One Spring Lamb written and illustrated by Anne Vittur Kennedy

About the book: Follow little spring lamb’s adventures as Easter draws near!  Your little one will love counting God’s many springtime blessings.

Review:  A very nice “counting” book for your toddler.  Even though it references Easter, this book can be read year around.  I adore the cover – I know, I know…that may seem a little dramatic, but the cover is beautiful.  A picture of a sweet little lamb and glittering flowers just grabs your attention.  The 3D effect on the front is a great sensory item for little one’s hands.  The book’s pages are thick cardboard and easy for little hands to turn the pages.  The illustrations are beautiful as well  -- simple, but very colorful and enjoyable to look at.

“One Spring Lamb” is so easy to understand for toddlers.  The way the author has written in a rhyme style that is one of my favorite for small children.  Each page is full of items to talk about with your little one and #7 is probably my favorite page because of the “hide and seek”.  Children love looking for things while reading and the author accomplished this through both her writing and illustrations.

No doubt that you may have several “counting” books already on your toddler’s book shelf, but “One Spring Lamb”  is a must add to your collection. (rev. P.Howard)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by the BookLook Blogger Review program on behalf of the publisher and author. Opinions are those of the reviewer.

Win or Lose, I Love You! By: Lysa TerKeurst Illustrated By: Jana Christy

Win or Lose – I Love You! By Lysa TerKeurst (illustrated by Jana Christy)

ISBN-13: 9780529104007

About the book:  Win or lose, one thing that’s true…No matter what, I love you! Competition can bring out the worst in us, but it can also be an opportunity to learn impactful life lessons.  That’s why it’s so important for kids to understand how to handle winning and losing?  Join Lulu and Max as they help Bear-Bear, Goosey, Coyote, and the rest of their animal friends in the Field Day contests to determine who will be the leader of Lulu’s forest.  But as the animals soon find out, not everyone can win.  Sore losers, unkind winners, flaring tempers, and a few tears are taking the fun straight out of Field Day!

Review:  The thing I liked most about this book is the little phrase – “Win or Lose, I Love You!”  The illustrations are very nice and I do like the look of water color to the pages.  The topic of the book is a much needed one.  Teaching our children that it’s not about winning or losing, but that it’s about how our attitude shows itself in winning or losing is something that every parent, grandparent, or educator has a responsibility to do.  We have to look for the opportunity and this book can help in that area.  If instilled in our children when they are young, it definitely makes it easier to address as they grow.  I appreciate the verses at the back of the book that will certainly help in teaching what God says about winning and losing and how we are to react.  In my opinion, this book is geared toward 1st grade and up.  While we need to be teaching our children how to win or lose gracefully long before 1st grade, the book is too long for most toddlers to sit through.

Again, my favorite part of this book is….  “You may not win, but you must try. Sometimes you’ll lose, but there’s no need to cry. Win or lose, one thing that’s true..No matter what, I love you!”

DISCLOSURE: We received a complimentary copy from BookLook to facilitate this review. Opinions are those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

Thank You,Lord,for Everything by P.J. Lyons – illustrated by Tim Warnes

Love surrounds you beauty, too.

Notice how God blesses you!

Clap your hands, shout and sing:

“Thank you, Lord, for everything!”

Thank You, Lord, For Everything is a sweet and gentle rhyme – perfect for bedtime, quiet time, and anytime in between

Review:  What a wonderful little book!!  With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, this short story is a pleasant reminder that we should be grateful, thankful, for the very simple things of life.  The sing-song, rhyming tempo of the book is one of my favorite styles for children.  I love the way each page ends with the title of the book and encourages you to be dramatic and have fun while reading to your children.

The illustrations are charming and  with a very soft water-color effect.  The characters are drawn with such sweetness and are entirely appropriate for children of all ages.  The construction of the book is thick cardboard and should hold up to many readings.

At this time of year, the holiday Thanksgiving seems to disappear in the onslaught of Christmas commercialism.   This sweet little book is a gentle reminder that we absolutely do have much to be thankful for and it is our responsibility to teach and show our children that it’s more of who you have in your life than what.  “Thank You, Lord, For Everything” would make a great addition to your children’s library! (rev. P.Howard)

DISCLOSURE: We received this book from BookLook book review program to facilitate this review. Opinions are those of the reviewer only. We received no compensation to review this book.

