God Made Polliwogs and Puppy Dogs

Young children will enjoy learning all about animal babies in Dandi Daley Mackall’s book God Made Polliwogs and Puppy Dogs. The book starts with a portion of scripture—Psalm 68:6, “God sets the lonely in families…” This snippet is framed by a family tigers, a puppy, and tadpoles. After that, each two-page spread shows frolicking animals. The rhyming, large-print text is placed one or two lines per page, and introduces the reader to various animal babies. From piglets to joeys and cygnets to keets, each animal is named and then illustrated in cute, cartoon-like fashion by illustrator Janet Samuel. After seeing a multitude of animal babies, the author focuses on a human family, reinforcing the idea that “God sure loves those babies.” The book ends with a prayer thanking God for creating all families.

What I Like: The book is fast-paced, and the rhyming meter works, making it fun to read aloud.

What I Dislike: I love the idea of pairing the book idea with Scripture, but it seems awkward to me to take only a portion of the verse to make it apply. The rest of that verse that is not printed is “he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy. But he makes the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.”

Overall Rating: Very Good

Age Appeal: Ages 2-5 years

Publisher Info: Harvest House Publishers, 2015; ISBN: 978-0736958738; Hardcover, 32 pgs., $12.99

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The Legend of Saint Nicholas

The true story of St. Nicholas - a real man who served God well on earth - is a favorite in my home. My children love hearing about "the real Santa Claus" and why he's remembered today. Anselm Grun's The Legend of Saint Nicholas, then, ought to be a welcomed addition to our family bookshelf...

The book recounts the major stories surrounding Nicholas, who lived in the 4th century A.D. It begins with his birth, which the author says happened only after his parents prayed for a child. Nicholas becomes a priest, and his parents die, leaving him quite an inheritance. This Nicholas uses to help the needy.

There is one father in Nicholas' town who is so poor, he considers selling his three daughters in order to help support the rest of his family. Hearing this, Nicholas secretly drops a bags full of money into the man's home. The family rejoices; now the daughter's can marry. (The author neglects to mention that in those days, women needed a dowry of money in order to wed.)

Nicholas becomes bishop, and some time later, some sailors are caught in a terrible storm. They call out for Nicholas, and soon Nicholas appears, walking on water. He helps the sailors get their ship under control, then disappears.

Now there is a famine, and Nicholas prays for the people. God tells Nicholas to go to the harbor the next morning - there is a ship there that will feed everyone. But the captain of the ship is worried; the emperor will punish him if the grain is underweight. Nicholas promises the grain will measure out perfectly, even if he shares the grain with the people. Miraculously, there is enough grain for two whole years - plus the grain the emperor ordered.

Nicholas dies, and a nobleman asks St. Nicholas for help; he wants a son, and promises to make a golden cup for the saint if he gets one. His wife gives birth to a son and the nobleman has a cup made - but it's so beautiful, he decides to keep it for himself. He has another cup made for the saint, and he and his son travel by water to deliver it to the church of St. Nicholas. The son falls into the water and drowns, but the nobleman takes the second cup to the church anyway. He tried to put the second cup on the alter, but it keeps falling off. Then his son, whom he thought was dead, runs in and places the first cup on the alter, saying St. Nicholas saved him from drowning.

Finally, the book mentions Nicholas' kindness to children and St. Nicholas' Eve, where children traditionally leave their shoe by the door with the hope that Nicholas will leave them a gift.

What I Like: The illustrations, by Giuliano Ferri, are rich in color - and while they have a sort of primitive look about them, do a good job of telling the story and showing the emotions of the characters.

What I Dislike: Almost everything.

This book is historically inaccurate, which is a real shame. For example, Nicholas' parents died when he was still a boy. He was raised by his uncle and certainly wasn't a priest at the time. Grun's writing is also really dry, making what could be a interesting story ho-hum. The legends the author includes offer some details I've never heard before; for example, I'd never heard that Nicholas supposedly walked on water or that the father was considering selling his daughters as slaves. I don't know whether this is because the legends in this book are inaccurate or if these are just aspects of the legends that aren't commonly told.

Protestants will probably be uncomfortable with the last legend in the book, where the nobleman seems to pray to St. Nicholas. And the ending seems really tacked on - telling us about the less familiar St. Nicholas' Eve, but not about Nicholas' connection to Christmas.

And since this book is written in such a straight-forward manner, with no hesitation to talk about some of the more difficult legends surrounding St. Nicholas, I'm surprised it doesn't even mention that he was persecuted because of his faith.

For those looking for a better, more kid-friendly picture book about St. Nicholas, I recommend The Legend of Saint Nicholas by Dandi Daley Mackall or Saint Nicholas by Julie Stiegemeyer.

Overall Rating: Ho-hum.

Age Appeal: I'd say about 6 - 12.


Publishing Info: Eerdmans, 2014; ISBN 978-0802854346; hardback, 26 pgs., $16.00

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Natalie Wants a Puppy

Five year old Natalie is about to graduate kindergarten. And she's getting a puppy. Or at least that's what her sleuthing skills have revealed. Unfortunately, though, in Dandi Daley Mackall's read to me chapter book Natalie Wants a Puppy, Nat's detective skills are way off. What she's really getting is an adopted baby brother. That's definitely not as good as a puppy. In fact, Nat's not sure she likes the idea at all

When Natalie's parents hurriedly pack their bags to travel to China, leaving Natalie to stay with her grandma, Nat's throat feels "all chokey." Why do her parents have to leave her behind? Will they really come back? And, most importantly, do they still love her, or are they replacing her? She prays about it, but God's answer isn't immediately forthcoming.

