When You Are Brave – Pat Zielow

When You a Brave explores finding courage within yourself.  It is a lovely book that includes beautiful illustrations and rich use of literary devices.  Although a picture book, it would make a terrific read aloud for older students.

When You Are Brave Book Cover When You Are Brave
Pat Zietlow Miller
Juvenile Fiction
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
March 5, 2019
40

I Will Be Fierce! – Bea Birdsong

Looking for a book to the kick-off the new school year?  I Will Be Fierce is a fun read that features a young lady who takes on the world as a brave explorer on an epic quest.  This a great book to set the tone for a new school year of discovery!

I Will Be Fierce Book Cover I Will Be Fierce
Bea Birdsong
Juvenile Fiction
Roaring Brook Press
April 23, 2019
40

Way Back Wednesday ~ Our Favorite Easter Book

This review was originally posted on April 1, 2015,

Reading this book has become a special Easter tradition for our family.

The Flowering Cross was a very quick favorite for our daughter.  It is a touching Easter story which focuses on the transformational power of God’s love.

Katie is a six year old little girl who truly loves God.  She displays her unconditional love and kindness to her neighbor Jack who is known throughout the neighborhood for being “mean”.  Soon her kindness not only brings out kindness and gentleness in Jack but also a willingness to accept God’s love.

The illustrations in this book are amazing.  They bring the story to life with the use of vivid color and detail.  They truly enhance the story for the reader.

Bible verses as well as faith imprints which include discussion starters are found throughout the book and provide a terrific addition to the story.  Additionally, directions on how to create a flowering cross are also included at the end of the story.  This was particularly appreciated by this reader since our daughter has become keenly interested in the idea of our family making a flowering cross!

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

The Flowering Cross Book Cover The Flowering Cross
Beth Ryan
Juvenile Fiction
Tommy Nelson
2010-03
32

Jesus Rose for Me – Jared Kennedy

Jesus Rose for Me is a terrific resource for sharing why we celebrate Easter with preschool and early elementary aged children.  Clear, easy to understand text is coupled with engaging illustrations.  The questions for further discussion found throughout the book are great for pause points to check for understanding and discussion.  This one is a winner!

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

Jesus Rose for Me Book Cover Jesus Rose for Me
Jared Kennedy
March 2, 2020
26

Way Back Wednesday ~ Mouse’s First Halloween – Lauren Thompson

 

This post was originally published on October 31, 2012.

Lauren Thompson is a great author.  Her Mouse series highlights the many firsts encountered by a little mouse.  Mouse’s First Halloween follows inquisitive little mouse through all sorts of Halloween experiences which in the end all prove not to be so scary after all.  This is a gentle Halloween tale that would make a great read aloud.

Mouse's First Halloween

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Way Back Wednesday – First Day of School

Today is our daughter’s first day of middle school, and the message of The Dot seemed the perfect way to start the year.  Looking forward to a great one!

The Dot is perhaps my favorite picture book of all time.  The Dot introduces us to Vashti a little girl who is not very eager about art class.  Her art teacher encourages her to “make her mark”.  With gentle guidance from her teacher, Vashti’s natural abilities as an artist as well as a teacher develop.  Ultimately, the simple text and accessible pictures pull the reader into Vashti’s story.  The profound impact of the words and actions of a teacher are highlighted and the power of enthusiasm and encouragement are reinforced.

The Dot Book Cover The Dot
Peter Reynolds
Juvenile Fiction
Candlewick Press
2003
32

Little Mouse’s Big Valentine – Thacher Hurd

This is my favorite Valentine’s Day book in our collection. Little Mouse has a very big valentine that he wants to share, but none of his friends are interested because it is just too big. As he ponders how to solve his dilemma, Little Mouse makes a new friend and together they come up with a solution that allows everyone to enjoy a Valentine’s Day treat.

Little Mouse's Big Valentine Book Cover Little Mouse's Big Valentine
Thacher Hurd
Juvenile Fiction
Harper Collins
December 20, 1991
32

Star Bright: A Christmas Story ~ Author – Alison McGhee and Illustrator – Peter H. Reynolds

A Christmas Story is a lovely book that tells the story of an angel who is uncertain what to bring to celebrate the birth of Baby Jesus.  Ultimately, she realizes a star that shines brightly is the perfect gift for a king.  The text and illustrations in this book work together beautifully to create a wonderful holiday read.  This book is not to be missed!

Star Bright Book Cover Star Bright
Alison McGhee
Juvenile Fiction
Atheneum Books for Young Readers
September 30, 2014
40

Prepare Him Room: Celebrating the Birth of Jesus Family Devotional – Marty Machowski

Prepare Him Room is a delightful guide to implementing gospel focused traditions for your family during Advent.  This lovely book includes weekly scripture readings as well as Christmas activities and songs.  It would be a wonderful early Christmas gift for a family with young children.

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

Prepare Him Room Book Cover Prepare Him Room
Marty Machowski
Religion
September 30, 2014
82

A Better December: Proverbs to Brighten December – Steven Estes

This small book shares true stories accompanied by pen and ink illustrations.  It is an encouraging reminder how we can each have a a more purposeful and peaceful Christmas season.  The author uses the Book of Proverbs as a guide.

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

A Better December Book Cover A Better December
Steven Estes
Religion
October 1, 2013
83