Snuggle Time Prayers

Snuggle Time Prayers by Glenys Nellist is a beautiful board book with simple scripture based prayers for young children.

Glenys Nellist is one of my favorite children's authors. Her writing speaks in a voice that children can hear and understand. Based on her writings, I can picture her having a very safe voice, perfect for the ears of little ones.

Each prayer features a one line verse with a reference. The prayer then reflects the heart of the verse with personal application in a way that little ones can understand.

These prayers can be read one each night, or as in my 4 year old's case, several in a row because he liked them so much.

What I Like: I am big on finding great illustrations in children's books because little ones can see and be pulled in by the pictures before they can read the words. Cee Biscoe's illustrations perfectly match the voice of Glenys in this sweet book. The cover photo is a great example of the illustrations found throughout the book.

What I Dislike: I loved everything about this book.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 2-4 years old.

Publisher Info: ZonderKidz, 2016; ISBN: 978-0310749325; boardbook, 30 pgs., $9.99.

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $8.19
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $9.99

Glimmer Girls: A Dolphin Wish

Glimmer Girls: A Dolphin Wish, by Christian Grammy winning artist Natalie Grant, is the second book in the FaithGirlz Glimmer Girls series.  Once again, Mia and Maddie are solving a mystery  again with their little sister Lulu!  Their mother is a famous singer so the entire family gets to travel with her around the world to her concerts. In the last book they traveled to London.  In this book they travel to the San Diego, California. While there, they visit an amusement park and encounter a mystery involving the animals.  The sisters also deal with feelings of jealousy between them while in San Diego.

What I Like: I appreciate that this book can stand alone from the first book in the series.   You will not be lost at all if you haven't read the first book and decide that you want to start with this one.

If you read my review of the first book, you will remember that I was concerned about  one of the characters sneaking out at night and not receiving consequences.  This disobedience was addressed more thoroughly in this second book.   I also appreciated the family discussions and their reliance on God throughout the book.

What I Dislike:  There was nothing I disliked about this book.

 
Overall Rating: Excellent.
 
Age Appeal: 8-12.
 
Publisher Info: Zonderkidz, 2016; ISBN:0310752531; Paperback, 144 pages, $8.99.

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $7.19
 
Or Buy it at Amazon.com for $7.11.

Special Info: You can read my review of the first book in the series, Glimmer Girls: London Art Chase by clicking here.

Glimmer Girls: London Art Chase

Glimmer Girls: London Art Chase, by Christian Grammy winning music artist Natalie Grant, is the first book in the Faithgirlz Glimmer Girls Series.  Mia and Maddie are 10-year-old twins who fly to London with their little sister Lulu to watch their famous mother Gloria Glimmer sing in concert. While there they encounter a mystery.  The girls and their nanny try to solve who stole art from the National Gallery.

What I Like: I liked the elements of faith that were written throughout the book.  The characters struggled with feelings of jealousy, not fitting in and fear.  These were all addressed with the characters being told to pray and trust in God.

What I Dislike: There is a part in the story where the 10-year-old main character sneaks out of her hotel room in London to try to solve the mystery on her own.  She ends up being okay but I was disappointed that she did not receive consequences for sneaking out and putting herself in danger.  I think this really would have been a good opportunity for a teaching point on honesty, obedience and safety.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 8-12.

Publisher Info: Zonderkidz, 2016; ISBN: 987-0-310-75265-3; Paperback, 208 pgs., $8.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $6.99
 
Or Buy it at Amazon.com for $7.32.

I Can

I Can by Karthryn O'Brien is a bright, colorful and beautifully illustrated book that helps young children understand and memorize scripture.  The book teaches Philippians 4:13, "I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." The verse is broken down simply and the author uses repetition and rhythm to facilitate the memorization.  The author gives examples of how each part of the verse connects with a child's everyday life.

What I Like: I love that this book helps young children to apply scripture to their own lives.  With the colorful and relevant pictures children will be able to immediately connect the Bible to their own experiences.

