Suzette Gives Thanks for Instant Bible Lessons for Nursery: Give Thanks to God

Last year brought some changes not our home and family in a wonderful way. After being members at our current church for (at the time) six years, I was asked to step into the position of Interim Director of Children's Ministry until a full time Children's Minister could be found. I continue to serve in this capacity, and it has been a blessing to our family in so many ways.

I am thankful for the extra income it has blessed us with. I am thankful for the people I have met. I am thankful for the glimpse of our wonderful staff and all of the hard work they do behind the scenes so our Sunday mornings are flawless. I am thankful for the friendships I have made which will carry on long after my services are no longer needed. I am thankful for the children I have the privilege of serving each week.

When I received today's book, I knew God had led Kristina and Cynthia to pack it in my box because it was so relevant to the ministry I am currently involved in.

Instant Bible Lessons for Nursery: Give Thanks to God by Mary J. Davis is a consumable book of eight lessons, complete with reproducible coloring pages, songs, and Bible lessons.

The lessons in this book are designed for nursery aged children with simple lessons which go over the same concept repeatedly so little ones can remember it. Each lesson can be broken up to be spread over an entire month which is great in giving little ones consistency in their lesson.

As is implied in the title, this lesson book focuses on thankfulness. The lessons include:

• Thank You God for My Family
• Thank You God for My Friends
• Thank You God for My Home
• Thank You God for My Pets
• Thank You God for My Food
• Thank You God for Water
• Thank You God for Clothes
• Thank You God for My Church

The last chapter of the book includes extra "Give Thanks" activities, including games, rhymes, and crafts.

Even children in the infant nursery can be taught to be thankful just by having the caregiving adult repeating the simple themes and verses while being rocked.

What I Like: I love the simplicity of the these lessons. Nursery curricula put together by larger groups often include "too much" stuff, and little ones are not designed to sit through and listen to a long drawn out lesson. The length of the lessons in this book are the perfect length for little ones. All of the pages in the book are also perforated for easy removal and photocopying.

As the Children's Ministry Director at our church, I look forward to implementing this book in our nursery.

What I Dislike: I liked everything about this book.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 0-2 year olds

Publisher Info: Rainbow Publishers, 2012; ISBN: 978-1-58411-119-1; paperback, 96 pgs., $13.95


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Thank You, God

Thankfulness is something we all need to nourish in our hearts, and J. Bradley Wigger's Thank You, God is a pleasant way to do that with children. Illustrated by The Jesus' Storyboook Bible's artist, Jago, and written by a professor of religious education, this attractive picture book is simple and joyous.

The first pages reveal a rising sun, then a family waking in their house, then a young girl greeting the new day. When the text begins, it begins at the beginning:

"Thank you, God,
for the sun smiling on our earth
to wake up the day,
for the light opening my eyes
to see all you have made."

Other pages thank God for family and friends, home, food, the outdoors, rain, animals...then:

"Bless you, God,
for this day,
for life,
for your love holding us together.
Amen."

The last page shows a setting sun.

What I Like: The illustrators are pure Jago. They are beautiful, but not exactly traditional. (You can see some Jago's work at his website.) The text is very simple, but it's also appealing to young children. But what I love best about this book is how it shows children how to be thankful from sun up to sun set.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: about 2 - 8

Publishing Info: Eerdmans , 2014; ISBN 978-0802854247; hardback, 26 pgs.,$12.84

Buy at Amazon for $12.84

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)

Tadeo Turtle

Psalm 139: 13-14 tells us how God knit us together, and is quoted at the beginning of Tadeo Turtle, written and illustrated by Janis Cox. Written in rhyming verse, a once contented turtle named Tadeo becomes envious of the way a fellow creature (Sammy Squirrel) is able to move. Hampered by his shell, Tadeo mourns the fact that he can’t climb, run, and jump.

Then one day, Tadeo dreams that he has no shell to hold him back, and he indulges in some classic squirrel maneuvers. He’s happy until a cat comes along and chases him…just as a cat would chase a squirrel. It is only then that he wishes to have his shell back.

When Tadeo wakes up, he acknowledges that he is a turtle, and, as such, God had made him perfectly.

The book ends with four turtle craft ideas and a page devoted to turtle research ideas. The overall structure of the book is no more than four lines of text per page paired with watercolor pictures of various sizes.

What I Like: I like how the author started the book with a Bible verse. Plus, the theme of the book is good: God perfectly and wonderfully made you. I also like the book extensions. Although the crafts aren’t particularly original, they are fun, and the inclusion of them will likely inspire budding artists to create their own turtle. Perhaps they might even use their project to retell the story.

