The World That Was

2 books · Ages 8–18

The World That Was is a 2-book series for ages 8–18 by Marc Olson. Each book stands alone — start anywhere.

Where to Start

Start anywhere — each book stands alone.

That said, The World Jesus Knew and The World of the First Christians are great first picks.

All Books

No particular order needed — browse and pick what catches your eye.

The World Jesus Knew
The World Jesus Knew2019
The World of the First Christians
The World of the First Christians2020

What This Series Covers

Loneliness & BelongingHistoryChristianity & Christian FaithFamily & SiblingsGrowing UpCultural Identity

What to Read Next

Browse more →
Cover of Phantoms in the Snow
Phantoms in the Snow
Kathleen Benner Duble
Orphaned Noah Garrett, 15, is sent to live with an unknown uncle at Camp Hale, Colorado, during WWII. There, his deeply
Ages 10–14
Cover of Egg & Spoon
Egg & Spoon
Gregory Maguire
For readers seeking a grand adventure through a darkly enchanting world, this story explores identity, class, and destin
Ages 13–18
Cover of The Second Chance of Darius Logan
The Second Chance of Darius Logan
David Walker
For young adults navigating past mistakes and seeking a path forward, this compelling story explores themes of redemptio
Ages 14–18
Cover of Off the Road
Off the Road
Nina Bawden
In 2035, a boy named Tom lives in a society where only children matter and elders are sent away. When his grandfather es
Ages 4–11
Cover of My Father's House
My Father's House
Mina Javaherbin
For a child grappling with changes at home or the meaning of belonging, this lyrical story gently explores themes of fam
Ages 6–8
Cover of Crowning Glory: A Celebration of Black Hair
Crowning Glory: A Celebration of Black Hair
Carole Boston Weatherford
For the child who needs to see their unique beauty reflected and celebrated, this book is a joyous affirmation of Black
Ages 4–8