I love that this book not only teaches the scripture but also develops a love for the Lord and scripture early on in a child's life.  I think that Philippians 4:13 is a foundational verse that all children should have memorized!

What I Dislike: There was nothing that I disliked. 

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 3-6 years old.

Publisher Info: Tyndale House Publishers, 2016; ISBN: 978-1496411174; Hardcover, 32 pages; $14.91.

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $11.99

or

 Buy it at Amazon.com for $14.91.

Please and Thank You God: Prayers For Family & Events

Please and Thank You, God! prayers can be used and enjoyed alone or together as a family during many different occasions and events throughout the year. Included in this book, you’ll also find prayers for your family, friends, religious holidays and more.

What I Like: Prayers for Family and Events is a must-have for any parent looking for a way to teach their children to pray easily. Each colorful and whimsically illustrated two-page layout focuses on an important person in the reader's life (like parents and friends) or an occasion, like holidays (Christmas, Easter) or a birthday.

Each two-page layout includes a "Thank You" to God where children are giving thanks to for the blessing he has provided and a "Please" portion where children submit petitions unto the Lord. The please portion includes scripture.

For example, the Easter Page prayer thanks "Jesus for suffering on the cross for my sins and rising again," and asks God to "Please help me share the good news of Easter with others," followed by a short scripture about rejoicing in Jesus's resurrection.

Each prayer is short (only a few sentences) and includes a short verse that correlates with the prayer, so children are praying and learning scripture. I love the illustrations, also by Agnes de Bezenac, that help bring the pages to life.

What I Dislike: I always prefer to see the bible version when I see scripture. It's not included in this book, but it doesn't take away from the book.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 8 and under.

Publisher Info: iCharacter.org, 2014; ISBN:978-1623871970 ; Paperback, 32 pgs., $8.49

Buy it at Amazon.com for $8.49

Other Prayer Books in the series
Prayers Before Bed and Prayers Throughout the Day

Additional Info: Author Page www.iCharacter.org

The Only Gift

The Only Gift put out by the Children's Bible Hour is a very reflective story reminding us and our children that the only gift Jesus wants from us is ourselves.

The Sunday school children are putting on a short Christmas play for their parents. Rather than going with the usual "Nativity scene" skit, the class chooses to do a skit where they bring gifts to Jesus- trophies they have earned in sports, music they have written, foods they enjoy eating, and a television they enjoy spending time watching. However, none of these gifts are what Jesus wants. Then one little boy stands before Jesus and offers himself to Jesus because it is all he has. This is the gift Jesus wants.

What I Like: This book offered a lot of opportunity for my 8 year old and I to talk about what we have to offer Jesus, how often we make other things in our lives idols, and how we need to make our lives a gift for Him.

I also love that this book comes with a CD. It gives children a chance to listen to the story as a radio show the way this story was originally intended.

The illustrations by Joel Spector were perfectly done. They certainly add to the story and do not take away from it in any way.

What I Dislike: I loved everything about this book.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 5-12 years old.

Publisher Info: CBH Ministries, 2012; ISBN: 978-0-9855560-1-3; paperback, 32 pgs., $10.00

Available through Keys for Kids Ministries $10.00

Rocky Hill Fireman, Book #1: Fire!

Rocky Hill Fireman, Book #1:  Fire! by James Burd Brewster is a great book for any child who aspires to be a fire fighter when he or she grows up.

Rocky Hill is the name of the main hero of the story. He and two other fire fighters, Big Joe and Bob, are called into action to help a family whose home has caught on fire. Rocky is tasked with going into the home to locate a sleeping baby. In the end, the fire fighters and baby are all safe and sound.

What I Like: It is so important for our children to view our civil servants as being friendly, helpful, and safe. This book does exactly that.

I love finding books that completely engage my children. This book did just that. Both my 8 year old and 4 year old were completely caught up in the world and rescue mission of Rocky Hill.

The illustrations by Dayna Barley-Cohrs fit this book perfectly. Although they appear to be hand drawn and painted with watercolors, they are tastefully done, and are a perfect complement to the story.

