mialacena

Heaven: God's Promise for Me

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

“We wondered when our Granny died,/ Where did she really go?/ It’s lonely here without her,/ And we just miss her so!”

When someone dear passes away and little ones start asking questions about Heaven, where can a parent turn for help? Check out Heaven: God’s Promise for Me, by Anne Graham Lotz. Kid-friendly, whimsical pictures created by Laura J. Bryant depict children from a variety of ethnic backgrounds and animals of all kinds.

The story explores the promises God gives us about our eternal home. The book opens with a letter from Graham to parents, telling why she wrote the book and giving them some encouraging tips about how they can pass on their faith. Then the story begins. Written in rhyming verse, it follows a brother and sister as they pray for answers about Heaven, and then look for answers in the Bible. They discover that God not only has a great big house with many rooms, but that “Jesus, His Son, is preparing a place. With treasures from above--/ Our favorite foods and colors,/ And the special people we love…” Jesus will also wipe away our tears, and there will be no crying or pain or sickness or sadness or hunger!

The book goes on to describe the beauty of our Heavenly home. Finally, in the grand tradition of Billy Graham, daughter Anne Graham Lotz masterfully takes the tale to a poignant culmination by encouraging readers to put their trust in Jesus. In fact, after the story, the author includes a prayer kids can recite to ask Jesus into their hearts. The book also includes questions parents can use to help talk about Heaven (such as “Where is Heaven?” and “Will you be welcomed in Heaven? Why?”) and a helpful list of Scripture references used to build the foundation of the story.

What I Like: The book seems like a great tool to help guide children to understand eternity and how to put their faith in Christ. The inclusion of Scripture references provides both parent and child with a stepping stone to further explore the ideas presented in the story. I also LOVE the bright and appealing watercolor illustrations.

What I Dislike: Rhyming books are hard to write well. (In fact, out of the rhyming books I’ve read most recently, Crystal Bowman is one of the few authors who consistently gets the meter right.) In this book, the meter works some of the time, but sometimes it’s simply off. Because of that, when I read it out loud, I stumbled over a several verses. Still, the message and illustrations paired with the extra support (letter to parents, prayer, Scripture references) are strong enough to offset that flaw.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: Ages 4 and up.

Publisher Info: Zondervan, 2011; ISBN:978-0310716013; Hardcover, 40 PGS., $16.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $11.49
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $11.55
OR Buy the Kindle version for $9.99.

Special Info: Anne Graham Lotz is the CEO of AnGeL Ministries. You can find out more information about this ministry at her website. She mainly writes books for adults. Some titles are The Magnificent Obsession: Embracing the God-Filled Life, Just Give Me Jesus, and Heaven: My Father’s House.

Pamela Meyers's Thyme for Love ~ Reviewed

2011-11-23T13:15:00.000-08:00

Thyme for Love

By Pamela S. Meyers

Published by Oak Tara

ISBN 978-1-60290-302-9

April Love has always dreamed of being a chef. But she didn't expect a former fiancé or murder to be part of the recipe for her new job.

When April Love signs on to be an in-house chef at an old lakeside mansion in Canoga Lake, Wisconsin, she comes face to face with her long-lost love, the drop-dead gorgeous Marc Throne. It doesn't take long for their old magnetism to recharge, but how can she trust a guy who left her nearly at the altar eight years earlier? Her gut tells her something has happened to Marc in between—something he's reluctant to reveal.

When April's boss is murdered, Marc is accused of the crime. Unless April can find out who really killed Ramon Galvez, her chances for love will end up at the county jail. But someone else is just as determined she not solve the mystery ... and will go to any length to stop her.

Endorsements for Thyme for Love:

"Thyme for Love is a compelling romance with unique characters that will live on in your hearts long after you turn the last page." ~ Ane Mulligan, Sr. Editor, Novel Rocket

"Fresh, clever, witty, real. That rare romance that leaps to 3-D life and keeps you enraptured—and guessing." ~ Tammy Barley, award winning author of The Sierra Chronicles, Exec Ed., WorldTalk Internaitonal Christian books, Destination: Earth magazine.

"Great food and a murder are all the rage today for haute cuisine. I'm looking forward to the adventures!" ~ Bonnie S. Calhoun, Publisher of Christian Fiction Online Magazine, author of Cooking the Books.

"A romantic mystery, full of twists, turn, fancy cooking, a hunky hero, and a heroine who doesn't take no for an answer." ~ Cynthia Hickey, author of the Summer Meadows Mysteries and Unraveling Love.

The Amazing Word of God

2011-11-23T05:57:00.000-08:00

Similar to The Message by Eugene Petersen, The Amazing Word of God presents paraphrased Scripture. Only this volume does it entirely in rhyming verse. The publisher calls it:
"a refreshing, uncomplicated reading of the most popular books of the Bible, including prophecy."

Author Penny Zee labored for seven years over the project, motivated by the conviction that children and adults absorb more and learn faster through poetry than prose. It begins:

In the beginning God created the heavens
And then He created the world
And as His Spirit hovered over the waters
His magnificent plan unfurled

The book includes 50 Bible stories. These are listed in the Table of Contents along with their main character(s) and corresponding book(s) of the Bible. The Life of Jesus includes over 100 sub-stories.

At well over 500 pages, this book touches on nearly every book of the Bible. Some obvious exclusions are Psalms, Proverbs, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Colossians, several minor prophets and some of the smaller epistles. Catholic readers will also notice the absence of books such as Judith, Maccabees and Baruch.

As this is not intended to be an exhaustive account of Scripture, some sections offer abridged accounts. For example, the book of Judges is represented only by the life of Samson. This portion comes immediately after Joshua and the battle of Jericho, thereby skipping centuries of history and several other leaders of Israel. This is just one example of how the book proves selective in its portrayals.

What I Like: Poetry is exceedingly difficult to write fluidly; the hurdles magnify when one seeks to relay Scripture accurately. The author's hard work is evident in the pages. She clearly consulted several versions of Scripture (as evidenced by the bibliography at the back of the book) and some commentaries. This book could prove a helpful reference tool, offering fresh perspectives on certain parts of Scripture.

What I Dislike: The rhythm and flow of text is inconsistent. Some parts are wonderful, but others can be frustrating to read. The author has employed a coded system of punctuation to help readers pace the lines "properly" (detailed in the book's Introduction), but the reading is still cumbersome in many places. Unfortunately, I often focused so much on how to read that I missed what I was reading.

The book's endorsements are sensational and, I feel, misleading. My greatest concern with this book is that many people will mistake it for an actual Bible rather than a paraphrase. Considering the title and the publisher's claims all over the book jacket, this would be easy to do. Such a mistake is dangerous because (1) the text includes the author's interpretation of Scripture rather than a translation of Scripture and (2) several parts of the Bible are not represented here. As long as readers clearly understand what it is and what it is not, however, this book could prove a wonderful resource.

Finally, the most minor of concerns, the top of every page includes the author's name and this book's title, but not the applicable book of the Bible or even the story re-told. With a book this size, it would be easier to find desired sections, if they were labeled more specifically. Also, I would love to have direct Bible references (book and chapter) listed with each story. This would more easily facilitate further study.

Overall Rating: Good -- Noting the clarifications made above.

Age Appeal: All ages, though I recommend 8 and above.

Publisher Info: Creation House, 2010; ISBN: 1616381612; Hardback; 560 pages; $21.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $14.99!

OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $17.15.

This title is also available in Kindle format for $13.19.

Susan Page Davis's Captive Trail ~ Reviewed

2011-11-22T14:19:00.000-08:00

CAPTIVE TRAIL

Susan Page Davis

Paperback: 304 pages

Publisher: Moody Publishers; New Edition edition (September 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0802405843

Description:

The Captive Trail is second in a six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896. Although a series, each book can be read on its own. Taabe Waipu has run away from her Comanche village and is fleeing south in Texas on a horse she stole from a dowry left outside her family's teepee. The horse has an accident and she is left on foot, injured and exhausted. She staggers onto a road near Fort Chadbourne and collapses.On one of the first runs through Texas, Butterfield Overland Mail Company driver Ned Bright carries two Ursuline nuns returning to their mission station. They come across a woman who is nearly dead from exposure and dehydration and take her to the mission.With some detective work, Ned discovers Taabe Waipu identity. He plans to unite her with her family, but the Comanche have other ideas, and the two end up defending the mission station. Through Taabe and Ned we learn the true meaning of healing and restoration amid seemingly powerless situations.

Review:

Captive Trail is about a young white woman named Taabe Waipu who was kidnapped at a young age from her family by a band of Comanche’s. Though she is forced to forget the white man’s ways, as she grows up, there is a yearning in her heart to find her real family, though she can’t remember them. After several years, she finds the courage to take a horse and escape. When an accident happens along the way, she is rescued by a group of nuns that are settling in the area to start a school for girls, and a Mail Company driver named Ned Bright. As the nuns begin to nurse her back to health and learn to communicate with her, Taabe also finds that she is falling for Ned Bright, and Ned is feeling the same. Ned is determined to help her find her family, while trying to keep her safe from the Comanche, whom Taabe knows will be coming for her.

It took me a little while to get into this book. It was very interesting, though. I enjoyed seeing how quickly Taabe was able to begin picking up the English language again. It amazed me how much she had forgotten over her years with the Comanche. However, her determination to find her family again was admirable, especially with the trials she faced in trying to escape.

Reviewed by: Sarah Porter

Good King Wenceslas

2011-11-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

In 1853, an Angelican priest named John M. Neale wrote the lyrics to the Christmas carol "Good King Wenceslas," which tells the story of a real 10th century Christian Behmian king, well known for his generosity. In the book Good King Wenceslas, illustrator Tim Ladwig brings this carol to life, showing the king watching a poor man gathering sticks for his fire one bone-chilling, snowy evening. The king instructs his young page to gather food and wine for the man, then the two walk into the snowy night to deliver it. The page isn't sure he can make it through the deep drifts, so the king instructs him to walk behind him, in his footsteps. Finally, they deliver the food and drink to the poor man, and the carol reminds us:

"Therefore, Christians all, be sure,
wealth or rank possessing,
ye who now will bless the poor,
shall yourselves find blessing."

The book uses all the verses of the song; except for a short introduction (which explains who the king was), there is no additional text. The last page of the book features simple piano sheet music and all the lyrics to the carol.

What I Like: Tim Ladwig's illustrations are gorgeous, featuring the shadows and lights cast by candles and fireplaces, and the glow of the moon on snowy scenes. He does a superb job of bringing this traditional carol to life. The cover of the book does the inner illustrations no justice at all.

I also must admit I didn't know the carol before reading this book. No matter. I hopped onto YouTube to listen to it, and immediately enjoyed it. I also let my children listen to the carol before we read the book. (You could also look at the book while the carol is playing, but there are a number of pages in the book that are wordless. These add a great deal to the story, showing the page gathering food, and showing the poor man's reaction to the gift of the food - but make it difficult to listen to the carol and look at the book at the same time.)

What I Dislike: Some of the lyrics are slightly modified from the original version, presumably to make the carol easier for young children to understand.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 5 and up, but my 3 year old likes the book, too.

Publishing Info: Eerdmans; 2005; ISBN: 978-0802852090; hardback, 32 pgs., $17.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $11.56
OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $11.99

The Donkey's First Christmas

2011-11-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

God often uses the least likely people to accomplish his goals, and in The Donkey's First Christmas by S.T. Schroder, he also uses a stubborn donkey.

This little blue donkey doesn't want to do anything - unless it's his own idea. To avoid working for his master, he puts on illness, or hides, or just plain refuses to move. But one day, despite hiding, limping, coughing, and loudly braying, his master gives him - for free - to a man.

The donkey's heart sinks as he sees his load: A very pregnant woman, plus some luggage. "I won't and you can't make me," the donkey thinks, but the woman offers him a pear: "There you go you sweetie. Let's have a bite to eat. It wouldn't do to start our trip without a little treat." The donkey decides he'll do as the woman asks - "but only for today."

The woman's kindness keeps the donkey walking, even when he thinks he can't go a step further, until at last he collapses in a stable. The next thing he knows, he hears a baby crying.

"Then when I saw the mother
pull her tiny baby near
an angel who'd been watching
Leant and whispered in her ear
'You see now little donkey
what a special thing you've done?
By helping carry Mary
- you helped God's precious son.'"

What I Like: This is a cute book, with chunky, sweet illustrations in soft colors. It appealed to both my children - who, like so many young kids - sometimes want to be as stubborn as the blue donkey. Although the book does not give the full story of the first Christmas, it does create an opening to discuss it, all while holding a young child's attention better than a more realistic book might.

What I Dislike: Schroder's rhyming text occasionally is forced, but my only major complaint is the text, which uses a capital O whenever an O appears in the text, reminding us of the first illustration in the book where the donkey is shown braying "e-Or!" While this is creative, it - combined with the thin font designed to appear hand written (or, perhaps it is hand written) makes it difficult for me to read the story without hesitating.

Overall Rating: Despite the problem with the font, very good.

Age Appeal: Toddler to early gradschool.

Publishing Info: Tilli Publishing; 2011; ISBN: 978-1908053015; paperback, 24 pgs., $9.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $9.99
OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $8.19

Special Info: To see a book trailer for The Donkey's First Christmas, visit the author's website. There, you can also download an excerpt from the book and email the author about free lesson plans to go with the book.

Melody Carlson's The Christmas Shoppe ~ Reviewed

2011-11-21T13:09:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Shoppe

By Melody Carlson

Published by: Revell

ISBN #: 978-0-8007-1926-5

168 Pages

About Book:

The small town of Parrish Springs is not ready for Matilda Honeycutt. A strange older woman with scraggly gray hair and jewelry that jangles as she walks, Matilda is certainly not the most likely person to buy the old Barton Building on the town's quaint main street. When it becomes apparent that her new shop doesn't fit the expectations of Parrish Springs residents, a brouhaha erupts. After all, Christmas is approaching, and the last thing the town needs is a junky shop run by someone who looks and acts like a gypsy. But as townsfolk venture into the strange store, they discover that old memories can bring new life and healing.

REVIEW:

I’ve enjoyed several of Melody Carlson’s Christmas books and this one is no exception. The Christmas Shoppe reminded me of of two things, one the movie with Johnny Depp called Chocolat, where a mother and daughter set up a chocolate shop in a small town in France and also a book called The Legend of the Candy Cane, where a man comes to town and opens a mysterious shop that turns out to be a candy shop. In each of these stories the whole town watches in anticipation to see what the shop owner will sell.

Melody’s story starts out in a similar way, the whole town is intrigued at what kind of store will open in their small town of Parrish Springs. Matilda Honeycutt is setting up shop and doesn't want to tell just yet what type of shop she has in mind. “Matilda has a little something for each one of them (towns people) sitting on her cluttered shelves, just waiting to be discovered.”

Everyone speculates and wonders what is behind the papered-up windows and locked doors! The town counsel is watching and wants to make sure Matilda follows the rules. She has to follow strict guidelines. When she is cornered about these rules and would she comply with them, she asks the board her own questions and confronts Rose “The secret value of this treasure is impossible to measure-what do you think peace is worth Rose? Impossible to measure?”

Rose ponders that idea and leaves Matilda alone. She talks to another, “Please don’t turn down a gift, George. You might not get another chance. Today is here. It’s yours for the taking! Please, just take it?”

It’s an easy read that helps you see the gifts only God can provide! Definitely a warm, fuzzy, feel good novel with a few twists and subtle messages for the characters and you to ponder. This was a sweet tale that helps the reader catch the spirit of Christmas.

Reviewed by: Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

The Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale

2011-11-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

Once there were three trees with very specific wishes. One, author Elena Pasquali writes in The Three Trees, wanted to be made into a chest that held treasure. Another wanted to be made into a ship holding a mighty king. The last tree was more content: "I want to stay here on the hillside, pointing to heaven."

Many years later, the trees are chopped down. The first two are eager to meet their destiny, but the third mourns: "Now my dream is over."

A carpenter takes the wood from the first tree and makes it into a feeding trough - not a treasure chest. The tree sighs at it's new, humble life. But then one night, a newborn baby is laid into the trough. "Suddenly the first tree knew that it was holding the greatest treasure the world had ever known."

A shipwright takes the wood from the second tree, but he makes it into a humble fisherman's boat - not the ship of a king. The tree sighs at it's dull life. But then one night, someone riding in the boat says "Peace. Be still." And the stormy sea turns calm. "And the second tree knew that it was carrying the mightiest king the world had ever known."

The wood from the third tree sits for a long time before someone hastily makes it into a cross. A man is attached to the cross, and the cross stands on a hillside. The man is removed and the cross is empty.

"Then came a bright dawn. By a miracle, the man who had died was seen alive again. The tree that had borne his death was now a symbol of his life. And the third tree knew that it would stand for ever, pointing to heaven."

What I Like: God will often use us in ways we do not expect - and even the most humble among us are useful to him: Two facts beautifully illustrated in The Three Trees. This tale is simple and well told, and is sure to become a favorite not just for Christmas and Easter, but all year long. The illustrations by Sophie Windham have a beautiful folk art feel to them, making this a book a visual treat, as well.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 5 and up, but my 3 year old likes the book, too.

Publishing Info: Lion; 2011; ISBN: 978-0745962894; hardback, 32 pgs., $14.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $11.24
OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $11.49

Special Info:This folktale has been featured in a number of books. including one by Angela Elwell Hunt, which we reviewed here.

Janie's Freedom: African-Americans in the Aftermath of the Civil War

2011-11-21T10:00:00.000-08:00

The South was a turbulent place after the Civil War ended. The slaves were free from slavery, but not necessarily from trouble. Many white men resented having to free their slaves, so life was still hard for a black person in the South. Many of the freed slaves left the South and traveled to the North to find work and greater acceptance.

Janie is one such slave. It’s been two years since the end of the war. She is still living at Rubyhill, a plantation that was mostly burnt when Sherman’s troops came through. She has been raised by Aunty Mil, an elderly, blind slave on the plantation who has treated Janie like her grandchild. Janie was taken away from her parents when she was five and sold to Rubyhill.

