A Gingerbread House by Julie Lavender

A GINGERBREAD HOUSE by Julie Lavender

A little girl and her grandfather make sweet memories creating and decorating a gingerbread house.

But wait – something’s missing!

Will the pair of bakers figure out what’s missing from their masterpiece? 

 Written in rhyme, the rollicking story takes the creation from dough to completion in a tale that tantalizes all five senses and brings joy to the two bakers, as well as the readers!

MY REVIEW: The holiday season is almost here and this is a wonderful new book to add to the family library. Julie Lavender's latest is a durable hard cover book with delightful illustrations by Kim Barnes.The recommended reading level is for 6-10 year olds, which coincidentally is an age when kids like to help in the kitchen. I see "A Gingerbread House" as part of a new family tradition of making gingerbread, and reading the book while you wait for your cake or cookies to bake. There's something special about making sweet memories with your children or grandchildren while making sweet treats to enjoy. Having the book to enjoy anytime keep those memories fresh.

Disclosure: I received a copy from the author for review purposes with no guarantee of a good review. All opinions are my own.

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The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

The Herdman kids are absolutely the worst. They lie, they steal, they bully...and they’ve hijacked the town Christmas pageant. 

Directed by Dallas Jenkins (“The Chosen”) and based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for snacks and walk away with the lead roles in the town pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very first time; she and her daughter Beth (Molly Belle Wright) and husband Bob (Pete Holmes) are less than amused. But the play’s mischievous stars might unwittingly teach a community the true meaning of Christmas. Featuring Lauren Graham. Screenplay by Ryan Swanson and Platte F. Clark & Darin McDaniel.

The newest film from Lionsgate and Kingdom Story Company is based on the beloved children’s classic book. As of November 2023, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson has sold more than 7 million copies since its publication in 1972. Get ready for Christmas by watching this film with your family in theaters starting November 8! BUY TICKETS TODAY!!

Want to see this with a group of family and friends? Check the website for GROUP TICKETS! The more the merrier!!

My Review: "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" has been a family classic for 50+ years, beginning with the book by Barbara Robinson. I also remember how much my family loved the made-for-TV movie in 1983. If you loved those, you want to see this latest version directed by Dallas Jenkins (The Chosen). It's a timeless story that any age can relate to that brings both laughter and tears.

The rowdy Herdman kids only come to church for the snacks, but their curiosity opens the opportunity to share the story of the birth of Jesus and why Christians celebrate. We sometimes forget that others around us may not know the real meaning of Christmas. This film is highly entertaining, and a reminder that Christmas is a time to share...not just tangible gifts, but the message of the love of Jesus for all people. Don't miss this one!

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card!
(Note: This is limited to US winners only.) Please submit your FULL name and email address by 11/16/2024. via THIS LINK.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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The Carpenter

 

THE CARPENTER is a powerful tale of transformation and redemption. Set in biblical times this film showcases a life-changing journey of becoming a carpenter’s apprentice to none other than Jesus Christ. Through the timeless skills of carpentry, a path of compassion and redemption is found.

This story does bring a more unconventional take on a man who was influenced by Jesus. Oren (Kameron Krebs) is a Viking who was orphaned as a child, but adopted by a couple living in Cana. Oren grew up to be a skilled fighter and his [adopted] brother Levi (Kaulin Krebs) coached him. When their father died, Oren was encouraged to go to Jerusalem for more fighting opportunities. He soon met Jesus (Jeff Dickamore), and became a carpenter's apprentice, too.

THE CARPENTER is currently in theaters: TICKETS

 MY REVIEW: "The Carpenter" does bring a unique look at the life of Jesus just before the beginning of His ministry. There were a couple of things that didn't quite line up with my idea of life in 1st Century A.D. Jerusalem, but I could overlook most.

I can see the appeal for teens and adults who love MMA, wrestling, and any other related sports. I didn't think the violence was overboard, so it depends on the child when it comes to viewing age. There are lessons learned throughout and Oren is certainly influenced by his time with Jesus. Sometimes seeds are planted or conversations started, but it's also a clean film with no bad language or sexual innuendo to distract from the message. I didn't love it, but I do see merit in it for others. Directed by Garrett Batty and written by Kameron Krebs and Kenny Krebs.

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card
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Disclosure: Many thanks to Three Coin Productions for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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Lost on a Mountain in Maine

Lost on a Mountain in Maine - The inspiring true story of 12-year-old Donn Fendler who, separated from his family by a fast-moving storm, must fight to stay alive while lost for nine-days in the remote wilderness of northern Maine. Donn’s disappearance captures national headlines and sparks a massive search effort attracting hundreds of volunteers, including his own father who fears he may never see his son again. 

