Thank You, God, for Kittens/Thank You, God, for Puppies

Toddlers love animals - especially animals they often see in their everyday lives - like cats and dogs. And with charming illustrations by Tammie Lyon and sweet rhyming text by Mary Manz Simon, two new board books are sure to please them. Thank You, God, for Kittens and Thank You, God, for Puppies are perhaps perfect if you have a cat or dog in your home, but are equally welcome if you don't.

"Kitty, kitty, I love you./I love all the things you do," begins the kitten book. Then each page features something cats do, like play with string, take naps, run to their food dish, hide in bags, sit on books, climb trees, purr, etc. The last page reads: "You're a blessing, it is true./I thank God each day for you."

The puppy book is very much the same format, except it features things more typical to dogs, including tail thumping, catching balls, chewing bones, shaking water off their bodies, and more.


What I Like: Simon's writing, as always, is solid. Although rhyming books are difficult to do well, Simon is a master at them. Tammie Lyon's illustrations are a perfect match for the text, featuring children of different ethnicities playing with cats or dogs. Both the author and illustrator do an excellent job making these books perfect for very young children.

What I Dislike: Nothing. But parents may want to know that the only mention of God is on the last page of each book, where the text reads "I thank God each day for you."

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: Infant - preschool.

Publishing Info: Ideals, 2015; ISBN 978-0824919627 (Kittens) 978-0824919610 (Puppies); board books, 20 pgs., $6.99

Buy at Amazon: Kittens $5.99; Puppies $5.13

Or buy it from ChristianBook.com: Kittens $4.99;  Puppies $4.99

Special Info: See our reviews of other books by Mary Manz Simon.

Building Blocks in Life Science

If you homeschool or supplement your child's education at home, you might be tired of science books being filled with evolutionary theory taught as fact. It's difficult to get away from. But Building Blocks in Life Science by Gary Parker (Ed.D) is different; it's filled with information about creation science.

Parker, a former atheist, does a good job of explaining the basics of biology in this book.You'll find information on DNA, patterns and structure, classification, living cells, molecules, and other basic biological science. The first chapter hits evolution head on, challenging it and poking holes in the theory. The rest of the book doesn't let up, continuing to link science to God and the Bible.

For anyone not familiar with the creationist viewpoint, Building Blocks is a great place to start. At a time when Richard Dawkins, possibly the most respected scientist in the world today, admits evolution makes no sense without a creator or creators - creators he thinks were aliens, not God - giving creation theory a hard look is vital to a good education.

What I Like: Overall, I think this book is a good introduction to creation theory. It's a textbook, complete with a few work pages, but could be read by anyone with curiosity about creation and biology.

What I Dislike: Building Blocks book is marred a bit by the author's tone. There are too many exclamation points (which aren't very scholarly) and sometimes rather snide comments about evolution or other topics contrary to the author's view. A textbook is no place for an author to express opinions.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: The publisher doesn't give an age or grade recommendation, but I'd say 8th grade and up.

Publishing Info: New Leaf Publishing/Master Books, 2011; ISBN 978-0890515891; paperback, 159 pgs., $15.99

Buy at Amazon for $15.99

Or buy it from ChristianBook.com for $11.99

Tuck-Me-In Talks with Your Little Ones

As a reviewer for Christian Children's Book Review, I have the opportunity to read many wonderful books with my children. Some have even become personal favorites. Tuck-Me-In Talks with Your Little Ones by Grace Fox is one that I will cherish for a long time to come.

It is a pocket sized book filled with hours of wonderful conversations for you and your little ones. Many times mothers will talk to each other about this conversation they had with their child or how they had just talked about that with their munchkin and some moms are left wondering, "Where do I even begin? I don't know how to talk to my little one or how to start a conversation with them."

This book is definitely the answer for that.

In the evening, after we have read from our children's Bible, we read one page, which has a mix of three to four questions and conversation starter statements, and I let my children (2.5 and 6 years old) talk. Questions like "What is your favorite ice cream flavor?" and "What's the best part about Christmas?" let you know what your child's opinion is about simple things that can get overlooked as we are running around keeping up with our schedules.