Grandma, trying to soften the blow, does give Natalie a puppy, and just as her parents return home with her new baby brother, Nat reflects on her schoolwork to discover a deep truth. Nat's cat, Percy, doesn't like the new puppy and is missing. Natalie cries and tells her puppy: 

"'Percy ran away, Puppy. He thinks I love you and not him. Only that's a lying thing. I love both of you!' I know this is for true. I know that adding Puppy made me love both of them more. 'Adding means more!' I tell Puppy. 'Not less!"

And just as Natalie's parents are adding another child to the family, Nat realizes they love her more - not less - than ever.

What I Like: Mackall does a great job of getting into the head of a 5 year old. And what child can't relate to worrying about how much their parents love them? Best of all, Natalie comes to the happy conclusion that she is loved in a natural, realistic way.

What I Dislike: Nothing. Although I should note a few things that might bother other parents. The point of view in this book is Natalie's - and the author does a good job of writing similar to how a typical 5 year old speaks. This lead to some minor grammatical errors (like "bestest"), but I found my kids actually found this funny and endearing. If it bothers you, it's easy to edit out as you read aloud.

In addition, there is a section of the book where Natalie talks about not enjoying math (which leads to her realizing "adding means more"), and another where Natalie visits a friend whose older sister is bratty and mean, even saying "I hate you!" and hitting (which makes Natalie wonder if she wants a sibling at all).

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: I'd say 5 - 8.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz, 2009; ISBN:  978-0310715719; paperback, 96 pgs., $4.49

Buy Now at Amazon for $4.49 Or buy at ChristianBook.com for $4.49

Special Info: Check out our reviews of other books in the Natalie series. For a similar series with a slightly more mature heroine (who speaks with better grammar), see our own Lori Z. Scott's Meghan Rose series.

The Story of the Easter Robin

Combining traditional Pennsylvania Dutch folklore with a modern story of a worried little girl, Dandi Daley Mackall's The Story of the Easter Robin makes an interesting addition to any family's collection of Easter books.

Tressa is worried the robin living in her grandmother's tree is laying her eggs too early. Gran reminds her that God will take care of the robin and her eggs. "See that bare spot on her red breast?" Gran says. "God made her so she could warm her babies through that brood patch." Still, Tressa is unsure, especially when a cold snap hits the day before Easter.

Gran tries to distract Tressa by blowing out some eggs, dying them robin's egg blue, and adding paper wings to them - a Pennsylvania Dutch tradition. As Tressa and Gran work on these Easter birds, Gran tells the legend behind the robin's red breast.

Years ago, a robin flying over Jerusalem recognized Jesus on the cross. (Gran says, "All earth's creatures, except humans, recognized Jesus - the Creator-God come to earth.") In despair, the robin sees an especially long thorn stabbing Jesus' head; using all its strength, it pulls the thorn away from Christ.

"And as it came out, a drop of Jesus' blood fell onto the robin's breast, staining it red from that day to this. 'Ever since,' Gran said, 'the robin's red breast reminds us of Christ's sacrifice and how much he cares. The robin's song is the first sign of spring, helping us remember that after Christ died, he rose again on that first Easter.''"

On Easter morning, when Tressa goes outside to hang the egg-birds on Gran's tree, she finds bits of real blue robin's eggs on the ground. Looking into the robin's nest, she sees with relief that the robin's babies are alive and well. "'God takes care of his creatures,' Gran whispered." And Tressa says a prayer, thanking God for the robins - and for Jesus.

What I Like: The illustrations by Anna Vojtech are both beautiful and detail oriented, adding a great deal to the story. I also appreciate the combination of nature studies (learning a wee bit about robins) and the Easter story woven into a book that makes it easy for those of us who have robins in the neighborhood to remind our kids about the true meaning of Easter.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: 4 - 8
Publishing Info: Zonderkidz; 2010; ISBN: 978-0310713319; hardback, 32 pgs., $15.99.Buy Now at Amazon for $10.87
OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $9.99

Special Info: Read our reviews of other books by Dandi Daley Mackal.

Backyard Horses: Horse Dreams

Prolific author Dandi Daley Mackall has written a charming new series for girls ages eight to twelve, called Backyard Horses. Horse Dreams, the first book in the series, introduces us to fourth-grader Ellie James, who longs for a beautiful show horse to call her own. Joining Ellie are her little brother, Ethan, who can't hear, and her best friend, Colt, who manages to still be a friend, despite entering the awkward stage of boy-girl friendships.

When Ellie's teacher assigns a science experiment for class, Ellie decides to try three methods of acquiring a horse. She will beg her parents for a show horse, cry and try to convince her parents to buy her a show horse, and pray for a show horse. After the experiment, she will document her results. Although Ellie's teacher laughs, she likes Ellie and is willing to allow her to try the experiment. However, Ellie routinely gets in trouble for day-dreaming in class. When Ellie blurts out "There's a horse out the window," everyone assumes Ellie is day-dreaming again.

When Ellie gets home from school, she learns her mom lost the same scrawny, filthy horse Ellie saw out the window! Thus begins a race to capture the horse before animal control stuns it. Plot Spoiler Ahead: Ellie calms the horse down and returns it to the rescue barn. Slowly, her dreams begin to change. Could this ordinary "backyard horse" be the answer to her prayers?

