Solomon Asks for Wisdom

The Young King and the Wisest Wish

by Kimani Upshur, M.Ed.

This is the true story of the night young King Solomon asked God for wisdom — told straight from 1 Kings chapter 3. It is written to be read aloud, one short chapter at a time; each chapter takes about five minutes, with three illustrations in every chapter.

Halfway through the book, God asks Solomon what he wants — anything at all. Ask your child what they would ask for before you read Solomon's answer. Notice what Solomon asks for: not things for himself, but a heart that listens, so he can take good care of God's people. Wisdom, in this story, is not about being the smartest kid in class. It is about knowing what is right, and doing it, with God's help.

Every chapter ends with a Do or a Pray — one small action for the week, and a short prayer your child can say out loud. And at the very end of the book is a special invitation: how your child can give their life to Jesus.

For children, ages 6–12. The key verse of this story is 1 Kings 3:9, where Solomon asks God for “an understanding mind.” That is a wish God still loves to answer — for kings, and for kids.

Written from a Christian worldview — Scripture first.