author
Charles Foster
1822–1887
Best remembered for retelling Bible stories in clear, approachable language, this 19th-century writer reached generations of young readers and families. His books were practical, narrative, and designed to make religious reading feel simple rather than distant.
1 Audiobook
New Lights on Old Paths
by Charles Foster
About the author
Charles Foster was an American religious writer and publisher whose dates are commonly given as 1822–1887. Catalog and library records link him most strongly with The Story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, a widely circulated work that was repeatedly reissued, showing how strongly it connected with readers.
His books were aimed especially at children and family reading. Titles associated with him include First Steps for Little Feet in Gospel Paths, The Story of the Gospel, or, Our Saviour's Life on Earth, and New Lights on Old Paths, all of which suggest a gift for presenting Christian teaching through simple stories and accessible language.
Although detailed biographical information is limited in the sources I could confirm, his surviving bibliography gives a clear sense of his work: he wrote to instruct, encourage, and make scripture easier to enter for younger audiences. That plainspoken, welcoming style is the main reason his books have continued to circulate long after his lifetime.