Say & Pray Bible: First Words, Stories, and Prayers by Diane Stortz; Illustrated by Sarah Ward

About the book: Say and pray the Bible with your little Ones!  Curl up together and experience the Bible in a fresh, new way.  Young children will enjoy pointing to and naming objects on each page for early learning.  Most important, they’ll discover favorite, age-appropriate Bible stories, with Scripture verses and short prayers that also hide God’s Word in young hearts.

Review:   “Say & Pray”  is a very cute beginner’s Bible for toddlers.  It has a total of 20 stories in the book:  10 from the Old Testament and 10 from the New Testament.  All of the stories should be familiar to anyone who has spent much time in Sunday School or youth group – Creation, Noah & the Ark, Joseph & his coat of many colors are just a few from the Old Testament.  Some from the New Testament are the Birth of Jesus, the Good Samaritan, and Jesus’ Resurrection.

The illustrations are nice and child-like.  I like the “word balloons” with single words describing animals, objects, & people.  This point-and-say method is very easy for a toddler to grasp.  The actual construction of the book is quite nice as well.  The pages are thick cardboard and easy to turn.

“Say & Pray Bible” would make a nice gift for new parents and great introduction to Bible for toddlers. (rev. P.Howard)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by the BookLook Blogger Review Program on behalf of the publisher, Thomas Nelson. Opinions are those of the reviewer and no compensation was received for this review.

Thankful by Eileen Spinelli; Illustrated by Archie Preston

About the book:  “Thankful” – Like the gardener, thankful for every green sprout, and the fireman for putting the fire out.  There are everyday blessings , you don’t need to look far, to know at a glance how special you are.  Beloved children’s author Eileen Spinelli and illustrator Archie Preston inspire children of all ages with “Thankful” a whimsical picture book that celebrates the everyday blessings we find in our lives.
 
Review:  I really like this book.  It is described as whimsical and that is exactly right. The whole book is written like a rhyme, which I find very enjoyable when reading to children.  As I was reading it, my granddaughter immediately came to mind and how she “pretends play.”  Just as a child’s imagination jumps from here to there, this book encourages that same imagination – From a waitress being thankful “for comfortable shoes” to a “local reporter for interesting news;”  then to “the chef is thankful for plates licked clean; the tailor, for her sewing machine.”   Even though this book can and does encourage imagination, it does an even better job of helping us teach our children to be thankful!  Being thankful is absolutely something that has to be taught and must begin at the earliest age possible. 

The illustrations of this book are beautiful.  I like the simplicity and the water color effect on all the pages.  The illustrator has chosen to center the author’s wonderful words around a family – father, mother, brother, and sister.   This is great because, again, teaching someone to be thankful begins at home!

“Thankful” is a wonderful book to have in your children’s library and one that you easily can read daily to your children!  I will be adding this to my collection!! (rev. P.Howard)


DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by the BookLook Blogger Review Program on behalf of Zondervan to facilitate this review. Opinions as those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

The Berenstain Bears God Bless Our Country By Mike Berenstain

About the book: The Bear family and their Bear Country neighbors celebrate the Fourth of July with a big parade. But not before the Bear cubs get a lesson about the blessings of freedom for their country. Features 12 full-color stickers.

Review: For the small price of $4.99, you can acquire this republished Berenstain Bears book that has been beloved for years. God Bless Our Country is illustrated in the endearing Berenstain tradition that will charm the current youngsters just as it did many years ago.

The Fourth of July (Independence Day) celebration is approaching and the Berenstain Bears are making preparation to participate in their town's parade and other activities. They are learning about the history of the United States and how faith was a cornerstone in the building of this country.

I just love Berenstain Bears and this reprinting gives wonderful opportunities for children and parents to enjoy the adventures of these lovable bears.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by BookLook Blogger Review Program on behalf of ZonderKidz to facilitate this review. Opinions are those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

Henry Hodges Needs a Friend by Andy Andrews & illustrated by Colleen Madden

About the book: From the author ofThe Kid Who Changed the World, this hilarious rhyming story, complete with charming art, offers comfort to children who often feel left out or are in need of a good friend.

At some point, almost every child struggles with feeling like they don't fit in or are left out just like Henry Hodges. Henry is a lonely little boy on a lonely little street who longs for a friend. One day, his mother and father take him to a pet rescue shelter and his lonely world is changed! Told in a playful rhyme with adorable illustrations, this book will be a favorite among children and parents who love dogs and, ultimately, will comfort and encourage children who struggle with feeling accepted and finding friends.

