5 Allegories for the Whole Family to Share

Looking for ways to spend more time together as a family? Why not read an allegorical story your whole family is sure to enjoy!?

I’ve always loved parables and allegories. When writers take true things about God and look at them from a different angle, the switch can often allow me to grasp a deeper, more heart-changing meaning.

Honestly, I think this is why Jesus used parables so often in His teaching. It might be confusing to understand a person’s relationship with God, but what about a son’s relationship to his father? Enter the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 2—a story that helps us grasp the fact that God is running toward us when we come to Him, like the father runs to his son who was once lost but is now home.

A simple truth that suddenly carries such a deep meaning for those who come to Christ.

Because I love this kind of storytelling, I want to tell you about five allegorical stories I think you should share with your family. These stories will entertain, teach, inspire, and encourage everyone in your home.

1. Kingdom Tales by David and Karen Maines

I was in grade school when I first heard these stories and they remain favorites of mine to this day. Every time I read them I am encouraged and reminded of something true about following Christ.

Ages 8+, especially delightful as a family read-aloud.

2. The Prince Warriors Series by Priscilla Shirer

In this book series two brothers, who have spent far too much time battling each other, are dropped into a world where they discover a much greater battle taking place. This allegorical tale introduces the reader to the spiritual truths found in Ephesians 6:10-18.

Ages 10-15+, specially written for boys.

3. Daughters of the King by Natasha Metzler

These allegorical fairy tales give you a glimpse into the lives of five young women who were once slaves and are now learning what it means to follow the King. With unique and delightful illustrations, your teen girl (and probably you too!) will find these tales speaking truth and reminding you of the goodness, the wholeness, the unending hope that is found in following Christ.

Written for girls ages 12-18, enjoyed by women of all ages.

4. The Terrestria Chronicles by Ed Dunlop

Much like Pilgrim’s Progress, the Terrestria Chronicles follows the spiritual journey of one young man, Josiah. We join him as he navigates through the land, facing a fierce war between good and evil and the occasional wandering dragon.

Ages 10+, designed to be a read-aloud with the whole family.

5. Hinds Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard

In this classic allegory, Much-Afraid is invited by the Good Shepherd to leave behind the fear-driven life she had been living and learn to climb the mountains to the high places. While this story is more of a pure allegory than some of the others, there is so much good and so many hope-filled lessons in the pages.

Ages 6-10 will love this version that can be read with the family.
Ages 12 and up will enjoy this beautifully illustrated edition.

A few bonus books:

The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis — This is a well-known classic that is enjoyed by many!

Pilgrim’s Progress — Another classic and can be found in abridged and illustrated versions for younger readers.

The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson — This epic story spans multiple books and carries a strong allegorical thread through them all.

The Torch Keeper by Hosanna Emily — This is a well-done allegory that my teenage daughter really enjoyed!

Do you have a favorite book that carries an allegorical storyline? I’d love to hear about it!

Blessings,

Natasha