What I Like: I love the verse Mackall chose to begin the series. She gives us a brief definition of a backyard horse, saying, ". . . Backyard horses are often plain and ordinary on the outside. . . but frequently beautiful on the inside." Then, she quotes I Samuel 16:7, " The Lord said to Samuel, 'Don't judge by his outward appearance, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." This is a message tween girls can't hear too often.

I also like the inclusion of sign language in the book. Each chapter title is written in words and sign language. Ellie's friend, Colt, learned sign language just so he could talk to Ethan, too.

Mackall includes a glossary of horse terms, as well as a sign language alphabet at the back of the book.

The book is printed with large font and relatively easy vocabulary, making it perfect for younger readers ready for chapter books, or struggling readers, as well as any girls who love horses.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 8-12

Publisher Info: Tyndale House Publishers, 2011; ISBN: 978-1-4143-3916-0; Paperback, 150 pages, $5.99

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Sophie, Pay Attention (Rhoda, You Too)!

Has your child ever forgotten to do his homework? Or had trouble paying attention to little details? In Susan Barnett Baun’s Sophie, Pay Attention (You Too, Rhoda)!, young Sophie is struggling with the same problem. Not only that, but Sophie’s family doubts her when she says she’s spotted a deer in their yard. Their disbelief causes no end of frustration to Sophie. Sophie knows she needs to do something… but what?

Along comes Mrs. Westfall with a Sunday School lesson about another young girl who sounds a lot like Sophie: Rhoda. Rhoda was with a group of Christians who were praying for the apostle Paul when, lo and behold, Paul comes knocking on their door. Rhoda answers it, and is so excited she forgets to let Paul in. Then when she runs to tell the others, no one believes her. Inspired by the Bible story, Sophie determines to work hard, to do the right thing about her homework, and to keep telling the truth about the deer.

The story is told in first person with age appropriate language. Sophie is a likeable character with a good heart.

What I Like: I have been a long-time advocate for Christian children’s fiction written for this age group… so it’s refreshing to see another book geared toward this particular audience. Plus the story has a good takeaway value without being preachy. It reminds me of the Natalie books by Dandi Daley Mackall (targeted toward a slightly younger age group) and the Meghan Rose books by Lori Z. Scott (for grades K-2) and Cindy Kenney's Precious Girl's Club series (geared for ages 9-12). Sophie isn't quite as well written, but it’s still an easy and enjoyable read. If your children like those series, they'll probably like Sophie too. I also LOVE the price. You can hardly go wrong when the cost is so reasonable.

What I Dislike: This is minor, but I didn’t particularly care for the first half of the opening chapter, which read like a laundry list. I would have liked a stronger opening. Even so, once the author got into the action of the story, I found it engaging and fun.

Overall Rating: Very good

Age Appeal: The publisher lists ages 6-9.

Publisher Info: Amazon Digital Services, no year listed; ASIN: B005P3NKJ0; available in Kindle version only, 23 PGS., $2.99

This book is not available at Christianbook.com.
Buy the kindle version at Amazon.com for $2.99.

17 Christmases

Dandi Daley Mackall has written over 400 books. This is one of her newest.

Following one family's holiday travels, 17 Christmases puts a fresh, positive spin on all the busy activity that so often surrounds this season.

The family -- a mom, dad, 8-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter -- have 17 Christmas celebrations to attend. The book opens with them packing and wrapping and planning, then jumping in the car for their nationwide journey. In L.A. they toast lemonade instead of drinking hot chocolate. In Texas they take a Christmas Eve swim with seventy-two cousins! New York's Christmas is loud and busy, but full of diversity. They make stops in Colorado, Missouri, Ohio, and even Alaska! All told, they celebrate Jesus' birth in seventeen different states.

It's way past December when they finally return home. Even though the tree is dry and the fruitcake is moldy, they feel blessed and happy. As they turn in for the night, the son remembers their trip.

"I think of the Savior and climb into bed,
While visions of Christmases dance in my head.
I thank God for Jesus and family galore,
For seventeen Christmases -- never a chore."

Illustrated by Michele Noiset, the pages are filled with saturated colors and sweet characters. Each page highlights the geographical location with an artistic font while the pictures reveal unique characteristics of that place and Christmas there.

What I Like: After a while, all kids' Christmas books seem kind of the same. This one is clearly different. I like that it encourages a delightfully positive perspective on the busyness that often swallows up the joy of Christmas. It reminds kids and parents that we are blessed in all the activity rather than burdened by it. It focuses on family and not just activity. I really enjoyed it. My kids loved it! It's fun to see how different families celebrate Christmas in different parts of the country. I also really like the inclusion of a map on the inside covers. This makes for interactive, educational discussion with each read. "Where does Granny live again?" "This is where we live!"

What I Dislike: The course of travel is completely illogical. Yes, I realize this is a kids' book and it's meant to be funny, but as someone who does lots and lots of road trips, this really distracted me. No parent in their right mind would believe Washington state is a reasonable detour between Philadelphia and New York. Philly and NYC are only two hours apart, while Washington state may be a four- or five-day drive toward the opposite coast. Aside from this little geographical annoyance, though, the book is great.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: 4-8

Publisher Info: ZonderKidz, 2010; ISBN: 0310715881; Hardback; 32 pages; $16.99

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Special Info: This book is clearly intended for families who live in or are from the United States. Please note that Hawaii is not pictured on the maps. It is the only state not shown; Washington, D.C. is also not visible.

