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Arlo and the Keep-Out Club

By Betsy Childs Howard, Illustrated by Samara Hardy

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TGC Picture Book Introduces Children to the Danger of Peer Pressure and the Joy of Friendship with Jesus

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.

  • Written for Kids Ages 3–7: Accessible story accompanied by colorful illustrations to keep kids engaged 
  • Teaches Kids an Important Life Lesson: Following Jesus may come at a cost but it also offers a greater reward through friendship with God
  • Practical Approach for Parents and Guardians: A “Note to Grownups” provides advice for helping kids navigate negative peer pressure and rely on Jesus instead 
  • TGC Kids Series: Teaches kids biblical truths while engaging their hearts and imaginations
  • Sequel to Arlo and the Great Big Cover-Up
  • Christianity Today’s 2025 Children’s Book Award Winner

Read Chapter 1


Author:

Betsy Childs Howard

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.

Illustrator:

Samara Hardy

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.

Product Details

Category: Children & Youth
Format: Hardcover
Page Count: 40 + self ends
Size: 8.5 in x 8.5 in
Weight: 11.25 ounces
ISBN-10: 1-4335-8997-4
ISBN-13: 978-1-4335-8997-3
ISBN-UPC: 9781433589973
Case Quantity: 48
Published: September 17, 2024

Endorsements

“The Gospel Coalition’s illustrated storybooks provide ready-made conversation starters for families to use on important issues that kids struggle with. They answer these challenges with biblical truths that offer gospel solutions to their problems. Parents and grandparents should add these picture books to their family libraries.”
Marty Machowski, Executive Pastor, Covenant Fellowship Church, Glen Mills, Pennsylvania; author, The Ology and The Redemption Tales

“With charming illustrations, relatable characters, and kind-hearted wisdom, the TGC Kids series is a wonderful way for children to imagine what it looks like to grow in godliness in their everyday lives. Kids will love reading these titles with their parents, and parents will be delighted to see how the stories offer a loving launchpad for biblical application within their own homes. I genuinely adore these books.”
Caroline Saunders, author, The Story of Home and Kids in the Bible

“The TGC Kids series is a wonderful addition to any library. Each title brings an opportunity to share a fun and engaging story with our children while also helping them see gospel truths unfolding in relatable, real-life situations. I’m grateful for these books, the way they model biblical wisdom, and the many spiritual conversations they have sparked in my home.”
Scott James, author, The Sower; The Littlest Watchman; Mission Accomplished; The Expected One; and Where Is Wisdom?

“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

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.