About Jonathan’s Journey

by Katherine Bell

In 1994, Thomas Nelson -- the largest Christian publisher in the world -- took a chance on a young, inexperienced, unknown writer, publishing a story that really didn't fit into any of their usual genres. Getting that acceptance letter was one of the most exciting days of my life!

Originally intended to be a children's book, Jonathan's Journey -- a fantasy about how a profoundly disabled child comes to know Jesus -- ended up having a multi-level appeal to audiences of all ages. Over the years, I have received hundreds of letters from children, teens, and adults from all over the world, telling incredibly stories about how God has used this book for His glory.

Eventually, Jonathan's Journey was translated into Hungarian (2000) and Spanish (2010). Jonatán utazása is still being used in prison ministry in Eastern Europe, and El viaje de Jonathan is being used in Christian schools in Latin America.

Years after I believed that God was finished with His plans for this book, I received a packet of letters from a missionary kids' school in Indonesia, telling me how much they had enjoyed Jonathan's Journey, and asking why I had not written anything else since it was published. With those letters, those 4th and 5th grade students awakened an idea in me -- an idea which I am now ready to share with friends who have known about the special ministry that Jonathan's Journey has had over the past 25 years.

25th Anniversary Special Edition

I am currently working on an update to the story and a celebratory 25th anniversary re-release of the book. This special edition will feature brand-new chapters and new full-color illustrations by renowned illustrator Maureen O’Brien.

I also hope to include an appendix that answers some of the questions I always get about the book and the real-life Jonathan (now more than 30 years old) and his family; plus testimonies from Jonathan's parents, brothers, and sisters about how God has used and continues to use this story, and Jonathan himself, in ministry.

Did you love the book? I want to hear from you! I've created a Facebook page to share ideas and progress with existing fans of the book, to answer questions, and hear your suggestions.

Buy the book

Please join us in spreading Jonathan’s message of God’s boundless and compassionate love by purchasing a PDF copy of the original edition of Jonathan’s Journey. 

All proceeds of these sales will go towards the brand-new color illustrations from renowned Christian illustrator Maureen O’Brien, which will be featured in the upcoming 25th Anniversary Special Edition.

Everyone who purchases the PDF version from this website will receive 25% off the purchase of the new 25th anniversary special edition when it becomes available (no release date yet). Or purchase five copies (it makes a great gift!) and receive 50% off.

Get started now by reading Chapter 1... free!