I’ve been praying for  some time now about an idea that might be a huge blessing for anyone willing to partner with me on a children’s book project. Several years ago I painted a portrait of the boy Jesus titled, “When I grow Up.” I have presented it everywhere I have been invited to speak and I always get the same question, “Why don’t you make this painting into prints or possibly a children’s book?  

Recently, I began to wonder why I have never before attempted to do so because I always believed this painting, if presented in a book format, would make an excellent instruction tool for Sunday school children of all ages. Well I feel that time has finally come and I believe God will bless this project.

This is where I’m at right now. I have taken this portrait and each element represented in it, such as the lamb (the lamb of God), the light in the background, (the light of the world) and presented it in a page format again, as a teaching tool through its symbolism and how this young boy would one day fulfill all the thing written about him. Below is the text I have written for “When I grow Up,” that betters explains the use of each symbol in it. This is not the text that will be used in the book itself but only an example and concept behind the artwork.  

Here’s what I need from that  Christian “entrepreneur” out there who will take up this vision with me and help take this idea to the marketplace. Financial backing by way of an initial investment for a % of the profits when we start selling it. All of the creative legwork has been so the idea is to first self publish the book ourselves than shop it around to all the big Christian retailers. We would also offer it on Amazon and other book sites and our own websites as well. What makes this project unique is the excellence of the detail and symbolism done in a simple format that children can relate to because they will be able to picture Jesus at their own age. The age where hopes and dreams are born.

I have never seen a childrens book presented in this way and that is what sells in the marketplace, quality and originality. The childrens book market is huge and the number of churches that might be interested is inexhaustible. Its getting it into the marketplace that is impossible without the appropriate funds. The investment will go into the printing of the books and the advertising and marketing as well depending on how much is invested.

The potential is there if this is done right. Americans invest in many things. Why not present them with something that is geared to shaping young minds in how they see Jesus at their own age and again, as being so much like themselves.

---------------

If you are interested or have any questions, I can be contacted here through my website or @

--------------

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

---------------

                           
"Have you ever imagined what Jesus wanted to be “when he grew up? The truth is he was no different than you or I. He played with his friends, he laughed, he cried and he most likely got picked on at times and dreamed of places far from his home in Nazareth. He was a normal little boy of twelve who desired the love of his parents and found happiness in the simplicity of childhood games and mischief."

James Robert Kessler
Because of Him Art Ministry 2009