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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LINKS:

Buy Book on Amazon

Follow Julie Lavender on Instagram

 
End Game Press website

 

God's Great Love For You - Rick Warren

God’s Great Love for You, by bestselling author and pastor Rick Warren, is a story that lets children know that God's love is with them everywhere and all of the time. With simple sentences, and winsome illustrations by Chris Saunders, a child is assured that she is always surrounded by God's great love.

It's a cute book and I especially love the illustrations. I do disagree with the age range recommendation, though. It is much too simple for 7 and 8 year old children, so I would suggest it for 6 year old and under. My great-grandchildren are all under 3 right now, and this seems more suitable as a bedtime story book for them. The very short sentences are a better fit for their attention spans. The main character is also female, so I don't think the boys will like this one quite as much as girls. Of course, that is not true each time, but I still would have preferred a mix of characters. Still, a good book to introduce the love of God to wee ones.

GIVEAWAY: To enter for a chance to win a copy of God's Great Love For You, leave a comment on this blog or as a comment on a social media post. Deadline to enter is end of day, Friday, November 17, 2017.

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again.  Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

When God Made You - Matthew Paul Turner

Through playful, charming rhyme and vivid, fantastical illustrations, When God Made You inspires young readers to learn about their own special gifts and how they fit into God’s divine plan as they grow, explore, and begin to create for themselves. (publisher)

Matthew Paul Turner, is a blogger, speaker, and author. Illustrator David Catrow is primarily an illustrator/author of children's books but has also been involved with several animated film/television projects.

When God Made You is probably more suitable for 6-8-year-old kids since there is quite a bit of text that may not hold the attention of younger kids. Perhaps the author and I simply have different speech patterns, but I did not always find the words flowing as smoothly as I expect with a rhyming book, and a couple seemed a bit forced. Frankly, I got a bit bored with some of the repetition, but I am many years past the recommended reading level. The bright illustrations did demonstrate a sense of joy and fun as the child was assured that she was uniquely designed by God. For that age group, the message is okay, but I can't overlook the emphasis on the child being the center of attention rather than being created in the image of God to reflect Him. It's okay, but not great. I don't recommend it.

I received a copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging For Books program in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions are my own.

I'm Going to Give You a Bear Hug!

I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug!, written by Caroline B. Cooney, is a playful book about hugs, imagining the different ways to give or receive a hug through delightful rhymes and entertaining illustrations by Tim Warnes. 

Whether it’s a wriggly, wiggly bug hug, an enthusiastic knock over chairs dog hug, or a big bear, leaving you gasping for air, hug---this book is a lot of fun to read and have a special time of hugs and fun before bedtime.

This is a special book that both entertains and lets a child feel safe, secure, and well loved. This is a ZonderKidz hardcover book, recommended for children between 4 and 8, but toddlers will enjoy it too---especially all of the hugs! It encourages interaction between parent (or grandparent) and child, and gives the child an opportunity to burn off a little energy before settling down to sleep. 

With Valentine's Day approaching, this would be a perfect gift for your special little Valentine.

Official Website -  http://bit.ly/2eBPnU6

Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/ZonderkidzTwitter -  https://twitter.com/Zonderkidz

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

GIVEAWAY: All entries must be made No Later Than February 7, 2017. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. The winner is subject to eligibility verification.

God Made You Nose to Toes - Leslie Parrot

God Made You Nose to Toes, by well-known author and family therapist, Leslie Parrot, is a padded boardbook designed to explain to toddlers that God created each part of their body to help them enjoy their surroundings. With the help of a colorful toucan, rhymes are given to express that God made each part for a reason. Delightful animals are incorporated through the story via the talents of illustrator Estelle Corke. The book, published by Zondervan, is 8.38" x 8.38" and has 18 pages.

I wasn't blown away by the book, but I did think it was cute. More importantly, it has been handled a lot by a 16 months old who is loving the pictures. Also, the book is still completely intact. She is too young to sit still as I read it, but has grabbed it to look at several times. As she gets older we can spend more time on the words and the lesson to be taught. I believe she will enjoy learning more about her fingers, knees, nose, toes, etc., and that God created her to enjoy life and because He loves her very much. Between both of us, I would say the book is not quite a five for me, but not completely a 4...perhaps a 4.45.