What I Dislike: Although this is a Christian book, the name "God" is mentioned two times on the very last page. Once when the mother says, "Thank God you came in time," and the narrator states, "He also thanked God."

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8 years old.

Publisher Info: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2013; ISBN: 978-1484837177; paperback, 32 pgs., $29.99

Buy it at Amazon.com for $29.99

God's Special Forces: A Manual for Becoming a Young Woman of Quality

Gods Special Forces: A Manual for Becoming a Young Woman of Quality by Darlene Laney is a workbook for teaching preteens the basics of hygiene, self care, and etiquette is a way that reminds them they have been created by God for a purpose.

Each chapter gives a brief Bible stud/ devotion and then dives into the specifics of practical advice. The chapters are titled:

• A New Look
• The Beginning
• Face Facts
• Value of a Woman
• Standing, Sitting & Walking
• Care of Self
• Skin Care
• Body Care
• Etiquette 101
• Accentuate the Positive
• Putting It All Together
• Last Word
• I'm Committed

At the end of the workbook, girls are encouraged to sign a commitment that they are going to apply the lessons and principles they have learned in this book.

What I Like: Growing up, I had a little book that I read and reread about character and beauty. This book has the possibility of being that for my daughter. It teaches girls how to beautiful from the inside out. After teaching girls that God has created them for a special purpose, it shows them what hairstyle suits their facial structure best, how to eat specific foods when in a group setting, and how to greet people they are meeting for the first time.

What I Dislike: I loved everything about this book.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 8-14-year-olds

Publisher Info: Halo Publishing International, 2013; ISBN: 978-1-61244-126-9 ; paperback, 120 pgs., $16.95

Buy it at Amazon.com for $16.95!

The Story of Jesus

There are two possible covers for this book.

The Story of Jesus put out by Flowerpot Press is a colorful board book designed to give children a synopsis of the Life of Christ.

The book begins with the birth of Jesus, highlights His teachings and miracles, touches on his death and resurrection, and ends with his ascension into Heaven.

What I Like: This book gives children a glimpse of the life of Christ. It was definitely written with the young child in mind. His story is told in such a way that very young children can easily understand it.

The illustrations are child friendly. Except for the picture of his birth, Jesus is depicted in a red robe so young children can pick him out in the illustrations immediately.

What I Dislike: Unfortunately, the shipping is going to cost more than the book itself.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 3-5 year olds

Publisher Info: Flowerpot Press, 2011; ISBN: 978-1-897533-75-8; board book , 16 pgs., $0.01 + $3.99 S&H

Buy it at Amazon.com for $0.01

Daniel and the Lions

Daniel and the Lions (Bible Story Time) by Sophie Piper is a sweet little booklet perfect for little hands.

Toddlers and preschoolers need to hear Bible stories that are written in a language they understand, and this booklet fits the bill. The The story is told in such a way that little ones will fully understand the account.

What I Like: Illustrations are always a huge selling point for me, and Estelle Corke has done a great job making the pictures simple but beautifully engaging for little people. Each illustration perfectly fits the section of the story it depicts.

As I have mentioned, this book is the size of a booklet, perfect for little hands that want to hold it for themselves.

What I Dislike: I really like this book.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 2-5-year-olds

Publisher Info: Lion Children's Book, 2014; ISBN: 978-0-7459-6359-4; paperback, 32 pgs., $2.99


Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $2.49

OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $2.29

Hooked on the Book

Hooked On The Book: Patrick's Adventures Through the Books of the Bible (Morgan James Kids) by Liz and Jack Hagler is a chock full of great information put in a kid friendly way to give children a great overview of what is contained in each book of the Bible.

Each large comic strip styled page of this 96 page book gives a fantastic overview of each book of the Bible along with little tidbits and great connections to give kids not only a book by book view but the overall thread that starts in Genesis and ends in Revelation.

The book is broken into chapters to give logical places to stop to keep children (and adults) from being overwhelmed by all of the content

I do not usually like busy pages in kids books, but the busyness of the pages in this book works.  So much information is given concerning each book of the Bible, I think the authors chose the best format to present it.