Aunty Mil has taught Janie about God. When Aunty Mil feels it is about her time to “go to Heaven” she encourages Janie to leave the south and head North for a better life. The Master of the plantation is dead and his widow is leaving to join her family in Philadelphia. Her parting instructions to her former slaves are: “Stay at Rubyhill as long as you like. Take whatever you can use from the house or from anywhere else on the land. My men won’t be coming back. Neither will I. May God bless you all and keep you safe.”

After the departure of Miz Laura, Janie and four other young form plantation slaves decide to leave “home” and strike out for Chicago. Janie has always wondered what happened to her parents and hopes someday to be reunited with them. The journey to the North is not easy, and the former slaves must trust in God to help them through to a better life.

Janie’s Freedom: African-Americans in the Aftermath of the Civil War, written by Callie Smith Grant, is told from two perspectives, that of Janie herself and that of Annie, Janie’s mother. Both characters tell their stories of how they were separated from their family members and for their hopes to be reunited.

What I Like: I like historical fiction. You get a good sense of what it was like for former slaves living during this time period. Janie’s character is based on a composite of former female slaves who still lived in the South after the War.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 8-12.

Publisher Info: Barbour Publishing, 2006; ISBN: 9781597890861; 144 pages, Paperback, $4.99.

Buy now at ChristianBook $2.29!

Or buy at Amazon.com $4.75.

Special Info: This book is part of the publisher’s Sisters in Time series.

MaryLu Tyndall's Surrender the Dawn ~ Reviewed

2011-11-18T02:37:00.000-08:00

Surrender the Dawn
Book 3 in Surrender to Destiny Series
By MaryLu Tyndall
2011
Barbour Publishing
978-1-60260-167-3

Review by Michelle Griep

When the war of 1812 robs Cassandra Channing of her father and brothers, she must find a way to support her mother and younger siblings without being forced to marry a man she does not love. Determined to remain independent, she hires a privateer, captained by the town rogue.

Tortured by guilt over his parents’ death, Luke Heaton spends his time drinking and gambling. When Cassandra offers him enough money to fix up his ship, he sees an opportunity to redeem his reputation and help the lady he has loved from afar. Things go well until the British blackmail him into selling supplies to their ships> Still Luke cannot allow Cassandra’s family to be tossed on the streets.

When Cassandra begins to suspect Luke’s nefarious activities, she is heartbroken. Hoping to prove her suspicions wrong, she sets out to catch him in the act. But what she doesn’t expect is to get caught up in a massive British invasion…and one of the most decisive battles of the war where lives, liberty, and the future of a nation are at stake.

Whewie…hold onto your bonnets ladies because this is one wild ride! Surrender the Dawn is the third and last installment in the Surrender to Destiny Series and it’s by far my favorite, for so many reasons.

First off, I love how at the end the reader gets to see previous scenes from earlier books in other character’s perspectives. What an intricate weave of plot author MaryLu Tyndall ties together.

Secondly, what’s not to love about hero Luke Heaton? This is one bad boy lead character who’s completely irresistible. Besides the fact that he’s drop-dead gorgeous, he’s got a heart as big as the sea he sails on.

And last but not least, the amount of history worked into this tale is well worth the read. I especially liked one of the last scenes where heroine Cassandra Channing is shoulder to shoulder with Francis Scott Key with the bombs bursting in air.

If you enjoy history, snappy dialogue, and lots of action, Surrender to Destiny is the series for you.

Laurie Alice Eakes's A Necessary Deception ~ Reviewed

2011-11-16T23:41:00.000-08:00

A NECESSARY DECEPTION

By Laurie Alice Eakes

Published by Revell

ISBN#987-0-8007-3466-4

346 Pages

Back Cover:

When young widow Lady Lydia Gale helps a French prisoner obtain parole, she never dreamed he would turn up in her parlor. But just as the London Season is getting under way, there he is, along with a few other questionable personages. While she should be focused on helping her headstrong younger sister prepare for her entré into London society, Lady Gale finds herself preoccupied with the mysterious Frenchman. Is he a spy or a suitor? Can she trust him? Or is she putting her family in danger?

Readers will enjoy being drawn into this world of elegance and intrigue, balls and masquerades. Author Laurie Alice Eakes whisks readers through the drawing rooms of London amid the sound of rustling gowns on this exciting quest to let the past stay in the past and let love guide the future.

REVIEW:

Laurie Eakes whisks the reader into 1812 – London Society – into the Regency Era. It’s a world filled with drawing rooms, masquerade balls and a time when women were presented into society in hopes of a marriage proposal.

This author knows her stuff and brings historical richness to the story I adored. It was fun to read about the social rules for women to keep their reputation pure. It was also interesting how most of these rules didn’t apply to widows and how most of these rules could be used to trap a man or women into an unwanted marriage proposal in order to keep a woman’s reputation in tact.

Widow, Lady Lydia Gale, age twenty-six was trying to find where she fit into society. She wasn’t married long when her husband was killed in the war. Lydia made her sisters her focus. She wanted them to have a better marriage opportunity than she had so she worked hard to make sure things were set up elegantly in order to be presented into society properly.

In the middle of her preparations, Lady Lydia went on a secret mission to repay a kindness shown her husband before his death. In order to do that Lady Lydia had to go places most ladies would never been seen. The first line in the novel says, “Entrée into the prison proved easy for Lady Lydia Gale.” I was hooked from the start..

Lydia was meeting Christian de Meuse, a French man, who helped her husband an Englishman, at the end of his life. This just wasn’t done. On behalf of her husband she wanted to do what she could to show she appreciated his help.

Things get crazy after she visits the prison and soon discovers Christian de Meuse could be a spy. Would she be in trouble for helping him if he turns out to be a spy? He has told her things, could she trust him?

Lady Lydia is brave, and devoted to her family. She’s willing to sacrifice what she can because she wants the best for them. She’s also self-sufficient and strong willed. She soon finds herself in predicaments that are dangerous for her and her family. She made and emotional decision that puts her life at risk, her reputation and causes her to struggle in her faith and relationship in God.

This was an intriguing story filled with mystery and reminded me a little of a T.V. series, Murder She Wrote, with Angela Landsberry, back in that time period. The novel is sweet, fun, romance Regency style, and full of twists, surprises and scandal. I’m thankful for the review copy of this book.

I enjoyed the Regency setting and the minor characters in this tale. They were delightful and enjoyed the natural spiritual thread. Stories like this make me appreciate our current time with our cars, cell phones and conveniences. It was harder to track down clues to solve the mystery back then, but people were different back then too. They paid attention to their surrounding and what people did. They weren’t obsessed with video games, and iphones. This is a fun read and I recommend this book to the historical minded and those who like a good mystery!

Reviewed by:Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

BibleRhymes' Christmas Story

2011-11-16T11:37:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for a Christmas book that evokes the spirit of Dr. Seuss? If so, then BibleRhymes' Christmas Story by K.W. McCardell with the artwork of Antonella Chirco is for you.

The Christmas story is familiar to almost everyone: Mary and Joseph are to be married, but Mary turns up pregnant before vows are made. An angel appears to both Mary and Joseph to reassure them. The baby is born in a stable.

But, you've probably never seen the story in rhyme:

"Mary and Joseph, a wonderful pair,
Were a couple in love who'd lock eyes and stare.

They wanted to share their lives to the end,
And planned to be married ... the ultimate friends."

What I Like: As I eluded to, the rhyming in this book is great. It is easy to read aloud, and the story is told in a fresh way. It frequently made me smile - even laugh once or twice.

The artwork by Antonella Chirco is simply amazing. I'm still trying to figure out what medium or mediums are used.

I also wanted to note that I think the quality of the book is superior to many books aimed at the same audience. The pages are of a rather thick paper, and they seem like they'd put up with abuse more readily than some. The price-point of this book may seem steep, but I really believe it's worth it.

What I Dislike: The only thing I really didn't like is the fact Mary and Jesus are both blue-eyed.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: 4 - 8

Publisher Info: BibleRhymes Publishing, LLC, 2008; ISBN: 978-0-9790605-2-6; Hardback, 28 PGS., $17.95

Special Info: The face of Jesus is shown, though only as a baby. We've also reviewed other books in the BibleRhymes series. You can find them here.

Buy it at Amazon.com for $17.95.

Jennifer Rogers Spinola's Southern Fried Sushi ~ Reviewed

2011-11-16T00:55:00.000-08:00

Southern Fried Sushi

By Jennifer Rogers Spinola

Published by Barbour Publishing, Inc.

ISBN: 978-1-61626-364-5

Back Cover:

Ride the rollercoaster of Shiloh Jacobs’s life as her dreams derail, sending her on a downward spiral from the heights of an AP job in Tokyo to penniless in rural Virginia. Trapped in a world so foreign to her sensibilities and surrounded by a quirky group of friends, will she break through her hardened prejudices before she loses those who want to help her? Can she find the key to what changed her estranged mother’s life so powerfully before her death that she became a different woman—and can it help Shiloh too?

Review:

Southern Fried Sushi is an intriguing combination of Tokyo, with its fast-paced lifestyle and elbow-to-elbow high rises, and the calm and peaceful lifestyle of America’s south. Shiloh’s life is an odd mixture of both, although she’s most comfortable amidst the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Or so she thinks, until a family tragedy sends her to a quaint town in Virginia. The fried food, collard greens, and mushy bread aren’t quite what she expected, but the people she meets along the way add palatability to her trip. Even draw her. This unexpected trip challenges her to see things and people differently, including her deceased, estranged mother.

I enjoyed Jennifer’s spunky writing and I found the dual settings unique. It was also fun to learn about Japanese culture, especially from one of their younger members. However, at times I felt this was overdone and forced. Personally, I found all the foreign words, which were often followed by definitions, distracting, but I imagine those intrigued by other cultures will enjoy this aspect of the novel. My interest wasn’t piqued until about forty pages in as much of the beginning presented conversations over various foods and other details that didn’t seem to contribute to the story. There were intriguing conflicts sprinkled in the early chapters, like Shiloh’s boyfriend troubles and a nearly missed deadline. However, I felt the long discourse offered in between detracted from the story. Once we got to Virginia, I caught a glimpse of Shiloh’s true struggles and began to empathize with her.

Those who enjoy lighter fiction that centers on unique locations will love Southern Fried Sushi.

Reviewed by: Jennifer Slattery

Clash of the Titles

Once Upon a Clear Dark Night

2011-11-15T10:00:00.000-08:00

Once Upon a Clear, Dark Night, written by Jeffrey E. Burkart, tells the story of the three Wise Men’s trip to Bethlehem to witness Jesus’ birth. The story is based on the Bible verses of Matthew 2:1-12.

It starts with the Wise Men seeing the star in the East. They then travel to Jerusalem to see King Herod. He instructs them to go to Bethlehem and find Baby Jesus, then return and tell him where Baby Jesus is. They travel to Bethlehem and bring gifts for the new King, but they are warned in dreams to return home without going back to King Herod.

The figures of the characters in the illustrations by Natalia Vasquez remind me of wooden carvings. They are colorful but not very expressive.

What I Like: This book is part of a series of books by the publisher that tell many different stories from the Bible. I like the continuity you get in a series of books.

What I Dislike: This book is written in rhyming verse. As many of you already know, I am not a big fan of books that are written in rhyme as it is difficult to do it and do it well. Unfortunately, this book is another example of a story written with rhymes that are sometimes forced.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: Arch books, 2011; ISBN: 9780758625793; Paperback, $2.49.

Buy now at ChristianBook $1.99!

Special Info: Read about the author at this website. Read our reviews of other books by Jeffrey E. Burkart. Read our reviews of other books illustrated by Natalia Vasquez.

Do You Love Me More? (Faith Basics for Kids)

2011-11-14T15:51:00.000-08:00

"Do you love me more than you did before?" This is what the little boy in Do You Love Me More? by Crystal Bowman and Ava Pennington wants to know. With illustrations by Kristi Valiant, we follow the boy through his day, where he frequently stops to ask God his question.

"My friends come by to have some fun.
I share my toys with everyone.

I help my friend who stubs his toe,
so God, I really want to know.

Do you love me more
than you did before?"

Then, the boy's mom pulls out the Bible, and explains the concept of grace.

"We read the book and then I see,
God sent his only Son for me.

He died for me and took my place.
God's love is free. He calls it grace."

What I Like: I love how this book is from a boy's perspective and he's questioning whether by doing good works, God loves him more. All too frequently, this seems to be the message in today's society. And the note to parents/teachers at the end gives some great verses to emphasize what the Bible says about being "good" versus being saved.

I also loved the fact that the family in the book weren't your homogenous white family. It's refreshing.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4 - 8

Publisher Info: Standard Publishing, 2010; ISBN: 978-0-7847-2916-8; Hardback, 26 PGS., $8.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $7.19.
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $8.99.

Special Info: We've reviewed other books by Crystal Bowman here.

Jamie Carie's Pirate of My Heart ~ Reviewed

2011-11-14T13:13:00.000-08:00

Pirate of My Heart

By: Jamie Carie

Published by B&H

ISBN#: 978-08054-4815-3

306 pages

Book Cover:

When her doting father dies, Lady Kendra Townsend is given a choice: marry the horrid man of her cold, money-grubbing uncle's choosing or leave England to risk a new life in America with unknown relatives. Armed with the faith that God has a plan for her, Kendra boards a cargo ship and meets American sea captain Dorian Colburn. But the captain has been wounded by a woman before and guards his independent life. A swashbuckling man doesn't need an English heiress to make him slow down, feel again, or be challenged with questions about his faith-or so he thinks. It is not until Dorian must save Kendra from the dark forces surrounding her that he decides she may be worth the risk.

REVIEW:

I was drawn to this book by the book cover and the title, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect! I ‘m thankful for the review copy of this entertaining adventure! This author pulls at your heart strings from the start when Lady Kendra is born and her mom Eilleen dies, poor Edward, Kendra’s dad, is left to raise his daughter alone! He does well as he devotes his entire life to raising her properly. His relationship with his daughter is special and brought a smile to my face!

Then Andrew Townsend arrives on the scene. He’s Edward’s twin brother. He begs Edward to help him out financially. Kendra knows her father wants to show God’s love to his brother, maybe help turn his life around, but tragedy strikes and Lady Kendra is left alone with her selfish, greedy uncle, to provide for her. The Uncle gives her two choices: she can marry a man that has sought her hand in marriage, who’s older than dirt or she can go live in America with relatives - she has to pick one – Kendra was no longer welcome in her own home!

Lady Kendra chooses America. Maybe these relatives would be nicer. How bad could it be? She has no idea the danger that awaits her on a ship full of men. She’s innocent and thought the best of everyone so she goes on board. Kendra has a strong faith and confidence God knew what was best for her even in tragic times.

Captain Dorian Colburn runs a cargo business. His rule is no passengers on his ship. But his first mate gives into Andrew Towsend’s pleading to take his niece to America so she could care for sick relatives. Andrew was willing to pay handsomely for his request.

Lady Kendra was very beautiful which sweetens the deal. Dorian was furious with his first mate until he met Kendra. Dorian emotions went all crazy inside when he spoke with her. He’d told himself he’d have to stay away from that one! He made a vow to Bachelorhood! Women tried to trap him into marriage all the time - he knew their tricks and he would not let this one catch him either!

Captain Dorian feels responsible to take care of Lady Kendra and protect her from the men. She was elegant and he wanted no harm to befall her. Lady Kendra and the Captain instantly start a playful banter and verbal sparing, each had a quick wit and sense of humor I enjoyed.

Lady Kendra fears pirates will take over their ship, where would she hide? The Captain assures her they won’t encounter pirates on his watch. Lady Kendra does her best to believe him and seek Gods' will for her life in this foreign land with relatives that don’t know her.

This is an enjoyable, sweet story of Lady Kendra and Captain Dorian. Parts of their relationship frustrated me as neither wanted to admit their love for the other and hurt my heart as Captain Dorian and Lady Kendra assumed the worst about the other. They react to each other out of their past pain, instead of talking things out.Ugh!

This novel is filled with action, adventure, love, redemption, trust, acceptance and hope. Some characters jump to conclusions without all the facts and behave poorly. I haven’t read a book by this author before. I’ll definitely jump into another adventure she’s written, this book was pure enjoyment! Look forward to another adventure this author will take me on!

Reviewed by: Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

The Tale of Baboushka

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

Combining elements of the Bible's harried Martha and the traditional story of St. Nicholas, Elena Pasquali's The Tale of Baboushka is a thought provoking Christmas folk tale.

Baboushka ("grandma" in Russian) works hard to maintain her home; there's not a speck of dust around and absolutely everything is in it's place. She also loves to sew, and has a cupboard full of dolls, teddy bears, and other tidily made toys. One winter night, Baboushka hears a knock. She's a bit grumbly because she's in the middle of cooking - but she answers the door to find three travelers in rich clothes. They are looking for a place to spend the night.

Baboushka welcomes them into her home, tucks their hats and cloaks away and serves them food and "home-brewed ale." She asks about their heavy bags. The travelers say they are "gifts for a king....A king for whom a new star shines...the king of love, the prince of peace." Excited, Baboushka wants to give the travelers gifts from her cupboard to take to the king. They tell her she should come along with them instead: "Leave cares aside and follow the king."

"'Oh...no!' said Baboushka. 'I...I'm not quite ready...I'll find your footsteps, and I'll watch for the star. But first I must sweep and clean and tidy and wash and iron and brush and scrub and so much more...'"

By the time Baboushka is done with her chores, she can no longer find the traveler's footsteps in the snow, and the bright star is gone from the sky. So she tries to find the king without guidance. On the way, she meets many children, and she can't resist leaving them with a sweet gift from her cupboard.

"Still she is seeking. Still she is giving, and all for the sake of the king of love."

What I Like: This folk tale was originally designed to explain the presence of gifts on Christmas - rather like the original stories of St. Nicolas. But what I most enjoy about the story is the important message that we must follow Jesus today - not wait until tomorrow. Like the Martha of the Bible, we must focus on God above all other things - even good things, like keeping a neat house. The illustrations by Lucia Mongioj are also appealing, in a folkish style slightly reminiscent of Russian design.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 5 and up, but my 3 year old likes the book, too.