What I Dislike: This isn’t a dislike, but a neutral statement. The illustrations are okay—not my favorite style for a book geared toward younger readers, but still realistic and well done. But to me, many just don’t hold enough detail or variety to keep the attention of a younger audience.

This is also not a dislike, but a note. The research aspect of the book might be too difficult for the target audience. I checked out all the websites listed. One looks to be at about a first or second grade reading level. The text of the other two sites is at about a third or fourth grade level. However, with the guidance of an adult, younger children can enjoy these resources too.

My one true dislike is the price. $12.99 is pricey for a 28 page paperback.

Overall Rating: Good

Age Appeal: No age is listed, but the simplicity of the tale makes it well suited for a Preschool or perhaps Kindergarten audience.

Publisher Info: Word Alive Press, 2012; ISBN: 978-1770696952; Paperback, 28 pgs., $12.99

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Psalms for Kids: Psalm 8

Psalm 8 is one of joy and praise: O Lord, our Lord, you majestic name fills the earth! Author Sherri Trudgian takes this beloved Psalm and sweetly retells it in her own words: Our God is awesome! His works are terrific. Look all around you—now let’s get specific…

Following the blueprint of the original Psalm, Trudgian highlights the planets and various animals, praising God’s handiwork throughout all creation in her book Psalms for Kidz: Psalm 8. Each page contains one or two quatrains of rhyming text and bright, kid-friendly watercolor artwork done by Melanie Moreland Krass. In addition, the inside cover contains a note to parents from the author and there is a page devoted to the original Psalm. The book concludes on the back cover with comments from both author and illustrator about planning stages in the book and ultimate product.

What I Like: I appreciate the inclusion of the original Psalm. I enjoyed comparing and contrasting it to the poem Trudgian created. The message is upbeat and has a repeating chorus young children will enjoy. The paintings, done by Krass, are whimsical and packed with curled, stripy, or zigzagging lines…and a nice accompaniment to the text.

What I Dislike: The rhyming meter is occasionally awkward. For example: God put sheep in flocks,/ Placed the cattle in herds,/ Fish in the ocean—/Filled the sky up with birds. Also, for the sake of the rhyme, the story contained empty “filler” words, making the story longer than it needed to be.

Overall Rating: Good. I enjoyed it, and I think young readers will too. It would also be a fun addition to a church library.

Age Appeal: None listed, but I suggest Preschool through first grade.

Publisher Info: Little Sprout Publishing House, 2011; ASIN: B00737WF9M ; Paperback, 32 pgs., $7.99

This book is NOT available at Christianbook.com.
Buy it at Amazon.com for $7.99.

Special info: Check out CCBR reviews of other books by Trudgian.

Thank You, God!: A Year of Blessings and Prayers For Little Ones

There is something delightful and irresistible about Thank You, God!: A Year of Blessings and Prayers for Little Ones. The book starts with the New Year, then goes on to spring and Easter, summer, fall and Thanksgiving, winter and Christmas.

Each two page spread in the book is done on heavy stock paper, and features a collection of famous quotes (such as Folliot S. Pierpoint’s “For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies…”), lines from favorite hymns (“Joyful, joyful, we adore thee…”), Scripture verses, and poems.

The reader will also discover one or two tiny envelopes on each spread. The envelopes open at the top and hold mini thank you notes written to God in simple and kid-friendly terms. (The first card, for example, says “Thank you, God, for each new year. Thank you for the promise of new beginnings, of new hope, and new life. Amen.”) The very last page of the book holds the biggest envelope… and a surprise. The card is blank! The reader is encouraged to write his own thank you note on it.

The illustrations, done by Sophie Allsopp, are beautiful. The brightly colored scenes are filled with warm tones, friendly animals, and inviting landscapes. Allsopp depicts a variety of ethnic children as they enjoy each season and a few holidays. Each page seems to burst with life. In addition, the book has a padded cover, which gives it a cozy feel.

What I Like: The book is sturdy. And most children will find the envelopes enticing. Although there is no real story, it’s the kind of book that young kids will enjoy for the novelty of it. The concepts in the book are meaty enough that parents could take one two-page spread at a time and use it as a short family devotional centerpiece. Best of all, Amazon has a BARGAIN PRICE on this book. It would make a nice gift book.

What I Dislike: Nothing

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: None is given. As a read aloud, younger kids would enjoy it, but it's probably best suited for the grade K-2 crowd.

