‘CSB Explorer Bible for Kids’ named Bible of the Year

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — The “CSB Explorer Bible for Kids” by Holman Bibles of Lifeway Christian Resources was named Bible of the Year at the recent Evangelical Christian Publishers Association’s Christian Book Awards.

This marks the first time in 18 years the the association has named a children’s resource Bible of the Year. Only two children’s Bibles have won the award since the category was introduced in 1988.

“We are honored the ‘CSB Explorer Bible for Kids’ has been recognized and awarded Bible of the Year,” said Andy McLean, publisher for Holman Bibles. “It affirms what we set out to accomplish—creating a compelling way to help kids engage with the history, culture and meaning of the text of Scripture.”

The “CSB Explorer Bible for Kids” features a full-color design with images, illustrations, timelines and interactive study helps. Book introductions help readers understand the central message of the text and discover how the 66 books of the Bible fit together to tell one cohesive story. Interactive QR codes are embedded throughout the text, connecting readers with online videos, discussion questions and printable activities for home, school or church.

Additional features of the “CSB Explorer Bible for Kids” offer the following benefits:

• “Christ in Context” notes show how the entire Bible points to Jesus and the gospel.
• “Discovering the Truth” callouts help kids understand and apply essential biblical truths.
• “Excavating the Past” illustrations and real-world images link archaeological discoveries to Scripture.
• “Exploring Creation” facts and images connect modern-day objects to God and the Bible.
• “Charting History” illustrated timelines survey key time periods and events.
• “Character Field Guide Profiles” reveal fun facts and insights about important people in Scripture.
• “Archiving Discoveries” highlight key verses to aid in Scripture memorization.
• An “Explorer Glossary” and topical concordance offer meaning and context for key biblical words.

“One of the most fulfilling aspects of our work at Holman Bibles is the opportunity to help readers meaningfully engage with the written Word of God—especially our youngest readers,” said McLean. “The ‘CSB Explorer Bible for Kids’ is designed to build biblical literacy, offering historical context while connecting stories and characters to the grand narrative of Scripture. This visually compelling Bible fuels kids’ curiosity, empowering them to know, love and live the Word of God throughout their lives.”

The “CSB Explorer Bible for Kids” uses the text of the Christian Standard Bible, which features an optimal blend of accuracy and readability. The CSB has continued to gain traction with readers of all ages. In April 2023, it was the No. 2 bestselling English Bible translation according to ECPA sales data.

In addition to winning the ECPA Bible of the Year award for the “CSB Explorer Bible for Kids,” Lifeway received the Spanish Bible of the Year Award in April for “The Thematic Study Bible” (Biblia Temática de Estudio), by the Spanish Evangelical Publishers Association (SEPA). This is the first time Lifeway has won the ECPA Bible of the Year Award and SEPA Spanish Bible of the Year Award in the same year.

More information about the “CSB Explorer Bible for Kids” can be found at Lifeway.com.