God Made You Beautiful!

God Made You Beautiful! was written by Stephanie Farley from the perspective of a young girl. This girl likes to play dress-up for tea parties or to pretend to be a princess, but her mommy reminds her that she is beautiful just the way she is. The book goes on to say that we don't need fancy clothes to be beautiful; that we're all different and that we're all beautiful in God's eyes. He made us just the way He wants us to be, right down to the placement of each freckle.

Several of the pages include Scripture quotations to support the book's message. Bible references are provided with each.

Lisa Powell Braun's illustrations are delightful, filled with fresh colors that appeal to young girls.. The characters have really sweet faces, too.

What I Like: This book offers a great message for girls! I appreciate the positive, uplifting tone of the book. I really like the illustrations.

What I Dislike: While I appreciate the inclusion of Scripture quotations, many of these passages are taken completely out of context. Three of them are from 1 Corinthians 12, which is a passage about the church, not physical bodies as the author implies. Another is from Song of Solomon which is a book about marital love, not an encouragement to young girls' self-esteem.

Also, the price is way too high. I realize competitive pricing is an inherent problem with self-publishing, and I wish it weren't so. Regardless, I can't justify paying $13 for just 12 pages of text.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: 4-8

Publisher Info: Xulon Press, 2010; ISBN: 1609578260; Paperback; 12 pages, $12.99

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Abundant Christmas

In Abundant Christmas, written by Sherry Bach, Callahan wants to figure out how to capture the good feelings of the Christmas season and make them last all year.

He has to do a journalism project for school, so his mom suggests he interview some people to find out what they like best about the Christmas season. He could then compile the data and write his report about his findings.

That’s what he decides to do. He does such a good job on his report that his teacher wants to enter it into several writing contests and help him get it published.

What I Like: There are some advanced vocabulary words used throughout the text. These words are marked with super-script numbers and then their definitions are included in a glossary at the end of the book.

What I Dislike: The writing is a bit weak, the dialogue is somewhat stilted, and there are several typos throughout the text.

Also, Callahan has an older sister named Callie. I found that odd, because when I first started reading the story, I thought Callie was just a nickname for Callahan. Then I realized Callie was a separate character. It might be different if Callie and Callahan were twins, but they’re not.

And, even though Callahan writes an excellent paper on the subject of what people like about Christmas, the reader is never told what discoveries Callahan makes.

And, there is only one mention of religion in the book, when Callahan tells his friend about something he learned in Church. There is no mention of Jesus’ birth or the real meaning of Christmas.

Overall Rating: Ho hum.

Age Appeal: 9-12.

Publisher Info: Publish America, 2009; ISBN: 9781448991204; Paperback, 41 pages, $16.95.

Buy now at Amazon.com $16.95!

Special Info: Visit the author’s website.

Oscar the Christmas Kitten

Oscar got lost just a few weeks before Christmas. His human family searched all over for him, hanging many posters around town with his photo and their phone number on them in hopes someone would see him and call them.

About three weeks after his disappearance that’s just what happened: A woman found Oscar and called the number on a poster. Oscar was reunited with his family just before the holidays.

Oscar the Christmas Kitten: A Story of Hope, written by Robert and Beverly Kynor, is a true story. The bright illustrations by Michael Martinez compliment the text.

What I Like: This is a true story and it’s written from the heart. Also, the language level is good for younger kids with its many easy words and repetition.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: FHL Publishing, LLC, 2010; ISBN: 9780982708705; Hardcover, $16.95.

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Christmas Around the World

Did you know that in some German homes, a glass pickle is hidden in the branches of the Christmas trees? Did you know that "Merry Christmas" in Lebanese is Meelad majeed? Christmas Around the World, by Brenda Trunkhill, and illustrated by Jeff Carnehl, is full of interesting information just like that.

This book shows how children in Latin America, the Caribbean Islands, Africa, the British Isles, Europe, Russia, Asia, the Middle East,the Mediterranean, the United States and Canada celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Each page spread is replete with colorful photographs and illustrations. For each country, children will get to read an illustrated description of how Christmas is celebrated, and what is eaten during the holiday season. There is a fun craft to do, and children will also find out how to say "Merry Christmas" in that country. Lastly, prayer needs are given. For example, in Latin America:

"Many people in these countries do not regularly attend worship services. Pray that more families in these countries would go to church and believe that Jesus is the Light of the World. (John 1:5)"

What I Like: I like everything about this book. Not only is it great to have on the shelf at home, it would be a perfect book to share in Sunday School if you are a teacher.