Buy tickets today to see Lost on a Mountain in Maine in theaters starting November 1st! Tickets

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My Review: This is a wonderful film for the family to watch! A true story from July 1939, 12 year old Donn Fendler Jr. along with his twin brother and their younger brother, went with their father to hike Mount Katahdin in Maine. Due to bad weather, Mr. Fendler, the guide, and 2 of the boys turned back, but Donn stubbornly moved forward, eventually losing sight of the trail markers. This recount of his remarkable journey alone, without food or adequate clothing, for nine days is almost too incredible to be true. Yet his disappearance captured the attention and prayers of the nation and has been taught to Maine schoolchildren for decades. I was drawn into the story and hope to see this film become a classic.

There were a few instances of mild language during interviews of actual people who were interviewed, but barely noticeable. I loved the documentary style these interviews gave to the film. I especially love the actual black and white footage included at the end. All of the actors were wonderful, but I especially enjoyed Paul Sharp as Donn Feldner Sr.

(On a side note, I saw Paul Sharp's name listed on a video clip from "The Crown" on YouTube last night. His performance as Rev. Billy Graham was outstanding! I will be watching for more of his films.)

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Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card (limited to US winners only).
Please submit your full name and email address by 11/2/24.

Disclaimer: Many thanks to WIT PR for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

BONUS: Donn Fendler reflects on the 75th anniversary of his being ‘Lost on a Mountain in Maine’

Average Joe

"Average Joe" is based on the true story of high school football coach, Joe Kennedy. For most of his life, Joe had no other choice but to fight. A childhood in foster care followed by 20 years in the Marine Corps was nothing compared to his biggest battle: his commitment to stand for God publicly by taking a knee in prayer after each game. When he was fired, Joe and his wife Denise knew this battle for religious freedom, freedom of speech, and the rights of all Americans was one they would have to fight—no matter the cost. From the director and producers of God’s Not Dead and the producers of The Blind comes AVERAGE JOE, in theaters beginning October 11.
 

In theaters now! BUY TICKETS!

MY REVIEW: I remember the many news stories about the case of the high school coach being fired for praying, so I already had a high interest in watching this story. What I did not expect was the touches of humor that brought this story to another level for me. Eric Close and Amy Acker give stellar performances as Joe and Denise Kennedy, in both the comedy and the drama. Since their story began in childhood, all of the actors who portrayed Joe and Denise throughout the years are excellent actors.

The abuse that Joe and Denise suffered and witnessed from childhood gives a deeper look at what they endured to become adults with strength to endure a battle and the moments of doubt. "Average Joe" is a film that I highly recommend to teens and adults. Younger viewers will not follow the story as well. Director Harold Cronk and writer Stephanie Katz are to be commended for this film.

Buy tickets today to see Average Joe in theaters!

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card. Please submit your name and email address no later than 10/17/2024 to be entered. Note: This is limited to US winners only.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Average Joe for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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Lost on a Mountain in Maine trailer

"Lost on a Mountain in Maine" is the incredibly true story of 12-year-old Donn Fendler who, separated from his family by a fast-moving storm, must fight to stay alive while lost for nine-days in the remote wilderness of northern Maine. Donn’s disappearance captures national headlines and sparks a massive search effort attracting hundreds ofvolunteers, including his own father who fears he may never see his son again.

Based on the book by Donn Fendler, this film adaptation is produced by Sylvester Stallone, directed by Andrew Boodhoo Kightlinger, and Luke Paradise wrote the screenplay. The cast includes Luke David Blumm (Donn Fendler), Paul Sparks (Mr. Fendler), Caitlin FitzGerald (Mrs. Fendler), Griffin Wallace Henkel, and Ethan Slater.

Watch the trailer:

The film is scheduled for release on November 1, 2024. It is rated PG for mild language, thematic elements, peril, and some injury elements.

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White Bird

WHITE BIRD is now in theaters! The next chapter from the world of Wonder, which sparked a movement to "choose kind." After being expelled from school due to his treatment of Auggie Pullman, Julian (Bryce Gheisar is visited by his grandmother (Helen Mirren). After she shares the story of her childhood attempts to escape Nazi-occupied France, Julian is transformed by the tales of heroic and compassionate neighbors in the midst of unfathomable cruelty of others. Directed by Marc Forster, WHITE BIRD reminds us to be brave and choose kind.

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MY REVIEW: This film brings a poignant reminder of how there are still kind and compassionate people willing to risk their lives for others. On the flip side, we're also reminded of the cruelty of people who become inflamed by hatred based on bigotry. Do you need to have seen "Wonder" to follow the story? No.

I believe this is the first film I have watched about Nazi-occupied France, so it was a slightly different angle for me. The story kept my interest and is suitable for kids as young as 12, in my opinion. There are violent scenes, but nothing too graphic. Not only is it a conversation starter about world history, but a teaching moment about choosing to be kind despite the chaos and short tempers of people around you (and online). I do recommend seeing this film while it's in theaters.

Website: Whitebird.movie

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card
(US winners only.) Please submit your full name and email address by 10/14 via comment or message.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.