Please visit the author's website or her book blog for more information about her and her other titles. You may also be interested in our reviews of other books by this author.

Natalie and the Downside-Up Birthday

What happens if the mean girl in your kindergarten class does just about everything imaginable to ruin your birthday? That's what Dandi Daley Mackall's Natalie and the Downside-Up Birthday explores, much to the delight of preschoolers and kindergartens.

Natalie - spunky, lovable, and full of faults we can all relate to, is so excited her 6th birthday is coming up. Not only is she having a birthday party at home, but she gets to have a mini party in her kindergarten classroom. But then her teacher announces she has a "birthday buddy" - none other than "Sasha-the-not-so-nice," the brattiest kid in the classroom. Sasha seems to get everything a kid could want for her birthday: Her cupcakes for the class are bigger and better than Natalie's, and she also gives out huge napkins, toys, and cookies. Nobody wants Natalie's homemade cupcakes. And then Nat discovers Sasha's at-home birthday party is the same day and at the same time as her own. And everybody seems to want to go. There will be real ponies, a bouncy house, lunch at a pizza place with lots of games, and even bowling. Who'd want to go to Natalie's ordinary birthday party?

But in the end, Nat learns she has something Sasha doesn't have. Something much better than huge purple cupcakes or pony rides. She has friends and family - and a God - who loves her.

What I Like: My daughter, who is about to turn 5, loves the Natalie books, and with her birthday coming up, she could really relate to this tale. She felt sorry for Nat, cheered Nat on, and felt happy for her in the end. Mackall really has a lovable character here, and she does a terrific job covering topics young kids relate to.

My daughter and I also appreciate that these short chapter books (this one is 95 pages) are lightly illustrated throughout with black and white drawings by Lys Blakeslee.
What I Dislike: As with all the Natalie books, sometimes in an effort to capture the voice of the young heroine, the author uses poor grammar. This is a real pet peeve for me, and I correct it as I real aloud. For example, throughout, Nat calls another character her "bestest friend" and it's not uncommon to encounter sentences like this: "I wait for them to be waked up more." I do understand that kids in this age group often speak like this, but having poor grammar in a book only encourages them to continue speaking incorrectly.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 3 - 8, but I doubt many 8 year olds would want to read about kindergarteners.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz, 2009; ISBN: 978-0310715696; paperback, $4.99

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $4.99. Or buy as a Kindle edition from Amazon for $3.99.

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $3.99.

Special Info: Check out our reviews of other books in this series. See also our reviews of other books by Dandi Daley Mackall.

Natalie and the Bestest Friend Race

It's difficult to find read-to-me or beginning reader chapter books for Christian kids, so Dandi Daley Mackall's Natalie series is most welcome in our household.

In Natalie and the Bestest Friend Race, our impish protagonist Nat tells the story of how she accidentally told her best friend Laurie's secret. In their kindergarten class, Laurie goes into what nasty Peter-the-Not-So-Great calls the "dumb" reading group. Nat tries to defend her friend, blurting out that she has dyslexia - a secret Laurie wanted kept. When Laurie learns everyone in their class knows of her reading difficulty, she's deeply hurt to find out Nat is the source of it all.

So when it comes time to pick teams for the Kindergarten Olympics, Laurie doesn't chose Nat. Instead, they end up on opposing teams. Worse, Laurie starts hanging out with Not-So-Nice Sasha.

As Nat tries to work out her feelings of guilt, sadness, and anger over her best friend no longer being her best friend, she learns she's pretty good at jumping hurdles - her sport in the Kindergarten Olympics. In fact, she's almost sure to win the hurdling competition - until Laurie falls and Nat rushes to help her. Nat blurts out a heartfelt apology, and Laurie forgives her. Nat looses the race, but she and Laurie hold hands and cross the finish line together.

Throughout, black and white illustrations by Lys Blakeslee add interest.

What I Like: Mackall is good at getting into the head of Nat; the first person prose certainly rings true. The story also gives parents and young children an excellent opportunity to talk about good sportsmanship, loyalty, and the ups and downs of friendship. And while Nat admits she doesn't understand why God would allow Laurie to have dyslexia ("This does not seem like a fair thing. And right then, right there, I whisper this to God. I hope it doesn't hurt God's feelings, but I tell him I don't like that he let Laurie have 'slexia...And I wish he hadn't made that mistake with my friend. That's what."), she also learns God never makes mistakes.

What I Dislike: I really dislike children's books that use incorrect English. Throughout, Mackall's Nat calls Laurie her "bestest friend" and at one point, Nat states that something "works pretty good."

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 4 - 8, but most kids don't want to read about "little kids" who are younger than they are.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz, 2009; ISBN: 978-0310715702; paperback, $4.99

Buy Now at ChristianBook.com for $3.99

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Special Info: Read our reviews of other Natalie books. Also check out our reviews of other books by Dandi Daley Mackall.

Crazy In Love

Crazy In Love, written by Dandi Daley Mackall, is a fabulous read for teen girls and parents of teen girls. This novel is about a seventeen-year-old girl’s first real boyfriend and her decision to not have sex with him. If you are a very conservative parent and you’re uncomfortable with this subject matter, you might want to read it first. The author is typically a Christian writer, but has crossed into mainstream teen fiction with Crazy In Love.