What I Like: As a homeschool mom, I try to teach both of my children the same information as much as possible. I was able to read this book to both of my children (ages 4 and 8), and they were both equally engaged.

I also really liked the illustrations. They appear to be hand drawn but they really work with the style of this book. Some of the information has been cleverly inserted into the illustrations, which kept me looking at the pages long after I had read the actual words.

What I Dislike: I really liked this book.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 6-12 years old

Publisher Info: Hagler Publishing, 2011; ISBN: 978-0-615-46549-4; hardcover, 96 pgs., $19.95


Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $17.96

OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $14.14


 

The Play- Along Bible

My almost four-year-old daughter Ella loved the Play-Along Bible by Bob Hartman!  


Before we even had a chance to read it to her, my daughter loved looking at it on her own during her "nap" time in her bed. The colorful and kid-friendly illustrations by Susie Poole invited her into this hardcover storybook. There were 50 carefully chosen stories from both the Old and New Testament that each had a beautiful drawing to accompany it.

At bedtime, my husband always reads to my daughter. She has several different Bibles and devotionals that we have used. What was different about this book was the multi-sensory approach.  Each story had motions that the parent models as they are reading to encourage the child to participate with during the story. 

For example, while reading the story of Noah, in parentheses the book guides the parent by telling them when to encourage the child to make motions. They suggest the reader make animal noises, slap their hands on their legs to mimic the sound of the rain coming down, pretend they are hammering like Noah building the ark and more!
 
What I Like: I like how this Bible storybook will hit more than one of your child's senses when reading this book. Not all children learn the same. Some are visual learners and will learn best through looking at the pictures. Some are auditory learners and will learn best through hearing the story read to them. These two types of learners can have their needs met through most Bible storybooks. I liked how this Bible storybook meets the needs of the kinaesthetic learner who learns best through movement. These learners are often left out with traditional storybooks. This book would not disappoint. It is a great way to enhance a child's understanding of God's Word at a young age.
 
What I Dislike:  Nothing
 
Overall Rating: Excellent
 
Age Appeal: 3-6 years old
 
Publisher Info: Tyndale Kids,  2015;  ISBN: 978-1-4964-0864-8 ; Hardcover, 104 pgs.,  $12.99

Buy it Now at ChristianBook.com for $10.99
OR Buy it  at Amazon for $12.99

Love From a Star

Author Katherine Cutchin Gazzetta provides the perfect bedtime story for toddlers and preschoolers with her book Love From a Star.  The story shows a bear with two sidekicks—a floppy bunny and an elusive frog—as they look to the stars at night.  The overall message is simple: Wherever you are, whatever you face, God is there. Just look for His star.

Each two-page spread hosts two lines of text and an accompanying picture.  The text does rhyme, but the rhyme is split between pages. (For example, one page in the spread says, “You see, God put me here/ to watch over you.” The rest of that stanza is found when you turn the page: “ to love you and guide you,/ in all that you do.”)

Gazzetta also does the illustrations, which are, in my opinion, the best part of the book. The watercolor images are charming, whimsical, and fluid. The coloring is bold in hue and yet soft in execution.

Extra note: According to Amazon, the 2013 version of the book comes with a pack of glow-in-the-dark stars. However, I did not receive any stars with the book, so I am uncertain if this is true or not for the 2015 version.

What I Like: The illustrations are a big selling point for me.  Gazzetta does a nice job of wooing the reader with her images. The text is also short enough that the book can hold the attention of preschoolers and toddlers.

What I Dislike: I was a little confused over the idea that God puts stars in place to watch over us, and by the thought that a star could love someone (“Know that your star loves you tonight'").  While it is a heartwarming thought, I don’t see any Scriptural basis for this concept, which, in my mind, gives me pause. However, I am certain with an explanation that the stars are a reminder of God’s love (which I assume is the intention of the writer), then it would be just fine.