Other questions like "How is ice cream made?" and "Why are fire engines red?" can lead into a time of exploration. We have pulled out our tablet many times to find out the hows or whys.

Some statements such as "Tell me about a time you were not patient," cause children to think about their own interaction with others and creates a perfect teaching time for parents to address certain behaviors before they an issue.

What I Like: I absolutely love that my children ask for this book as we are getting ready for bed. They enjoy the just-us time it creates, and I love the interactions we have because of this book.

What I Dislike: I wish the cover were harder. With as much as we as a family use this book, the cover is beginning to show wear.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: Toddler- early elementary aged children

Publisher Info: Harvest House Publishers, 2014; ISBN: 978-0-7369-5640-6 ; paperback, 112 pgs., $5.99


Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $5.49


OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $5.39

The World of Science

It's no secret American kids, when compared to children in other first world countries, lag behind in science. If you want to help boost your child's science knowledge, The World of Science is a great choice. This book is packed with full color photos and drawings, engaging sidebars of interesting fact, science projects, and the basics of:

* Matter and Chemicals
* Energy, Motion, and Machines
* Electricity and Magnetism
* Light and Sound
* Earth and Life
* and Space and Time.

The Introduction begins by quoting  the creation story (Gen. 2:20) and concludes: "Here is the first record of a type of scientific classification, giving unique names to each distinct living creature." It also mentions the importance of godly wisdom when it comes to science. The remainder of the book barely mentions God, but it avoids avoids controversial topics such as evolution, young earth vs. old earth, and global warming. The science projects in the back of the book include:

* Sprouting seeds
* Growing mold
* Growing crystals
* Chemical reactions
* Electrolysis
* Making an autogyro
* Water cycle projects
* Optical fibers
* Camera in a box
* Making a spectrum
* Convected and conducted heat
* High and low pressure
* Making a battery
* Making a compass
* Making an electromagnet
* Making a simple electric motor

and more.

What I Like: My kids couldn't wait to get their hands on this book. It is so colorful and so packed with interesting photos and drawings, they were eager to spend time just looking at it. I also find the text easy to understand; my 8 year old can very much understand it. And I love the projects at the back of the book; they make it very easy to read a bit about a topic, then put it into action.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: Second grade to perhaps high school.

Publishing Info: Master Books, 2011; ISBN:  978-0890516188; hardback, 248 pgs., $19.15

Buy Now at Amazon for $19.15
Or buy at ChristianBook.com for $17.99

Children's Bible Hour Seasons of Faith Series

Summer is a time of warm, lazy days, splashing in the pool, and the inevitable car trip.  Books on CD can pass the time for children and parents, after the scenery and "car bag" crafts have lost their appeal. The Children's Bible Hour Seasons of Faith series provides entertaining stories, biblical wisdom, excellent artwork, and a read-long CD. What better way to pass the time?

The books are narrated by "Uncle Charlie" and include a tone to tell listeners when to turn the page. Children will also enjoy listening as they work on Lego sets, crafts, or housecleaning, at home.
The Seasons of Faith books are categorized into seasons. "Spring" books deal with salvation and new life in Christ. "Summer" books deal with growing and bearing fruit as Christians. "Autumn" books address God's love in times of struggle and temptation. "Winter" books deal with grief, loss and God's comfort.

In the "Summer" book, Monkey Business, Austin and Brooke are learning about evolution in science class. They talk about what they learn with Gramps, who reminds them of the truth of the Bible.  The next day, they return home laughing about Austin's witty response to Mr. Davies. However, Gramps reminds them it would be a much better witness to Mr. Davies and their classmates if they studied the assigned material and were respectful, even as they hold fast to biblical truth.

The "Autumn" book, The Prize Cake deals with Tori's motivations and disappointments surrounding
a cake-baking contest. Her mom reminds her Christians should "Develop the gifts and skills God gave you to glorify Him," instead of making winning the most important thing. Tori also learns some important lessons about forgiveness from her mom and little brother.