Mary Jane Ettermeyer thinks of herself in two ways: Plain Jane when she wants to do the right thing, and M.J. when she wants to make selfish, carefree choices. Mary Jane somehow manages a good compromise.

Mary Jane and her two best friends, Red and Alicia, made a pledge of abstinence during freshman year, becoming charter members of AIA (Abstinence In Action.) So far, Mary Jane’s pledge hasn’t been challenged. Then, she and gorgeous Jackson House make a four-minute trip to replenish pop at a group study date. Jackson dates the most popular and beautiful girl at Attila High, Star Simons, and suddenly the girls in Mary Jane’s social group take sides. When jealous Star spreads accusing rumors, boys begin calling Mary Jane in droves hoping for a hot date. As Mary Jane puts it, “How could seventeen years of my reputation get tossed out for a mythical missing four minutes?”

Ironically, Star’s controlling actions push Mary Jane and Jackson together. Mary Jane is strong-minded and lets Jackson know that she won’t date him on the side; he better have feelings for her and he must break up with Star. He’s a decent guy and really cares for Mary Jane, so they begin dating. He doesn’t pressure her to get into a physical relationship at first. Star’s friends warn her that if she doesn’t give Jackson what he wants, he’ll run back to Star, who will be waiting with open arms.

Jackson eventually plans a date night at his house where there will be no parents home, and Mary Jane is torn, although she does make a shopping trip to Victoria’s Secret. She could use advice from Red and Alicia, but they’ve gone off to college and are both busy with new boyfriends. When she sees them during Thanksgiving break, Alicia has broken her AIA vow and is heartbroken. Red is keeping her pledge, and when she discusses this with Mary Jane, she says, “You know how much (my) boy believes in God.” Red explains that God created sex and knows the situation where we’ll get the most out of it. She also tells Mary Jane that aside from the risks of STDs and pregnancy, sex is emotionally intense and changes a relationship.

When Jackson picks Mary Jane up for the date, she honestly explains her feelings. He’s a little angry at first. She stays strong and says, “What- so sex is a thank you? I owe it to you because you’ve been good to me?” She explains how much she wants to have sex with him, but nurturing the relationship is more important to her. She wants to consider her future. As she talks, she can see Jackson struggling with being disappointed, being relieved, and finally understanding the way she feels. They don’t break up and Mary Jane hopes he’ll still want to date her, but if he doesn’t, she knows she’ll be fine.

The sexuality in the book consists of kissing and one scene where Jackson rolls on top of Mary Jane.

The Christian elements of this book are the church-going Ettermeyers and Mary Jane’s friend, Red. Mary Jane also has a mentally handicapped sister. Mary Jane is supportive of her, never ashamed of her, and involves her sister with her own friends.

What I Like: This is a great conversation-starting book. It’s a page-turner and the story is a realistic interpretation of how students treat each other in high school. Ms. Mackall really nails the drama and rivalry among girls, or as some call it, The Queen Bee Syndrome. Despite the devious things the girls do, the author doesn’t use a bit of foul language. Her writing is funny, upbeat, and hopeful. It’s fun to see the two sides of Mary Jane. Don’t we all waver on our choices like she does?

What I Don't Like: I’d like to see more overt Christianity displayed by Mary Jane’s parents, particularly when they have “the talk.” That being said, keeping this book more mainstream has the advantage of reaching a teen who normally does not read Christian fiction. Although the reader knows the Ettermeyer family is Christian, Mary Jane never specifically states faith as being the reason for her abstinence.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: Young Adult

Publisher Info: Speak 2007; ISBN: 978-0-14-241157-5 ; Paperback $7.50.

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $5.49.

OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $6.99.


Special Info: See reviews of other Dandi Daley Mackall books here.

A Horse of a Different Color

A Horse of a Different Color, by Dandi Daley Mackall, is the fourth novel in the Horsefeathers Series.

Scoop Coop's stable, Horsefeathers, will soon be assessed for property taxes and a meeting with the bank manager leaves Scoop worried that her payments may have to increase substantially. Along comes Benson Thayer, riding his runaway Appaloosa, Diablo. Scoop rescues him from riding into the path of a train, and he asks her to help him tame his horse. Ben is cute and he flatters her when he says she’s known as the teenage horse whisperer. Turns out, Ben’s mother has a local TV show, Della’s Folks, where she showcases local points of interest. Ben will remove his horse from the competing stable next door and leave Diablo at Horsefeathers to be re-trained.

Scoop’s conscience begins bothering her: how much has Maggie, her best friend and stable employee, been over-exaggerating Scoop’s abilities? Maggie seems to be moving a little fast with Ben, though she claims she’s hanging out with him to help get Horsefeathers featured on TV. Ben is leading Maggie into his own bad habits, and she’s constantly cutting work. Scoop is in a dilemma; if she stands up to her friend, she risks losing her stable. Scoop also wants to keep Diablo from being auctioned. She relies on her faith and the support of her aunt Dotty to see her through.

What I Like: The writing is good, although the pace of the story is slow. Horse lovers may enjoy Scoop’s identification of the horse breed a person would be if they were in fact, a horse. There are many equestrian details of interest. Scoop is a very prayerful young lady who constantly questions if she's doing the right things.