Publisher Info: Little Simon Inspirations, 2009; ISBN: 141694754X; Hardcover, 16 pgs., $12.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $9.99
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Special Info: Read a CCBR review of another book illustrated by Sophie Allsopp. You can also find a similarly structured book by Allsopp called Dear God: Letters For Little People. This book contains eleven mini envelopes with prayer cards. Another book of prayers by this author is Our Father: And Other Classic Prayers For Children.

Thank You, God, For Loving Me

Thank You, God, For Loving Me by Max Lucado is the charming tale of little Hermie the Caterpillar. Hermie prays and thanks God for loving him, and shows just how God loves him. Illustrations by Frank Endersby help show Hermie's choices and activities throughout the day where God is included.

What I Like: This cute story is a great way to help kids understand God's loving nature towards us, but also His omnipotence. Even though the story doesn't come out and say God is omnipotent, it's pretty obvious throughout the text. For instance, Hermie refers to God being with him when he's afraid, and guiding him when there's a choice between right and wrong.

The rhyming nature of this tale really flows well, tripping off the tongue in an easy manner. I never stumbled when reading it aloud to my kids. For example:

"You watch me when I am awake
And when I sleep and play.
You always take good care of me
Through each and every day."

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 3 - 7, though I honestly think younger children would enjoy the sound of the story as well as the great illustrations, but older kids may be bored, so I'd say Infant - 5.

Publisher Info: Tommy Nelson, 2011; ISBN: 978-1-4003-1804-9; Board Book, PGS., $6.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $5.99 or as e-book for $5.59.
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Special Info: We've reviewed other books by Max Lucado here.

Thank You, God, for Blessing Me

If you want to teach your toddler how to have an attitude of gratefulness, you may enjoy Max Lucado’s book Thank You, God, for Blessing Me. In the story, Hermie the caterpillar thanks God for all his blessings: the beauty of nature, his family and friends, and for providing food and shelter. Hermie also asks God to help him be kind and obey… because that’s another way Hermie thanks God.
The book is written in rhyming text. Each page turn is a two-page spread, making the actual “story” only 5 pages long. The illustrations, done by Frank Endersby, hold enough detail to keep the attention of young readers. Endersby fills each background with either bright warm colors or soothing cool colors.
What I Like: The illustrations are sweet and appealing. The message is simple and easy to remember. The brevity of the story and sturdiness of the board book format makes it a great bedtime read for the infant to age 3 audiences. Kids who are already familiar with the Hermie character will likely enjoy reading it the most. It would serve as a great springboard to talk to your kids about prayer.
What I Dislike: Hermie thanks God for his eight little buggy feet. It’s good to thank God for this, but a true caterpillar would not have 8 feet. It would have 6 true legs at the front end of its body and five sets of prolegs at the back end of its body. If I were reading it to my little one, I’d probably pause to point that out. (It’s the teacher in me!) In addition, the meter of the poetry wasn’t quite consistent, which, at times, made it awkward to read aloud.
Overall Rating: Very good for kids infant through age 3. Good for children older than 3.
Age Appeal: Baby-preschool
Publisher Info: Thomas Nelson, 2011; ISBN:978-1400318032; Boardbook, 10 PGS., $6.99
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Special Info: Read CCBR reviews of other books by Max Lucado.

Ponder Learns to be Thankful

Ponder Porcupine has everything he needs. He has a family who loves him, a warm place to sleep at night, nice clothes to wear, and plenty of food to eat. He thinks everyone has the same nice things he does.

But Ponder Learns to Be Thankful when he discovers that the Muskrat family lost their home in a flood. Now the Muskrats have no place to sleep, they have very little food to eat, and they must wear the same clothes every day.

When Ponder realizes he has so much compared to the little the Muskrat family has, he is thankful for what he has and does something special for the Muskrat family.

The story is both written and illustrated by Marla F. Jones. All of the illustrations cover a full page and are simple but expressive. A Bible verse is given at the end of the book to reference the story: “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” [1 Thessalonians 5:18]

What I Like: I like the storyline. Ponder learns to be appreciate what he has when he finds out that other people don’t have much of anything. He’s not being “preached” to, he simply observes what’s going on around him and makes the connection himself.

What I Dislike: I don’t really like the layout of the book. The pages either have text on them or they have illustrations on them. There are no pages with both text and illustrations. It would have been nice if there were some pages with both illustrations and text.

Also, there is a typo in the text. It’s not a big deal, but I just thought I’d point that out.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: Author House, 2010; ISBN: 9781449085704; Paperback, $13.99.