Overall Rating: Excellent (if the reader takes into mind what I mentioned about stars)

Age Appeal: None is provided, but the simplicity of the text suggests a younger audience, toddlers through preschool and perhaps up to Kindergarten age

Publisher Info: Sleeping Bear Press, 2015; ISBN: 978-0989206716; Hardcover and Kindle, 32 pgs., $14.99

This book is not currently available at Christianbook.com.

Buy the HARDCOVER VERSION at Amazon.com for $14.99 or the KINDLE VERSION for $14.24.

The One Year Devotions for Active Boys

Research shows the more hands-on the activity, the more engaged the learner and the more likely the learner is to retain the information. That’s one good reason to check out The One-Year Devotions for Active Boys by Jesse Florea and Karen Whiting.

Although each of the 365 devotions look like they are set up in a typical way—date/ title, a short story to interest the reader, and a line or two of Scripture—they contain a refreshing added element that makes the book uniquely not-so-typical! Tween boys are encouraged to connect to the spiritual messages through activities which include visual puzzles called ‘plexers”, codes, recipes, jokes, experiments, weird (and interesting) facts, checklists, quizzes, tongue twisters, and more!

The best part about this book is what it can do. Since the devotions are short, fun, and interesting, it can help youngsters establish a habit of giving thought to Heavenly things each morning… and to carry what they learn with them throughout the day.

What I Like: The price is reasonable, the activities are fun, and the writing is solid.

What I Dislike: I don’t like that the audience seems limited to BOYS. I would have loved an activity based devotional book like this. So just because it says its for boys, don’t rule it out for your girl! I also wish there was a little bit more Scripture offered each day, but that’s a minor complaint. The authors also call the passages “Life’s Guidebook” instead of the Bible, which may be off-putting to some.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 8-12

Publisher Info: Tyndale House, 2014; ISBN: 9781414394046; Paperback, 384 pgs., $14.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $11.99
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $12.14.

Special Info: Jesse Florea has another devotional book for kids who love sports. You can buy the Kindle version of The One Year Sports Devotions for Kids for $9.70 or the paperback version for $10.21.

Goodnight Manger

Goodnight, Manger, written by Laura Sassi and illustrated by New York Times bestselling artist Jane Chapman, tells the story of Mary and Joseph as they try to lull Jesus to sleep in the noisy stable after his birth. It's bedtime for Baby Jesus, but who knew a manger could be so loud? Mama, Papa, and all of the animals try to lull the baby to sleep, but between itchy hay, angels' joyful hosannas, and three kings bearing noisy gifts, it's just too loud. Until Mama finds a way for everyone to work together to shepherd Baby into peaceful dreams under the twinkling stars. With sweet, rhyming text in the style of Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site, Goodnight, Manger offers a unique twist on the classic manger tale, deftly weaving together the comforting and familiar routines of bedtime with the special magic and wonder of the manger story.

What I Like: A cleverly written rhyming book, Goodnight Manger, by Laura Sassi, is such a cute book. Have you ever wondered what life was really like for Mary and Joseph in the manger with non-stop visitors and animals everywhere? Goodnight Manger paints a wonderful picture that will make you smile. The illustrations by Jane Chapman are adorable and are a nice compliment to the book. This is definitely a new family favorite for my household.

What I Dislike: Nothing

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 4-8 yrs

Publisher Info: Zonderkidz, 2015; ISBN: 978-0310745563; Hardcover; 32 pgs., $16.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $9.49

OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $10.16

101 Things Every Girl Should Know: Expert Advice on Stuff Big and Small

The editors of Faithgirlz and Girls’ Life magazine do it again with another installment in the hit Faithgirlz series. 101 Things Every Girl Should Know is chock full of advice for girls in their tweens. It offers a collection of suggestions on everything from success in the classroom (how to write an essay, ace a test, handle stress, remember anything, read aloud in class) to relationships (how to keep a secret, talk to any guy, be the star at the party) to health issues (busting a bad habit, curing acne, tasty recipes, boosting energy) and more!

