Who Was David? continues the Kingdom Files series by Matt Koceich. Written by an elementary school teacher, the entire series is targeted for kids ages 8 to 12. Grayscale pictures are present throughout the chapters (David looks really young when he fights Goliath).

The first portion of Who Was David? is the “Fact File” – two pages that provide basic information about the character such as name, occupation, approximate time of life, etc.

The “Action File” is the longest section and retells the story of David, a brave youth who became king of Israel. The text aligns with the Biblical narrative, but does not include everything. The majority of this section was concentrated on David's ascent to the throne. His battle with Goliath is mentioned as are the situations by which he married his first two wives. Absalom's troublemaking occupies a few pages, but David's affair with Bathsheba is not mentioned, only that she was Solomon's mother.

The last chapter of the “Action File” focuses on brief explanation and instruction of a handful of David's Psalms. The chapter is best experienced with a Bible open to the Psalms to read each chapter and then the corresponding paragraph in Who Was David?

The “Power File” offers ten short devotions based off the story and accompanied by a Bible verse. These are appropriate for both genders and suited to the targeted age range. On the surface, these seem like simple thoughts, but they are based on deep truths that can uphold one's faith in God.

In conclusion, Who Was David? by Matt Koceich teaches the story of David as it entertains and instructs.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. ( )

The perfect alternative for Christian children, something that you can feel good about them reading to enhance their Christian faith.
The author did a wonderful job of drawing in and keeping interest, set up like a case file, and part of Barbour’s new series, The Kingdom Files.
As the back cover states Who Was He?

Was he:
. . .a shepherd boy turned king?
. . .a faithful harp player?
. . .a brave giant slayer?
. . .all of the above?
risked her life to save her people?
. . .all of the above?

• Age Range: 8 - 12 years
• Grade Level: 4 - 6
• Series: The Kingdom Files
• Paperback: 96 pages
• Publisher: Barbour Books; Gld edition (August 1, 2018)

A perfect add to your library.

I received this book through Barbour Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review. ( )

This is a delightful children's series called Kingdom Files, by Matt Koceich. It takes the reader (children ages 8-12) on a wonderful journey into the past to discover more about people in the Bible and to find out that each featured person did a lot of great things. I thoroughly enjoyed this book about David. He is a boy who defeated the giant Goliath in the bible. He has a lot of other things that he is known for, that Mr. Koceich has lined out for the reader to discover; using Fact File, Clues, and Power Files, so that the reader is able to quickly understand who and what David was really like. I enjoyed reading this book. Can't wait to share it with my grandson. There are interesting pictures throughout the book, I think the small size of the book will attract pint sized readers.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. ( )

Kingdom Files: Who Was David is a uniquely presented story about the Biblical David, for reader ages 8-12.

The Kingdom Files series is designed to be an investigation for young reading detectives. Each case (book) is presented in three sections:

• Fact File – Information about a particular Bible character
• Action File – Bible events showing the character in action
• Power File – Information and memory verses to help the investigator in his/her own life

Informational Clue Boxes are also included to help the reading detective throughout his/her investigation.

This book investigates the life of King David, the mighty warrior and writer of Psalms. It tells of his early years, becoming a king, and his final days, giving Scripture memory verses and “power-ups” (or applications) helpful in daily life.

The author, Matt Koceich, is a public school teacher, and relates well to young learners. In his series, he not only entertains, but teaches biblical occurrences, principles, and the message that God loves us and is with us through the good and bad. It’s a great concept, has a unique presentation, and serves as a valuable tool in teaching curious young readers.

Cover: Like
Title: Love
Pages: 96
Series: The Kingdom Files
Publisher: Barbour Books
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. ( )

I really enjoyed reading this biography about David that is written for children age 8-12. I love the illustrations in this book. This book really explains what happens to David to help him become king. I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. ( )