Saying Farewell is the poignant story of twins Grace and Hannah, who enjoy each other despite their differences. When Grace is killed in a car accident, Hannah questions God's purposes. Her parents, instead of giving her pat answers, admit they are sad and don't understand, but reassure her with their trust in God's goodness.

The last page of each book walks children through the steps to become a Christian.

What I Like: These are beautiful 8" by 10" books. The bright watercolors and pastels have a painted look to them, and the children's faces are lifelike.

The books handle real-life issues with compassion and grace. The Bible is central to each story, but the authors weave biblical truth into each story in a seamless and natural way. Children will relate to the characters and their lives. My own children were drawn to the books and read them before I had a chance to look at them!

The CDs are well done, and my five-year-old loves having the chimes tell her when to turn the page. The stories are long enough to make it worth listening to the CD.

What I Dislike: I wish there were more diversity in the children shown.  They are adorable, but all white. Also, this isn't a dislike, but a caution. I couldn't get through reading Saying Farewell to myself without getting choked up, let alone reading it to my kids or listening to the CD.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 5 and up, but do preview the "Winter" books
 
Publisher Info: CBH Ministries, 2010-2012; ISBN: 978-0-9825120-6-7 (The Prize Cake); Paperback, 32 pages, $10.00

 All three books are available for purchase here, through Children's Bible Hour Ministries. 
  
OR Buy Saying Farewell at Amazon.com for $5.99 (Kindle Edition).
Buy The Prize Cake at Amazon for $5.99 (Kindle Edition)

Butterflies, Ladybugs, and Squirrels

Exploring God's creation is a common activity for Bonnie, the narrator of Butterflies, Ladybugs, and Squirrels, written and illustrated by Amy Webb. Today, Bonnie wants to tell you about three of favorite creatures found in her backyard.

Filled with trivia and fun crafts, Butterflies, Ladybugs, and Squirrels is a handy little book for your budding naturalist and outdoor enthusiast. They will be fascinated by the things they didn't know about these common creatures, like how to tell a moth and a butterfly apart. (Even I was surprised by the things I'd forgotten!)

What I Like: This is a really cute book on all levels. The writing is great, the illustrations simply amazing, and the facts wonderful. I love how Bonnie ties everything back to honoring God, thanking Him for His creation. At the end, she journals to God, and I found that to be one of the most honest and poignant parts of the book--and a great lesson on prayer, too!

What I Dislike: My only problem with the book is a formatting gripe. I can understand having a book with butterflies and ladybugs together as the subject matter (they're insects, which makes sense), but squirrels too? Even though they're all common backyard creatures, it seems to me that doing two books--one on mammals/rodents and another on insects would have been a better idea. However, that's just me, and I wouldn't let that detract from the excellent quality of this book.

Overall Rating: Very good, only because I would have rather seen this as two books as mentioned above. Otherwise, this would have received the top rating of excellent.

Age Appeal: 5 - 10

Publisher Info: Creation Today, 2012; ISBN: 978-1-58468-511-1; Hardback, 32 pgs., $9.95

Buy it at Amazon.com for $10.73.

Help! I'm Being Taught Evolution In My Earth Science Class!

When evolution is taught as fact, not theory, it can be tough for anyone, especially kids, to know what to say to help refute it. For the biblically-minded teen, Help! I'm Being Taught Evolution in My Earth Science Class! by Dr. Kent Hovind approaches the topic in an informative, easy-to-read "e-mail exchange" format.

Jon is a ninth grader in a public school earth science class who contacts Dr. Hovind because he doesn't feel comfortable with all the talk about evolution in class, but isn't sure what to do about it. Dr. Hovind coaches Jon through his anxieties, and gives him tips on how to approach his teacher and engage the other students with an honest discussion about soundly-based science facts versus the "religious" evolution theory. Over the course of what is meant to be be several months, Dr. Hovind and Jon discuss topics from "The Big Bang" to the evolution of stars, the structure of the earth, fossil evidence, and the fallacy of carbon dating. Oh, and a certain girl in Jon's class who he's sweet on.