I received a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers at no cost to myself. However, my thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Charlie the Tramp by Russell Hoban

Charlie the Tramp is celebrating 50 years with a new hardcover release. Winner of the 1968 Boys Club of America Junior Book Award, the book was authored by Russell Hoban (Bread and Jam for Frances; Emmit Otter’s Jug-band Christmas) and illustrated by Lillian Hoban. Lillian illustrated 6 of Russell's books, but is best known for a young chimpanzee named Arthur and his little sister, Violet. 

Charlie the Beaver wants to be a tramp when he grows up. “Tramps don’t have to learn how to chop down trees and how to roll logs and how to build dams. Tramps just tramp around and have a good time. Tramps carry sticks with little bundles tied to them. They sleep in a field when the weather is nice, and when it rains they sleep in a barn.” Charlie sets off with his bundle. But when he hears water trickling, he can’t get to sleep. Will he be able to resist the urge to make it stop? As Grandfather Beaver says, “You never know when a tramp will turn out to be a beaver.” (publisher)

This is a cute story, with delightful illustrations, about the adventures of a beaver who decides he wants to be a tramp when he grows up. With the encouragement of his parents and grandfather, young Charlie sets out to a nearby field to be a tramp. He returns home at mealtimes to do some chores in exchange for his food, but travels back to the field to sleep. But...a noise keeps distracting him. A stream of water is singing much to loudly and Charlie goes over to investigate. When Charlie does not show up for breakfast, his family makes an interesting discovery.

I don't remember this book from my childhood, but would have been too old for it by the time it was written. But, had I been younger, this would have been one I enjoyed. Some may say it is a bit outdated, but I don't find offense at any of it. I see a family who is encouraging a little boy to explore his aspirations within a safe boundary. This is a charming tale of natural instincts and a nurturing family with the sense to know that children need a bit of freedom to explore possibilities. I, too, remember a brief desire to become a tramp as a child. :) My parents calmly explained the pros and cons, and I decided to postpone that dream. 

Charlie the Tramp/Plough website

Amazon

GIVEAWAY: There is also a copy for one of my readers. Simply let me know in a comment (blog or Facebook) that you want to be entered. Deadline is December 10, 2016. USA residents only.
Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Abigail: The Belle of Bravery

Abigail, the Belle of Bravery is the third book in The Adventures of Rooney Cruz. Bible Belles highlights five "superhero" women of the Bible: Hannah, Esther, Abigail, Ruth, and Deborah. Each of these women has a super power to they use to serve God and this series highlights that to teach young girls a valuable lesson. These books were created by Erin Weidemann and illustrated by former Disney illustrator, Rob Corley.

 In this story, Rooney is back again with another adventure, and another lesson to be learned. When Rooney's brother Anthony deliberately angers the boys across the street, she is afraid that more trouble will be coming. What does she need to do? Her angel Mari has already taught her about the superpowers of prayer and patience, and now she has another story to help Rooney. Through the story of Abigail, Rooney learns about being brave enough to do the right thing. Just like Abigail, God will give her the courage of God to boldly face any problem with the confidence that He will see her through it. (Read about Abigail in 1 Samuel 25)

Another great story from the Bible Belles series. I love seeing stories of the women of the Bible being taught and directed to girls so that they have examples they can follow. I actually just re-read the story of Abigail in my own daily Bible reading recently, so I was delighted when offered the chance to review the version for younger children. Adults know how little things can escalate into large problems out of circumstances that we don't always understand. The lesson here of being brave and doing the right thing is perfect during a time of great misunderstanding, and one that needs to be learned early. Just as Abigail was able to wisely diffuse a threatening situation, Rooney was able to ease the growing tension and help bring peace to her neighborhood. Little things can make a difference, but being brave can seem scary. Teaching a child that God can give her the courage she needs to act boldly and do what is right---and on a level that is easily understood---is awesome. I highly recommend "Abigail: The Belle of Bravery" and the entire Bible Belles series.

Check out their other great books at BibleBelles.com

I received a copy of this product from Bible Belles. I was not required to give a positive review.
They have also authorized a giveaway copy to one of my readers. Please respond by November 30, 2016. 