What I Dislike: Nothing! This is a great resource.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 5-12

Publisher Info: Concordia Publishing House, 2009; ISBN: 0758617577; Paperback, 30 PGS., $9.99

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Halfway Herbert

Francis Chan is the bestselling author of Crazy Love. That message of loving God with your whole heart (based on Matthew 22:13) is now packaged for kids in Chan's first children's book, Halfway Herbert.

Herbert Hallweg never gives his whole heart to anything. He combs only half of his hair, brushes only half of his teeth, does only half of his homework, eats only half of his food and tries during only half of his soccer games. One day after tying only one of his shoes and walking halfway up a big hill, Herbert jumps on his bike and starts pedaling. His untied shoelace then gets caught in the spokes and he crashes right into his dad's car.

When his dad notices the dented car, Herbert tells a half-truth, then when found out, tries to defend himself. "I said I didn't see anyone crash into your car, and that's true. I had my eyes closed!" His father explains that "Only telling half the truth is a whole lie."

Herbert's dad lovingly points him to the Bible and explains that we should follow Jesus with our whole hearts and total devotion. God knows none of us can love Him all the way by ourselves; that's why He gives us the Holy Spirit to help. Herbert isn't sure he can do it, but prays toward that end. Herbert isn't perfect and he still makes mistakes, but he tries really hard and he trusts God's Spirit to help him. He has never been happier.

The author includes a note to parents at the back of the book.

The illustrations by Matt Daniels feature lots of color, style and unique details.

What I Like: My kids love this book and so do I! It's clever. More importantly, it is solidly founded on biblical truth and teaches that truth in a clear way that encourages personal application. Kids get it and they know how to implement it into their own lives. Matthew 22:37 is printed at the end of the story making it an easy memory verse. I also really like the illustrations.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8

Publisher Info: David C. Cook, 2010; ISBN: 0781404185; Hardback, 36 pages; $12.99

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Special Info: Visit the Crazy Love website to learn more about the author and watch inspirational videos based on the book's content.

Gingerbread from the Heart

When Grandma’s usual holiday activities are put on hold because she has a bad knee, her three grandchildren want to do something to cheer her up.

They decide to make gingerbread houses and enlist mom’s help to buy the ingredients, bake the bread, and supervise construction.

Each finished house is different: one is nearly perfect, looking like it came from the pages of a fairy tale; one is a crooked little house made with graham crackers; and one is a gingerbread beach hut. When the kids ask grandma which one she likes best, she says she likes all of them the best, but for different reasons. “Each of your houses is different but they are special in their own way. Just like each of you are special and wonderful to me.”

The author of Gingerbread from the Heart, Janie K. Mineer, includes a recipe and directions for making gingerbread houses.

The watercolor illustrations by Misty Z. Danyo are colorful and expressive and fit the text perfectly.

What I like: Just about everything.

What I Dislike: There is no mention of Jesus’ birth or any other religious aspect of the season even though it seems pretty clear the story is meant for a Christian audience. The illustrator dedicates her book, in part, to Jesus Christ, and the last line of the story is, “She decided that one of the best things about Christmas was making people smile.”

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: Blue Meadow Books, 2009; ISBN: 9781591520634; Hardcover, $16.95.

Buy now at Amazon.com $13.22!

Special Info: A portion of the proceeds from sales of this book will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities.

The Story of Christmas

The Story of Christmas is a beautifully-illustrated, imaginative retelling of the story of Christmas, designed for children ready for a more complete narrative of the birth of Christ. Stephanie Jeffs stays very true to the Gospel accounts found in Matthew and Luke, but she does include details, such as Mary sweeping the floor when the angel appeared, or beads of sweat sparkling on the busy innkeeper's forehead, to allow children to visualize the story better.

The book begins with the angel's announcement to Mary, and continues through Mary, Joseph and Jesus' escape to Egypt.