What I Dislike: I didn’t like the way Aunt Dotty, Scoop’s guardian, was portrayed. She was the most influential adult character and a strong Christian who used prayer constantly, but she spoke with very poor grammar. Scoop wasn't a realistic teen to me. Her point of view and actions were far more adult-like than her peers and she had the responsibility of running a stable, even though she was in high school. Scoop believes Maggie is making poor choices when Maggie over-exaggerates her ability with horses. While I think it’s important for teens to realize there is a fine line between over-exaggerating and lying, it’s a common behavior and not something I would define as making bad choices. However, when Maggie helps Ben buy beer and cigarettes, she’s already been making poor choices in Scoop’s eyes, so there is no sharp contrast.

Maggie is popular, wants to be an actress, and shows off, so she calls herself Maggie 37 Brown. Apparently, the ending color changes with the color she’s wearing that day. This name seemed silly, unrealistic, and this girl would truly be a target for teasing in most schools.

Overall Rating: Ho Hum

Age Appeal: Young Adult

Publisher Info: Concordia Publishing House; 2000; ISBN: 0570070090; Paperback $5.99.

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Tiny Baby Jesus

In Tiny Baby Jesus, author Dandi Daley Mackall presents us both with a glimpse at Jesus' birth and a peak at what his whole life was about. Written in rhyme, the book begins in not so different a manner than a thousand other children's Christmas books: "Tiny, tiny fingers touch a piece of hay./Tiny baby Jesus born in Bethlehem today." But the next page takes a less expected turn: "Now those very fingers,/grown so sure and strong-/Jesus is a carpenter,/working all day long."

The book continues in this manner, first mentioning Jesus' tiny baby kicks, then how, when his feet were bigger, he walked across the sea; how he cuddled against his mother's shoulder, but later allowed leapers to lean on his shoulders; how his baby mouth was soft and sweet, and later the same mouth spread the Gospel; how his baby eyes were clear and bright, and later saw the needs of mankind and offered them true peace; how baby Jesus reached out for his mother, and how later Jesus passed out bread and wine to his disciples; how once barn animals crowded around him, but later he was alone in a garden, praying. Then:

"Heart as big as heaven - Savior is your name.
Jesus died and rose again - that's why Jesus came.

Tiny gift from heaven,
sent to us on earth.
God's Son wrapped for Christmas
in a miracle of birth."

What I Like: This is a unique way to move beyond the mere telling of Jesus' birth and explain how important his whole life - and death - were. Nice job, Ms. Mackall!
What I Dislike: Although the illustrations by Julia Noonan aren't bad, they aren't terrific, either. Noonan is certainly an experienced illustrator and has worked with many fine children's book authors, but I would have preferred an artist who was more expert at drawing people.
Overall Rating: Very Good.
Age Appeal: 4 - 8.
Publishing Info: Zonderkidz, 2009; ISBN: 978-0310717997; hardback, $16.99
Special Info: Some parents will object that adult Jesus' face is depicted in this book. Check out our other reviews of books by Dandi Daley Mackall.
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An Ali Cat Christmas

In Dandi Daley Mackall's "I Can Read!" Level 1 early reader book, An Ali Cat Christmas, Katy is in love with the trappings of Christmas. She loves to wrap presents, decorate Christmas trees, and open lots of gifts on Christmas morning. On Christmas Eve, Katy, her mom, and her cat (named Ali Cat) drive over to Grandma's house for a visit. Katy isn't all that enthusiastic because Grandma has a tiny, tabletop tree with only a few gifts under it - and she's pretty sure her gift is a pair of socks. "Granny always makes us socks," Katy says.

When it begins snowing, Katy has a grand time outside, but when she learns the snow will prevent them from going home that night, she's sad. It just won't be Christmas without the gifts under their Christmas tree, she thinks.

That night, they read the biblical Christmas story and Katy and Ali Cat fall asleep on the floor - much like Mary and Joseph might have. The next morning, Katy opens her socks. When her mother says the snow will allow them to go home now, Katy says, "Could we stay here longer? Ali Cat and I are having a very merry Christmas!"

Throughout, illustrations by Janet McDonnell bring the story to life.

What I Like: The idea that Christmas is Christmas even without presents is a welcomed one.

What I Dislike: It's unclear why Katy has her change of heart. Before she goes to bed, she's sad to be away from home on Christmas, when she wakes up, she doesn't mind. We never really learn why.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: 4 - 8.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz, 2008; ISBN: 9978-0310717034; paperback, $3.99

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Merry Creature Christmas!

In Merry Creature Christmas, popular children's book author Dandi Daley Mackall tells a simple rhyming tale of some forest animals celebrating Christ's birth. They set up a nativity scene and are ready to party - and the white mare and her friends caution the colt Star not to wake Big Bear from his hibernation.

Yet when Star discovers mistletoe hanging at the opening of Big Bear's cave, he can't resist teasing a little. He yells for Big Bear to wake up and celebrate, but when the creature grumps awake and accidentally kisses Star on the lips, he doesn't look very happy. He charges for the celebrating animals - then surprises them all by smiling and shouting "Happy Creature Christmas!"

"Little Star, Big Bear, and the proud, white mare,
Join the forest creatures dancing everywhere.
All the bluebirds sing, praising Christ the King,
On the night of the Creature Christmas."

A CD of the author reading the text is included with the boardbook.