What I Like: This was a very easy to read book. The banter back and forth was nice--like Dr. Hovind gently teasing Jon about his friendliness with the girls' PE teacher. And the discussion seemed very honest, even if I do believe it was probably made up for the book. I really felt the techniques suggested, such as asking questions and being humble, were very appropriate not only for the age (when they're liable to be pompous and too self-assured), but also due to the fact that if your student wants to suggest contradictory theories to evolution, they're liable to meet resistance since many facets of evolution are "religious" rather than a scientific.

What I Dislike: While I love the format, I think the author recognized this was more of a stepping-stone to asking the right questions, rather than a be-all-and-end-all guidebook on all of the scientific evidence. Frequently, additional resources (by the author and others) are referenced and suggested for purchase. Not that there's anything bad with that, but it on certain pages it feels like you bought a sales pitch. But if this is not something that would turn you off, it is definitely a good tool to use in tandem with the multitude of resources that are suggested throughout the book.

Overall, this is a book more about technique on how to say things rather than what to say, although many suggestions are made for facts to bring to light in class.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: 10 & up.

Publisher Info: Creation Science Evangelism, 2008; ISBN: 978-1-58468-032-1; Paperback, 46 pgs., $6.50

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $5.99
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $6.18.

God's Biggest Treasures

Little Katie loves being out in God's Creation. When Grandpa sends her a magnifying glass in God's Biggest Treasures by Melissa Alani, she gets the opportunity to observe creation up close.

Upon receiving the magnifying glass, Katie quickly discovers everything that looked small before now looks much bigger. First, she spies a caterpillar spinning a cocoon and thinks it's gross, but then she remembers a butterfly will emerge from the the cocoon, and realizes the caterpillar is creating its own treasure. Next, she spies an acorn sprouting into an oak tree, then a heart-shaped rock, and finally a tadpole that will soon change into a frog.

Then Katie races into her house where she sits down and writes a thank you note to her grandpa, telling him all about the small treasures she found with his gift.

What I Like: Pretty much everything in this book is great! I loved the bright images, the fact Katie is playing outside when she discovers the package, and her wonderful curiosity. But the most commendable part, in my opinion, is that she sat down to write a thank you note. What a great way to teach manners to our kids - by letting them observe a great character like Katie being grateful for her gift. While the Christian content is present, it's very subtle since the story is more about observing nature.

What I Dislike: Not so much a dislike, but just something I noticed. In one image, Katie is pictured writing to her grandpa with her left hand. In the next, she's writing on her rock with her right hand. Who knows, maybe she's ambidextrous.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 5 - 8

Publisher Info: Tate Publishing, 2011; ISBN: 978-1-61346-677-3; Paperback, 24 pgs., $8.99

Buy it at Amazon.com for $8.99.

The Guardians: Evolution Exposed

Dawna Lee's The Guardians: Evolution Exposed is, oddly enough, one of my favorite books of 2012.  Despite some editing issues and a misleading title, this book has lots to recommend it.

In Evolution Exposed, we follow Kaleb and Dawson, two goodhearted, but slightly adolescent guardian angels as they watch over Sawyer, their assigned protege. Using webcams, text messaging, and computer monitoring, Dawson and Kaleb keep in touch with God and work together to guide Sawyer through the first days of middle school. Raised in a Christian home, Sawyer is struggling with openly living out his Christianity and exposing himself to atheist teachers and worldly peers.  Dawson and Kaleb have their work cut out for them. When a new boy, Preston, transfers into Sawyer's biology class where students have been assigned to work in groups to present evidence of evolution, the guardian angels are excited. They hope Preston will help Sawyer become a stronger Christian. However, their hopes backfire when Preston's outspoken faith makes Sawyer feel inferior. Sawyer doesn't want to risk his grade or reputation by approaching evolutionary theory from a Christian perspective, and chooses to stay in a group with the "cool" kids. 

Kaleb and Dawson call, email and text God regularly, as they work behind the scenes to guide Sawyer to the right paths.  It helps that Sawyer's parents pray for him often, and his church has a great youth group and a godly pastor.