Publishing Info: Lion; 2011; ISBN: 978-0745962757; hardback, 32 pgs., $14.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $10.94

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $9.99

Special Info: Read our other reviews of other books by Elena Pasquali.

The Twelve Prayers of Christmas

2011-11-13T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Twelve Prayers of Christmas, by Candy Chand, is a collection of a dozen poems told by various characters (for example, Mary, Joseph, a shepherd, and more) who experienced Christ’s birth. The book features rich, beautiful, two-page spread illustrations done by James Bernardin, with the text framed in simple boxes. The book starts with Mary pondering God’s plan (and her trust in that plan) and ends with the baby Jesus describing the stable.

What I Like: I like the idea of sharing each character’s reflections on what is happening. I loved, loved, loved the amazing illustrations. They were attractive, authentic, and inviting, with a classic “Christmas story” feel to them.

What I Dislike: The poems were nice but short. However, the stellar illustrations made up for the simple text.

Overall Rating: With a bargain price of $6.80 from Amazon, Excellent!

Age Appeal: Ages 3 and up

Publisher Info: HarperCollins, 2009; ISBN:0060776366; Hardcover, 32pgs., $16.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $12.49
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for a bargain price of $6.80.

The Christmas Story: Drawn Directly From the Bible

2011-11-12T10:00:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Story: Drawn Directly From the Bible, edited by Edward a. Engelbrecht and Gail E. Pawlitz, is, as the title implies, a story about Jesus’ birth, with the Scriptures being used as part of the actual text.

However, this isn’t your normal Christmas story. This one is divided into chapters and starts with a chapter titled, “The Birth of John Foretold.” The next chapter is “The Birth of Jesus Foretold.” Subsequent chapters tell the story Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, the birth of John the Baptist, the angel’s visit to Joseph, Jesus’ birth, and the visit of the three Wise Men.

Bible references are given for each chapter of the story. Each chapter also includes a list of vocabulary words that are used in the text, along with questions for the reader to answer, something for the reader to do, and a prayer to pray that corresponds to the text. For example, in the chapter titled “The Birth of John,” Luke Chapter One is given as the Bible reference. The vocabulary words are mercy, prophesied, redeemed, prophets and salvation.

The reader is asked: “When the baby was born, who came to rejoice with Zechariah and Elizabeth? What did Zechariah and Elizabeth name the baby? What did Zechariah say about the baby? All of these questions provide a background for discussion about the story’s contents.

The reader is told: “God’s people still sing Zechariah’s happy words. Make up a happy song about how God has blessed your family.”

The reader is given this prayer: “Heavenly Father, You sent John to tell people that Jesus was coming to forgive their sins. Thank you for grown-up people who tell me that Jesus loves me and can forgive the wrong things I think or say or do. Amen.”

The song "Oh, Come, Little Children” is printed on the inside of the back cover.

The illustrations, done by Corbert Gauthier, Cheri Bladholm, and Phil Howe, are beautifully painted, creating life-life characters that look like they could walk out of the pages of the book.

What I Like: Everything.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: Concordia Publishing House, 2011; ISBN: 9780758619082; Hardcover, $13.99.

Buy now at ChristianBook $10.99!

Or buy at Amazon.com $11.89.

Problems in Plymouth (Imagination Station #6)

2011-11-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

There's trouble in Plymouth, and young cousins Beth and Patrick are right in the middle of it. In Problems in Plymouth, the 6th book in the Imagination Station series by Marianne Hering and Marshal Younger, the children follow the trouble-making Hugh to Plymouth Plantation where none other than William Bradford is governor. But not-so-friendly natives are everywhere and they capture Beth and Patrick. Held hostage in a tepee, the cousins meet a young Pilgrim who got lost in the woods and was also captured. But before long, William Bradford and a group of pilgrim men come to trade items for the children.

But trouble doesn't stop there. Some natives are accidentally shot by the Pilgrims, their friend Squanto is missing, and Beth and Patrick are afraid Hugh might try to incite war between the Pilgrims and natives. Or, they speculate, maybe he wants to bring an advanced weapon - a musket - back to his own time of castles and knights.

In the meantime, Squanto is found and the Pilgrims and natives hold a big feast - later known as the first Thanksgiving. But Patrick is suspicious. Hugh still hasn't shown up. At last, they discover him in the store house, where he threatens the cousins with a musket. He steals Patrick's pouch and discovers a ring there - a ring he thinks will bring the Imagination Station to him. It does, but it also sends him back to his own time. Patrick and Beth follow him, using another ring to call the Imagination Station.

Back in his own time, book 6 now picks up where book 4 left off when Hugh disappeared in the Imagination Station: Hugh is arrested, and Beth and Patrick go back home.

What I Like: I always appreciate novels that make history more inviting, and I love the idea of covering the Pilgrims in more depth.

What I Dislike: Unfortunately, the authors barely scratch the surface of who the Pilgrims were - and often offer a conflicting account. For example, the book talks about the true event of the Pilgrims stealing corn from the natives; it also shows some Pilgrims having a definite war-like attitude. We don't even get to see how God is part of their daily lives, although Bradford does pray before the feast. Yet, at the end of the book, Mr. Whittaker says, "The Pilgrims were honest and trustworthy." But only Bradford is actually depicted as honest, trustworthy, and someone to try to be more like. In addition, this book has a weak plot. Lots of little things happen to the Pilgrims, but there isn't much of a story arch. This is especially disappointing after the really excellent book 5, Showdown with the Shepherd. Problems in Plymouth isn't a bad book, but it's not a great book, either.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 7 and up, but some younger kids will enjoy having this book read to them.

Publishing Info: Tyndale; 2011; ISBN: 978-1589976320; paperback, 128 pgs., $4.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $4.99

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $4.49

Special Info: Read our other reviews of other books in this series.

Kathi Macias's A Christmas Journey Home ~ Reviewed

2011-11-11T00:44:00.000-08:00

A CHRISTMAS JOURNEY HOME

By Kathi Macias

Published by New Hope Publishers (October 5, 2011)

ISBN# 978-1596693289

240 Pages

Back Cover:

During Isabella Alcantara’s seventh month of pregnancy, her parents and siblings are murdered in gang- and drug-related violence, simply because their home was targeted by mistake. Isabella knows she was spared only because she now lives in a different location, but she knows too that the same thing could easily happen to her and her husband, Francisco. When her grandfather offers to hire a “coyote” to bring them across the border to America, she agrees. But Francisco and Isabella are abandoned by the coyote and left to die. Francisco then valiantly sacrifices himself to get Isabella to safety. Homeless, nearly penniless, pregnant, and alone, Isabella determines to find a way to honor her promise to her beloved husband.

Living on one of the smaller spreads along the Arizona border, Miriam Nelson becomes furious with God and turns from her faith when her border patrol agent husband, David, is killed in a skirmish with drug smugglers. Though her mother and young son do their best to woo her back from the anger and bitterness that have overtaken her, they make little headway. Two widows—one driven by fear and a promise, the other by bitterness and revenge—must make their journeys along different pathways, but with the same destination: a barn full of animals that stands waiting for them on Christmas Eve. Forced to face their personal demons, Isabella and Miriam soon discover a common yearning that will bind them together in a most miraculous way.

REVIEW:

Looking for a warm cozy feel good Christmas story? – It’s not found here! Just like Jesus’ life on earth was not filled with cute fuzzy experiences but what he went through here on earth changed the world forever. It was miraculous and so was the ending of this book. Kathi Macias writes stories with heart and they have a mission. This story is to make people aware of Illegal Immigration. Even at the mention of this topic images and emotions stir, Kathi doesn't take sides. She shows the situation from many angels. I really liked that about her books.

This author looks at two women from different parts of the world - living completely diverse lives. Isabella is in Mexico, recently married and is 19 years old. After Isabella’s family is murdered by drug Lords her grandfather gives the couple his blessing and life savings. He wants them to flee to America in hopes of a better life.

Isabella’s husband Francisco secures a Coyote to help them get to the Promised Land. Instead they find themselves all alone in the desert, with no hope of survival.

Miriam is a widow raising her young son with her mother. Her husband patrolled the Borders and was killed doing his job. Enforcing immigration laws was what he did and she was angry at “those” people! The ones trying to cross the boarder, they were all the same and responsible for her being alone!

The author has you empathize with these women and their struggle, each trying to push past their hurts, fear and walk one step at a time trying to hear from God. Living out the Christian life wasn’t easy for Miriam or Isabella.

This is not an easy read as Isabella goes through a series of unfortunate events. It’s hard to read because I know that this kind of thing does exist. Kathi doesn’t get graphic but gives you a glimpse into their struggle. I like how this author shows the grandfather interceding for the young couple! He knows the power of prayer and does it without ceasing!

This is an emotional, gripping tale that will have you look at this situation with new eyes! Kathi also shows what greed, can lead to and what poverty does to people. In the end and all throughout the story reveals how we can only make it thru impossible situations with God working in us and through us with His love, compassion and forgiveness. When we let God work in us and through us our life and the people in our life are forever changed. I highly recommend this story and Kathi’s Extreme Devotion series; her books are unforgettable in so many ways!

Reviewed by: Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

Backyard Horses: Horse Dreams

2011-11-10T13:29:00.000-08:00

Prolific author Dandi Daley Mackall has written a charming new series for girls ages eight to twelve, called Backyard Horses. Horse Dreams, the first book in the series, introduces us to fourth-grader Ellie James, who longs for a beautiful show horse to call her own. Joining Ellie are her little brother, Ethan, who can't hear, and her best friend, Colt, who manages to still be a friend, despite entering the awkward stage of boy-girl friendships.

When Ellie's teacher assigns a science experiment for class, Ellie decides to try three methods of acquiring a horse. She will beg her parents for a show horse, cry and try to convince her parents to buy her a show horse, and pray for a show horse. After the experiment, she will document her results. Although Ellie's teacher laughs, she likes Ellie and is willing to allow her to try the experiment. However, Ellie routinely gets in trouble for day-dreaming in class. When Ellie blurts out "There's a horse out the window," everyone assumes Ellie is day-dreaming again.

When Ellie gets home from school, she learns her mom lost the same scrawny, filthy horse Ellie saw out the window! Thus begins a race to capture the horse before animal control stuns it. Plot Spoiler Ahead: Ellie calms the horse down and returns it to the rescue barn. Slowly, her dreams begin to change. Could this ordinary "backyard horse" be the answer to her prayers?

What I Like: I love the verse Mackall chose to begin the series. She gives us a brief definition of a backyard horse, saying, ". . . Backyard horses are often plain and ordinary on the outside. . . but frequently beautiful on the inside." Then, she quotes I Samuel 16:7, " The Lord said to Samuel, 'Don't judge by his outward appearance, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." This is a message tween girls can't hear too often.

I also like the inclusion of sign language in the book. Each chapter title is written in words and sign language. Ellie's friend, Colt, learned sign language just so he could talk to Ethan, too.

Mackall includes a glossary of horse terms, as well as a sign language alphabet at the back of the book.

The book is printed with large font and relatively easy vocabulary, making it perfect for younger readers ready for chapter books, or struggling readers, as well as any girls who love horses.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 8-12

Publisher Info: Tyndale House Publishers, 2011; ISBN: 978-1-4143-3916-0; Paperback, 150 pages, $5.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $5.49

OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $5.99.

Song of the Stars

2011-11-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

Written in free-flowing, poetic style, popular children's book author Sally Lloyd Jones turns the original Christmas story into something true, but different, in Song of the Stars.

"The world was about to change forever. And it almost went by unnoticed..." Jones begins. In the subsequent pages she imagines how nature might have reacted to the birth of the Savior. Leaves "rustle with a rumor," the wind "whispered it softly in the sycamore trees," a "big brown bear sniffed the air," "the skies shouted it to the seas that thundered it to the waves that roared it to the great white whales that sang it to the starfish in the deep"...and so on. Once in a while, an animal or plant cries, "It's time! It's time!," "Be glad!" "The Mighty King!", or "The Bright and Morning Star!"

The vivid illustrations by Alison Jay depict nature - presumably around the world - reacting to Jesus' birth, until finally we see Bethlehem with shepherds, sheep, and angels surrounding it, then a little barn, then a baby surrounded by animals, then the baby held by his mother and surrounded by animals, then Jesus' family. "Our Rescuer!" Mary cries, and all "gazed in wonder at God's great gift...Heaven's Son sleeping under the stars that he made."

What I Like: This picture book is unlike any Christmas book you've probably ever seen before. Jones' fresh take on the subject matter is based solidly on biblical fact, but shows plenty of imagination and creativity, too. I am reminded of Psalm 96, where the Bible says Jesus' return will be met with a roaring sea and rejoicing trees. Then would it be any wonder if nature rejoiced at his birth?

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Very Good.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 4 and up, but my 3 year old enjoyed it, too.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz; 2011; ISBN: 978-0310722915; hardback, 32 pgs., $15.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $10.87

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $5.99

Special Info: Read our other reviews of books by Sally Lloyd Jones.

Little Shepherd

2011-11-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

Tonight the Savior has been born… and a group of lowly shepherds are among the first to know it! In Cheryl G. Malandrinos’ story Little Shepherd, five-year-old Obed is in the middle of the action on that holy night. During Obed’s watch, he and his fellow shepherds are startled by an angel announcing, “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people…”

In short order, the shepherds decide, “Let us go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us.” Obed balks; he worries about what will happen to the sheep if they are left unattended. Nevertheless, when his father displays a calm trust, Obed sets aside his fears and travels with the other shepherds to Bethlehem.

They find the child just as the angel told them and then return to their fields rejoicing and singing praises to God.

The story ends with Obed discovering that in his absence, the sheep remained safe. He falls asleep remembering all the miraculous things he experienced that night.

Little Shepherd is illustrated by Eugene Ruble.

What I Like: I like the author showing Obed at work. He hears the wolves howl, scans the hills for danger, shivers in the cold, and warms himself by a fire. That sets the mood for the reader. The shepherds show great faith by leaving everything behind and immediately heading to Bethlehem. I also liked the description of the manger scene and Mary and Joseph.

What I Dislike: No Scripture reference is provided, which would have been nice. (It’s based on Luke 2.) Also, in the story text, Scripture is directly quoted from the NIV version. However, nowhere is the NIV Bible sited, and that bothers me. Finally, although most of the story stuck very close to the Scriptural account, there were some liberties taken. For example, God protected the sheep left behind from wandering off and from the wolves, but there is no Scripture to back that up. If I were reading this to my child, I would want to follow up by reading the event from the Bible and pointing out the differences between what is actually recorded and what the author added to the story. It would be a nice springboard for a discussion. Also, the pictures weren't my favorite.

Overall Rating: Very Good

Age Appeal: None is given, but I think the length of the text requires some measure of focus. So I suggest the grade K-2 group.

Publisher Info: Guardian Angel Publishing, 2010; ISBN:978-161633085: Paperback, 16 PGS., $9.95.

This book is NOT available at Christianbook.com.
Buy it at Amazon.com for $9.95.

Janelle Mowery's When Two Hearts Meet ~ Reviewed

2011-11-09T19:25:00.000-08:00

WHEN TWO HEARTS MEET

Janelle Mowery

Paperback: 304 pages

Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (October 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0736928103

Description:

Janelle Mowery (When All My Dreams Come True and When Love Gets in the Way) concludes her popular Colorado Runaway series with another adventurous story of faith, hope, and love in the Wild West.

Rachel Garrett finds that attaining her dream of becoming a nurse is fraught with peril. A deputy sheriff with a wall around his heart doesn’t help matters, but when she learns why Luke Mason has barricaded his heart, her desire to heal confronts an even greater challenge. Her need of his protection from an unknown assailant might be the force that sends his wall crashing down around them.

Luke became a deputy in order to find the men who killed his father. He turns his back on God, only to run into the fiery Miss Garrett, who is a constant reminder of his lost faith. As Luke hunts for Rachel’s attacker, he finds she has snared his heart. Faced with the fear of losing another loved one, he must decide whether he can learn to rely on God to save her—or run from the love both offer.

Review:

When Two Hearts Meet revolves around a young nurse named Rachel Garrett who moves to the Colorado Territory to work with Dr. Barnes, in Rockdale, Colorado. Her path keeps crossing with Deputy Luke Mason, who, despite his efforts to stay away from her, finds himself losing his heart to Rachel. When Rachel gets attacked by an unknown assailant, Luke decides to do all he can to bring them to justice.

This was such a great book. I love books set in the Old West. I enjoyed watching the change in Luke in this book. In the beginning, he is mad at God for taking his father from him at a young age, but through Rachel’s influence, you see Luke’s heart soften towards God throughout the book. This is a great read, and I highly recommend it!

Reviewed by: Sarah Porter

The Berenstain Bears Get Ready for Christmas

2011-11-09T10:42:00.000-08:00

Arranging the nativity scene is a highlight of the Berenstain Bears' Christmas in Jan and Mike Berenstain's new book The Berenstain Bears Get Ready for Christmas.

This is a simple little book showing the Bear family decorating for the holiday. In a box, they find baby Jesus in the manager - but they have to search throughout the house to find other elements of the nativity scene, each found under a lift-the-flap. For example, the "three wise bears" are behind the mantle clock, an angel is behind a vase of flowers, and the sheep are inside a cupboard door.

The book ends:

"Now the Bear family sets up their manager scene.
'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace!' says the whole Bear family."

What I Like: I really like the simplicity of this book; it does a good job of introducing or re-familiarizing young children with the basic elements of the Christmas story. And naturally, my 3 year old loved the lift-the-flaps. I'm also sure he'll be much more excited about our own nativity scene this year, due to this book.

What I Dislike: All lift-the-flap books are fragile, but this one has thinner flaps and pages than some others. Still, they seem strong - and so far my son hasn't ripped any of the flaps.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 2 to kindergarten.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz; 2011; ISBN: 978-0310720829; paperback, 12 pgs., $6.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $6.99

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $5.99

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

Deeanne Gist's Love on the Line ~ Reviewed

2011-11-07T20:00:00.000-08:00

LOVE ON THE LINE

By Deeanne Gist

Published by: Bethany House

ISBN# 978-0-7042-0409-8

365 Pages

Back Cover:

Rural switchboard operator Georgie Gail is proud of her independence in a man's world ... which makes it twice as vexing when the telephone company sends a man to look over her shoulder.