What I Like: The illustrations by Gene Barretta are engaging and fun. They express lots of emotions from the various forest creatures. The text itself is super-simple, and the combo of great illustrations and simple text make this book a winner for very young children.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 4 - 8, but I'd say this book will appeal more to toddlers and preschoolers.

Publishing Info: Thomas Nelson, 2006; ISBN: 99781400308231; boardbook, $9.99

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Special Info: See our other reviews of books by Dandi Daley Mackall.

The Wonder of Christmas

The Wonder of Christmas by Dandi Daley Mackall, and illustrated by Dave Hill, is a unique representation of the story of Jesus' birth through the eyes of children.

The children in this book are putting on a Christmas pageant, and as they act out their parts they wonder exactly how the angels, shepherds, innkeeper, wise men, and Joseph and Mary felt during the birth of Jesus.

You'll love watching the children prepare for their pageant as they wonder what the angels thought when God announced that He would send His Son to earth as a baby. Backstage, the boy playing the part of Gabriel wonders how the angel Gabriel felt when he gave Mary the glorious news of a virgin birth. The girl playing the part of Mary is contemplative as she sits on the stage:

"I wonder, what did Mary think

When she heard the news about God's own Son?

Could she be the mother of this chosen One?

When she bowed and said, "May Thy will be done,"

I wonder, what did Mary think?

Your child will start to wonder how Joseph felt when he heard the news of Mary's pregnancy, what the couple said to one another on their long trip to Bethlehem, and what the innkeeper thought when he had to tell Joseph and Mary that the inn was full. The book goes on to wonder how the shepherds felt, and what the wise men thought.

At the end of the story, the children begin to think about what they are feeling about the Christmas season, and the miracle of Christ's birth. They feel awe and wonder, and the urge to seek Christ and run to Him:

"I'll be full of wonder as my Christmas starts, and I'll think of Jesus in my heart of hearts."

What I Like: The story of Christ's birth is so familiar to many children, but how often do we really encourage them to think deeply about it? Reading this book will cause a child to look beyond the facts, and actually make them experience the wonder and joy of the Christmas story. The vivid illustrations fit perfectly with this book, and will draw your child in. The reading of this book could lead to a teachable moment, so be prepared!

What I Dislike: The rhyme is awkward in several spots, but it doesn't detract from the charm of the story.

Overall Rating:Very Good.

Age Appeal: ages 4-8, but my 3 year old loved it!

Publisher Info: Concordia Publishing House, 2008; ISBN:0758614993 ; Hardcover $13.49.

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Special Info: We've reviewed other books by Dandi Daley Mackall. Check them out here.

Jazz Off-Key

Jazz Off-Key, a chapter book written by prolific author Dandi Daley Mackall, is part of the Zonderkidz FaithGirlz series of books. This is a series of books especially for girls.

This book is also part of the Blog On series, a series of stories about a group of five girls who get together once a week to plan and discuss the blog they have created – hence the name of the series. Each book in the series features a member of the group. This particular book is about Jazz (Jasmine) Fletcher.

Jazz has anger management issues. She seems to be angry about something nearly all the time. Even though she believes in God, and she prays about things, when her sister inadvertently ruins her paintings and jeopardizes her first chance at having her art exhibited, God seems very far away and her anger is too much for her to control.

Jazz’s passion is art. She loves to draw and paint and do sculptures. When the owner of a local art supply store asks her if she would like to exhibit her art at his open house, she jumps at the chance. She shows her sister Kendra the paintings she wants to exhibit; Kendra says they need more color. While Jazz isn’t home, Kendra “repaints” Jazz’s artwork orange and red. Kendra has Down’s Syndrome and thinks she’s doing a good thing. She doesn’t understand she has ruined her sister’s work.

Jazz is an artist, so she writes a cartoon for the group’s blog. She also shares her problems with her friends. When she tells them about her ruined paintings, they all try to help her come up with ways to salvage the show. In the end, Jazz learns the importance of family and forgiveness, and she develops a closer relationship with God.

For a little background on the series, a brief bio and description of each girl is provided at the end of the story.

The Bible verse, 2 Corinthians 4:18 is given as a reference: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

What I Like: The characters in this series seem very real. They’re the types of characters readers can relate to.

What I Dislike: At one point in the story, Jazz’s friend, Storm, suggests the two of them break into the local elementary school to retrieve a couple of paintings Jazz did years ago that are kept in a supply closet there. They don’t have to break pick any locks or break any windows to get into the building as one window is unlocked. But, still, they are doing something illegal. Storm is able to talk her way out of trouble when a security guard catches them in the act. I’m unhappy with this scene because it makes it look likes it’s all right to enter buildings that are supposed to be locked up. They had a good reason for doing so, and they did it for a good cause, but they still did something illegal and there were no real consequences for the act. I think that sets a bad example for young readers.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: 9-12.

Publisher Info: Zonderkidz, 2007; ISBN: 0310712653; Paperback, $6.99.

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Special Info: Visit the author’s website. Read our reviews of other books written by Dandi Daley Mackall.

Horse Angels

"I sought the Lord and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. . . The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them." Psalm 34:4, 7

This passage illuminates the lesson that "Scoop" (Sarah Coop) learns in Horse Angels, book five in Dandi Daley Mackall's Horsefeathers series. The reference to the "angel of the LORD" provides one reason for the title. The other reason is obvious when Scoop teaches her horses to roll in the snow and make horse versions of snow angels. Dandi Daley Mackall is a prolific author who began riding horses at age three. Her Horsefeathers books are full of horse facts, as well as biblical truth. Her description of horses making snow angels is vivid, and if anyone has seen it done, I am sure she has.