Buy now at Amazon.com $13.99!

Thank You God from Kids Around the World

Focusing on thankfulness while introducing children to our similarities and wonderful differences is what Thank You, God from Kids Around the World by Allia Zobel Nolan is all about.

Nolan is well known for her well written rhyming children's books, and this, her newest title, is no less well executed. Sometimes she has children thanking God for regionally specific things (like Lady Liberty, Chinese dragon kites, Indian curry, or Egyptian camels) and occasionally for universals (like parents and God's love).

The illustrations by Miki Sakamoto compliment the text beautifully, with bright colors and cute kid faces. Many pages also feature a flap kids can lift.

What I Like: My 6 year old was fascinated to see images of children in other lands. (Her favorite? The illustration of a Chinese family.) She had fun guessing which countries the children were from, and her nearly 3 year old brother loved learning about them, too. The images are colorful, the text is well written, the theme is important. What's not to like?

What I Dislike: Nothing, really, although it would have been nice to have some written indication of which countries were being featured, perhaps with a few bits of factual information to help parents teach their children more about children around the world.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 4 to 8, but I think this book is most appropriate for 2 to 6.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz; 2011; ISBN: 978-0310722649; paperback, 16 pgs., $6.99.

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Special Info: Read our reviews of other Allia Zobel Nolan books.

Let the Whole Earth Sing Praise

One of my favorite author/illustrators, Tomie dePaola, offers children a book of beauty and joy with Let the Whole Earth Sing Praise. The book begins with a note from the author, where he cites the Old Testament inspiration for the words and describes how the artwork “echoes folk art embroideries and native designs of the Otomi people” who live in Pueblo, Mexico.

The story structure is straightforward: Three to ten large, hand printed words joyously flow and swirl across each page and are accompanied by bright colors and simple plant and animal shapes that feel wild and free. The words dominate the pages, pushing the images into the background. Somehow, the whole book holds movement, like a Alexander Calder mobile.

What I Like: To me, the book feels like an inspiring Hallmark card or a Psalm or a framed piece of artwork. The message can’t be missed: “Let everything in Heaven and on earth bless and praise God.”

What I Dislike: Nothing. However, since the text is the main focus, I wonder if the illustrations hold enough interest to captivate younger children.

Overall Rating: Very good

Age Appeal: ages 4-8

Publisher Info: Putnam Juvenile, 2011; ISBN:978-0399254789; Hardcover, 32 PGS., $15.99

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Special info: Visit this award-winning author's website.
Read CCBR reviews of other books by Tomie dePaola

Morning Has Broken

Occasionally I come across a picture book so beautifully written and illustrated that I view it as a piece of art. Morning Has Broken is one such book. While the large, bold text (written by Eleanor Farjeon) dances across the pages, the illustrations (done by Tim Ladwig)vividly paint a story of a boy racing to meet his grandfather at the park. It starts with each rising from their respective homes, greeting the morning, and setting out for their rendezvous. On route, both the boy and his grandfather stop to celebrate tiny aspects of God’s glorious creation—flowers, dew, rain. Thus, the book carries an unusual blend of eagerness (to meet) and serenity (in soaking up nature). Likewise, the reader experiences the characters’ onward tugging and slow, savory pauses. Additionally, warm morning light tickles the images, making the book burst with life, praise, and joy.

Adult readers may be familiar with the inspiring poem/hymn, written by Eleanor Farjeon, because pop singer Cat Stevens recorded it years ago. If not, a note about the author at the beginning of the book tells about Farjeon’s background. Plus, the last page of the book has a musical score for the hymn version of the song, taken from “Revised Church Hymnary 1927.”

What I Like: Everything. Ladwig's illustrations are superb. Children may also enjoy spotting the blackbird on all the pages.

What I Dislike: Not a dislike, but parents may have to help younger children interpret the text as it relates to the pictures. (The pictures tell their own story without the need for words.) Also, I would have liked the publisher to include more information about the basis for the poem. Farjeon used Psalm 118:24.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: The publisher lists 9-12, but I think younger kids would love it even more. So I'm going with 4-8 AND 9-12.

Publisher Info: Eerdmans Books For Young Readers, 1996; ISBN:978-0802851321; Paperback, 32 pgs., $8.99.

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $7.19
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My Basket of Blessings

Counting our blessings is what Dr. Mary Manz Simon's My Basket of Blessings (and many reasons to thank God) is all about. This book is die cut to look like a basket, and each page has die cut images of items in the basket, giving a fun layered look. Adding to the attractive appearance are many sparkly images.