John Hayson's watercolor illustrations are bright and realistic, and depict Mary, Joseph and Jesus as a Middle Eastern family. Hayson is particularly skilled at portraying wonder and joy on the faces of all who encounter Christ.

What I Like: I really like the illustrations. They give us a sense of actually being there, and Hayson's use of color, light and facial expressions will appeal to readers of all ages.

I also liked the details Jeffs includes about the feelings Mary may have had. It is easy to take her for granted, but she really was an amazing young woman.

I appreciate the book's historical accuracy. Especially, Jesus is depicted as an adorable two-year-old at the time of the Wise Mens' visit.

What I Dislike: Nothing, although my oldest daughter pointed out all the passages not included in the biblical accounts of the birth of Jesus. I had to remind her it was similar to historical fiction.

Overall Rating: Very good

Age Appeal: 4-7

Publisher Info: Concordia Publishing House, 2005; ISBN: 978-0-7586-2542-7; Hardcover, 32 pages, $12.99

Buy it at Amazon.com for $11.04.

Anne of Green Gables

No matter how many times I read it, Anne of Green Gables makes me laugh out loud, get tears in my eyes, and breathe audible sighs of relief. L.M. Montgomery's turn-of-the-century tale about a red-headed orphan with a fiery temper and a wild imagination is timeless in it's charm and appeal. Montgomery's spot-on characterization, coupled with her delightful descriptions of Canada's Prince Edward Island make Anne of Green Gables a pleasure to read over and over again.

When shy Matthew Cuthbert heads to the train station to pick up a boy to live with him and his sister and help with chores, he never imagines he will be driving home with an eccentric, talkative young girl. He immediately finds a place for her in his heart, but strict, taciturn Marilla isn't so sure she is up for raising a girl. Anne quickly wins her over too, and we realize, as the story progresses, how much Marilla cherishes Anne, for all her harsh ways.

Anne is always getting into scrapes, and needing help to get out of them, but Marilla's firm guidance, Matthew's adoration, and the love of her teacher and the minister's wife all combine to teach Anne to be a wonderful, responsible and diligent young lady. The book ends with Matthew's death, which always makes me cry. However, the last sentence of the book, Anne says, "God's in His Heaven and all's right with the world."

If you have young girls in your life who haven't started the Anne books, Christmas would be a perfect time to introduce them to the series. The books follow Anne's life from the time she was adopted by Matthew and Marilla at twelve, through her time at teacher's college, teaching in various schools, marriage, and the birth of her own children. Many of the books highlight Christmas and winter, as well as other seasons and holidays throughout the years.

What I Like: Everything!

Particularly, it is such a joy to read an old classic and realize how central faith in Christ was to authors and their characters. There is a funny scene where Marilla asks Anne to say her prayers, and is horrified when Anne proceeds to address God in a business-letter format. There is also a delightful section where Anne speaks of the minister's wife and says, "I never knew before that religion was such a cheerful thing. . . I'd like to be a Christian if I could be one like her. . . I can just feel she's glad she's a Christian and would be one even if she could get to Heaven without it."

What I Dislike: Nothing

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 8 and up

Publisher Info: Random House, 1908 (reprint 1998); ISBN: 978-0553609-417; Paperback, 497 pages, $47.92 (Box set of all eight volumes)

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Bartholomew's Passage: A Family Story for Advent

The season of Advent will begin in just a few weeks. Written by master storyteller Arnold Ytreeide, Bartholomew's Passage is a tool for whole families to together tune their hearts for the season.

The book's introduction details various Advent traditions and a calendar at the back of the book tells when Advent starts each year for the next several decades. The main part of the book is then divided into chapters that include a portion of Bartholomew's story followed by a short devotional. The author has designated one chapter, about 4-6 pages, for each day leading up to Christmas.

Bartholomew, a ten-year-old Jewish boy, has a good life. He lives with his mother, father and siblings in a small fishing village. But one day everything changes. Romans ransack the village destroying homes and lives. Survivors are taken prisoner and then sold as slaves throughout the Roman Empire. Bartholomew ends up in Caesarea, a house servant to a wicked, merciless man. When Bartholomew makes a mistake in the presence of his master, he is sentenced to have his hands cut off. When the moment arrives, however, Bartholomew flees. Cornered by soldiers in a public square, Bartholomew expects the worst, but an eccentric man in fools' clothing comes to his rescue. Once safe, the boy must decide if he can truly trust this stranger or not.