If you are looking for a treatise on Christian responses to evolutionary theory, you won't find it here.  Rather, Lee brings up some interesting questions that may inspire readers to do more research and exploration.  What you will find, though, is an insightful look at the lives of middle school students who are being looked after by guardian angels, and more importantly, God.

If you, like me, are nervous about sending a child to middle school, or you have a child who is unsure what to expect, this is a comforting, reassuring book.

What I Like:  Although the book starts out with a fairly negative view of middle school, I was very pleased by the glimpses of the science teacher's guardian angel.  Even though the science teacher begins the year adamantly opposed to considering Creation, he clearly cares about his students.  Preston's sincerity reminds the teacher of himself as a young boy. When the guardian angels get frustrated with the teacher, God reminds them He cares about all His creation.  Plot Spoiler Ahead: By the next school year, the teacher's heart softens enough to allow students to turn in projects supporting either Evolution or Creation, as long as they are based on scientific research.

I love the way the angels talk to each other and God.  They seem almost irreverent at times, but they are constantly watching out for Sawyer and Preston and checking with God about the best course of action.  The fact they actively listen to parents' prayers is comforting to any parent who is absent from their child for any length of time.

I also liked seeing Sawyer's very human struggles with wanting to have fun and fit in, but also wanting to please his parents and youth pastor.  Plot Spoiler Ahead:  Sawyer eventually decides to support Preston's biology project, and the two boys invite other classmates to church.

What I Dislike:  There were some awkward editing spots.  Sometimes, the dialogue sounded stilted and it wasn't always clear who was speaking.

I also was dismayed at the negative portrayal of middle school in the first couple of chapters, but was pleased the book presented a more positive view by the end. 

Overall Rating: Good considering editing issues, but Very Good in terms of content

Age Appeal:  Grades 5-8

Publisher Info: Lighthouse Christian Publishing, 2012 ; ISBN: 9781477420652; Paperback, 57 pages, $9.95

Buy it at Amazon.com for $9.95.
 

Donald Discovers True Love

Donald the Duck has grown up and decides it's time to get married in Donald Discovers True Love by Tim Ostermeyer. But his little pond is a lonely spot -- there are no other ducks. How is he supposed to find his true love if he's the only duck around?

Donald sets off to explore the country, all the while searching high and low for his true love. First he enjoys Texas, then makes his way through a dozen states total, finding interesting things in each one -- from kudzu in Arkansas to Arches National Park in Utah. But he never finds his true love! Finally, Donald returns to his little pond and finds the most beautiful duck, Daffadil, waiting for him.

What I Like: The photography is amazing. Some of pictures actually seem artificially real; they're that breathtaking.

What I Dislike: The story, for me, is a bit loose. I can see no reason why Donald takes off for a tour of the south and western United States -- he just goes. Why search for another duck in the desert of Arizona or in the bayou of Louisiana? Honestly, the whole idea of a duck searching for true love is absurd to me.

While I find the photography beautiful, the organization of the book is haphazard at best. If it had been me, I would have shown a map of where Donald was and traced his path. Saying "Oh, Donald's in Utah" does nothing to help a child learn where Utah is. Another reason I say the organization is haphazard is that Donald jumps around states like he has a transporter from Star Trek. In one section, he is in Arizona, then jumps to Colorado, and next to Arkansas. A few pages later, he hops from Tennessee to Utah. This method does little to help a child who is studying geography to learn exactly where places are; it could reinforce inaccurate thoughts.

Certain states -- like Arizona -- are focused on heavily, and have several pages dedicated to photographs of Donald in various locations. Other states -- Colorado stands out to me -- are hardly mentioned, and only have a page or two. I would have preferred to see a more equilateral approach, maybe 4 - 6 pages dedicated to each state.

While God and scripture is mentioned in the book, it seems like an afterthought. Some of the scripture quoted doesn't feel like it goes with anything in the book. One example is Malachi 3:10 which references bringing the whole tithe into the storehouse.

