapter of our Lord's life upon earth.

We venture, in conclusion, to hope this volume will be the means, with God's blessing, of endearing to many young hearts "the sweet story of old," making them to love from childhood that book which in after years will truly be a lamp unto their feet and a light unto their path.

ILLUSTRATIONS