Review: I think the illustrations of Henry Hodges Needs a Friend a "spot on" bringing vivid coloring, whimsical expressions, and child-friendly creatures to enhance the story. Written in rhyme, Henry's search for a special friend explores Henry's imagination of just what a "One-of-a-kind" friend (think pet) would be like.

A figure-skating hippo

Would really be nice.

But he'd eat way too much

And break through the ice.

Henry and his parents go to a shelter and find a cute dog to be Henry's friend. The end of the book reveals that a one-of-a-kind friend is "YOU" and that is what your friends need. The book teaches that each friend is unique and you need to be a friend to someone.

I enjoyed this children's book think that families that enjoy pets would find it a treat to read.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by the BookLook Blogging program on behalf of the publisher Tommy Nelson a Division of Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Lucado Treasury of Bedtime Prayers – Prayers for bedtime and every time of day! By Max & Denalyn Lucado; illustrated by Lisa Alderson

About the book: Parents can do so many things for their children.  We can tie their shoes so they don’t trip and fall.  We can make sure they have warm clothes and full tummies.  We can even help them tackle some of the mysteries of higher math.  But the most important thing we can do is teach them to pray.  Childhood is the best window for learning prayer.  We can teach them to talk to God about everything, anything, anytime, and all the time.  We can’t promise an easy life, but we can equip them to face life.  We can’t be with them always, but God can.

Review: I absolutely love this book!!  But I’m also a fan of Max Lucado.  The simplicity of the book and the beautiful illustrations only add to the enjoyment.  Lucado and his wife Denalyn have put together a book of timeless poems & prayers, plus added several of their own original prayers.  At the beginning of the book, the Lucados have a “Dear Parents” letter that encourages us to teach our children to pray, to forgive and receive forgiveness, to have hope and that God truly cares about them.
 From there the book is divided into several categories:  “Good Morning, God,” “God You are Great!”, “My Family and Friends,” and ending with “Good Night, God.”

A couple of poems/prayers:

“Tell God all about your messes.  Your sins.  Your mistakes.  He can fix them – and He won’t even need a Band-Aid.” By Max & Denalyn 

“Dear Lord…Please give me what I ask, dear Lord, if you’d be glad about it.  But if you think it’s not for me, Please help me do without it.”  -- Anonymous

“Treasury of Bedtime Prayers” also includes several scripture references.  Most of the references are quite familiar and should most definitely be ones we are teaching our children to memorize.  This book is not only for children, but for anyone who wishes to be reminded of God’s goodness and how much He cares for His children.  I plan to use some of them in notes that I will be sending out to family and friends.

Again, this is a wonderful book and one that I believe everyone should have in their library!  It is never too early to teach our children about prayer. (reviewed by P.Howard)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by BookLook Blogger Review Program on behalf of the publisher and author to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are those of the reviewer. No compensation was received.

Two Renegade Realms by Donita K. Paul

Review: This book is a fantasy and is about several Realm Walkers. A Realm Walker has the ability to travel through portals to other realms. It is discovered that there is going to be an attack by two renegade relams. Cantor and his constant, a dragon names Bridger, along with Bixby and Dukemee, two other Realm Walkers, set out to look for Chomountain, who will be able to help them stop the attack.  When they find Chomountain, he doesn't know who he is, due to a spell that has been placed on him.  The others are amazed at his powers once he realizes that he is Chomountain.  The group splits up to find more dragons to help in their quest.  They find the dragons have been captured and drugged to keep them from escaping.  Once they free the dragons, they travel on to find more Realm Walkers.   They discover that there are many other realm walkers who have been captured, as well.  Once they are all freed, they set out to figure out how to stop the invasion. Chomountain is able to look ahead in time and see how they are invaded and is able to figure out the best way to stop the invasion.  The Realm Walkers and dragons prepare to attack the invaders before they land and are able to prevent an attack from ever taking place.

There was some back story at the beginning and it was not always easy to make sense of it.  There were some enjoyable parts to the story and seeing how the Realm Walkers cared for each other was nice.  I would recommend this book to older teens/young adults who are interested in fantasy. (reviewed by T.Lyles)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of this book was received from the publisher.