Dashing Luke Palmer is more than he appears though. He's a Texas Ranger working undercover to infiltrate a notorious gang of train robbers. Repairing telephones and tangling with this tempestuous woman is the last thing he wants to do. But when his stakeout puts Georgie in peril, he realizes more than his job is on the line.

REVIEW:

Why do I love Deeanne Gist books? Let me count the ways. First off I like the face she writers about smart, but sensitive women – these are women with a heart to do the right thing – and are often pioneers of their times. Second – Deeanne loves history and finds the most unusual and interesting things women did that wasn’t well publicized.

Third – The historical depth to her books help me get a peek into how folks lived back then and realize how far we’ve come socially and technologically in such a short time span. It’s astounding.

I’m thankful for the review copy of such a fun and educational book! I enjoyed Georgie Gail, the rural switchboard operator very much. I liked her spunk and the passion she had for birds that came calling at her window sill and in her garden. It was also fascinating to read about what was asked of a phone operator. People called Georgie to inquire about the shows playing at the Opera house and what times the show were. They called her to find out the price of turkeys and could they be delivered, called for the time because their time piece stopped working and my favorite call was to ask Georgie to watch for their cow that run off.

Georgie has a 12 year old helper named Bettina, who I enjoyed. Bettina got paid to deliver messages to people who didn’t have a phone. Georgia paid her out of her own money to help give the girl some treats her family couldn’t afford. All is well until Bettina says she wants to sell bird eggs to a man willing to pay her $5.00 for them and says, “I just wanted a sarsaparilla stick or one of them rock-and-rye drops. And sometimes, I get me a powerful thirst for a Dr. Pepper. I could get all that fer a nickel and still have money left over.” My have things changed. Imagine what she could get for five dollars back then.

Georgie’s mission is to save the birds. She felt it’s criminal to kill birds and their babies to decorate hats! Birds were our friends not something to be chased down and kill only to become an ornament on someone’s hat.

Then Luke Palmer storms into Georgie’s world. Luke’s the new lineman for the SW & T phone company. His job is to repair, install new phone lines and silicate new customers. He’s also an undercover Sheriff on a mission to catch train robbers, Frank Comer and his gang. He hopes to infiltrate a gang and get their ring leader. Frank Comer is a Robin Hood type of train robber. He only steals from the rich being the banks and lets the poor keep their money. People love him and don’t say much about the robberies, which makes Luke’s job harder.

Luke is prideful and has been on the road chasing bad guys so long he forgot how to treat a lady. Luke and Georgie butt heads! Both are strong willed and focused on their separate goals. Luke soon realizes Georgie had to be on his team in order for him to get the information he needed to complete his mission. That’s when the fun begins. Luke starts singing a different tune! Georgie wonders about him! Is he for real? Grin!

Deanne doesn’t disappoint. I learned so much about this time period and what it took to be a switchboard operator, all the while Deeann gives the reader fun information without bogging them down. This novel has all the winning combinations for me! This story was just plain fun! I highly recommend it!

Reviewed by:Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

Hi everyone! Yes, we're all still alive...

2011-11-07T02:38:00.000-08:00

Though some of us are in far better shape than others. So, here's a quick plugola for you.

I've moved my venerable commentary column, Finn's Wake, over to a blog. Come visit me there, won't you? It's available at:
http://marktheaginghipster.blogspot.com/

Also: I'm tweeting pretty regularly about funny things I think up, comments on pop culture, and the occasional retweet from one of my brilliant friends. If you follow me, you'll also get updates to the blog and info on any new projects that drop from me, like my upcoming comic book series, SCOUTS! and the 2nd edition of Blood & Thunder: The Life and Art of Robert E. Howard. Find me on Twitter at:
@FinnsWake

Now you know everything!

One Night in Bethlehem

2011-11-04T14:27:00.000-07:00

There are few kids who don't enjoy a touch-and-feel books, making Jill Roman Lord's One Night in Bethlehem a welcome addition to the Christmas bookshelf.

This board book begins with a mother and toddler boy playing with a nativity set. The little boy wonders what he might have done if he'd been present the night Jesus was born.

If he'd been a lamb, he thinks, he would have cuddled up to Jesus to keep him warm. If he'd been a cow, he would have mooed so loud everyone would know Jesus Christ was born. If he'd been an angel, he would have sung praises the loudest. If he'd been a shepherd, he'd have been the first to see Jesus. If he'd been a wise man, he would have brought the baby the gift of a teddy bear.

On all but the first and last two-page spread, there is a texture to touch: the lamb's coat, the cow's suede hide, an angel's silky robe, a shepherd's rough tunic, a glittery star, and a teddy's soft fur.

The book ends:

"Although I wasn't there that night
or near the manger stall,
I still can spread the news about
God's greatest gift of all.
I still can hoot and holler and
sing praises to His name
and shout, 'I love you, Jesus!
I'm so very glad you came.'"

What I Like: Lord is a proven writer with excellent skills; One Night in Bethlehem's rhyming text is easy to read and ignites children's imaginations about one of the greatest events in history. The illustrations by Paige Keiser are soft, showing the toddler boy as his imagined shepherd, angel, and wise man. Both my children also enjoyed the touch and feel aspect of the book.

What I Dislike: I think the touch and feels should have offered better variety.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: Baby and up.

Publishing Info: Candy Cane Press; 2011; ISBN: 978-0824918637; board book, 16 pgs., $8.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $8.99

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $7.19

Special Info: Read our other reviews of books by Jill Roman Lord.

Diane Noble's The Betrayal ~ Reviewed

2011-11-04T12:04:00.000-07:00

The Betrayal: Brides of Gabriel, Book Two

Diane Noble

Paperback: 304 pages

Publisher: Avon Inspire; Original edition (July 26, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0061980943

Description:

Ensnared in a religion she increasingly questions, Bronwyn faces an impossible choice.

When recently widowed Bronwyn becomes the second wife to Gabriel MacKay, she promises her new sister wife and best friend, Mary Rose, that the marriage will remain platonic. But she finds herself falling in love with the man who has promised to keep her safe—even as her heart struggles with her promise to her friend. When Gabriel marries a third wife, and as the practice of polygamy increases and the age of brides decreases, Bronwyn begins to question the righteousness of this new religion.

Even as the Saints journey to Salt Lake Valley, their new promised land, Bronwyn and Mary Rose plot their escape. But when they are suspected of treachery by Brigham Young's secret army—whose mission it is to punish apostates—the two sister wives face the most difficult decision of their lives, one that can mean life or death for those they love.

Review:

The Betrayal is book two of the Brides of Gabriel series, and revolves around the Mormon church. In this book, recently widowed Bronwyn becomes the second wife to Gabriel McKay, who’s first wife is her best friend, Mary Rose. Though she promises to keep the relationship platonic, she finds herself falling in love with Gabriel. As the story progresses, Gabriel takes a third wife, and Bronwyn and Mary Rose begin to realize the false teachings of the Mormon church, but are not sure what action to take, as the consequences of speaking out are severe. Bronwyn and Mary Rose begin to plan a means of escape, but if they are caught, it could cost them their lives.

I really enjoyed this book. I wish I had been able to read book one, but this book does a good job of filling the reader in, so you don’t feel like you missed much. One thing I liked about this book is how Bronwyn and Mary Rose’s eyes were opened to the TRUTH. It just goes to show that if you really want to know the truth, God will reveal it to you.

Reviewed by: Sarah Porter

Sandra Bricker's Always the Wedding Planner Never the Bride ~ Reviewed

2011-11-03T05:07:00.000-07:00

Always the Wedding Planner, Never the Bride

By Sandra D Bricker

Published by Abingdon Press

ISBN #: 978-1-4267-3160-0

314 Pages

Book Description:

As a wedding planner, Sherilyn Caine should have the perfect wedding experience...

After all, she just landed her dream job at the wedding destination hotel, The Tanglewood. The rest should be a piece of cake for Sherilyn's Type A personality.

But while everything else goes smoothly, her own wedding plans start to sink right before her eyes. One way or the other, Sherilyn is determined to make this wedding work—until the latest development threatens to call the whole thing off. Is it possible that Sherilyn is allergic to her fiancé?

Review:

I became aware of Sandra’s novel when it won the ACFW’s Book Club pick for December. I was thankful for the review copy and can’t wait for the discussion on the ACFW book club loop. The cover of this book says fun, fun, fun. I wasn’t disappointed.

Sandra has Emma Rae Travis and Sherilyn Carrie meet in college and then go separate ways because of career choices. The girls hoped that they’d work together someday in the future.

But life happens and things aren’t as they expected. Then the girls get a surprise, a glorious surprise. Sherilyn and Emma are in the same city, Atlanta; working together at the Tanglewood Hotel offering couples wedding packages. Then their dream come true an opportunity to work together; happened sooner than they expected. This isn’t what they expected. This reality had a few bumps in the road, could they navigate them and still remain close friends?

Along with the fun story line of the two friends living out their dream, Sandra shows the reader the practical side of planning a wedding, giving out helpful suggestions in preparing, such as 5 tips for choosing the prefect wedding dress, and the do’s and don’ts of a bridal registry; then she has the wedding planner’s ultimate Bridal Checklist, Wedding themes and the top 5 bridal flowers are also included.

Sandra’s new book is not only fun and funny to read it has some practical information and scrumptious recipes for the reader to enjoy as well. This books a hoot! I highly recommend it! When you finish reading you’ll be grinning from ear to ear!

Reviewed by: Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

Mommy Whispers

2011-11-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

A young mother looks at her newborn daughter, and it’s love at first sight… a love that grows and endures. Jenny Lee Sulpizio’s book Mommy Whispers captures the profoundly rooted connection between mother and daughter with a series of tender memories passed down from one generation to the next.

The story follows a girl from birth to adulthood. During each stage of the child’s life, her mother is there to pray for her, encourage her, and whisper this same refrain: “You are God’s gift to me, forever you will be.”

The bright colors, smiling faces, and whimsical energy of Peg Lozier’s illustrations capture the sentiments perfectly.

What I Like: Mommy Whispers holds the same kind of rich remembrance and parental devotion depicted in Robert Munsch’s bestselling story Love You Forever. It also enfolds in a similar fashion, lovingly providing snapshot images of certain stages of life, from infant to toddler to grade school to dating to marriage and then finally to birth again. I especially appreciated the prayer aspect. Any parent could learn a lesson from the well-crafted prayers Sulpizio weaves into the story.

What I Dislike: It is a little pricey for a paperback. But that shouldn't be a huge deterrent. And... this isn’t really a dislike… but a note. I think the story ---the poignant, fathomless love of a mother for her child… and then that child experiencing the same depth of emotion when she becomes a mother herself—would be better understood and appreciated by the adults reading it. I would likely give this book as a baby shower gift… to the pregnant mother rather than to the expected baby!

Overall Rating:Excellent

Age Appeal: None listed. It's described as a keepsake book. The snuggle factor might make it appropriate for the preschool through kindergarten crowd.

Publisher Info: Isaac Publishing, 2010; ISBN:978-1609200138; Paperback (or kindle), 34 PGS., $12.95

This book is NOT available at Christianbook.com.
Buy it at Amazon.com for $11.81.
OR Buy the kindle version for $6.99

Eli the Stable Boy

2011-11-02T06:23:00.000-07:00

Author Keith Ogorek used to tell this bedtime story to his daughters when they were children. Now published, Eli the Stable Boy can be shared with your children.

Eli is a young boy living in Bethlehem. His father is a shepherd. Eli desperately wants to follow his father into the fields with the sheep, but he also wants to make good choices. When their father asks Eli and his sister, Leah, to stay back and clean the stables, Leah chooses to abandon their work and play with her friends instead, but Eli decides to honor his word.

Eli prepares to head home after a long day of difficult, smelly work, but as he exits the stable, he meets a stranger accompanied by a donkey and a very pregnant wife. The man asks if they may spend the night in the stable. Eli considers what would be the right choice. He considers what he has heard from the rabbi and what he would want someone to do for his mother or his sister, then welcomes the strangers into the now cleaned stalls. He then leaves to fetch some water for them. When he returns, he hears a baby's cries and then sees his father running from the hills to find the Messiah. At the end of the story, readers learn that the baby's name is Jesus.

Eric Walton served as illustrator. His drawings are simple and primarily feature earth tones.

What I Like: This is a well-written, sweet story. It teaches good work ethics and the importance of honoring one's word.

What I Dislike: There is nothing overtly wrong with this story, but there is also nothing extraordinary that makes it stand out among a sea of other Christmas books telling similar stories and targeting the same audience. There seems to be an imbalance between the amount of text per illustration, which I've reflected in "Age Appeal" below. Also, as with most self-published books, the price is high.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: The publisher doesn't specify, but I would say, based on the length of the story, 6-10.

Publisher Info: AuthorHouse, 2009; ISBN: 1449041167; Paperback; 28 pages; $13.99

Buy it at Amazon.com for $10.85!

Beth Webb Hart's Sunrise on the Battery ~ Review

2011-11-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

Sunrise on the Battery
Beth Webb Hart
List Price: $15.99
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (October 11, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1595542000
ISBN-13: 978-1595542007

Description:

She wanted her husband to attend the town’s society-driven church.

God answered her prayer in a radical way.

An emptiness dogs Mary Lynn Scoville. But it shouldn’t. After all, she’s achieved what few believed possible. Born in the rural south, she has reached the pinnacle of worldly success in Charleston, South Carolina. Married to a handsome real estate developer and mother to three accomplished daughters, Mary Lynn is one Debutante Society invitation away from truly having it all. And yet, it remains—an emptiness that no shopping trip, European vacation, or social calendar can fill.

When a surprise encounter leads her to newfound faith, Mary Lynn longs to share it with her husband. But Jackson wrote God off long ago. Mary Lynn prays for him on Christmas Eve...and her husband undergoes a life-altering, Damascus Road experience. As Jackson begins to take the implications of the Gospel literally, Mary Lynn feels increasingly isolated from her husband...and betrayed by God. She only wanted Jackson beside her at church on Sunday mornings, not some Jesus freak who evangelizes prostitutes and invites the homeless to tea.

While her husband commits social suicide and the life they worked so hard for crumbles around them, Mary Lynn wonders if their marriage can survive. Or if perhaps there really is a more abundant life that Jackson has discovered, richer than any she’s ever dreamed of.

Review:

I've known Southern families like the ones described in this story - families with "old" money who had a culture all of their own. I've know people who tried to fit into that "world" with hard work and the success that followed - trying to make things "better" for the kids - and the mayhem that often followed. And I've known folks who have been radically transformed from the bondage of the care of the world through the blood of Christ. In short, I identified strongly with all of the characters in this story. I understood their fear, their longing to fit in, their longing to be accepted for who they were - the longing to be accepted by Christ.

This is a multi-layered story. Read beneath the surface and be prepared to be challenged by what you find there. This is a story that will touch your heart and challenge you to examine your spiritual motives. Great read!

Reviewed by: Kim Ford

Troo's Big Climb

2011-11-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

At one time or another, most young children feel their parents are holding them back from doing things they really could do. Like the little tree kangaroo in Troo's Big Climb, they believe their parents think they are incapable babies. If this sounds like your child, this level 2 "I Can Read" book by Cheryl Crouch is a great addition to your family bookshelf.

Troo brags to Rilla, the water rat, that he can climb the highest tree in the rainforest. Rilla doesn't believe him; she dares him to do it, even though Troo's parents have told him not to. Because Troo wants to prove his parents wrong, he takes Rilla up on her challenge.

The climb seems easy - although Troo stops a moment when he see his home from high up in the tree: Would his parents be happy if they knew? But when he reaches the top, he can't help but shout with glee.

Then a hawk tries to grab him. Troo jumps to a lower branch, but the branch breaks and sends Troo tumbling downward until he crashes to the ground.

"Rilla screamed, 'Are you dead?'
Troo moaned. 'Maybe.'"

Troo's parents come running. First, they ensure he's okay. Then Troo admits he disobeyed them. His parents say:

"God says you should obey us. You did not obey, and you got hurt. This tree...is not safe, even for a big, strong climber like you."

Oh! Trro's parents did not think he was a small, weak baby. They loved him. They wanted him to be safe."

And so, his loving parents carry him home.

What I Like: Both my children (ages 3 and 6) love this story. Both can well relate to the feelings Troo expresses - and both responded well to the reminder that parents are trying to protect their children when they say "no." The whimsical illustrations by Kevin Zimmer are also excellent.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4 to 8, but kids as young as 2 will enjoy having this book read to them, too.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz; 2011; ISBN: 978-0310718086; paperback, 32 pgs., $3.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $3.99 (or spend $2.99 for the Kindle edition)

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $3.49 (the ebook version is $2.99)

Mark Schultz and Travis Thrasher's Letter from War ~ Reviewed

2011-10-31T12:51:00.000-07:00

Letters From War
By Mark Schultz with Travis Thrasher
Published by: Howard Books
ISBN #: 978-1-4391-9731-8
288 Pages

Book Description:

Platinum-selling Christian music artist Mark Schultz pens a novella based on his award-winning song “Letters from War,” about a mother’s unwavering hope, courage, and steadfast prayers.

Every night, Beth leaves the front porch light on. Just in case. It’s been two years since her son, James, went missing while saving the life of a fellow paratrooper in his division. Beth’s faith has sustained her while she awaits word on her son’s whereabouts. Well-meaning friends encourages Beth to move on, but Beth continues to hope.

Review:

I’m thankful to have received a review copy of such a moving and tender novel. Beth’s son, James, goes off to serve his country just like his father did. The only thing James’ mom requested of him was that he writes her “real” letters, not emails. Beth says, “Emails can easily be lost. All with an errant click of a mouse or a press of a button.... but to discard a letter, you have to physically throw it away, something she’s been unable to do ever since getting the first letter. Words are different. Words reach the soul. She continues to read them to hear James and to keep believing.”

Beth says to her friend, “I can hear him speaking as she reads his words. They are beautiful just like he was. Here is a letter from James to his mom: “I’m not here to follow in Dad’s footsteps. I’m here to serve all of you and to serve this country... I am the infantry...I am my country’s strength in war, her deterrent in peace. I am the heart of the fight, wherever, whenever. I carry America’s faith and honor against her enemy... I am what my country expects me to be: The best-trained soldier in the world. In the race for victory, I am swift, determined and courageous, armed with a fierce will to win!”