The stranger's name is Nathan. He takes Bartholomew into his care and together the two fugitives make a journey toward freedom and safety. Along the way they encounter many trials and adventures, each an opportunity for Bartholomew to learn more about the promised Messiah, a Savior for all people. Their journey reaches its end and apex with a reunion in Bethlehem at an historically optimal time.

The devotions that follow each segment of the story offer personal application for knowing God and daily walking with Him. They repeatedly remind readers that the relationships we can now enjoy with God are possible only because of Jesus.

What I Like: This is a fantastic concept! I love celebrating Advent, but too often the traditions focus only on the adults or only on the children. This is a great way to involve the whole family. The story is beautifully written, engaging and exciting for children and adults alike.

I really like the bonus material as well. The author was very thorough in planning this book! The Advent customs section is wonderful, as well as the calendars at the back. Advent always starts on a Sunday, but Christmas is not always on the same day, so the author provided a detailed plan for the last week that will allow families to get the whole story even on years with shorter weeks.

What I Dislike: One of the devotions claims that God "can't" always help us. "He has no control over some of the storms and tragedies we face." While the point of the section emphasizes free will and personal responsibility, this assertion clearly denies God's sovereignty and massive power. Contrary to what the text suggests, there is no problem too big for God; He is always in control and always capable of coming to our rescue, no matter what we have done or the mess we've gotten ourselves into.

Very few of the devotions include Scripture quotations or references. I would have preferred a stronger Bible presence in the book. Also, the last week of devotions only offer a question to consider. One questions whether or not angels are real. If the adults in the family do not have strong spiritual convictions based on Scriptural truth, these questions could lead to confusion or ambiguous speculation rather than clarity, especially with children.

While I enjoyed Bartholomew's story, I struggled to see how most of the chapters and their accompanying devotions applied to Christmas. Families could theoretically read through this book at any time of the year and receive the same encouragement. The ending excepted, the lessons were rarely specific to the holiday season, but rather applied to general truths that resulted from Jesus' life and death.

Finally, and this is the most minor of issues, the story would be filled with realistic details in one moment and the next moment a character would start doing backflips and cartwheels all over the town square in cartoon-like style. A few chapters later, the acrobatic character becomes weary and breathless running a straight path. I felt the story flipped (no pun intended) in and out of realism.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: 7 and up

Publisher Info: Kregel Publications, 2009; ISBN: ; Paperback; 175 pages; $13.99

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Special Info: This book is intended for use by whole families, but parents of younger children should use discretion. Some details of the story could be troublesome for sensitive hearts and minds. The first chapter opens with blood splattering from a butcher's cleaver; another details a man being whipped and an insolent child being drug by a soldier's horse. Each chapter ends with a dramatic cliffhanger, some of which may not be the best fodder for "sweet dreams" immediately after reading.

Visit the author's website for more information about him and his other titles, including other family stories for Advent.

My First Countdown to Christmas

Do you remember how hard it was to wait for Christmas when you were a kid? In an effort to help the time pass more quickly, Dr. Mary Manz Simon's My First Countdown to Christmas offers not only the true story of the first Christmas, but also activities and prayers to help the days pass more quickly.

Each two page spread of this board book features a short devotional. Some of them tell a part of the story of Jesus' birth, while others discuss popular Christmas things like evergreen Christmas trees, bells, and cookies. Many pages also offer ideas for simple projects, like an Advent paper chain, homemade Christmas tree decorations, or figuring out a way to tell someone "I love you" without speaking the words. A short, simple prayer is also included for each spread, often with blanks for kids to fill in. For example, "The shepherds told people about Jesus. I can tell people about Jesus, too. I can tell --------. Amen." A paraphrased Bible verse is also included with each devotional.

Throughout, bright, colorful illustrations by Siobhan Harrison show young children of many ethnicities involved in Christmas activities like visiting relatives, using an Advent calendar, decorating the tree, and dancing and singing.