Overall Rating: Good, based entirely on the photographs, not on the story. If the photography wasn't so good, I would have rated this book Ho-hum. However, a savvy parent with a bit of information about the locations pictured could use this book as a travelogue of sorts with their children. And, it would make a great coffee-table book.

Age Appeal: 5 - 8

Publisher Info: Fun Adventure Wildlife Books, 2011; ISBN: 978-0-9794228-1; Hardback, 48 pages., $18.95

Buy it at Amazon.com for $18.95.

Charlie & Trike in the Grand Canyon Adventure

The Grand Canyon has long been a favorite topic among creation scientists (scientists who believe the Bible offers a literal explanation of the world's beginnings); and in Charlie and Trike in the Grand Canyon Adventure, written by Ken Ham and Karen Hansel, a little monkey named Charlie and his friend, a dinosaur named Trike, take their first trip to that magnificent natural wonder.

Charlie is immediately suspicious of their tour guide, a burly man with an eye patch, but soon forgets his worries as he discovers two fossils of sea creatures. How did they end up in the middle of the canyon? Trike talks about Noah's flood, and how this explains why sea creature fossils are found in places far from the ocean. Charlie isn't sure he believes in the flood - then he notices his food is disappearing. Immediately he thinks their pirate-looking tour guide is stealing it...Not long after, their tour guide saves Charlie's life.

Reflecting on how wrong he was about their tour guide, Charlie asks Trike how he knows the Bible is true. "We have to trust the One Who gave people the Bible," he replies. Just like Charlie had to trust their tour guide to help him. And the thief? Turns out it's a little squirrel. Charlie admits to their guide, "I was wrong about you from the start."

Throughout the book are fun features like flaps to lift, envelopes with notes inside, foldable maps, and mini books pasted inside to shed more light on specific topics like fossils, Noah's flood, etc.

What I Like: I really like all the little extras that come with this book; every kid loves lift-the-flaps, and my children are also fascinated by the mini books, maps, and so on. I also appreciate having a book that tries to explain the the Grand Canyon from a biblical perspective.

What I Dislike: I appreciate Ken Ham's work, but he is not a strong writer, especially when it comes to children's books. Among the faults in this book are that sometimes the story jumps oddly. For example, the first page talks about Charlie getting ready for his trip. Then you turn the page and suddenly he's getting into the tour bus. It confused my kids. The authors also don't give a decent explanation about why we should believe the Bible; I know this topic could take a book to thoroughly cover, but surely the authors could have come up with something more compelling than, "just believe." The illustrations by Portland Studios are okay - a sort of computer animation style - but I would have preferred something that could show off the beauty of the Canyon better.

Overall Rating: Because I know of no other children's book for this age group that explains the Grand Canyon as a creation of Noah's flood, I give this book a Good rating. And - especially if you're visiting the Grand Canyon or studying it in school - this book still makes a decent addition to the family bookshelf.

Age Appeal: I'd say 6 to 9 or so.

Publishing Info: New Leaf Publishing; 2010; ISBN: 978-0890515693; hardback, 24 pgs., $15.99.

Special Info: Although this book says it's the first in a series called The Green Notebook, I cannot see that any other series books were actually published. You may also wish to visit Ham's Answers in Genesis for kids website or see the book's trailer at ChristianBook.com.

Buy Now at Amazon for $12.47
Or buy at ChristianBook.com for $11.99

The World of Animals

If you want a family book about animals that doesn't constantly refer to evolution, The World of Animals is an excellent choice. This beautiful, hardbound book is packed full of color photographs and illustrations, making it a delight to even young children. The text, which can be read to children as young as kindergarten or so (but appeals even to adults), covers simple animals (like sponges and jellyfish); worms, snails, and starfish; insects and other arthropods; fish; amphibians and reptiles; birds; and mammals. Within these categories, specific animals are usually given a two page spread of text explaining how the animal lives.