These authors have written a touching and memorable novel from a military families POV . James, Beth’s son, and Britt’s husband are in waiting mode. They were waiting to hear of any news of James’ whereabouts. James has been missing in action for two years. Not a single word on his location or any indication if he’s alive.

Beth, Britt and Emily (James sister) feel like their life is on hold. Beth still writes letters to her son James, even though she knows no one knows where he is. It’s as if she stops writing all hope is will be lost – she couldn’t go there.

I liked the unique way these authors used letters written in this novel to James and from his family members to make the story gripping, intimate, and give the reader a personal peek at the ways families relate to one another when they are away. This is a powerful, eye opener, for a non-military person like myself. It really shows the heartache and all the family goes through when one of their loved ones goes missing in action. I could see through James voice he had a “call” to be a solider and his heart to defend his country so we can be safe! It also gives a little glimpse into how James, a believer sees war, “the things we’ve seen - its impossible not to be affected ... it’s not just my faith that’s kept me grounded and out of harm’s way emotionally. It’s been my family too, and my ability to compartmentalize and avoid bad habits. “These are the tools he uses to survive and complete his mission.

This novel gave me a look at the soldiers’ family and how they sacrifice their loved ones to keep our country free. It also reminded me of what I take for granted. It heightened my awareness of what others do to protect our country. I’ve loved Travis Thrashers novels and Mark Schultz’s music, this novel doesn’t disappoint. I’m so thankful for the opportunity to read a story that made me instantly care for the character, made me laugh and also cry. This book was a great reminder with the 9/11 10th Anniversary this year of all I am to be thankful for. It had me see our military men and their families in a whole new light. I recommend this book so all types of readers.

Reviewed by: Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network

Showdown with the Shepherd (Imagination Station #5)

2011-10-31T10:00:00.000-07:00

Attacks by ferocious wild bears, a near miss with a legendary giant, secret messages, and outsmarting a bad guy who wants to change history. Kids will discover all this and more in Showdown with the Shepherd, book #5 in The Imagination Station series written by Marianne Hering and Brock Eastman.

In this installment, Mr. Whittaker sends young cousins Patrick and Beth back to Bible times to ensure bad guy Hugh (from book #4) doesn't succeed in altering history. Upon "landing," the kids are immediately attacked by a bear. Just when it seems they'll be the bear's lunch, however, a young shepherd with a sling shot scares the bear away. Beth and Patrick soon realize this is David - who will someday be King of Israel.

David is on his way to the army camp to give food to his brothers, so Patrick and Beth go along with him. But David isn't well received by his brothers - even before he says he will defeat the giant Philistine called Goliath if no one else is brave enough to do so.

Yet before David can do battle, Hugh appears, wanting to speak to King Saul. He is working with the Philistines. After threatening the Israelites, Hugh throws fire powder into the torches, creating smoke that makes it easy for him to grab Beth and take her to the Philistine camp. There, Beth sees Hugh has helped create a weapon unknown in biblical times: A catapult. Using her harmonica to play the "ABC" song, she sends this message to Patrick, still in the Israelite camp.

Late that night, Patrick steals into the Philistine camp to rescue Beth. When David shows up, too, they try to disarm the catapult - but they're not sure Patrick's plan to do so will work.

The following day, David faces Goliath, knocking him out with a stone from his sling, then killing him with his own sword. But the Philistines - led by Hugh, who imagines lording over the Philistines once the war is over - throw a fireball into the Israelite army. Patrick feels defeated; his plan didn't work. But when the Philistines try to throw a second fireball, the catapult won't shoot and soons burns beyond use.

Their mission completed, Beth and Patrick head back to where the Imagination Station can take them back to their own time. But Hugh is there, too. To top it off, the bear attacks again, and Patrick, Beth, and Hugh barely escape inside the machine. When Beth and Patrick look up - Hugh, who entered the machine with them - has disappeared.

What I Like: Here is an action packed page turner any kid is sure to love. I read it to my 6 year old daughter in one sitting because she kept saying, "You've got to read what happens next! Read more! Read more!" I also really appreciate how the authors depicted David. As they write: "Patrick admired David's faith in God. He wished he could be more like the shepherd."

What I Dislike: Nothing, really, although I am not a big fan of the black and white illustrations in this book. (There are about 11). Illustrator David Hohn's work here is a bit too stylized for me; I don't like how the people look like walking skeletons. However, this is a minor issue in an otherwise outstanding book.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 7 and up, but kids as young as kindergarten will also enjoy having this book read to them.
Publishing Info: Tyndale House; 2011; ISBN: 978-1589976313; paperback, 120 pgs., $4.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $4.99

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $4.49

Special Info: Read our reviews of other books in The Imagination Station series.

C.S. Lewis: The Man Behind Narnia

2011-10-31T09:48:00.000-07:00

At 60 years old, the Narnia series by C.S. Lewis is as popular today as it was in the 1950s. Beatrice Gormley's C.S. Lewis: The Man Behind Narnia gives a great glimpse into the life of the creator, and everything that fed into the development of such a legendary series.

This biography takes you into the life of Clive Staples Lewis, beginning when, at the age of four, he pronounced himself "Jacksie." From then on, he was Jacksie--later, Jack--to his friends and family.

From the tragedy of his mother's death when he was nine, to his difficult childhood in boarding school, from his atheism to eventual accepting of Christ, C.S. Lewis: The Man Behind Narnia shows how everything Lewis did and experienced eventually led to the creation of Narnia.

What I Like: I often find biographies dry and boring. This one, however, was not. It was engaging, and I couldn't put it down. Many of the sources for the book are letters Lewis wrote to friends, relatives, and fans; this made the book very fresh--almost as though Lewis himself was telling us about his life and experiences in a third person form.

There are oodles of pictures in the book, which really helped define Lewis' world--and break up the monotony often found in biographies. They're not all of Lewis. Some illustrate his view from his rooms at Oxford, or picture the house he grew up in near Belfast, Ireland.

What I Dislike: There wasn't anything to dislike in this book; however, there was one minor instance where I wish the author, Beatrice Gormley, had been more clear. In Chapter 8, World War II is mentioned at length, and at one point, the book specifies that WWII ended May 9, 1945. And, it did--but only in the European Theater. The war continued until later that year in the Pacific Theater. This minor error is nothing that severely detracts from the overall quality of the book, but I should mention it.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 9 - 12, although some of the topics, such as Lewis' father's depression/alcoholism, the abuse Lewis suffered at Malvern College, and the advice to divorce that Lewis gave to the woman he would eventually marry may be more suitable for a slightly older reader, perhaps 11 and up. The "Further Reading" section also makes note of other books by or about Lewis, and a couple of these have warnings about the nature of the content found in them.

Publisher Info: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2005; ISBN: 978-0-8028-5301-1; Paperback, 192 pgs., $14.00

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $10.99
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $11.90.

Thank You, God, for Blessing Me

2011-10-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

If you want to teach your toddler how to have an attitude of gratefulness, you may enjoy Max Lucado’s book Thank You, God, for Blessing Me. In the story, Hermie the caterpillar thanks God for all his blessings: the beauty of nature, his family and friends, and for providing food and shelter. Hermie also asks God to help him be kind and obey… because that’s another way Hermie thanks God.

The book is written in rhyming text. Each page turn is a two-page spread, making the actual “story” only 5 pages long. The illustrations, done by Frank Endersby, hold enough detail to keep the attention of young readers. Endersby fills each background with either bright warm colors or soothing cool colors.

What I Like: The illustrations are sweet and appealing. The message is simple and easy to remember. The brevity of the story and sturdiness of the board book format makes it a great bedtime read for the infant to age 3 audiences. Kids who are already familiar with the Hermie character will likely enjoy reading it the most. It would serve as a great springboard to talk to your kids about prayer.

What I Dislike: Hermie thanks God for his eight little buggy feet. It’s good to thank God for this, but a true caterpillar would not have 8 feet. It would have 6 true legs at the front end of its body and five sets of prolegs at the back end of its body. If I were reading it to my little one, I’d probably pause to point that out. (It’s the teacher in me!) In addition, the meter of the poetry wasn’t quite consistent, which, at times, made it awkward to read aloud.

Overall Rating: Very good for kids infant through age 3. Good for children older than 3.

Age Appeal: Baby-preschool

Publisher Info: Thomas Nelson, 2011; ISBN:978-1400318032; Boardbook, 10 PGS., $6.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $5.99
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $6.99
OR Buy the kindle version for $5.59.

Special Info: Read CCBR reviews of other books by Max Lucado.

Three Cups

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

Teaching children about money by dividing up whatever they earn or are given is a popular technique. To help introduce this concept to children, Tony Townsley and Mark St. Germain's Three Cups may prove helpful.

The book begins: "On my fifth birthday, my parents gave me a wonderful present. They promised it would take me on many adventures." Still, the young boy pictured looks pretty disappointed when he opens his gift: Three coffee cups. More happily, there's a little money, too. His parents explain it's time their son earned an allowance. Each time he's paid, he'll divide up the money into the three cups: "One cup is for savings, one cup is for spending, and one cup is for giving," they explain.

When the boy's cups seem full, his mother takes him to the bank to help him open a savings account. Here, he learns that keeping some money in the bank will earn him interest. Next, his mother helps him count the money in his Spending Cup. He really wants a new baseball glove. He doesn't have quite enough money for that yet, but his mother assures him he soon will.

Finally, they look at the boy's Giving Cup. There is enough there to pick up some groceries and give them to the boy's teacher, who is collecting food for the needy. Later, the boy helps deliver the groceries.

The boy grows up, but he still uses the principles of three cups.

"By the time I was in high school, I had bought many things with money from my Spending Cup. With the money from my Giving Cup, I gave to my church and other organizations, and I helped many people. And when I graduated from high school, I used money from my savings account at the bank to help pay for the college I went to."

Then he reveals he has his own five year old boy. "Are you ready for an adventure?" he asks his child, as the boy opens a box containing three cups.

The last two pages of the book offer hints to parents about using the three cup method.

What I Like: The illustrations by April Willy are lovely - full of expression and interesting light plays. I also appreciate the basic concept of this book; if we want our children to be good stewards of the money that comes into their lives, we must teach them to earn their money and to handle it wisely.

What I Dislike: The price of the book seems high for the slim content it offers. True, the book's pages are thick and glossy, and the cover is hardback, but why not produce a more affordable book about spending money wisely? And while the idea behind this book seems mostly to get kids interested in the three cup method, I found the story not that interesting - as did my children, aged 6 and 3. The illustrations alone kept them sitting during the reading. In addition, while I suppose the publishers are hoping to reach a mainstream audience, I was disappointed there were no Bible references about money - and only one vague mention about tithing.

Overall Rating: Good.

Age Appeal: 4 to 8.
Publishing Info: Thomas Nelson; 2011; ISBN: 978-1400317493; hardback, 32 pgs., $9.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $9.99

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $8.19

Special Info: Read our other reviews for books about money.

Bible Story Search: Seek and You Shall Find

2011-10-27T18:36:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a book that will keep your child engaged for a long period of time, Bible Story Search: Seek and You Shall Find,written by Tracy Harrast will do just that. The stories featured in this book are: God Saves Noah and the Animals, God Brings Good from Evil (Joseph), God Helps the Little Guy (David and Goliath), God with Us (Jesus' Birth), Jesus Chooses Twelve Helpers, Jesus Feeds More Than 5,000, Jesus Rides Like a King, and Jesus' Last Supper.

Each story is told simply, with detailed illustrations by Steve Cox. On the sidebar, there is a list of hidden pictures to find, with a number of how many of each picture there are in the scene. A plastic magnifying glass is included with this book to help little sleuths see the pictures even better.

What I Like: I love so many things about this book, but my favorite thing is that the book is truly kid-friendly. Some look and find books have the lists of hidden items written, and my beginning reader needs to keep asking me what she is supposed to find. In this book, words, numbers, and illustrations are used. My daughter is able to truly peruse this book all by herself!

What I Dislike: Nothing!

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 4-8

Publisher Info: Concordia Pub House, 2011; ISBN:0758627289 ; Hardcover, 24 pgs., $14.99

Buy it at Amazon.com for $11.69

Special Info: There are pictures of Jesus in this book. We have reviewed more books by this author.

Virginia Smith's Age before Beauty ~ Reviewed

2011-10-27T14:54:00.000-07:00

Age before Beauty, a novel

Virginia Smith

Contemporary Fiction

Paperback, 313 pages

Publisher: Revell, 2009

ISBN: 978-0-8007-3233-2

Back Cover Description:

What will she give up to have it all?

Allie Harrod is ready for a new career. She doesn't want to go back to full-time work and risk missing her baby's first smile. But she does want to contribute to the family income, and a home-based business seems like the perfect solution. Sure, she dropped out of Girl Scouts because she was lousy at cookie sales, but selling makeup is different, right?

Still, the challenges Allie faces seem to be rising as fast as her credit card balance. None of her clothes fit, her mother-in-law is driving her batty, and her husband only leaves the couch to go help his beautiful-and single-coworker with her home repairs. What's a working girl to do? A lighthearted story of family and finding focus, 'Age before Beauty' is the second book in the "Sister-to-Sister" series.

Review:

This book accurately portrays the struggle of the modern woman-to have it all, do it all, be a size 2, best mom ever, hottest wife on the planet, and capitalist extraordinaire...without any problems or effort...as far as anyone else knows, anyways. I was really drawn to this books raw honesty and humor and thoroughly enjoyed it! The way she brought in spiritual truths such as God's love, will, sovereignty, and provision in our incapability, shortcomings, and unlovableness made it all the more difficult to put down. I found myself wishing I'd read the first book, more focused on the now follower-of-Christ sister, Joan. I highly recommend making time to read this book!

Reviewed by: Rachael Schnitker

Orbit the Angel Cat

2011-10-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

Sam the cat is very sick. He is too sick to sit with his siblings (Betty, John and Scott) by the window to see the snow. The siblings see another cat approach from a distance. Next thing they know, the new cat is in the house, cuddled up with Sam. The other cats want to know who the intruder is and why he is there. He says, “My name is Orbit and I’m here because Sam needs me…to help him remember love.” Spoiler alert: Sam passes away. But, he goes peacefully while remembering all the good things in his life.

Orbit the Angel Cat, written by Michael Joyce and Linda Max Collins is a metaphorical story about dealing with the loss of a loved one. In this instance, a cat family must deal with the loss of their sick sibling. Orbit, an angel cat, comes to Sam (the sick cat) to comfort him and “help him remember love.”

The illustrations by Linda Max Collins are simple and child-like and they work well with the text.

This verse, from Hebrews 13:2 is given as a reference at the end of the book: “Be not afraid to have strangers in your house. For some thereby have entertained angels unawares.”

What I Like: I like this different approach to talking about a difficult subject. Children should be able to identify with the characters

What I Dislike: I like the illustrations and the text, but I thought the layout was a bit boring. All of the illustrations are on the right-hand side of each two-page spread with the text on the left. There is no variation of this layout. It’s not a big issue, I just thought I’d point that out.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: No age group is given but I would say 4-8 would be the right age group.

Publisher Info: ISBN: 9781461055891; Paperback, $12.00

Buy now at Amazon.com $8.64!

The Color of Grace

2011-10-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

When a little boy asks his mother what grace looks like, his mom takes the opportunity of a teachable moment in The Color of Grace by Jennifer Neill. As illustrated by Amy Fox and Charles Bishop, the boy continues to ask questions about grace as the mother prepares her son for bed.

Momma, what does grace sound like?
It sounds like the water flowing down from a stream.

What I Like: The illustrations by Ms. Fox and Mr. Bishop are very nicely done. Thematically, they seemed to be a bit on the Christmas-y side of things, although I don't think this is meant to be a Christmas book.

What I Dislike: I really grappled with the theme of this book, and never could understand it very well despite multiple read-throughs--more than average for most of the books I review here. Its concept seemed so out there, I didn't think it was very believable or even understandable. Perhaps if there had been a foreword of some kind by the author to explain the book it would have helped in my comprehension of what was trying to be conveyed, however the only bit at the beginning was a list of several names Jesus is known by, which are referenced to one degree or another throughout the story, as well as a scripture from Titus.

Overall Rating: This is a book I just didn't "get" so for that reason, I have to give it a Ho-hum rating.

Age Appeal: 4 - 8

Publisher Info: In the Wind Books, 2010; ISBN: 978-0-9817749-2-3; Paperback, 28 PGS., $12.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $9.99
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $12.99.

Martha Alderson's The Plot Whisperer ~ Reviewed

2011-10-26T06:02:00.000-07:00

The Plot Whisperer

Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master

Martha Alderson

Paperback: 256 pages

Publisher: Adams Media (October 15, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1440525889

When it comes to writing bestsellers, it's all about the plot. Trouble is, plot is where most writers fall down--but you don't have to be one of them. With this book, you'll learn how to create stories that build suspense, reveal character, and engage readers--one scene at a time.

Celebrated writing teacher and author Martha Alderson has devised a plotting system that's as innovative as it is easy to implement. With her foolproof blueprint, you'll learn to devise a successful storyline for any genre. She shows how to:

• Use the power of the Universal Story

• Create plot lines and subplots that work together

• Effectively use a scene tracker for maximum impact

• Insert energetic markers at the right points in your story

• Show character transformation at the book's climax

Review:

There are a lot of good books on story structure and plotting. What works for one writer doesn't work for another. The Plot Whisperer is definitely for those who are plotters or need to be. I found it to be filled with excellent useable tools, something that some books lack.

Reviewed by: Ane Mulligan

Senior Editor Novel Rocket

Bonus Review:

Look on any writer's shelf and you'll discover what their weakest link is. If they can't structure a sentence to save their life, then you'll find a boatload of grammar books. Character development? You guessed it. How to bring your protags and antags to life. Come on over to my house, and you'll see quite a collection of books on plot.

So here's another one...one I just might set on a display stand.