What I Like: Pretty much everything. Each devotional is short and simple - perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. I like the simple suggested activities and I appreciate the focus on Jesus as "the reason for the season.

What I Dislike: My only complaint is that while Jesus is spoken of as the reason we celebrate Christmas (indeed, the author states "Jesus was born at Christmas" - not entirely accurate, but probably passable for young kids), the author doesn't tell us why he's important. We don't learn he's the son of God or that he came to save us from our sins. This is left for parents to bring up.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 4 to 8, but I think the book is much too simple for most of that age group. I'd say it's much more appropriate for toddlers and preschoolers.

Publishing Info: Scholastic, 2009; ISBN: 978-0545165099; board book, 26 pgs., $9.99.

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Special Info: Read our reviews of other books by this author.

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.

Angels, Angels Everywhere

Angels, Angels Everywhere, written by Larry Libby, is an updated and revised version of a previously published book titled Somewhere Angels. Each two page spread poses a question about angels and then expounds with an answer. The questions asked include:

• Do angels know where we are?
• Why can't we see angels?
• What do angels look like?
• Will I be an angel when I die?
• How do angels get to Earth from Heaven?
• Do angels deliver messages?
• Do you and I have a special angel?
• Where are angels when we need them?
• Did Jesus have guardian angels?
• What is the Good News angels hear in Heaven?
• Can we praise God with the angels?
• Do angels worship God?
• What can we learn from the angels?
• Will angels take me to Heaven?

Each answer is founded on Scriptural truths. Many include stories from the Bible of encounters with angels, such as that of Elijah, Daniel and the Apostle Paul.

The illustrations by Corbert Gauthier appear to be oil paintings. They are realistic and brilliant, filled with light and color.

What I Like: I love this book! It is wonderfully organized and answers the questions accurately and with age-appropriate clarity. Unlike many other books about supernatural beings, the author does not speculate or rely on legends. He offers answers founded solidly on Scripture. The illustrations are gorgeous. My kids really like this book, too. The content has sparked some wonderful conversations about angels and truth, questions I didn't realize my kids had.

What I Dislike: I noticed at least one mistake (typo) in the text. My biggest concern, though, is that Bible references are not given for the stories. They are provided in ample supply for direct quotes, but never for the many re-told stories from the Scripture. One story that particularly interested my daughter didn't even list the prophet's name, so I haven't a clue about where to look for the biblical account. I would have appreciated an index of stories or even footnotes.

Overall Rating: Excellent. Even with the the "dislikes" listed above, I cannot recommend this book more enthusiastically.

Age Appeal: 4-8

Publisher Info: ZonderKidz, 2003; ISBN: 0310703425; Hardback; 30 pages; $12.99

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Special Info: See our reviews of other books by this author and other books with this illustrator.

And the winners are ...

According to random.org, the winners of the FREE tote bags are ...

Canadianladybug

Christina Carter

and

Inspired Kathy!

CONGRATULATIONS! If you ladies will kindly email your shipping address to tanyasue (at) gmail.com, I will get your tote bags on their way. If I don't hear from you within a week, I'll select another winner in your place.

THANK YOU to everyone who entered! If you didn't win, remember you can always purchase these bags and other Christian Children's Book Review items from our CCBR Shop.

Betty Greene: Flying High / David Livingstone: Courageous Explorer

Betty Greene: Flying High, and David Livingstone: Courageous Explorer, are two books in a series by YMAM Publishing called Heroes for Young Readers.

Betty Greene: Flying High is the story of Betty Greene, a female pilot. Betty began her flying career in WWII when the military recruited women for the Air Force. They did not fly combat missions, but they helped train other pilots by dragging targets behind their planes that the other pilots could shoot at. Betty also did test flights for new aircraft.

When her unit was disbanded, Betty joined other pilots to form a group called the MAF, Missionary Aviation Fellowship. These pilots flew missionaries to and from places around the world. Betty flew into places like Mexico, Peru, Nigeria and New Guinea. She faced some dangerous situations while doing so, but she persevered because she believed she was doing God’s work. Although Betty died in 1997, the MAF is still in existence.

