Fiction Book Review: Rescuing Finley (#1 book in A Forever Home series) by Dan Walsh

Book Description:

Amy Wallace has made plenty of mistakes in her young life, but she didn’t see this one coming. Chris Seger is a marine serving in Afghanistan. His life is forever altered by a single, fateful step. A mother of another Afghan war vet suffers a devastating loss, which changes the course of Finley’s life for good. Finley is a mostly golden retriever, who suddenly finds himself alone and confused in a dog shelter. Later, he’s brought to a local prison to be trained in a special program for female inmates. Could this prison actually become the place where Finley finally finds his freedom? Rescuing Finley tells the story of how one rescue dog powerfully impacts three tragic lives and puts all of them on a road toward redemption and healing.

My Review:
I stayed up past my bedtime to finish this wonderful story of love and redemption.  There are so many things I enjoyed about this book. Finley has his own point of view in this heart-warming story, which shows animals have feelings, too. Dan's characters  are realistic with honest emotions and issues. I learned about a program for dogs I had no idea existed, and witnessed how God places people in each other's path on purpose. Each person's story evolved as they put their trust in one another but mostly in Finley, and finished with a satisfying ending. Anyone who loves dogs and appreciates character-driven stories will enjoy reading Rescuing Finley. Another aspect of Dan's book which touched my heart was his wife's input. She's a dog trainer who knows the ins and outs. Bottom line-this is the type of book that reminds me why I read fiction. I just love it and look forward to the rest of the series.  Rescuing Finley would be a great gift for a dog lover or a military family. I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

Learn more about Dan Walsh and his books.

Two New Children's Picture Books from Boyds Mills Press

OneDay, The End.: Short, Very Short, Shorter-Than-Ever Stories by Rebecca Kai Dotlich, illustrated by Fred Koehler 

Book Description:

“One day. . . I went to school. I came home. The end,” says our storyteller—a girl with a busy imagination and a thirst for adventure. The art tells a fuller tale of calamity on the way to school and an unpredictably happy ending. The genius of this picture book is that each illustration captures multiple, unexpected, and funny storylines as the narrator tells her shorter-than-ever stories, ending with “One day. . . I wanted to write a book.” An original and incredibly deep combination of text and art invites readers to make up stories of their own.

My Review:
If you've ever wanted to write a story, you'll enjoy sharing this book with a child. Every turn of the page reveals a new story with comical, cartoonish illustrations. The little girl in the book is having so much fun, I want to join her. This would be the perfect book to prompt little ones to write or tell their own small tales. If you teach early elementary or have an elementary child at home, this would be a great addition to your library or a wonderful gift.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

ThisOrq. (he says "ugh!") by David Elliott, illustrated by Lori Nichols

Book Description:
This companion to This Orq. (He Cave Boy.) pits Orq and Woma against a couple of stone-age bullies. Dorq is big, strong, and mean . . . and his pet, Caba, is even worse. But when Caba smashes a giant egg on Woma, Orq is so incensed he bangs two rocks together over and over, creating a spark. Like all good scientists, Orq recognizes an important discovery when he sees it. As he raises a flaming torch triumphantly, Dorq and Caba flee. Small Orq is the inventor of fire—and is a hero to his beloved Woma. An ode to the power of standing up for oneself, this book is the perfect antidote for any child who has ever felt small.

My Review:
In a few words, David Elliott shows how to stand up to a bully. Be smart and not cruel. This Orq. (he says "ugh!") is a well written story that addresses a common problem. Orq is frustrated with the meanness of Dorq, but he doesn't become angry until the bullies pick on his friend Woma. The book prompts discussion about treating others with kindness rather than meanness. Lori Nichols delightful drawings are spot on and add great fun to the story. I especially like the turtle fort and the turtle challenge. I read it to my five-year-old grandson. He enjoyed the story and pictures and liked how Orq was able to scare off the bullies.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

Brothers and Sisters

Phil. 4:1, 4-7
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Brothers and sisters!
Along with my parents, my siblings took good care of me. I was their baby sister, with eleven years difference between me and my brother (the youngest of my sister and two brothers.)  As we've all grown older we aren't together as much, but I know if I need anything they'll be by my side. We do live close enough together to spend some time on Thanksgiving with our mom at my brother's home. The day will be filled with food, fun, and talk of the memories we share. I'm thankful for the love and history I share with my siblings.

In Philippians, Paul speaks to his brothers and sisters in the church. He loves them and tells them how much he misses them. As Paul writes to his friends, I love what he pens. Rejoice, be gentle, trust the Lord, pray with thanksgiving. Oh what joy to have the peace of God cover the heart and fill the mind. I've gained many brothers and sisters in Christ through the years. We still share a love of Jesus. I'm thankful for the encouragement I've received from my spiritual siblings.

With Thanksgiving near, pray with me for brothers and sisters, those close at hand and those across the world. Praise God for relationships! 

The Very First Christmas: The Berenstain Bears by Jan and Mike Berenstain

Book Description:

Join the Bear cubs as they learn all about Jesus’ holy birth. From the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary to the visit from the three wise men, join Mama, Papa, Brother, Sister, and Honey as they discover the story of the very first Christmas.

My Review:
A classic retelling of the Christmas story. I am so happy that Mike Berenstain has continued his parents' work and new generations will enjoy the Bear family. The Bear cubs excitement about Jesus' birth will encourage children to embrace the beautiful story. Of course the illustrations are delightful. If you've enjoyed the Berenstain Bears add this sweet book to your library. If you haven't introduced them to your children, this would be an excellent start. 