The text is well written rhyme and explains how the items in the basket remind us of God. For example, the juicy apples "will never match the sweetness of God's love for me" and the kitten "reminds me of God's caring and of his gentle touch." There's also a scarecrow to remind that God made us, a pumpkin pie, with it's wafting scent, to remind us God's gifts are everywhere, a squirrel whose "chatter now reminds me to share God's love with you," and a teddy bear, who reminds us bears sleep in deep caves and that God is with us day and night. The book ends:

"My basket overflows now the blessings from above.
These precious gifts around me remind me of God's love!"

What I Like: My 2 year old adores this book. He was instantly attracted to the sparkles and the die cast images in this book. The message is simple and the book keeps his attention over and over again.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 4 - 8, but I'd say infant to preschool.

Publishing Info: Standard Publishing, 2010; ISBN: 0784728796; board book, 14 pgs., $12.99

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Special Info: Read 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.

The Berenstain Bears Discover God's Creation

If your kids like television a bit too much, The Berenstain Bears Discover God's Creation might encourage them to play outside more. In this rhyming edition by Stan, Jan, and Mike Berenstain, the young Berenstain cubs are too often glued to the TV, so Mama Bear takes away the remote control. Soon, the young cubs are wondering why TV had such a strong appeal. They've stepped outside into God's creation and feel wonder that he created so many marvelous things. They play with their friends, walk in the rain, and watch the birds, until they exclaim:

"God's creation,
we have found,
has a better picture
and better sound.

And worlds of wonder
all around!
Thanks, Lord,
for this world we've found!"

Finally, the moon comes out and the cubs go home - onto to find Papa watching television.

"Papa! Too much of
that TV slush
will surely turn
your brain to mush!

Come outside,
and you will see
God's creation is much better
than any old TV!"

What I Like: Some of the Berenstain Bears books published by Zonderkidz barely mention God, but that's not the case with this title. Throughout, God is named as the creator of the world, and the bears often thank him for it. If your kids love the Berenstain Bears, as mine do, this is a good addition to their personal library.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: 4 to 8.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz , 2010; ISBN: 978-0310719366; hard back, $6.99

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Special Info: Read our reviews of other Berenstain Bear books.

Hero Tales: A Family Treasury of True Stories from the Lives of Christian Heroes

My children and I have just finished reading Hero Tales by Dave and Neta Jackson for our morning devotions. This inspiring book has prompted many meaningful discussions over breakfast and on the way to school. The book gives an overview of the lives of 45 Christian heroes, and highlights three character attributes exemplified by each hero. Each attribute is covered in a separate, brief story, followed by a description of the attribute, a corresponding Bible verse, and "Let's Talk About It," which lists three discussion questions.

The list of heroes is quite diverse, spanning centuries and continents, and includes missionaries, evangelists, preachers and Bible translators. We read lots of historical information, as well as interesting anecdotes about people such as Harriet Tubman, D.L. Moody, Amy Carmichael, Martin Luther, Hudson Taylor, and William Tyndale.

The Jacksons do a fabulous job integrating historical facts and lessons about character. We learn about trust, repentance, forgiveness, creativity, dedication, and mercy, to name a few. The last question in "Let's Talk About It" is always a personal question, asking children to apply what they are learning to their own lives and relationship with God.

Each chapter includes a brown and white sketch of the person featured.

What I Like: I love the way the Jacksons present historical information and set the stories in context, while still making them exciting and appealing to children. My kids would often remind me to do devotions or be disappointed if we ran out of time. They always wanted to know "what happens next?"

I also appreciate the skillful way the character attributes were worked into the stories. Reading about these heroes' lives was inspiring, but not heavy-handed or didactic. For example, in the story of African missionary, Samuel Morris, we read, "Encouragement helps others do more than they think they can do." The verse is Hebrews 10:25, "You should meet together and encourage each other. Do this even more as you see the day approaching." The last question in this story is "Tell about a time when someone encouraged you to do more than you thought you could do."

What I Dislike: The only complaint I have is the book is heavily slanted towards Protestant heroes. While state churches of several denominations are implicitly criticized, the Roman Catholic church is only mentioned in terms of reforms needed or abuses committed. I wish the Jacksons would have included a couple of Catholic heroes, such as Pope John Paul II or Mother Theresa, in an effort to be more well-rounded.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 6-12

Publisher Info: Bethany House Publishers, 1996; ISBN: 978-0-7642-0078-6; Paperback, $14.99

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