The Daring Heart of David Livingstone – Exile, African Slavery, and the Publicity Stunt that Saved Millions by Jay Milbrandt

About the book: In the century since his death, David Livingstone's life has been recast, rewoven, and retold as the rugged adventure of a patriotic scientist on the dangerous road to discovery. He has been alternately painted as a real-life Indiana Jones and a one-man Lewis and Clark. Livingstone has been secularized, lionized . . . and misunderstood.

Most consistently overlooked (or ignored) in accounts of Livingstone's life is the contribution he made to the abolition of the slave trade in Africa--and the Christian faith that drove his efforts. The Daring Heart of David Livingstone removes the veil that history has cast over the faith of a valiant Christian believer.

The quest for the source of the Nile will forever be associated with David Livingstone, and his adventures in the name of scientific ambition certainly make for a compelling story. Equally compelling, however, and far more important, is the story of African liberty, freedom, and redemption that this flawed foreigner left in the wake of his death.

Here, finally, is David Livingstone's complete story: the story of a man of great faith, fallen in his humanity but driven by his belief in the sanctity of God's creation. Though few could ever match his wonder at the natural world, it was his horror at human enslavement that propelled him in his most courageous, longsuffering work.

Review: I must quickly confess that prior to reading this book, I knew very little about the life of David Livingstone.  What I had heard through Sunday School was all that I knew – David Livingstone was a great missionary to Africa, preaching and sharing God’s Word and the plan of salvation.   I had no idea he was considered a great explorer and scientist.  I knew little to nothing of his desire and goal to abolish slave trading in and out of Africa and that the great expedition to discover the source of the mighty Nile River was a means to an end for Livingstone – the abolition of slavery.  I am embarrassed at my ignorance about this great man, but I can definitely say that it is not as great now as before.

This book has been an eye-opener for me and a good teacher.

 “The Daring Heart of David Livingstone” begins with Livingstone’s return to London at the end of 1856 and culminates with his death May 1, 1873, and the signing of a treaty for complete abolition of slave trading in Africa in August 1874.  The book takes us through an almost 20-year journey by Livingstone.  Along the way, we experience Livingstone’s success and failures.  We see him as man with faults, but never wavering from his desired goal – a goal he did not see achieved during his lifetime.  

In the author’s note at the front of the book:  “Livingstone would never know the success of his grand publicity stunt.  A mere thirty-six days after passing away deep in the heart of Africa, legislation in Zanzibar would make slavery illegal in East Africa.  He passed away believing he failed in almost everything in life.  For abolition, he sacrificed his career, his reputation, his fortune, his wife, his children, and eventually, his own life.”

“The Daring Heart of David Livingstone” is a good book and one I recommend.  I will be reading more about David Livingstone.  Thank you to the author Jay Milbrandt.

Jay Milbrandt, author,  is a professor at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is a Senior Fellow in Global Justice with the Nootbaar Institute at Pepperdine University School of Law where he formerly directed the Global Justice Program. He travels throughout the world as a human rights lawyer, manages global initiatives in Africa and Southeast Asia, and consults with organizations engaged in human rights and legal development efforts. JayMilbrandt.com

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by BookLook Blogging program on behalf of the publisher and author to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

The Making of a Man: How men and boys honor God and live with integrity by Tim Brown and James Lund

ISBN-13: 9780529113047
Thomas Nelson Publisher

Review:  The Making of a Man: How men and boys honor God and live with integrity is written by Tim Brown and James Lund.  Tim Brown is a Heisman Trophy winner and NFL player mostly with the Raiders.  In his book, he details his own walk of faith in his life and how God directed his steps as a Christian athlete.  He admits his failures, but shows how a righteous man keeps getting up and moving forward.  

His main failures were in the area of intimate relationships with women, so this book would be best for older teenage boys who will read with maturity.  

Through this book, Tim Brown reveals how all men can make the choices needed in life to live a life that is pleasing to God and enjoy the blessings and successes that come with that.  The author also makes a strong case for family and especially for fathers being what they ought to for their children.  

This book is not a theological book at all, but I believe is meant to be a very practical book for men to encourage them to live for the Lord and let everything else take care of itself.  Each chapter deals with a different aspect of manhood where the author gives an analogy from his own life and finishes by showing what God's word has to say about it.  

I enjoyed reading this book about a man that I knew very little about.  It would be good if I could meet him and shake his hand. (Reviewed by B.Lyons, Teacher)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by the BookLook Blogger Review Program for the purpose of this review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.