The Plot Whisperer is chock full of hands-on, real world ideas that can shore up a sagging plot better than duct tape and two-by-fours. Really. I've dog eared and highlighted this baby until it barely resembles a book anymore. And I've taken to quoting it on my blog.

But why? Because author Martha Alderson communicates effectively how to breathe air into a lifeless plot. Throughout the book she sprinkles writing challenges (called Plot Whispers) and concise encouraging tidbits (The Writer's Way). After reading yet another plot book, this one leaves me not only encouraged but energized to plan out my next book.

If plot is your bugaboo, go get yourself this book.

Reviewed by: Michelle Griep

Boby and Larry's Creation Vacation

2011-10-25T12:38:00.000-07:00

If your kids like Veggie Tales, they are sure to enjoy learning about each day of creation in Bob and Larry's Creation Vacation. In this "I Can Read" level 1 book written by Karen Poth, Larry is planning a special vacation. "We're going to see all of God's creation!" he says. "We don't have enough time," says Bob. But Larry says all they need is 7 days.

"On the first day, God made the light," Larry says. So on this, their first vacation day, Bob and Larry bask in the sun at the beach, enjoying the light. "It was a good day!" Later, Larry says "God made the night" and he turns out the lights. Because Larry snores, "It was a better night for Larry than for Bob." "On the second day," Larry says, "God made the sky!" So the two friends fly on gliders.

And so on goes the vacation, each day citing a day of creation, as presented in the first two chapters of Genesis. At the end of the book, Bob and Larry are worn out from their vacation. It is the seventh day "so just like God, they decided to rest." The last page reads:

"And God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good."

What I Like: I like this fun approach to teaching kids about the days of creation. Few books on this topic hold my kids' attention, but this one does. It's a great way to introduce the topic - and follow it up with a reading about creation direct from the Bible.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4 to 8, but kids as young as 2 will enjoy having this book read to them, too.

Publishing Info: Zonderkidz; 2011; ISBN: 978-0310727316; paperback, 32 pgs., $3.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $3.99

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $3.49

Special Info: Read our other reviews of Veggie Tale books.

Tracie Peterson's House of Secrets ~ Reviewed

2011-10-25T06:09:00.000-07:00

House of Secrets

By Tracie Peterson

Published by: Bethany House

ISBN#978-0-7642-0618-4

309 Pages

Back Cover:

When her father orchestrates a surprise trip to the summer house of her childhood, Bailee Cooper is unprepared for what follows. What is intended to be a happy reunion for Bailee and her sisters, Geena and Piper, quickly becomes shrouded by memories from the past.

Together again, the three sisters sift through their recollections of fifteen years ago...of an ill mother, and of their father making a desperate choice. They vowed, as children, to be silent--but one sister believes the truth must now be revealed. Yet can they trust their memories?

Mark Delahunt arrives in the wake of this emotional turmoil. Determined to win Bailee's affection, Mark becomes the strong fortress for her in this time of confusion, and what was once a tentative promise begins to take root and grow. Caught between the past and an uncertain future, can Bailee let God guide her to heal the past and ultimately to embrace love?

Review:

Thanks to Bethany House for the review copy of a compelling, honest look at family-the good the bad and the ugly. This author tackles a subject not many want to think about or know how to deal with and that is mental illness.

The title grabbed my interest; I loved the word pictures it created in my mind. I wondered how Tracie Peterson would handle mental illness in her novel. This story begins with a father calling an important family meeting. No so strange but it is in their family. Bailee was twenty-four years old and last had a family meeting the day their mom died. All three sisters are to meet their dad at their family’s vacation house. Nobody can figure out what the big news their dad had to share.

They haven’t been back to this house since their mother passed away in it 15 years ago. After that the girls were sent off to boarding school. Their father worked hard and through summers so they had nannies; they didn’t have much of a relationship or a family for that matter. It all died with their mother.

Bailee thinks to herself, “I was being drawn back to that house of secrets – to those hidden memories of loss and sorrow. For so long I had fooled myself into believing the past would never catch up with me. But now the moment of truth had come…and if there was a hell, I just knew that demons were dancing in delight.”

Needless to say no one was thrilled about this meeting. They talked about the family secrets they kept since their mother passed. Did they dare confront their father about what they thought had happened that night? If they did their whole family dynamic would change. But, frankly there wasn’t much there now so what could it hurt?

I liked what Tracie had to say about pain and secrets through her characters, “Some people hold onto pain. Not for the feeling of anguish, but because it’s all that’s familiar. Like holding a long, long grudge; it’s a known element – something recognizable. There’s a warped sort of comfort in that… it aids in the choices we make for ourselves. We can cradle the hurt and pain – wrap it around us like a shield to keep ourselves safe from attack – or we can let it die.”

This was a new thought for Bailee. “Let it die… Could a person really let pain die? Could they stop feeling it and nourishing it with reminders and accusations of the past?

…Bailees friend said, “We don’t have control over what another person does or how they feel. We only have control over how we respond to it – what we do with it.” Amen to that!

I was instantly engaged in the lives of these three sisters and how they were determined end their family secrets and expose everything. I also felt their anguish of time lost with each other and of the one they didn’t want anything to do with - God. If He was loving why did Bailee and her family suffer?

I’d like to think that all families could sit down and talk about secrets, pain, disappointments and begin to forgive like Bailee’s family did. Yes, anything is possible through Christ that strengthens us and I know God moves in mysterious ways. He’s creative and resourceful in how He heals. I also realize not everyone accepts Christ when given the chance. Life is messy and most the time isn’t tied up in a nice neat bow!

It was quite fascinating to read about how each person dealt with the unfolding drama when all the secrets are out in the open and they soon found out not everything was as it appeared. It just proves you can’t really rely on what you see. There is so much more to the story that you don’t see in real life and in this novel. Little ones don’t have a grasp on what happens in a grown-up world. It was fascinating how Tracie dealt with this.

This was the first novel I’ve read by Tracie Peterson. I liked it so much I’m definitely looking up her others. I enjoyed the fact that she wrote this book in first person and that person wasn’t a believer. It was interesting to experience things through her eyes. It wasn’t preachy, but real. How do you show the love of Christ to someone who’s deeply hurt? There's no formula or pat answer in how to do this. I liked how the author handled this subject on many fronts. I liked how Tracie deals with the powerful spiritual thread which is skillfully interwoven into the story as this family faced the emotional land minds of past secrets. I liked her balance and skill in showing how this hurting family dealt with the issues and loved each other through it all.

I highly recommend this book not only for an entertaining read but it’s a read that will open your eyes to how to navigate through emotional healing at any age. Tracie does a good job in showing that God does care and is with us always even when we can't feel his presence in the middle of the storm.

Reviewed by: Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

God Comes to Us Like a Caterpillar

2011-10-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

Jesus' parables are great stories--but how do they apply to me? To my life? This can be a question kids ask--maybe not out loud, but when they hear the pastor drone on about the parable of the mustard seed for the third time in a year, it can seem dry and even unimportant. However, in Kent Chadwick's God Comes to Us Like a Caterpillar, Jesus' parables are retold in a way that will interest your grade-schooler and pre-teen.

For instance, the parable of the lost drachma from Luke 15:8-10 is retold in this manner:

Jesus said, "If a girl has ten dollars yet loses one in her room, won't she turn on all her lights and clean her whole room and hunt for it until she finds it? And when she finds it she'll call to her brothers and sisters and mother and father and say, 'Hey, isn't it great? I found the dollar I lost!'"

Seventy-eight unique parables from the Gospels are re-told in interesting ways throughout God Comes to Us Like a Caterpillar.

What I Like: The book is very well organized, and you can tell the author took great pains to try to be as true to the original parables while spinning them into modern language. Several of the stories are funny, all are thought-provoking.

All of the stories list the part or parts of scripture the original story came from so you and your kids can go back and see exactly what Jesus said. I really appreciated this since there were several stories I didn't remember.

Each story ends with a short question or two to get the reader thinking about how the parable applies in his or her life. This is why I believe this could be a good family book or even devotion, as long as your kids are old enough.

What I Dislike: There's nothing about this book I dislike.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 9 - 12

Publisher Info: Wisdom Press, 2010; ISBN: 978-1452889221; Paperback, 118 pgs. $10.00

Buy it at Amazon.com for $10.00.
Also available for the Kindle for $5.00.

Mainstream Author Highlight: Louis Sachar

2011-10-24T12:45:00.000-07:00

My daughter has been asking me to review Louis Sachar's Newbery award-winning novel Holes, for months. Holes is one of her favorite books. She has read it several times a year for the past three years. Sachar is a prolific, widely acclaimed author, and many of his books are popular choices for in-school read-alouds (at least at the school my children attend).

The most compelling reason to read Louis Sachar's books is the way he captures the lives and personalities of children who are disconnected, disillusioned, or disenfranchised. His main characters are usually those for whom the "system" is not working well. Whether they are in school, the juvenile justice system, or working, they often don't fit in with the majority. Sachar's books will appeal especially to reluctant readers and those who have trouble "fitting in." I was surprised my daughter likes Holes so well, since the hero is not particularly cute, funny, or endearing, and the mystery involves deadly, yellow-spotted lizards, poisoned nail polish and a lynching gone wrong.

In Holes, Sachar tells the story of Stanley Yelnats, who is sent to a "camp" for delinquent boys. There, he is made to dig giant holes, every day. Little does Stanley know, the ominous Warden is using the boys to help her solve a mystery. Stanley's story is interspersed with tales of "Kissin' Kate Barlow," a schoolteacher-turned-outlaw. Holes uses Stanley's new-found courage, a one-hundred-year-old mystery and unexpected adventure to raise interesting issues about race, injustice, friendship, and resiliency. The end of the Newbery-award winning novel ties all the story threads together, in a triumphant and satisfying conclusion.

Small Steps takes place after Holes, and revolves around Zero and Armpit (two of the secondary characters in Holes). Appropriate for older readers (14 and up), Small Steps has a particularly profound theme. Since Armpit has been released from Camp Green Lake, he is trying to make the best of his life. He knows, in order to be successful, he must focus on "small steps," instead of getting overwhelmed by the big picture. When Zero finds Armpit and ropes him into a crazy, not-quite-legal scheme, Armpit finds himself having to make choices and face consequences. Slightly more far-fetched than Holes, teens will nevertheless appreciate Armpit's dilemmas, as he is thrust into a friendship with a beautiful, teenage rock star. Teens can learn a lot from Armpit's choices (good and bad). They will also learn a lot from Armpit's close friendship with Ginny, a younger, disabled girl.

There's a Boy in the Girl's Bathroom should be required reading for all teachers and school counselors, as well as children who need help understanding the "naughty" child in their class. Fifth-grader, Bradley Chalkers is known for being mean and never turning in homework. Sachar expertly gets inside Bradley's head and explores his motivations, ideas, and feelings. Bradley routinely cuts up his homework, punches kids in his class, and tells his counselor he hates her. However, his counselor's persistent kindness works a slow, but definite change in Bradley, and ends as a touching, tear-jerker.

Sachar is also well-known for his Sideways Stories from Wayside School series. The first book is a collection of silly, funny, and bizarre stories about students in an elementary school classroom. The humor is a bit dark--the teacher turns naughty students into apples in order to eat them, and a rat tries to disguise itself as a student--but Sachar clearly empathizes with the students.

What I Like: I like Sachar's unique perspective. Often, books highlight the "good" students, who enjoy school, or they villianize teachers and parents. Sachar does neither, and instead, showcases the good aspects of even the "rough" kids' personalities.

I also like the way Sachar shows realistic choices and their consequences, both positive and negative. All of his books leave lots of room for discussion and learning.

What I Dislike: Some of Sachar's rough or unsavory characters swear in his books for older readers (Holes and Small Steps). Also, God's name is taken in vain occasionally. Alth0ugh the swearing adds a realistic dimension to the characters, it is unnecessary and detracts from the overall positive message of the books.

Also, Sachar's humor takes a little getting used to. It is darker than most children's books.

Overall Rating: Good, due to language, but very good in terms of content.

Age Appeal: Varies--6 to Young Adult

Publisher Info: (Holes) Yearling, 1998; ISBN: 978-0-440-41480-3; Paperback, 233 pages, $6.99

Buy Holes now at Christianbook.com for $5.99.

Buy Holes at Amazon.com for $5.04.

Buy Small Steps at Amazon.com for $9.99.

Buy There's a Boy in the Girl's Bathroom at Amazon.com for $6.99.

Buy Sideways Stories at Wayside School at Amazon.com for $5.99.

Special Note: While Holes has been made into a movie, I have not seen it. Also, in Small Steps, teen pop star, Kaira DeLeon, mentions many of her songs are about sex, but she is still a virgin.
PLOT SPOILER AHEAD: In Holes, an African-American man is shot for kissing Kate Barlow (who was intending to marry him).

mialacena

2011-10-24T09:38:00.001-07:00

welcom fellow all my friends from around the world, enjoy

Susan May Warren's Baby, It's Cold Outside ~ Reviewed

2011-10-24T06:29:00.000-07:00

Baby, It's Cold Outside

By Susan May Warren

Published by Summerside Press

ISBN-13: 978-60936-215-7

Dottie Morgan has no desire to share her home—or her heart—this Christmas. After all, her holiday spirit froze over when she lost her son in World War II. But when the blizzard of the decade descends on Frost, Minnesota, trapping Dottie in her home with four near strangers, she discovers that opening her door might also open her heart to a miracle ... and a new reason to celebrate Christmas.

Baby, It's Cold Outside has an eclectic cast of characters from Dottie the curmudgeon, Jake the pretender, Gordy the neighbor, to Violet the WAAC. Warren's characters take you into their hearts and don't let go. I laughed and cried and turned pages all night long. Baby, It's Cold Outside is a must read this Christmas! Novel Rocket and I give it our highest recommendation: a 5-star read.

Reviewed by: Ane Mulligan, Sr. Editor

Novel Rocket

Sophie, Pay Attention (Rhoda, You Too)!

2011-10-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Has your child ever forgotten to do his homework? Or had trouble paying attention to little details? In Susan Barnett Baun’s Sophie, Pay Attention (You Too, Rhoda)!, young Sophie is struggling with the same problem. Not only that, but Sophie’s family doubts her when she says she’s spotted a deer in their yard. Their disbelief causes no end of frustration to Sophie. Sophie knows she needs to do something… but what?

Along comes Mrs. Westfall with a Sunday School lesson about another young girl who sounds a lot like Sophie: Rhoda. Rhoda was with a group of Christians who were praying for the apostle Paul when, lo and behold, Paul comes knocking on their door. Rhoda answers it, and is so excited she forgets to let Paul in. Then when she runs to tell the others, no one believes her. Inspired by the Bible story, Sophie determines to work hard, to do the right thing about her homework, and to keep telling the truth about the deer.

The story is told in first person with age appropriate language. Sophie is a likeable character with a good heart.

What I Like: I have been a long-time advocate for Christian children’s fiction written for this age group… so it’s refreshing to see another book geared toward this particular audience. Plus the story has a good takeaway value without being preachy. It reminds me of the Natalie books by Dandi Daley Mackall (targeted toward a slightly younger age group) and the Meghan Rose books by Lori Z. Scott (for grades K-2) and Cindy Kenney's Precious Girl's Club series (geared for ages 9-12). Sophie isn't quite as well written, but it’s still an easy and enjoyable read. If your children like those series, they'll probably like Sophie too. I also LOVE the price. You can hardly go wrong when the cost is so reasonable.

What I Dislike: This is minor, but I didn’t particularly care for the first half of the opening chapter, which read like a laundry list. I would have liked a stronger opening. Even so, once the author got into the action of the story, I found it engaging and fun.

Overall Rating: Very good

Age Appeal: The publisher lists ages 6-9.

Publisher Info: Amazon Digital Services, no year listed; ASIN: B005P3NKJ0; available in Kindle version only, 23 PGS., $2.99

This book is not available at Christianbook.com.
Buy the kindle version at Amazon.com for $2.99.

God Bless Me: A Child's Prayer Book

2011-10-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

God Bless Me: A Child’s Prayer Book, written by Sophie Piper, is a collection of almost 150 short prayers for children. Some are traditional prayers and some are by well-known people like St. Francis of Assisi and Mother Teresa, but most of them are by the author. Also, most of them are written in rhyming verse.

Here’s a sample prayer:

Dear God,
Help me to forget my
mistakes but to remember
what they taught me.

The prayers are categorized according to theme with prayers for being sorry, making amends, and holidays, amongst others. A Table of Contents lists the prayers by category. There is an Index of First Lines at the end of the book, which, as the title implies, lists the first line of each prayer alphabetically.

The illustrations by Barbara Vagnozzi are bright and expressive and work well with the text.

What I Like: Everything.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Publisher Info: Lion Children’s Books, 2011; ISBN: 9780745961514; 160 pages, Hardcover, $14.99.

Buy now at ChristianBook $11.99!

Or buy at Amazon.com $11.69.

Special Info: Read our reviews of other books by Sophie Piper.

Scary Spring: Our Polio Fright of 1955

2011-10-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

Carol A. Hartnell has written a fun, semi-autobiographical series detailing life in the 1950s, called The Adventures of Pete and Carol Ann. Carol Ann and her friend Pete live in an era of hot rods, red vinyl and silver chrome, malt shops and neighborhood friends. However, Pete and Carol Ann must also face polio scares, vaccination shots and the grumpy old man next door.

In Scary Spring: Our Polio Fright of 1955 Carol Ann's Aunt Ruthie is a doctor working on the latest vaccine for polio. Carol Ann doesn't like shots, and her spring is overshadowed by her fear of receiving the vaccination. However, she still has plenty of time to have fun, whether she is entertaining her siblings or the beagle puppy next door, planning for Easter, or watching the teens in their fast cars. Pete is always up for helping entertain the younger kids, as long as Carol Ann's mom has warm cookies waiting!

Carol Ann and Pete learn to trust God despite a car crash, a malt shop altercation and a serious illness. They also learn about true friendship when they realize people aren't always who they seem to be.

The book includes black and white, captioned photos of the real Carol Ann, her siblings, Aunt Ruthie and polio vaccine inventor, Dr. Jonas Salk. The "Epilogue" provides additional information about Dr. Salk, a list of references, and Carol Ann's mother's recipe for chocolate chip cookies.