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

The Legend of the Christmas Cookie by Dandi Daley Mackall, illustrated by Richard Cowdrey

Book Description:

The Legend of the Christmas Cookie tells the story of a young boy named Jack who learns from his generous mother the story behind the Christmas cookie. The family who began the tradition of baking the special cookies gave them to the needy and shared the story of the very first Christmas. This sweet holiday book offers inspiration for readers to become cheerful givers themselves and encourages them to share the true tale of Jesus' birth. A delicious recipe is included on the jacket flap so readers can make their own Christmas sugar cookies.

My Review:
This old-fashioned story, set during the Great Depression, is a breath of fresh air. Jack not only learns the history of Christmas cookies, he also sees what a blessing it is to help someone else. Richard Cowdrey's detailed illustrations compliment the story perfectly. Every year since my daughters were old enough, we've made homemade Christmas cookies. They're adults now with children of their own. Even though we cut our dough with plastic and metal cookie cutters, I loved reading the story of how the cookies were originally made by pressing dough in to hand-carved molds. I can't wait to read The Legend of the Christmas Cookie to my grandchildren before we make our cookies this year.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

Children's Book Review: The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New by Marty Machowski, illustrated by Andy MacGuire

About the book: 

In the cellar of the old stone cathedral, Carla and Timothy uncover a life-changing treasure, a carefully wrapped ancient book known as The Ology. What adults might describe as a beautifully illustrated storybook of systematic theology, the kids discover to be a story of adventure, mystery, and wonder that leads them to the truth about God, themselves, and the world around them.

Truth is for kids, not just for adults! So The Ology gives kids of all ages a beginner's theology book to help them understand who God is and how we, as his children, relate to him. Arranged within a traditional systematic theological framework, each truth in The Ology is also connected to the larger redemptive story of Scripture. The doctrine of God, for example, is presented in the larger framework of creation, where the attributes of God are more clearly on display. The Ology takes abstract theological concepts and makes them easier to understand with the use of creative examples, illustrations, and analogies. The goal is not to say everything that could be said about a theological topic, but rather to share the key thoughts behind a theological concept. The Ology is a starting point to learning theology and aims to create a hunger and desire in children to learn more as they grow older.

Designed for six-year-olds through preteens, this flexible resource includes built-in adaptations for use with younger or older children, so that entire families can enjoy it together. Read The Ology to preschoolers, read it with grade-school kids, and let older kids discover the "hidden" truths by reading the corresponding Scripture passages for each section. However you read it, The Ology will give your children a gift that will last a lifetime---a solid foundation of life-changing biblical truth that will point them to the God who loves them and gave himself for them.

My Review:
The Ology is not a Bible story book. Instead it's a great tool for teaching children the truths of the Bible. Divided into ten chapters and seventy-one sections, the flexibility of the book lends to easy use and can be shared in order or by topic. Machowski uses easy to understand examples of common things children would understand to introduce concepts. He also includes a parent's guide, glossary, numerous scriptures, and a questions. The Ology is a good source for parents, teachers and anyone wishing to share the Bible with young people. This even a good resource for adults.

I don't see this as sit down and read through kind of book, but more as an open up and let's look at the concept type of book. The illustrations are beautiful and add pleasing aesthetics. There were a few concepts I differed on with the author, but even at that, they can be used as a jumping off point for discussion. I'm giving the book five-stars because the author took on a large task and did a meticulous job providing examples and explanations. Also the illustrators work adds so much to the text.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.
Check out this preview!

A companion The Ology CD from Bob Kauflin and Sovereign Music will also be available.

Purchase a copy 

About the author:
Marty Machowski is a Family Life Pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, where he has served on the pastoral staff for over twenty years. He is the author of the Gospel Story for Kids series, which includes The Gospel Story Bible, Long Story Short, Old Story New, and the Gospel Story Curriculum, as well as the Advent devotional and curriculum Prepare Him Room. He and his wife, Lois, and their six children reside in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

Find Marty online: website, Twitter

Fiction Book Review: Every Girl Gets Confused by Janice Thompson

Book Description:

Katie Fisher and Brady James may be a match made in heaven, but that doesn't seem to guarantee them a happily ever after accompanied by angelic choirs. In fact, the sounds being heard at the bridal shop where she works are on the contentious side lately, as a bride- and groom-to-be try to mediate the growing rivalry between their basketball-obsessed families in the middle of play-off season. On top of that, Katie's parents are nagging her to get out of Dallas and come home to tiny Fairfield where her former boyfriend Carson is waiting for her, ready to rekindle their relationship. Oy vey! What's a girl to do? And will she ever be able to wear that gorgeous wedding dress she won?

My Review:
Thompson's second book in the series A Brides with Style Novel is as funny and enjoyable as the first one. One of the things I like about the series is the inclusion of several generations of Katie's family and the folks who work in the bridal shop. The interaction between the younger and older characters leads to some humorous and insightful scenes. Aunt Alva is my favorite yet I relate to Katie who contemplates what's best for her in her young life. Where should she live, who should she date, what should she do for a living? The tension between Katie and Brady threads throughout the book and adds to the sweet romance. If you enjoy romantic comedy, you'll love Janice Thompson's, Every Bride Gets Confused.  The series is a fun and relaxing read.  

Read more about Janice Thompson.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.