Tuesday, April 16, 2019

Psalms For Little Hearts

Psalms for Little Hearts written by Dandi Daley Mackall and illustrated by Cee Biscoe is a rhyming paraphrase of 25 of the best-loved Psalms.

Features:
  • 25 rhyming Psalms are written just for your little one
  • Topical table of contents helps you find the right Psalm for every occasion
  • Beautiful, kid-friendly, four-color illustrations throughout make Scripture accessible
  • Scripture from the original Psalms bring you and your child back to the Bible
My Review: A small but powerful package that is sure to delight any child in your life. I love the size (5.5 x 6.625) because it is perfect to hold in one hand while cuddling one of my great-grandkids in my lap. The kids love looking at the pictures (and I do too!) but still listen to what I am reading to them. This is wonderful for both morning devotions and bedtime prayers. The selected Psalms focus on Joy, Hope, and Praise; these are perfect for teaching our little ones about the love God has for them and why we praise Him. Whether using snippets from each chapter or using a whole Psalm... this book can be used for years. It is adaptable to use with toddlers on up to children who can read it for themselves. I highly recommend it!
 
DISCLAIMER: Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. I was not asked to give a positive interview and all opinions are my own.
 



Tuesday, April 9, 2019

So Much the Better - Megan Means

So Much the Better by Megan Means is a children's chapter book that engages the interest of an elementary school-aged child through the adventures of "Ari," a lion cub who is separated from his mom and the rest of his tribe during a terrible storm. Ari meets Eliezer, a golden eagle promises to guide him as he tries to be reunited with his mother.

As he travels through the forest there are times Eliezer is out of sight, but he has assured Ari, "Even when you don't see me you must have faith I am close." The eagle also advises the cub to stay near the stream.

Along the way, Ari meets many other animals. Some are friends and some are not. But he continues to grow physically and with wisdom as he and those who become his companions finally reach his homeland. But, this is not the end of his journey: hard times and fierce enemies threaten the pride. Ari must use the lessons he has learned as he faces his hardest battle.

This story reminds me of Pilgrim's Progress in many ways and the parables Jesus shared. I love the Biblical truths that are spread throughout the book and the way they can connect with children through unforgettable characters and adventures. 


Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Discover more at MeganMeansAuthor.com

Thursday, April 4, 2019

Unplanned

All Abby Johnson ever wanted to do was help women. As one of the youngest Planned Parenthood clinic directors in the nation, she was involved in upwards of 22,000 abortions and counseled countless women about their reproductive choices. Her passion surrounding a woman’s right to choose even led her to become a spokesperson for Planned Parenthood, fighting to enact legislation for the cause she so deeply believed in.

Until the day she saw something that changed everything, leading Abby Johnson to 
join her former enemies at 40 Days For Life, and become one of the most ardent 
pro-life speakers in America.


Unplanned was directed by Chuck Konzelman and Cary Solomon and had outstanding performances by Ashley Bratcher as Abby and Robia Scott as Cheryl, a few surprising cameos, and other talented actors (including my friends Todd Terry and Stacey Bradshaw). Many were shocked when it's successful opening weekend landed it in 4th place overall. This has led to more theaters bringing it in this week! I thought Unplanned did well in presenting Abby Johnson's story and how her views on abortion were changed. I have always been pro-life, even before Roe vs Wade, so I admit to some bias when it comes to abortion. This film actually gave me a deeper understanding of the motives of some of the workers in the abortion industry who genuinely believe they are doing a service for women, and even the babies. I still disagree with what they do but am willing to concede that some are well-intentioned. 

The story was well told, and while some scenes were graphic, abortion is not a neat, tidy procedure... nor is it an unemotional one for most women. These are living humans who are being destroyed before they have the chance to draw their first breath. The very first scene, which was the catalyst for Johnson leaving Planned Parenthood, makes a powerful impact that still lingers in my mind... even knowing that it is CGI. And, I do have friends who faint at the sight of blood, but scenes that include blood are not put in the film for shock; these scenes accurately portray what sometimes happens. Of course, there are also scenes that hit hard on an emotional level. I rarely cry at a theater, but one, in particular, had tears running down my face.

My hope is that many will see the film, no matter their personal views, just to see this side of the story. It's hard to make an informed intelligent decision if you close your eyes to certain aspects. If you support abortion, I hope the film causes you to reconsider; if your view remains unchanged, I hope you at least have a greater understanding of the views of those who believe the unborn child has value. I highly recommend this film for adults and sexually active teens.


Go see this movie! 
For more information:
UnplannedFilm.com

Unplanned on IMDb 
Unplanned on Facebook 
Follow @UnplannedMovie on Twitter 
UnplannedMovie on Instagram 
Resources
AbbyJohnson.org 
40 Days For Life 


Tuesday, April 2, 2019

The Pilgrim's Progress


Many of us are familiar with John Bunyan's classic allegory, The Pilgrim's Progress. The book has never been out of print since it was published in the 1670s. The new animated film being released next month covers Part 1... Christian Pilgrim's journey to The Celestial City. [Part 2 covers his wife and children, but isn't as well known as the first.]

Check out the trailer:



I have seen the movie and love it. The animation was very well done and the story was captivating. From Revelation Media studio, the film features the voice talent of John Rhys-Davies (The Lord of the Rings series, Indiana Jones series, Beyond the Mask), Kristyn Getty (In Christ Alone), and Ben Price. The visuals make it simple to apply what is being shown to our own experience as followers of Christ. I would caution that some of the demonic characters and experiences may be frightening to very young or sensitive children, but I found them to be a very powerful image of the actual spiritual attack we encounter. The themes of Faith, Hope, Redemption, and Perseverance are clearly defined and messages we all need as encouragement.

There will only be TWO opportunities to see The Pilgrim's Progress in theaters. This movie is being distributed through Fathom Events with screenings scheduled at select theaters on Thursday, April 18, during the evening and Saturday afternoon of April 20. However, these screenings are the perfect pre-Easter opportunity to gather with family, friends, and church groups to watch this beloved story in a brilliantly made film. Not only can you reflect and affirm your own journey, but this is the perfect opportunity to share with children and others who have not yet begun the first steps of being a Christ-follower. 

Get your tickets today at Pilgrims.movie/theaters. INVITE others to join you! Actually, if you gather a group of 10 or more, you can get a discount! Buy Group Tickets

Learn more at www.pilgrims.movie 

GIVEAWAY!! You could win 2 tickets OR a copy of The Pilgrim's Progress storybook... thanks to Lev3l Digital. Simply respond with #PilgrimsProgressL3  and #tix, #book, OR  #both to be entered. DEADLINE TO ENTER IS APRIL 12, 2019! CONTEST OVER!
**Be sure to check theaters (USA only) and the 2 available dates if you want to win tickets.**


Disclaimer: I was provided an online screener of this film for review purposes. I am being compensated with tickets and storybooks. All opinions are my own.
 
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