David Livingstone: Courageous Explorer is the story of the famous missionary doctor in Africa. Livingstone was the first white man to enter many parts of Africa. Everywhere he went he touched peoples’ lives with his gifts of both medicine and God’s word. He faced many dangers on the Dark Continent, including being attacked by a lion.

David grew up in Scotland. He was fascinated with science and wanted to learn everything he could about the subject. His Christian father forbade him to read science books because his father thought if you were a Christian you shouldn’t learn science. But, his grandfather approved of the subject and lent David books in secret whenever he could. After hearing a missionary speak about the need for doctors in foreign lands, David felt the call to be both a doctor and a missionary. When he told his father about his feelings, his father allowed David to attend med school. When he received his medical degree, David left his Scottish homeland to go to Africa.

Both books were written by Renee Taft Meloche and are written in rhyming verse.

Both books were illustrated by Bryan Pollard. His vivid, painted illustrations work well with the storylines.

What I Like: I like biographies, particularly ones that are in a series designed for young readers.

What I Dislike: As mentioned, the text of both books is in rhyme. Although it says on the backs of the books, “..children love the captivating rhyming poems… of the Heroes for Young Readers series,” I must say I found the rhyme to be distracting. It wasn’t rhythmic; it was rather jarring.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: YWAM Publishing, 2004; Hardcover, $6.99.
Betty Greene ISBN: 1576582396. David Livingstone ISBN: 9781576582381.

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Christmas Stories for Bedtime

If you’re looking for an engaging and informative book to help your child understand and celebrate Christmas, check out Christmas Stories for Bedtime, written by Renae Brumbaugh and illustrated by David Miles. The book contains thirty-one kid-friendly stories that begin with Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah and then go chronologically through the rest of the Christmas story up through the visit from the Magi. Chapters are presented in the following format: A short passage of Scripture, a story rooted in the verses provided, a prayer, and either a quote or segment of a carol related to the story. For example, the chapter called “Trust and Obey” opens with Scripture from Luke 2:4-5 and then describes Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. The prayer ties into the story and children’s own experience by stating (paraphrased), “Dear Father, sometimes I have to do things I don’t want to do… Help me to have a sweet attitude. Help me to trust you, even when I don’t understand.” The chapter ends with a portion of the Christmas carol O Little Town of Bethlehem.
Colorful illustrations frame each page and present a nice ethnic mixture of people. Each chapter has its own colored border, which lends a sense of harmony to it.

What I Like: Each well-written, bite-sized chapter provides a perfect amount of Christmas material for youngsters to savor before sleep. The prayers not only help children connect each story to their own lives, but also draw a life application from it. Both the Scripture and the quotes help make each chapter a cohesive unit--something I appreciate as a teacher. And the illustrations are simply ADORABLE. I wish this product had been available when my kids were younger. I would have purchased it in a heartbeat!

What I Dislike: Nothing

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 4-8

Publisher Info: Barbour Books, 2010; ISBN: 9781602606524; Paperback, 192 PGS., $5.99.

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Special Info:
Visit this author's website.
Visit this illustrator's website.
Read CCBR reviews of other books by this author.

Barnabas Goes Swimming

Barnabas Goes Swimming, written and illustrated by Royden Lepp, is an easy-to-read book about friendship. Barnabas Bear and Russell Raccoon want to go swimming, but they don’t want to go by themselves. They ask their friends, Peter Pig and Prickly Paul, to go with them, but their friends are too busy to join them.

When they get to the water, they find Gary Gator sitting on the bank looking very sad. He can’t swim by himself because it’s not safe. So, Barnabas and Russell ask Gary to join him. The three swim together happily for a while before Peter and Paul ask if they can join in the fun, too. When they do, Barnabas prays, “Dear God, thank you for summer days and good friends.”

The cartoon-like illustrations, done in light, muted colors, are very kid-friendly.

This Bible verse is given as a reference for the story: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” [Psalm 118:24]

What I Like: The easy-to-read style has short sentences and lots of repetition, making it ideal for new readers.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: Zonderkidz, 1980; ISBN: 0310715849; Paperback, $3.99.

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Special Info: This book is part of the Zonderkidz I Can Read! series. It is on the My First Shared Reading level, which according to the publisher means it is “ideal for sharing with emergent new readers.” Read our reviews of other books in the I Can Read! series. Visit the author’s blog.

