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

The Bear and the Piano – David Litchfield

The Bear and the Piano is a  beautiful picture book that includes themes of depth.  Young readers as well as those with more life experience will delight in reading about a very special bear that finds a piano in the woods and teaches himself how to skillfully play.  He ultimately leaves the forest in order to pursue his musical career, but he soon feels the call of those he holds most dear.

 

Raybot – Adam F. Watkins

Raybot is a lonely robot in search of a friend who “barks”.  Since Raybot is uncertain what a puppy looks like and only know that a puppy barks, each animal he meets on his journey is introduced via the noise he/she makes.  A terrific picture book that introduces animal sounds as well as teaching a great message about friendship.

Raybot Book Cover Raybot
Adam F. Watkins
Dogs
Price Stern Sloan
March 22, 2016
32

I Love You with All My Heart – Jane Chapman

I Love You with All My Heart is a very sweet tale that focuses on the unconditional love of a parent.  Engaging illustrations of Mama bear and her cub help bring the text to life.  This book is a great bedtime read for little ones.

I Love You with All My Heart Book Cover I Love You with All My Heart
Jane Chapman
Juvenile Fiction
Tiger Tales.
January 7, 2020
32

Ellie in Concert – Mike Wu

Mike Wu delights again with another Ellie story.  Ellie in Concert is a heartwarming tale that focuses on kindness and cooperation.  Although a perfect read aloud for younger students, this tale is a great option to use with older learners as well.

Ellie in Concert Book Cover Ellie in Concert
Mike Wu
Juvenile Fiction
Disney-Hyperion
April 4, 2017
40

Ellie – Mike Wu

Ellie is a delightful tale written and illustrated by a veteran Pixar animator Mike Wu.  In the book, Ellie the Elephant uses her creative talents to save the day when it appears the zoo may be closing.  Inspiring and entertaining…This one is a winner!

Ellie Book Cover Ellie
Mike Wu
Juvenile Fiction
Disney-Hyperion
May 12, 2015
40