I just finished reading a wonderful book called The Mansoul Chronicles, Book 2: The Schemes & Snares of Diabolus with my daughter, and we really enjoyed it. Technically, we listened to the audiobook, which is really well dramatized and engaging.
The illustrations are just lovely, and I really appreciate how the company behind these books, Lithos Kids, is dedicated to bringing deep theology to children through the stories of John Bunyan. This is the second book in the series and is based on Bunyan’s classic allegory The Holy War.
Overall, The Schemes & Snares of Diabolus is a thoughtful and engaging way to introduce children to important biblical truths about spiritual warfare, deception, and the importance of knowing God’s Word. I love that it doesn’t shy away from deeper theological ideas but presents them in a way that is understandable for kids. In a world where our children are constantly encountering competing ideas and messages, stories like this help equip them to recognize truth from error. And honestly, I think adults can get a lot out of these books too.
Since this is the second book in the series, the story picks up after Prince Emmanuel makes his great sacrifice and Diabolus and his followers are cast out of the majestic town of Mansoul. Prince Emmanuel then lives among the citizens for forty days, teaching them and promising to send them the Paraclete after He leaves. I especially loved that the story explains that Paraclete is the Greek word for “Helper.”
Another feature I really appreciated is that after each chapter there is a summary with Bible references that helps connect the story to biblical truths.
I won’t give away the whole story, but here are some parts of the story that stood out to me:
I liked is how it portrays how easy it is for us to let down our guard when life becomes comfortable. The citizens of Mansoul grew tired of wearing their armor and began to think they didn’t need it anymore. Yet the Bible reminds us that believers must always wear the armor of God.
Soon, false captains infiltrate the town. They mix truth with error to mislead the citizens. They quote Scripture, sound reasonable, and their arguments seem appealing. In the same way, certain books, movies, or even friendships can introduce harmful ideas into our lives if we aren’t careful.
The story also shows how the citizens begin trying to earn their own salvation instead of trusting in Emmanuel’s righteousness. They attempt to cover their shame by wearing fancy clothing—an image that clearly reflects the human tendency toward self-righteousness.
One memorable part of the book is when the loyal captains believe they have failed Emmanuel. In response, they try to reform the town by making the citizens feel the full weight of their sin through strict legalism—an approach that ultimately backfires.
In the end, The Schemes & Snares of Diabolus is a powerful reminder that the Christian life requires vigilance, wisdom, and a deep knowledge of God’s truth. Through an engaging story and vivid imagery, this book helps children understand that the battle against deception is real—but that God has given us everything we need in His Word and through His Spirit.
If you’re looking for stories that combine imagination, beautiful illustrations, and rich biblical truth, this is a series well worth adding to your bookshelf.