The Biggest Story DVD and CD by Kevin DeYoung

The Biggest Story: How the Snake Crusher Brings Us Back to the Garden by Kevin DeYoung is the overall message of the Bible written for children with pivotal stories and characters highlighted. Starting with the disobedience and promise that demonstrate the promise of Jesus on to his birth, death, resurrection, and the availability of the Holy Spirit for all believers. In Genesis, God promises that there ill be a "Snake Crusher" who will eventually restore God's people to the same relationship He had with Adam and Eve in the Garden. This review, however, is about the DVD and Audio Book available.

The Animated Short Film: Using Don Clark's colorful illustrations from the hardcover of The Biggest Story, the animated short film is visually colorful enough to attract the attention of children as DeYoung uses a variety of highlights to connect Scripture’s message about God’s plan to redeem his rebellious people.

The Audio Book: Written and narrated by author Kevin DeYoung, this tells the story of Eve being tempted by the snake, and of Adam also eating from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, and then continues on the journey through the Bible, showing the many times God has connecting the dots from the garden of Eden to Christ's death on the cross to the new heaven and new earth.

I have mixed views on this one. I did love the bright colors, but sometimes it felt a little visually overwhelming. I did not always concentrate on the words. There were a few words that seemed a bit difficult for younger children to understand (for instance, "famine" is used several times and that is a concept all kids may not understand), but I am in favor of building a stronger vocabulary. You just may want to make sure the child watching (or listening to audio) understand what is being said. And, it may be useful to help a child understand that God still loved His people, despite being angry at actions. Of course the stories have to be simplified for children and there is a time constraint. While I do have a few issues, I do like both the DVD and CD and see them as good teaching tools for children, and this is definitely a conversation-opener to give your child a clearer explanation of God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, and how God has used others to perform His works and share the good news of Jesus and restore us to Him. Also, both CD and DVD include a brightly colored poster, suitable for framing. They are two-sided so that gives additional options.

I received a copy of these products from Propeller/FlyBy Promotions in exchange for a fair and honest review. "Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

God Gave Us Thankful Hearts by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Lil' Pup is sad that autumn is ending. But Mama reminds him about leaves and apple treats---and he learns that he can be happy if he's thankful despite his concerns.

God Gave Us Thankful Hearts, written by Lisa Tawn Bergren and artwork by David Holm, is a delightful book that tells the story of Lil' Pup who is grumbling over the fact that Winter is approaching. This 40 page hard cover book is simple for a young reader to enjoy, but also suitable for parents to read to younger children. The lesson to be grateful and look for the positive in all things is one that needs to be taught early, and the book is a perfect conversation opener or even a game to encourage children to develop an attitude of gratitude early in life. Children will also love looking at the bright Autumn colors that Holm uses throughout the book

I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook-Multnomah "Blogging For Books" program at no cost to myself. However, I was not required to write a positive review.

Lisa T. Bergren is the author of over forty books, with nearly two million copies sold. Her work includes children’s books, historical and contemporary fiction, women’s nonfiction, and gift books. A freelance writer and editor, Lisa lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She and her husband, Tim, are the parents of three children.

In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:18

 

All Things Bright and Beautiful by Cecil Frances Alexander

"All Things Bright and Beautiful" was originally included in "Hymns For Little Children" by Cecil Frances Alexander, published in 1848. The poem went on to become a well-loved hymn known to Christians around the world.

This children's book, follows 3 children as they explore the world around them, discovering God's creation. With a couplet from the poem written on each set of 2 pages, it is a quick, easy read, but the joy of this 32 page hard cover children's book is the colorful illustrations by artist Katy Hudson of Middlesbrough, England. The parent and child can extend reading (and cuddle) time as they examine the illustrations, soaking in the details, and learning about each detail with a conversation ranging from the various animals, the stars, and even playing barefoot in a stream of water. Since this poem is also a hymn, it will help readers with word recognition since song memorization is a useful tool in learning. This oversized book is even useful as a display piece/room decoration to encourage reading and a love for books. 

GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment no later than 11:59pm CDT on July 31, 2016 to be entered to win a copy of "All Things Bright and Beautiful."

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Amazon buy link 
Katy Hudson website


All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful,
The Lord God made them all.

