THE SHORT ANSWER
A Bible translation translates Biblical source texts into another language. A retelling retells stories in an author's words and selection. Many children's Bibles are retellings; a Bible with illustrations can also contain a complete translation.
Why this difference matters
If you are looking for a book to discover well-known stories together, a retelling could be a good fit. If you want to be able to look up passages yourself and read the continuous Bible text, check whether you are purchasing a complete Bible. The word “Bible” on the front does not in itself tell you what is inside.
A reteller can shorten stories, make a selection and choose words for a certain age. Narrative tone and interpretation play a role in this. Therefore, check who wrote the book and read an example, especially if you are giving it as a gift.
Three checks in the product description
- Is there a translation name? For example NBV21, HSV or BGT. See if that name describes the entire content or just quoted passages.
- What does the table of contents say? Does it concern all Bible books in the edition, a number of stories or just the New Testament?
- How does the publisher describe the book? Words such as “retold”, “selection” and “52 stories” provide different information than “complete Bible text”.
If the description remains unclear, ask the bookstore. A colorful cover, thick book or long title does not prove that an edition is complete.
A children's Bible does not have to be a retelling
There are also editions with a complete translation and additional material for children. For example, the NBG mentions the complete BGT in the Read Together Bible. The extra questions and activities help with reading, but are slightly different from the Bible text itself.
Make your choice based on use: reading aloud, discovering independently or specifically looking up passages. Check out our explanation about children's Bibles and the article about switch to a complete Bible.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Bible with pictures always a children's Bible?
No. Illustrations say nothing decisive about the completeness or level of the text.
Is the BGT a retelling?
No. The Bible in Ordinary Language is a translation from the source texts.
Topics: Language and translation
Sources and accountability
For information about translations and editions, we consulted these sources on October 13, 2026:
- NKJV: Involve children in Bible reading
- NKJV: the translation of the Bible into Ordinary Language
- NKJV: Reading Bible Together (2025)
An addition or correction? Let us know.