For example, in the mammal section, a two page spread is given to various types of bats. We learn there are two basic types of bats: fruit bats and flying foxes; and insect-eating bats. We learn the difference between the two, that most bats are nocturnal, how they eat, how they navigate, how they use their claws, and so on. A sidebar explains the complexity of a bat wing. Another sidebar explains echolocation. And there is a truth vs. fiction section on vampire bats.

Really, with the exception of the introduction, which talks about creation and Noah's flood, this book isn't a "Christian" book. It simply omits mention of evolution.

What I Like: This book is gorgeous and very inviting. Even my toddler enjoys looking at the pictures, and my first grader loves having me read bits and pieces of the book.The text is simple, but not dumbed-down. And there is no mention of evolution.
 

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: Kindergarteners to adults

Publishing Info: Master Books; 2011; ISBN: 978-0890516171; hardback, 256 pgs., $24.99.
Buy Now at Amazon for $18.24, OR buy from ChristianBook.com for $16.29

God Made Something Beautiful

Nature is filled with lots of wonderful things. In God Made Something Beautiful by Penny Reeve and illustrated by Roger de Klerk, kids learn to look for the extraordinary in everyday life.

The two unnamed children in the story are out for a walk, and they happen across all kinds of interesting things--animals, trees, birds, flowers. They discover an eye looking at them through a bush, and they have to figure out what goes along with it--first tail feathers, then loose feathers, finally a whole peacock!

What I Like: The story is simple and straightforward for young children and early readers. Finding the animals is fun! My daughter (3 1/2 years old) quickly pointed out out everything the pages asked us to look for, and then some.

The illustrations are vibrant and engaging. There's also a Bible verse on every page to accompany the story.

What I Dislike: Only one minor thing: The kids in the book, probably around the age of 6 or 7, are by themselves, with no parents around. Granted, this is a Scottish book, so maybe it's a little more acceptable across the pond to allow your younger kids to go on a nature walk alone. This didn't detract from my family's enjoyment of this book, though.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 2 - 5

Publisher Info: Christian Focus Publications, 2002; ISBN: 978-1-85792-773-3; Paperback, 16 pgs., $4.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $4.49
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $4.99.

Special Info: As this is a Scottish publisher, there are a few instances of English spellings.

Take a Trip on the Silver Ship

In this beautifully illustrated board book, Darrell Wiskur takes children on a journey under the ocean in their very own "silver ship" (or submersible vehicle). Each page of Take a Trip on the Silver Ship features a cut out hole as part of the ship, and the last page has a mirror on it; the result is that kids see themselves in the "window" of the ship.

They see sea lions and penguins under ice bergs, a mama and baby whale, squids and jellyfish, weird deep sea fish with glowing lights, and sea turtles, all through lovely blue-tinged illustrations. The text is written in rhyme and mentions God several times. For example:

"God made squid and jellyfish
Without any bones!
Deep in the ocean
They are at home.
Some are giant;
Some are small.
God made jellyfish
Squishiest of all."

The last page asks kids to praise God for all creation.

What I Like: As I've already mentioned, the illustrations are very pleasing and both my kids (ages 3 and 6) enjoyed the mirror. Both wanted the book read to them repeatedly. 

What I Dislike: Although the first two page spread mentioned the silver ship can take children on a journey - even a journey through time - I find it jarring that one page illustrates and discusses Plesiousaurs, a type of dinosaur believed to swim in the sea. Because the rest of the book highlights currently-living creatures, I had to stop and explain to my youngest that dinosaurs no longer live.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 3 and up, but I think many 2 year old would enjoy it, too.

Publishing Info: Master Books; 2002; ISBN: 978-0890513798 ; boardbook, 16 pgs., $6.99.
Buy Now at Amazon for $6.99
OR buy the Kindle edition for $5.99

God Made Something Amazing (Find the Animal)

God created many incredible animals. In Penny Reeves book God Made Something Amazing by Penny Reeve, it's your job to use the clues to figure out which animal is spotlighted.

The story depicts two young explorers--a boy and a girl--who spot an animal. They speculate what it might be, based on the shape of its head, tail, feet, and where it lives. The illustrations, done by Roger De Klerk, tantalize the reader by showing only a small part of the animal at a time. In the final pages, the mystery is solved, and God is thanked for creating such marvelous creatures.