Esther: The Belle of Patience

Esther: The Belle of Patience is the most recent book in The Adventures of Rooney Cruz. Bible Belles highlights five "superhero" women of the Bible: Hannah, Esther, Abigail, Ruth, and Deborah. Each of these women has a super power to they use to serve God and this series highlights that to teach young girls a valuable lesson. 

Rooney's guardian angel, Mari, takes her on an adventure to learn about each of these women and helps her to own their superpower for her own transformation into a superhero. These adventures also help Rooney learn more about God's love for her and that he has gifts that give her inner beauty and strength to be equipped in her life in resolving problems and making a difference that counts. Book 1 was Hannah: The Belle of Prayer, and future books will teach on Bravery, Loyalty, and Leadership. Created by Erin Weidemann and illustrated by former Disney illustrator, Rob Corley.

My Review: First off, I was a bit hesitant when I was reading guardian angel and super powers, but that was gone within seconds of getting into the book. These are stories about women in the Bible who have modeled character traits that are invaluable. Women in the Bible rarely receive as much attention as the men and girls do need role models they can look up to as they are developing their faith and character. I hope they expand beyond the original five planned for this series.

In this particular book, the story of Esther is retold in a simple tale that is easy for children to understand, but with an emphasis on the patience of Esther as she took time to fast and pray for the right time to approach the king and to present her request. The Biblical story is then applied to the problem that Rooney is facing with a soccer teammate and her coach who never seems to be listening when she tries to point it out to him. I had never really looked at Esther as a lesson in patience (admittedly, not one of my virtues), so it made me look at it from a different angle too. The writing is great and the illustrations are fantastic! I highly recommend, not just this particular book, but the entire series. Since this is just book 2, looks like I will need to practice patience as I wait for the rest of the series. Visit the website at BibleBelles.com

Many thanks to Propeller Consulting and FlyBy Promotions for the opportunity to review this book at no cost to myself. All opinions are my own.

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Little One, God Made You Special by Amy Warren Hilliker

Little One, God Made You Special by Amy Warren Hilliker is a 14 page board book for toddlers inspired by Rick Warren's best-seller, The Purpose Driven Life. Written by his daughter, Amy, the book is just the right size for toddlers to old on to and has simple sentences that are just the right length for a toddler's attention span. You can even use interactions to correspond with each sentence to make it an additional learning lesson.

Cute adult and child animals give the book an appealing charm, thanks to illustrator Polona Lovsin, and a child is sure to be delighted with the drawings. This is also a sturdy book that holds together well (tested by my 8 month old great-granddaughter). Published by Zonderkidz.

I received a copy of this book from the BookLook Bloggers program at no cost to myself for review purposes. I was not required to give a good review.

Jesus Helps Me - Graham Blanchard

"Jesus Helps Me" offers four levels of exploration: a quoted Bible passage (John 12:44-47), supporting captions that relate the passage to a child’s life, thinking questions to personalize the experience and colorful, full page photographs. Also included is a tip section for parents on how to use the book with a baby, toddler, and child.

The book is a Learn book in the well-received Learn, Absorb and Praise™ Collection, which makes personal Bible studies accessible to young children. Alongside adults, the series helps kids build a foundation for faith and a lifelong friendship with Jesus. 

My Review:This board book is sturdily built to be suitable for a preschooler, and has words to help build a strong faith. The concept of what is written may be difficult for a young child who takes things literally to completely comprehend, yet they build a basic foundation for faith to grow. There are simple words that a young reader can help share the story. And a longer paragraph that an adult can use to lead a discussion that ties in with both words and the photos of various birds that beautifully illustrate the book. Once again author Callie Grant & illustrator Missi Jay have created a wonderful book I can hardly wait to share with my great-grandkids.

I received this book free of charge from Shelton Interactive in exchange for my honest review.

Graham Blanchard: Christian Children's Books
Callie Grant
Shelton Interactive
Missi Jay

Song of the Stars by Sally Lloyd-Jones

Song of the Stars by New York Times bestseller, Sally Lloyd-Jones, and illustrated by Alison Jay is a board book about the celebration of all creation as they eagerly await the birth of Christ. The animals, trees, oceans and even the stars are anticipating letting the entire world know that God's promised Son, the Creator of ALL living things has been born! "It's Time! It's Time!"




