Arlo and the Keep-Out Club

Arlo has been longing to play with the big boys on the playground. But when he’s given the opportunity to join their club, he is faced with a tough decision. Will he gain the acceptance of his new friends by doing what he knows is wrong, or will he do the right thing even though it may lead to rejection?

Going against the social grain can often leave us feeling lonely, but in his grace, Jesus enables us to do what is right and stays by our side when we feel left out. Written for kids ages 3–7, this engaging picture book teaches children that following Jesus may come at a cost, but the Lord offers a greater reward as our ultimate friend and comforter. A section for parents at the end of the book provides tips for raising children who can resist negative peer pressure. Arlo and the Keep-Out Club is the recipient of Christianity Today’s 2025 children’s book award.

Publisher: Crossway
Type: Hardback
ISBN: 9781433589973

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Betsy Childs Howard (MA, Beeson Divinity School) is an editor for the Gospel Coalition. She is the author of Arlo and the Great Big Cover-Up and Seasons of Waiting. Betsy lives with her family in Birmingham, Alabama, where her husband pastors Grace Church. Samara Hardy is a freelance illustrator and designer who creates artwork for greeting cards, stationery, housewares, children’s books, and more. She has worked with clients across the globe, such as Hallmark, Trader Joe’s, Oxford University Press, and American Greetings.

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“Few things are more important than catechizing the next generation with the precious, sacred gospel truths. This beautifully illustrated series combines creativity and orthodoxy in a way that children can understand and remember. If you are a parent interested in effective, solid resources for your family, you’ll want to get the entire series. If you are in children’s ministry, you will want to put these books in your library.” Daniel Darling, Director, The Land Center for Cultural Engagement; author, The Biggest, Best Light and Jesus and the Characters of Christmas