The book has a magazine layout and appeal—tons of brightly colored photographs, concise “articles” ranging in length from a single paragraph to two pages, and relevant topics.  There is variety in the entries too. Some are quizzes, recipes, or even directions for how to do something. It is completely readable in small chunks or huge blocks of time! This book would make a great gift for any young teen/tween in your life.

If you like this book, you might want to check out other books in the Faithgirlz series, including Faithgirlz Handbook, Updated and Expanded: How to Let Your Faith Shine Through, Best Hair Book Ever!: Cute Cuts, Sweet Styles and Tons of Tress Tips (Faithgirlz), and Big Book of Quizzes: Fun, Quirky Questions for You and Your Friends (Faithgirlz).

What I Like: Everything. I wish I had a book like this when I was growing up. The tips are helpful and easy to use. I can see how reading this would help boost a girl’s confidence about handling the challenges they face daily. This book would even be appreciated by mainstream readers.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 8-12 (Although I think it could go a bit older).

Publisher Info: Zonderkidz, 2015; ISBN: 978-0310746195; Paperback, 128 pgs., $14.99.

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $10.49.
 
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $10.37.

Grandma's Christmas Wish

For Grandmas looking for a meaningful gift to give a grandchild that just oozes with love, check out Grandma’s Christmas Wish by Helen Foster James.

The story features interactions between a gray-haired grandma bunny and her copper-haired grandchild. Over and over, the doting grandma reassures her little one that baby bunny’s love is the best gift Grandma could receive. She says, “But you with your grin/ and all of your charms,/ you’re my best present,/ just wrapped in my arms.” Throughout the book, Grandma and Bunny frolic, snuggle, and play in the wintery landscape.

Each two-page spread holds four lines of the large lettered rhyming text surrounded by what looks to be watercolor and ink illustrations. And what beautiful illustrations they are!  Created by Petra Brown, these pictures are laced with memorable Christmas time images, including a starry, moonlit night, powdery snow, pine trees and holly, charming woodland creatures, and earthy decorations.

The last two-page spread of the book allows Grandmas to personalize the gift. Branches border the left side and frame a page of blank lines. It’s entitled “A Special Letter to My Grandchild”. The right hand side is likewise framed  but is open for pasting pictures of Grandma (or perhaps Grandma and Grandchild).

What I Like: Oftentimes it is difficult to write lyrical lines well. Thankfully, this author is able to make the meter and rhyme in this story work! It’s crafted in a singsong manner that makes it easy to read. Even so, the illustrations are what I LOOOOVVVEE most. WOW! They are whimsical and endearing. The pictures alone make this book worth its asking price.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: Preschool- grade 1.

Publisher Info: Sleeping Bear Press, 2015; ISBN: 978-1585369188; Hardback and Kindle, 32 pgs., $15.99
This book is currently not offered by Christianbook.com.

Buy it at Amazon.com for $14.39 or buy the Kindle version for $13.67.

Special Info: Grandmas might also enjoy another book by James starring the same two bunnies called Grandma Loves You! It's $11.45 for the hardcover version, or it's $9.99 for the Kindle version. Grandpas, you don't have to miss out on the fun! James offers a book just for you called Grandpa Loves You! It's $12.89 for the hardcover version, and it's $12.25 for the Kindle Version.

Lori Gives Thanks for Just Sayin'

Life sure has its ups and downs, but what I have learned this year more than any other is that God is with us through it all... and for that I am extremely thankful! That means He can carry my burdens, guide my way, and surround me with people to encourage me. Not only that, His faithful love allows me to turn right back around and be a blessing to them!

This Thanksgiving, I have to straight out acknowledge that I am thankful for my family and friends, my joys AND my sorrows, my victories AND defeats. Through all these things, God works for our good and His glory.

Looking back over recent reviews, I picked a devotional book to highlight called

Just Saying: Write 'Em, Draw 'Em, Hide 'Em In Your Heart. In my review, I stated this: I am one of those people who love to doodle. Rarely does a piece of paper pass through my hands without some kind of embellishment added. So I was immediately drawn into (pardon the pun) the format of the book. So often, students are offered a left-brain approach to studying Scripture (or doing schoolwork for that matter). This right-brain approach is refreshing. I want to say, “Finally… a devotion geared for people like me… someone who colored the entire surface of her desk in second grade (without teacher consent) and turned in a cartoon strip for her final project in a college course (with teacher consent).”