My Review: Of course I loved the story. As a follower of Christ, I want to share the story of his birth with the little ones I love and I do like the sense of anticipation and excitement that builds as the author and illustrator demonstrate how all of creation rejoiced and celebrated the birth of Jesus.

But I thought the book structure was meant more for tinier hands to hold and the words were more appropriate for the 4-7 year old audience that it is meant to reach. It is a good book, but I guess my expectations in seeing the size had my expectations prepared for  the words to be geared more toward a toddler with a more limited vocabulary. So, it is more of a visual thing for me. I had my 1 year old great grandson in mind since it was a perfect size. But, his attention span would not last through a reading. By the time he is old enough to appreciate the words more, he is more apt to think of smaller board books as "baby books." Don't love it, but I did like it. It should be sturdy enough to hold up until he is old enough to sit still for a reading.

**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sally Lloyd-Jones is a leading writer of inspirational books for children. She is the author of three bestselling children’s Bibles, including the Gold Book Award-winning Baby’s First Bible and, most recently, the Moonbeam Award Winner and ALA notable, The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name. She has written many picture books for children, including the critically acclaimed New York Times bestseller How to Be a Baby: By Me, the Big Sister. Sally was born and raised in Africa, was schooled in England, and now lives in New York City. She can be found at www.sallylloyd-jones.com.

Rasmus and the Vagabond

After running away from an orphanage, nine-year-old Rasmus finds the world a cold and unfriendly place until he befriends an extraordinary tramp called Paradise Oscar. Together they meet more adventure than they ever imagined, solve a mystery, and catch the culprits. Rasmus dreams of finding a family and a home someday. But when he does, will he be able to part with his new friend and life on the road? 

My Review: How did I miss this one when I was growing up? I remember loving Astrid Lindgren's Pippi Longstocking books, but can't remember if I read others by her. So, it was due to those memories that I agreed to review Rasmus and the Vagabond. No doubt this is a piece of classic children's literature and I am so happy I can now say I read it.

The characters are intriguing and the story captured me immediately. There are elements of suspense, comedy, hope, heartbreak, and adventure to keep readers of any age enthralled and to ignite the imagination. There are also great character traits displayed, along with the innocent mischief any child is apt to get into. This was a satisfying read from beginning to end and one that needs to stay in print for future generations.

I was provided with a free copy from Handlebar Marketing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

My Keepsake Bible by Sally Ann Wright

My Keepsake Bible by Sally Ann Wright is a treasury of Bible stories, prayers, and family history. Each of the Bible stories are one or two pages with wonderful illustrations by Honor Ayres. They cover some of the best known stories from the Bible, simplified for a young child, but still true to Scripture. The prayers are short and simple, and I appreciate that either Scripture reference or author attribution is given where necessary. These are all wonderful to read to young children, and familiarize them with the Christian faith. It book itself is a padded hardcover that is 8.3 x 6.3 x 0.6 inches---perfect for a young child to carry. This particular edition is suitable for girls and boys.

What grabbed my attention, though, is the section for family records and personal milestones. When I was younger, I loved looking through our illustrated family Bible, and was particularly fascinated by the genealogy recorded and the records kept. I also loved reading through my baby book to see what my mom had written about my "firsts". This Bible is a very good combination of both, and a way to teach a child about their immediate family, and explain that the child is also connected to the family of God. It gives a sense of belonging that is so vital in making a child feel secure and loved.

comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, please mention as part of every Web or Amazon review that Tyndale House Publishers has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book or ARC - See more at: http://www.tyndaleblognetwork.com/5_nav/guidelines.php#sthash.uAf3c98s.dpuf

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission regulations: I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers at no cost to myself for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.

comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, please mention as part of every Web or Amazon review that Tyndale House Publishers has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book or ARC - See more at: http://www.tyndaleblognetwork.com/5_nav/guidelines.php#sthash.uAf3c98s.dpuf

A Love Letter From God by P. K. Hallinan

Author P. K. Hallinan imagines what God might say in a letter written to a child in A Love Letter From God. As with his other books, the story is told in a simple rhyming style that is able to leave a profound message to children about who God is and the love He has for them. The same reassurances of God's love for us and the promises we cherish that He will never leave us are the theme of this story and one that a young child can easily understand. The easy to read prose, along with illustration by Laura Watson will make this book a favorite with your 3-8 year old. I loved the cutouts of various shapes, including hearts and stars, and that it is sturdy book (not as thick as a board book, but still heavy-duty) that will withstand numerous readings from a child. 