Each two-page spread in the book features a full page illustration on one side and large-sized print with 3-5 sentences on the other. In addition, each spread provides a short Bible verse (such as, "How great are your works, O Lord. Psalm 92:5) and two questions related to the picture (such as, "Can you find the green socks?").

What I Like: The large print and simple conversational style make this book ideal for the toddler/preschool age. In addition, I like how the questions redirect the reader's attention to the pictures. I also like the inclusion of Bible verses.

What I Dislike: There is nothing I truly dislike, but neither do I feel strongly that it's a "must have" type of book.

Overall Rating: Good

Age Appeal: No age is suggested by the publisher, but I think it's probably too basic for kids older than kindergarten, and would probably best appeal to the toddler/preschool age group.

Publisher Info: CF4K, 2011; ISBN:978-1845506940; Paperback, 16 pgs., $4.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $4.49
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $4.99.

Special Info: This book is one in a series of Find the Animal books. Other titles include God Made Something Strong, God Made Something Quick, God Made Something Funny, God Made Something Tall, and God Made Something Enormous.

A Day with the Dinosaurs

Our own Kristina Seleshanko has written many books, in several different genres. She has recently made available a free ebook called A Day with the Dinosaurs. Written to appeal to elementary students who enjoy The Magic Tree House series, A Day with the Dinosaurs is packed with action, adventure, science, and humor. However, it steers clear of the magical and mythological influences many Christians wish to avoid.

When Matt accidentally tries out his friend Tilly's latest invention, he has no idea it will transport them to an amazing prehistoric jungle. Even Tilly is surprised the time machine actually works. As third-graders, Matt and Tilly know enough about geography and archaeology to realize it is unusual to see kangaroos, giraffes, deer and lions all living in the same space, especially without eating each other. They are even more shocked to see a brachiosaurus and a tyrannosaurus rex exchange slobbery "kisses." It doesn't take the children long to realize they have traveled to the Garden of Eden, before Adam and Eve sinned.

As Matt and Tilly experience the garden, they wonder whether common scientific theories are mistaken. Maybe it was possible for humans, dinosaurs, and diverse species of animals to co-exist. However, this harmony can't last long. As the children watch, they see the Lord rebuke Adam and Eve for their disobedience. They also see animals become aggressive and prey on others--the consequences of the fall.

Once home, Tilly explains the fall, sin, and Jesus' salvation to Matt, who is sad about the way the garden changed, but interested in the Jesus Tilly talks about so much.

The book includes lots of color pictures, and several extras at the end, including "Fun Facts" (including explanations of biblical references to the Garden of Eden and possible dinosaurs, how Jesus saves us, and comparison pictures of a cedar tree and a brachiosaurus' neck). "Other Stuff to Think About" lists questions for kids and families, and Seleshanko provides a link to "More Fun Dinosaur Stuff."

What I Like: I love the combination of action, adventure, and animals. Readers will have fun learning about all the different animals and be intrigued by Matt and Tilly's adventures. The short chapters and consistent action mean children won't have time to get bored.

I also like the great biblical messages intertwined throughout the story. Not only do we learn about Creation, the Garden of Eden, and the fall, but Seleshanko presents the salvation message clearly, in kid-friendly terms. Too often, we assume children know what it means to be a Christian, but is great to hear Tilly explaining her faith to Matt, in typical third-grade language.

I appreciated all the extras at the end of the book. It is nice to have so many questions answered, as well as be given some great ideas for discussion.

What I Dislike: Nothing! At first, the talking parrot seemed odd, but if a serpent could talk to Adam and Eve and convince them to eat the apple, I don't know why a parrot couldn't talk to Tilly and Matt and show them how to get home.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 5-10

Publisher Info: eBook, 40 pages, FREE!

Special Note: Although managing editor Kristina Seleshanko wrote the book, neither she nor I receive any monetary compensation for making the book available or posting this review.