Ruby – Cynthia Bond

Ruby presents a powerful story focusing on the power of love.  Bond is a talented writer and her writing style is rather lyrical which is especially striking in juxtaposition to her subject matter.  Although an interesting story, I found the book a challenge to read due to the amount of sexual violence.  I truly felt emotionally exhausted and at times simply had to stop reading.

While this complimentary book was provided for review by Random House Publishing, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.

Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Artists: Van Gogh – Mike Venezia

Mike Venezia has a number of different educational series that are exceptional.  Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Artists is one of our favorites.  Each book features a different artist and provides a great deal of information about not only the artist but the time period that he/she lived.  The illustrations are fun, and the books are highly engaging.  Venezia also has this series in a DVD format which we have gotten from the library.  The DVDs are very well done and include a surprising amount of humor.

Brave Girls: Better Than Perfect ~ A 90-Day Devotional for Brave Girls Like You! – Jennifer Gerelds

Brave Girls: Better Than Perfect ~ A 90-Day Devotional for Brave Girls Like You! is an awesome devotional book for girls 7-10.  The one page devotions are filled with great insights, and I really liked the questions and activities coupled with each reading as a way of reinforcing the important lessons presented.  This one is a real winner!

While this complimentary book was provided for review by Harper Collins Publishing, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.

Easter Stories: Classic Tales for the Holy Season – C.S. Lewis, Leo Tolstoy, Oscar Wilde, and Others

As you prepare your heart and mind for Easter,  Easter Stories: Classic Tales for the Holy Season is a wonderful companion.  This collection is filled with family friendly short stories that focus on the true meaning of Easter.

While this complimentary book was provided for review by Handlebar Marketing, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.

How Many Times Do I Have to Tell You? What God Wants Us to Hear When We Talk to Our Kids – Rachael Carman

Rachael Carman provides an insightful and thought-provoking book organized around phrases commonly used by parents.  In each section she encourages the reader to think about not only how using the phrase impacts a child, but what God may be trying to teach you through the behavior of your children.  After each phrase-based entry there is a moment of introspection section which provides the reader with a few prompts/questions to spur further thought.

While this complimentary book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity Group, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.

 

Case for Grace for Kids – Lee Strobel

Case for Grace for Kids does a great job of explaining God’s gift of grace.  The first chapter provides an explanation with the remaining chapters in the book providing real life examples of people who have had their lives changes as a result of God’s love and grace.  Although this book could be read independently by a child, I really think this book lends itself to further discussion with a parent or in a small group Bible study.  There are even some questions at that the end of each chapter which could start the discussion.

While this complimentary book was provided for review by Harper Collins Publishing, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.

Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe – Max Lucado

Although I am a big Max Lucado fan, I was a bit skeptical about his first fictional work.  I was afraid it might be a bit hokey or heavy handed.  I was pleasantly surprised.  Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe was a fun and inspirational read.  You really cannot help but cheer on the characters.

While this complimentary book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity Group, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.