Be sure to check out this special offer!

For the month of January, every book from www.idealsbooks.com with the word “Love” in the title will be 20% off! Be sure to Search “LOVE2015” for a complete list of books.

Promotional Code to apply at check out is LOVE2015

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”  Deadline to enter is Sunday, Jan. 11 at 7:30 pm CST.

Ideals Publications publishes 20 to 25 new children’s titles a year, primarily for two- to eight-year-olds. Our backlist includes more than 400 titles, and we publish picture books, activity books, board books, and novelty and sound books covering a wide array of topics, such as Bible stories, holidays, early learning, history, family relationships, and values. Our bestselling titles include The Story of Christmas, The Story of Easter, Seaman’s Journal, How Do I Love You ?, My Daddy and I, and The Story of Jesus. Through our dedication to publishing high-quality and engaging books, we never forget our obligation to our littlest readers to help create those special moments with books.

Noah by Mark Ludy

Noah: The Wordless Picture Book by Mark Ludy is meant to appeal to both children and adults. Going deeper than the children's Sunday School version, the story follows the Biblical version and illustrates Noah's relationship with God, his wife, his children, the people around him and animals. The artwork is meant to reveal a picture of what was happening that bring a response from children and adults to further understand what was happening. The wordless format will develop both communication skills and imaginative story-telling while teaching or reaffirming the Biblical account of this event.

No doubt the illustrations are well done; Ludy is obviously very talented. I also like books that encourage children to use their imaginations. Of course, I do believe the Biblical account to be true, but it is just the basic account. I don't necessarily agree with all Ludy portrays, but I am also sure my views aren't strictly accurate. Some of the drawings did seem to dark for a younger child. I know we sugarcoat the story, perhaps too much, for young children, but a couple of the illustrations are a bit frightening for some kids. Of course, the true story is much more graphic and older kids and adults need to understand why the flood happened. So, beautiful artwork and great concept, but I think a parent would need to decide when a child could handle this.

I was provided with a free copy from Handlebar Marketing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Your Core by Callie Grant

Everyone has an inner place made by God for welcoming and meeting with Him. Inspired by Ephesians 3:14-19, Your Core appeals to the youngest readers with simple text and colorful scenes to convey a difficult concept to grasp—even for many adults.

Absorb books connect studies about the facts of God with a child’s inner life – what Jesus cares about most. Children assimilate on a personal level who God is and how they are made to be with him, trust him and love him. (from the Graham Blanchard website)

My Review: This latest boardbook by Callie Grant is not only perfect for young hands to hold, but also explains the Holy Spirit in such a simple manner that children can get a basic grasp of who He is. The Trinity is a hard concept for even adults to understand sometimes, but this is an excellent starting point. The colorful illustrations by Missy Jay also serve as a visual to help anyone learn the message the book teaches. I highly recommend this book for Sunday School classes, church libraries, or your home library for the young children in your life. Also check out the Tips For Grown-Ups link on the Graham Blanchard website for more ways to interact with your child about the lesson learned.

 I received this book free of charge from Shelton Interactive in exchange for my honest review.

Graham Blanchard: Christian Children's Books
Callie Grant
Shelton Interactive
Missi Jay
Gigglebox

Close As A Breath by Callie Grant

"Close As A Breath" is an absorb book written by Callie Grant that encapsulates a fabulous autumn day shared between a daughter and a dad. As she asks her father numerous questions triggered by the things she can see, smell, and feel, he responds with answers that explain that through the unseen and the seen, she can know that God is also surrounding her.

This warmly inviting book, illustrated by Sarah Ackerley, will retain a child's interest and will likely trigger a few more questions being asked. The simple answers the father gives his daughter are age appropriate (the book was written for children up to 6 years old). They also open the opportunity for a parent to discuss God and faith with his child on a very elementary level that helps to build faith.


I received this book free of charge from Shelton Interactive in exchange for my honest review.

Graham Blanchard: Christian Children's Books
Callie Grant
Shelton Interactive
Sarah Ackerley