Horse Angels begins on Halloween, when someone sets a fire outside Scoop's stable, Horsefeathers. Fearing for her horses, she races to the scene and realizes only hay bales are on fire, and the horses are safe. This anonymous prank, coupled with a bad fall when Cheyenne, (one of the wilder horses) rears, sends Scoop into a spiral of negative "what if" thinking. Trust is already hard for Scoop, who was adopted at three, but lost both adoptive parents in a factory explosion a few years later.

As Halloween ends, and Fall stretches towards Thanksgiving and Scoop's birthday, she wonders whether her friends like her, she worries God won't provide for her, and she fears her best friend is using drugs, all while weathering a terrible blizzard. Just as Scoop struggles to trust God, she has a hard time making Cheyenne trust her. Scoop's attempts to "gentle" Cheyenne mirror God's attempts to instill trust in Scoop.

The climax of the novel occurs when Scoop, with her manic-depressive little brother, B.C., sets off in search of Jen, Scoop's best friend and Cheyenne's owner. Their search leads them through a blinding blizzard to the Dalton farm. The Daltons are rich horse owners, who rely more on technology and hired help than their hearts when training horses. Scoop is desperate to warm up B.C. and get help for Jen, who was injured when Cheyenne slid in the snow.

Believing no one was home at the Dalton residence, Scoop breaks in, receiving a hard knock on the head from Stephen Dalton, her 13-year-old cousin. Relieved to be inside the home, despite her bruise, Scoop, B.C. and Jen wait out the storm on Thanksgiving Eve with Stephen. They keep the fire going, battle bats and attempt to bake a birthday cake for Scoop and a Thanksgiving turkey. Unfortunately, the power goes out and Scoop discovers pills in Jen's coat pocket. Scoop also learns all of her friends are gathered for a surprise party in her honor on the other side of town, explaining their strange behavior earlier, and allaying Scoop's fear they don't really like her.

Eventually, Scoop learns the truth from Jen. She is in the later stages of kidney failure, but is trying to hide the seriousness of her condition from her mom and brothers. Jen is afraid to face surgery and afraid to ask one of her brothers to donate a kidney. Her fear of dying and surgery are eased by a poignant story B.C. tells, quoting his aunt comparing death to birth. This story is illustrated when one of the mares in the Dalton stables goes into labor. Scoop is forced to help the foal turn, so both front legs and it's nose will emerge first. Witnessing the birth makes Jen more determined to live, and makes Scoop realize God is with her.

Shortly after the birth, Scoop, her brother, Jen and Stephen are rescued. They all experience a release from fear and a renewed trust in God. Scoop says, "God flooded my mind with His words, a passage from Psalm 27, "The Lord is my light and my salvation--whom shall I fear?" Suddenly the fears that had plagued me since Halloween melted like snowflakes in sunshine."

What I Like: I love the fact that there are great dramatic novels for Christian teens to read. Many junior high and high school girls love series of books, especially when there are enough horses and dramatic situations involved. Mackall knows how to weave an interesting, compelling story with characters we really care about. She also knows enough about horses to write authentically. I think many Christian girls would find non-Christian friends would enjoy these books, too.

I especially like the premise of Horse Angels. Mackall acknowledges bad things happen, even to Christians. (Scoop says her friend Jen is the best Christian she knows, yet she still is diagnosed with the kidney disease nephritis.) She also shows us how even Christians can struggle with "what if" thinking. (I certainly can.) But through it all, Mackall points us to God's care and provision and we realize He will be with us no matter what. As B.C. paraphrases his aunt, "She says Jesus wouldn't have died for our sins like that on the cross just to be raised up so we could join Him in a scary place. He did all that so we could be forgiven and go to heaven. And in heaven, He's making mansions bigger than the Dalton's mansion. So that's a mighty fine place to be born when we die."

The book also includes a couple of pages of Foaling Facts at the end, which are very informative. I learned a lot about how horses have babies.

What I Dislike: The characters and set-up of Horse Angels are very similar to Mackall's Winnie the Horse Gentler series. Winnie and Scoop have both lost at least one parent, are experts at gentling horses, and are awkward around peers. Their voices sound similar, and they each run a stable to gentle horses in competition with the more high-tech stable across town. However, I don't think most teens will mind, and they may even find comfort in the predictability of similar heroines and situations.

The only other thing I don't like is a plot detail. Jen was supposed to take Scoop with her to Dalton stables to distract her while everyone else got ready for Scoop's surprise party. However, Scoop forgot and was in the tub, and by the time she realized Jen was missing and she would have to go after her, the blizzard was already beginning. Apparently, Jen left without Scoop, but she had to get her horse from Scoop's stable. It seems logical to me that Jen would have stopped by the house to collect Scoop, before starting out, but Scoop says, "It would have been just like Jen to be so stubborn about getting the library book from Stephen, she would have set out for it without me." This makes sense, but not if Jen was to keep Scoop occupied so she wouldn't find out about the party. A minor detail, but still confusing.

Overall Rating: Very Good

Age Appeal: 12-16

Publisher Info: Concordia Publishing House, 2000; ISBN: 978-0-570-07086-3 ; Paperback, $5.99

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Special Information: Check out our reviews of other Dandi Daley Mackall books here.