What I Like: Hartnell's descriptive writing puts us right into the 1950s with the characters. We can almost taste the hamburgers and malts and feel Carol Ann's misery as she has a high fever and bad dreams. We can imagine Carol Ann's pretty dress as she walks to church on Easter morning, and we laugh when we think of Pete in his clown/pirate/Peter Pan costume.

I also like the story. It was interesting to learn about Dr. Jonas Salk, who invented the polio vaccine, as well as the vaccine trials conducted across the country. Pete and Carol Ann feel like my own next-door neighbors, and I was so happy when Carol Ann found her courage and Pete learned to pray.

The book is well-written and feels more like a novel than a memoir, even though it is based on Hartnell's own experiences.

What I Dislike: Nothing

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: 8-12, although younger children may be interested as well.

Publisher Info: Hawk Prints: Hartnell House Publishing, 2010; ISBN: 978-1-936119-19-6; Paperback, $5.99

Buy it at Amazon.com for $4.99.

The book is also available at GP Goods.

Special Note: Carol Ann is afraid of shots, but overcomes her fear at the end of the book. If your own children share her fear, you may want to preview the book.

Christine Lindsay's Shadowed in Silk ~ Reviewed

2011-10-21T05:06:00.000-07:00

Shadowed in Silk

By Christine Lindsay

Published by White Rose Publishing

ISBN # 978-0976544494

276 Pages

Book Description: She was invisible to those who should have loved her.

After the Great War, Abby Fraser returns to India with her small son, where her husband is stationed with the British army. She has longed to go home to the land of glittering palaces and veiled women . . . but Nick has become a cruel stranger. It will take more than her American pluck to survive.

Major Geoff Richards, broken over the loss of so many of his men in the trenches of France, returns to his cavalry post in Amritsar. But his faith does little to help him understand the ruthlessness of his British peers toward the Indian people he loves. Nor does it explain how he is to protect Abby Fraser and her child from the husband who mistreats them.

Amid political unrest, inhospitable deserts, and Russian spies, tensions rise in India as the people cry for the freedom espoused by Gandhi. Caught between their own ideals and duty, Geoff and Abby stumble into sinister secrets . . . secrets that will thrust them out of the shadows and straight into the fire of revolution.

Review:

I was thrilled to get a review copy of Shadowed in Silk, Christine Lindsay’s compelling new epic novel. It reminded me of a few big screen movies like Australia, Jodie Foster in The King and I and Out of Africa. Christine has written a powerful and engaging novel that transported me to the streets of India; and mingling in it's diverse rich culture. I felt as if I had stepped off the ship with Abby and Geoff Richards and onto the dock, of Hotic India. Christine’s words paint vivid pictures that allow readers to experience the sites, sounds, scents and vibrant colors of India.

I liked how this author had the reader see Gandhi and experience the peaceful demonstrations he tried to put on. Christine captures this countries rich history, culture and customs, interwoven with a sweet love story. It’s a passionate story of a woman who loves Jesus and is committed to being His hands and feet to the children in the orphanage and the children of India at a high personal cost.

I liked the intensity and richness of her characters and their relationships with each other and their struggle with God, in doing the right thing. Abby is a woman who is determined to make her marriage work, even though it’s been a few years since she heard from her husband, Nick. She’s thankful that Geoff Richards stepped up and has said he’d make sure she and her son would get home safely, since her husband, Nick was no where to be found.

Geoff Richards is a wounded solider, who loves the Lord with all his heart, and feels the need to look after Abby and her young son. He can’t imagine a soldier that would treat his wife like this. Geoff is a protector in the story. Protector of Abby and her son and the men he served in the military. He stayed a respective distance from Abby. He realized that Abby hadn’t a clue about this culture. She was in more danger than she knows. Things changed since she last lived in India.

Not only does this author capture the essence of the country with it's intense humidity, spicy scents, and sounds which all add to the dimension of the novel, but she also penned a page-turning suspenseful drama, with engaging characters that kept me up late at night wondering what would happen next. I had to know about these characters, the spies, gun smuggling, pride and prejudice within the culture, it all fascinated me. It gave me a peek into the horrific slice of history she wrote about with the heart and soul of the people and of that time.

Days after reading this story, the characters and their flight will stay with you. I loved how she naturally wove the spiritual thread into the story-line. It was real, and believable. I highly recommend this beautifully written novel, against the backdrop of India in 1900’s. This novel reads as if a well-seasoned author with many books under her belt wrote it, not as the debut novel it is for Christine. It’s a brilliantly written and a emotionally compelling read! Can't wait to read what she writes next.

Reviewed by: Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

Heaven is for Real for Kids

2011-10-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

Millions of adult readers purchased the New York Times bestseller Heaven is for Real - the story of a three year old boy named Colton and his trip to heaven. And now there is a picture book version, Heaven is for Real for Kids. Written by Colton Burpo with input from Colton's parents, Todd and Sonja Burpo, the book features illustrations by Wilson Ong - who apparently had to get Colton's approval for every image, to ensure accuracy.

The picture book begins by explaining that one day Colton got sick and went to the hospital. There, he closed his eyes - and when he opened them, he was with Jesus. Then the book switches to "Colton's voice" - although parents may wish to note the story was not specifically dictated by Colton.

First, there's a description of Jesus: He really loves children, his eyes sparkle, and he has a bright smile. The accompanying picture shows Jesus with a gold crown, a purple sash, and wounds on his hands.

Colton then says Heaven has beautiful music and lots of colors, including rainbows "everywhere you look." The streets are gold and the gates are made of pearl. "There is no sun, but it never gets dark in heaven because the light of God is so bright." Everyone is happy.

Colton says that while in Heaven he met John the Baptist, King David, Samson, Peter, John, and Mary (Jesus' mother). He also met his grandfather (who died before Colton was born), and a sister who his mother miscarried. There are tons of children in heaven, and lots of angels. Michael and Gabriel "are as tall as giants" and Michael's sword "is covered in flames and is really powerful." Angels sing praises to God, "deliver messages," and "protect people on earth." The people in heaven are depicted with wings and halos, and in the notes following the story, Colton is quoted as saying, "You get to choose if you want to walk or fly." There are lots of animals in heaven, too - animals we'd recognize from earth. Jesus also has a large white horse with a rainbow colored mane.

Colton also sees God's throne. God the Father is "HUGE." Jesus sits to his right and the Holy Spirit is nearby. "A little chair was brought in for me, and I sat by God the Holy Spirit. I was praying for my dad because I knew he was really worried about me." Jesus finally says, "'Colton, you have to go back now. I am answering your dad's prayer.' Then I woke up, and was in my hospital bed again." The book ends:

"I will never, ever forget my trip to heaven...Jesus really, really loves children. And Jesus really, really loves you!"

What I Like: I can find nothing in this book that contradicts the Bible and I like that biblical quotes are included throughout.

What I Dislike: I felt cautious about introducing this book to my children. They were excited about it, to be sure. My 6 year old's eyes were as wide as saucers when I told her the little boy in the book says everything in the book is true. But I also didn't feel comfortable saying that this book presented an accurate picture of heaven. It may very well - but then again, it may not. There is plenty of information in it that's extra-biblical (that is, it includes details not included in the Bible). It's one thing for adults to read this account and use critical thinking and prayer to decide if it is accurate, but is a child looking at a picture book old enough to do this? In the end, I decided the book was a good launch pad for discussing what the Bible says about heaven, and how we might determine whether Colton really experienced heaven or not.

Overall Rating: This is a tough one to rate, but if you can accept that the account is an accurate one, I'd give it a "Very Good" rating.

Age Appeal: 4 to 8. Younger kids may like it, too, but I don't think they will have the maturity to discuss the accuracy of the account.

Publishing Info: Thomas Nelson; 2011; ISBN: 978-1400318704; hardback, 32 pgs., $14.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $10.19

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $8.99

Rene Gutteridge's Possession ~ Reviewed

2011-10-19T04:58:00.000-07:00

Possession

By Rene Gutteridge

Published by: Tyndale House Publishers

ISBN#978-1-4143-27434-0

303 Pages

Book Blurb:

In the aftermath of investigating the D.C. sniper case, police detective Vance Graegan is burned out on life and love. Hoping to save his marriage, he quits the force and moves his wife and son to the other side of the country. But when the movers decide to hold his belongings for ransom, Vance is determined to ensure that his family’s new beginning is not ruined. Soon, though, losing his possessions becomes the least of his problems as everything they are fighting for begins to unravel in the hands of Vance’s past. In an unforgettable climax, a little boy’s innocent faith brings a group of desperate people to their knees. What is at stake counts for everything, but nothing can prepare Vance for who is behind it.

Review:

I was thrilled to receive a review copy of this suspenseful tale. Rene delves into a scenario so many people are facing right now. So many have recently lost so much due to catastrophic situations beyond their control such as hurricanes, fire and flood. Rene had experienced the Oklahoma bombing, saw the devastation and watched how others dealt with tremendous loss. She wanted to explore the idea of losing everything, what that would mean and look like?

Vance, the main character learns quickly how short life really is as they try to track down a sniper in Washington D.C. Vance and the other officers desperately try to come up with a common denominator between the shootings in order to determine where this ghost sniper would strike next. After that ordeal, Vance suffers from Post-traumatic stress disorder.

The author became interested in PTSD after she experienced the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. It's similar to what vets experience but different. Rene does an amazing job of creating multi-layered characters that you instantly care about. I loved her first line, ‘Can you please state your full name?” She has the reader in court and Linda Greagan on the stand. I was swept into the story and was fascinated as to where Rene would take me next.

Vance reminded me of Bruce Willis in the Die Hard movie, who is smart, rough and tough but unlike Bruce who was saving the city, Vance had had enough of his job and wanted out. He was ready to start a new kind of life. He wanted to help his wife achieve her dream. Lindi’s dream was to own a Deli. It was something they could do together. His friends laughed at him but he was serious. He wasted enough years on the force risking his life for nothing. Now, was the time for his wife and son Conner.

Just when Vance thought things were going well, his wife quickly found a place to live, she had a lead on a perfect location for their Deli and they arrived in CA ahead of schedule.

Vance is in such a hurry to get this new life started and meet his family in CA he doesn’t take the time to read the fine print of his moving contract. All heck breaks loose when he gets to California to meet the movers. Moving is stressful on a good day but Vance’s experience is extreme.

His wife, Lindi, hears this from the moving worker, “Ma’am you are contractually obligated to pay us what you owe us.” That’s fine but this wasn’t the price they agreed on.

Vance is about to go ballistic when he hears this from his wife. What was happening? Vance learned over the years he had to departmentalize things; he couldn't get emotional because if he did he would miss something important. He would miss something he needed to solve the case. He was trained. Vance went into police mode to help him handle this crazy moving situation - just like he'd do with any case he was on.

On the gentler side of the story, I liked how their son, Conner, watched a televangelist on TV and got to know and accept Jesus has his personal savior. His parents weren’t excited about this event and hoped it would go away, when he grew up. They actually got scared when this behavior didn’t end. So, they took him to therapists to be observed. But the boy just kept being himself and would innocently share his relationship with Jesus and what it meant to him.

I enjoyed Conner and the beauty of a child’s love relationship and faith in Jesus is precious. I adored the part when Connor explained to his mom how to pray, “You have to always thank God first. That’s important. If you don’t be thankful, then you miss out on what God’s doing. You don’t see it… She wanted to hurry her son along in the prayer and Lindi says, “But let’s pretend we’re getting ready to be in a car wreck, and we need God’s help fast. Then what kind of prayer do you pray?”

“You don’t pray then, Mom, “Conner said. “You just trust that He’s there.” His mom saw great wisdom in her son’s eyes.

I loved the relational dynamic in this novel, the excitement, the honest spiritual thread and how Rene masterfully blends it all together. Amazing!

I highly recommend reading Possession, the book is a great escape into a world Rene creates, to make you laugh, sweep you up into a suspenseful drama and help you think about a few things along the way. Great combination! Thanks Rene for another book that had so much to offer at book club and is just a plain fun read.

Reviewed: Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

Passport to the World

2011-10-19T04:41:00.000-07:00

Passport to the World by Craig Froman is "Your A to Z Guided Language Tour." Packed with intercultural facts, this book offers a geographic journey through 26 language groups, from Armenian to Zulu.

Readers begin with a history of language. This two-page spread tells where our story begins (Genesis) and where our story will end (Revelation). The author explains how people went from one language to over 6800. Readers briefly travel from a plain in Shinar (the Middle East) to the Tower of Babel to current day. Biblical text of Genesis 11:1--9 is quoted. The author also referenced Genesis 9 and 10. Two maps reveal the seven continents and possible migration patterns of the people from Shinar. The ending? "One day God will gather His people together from every nation and language group." Revelation 7:9 is quoted in the text.

A "how to" introduction diagrams the rest of the book's format. Each of the language groups are given two pages filled with full-color photographs and information, arranged like a dozen sidebars. Photographs show that nation's money, people in traditional dress, people in current or everyday clothing, an interesting building or geographical site, and other specific national items. Meanwhile the text teaches readers:

Name of the language and where it is spoken
Fast Country Facts: This image consistently includes a map of the nation, the nation's flag, capitol, size, population, life expectancy, literacy rate, number of internet users, internet code and monetary unit.
Greeting From a Friend: This is a welcome letter introducing readers further to the country and the language. It typically includes some of the Country Facts written in paragraph form, but also expands upon those with the hidden meaning behind names and common religions practiced.
Country Proverb: a common saying among this language group
Did You Know? offers a handful of interesting facts about food, education, government, history, culture or even the land.
Speak the Language: Here readers learn how to say hello, goodbye, thank you and peace in this language. Phonetic spelling is provided.

Back matter provides even more learning opportunities. Country Facts at a Glance shows combines and ranks all the featured nations in regard to population, life expectancy, literacy, size and internet users. Name that Flag and Name that Country challenge readers to match nations with an image of their flag or the outline of the geographic territory (shape). Also provided: a removable passport and stickers.

Finally, Breaking the Language Barrier reminds us that we can help people, even if we don't speak their language. After quoting James 1:27, the author lists 10 organizations (complete with websites) that work around the world. Included are Children's Christian Hunger Network, Children's Hope Chest, The Water Project, UNICEF, Compassion International and World Vision, among others.

What I Like: Everything! This books is fantastic, not only for teaching global awareness through anthropology and geography, but also for raising mission-minded kids. I especially like that, while the United States is featured, it's not for English -- the author highlights Cherokee. This allowed my kids to learn something new in spite of their familiarity with our nation.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 9-12, but I think kids as young as 5 may enjoy it.

Publisher Info: Master Books 2010; ISBN: 0890515956; Hardback; 64 pages; $15.99

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $11.99!

OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $11.67.

Chris Fabry's and Gary Chapman's A Marriage Carol ~ Reviewed

2011-10-17T13:51:00.000-07:00

A Marriage Carol

By Chris Fabry & Gary Chapman

Published by Moody Publishers

ISBN-13: 978-0-8024-0264-6

Description:

Just one choice changes a life

On a snowy Christmas Eve, their anniversary, Marlee and Jacob take a treacherous drive to sign papers signaling the end of their marriage.

But a shortcut over an ice mountain pass brings Marlee on a collision course with her life. Visions of the past haunt; images of the present and future make her wonder if they have chosen the best course.

With a nod to Dickens and a heaping help of the truth from bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman, this surprising tale will take you through twists and turns and lead you in a journey into the power of snow.

Review:

A Marriage Carol is a delightful fantasy mixed with a generous heaping of truth. A story of trust, unconditional love, and the choice to let love grown again, and written in the style of A Christmas Carol, it's the perfect book to put on your Christmas giving list. Novel Journey and I highly recommend it.

Reviewed by: Ane Mulligan, editor

Novel Rocket

Ponder Learns to be Thankful

2011-10-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

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

Buy now at Amazon.com $13.99!

Will I See You Today? (Faith Basics for Kids)

2011-10-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

“Nature is a good starting place to show God’s handiwork as proof of his existence, but we should not stop there. Children need to know that God also reveals himself through his Word and most importantly through his Son, Jesus Christ.”

So states authors Crystal Bowman and Ava Pennington in a detailed note to parents and teachers at the end of the book Will I See You Today? The authors quote key verses from the Bible that supports this statement. Meanwhile, on a more basic level geared for kids, the idea of the reality of God permeates the rhyming verses of this Faith Basics for Kids picture book.

As the story unfolds, a young girl marvels in the beauty of the world around her, pondering whether or not she will see God that day. Though not stated, young readers will likely point out that God is revealed through nature.

Midway through the book, she opens her Bible and reads about Jesus. After briefly summing up his life on earth, she concludes, “I see the things that you have made/ the earth, the sky, and sea./ I know that you’re in Heaven,/ but you’re also here with me.”

The illustrations, done by Dan Dunham, are simple yet expressive, and filled with a mixture of bright primary and softer pastel colors. He depicts children exploring parks and meadows, the night sky, rivers and forests, and other play areas.

What I Like: The authors do a good job of keeping an even rhythm and natural-sounding rhyme, which I feel is important. That makes the words bounce off your tongue when you read the story aloud. The predictable pattern and beat will help younger readers successfully decode unfamiliar words. I also thought the note at the end added a great amount of insight and value to the story. Without it, I would still be entertained but slower to seize on the basic faith issue being addressed in the book.

What I Dislike: The shift from everyday encounters to life in Biblical times seemed somewhat abrupt to me. However, the pictures help with the transition.

Overall Rating: Excellent for those wishing to help their children understand the concept of God as an invisible spirit.

Age Appeal: 4 and up

Publisher Info: Standard Publishing, 2010; ISBN:978-0784729175; Hardback, 32 PGS., $8.99
Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $7.19
OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $8.99.

Special Info: Read other CCBR reviews of books by Crystal Bowman. Visit Crystal Bowman's website or Ava Pennington's website.

The Magic Bicycle: The Story of a Bicycle That Found a Boy

2011-10-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

In John Bibee's unique story, young John Kramer happens upon an old, red, Spirit Flyer bicycle with unusual powers. The Magic Bicycle is the first of eight books in the Spirit Flyer series. At first, John realizes the bike can jump farther and higher than most bikes. Soon, he is flying through the air, on various adventures. However, the bike seems to have a mind of its own, and will not fly if John is angry or intends to harm someone. It seems the bike may hold a clue to the mysterious death of John's parents, as well.

