Children's Book Review: Little One, God Made You Special by Amy Warren Hilliker. illustrated by Polona Lovsin

Book Description:

Little One, God Made You Special, written by Amy Warren Hilliker and inspired by the New York Times #1bestseller The Purpose-Driven Life, is a cute and cuddly board book that let’s children know God made each one of us very special.

My Review:
As most parents, I believed my babies were perfect even when they made messes. In Little One, God Made You Special the mama and papa animals talk to their little ones in an adoring way. They show them how they're special, from their tiny chins to their big hearts. I like books like this one because I believe children are a special gift and need to know that God created them for a reason. We can't encourage our children too early or too often. Polona Lovsin's illustrations are lovely and add joy to this sweet book. I received Little One, God Made You Special in exchange for a fair review.

Children's Book Review: Read with Me Bible for Little Ones by Doris Winbeek RIkkers, illustrated by Dennis G. Jones

Book Description: 

The Read with Me Bible for Little Ones is the perfect way to introduce the Bible to young children. Featuring simple language and vibrant, full-color illustrations by Dennis Jones, this action-packed padded cover board book is a great way to jump-start literacy and a love of the Bible.

My Review:
The Read with Me Bible for Little Ones features gentle tellings of some of the more common stories of the Bible. I particularly like "Jonah and the Big Fish" because it speaks the truth about what happens when you don't listen. In this case, Jonah didn't listen to God's directions. Each story could also be used for a Bible class in the nursery or preschool class. Although the book doesn't mention the crucifixion, Jesus is depicted going to heaven with the assurance that he'll return someday. I see a lot of good conversation starters for three to four year olds. The illustrations are fun. Young children will enjoy the exaggerated features and big smiles. I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.

Let the Children Come

Luke 19:13-14
Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them.

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 

He ran down the aisle.

The night before, Eli told his mommy he wanted Jesus in his heart. Our grandson loves Jesus and he wants to go to heaven someday. He talked with his mommy and daddy about why he wanted to accept Jesus as his savior and be baptized; and at the young age of six years old, he's got it. So on Sunday morning, with total abandon he ran to the front of the church and met his grandpa who took his confession of faith. Then his daddy baptized this sweet young man in the water. After he came up out of the baptistery he looked at his mommy and said, through his beautiful grin, "I can't believe I have Jesus in my heart!" He was excited.

Jesus told us long ago to have the heart of a child. To run to him with total abandon. But how many times do I let my insecurities, frustrations, and doubts hold me back. Too often Satan gets in my ear and fills me with anxiety. The trouble is, I listen to him sometimes. My prayer today is that I can meet Jesus without constraint, love him unashamedly and run into his arms without hesitation. I asked him into my heart a long time ago. Now I need to bring him into every day and go to him for everything.

The Newsboys sing I Want to Live with Abandon. That's how I want to live! Like a child who runs to Jesus.

Quiet Retreat

©Penny Frost McGinnis

River of Life

©Penny Frost McGinnis

Happy Birthday, Beverly Cleary!

One of the first books I remember reading by Beverly Cleary was Fifteen. Jane, a high school student was asked out by Stan, the most popular boy in school. I remember reading this sweet romance and thinking it was the best story ever.

Many years later my daughters read Henry Huggins, The Mouse and the Motorcycle, and so many other wonderful books written by this beloved author. When I worked in an elementary school library, I read Dear Mr. Henshaw to my students and recommended many of her books to my precious readers.

I can't let this day pass without wishing Happy 100th Birthday to one of the most wonderful children's authors, whose books crossed so many generations.

What's your favorite Beverly Cleary book?

Children's Book Review: The Berenstain Bears Mother's Day Blessings by Mike Berenstain

Book Description:

Mama Bear is the best mama in all of Bear Country and Brother, Sister, and Honey Bear know just what to do for her on Mother’s Day. In this newest title in the Berenstain Bears Living Lights, The Berenstain Bears Mother’s DayBlessings, join the Bear family and all of Bear Country as they spend Mother’s Day together remembering just why our mothers are so special to all of us!

My Review:

As always the Berenstain Bears teach the bear cubs about the blessings in life. This particular book focuses on Mother's Day. I like that Mama Bear points out that moms work in all walks of life, from a mama bear who stays home, to a doctor bear and a farmer bear. Each bear is treated with respect and appreciation. I like that the bear cubs want to surprise their mom and grandma for Mother's Day. This is a sweet story, focused on family, as the bears celebrate Mother's Day with a trip to church and a fun surprise. If you are a fan of the Berenstain Bears you'll want to add this new selection to your library. If you are new to their stories, you'll be delighted with this positive, uplifting tale.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.