Children's Book Review: Super Heroes of the Bible Sticker And Activity Book

Book Description:

Bible heroes come to life through age-appropriate puzzles, activity pages, and 50 reusable stickers in this friendly and fun sticker and activity Book featuring The Beginner’s Bible classic art and simply written content.

My Review:
All the children I know love stickers and super heroes. This a wonderful book for kids who enjoy activities and like to do puzzles. The colorful format will keep them engaged as they learn about Bible characters. Great for those cold winter days.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.  

The Year of Trust

This has been a year of trusting God for answers. Through health issues for myself and people close to me, challenges at work, decisions on where to worship, and happy times--my daughter's wedding and the addition of more family have brought me to my knees so many times. Both in praise and request, I've sought out God's wisdom and the Holy Spirit's nudgings. I thank God for tending to me and my loved ones. 2015's word for the year was "follow." And I tried my best to walk the path God rolled out before me.

For 2016 I want to "keep moving forward." That sounds easy enough. But I know I can get stuck in a rut and ignore the prompts to move, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. By moving forward I hope to grow in wisdom and faith.

I'm not one to make resolutions but I do want to be aware of my need to grow and learn through this new year.

I pray you have an excellent year ahead.

What are your thoughts on resolutions and goals in the new year?

Children's Book Review: Little Love Letters from God

Book Description:
What child does not love to receive mail? What if that child could receive, open and read his or her own personal mail from God? The Little Love Letters from God board book will invite them to do just that! Accompanying each of the eight stories in this unique children’s Bible is a very special and encouraging letter tucked away in its own lift-the-flap envelope. With a padded cover for little hands, Little Love Letters from God introduces children to God’s Word with eight of the most popular Bible stories—including creation, Noah’s ark, the birth of Jesus and more. Following each story the child will find his or her own letter from God. Children will love the excitement of opening the letters and parents will love how each letter elaborates on the Bible story being told. A very special Bible verse, entitled God’s Wonderful Words To You will accompany each story and letter. Much more than a mere memory verse, each carefully chosen promise will be God’s very own personal words of love, encouragement, and hope.

My Review:
This beautiful book will be one to treasure. Glenys Nellist poems tell the Bible stories in a lovely way. Each of the little letters speak to the soul and will be valuable teaching tools for the person sharing this wonderful book. British artist, Sophie Allsopp's illustrations are outstanding. The techniques she uses add a whimsical and delightful element to the pages. I love this book, and I think you will, too.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.  

Two Childrens' Book Reviews: Joseph the Dreamer & Facing the Blazing Furnace, pictures by David Miles

Book Description:
Joseph may be his father’s favorite son, but his brothers feel differently and sell him into slavery in Egypt. In this Level 2 I Can Read written and illustrated in the tradition of the bestselling Adventure Bible, find out how God turns a bad situation into a big blessing. Perfect for beginning readers ages 4-8, learning Bible stories on their own.

My Review:
I like the I Can Read! Adventure Bible series. Joseph the Dreamer is especially wonderful for boys. In the story Joseph suffers at the hands of his brothers, goes on to fulfill God's plan and learns to forgive. The story is simple, yet holds a great message. If you have an early or independent reader, this series is a great addition to their library. David Miles creates colorful illustrations that enhance the story.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review. 

Book Description:

When King Nebuchadnezzar orders everyone in his kingdom to worship a golden statue, three young men refuse to obey. They disobey the king and risk death in the fiery furnace. Find out what happens in this Level 2 I Can Read written and illustrated in the tradition of the bestselling NIV Adventure Bible. Perfect for beginning readers ages 4-8, learning Bible stories on their own.

My Review:
Facing the Blazing Furnace is a good teaching tool for children to explain what it means to worship God. The story is exciting and intense and should be read together. With the characters walking into a fire, an adult will want to explain what the times were like for Daniel and his friends. As always David Miles illustrations add a great deal to the story.
I received this book in exchange for a fair review.  

Far Better Things Ahead

Check out my post at Putting on the New where I talk about moving forward despite setbacks.

Children's Fiction Book Review: Woodford Brave by Marcia Thornton Jones, Illustrated by Kevin Whipple

Book Description:

Cory Woodford, aka “The Kid”, is determined to live up to his intimidating family legacy of bravery. While his father is off fighting in World War II, eleven-year-old Cory and his friends spend the summer building go-carts, drawing comics, playing baseball . . . and tracking down Nazi spies. Right and wrong are more complicated than in Cory’s beloved comics, and he and his friends soon learn that the world isn’t as black and white as they thought. In an age when friendships are deep and complex, Cory makes mistakes and hurtful decisions. Based on the author’s personal experience and research, Woodford Brave is a deeply satisfying novel of summer and friendship, but also explores what it means to be a son, a friend, a neighbor—and truly brave. Includes an author’s note and selected bibliography.

Book Review:
First of all, Kevin Whipple's illustrations add so much to this book. He's created a comic book within the story lines that will entertain readers. I love the 1940s children and their view as they deal with the reality of war and how it affects them, their town, and their families. As I read the story, I felt I had a better understanding of what my parents went through as WW2 hit home. This would be a good book to help kids understand the history, the value of friendship, and family. A word of caution, there are some swear words in the book and some sad events. Overall, I'd recommend the book to kids 4th-8th grade.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

Not a Creature is Stirring

Luke 2:28-35
Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
    you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
   which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
    a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
    and the glory of your people Israel.”
The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

The day after Christmas and all through the house not a creature is stirring...

This morning I picked up the remnants of last night's party. My fridge is full of left-overs and my heart overflows with the joy of family. We shared gifts. Some hand-made, some made for spending later. And I loved every one. We added new family this year and watched a sweet 18-month old enjoy the magical chaos. And in the midst, we read of the angels who announced to the shepherds, the birth of the man who would be Savior.

Yes, Jesus came to earth as a baby. And I love celebrating his birth. But more than that I love remembering his life. He walked the earth for thirty-three years. In his last three years he taught his followers and all who would listen about God. He spoke the beatitudes. He preached of light and salt. He was tempted and baptized. He lived so he could die for me and all who walk on earth. But most important, as I told my grandchildren last night, he rose from the dead to offer new life after this one ends. I love Jesus and thank God for his son. Praise God for the gift of life!