FAITH NEWS SERVICE – And the King Smiled uses story, song, and simple acts of kindness to help children see that their love for God matters, not only for others, but to God himself.

Gilbert, AZ – May 18, 2026 — Children are often taught that God loves them, but many are still learning what it looks like to respond to that love in everyday life. In And the King Smiled, longtime children’s biblical educator and SongStory Curriculum creator Sue Montgomery offers families, churches, and classrooms a lively but gentle picture book that helps young readers understand how God longs for a reciprocal relationship with them. 

The story shows how children can express love to God incorporating developmentally appropriate language and example.

Published by RP Kids, an imprint of Redemption Press, And the King Smiled follows Princess Evelyn, who longs to surprise Father King with something special enough to make his heart smile. But when her plan to bake his favorite cookies falls apart, Evelyn learns that her morning conversation with him, her song, her desire to know him better, and her compassion toward a sad neighbor have already brought the king deep joy.

At a time when many parents and ministry leaders are looking for meaningful ways to disciple children beyond basic Bible knowledge, And the King Smiled gives families a warm and memorable picture of a loving Father-King who delights in His children. Through a blend of story, rhyme, music, and richly detailed illustrations, Montgomery helps children see that loving God does not require grand gestures. A child’s prayer, song, curiosity, and kindness can become beautiful offerings of love.

The book’s story notes guide children to practice four simple ways to express love for God: talking to Him, singing to Him, learning more about Him, and showing kindness to others. The bonus pages at the end also include biblical and comprehension discussion questions, a cookie recipe from the story, and access to the original song “Every Song That You Sing,” making the book especially useful for bedtime reading, Sunday school, homeschool, children’s ministry, and family discipleship.

Sue Montgomery’s hardcover will be available on May 19, 2026; with the e-book free to download on Amazon for 5 days through May 23, 2026. Early readers are already sharing how much the story has touched them. Here’s what a couple of reviewers have said:

Amazon Customer
5 Stars
“A new family favorite!
Such a sweet and meaningful book! The story of Princess Evelyn trying to make her father’s heart smile is charming, and the message about loving God back is beautifully simple for little ones to understand. The lyrical writing makes it a joy to read aloud, and the story notes at the end are a lovely touch for families. A wonderful gift for any child!”

Kelley
5 Stars
“A Loving Father
Parents are often looking for a tool how to convey the love of God to their children. “And the King Smiled” offers this opportunity. Despite the ups and downs of life, the King (a representative of our Heavenly Father) is with us at all times. He sees the intentions of our heart and walks alongside us to teach and encourage us. He is a loving King and Father. I appreciate the included guided questions and downloadable song. The author knows music is a great tool to engage children’s minds and energy. Children love cookies and especially partaking in the preparation. Be prepared for a baking session!”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sue Montgomery’s life has included song for as long as she can remember. And she has found she can’t sing a song without wanting to tell a story, and she can’t tell a story without wanting to sing a song! For the past four decades, God has allowed her to teach His Word to children with a heart and passion that can only come from Him. SongStory Curriculum, which uses song and story to teach foundational biblical truths in an intentional sequence, is the outcome of these ministry years. A wife, mom of three, and grammy to six, Sue also enjoys gardening, reading, baking cookies, and discovering the love of Jesus that’s around her every day. And the King Smiled is the author’s first picture book, derived from a play she wrote and performed for children.

For interviews, contact: songstorycurriculum@gmail.com