You can read the full review HERE. 

What I Like: Just about everything since it's a unique approach to devotions for the artistically inclined.

What I Dislike: The verses are presented raw, with little or no explanation or context provided. Therefore, I believe it may be best suited for those familiar with and well rooted in the stories of the Bible. Also, I am not one who likes slang, and the book uses a lot of it. To me, the book would be just as enjoyable but have a longer shelf life if it used quality vocabulary!

Overall Rating: Excellent
Age Appeal: 8-12 (although it may appeal to those older than designated age group).
Publisher Info: Zondervan, 2014; ISBN: 9780310742982 ; Paperback, 192 pgs., $9.99.

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $8.19
OR Buy the version geared for boys, Dare U 2 Open This Book: Draw It, Write It, Dare 2 Live It, for $8.19 
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $8.92.
OR Buy the version geared for boys, Dare U 2 Open This Book: Draw It, Write It, Dare 2 Live It for $8.82. 

Kristina Gives Thanks for The Jesus Storybook Bible

The last few years haven't been the easiest for my family. We've struggled with health issues, money issues (paychecks don't go as far as they used to!), feelings of isolation from our family, and feelings of betrayal from people we thought were friends. But, boy, have we grown spiritually! I'm thankful for the fact that now, as a family, we are more focused than ever on God. I'm also thankful we are working toward a long time dream: To move away from the suburbs (and a city that seems less and less family friendly) and into a rural area. God willing, by next year we'll be living very near family, in the middle of God's beautiful forest.

But this a blog is about books. I am certainly thankful, as I pack the gazillion books we own, that we have such easy, ready access to books. And as I learn about people throughout the world whose governments make owning a Bible illegal, I'm thankful that I have multiple copies of the Bible. But the Bible I may be most thankful for is The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd Jones (and illustrations by Jago). Not only has this children's Bible storybook been a huge blessing for my children - teaching them important, deep spiritual truths - but it's taught me a lot about the Bible, too. And I'm not the only adult who feels this way. In fact, so many adults wrote to Jones about The Jesus Storybook Bible, that she created a version just for adults, called The Story of God's Love For You.

What I Like: I absolutely love how Jones goes way beyond mere retelling of Bible stories in The Jesus Storybook Bible. She not only links all the stories included in the book to Jesus, but she manages to express spiritual truths in such a simple, easy to understand way. I cannot recommend this book enough.

What I Dislike: Nothing!

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: Toddlers through adults.

 
Publisher Info: Zondervan, 2007; ISBN: 978-0310708254; hardback, 352 pgs., $17.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $5.99
  
Or Buy it at Amazon.com for $9.98.

When No One Is Watching

When No One is Watching by Eileen Spinelli and illustrated by David A. Johnson is a sweet book depicting the inner mind of the shy child.

The little girl on the cover of this beautifully illustrated picture book has all of the spunk and imagination in the world.... when no one is watching. The prose takes the reader through different scenarios in the little girl's day. She is fun, happy, expressive, and in everything until she is around others. Then she becomes quiet and hangs back.

As the mother of a shy boy, this book was a perfect look into his personality. This a definite must for any parent of a shy child.

What I Like: I love the illustrations in this book. They are spunky and full of life and yet so beautifully show the withdraw of the shy child in a larger setting. Children will definitely be able to relate to the illustrations, which will hopefully encourage the shy child to dialogue with their parents.

I especially love that at the end of the story, it is revealed that this shy girl is not shy around everyone. She has one special friend who she can be herself with in complete safety. It is so true to life since shy children do have that small handful of people they feel safe with to be themselves.

What I Dislike: I really liked this book.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8 years.

Publisher Info: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2013; ISBN: 978-0802853035; hardcover, 26 pgs., $16.00

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