Facing the Facts: The Truth about Sex and You

Finding a suitable sex ed book for kids is difficult. But finding an accurate sex ed book upholding biblical values? That's almost impossible. Fortunately for Christian parents, Stan and Brenna Jones offer a whole series of sex ed books that have won the Christian Book Award. Book 4 in their series, targeted to young teens, is called Facing the Facts: The Truth About Sex and You.

The book begins by answering the questions "Why and How did God make men and women different?" Here you'll find scientifically based descriptions of how a boy or girl's body changes at puberty. There are textbook-like line drawings of the organs (male and female, including breasts), and complete coverage of all the basics, from getting a period to experiencing wet dreams. Another chapter deals with how women become pregnant, a little bit about the gestation of a baby, and the basic facts about birth. Although all this basic information can be found in any mainstream sex ed book, the authors of Facing the Facts make their book different by explaining Gods design in all these facts.

Next, the authors cover the topic of abstinence before marriage. They write that abstinence is the only way to absolutely not catch sexually transmitted diseases, and that it's also the way to "show God you love Him by obeying Him." In addition, they write, remaining abstinent before marriage gives the greatest honor and respect for the "purpose and meaning" of sex. The authors list some lies kids might hear about why abstinence is bad - or even not do-able - along with reasons why those myths aren't true.

Dating is covered pretty extensively, and the authors urge kids to decide long before they ever date just "how far" they are willing to go. This way, they say, kid are less likely to make a mistake in "the heat of the moment." This chapter also advises kids to only date Christians (so they won't be "unequally yoked," 2 Cor. 6:14) and what the true test of love is (time). The authors suggest kids younger than 16 date only in a group setting. Petting or touching is also discussed in detail. The authors conclude that while the Bible doesn't expressly talk about petting (giving historical reasons why this is so), Jesus says anyone who even looks lustfully at a woman he's not married to is committing a great sin. (Matt. 5:28) Petting creates or feeds lust, the authors say, and therefore should be avoided by Christians. In addition, they write, petting can lead to sexual intercourse with people hardly realizing what's happening.

Next the authors cover tough issues like peer pressure, pornography (sinful because it feeds lust, among other things), cybersex and cyberdating (dangerous), cohabitation before marriage (sinful and statistically harmful to a future marriage), masterbation, broken families, homosexuality, and handling a public school education sex ed class that is "discouraging" to Christian students.

The final chapter encourages kids to walk with God and obey him in all things - including their sexuality.

What I Like: This book is solidly biblical and easy to read. The authors are not judgmental, but neither are they afraid to write about what the Bible has to say on controversial subjects like homosexuality (the author concludes it's a sin, according to the Bible, and studies show genetics play a very minor role in it) and masturbation (which isn't forbidden in the Bible, but if it makes you lust after the opposite sex, they authors write, it's a sin). In addition, the authors don't boss kids around. Instead, they make suggestions about what kids might choose to do.
What I Dislike: This isn't really a "dislike," but more of a caution to parents. Read this (or any other sex ed book) before giving it to your kids, then carefully and prayfully decide if it's right for their personal level of maturity. My kids are 5 and under, so it's hard for me to imagine they'll be ready to learn, at age 11, that sex feels good and what oral sex is. But maybe they will be. In today's world, it's difficult to shield kids from sex and I very much want to be at least one of the first people they learn about such things from. ("Why does this book discuss oral sex?" you wonder? Because the authors know many kids are experimenting with it in order to avoid unwanted pregnancy. Unfortunately, as the authors point out, even oral sex has it's problems.)

In addition, it would have been so very helpful if the authors had included a list of biblical references about sex. For example, a list of verses or sections about homosexuality would greatly back up their assertions that the Bible says it's a sin.
Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: The publisher's suggested age range is 11 to 14, but every kid is different and not all will be mature enough at 11 to read this book. On the other hand, I think parents need to carefully consider whether or not their kids will be exposed to this information - presented in a secular way - at school, among friends, and from media - at that age.

Publishing Info: NavPress, 2007; ISBN: 978-1600060151; paperback, 128 pgs., $11.99

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Special Info: Check out our other reviews of other sex ed books in this series.