As John rides the bike more, he begins to encounter sinister cobras, with red eyes and dripping fangs. Sometimes, the cobras appear in skid marks, or funnel clouds. They always are a sign of evil, regardless of where John encounters them. The cobras seem to be connected to Barry Smedlow, the leader of a school gang intent on harassing John. The cobras are also connected to the Goliath Toy Corporation. Goliath's owner (Horace Grinsby) attempts to buy the Spirit Flyer from John. When John refuses, Grinsby enlists Barry in a sinister plot and ruins the annual bicycle contest.

Finally, with the help of his grandfather, John learns the true nature of the bicycle. It is actually an instrument of the three kings, designed to bring the rider closer to the King Prince and Kingson. John also learns more clues about his parents' disappearance. Before he can process this information, he must use the bicycle to rescue his aunt, uncle and cousins. He flies into the center of a cobra cloud, and rescues them from chains holding them powerless.

What I Like: I like the allegorical nature of the story. The bicycle is analogous to the Holy Spirit. It is sensitive to John's motivations and desires, and works best when he is doing what is right. Although John can make his own choices, the bicycle becomes sluggish and eventually refuses to move, if John is doing something he knows he shouldn't. The book would also work well to explain the biblical concept of "the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly high places."

I also like the sense of adventure in the story. John's town deals with strange tornadoes, unusual rainstorms, and even lightning fires. The bicycle's actions are unpredictable, and keep readers on their toes.

What I Dislike: Bibee tells too much, instead of showing readers, and letting them figure things out on their own.

Also, I bought the book for my son, but it got scarier, the more we read. The cobras and funnel clouds were creepy, and there were "daimones" that appeared dead, but were wearing masks belonging to the characters. Every person has at least one daimone assigned to him or her, whose purpose is to corrupt them, and keep them in chains.

The book ends on a cliff-hanger, with John having disappeared. This was frustrating, since it seems the evil chains were already starting to influence the family again, and we still don't know what really happened to John's parents.

Overall Rating: Good

Age Appeal: Publisher lists 8-12, but I would say a bit older, due to scary images and themes.

Publisher Info: InterVarsity Press, 1983; ISBN: 978-0-87784-348-1; Paperback, 197 pages, $12.00

Buy it Now at Christianbook.com for $9.49.

OR Buy it at Amazon.com for $10.20.

Mika in Portau Prince, Haiti: An Orphan's Story of Faith, Hope and Love

2011-10-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Author Brittany Volpei takes us into the world of orphans in Haiti with her story, Mika in Port au Prince, Haiti: An Orphan’s Story of Faith, Hope and Love. Mika is an orphan in Haiti who lives with her grandmother. But when Gran is unable to care for her, Mika goes to live with her aunt.

Mika hopes for a better life once she’s at Aunt Edna’s, but that is not to be. Her Aunt Edna sends her out into the streets to beg for money to buy food, not to feed Mika but to feed herself.

The story has a happy ending as Mika, the little girl that no one wants, eventually finds someone who loves her and cares for her. But, it’s not a happy story. It’s one that tugs at the heart strings as the story is based on the real lives of orphans in this impoverished country.

The illustrations by Neal Parrow are colorful and expressive, but they are also a bit dark, which reflects the darkness of Mika’s world.

What I Like: This story was written for a good cause, to bring the world’s attention to the plight of orphans in Haiti. In addition to the story, you will find information about the Gold Coast Orphan Alliance, which is an orphan care and adoption support ministry. You will also read about Child Hope International and the Manassero Family.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: 6-10.

Publisher Info: Little Ones of the Nations, 2011; ISBN: 9780615419527; Hardcover, $13.16.

Buy now at Amazon.com $10.00!

Special Info: This book is the first in a planned series of books by the publisher. They are working on another title for the series, Martin & Edmond: Two Brothers Journey through Haiti. Read more about the books at the publisher’s website.

Stephanie Grace Whitson's A Most Unsuitable Match ~ Reviewed

2011-10-14T05:32:00.000-07:00

A Most Unsuitable Match

By Stephanie Grace Whitson

Published by Bethany House

ISBN #” 978-0-7642-0881-2

334 Pages

Book Description:

An unlikely attraction occurs between two passengers on a steamboat journey up the Missouri River to Montana...

She is a self-centered young woman from a privileged family who fears the outdoors and avoids anything rustic. He is a preacher living under a sense of duty and obligation to love the unlovable people in the world. She isn't letting anything deter her from solving a family mystery that surfaced after her mother's death. He is on a mission to reach the rejects of society in the remote wilderness regions of Montana. Miss Fannie Rousseau and Reverend Samuel Beck are opposites in every way... except in how they both keep wondering if their paths will ever cross again.

Review:

Miss Fannie Rousseau’s world crumbles after her mother dies suddenly. Hannah, her loyal hand maiden whose been more of a mother to her than her real mom, tries to comfort Fannie. Minnitte, her dearest friend, is blind, engaged to be married, and is busy planning a wedding. Fannie didn’t know where to turn.

Miss Fannie seeks the council of Mr. Van de Kamp, who has run their family finances for years; only thing he can tell her is to get married. She needed help trying to navigate the financial mess her dad’s company was in and what to do from here. He offered no help at all. Getting married wasn’t an option.

Although Fannie was raised in privilege she would only marry for love. She desperately longed to be loved and accepted for Fannie the person - not the daughter of a wealthy man. Fannie discovers a box of old letters - her mother saved. She devours them all. Hannah learns of her find and is surprised. Even more so when Fannie tells her she is going to search for the person who wrote those letters. Fannie and Hannah embark on a dangerous and wild adventure. They encounter things they never dreamed possible! Neither had been on a steamboat or far from home for that matter. They meet Samuel who’s earning his way to Montana. Surprising to learn that Samuel is in search of a person as well. They both hoped to find answers on their journey. Little did they know their search would make them realize they needed each other more than they knew.

Fannie is headstrong and determined to accomplish her mission and so is Samuel. Others realize her lack of manual skills and fiestiness. Valey the innkeeper says, “I had to ask her if she even knew how to sweep a floor.” I think it made her a little mad....but then she said she thought she was smart enough to learn. He laughed “Tell her...she’s due for her broom lesson with Ave.”

I loved the natural spiritual thread and the way the author represented it, Fannie says to herself, “What if she actually sought out the words in the bible and let them rule her life? The idea was at once fascinating...and terrifying.... Did the bible really contain words of Life? For the first time. Fannie wished she had her own bible!” Love this.

I enjoyed Fanny and the authors well timed humor. I enjoyed this historical fiction novel. Also loved the cover - it was intriguing - I would never suspect the author could put together such a fascinating story with so many twists, turns and surprises. I enjoyed the minor characters as much as the main ones.

I enjoyed this authors' style, her endearing characters, and the many surmountable challenges they faced. They discovered that in their weakness God is strong. God will help us grow. He knows what we’re created to do. We just have to trust him and take the first step in the direction He’s called us to. The author talks about heart issues through a blind boy who says, “When you cannot see faces you listen better. Sometimes listening lets a person see in a better way.”

Stephanie mentions, “While working on this book, I've came to the end of myself yet again, and found Jesus waiting with outstretched arms and mine until we had the strength to take up the journey on our own two feet once again. And so... I offer you another story forged in the fires of my own life.” Loved this! I highly recommend this delightful novel!

Reviewed by: Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

James Rubart's The Chair ~ Reviewed

2011-10-13T05:13:00.000-07:00

The Chair

By James L Rubart

Published by B&H

ISBN #: 978-14336-7154-2

386 Pages

Book Description:

If someone gave you a chair and said it was made by Jesus Christ, would you believe them?

When an elderly lady shows up in Corin Roscoe's antiques store and gives him a chair she claims was crafted by Jesus, he scoffs. But when a young boy is miraculously healed two days after sitting in the chair, he stops laughing and starts wondering . . . could this chair heal the person whose life Corin destroyed twelve years ago?

As word spreads of the boy's healing, a mega-church pastor is determined to manipulate Corin into turning over the chair. And that mysterious woman who gave him the piece flits in and out of his life like a shadow, insinuating it's Corin’s destiny to guard the chair above everything else. But why?

Desperate, he turns to the one person he can trust, a college history professor who knows more about the legend of the chair than he'll reveal. Corin's life shatters as he searches for the truth about the artifact and the unexplained phenomena surrounding it. What’s more, he's not the only one willing do almost anything to possess the power seemingly connected to the chair.

Review:

I’m thankful to have received a review copy of a book that took me on an unexpected, suspenseful, and wild journey. James Rubart also did that in his book Rooms too. I see a pattern here! Grin! Loved it!

One day an old woman leaves a mysterious chair at Corin Roscoe’s antique shop. She doesn’t want to sell it but says this chair belongs to him and says he’s now the keeper of the chair. She doesn’t stay long. Says she’ll be in touch with Corin. Corin thinks this woman is bizarre and doesn’t think much about it, he’s just glad the old gal was gone!

He soon forgets about the chair until his next customer enters with a boy who has bad asthma! He sits in this old chair while Corin helps his mom. The next day Corin catches the news and discovers the little boy’s been healed and tells reporters it was after sitting a magical chair in the antique store! The boy says he felt warm and peaceful after sitting there a while! Next thing you know Dr’s confirmed the little boy is healed. Corin starts to wonder about this chair and how to get a hold of the old lady- he had questions to ask her. He runs into the woman again and she says the chair was made by Jesus. Could it be possible? Did it really have the power to heal?

He found passages in the bible such as Matthew 14:35-36 and Mark 5:27-29 where objects were used to heal and a woman was healed by just touching Jesus’s clothes. So maybe there was something to this “Healing Chair.”

The old woman warns Corin to keep the location of the chair a secret to protect himself and the chair. The woman disappears leaving him with more questions than before. He shares his situation with his closest pal - who says, “I think it would be cool if you had a chair made by Jesus, you could start a cult. Pretend it gives people visions if they sit on it! Hey! Make them pay to sit on it to get their visions and make a few bucks by building duplicates, put them in stores and up on your website and sell ‘em!”

If his friend was acting like this what would happen if the world found out? It would be unimaginable to think about the ramifications! How does he validate if the chair is real and keep it quiet at the same time? How can he hide the chair during this process? If the chair was real then what? His life was complicated enough, he didn’t need this!

I liked the suspenseful drama, action and the deep love relationships talked about in this novel. The author says, “...the greatest healing would never be physical, but a healing of the heart and our soul...the restoration of man’s relationship to God and of our relationships with each other.”

Jim also says in his note to readers! “All of us long to be restored physically, emotionally. But I believe the restoration we long for most is the healing of broken relationships!”

I loved this story of discovery and wonder as Corin tries to find out if the chair’s made by Jesus and has healing powers. James L. Rubart talks about the important things in life, love, family and relationships. What would you be willing to do to protect them, love them, be restored to them? I highly recommend this book to everyone. It’s a fun, fast-paced read that will make you think about love, life and your relationship with the master!! Doesn’t get any better than that!

Reviewed: Nora St.Laurent

The Book Club Network

The Family Illustrated Bible

2011-10-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for a Bible for family devotions? Want it to have lovely illustrations and lots of Bible stories not found in most children's Bibles? Then The Family Illustrated Bible may be worth looking at.

Previously published by a secular publisher as The Children's Bible, the first thing you're likely to notice about this large volume are the illustrations, created by a team of artists. Most are in full color, and highlight a realistic style. Many are full page and simply stunning. And from time to time, full color photographs of actual artifacts or biblical locations are included, too.

Next, you'll probably notice that this storybook Bible includes many stories rarely found in children's Bibles, like Sodom and Gomorrah, Rahab and the spies, the call of Gideon, Absalom's rebellion, Jesus' temptation, John the Baptist's death, Peter's denial, and the book of Revelation. To list every story this Bible covers would require several pages, but suffice it to say that compared to other storybook Bibles, it is quite complete.

What I Liked: The illustrations are lovely and a strong attraction for both my 6 year old and my nearly 3 year old. I also appreciate the inclusion of many Bible stories not found in most children's Bibles, and both my kids and I enjoyed many of the sections offering a bit of background on biblical history, artifacts, and locales.

What I Dislike: I'm not sure what age is really the target audience here. Many of the stories include graphic detail I personally don't want to read to my children. For example, in the story of Potiphar's wife, we read that she "tried to seduce him...[she] believed herself to be irresistible." I'd rather the author supply parents with an easier way to explain what all this means, as certain other children's Bibles do. Parents might also be surprised to find the story of how Jephthah killed his daughter for God. Yes, it's biblically accurate, but are you ready to explain this story to your child? And when I got to the story of Abaslom's rape of his sister, Tamar, I shad to stop reading aloud. The book reads: "When they were alone, he grabbed her. She struggled and tried to fend him off. Afterward, he sent her away in disgrace." Just how am I supposed to explain this to my children without explaining what rape is?

The stories seem more appropriate for teens - or maybe tweens. Yet I doubt many kids in this age group want a "childish" illustrated storybook Bible.

In addition to this, I notice some of the information about the history of the Bible is...well, inaccurate or misleading. For example, the Gospel of Thomas - not in the Bible - is included in the section on the Gospels, as if it is equal with them. In addition, the Bible stories themselves sometimes contain questionable phrasing. For example, at one point God "worries." In the story of the parting of the Red Sea, the Israelites cross over muddy ground, even though the Bible clearly says the ground was dry. Little things like that.

Overall Rating: Sadly, I can only give this book a Ho-Hum rating.

Age Appeal: The publisher doesn't offer a guideline, but I don't feel it's appropriate for kids younger than the tween years.

Publishing Info: New Leaf; 2011; ISBN: 978-0892217045; hardback, 356 pgs., $24.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $18.99

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $16.99

Nancy Rue's Unexpected Dismounts ~ Reviewed

2011-10-11T20:46:00.000-07:00

Unexpected Dismounts

By Nancy Rue

Published by David C. Cook

ISBN 978-1-4347-6492-8

Allison Chamberlain thought she was doing everything God required of her—but as her journey continues in the second book of The Reluctant Prophet series, she might have to let go of everything she loves to follow the call.

She was already taking care of five former prostitutes who were recovering from lives no tick-ridden mongrel dog should have to endure. And trying to adopt an orphan. And coping with feeling she didn't know she had in her.

But along the way, she experiences unexpected dismounts, as every Harley owner who risks the ride eventually does. A distant relative challenges the adoption, And influential businessman tries to block her ministry. Her beloved Chief is seriously injured. A piece of her past elbows its way in. As she picks herself up again and again, Allison realizes she just might have to give up everything she loves just to stay upright.

Review:

This is the series every young person, who seeks not to be a Christian in name only but the hands and feet of Jesus, needs to read. This is what the church needs to be. With an unpredictable plot, wonderful characters you want to meet in real life—well most of them anyway, Unexpected Dismounts is as terrific a read as The Reluctant Prophet. Novel Rocket and I give it our highest recommendation – it's a 5-star must read.

Reviewed by: Ane Mulligan, Sr. editor

Novel Rocket

The Barber Who Wanted to Pray

2011-10-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

If you want to encourage your kids to show interest in family devotions or you want to give them ideas on developing a prayer life, R.C. Sproul's The Barber Who Wanted to Pray could be just the thing for your family.

The story begins with Mr. McFarland, a father who sits down nightly with his children to read the Bible and pray. One of his younger children complains her prayers are too simple and "weak." How can she learn to pray as beautifully as her daddy? So her father tells his children a tale from history:

Once there was a skilled barber named Peter who spotted an outlaw in his shop. The barber knew the man was wanted dead or alive, but he said nothing while he finished shaving another customer. When the outlaw finally sat down for a shave, Peter thought about the fact that he could easily press too hard with his razor, killing the outlaw and earning a lavish reward. But he didn't...because the outlaw was his hero.

The outlaw is none other than Martin Luther, who had made the "whole church...better because the reformer had been brave enough to stand up for the truth of the gospel of Jesus, as no one had since the days of the apostles." He had "recovered the gospel from darkness." Which got him in trouble with the powers that be.

Instead of turning Luther in, Peter asks him how he can learn to better pray. In response, Luther writes a book for Peter, called A Simple Way to Pray. He suggests Peter and others begin by "praying through" the Lord's Prayer.

"Think about the first petition in the Lord's Prayer, 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed by your name.' When you think about these words, allow you mind and your heart to give careful attention to what these words say, and let them move you to deeper prayer....like this: 'O, God, it's hard for me to believe that You are really willing to be my heavenly Father. In our family, we have our father, whom we love, but You are the Father of all of us who put our faith in Jesus. It's because Jesus is Your Son and through Him You have adopted us into Your family, that we have the privilege to pray to You as our Father..."

Luther suggests the same process for "praying through" the Ten Commandments and the Apostle's Creed.

This story excites Mr. McFarland's children, and they can't wait to try it themselves.

The book ends with the full text of the Ten Commandments, the Lord's Prayer, and the Apostles' Creed.

What I Liked: First and foremost, T. Lively Fluharty's illustrations are absolutely gorgeous. Set in shadowy circumstances, the images evoke classic art. They, alone, may hold your child's attention. I also appreciate the ideas about prayer presented here.

What I Dislike: It's not easy to critique the well known minister and theologian R.C. Sproul, but a better writer could have made this book more interesting. As it is, the book is short on story and big on "how tos." I would have preferred either a full fledged nonfiction book or a picture book with more emphasis on the story. This book did not hold the attention of my 6 year old, who normally can enjoy almost any book.

Overall Rating: Despite this book's flaws, it does offer parents some good ideas about teaching their children about prayer. I give it a rating of Good for younger children and Very Good for older children.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 4 to 8, but I think it will better hold the interest of children 8 and up.

Publishing Info: Crossway; 2011; ISBN: 978-1433527036; hardback, 40 pgs., $17.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $12.23

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $5.99

Special Info: Read our reviews of other R.C. Sproul books here. Read our reviews of illustrator T. Lively Fluharty's books here. Read Martin Luther's (adult) book A Simple Way to Pray.