REVIEW: God With Us: A Journey Home (A Children's Story Bible) by Jeremy Pierre

A unique children's Bible storybook, written by Jeremy Pierre and illustrated by Cassandra Clark. Unique because of the way Pierre uses the creative dialogue of two unnamed angels to cover the major stories in the Bible (one story/event in each chapter), taking us on a journey that highlights the presence of God in people's lives - past, present and future. The book does not avoid the sensitive subjects of sin and its consequences. It is meant to be real, and to give children an honest look at the overall theme of Scripture. It is meant to introduce children to the Gospel message, helping them understand how people were made to be in fellowship with God from the very beginning. It covers how we rebelled and were separated from God, how sin causes death and destruction, and how Jesus provided the only permanent way for us to be safely welcomed back into God's presence - not because of anything WE have done, but all because of His love for us. 

To be near to God

you cannot bring anything with you

to impress him

or to make you special in his eyes.

You are not special to God

because of your obedience to him.

You are special to God

because of his heart toward you.

~ p. 190 of God With Us

NOTE:  This book is not written is an easy-to-read, simplistic storybook format. Therefore, it may be a little challenging for children (especially younger children) to understand. However, parents/grandparents could still use it as a great tool to introduce the message of the Gospel (known as "the greatest story ever told") and use it to discuss God's presence in their lives. It is a book that could be read over and over, allowing children to learn and understand it more as they grow in their faith. 

SEE MORE INFO & FIND BUY LINKS HERE:

God With Us: A Journey Home

GIVEAWAY: One (1) physical hardback copy of God With Us. To enter, leave a comment on this blog post with your e-mail address, or on the post on our FACEBOOK PAGE, or send me a private E-MAIL with your contact information. Entries must be received by Saturday, November 20, 2021, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. A random drawing will be held and the winner will be contacted. You will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. Limited to USA residents only. 

Disclosure: Many thanks to Shepherd Press for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and not influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

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DEVOTIONAL REVIEW: "Roar Like A Lion" by Levi Lusko (for ages 6-10)

 

If my kids were still young, I would highly consider reading Roar Like A Lion with them. I probably would have used it for morning devotions before starting our school sessions, or maybe my husband would have led us in discussion at the dinner table. Either way, this 90-day devotional would have been a great addition to our library. It is geared for ages 6-10, so older kids/experienced readers could read it on their own, while less experienced readers can enjoy some one-on-one time with a grown-up, or the entire family can benefit with some read-aloud family devotion time. The lessons are good for all ages to learn from, but specifically cover topics for kids such as:    

• Facing fears about school and friendships
• Dealing with peer pressure and bullying
• Handling new challenges, disappointments, and grief
• Having courage to try something new 
• Understanding how we each fit into God's great story

As I read through some of the devotionals I noticed the colorful illustrations, and I like the way each two-page devotional is laid out. Each devotional includes a relevant Bible verse, an easy-to-understand devotional, and then a short focused prayer. As an added bonus, each devotional also includes a short section of either a "Did You Know" fact, or a "Get Ready to Roar" call to action; and, for an extra fun activity, kids can go through the book looking for anchors that are hidden in some of the illustrations. How many can you find? I challenge you to find out...

ORDER YOUR COPY HERE

GIVEAWAY: One (1) physical copy of Roar Like A Lion devotional.To enter, leave a comment on this blog post with your e-mail address, or on the post on our FACEBOOK PAGE, or send me a private E-MAIL with your contact information. Entries must be received by Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. A random drawing will be held and the winner will be contacted. You will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. USA residents only.

WINNER:  Linda T.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

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GET A FREE TRIAL of VOOKS: Storybooks Brought to Life

Videos + Books = VOOKS

VOOKS is a streaming library of ad-free, kid-safe, animated storybooks brought to life to help encourage the love of reading in children ages 2-8 (or those in that developmental age range). 

I always loved reading Curious George books when I was young, and also read them to my own kids. In fact, you might still find a few sitting on one of our bookshelves, and you might still find me taking a peek at one every now and then. (Heh heh). So, naturally, I chose a Curious George book for my first Vooks book to read/watch. 

When the narrator reads the story, each word is highlighted as it is being read, so the reader can follow along. At the same time, the images are brought to life with animated movements and with sounds. It's a whole new way to read and learn, and it's fun! 

I also enjoyed reading/watching "Gossie and Gertie," and "Who Said Moo!" and I'm sure I'll look at several more along with my adult, special needs daughter. She loves going to the library a couple times per month and choosing books like these to read, so I think she will enjoy this website. I will introduce it to her soon. 

When you sign up for a subscription, you will also find downloadable lesson plans for these books.The plans include activity ideas related to each book, vocabulary words, discussion questions, fact sheets to help aid in teaching/discussion, and several worksheet options. What a great resource to have available for teachers and involved parents! 

An example of one of the activities for "Curious George Says Thankyou."

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Try Vooks for yourself by enrolling FREE

for 30 DAYS!

Click HERE to sign up!

Then, if you decide to continue with your subscription, the cost is $4.99 per month, or $49.99 per year. 

FYI:  I did not see any faith-based books. However, there are many fun, family-oriented and educational books to choose from. Check it out FREE today! You have nothing to lose! 

Disclosure: Many thanks to Vooks for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

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REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Spirit of God Illustrated Bible

Let me introduce you to a new, illustrated story Bible, sweetly written by Doris Rikkers, and colorfully illustrated by Fernando Juarez. Before you start thinking, "Oh, its just another Bible storybook for children," let me tell you what's unique about this one.

The Spirit of God Illustrated Bible uses over 40 short stories, presented in a way that helps readers understand how God’s Spirit has been with us since the beginning of time and continues to be with us today.

The book starts out with the account of Creation, where it says in Genesis 1:2, "Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters." (NIV) From there, we are taken through many of the accounts in the Old Testament - some of which will be new stories to the children (and even the adults) who read them. Then, after the building of the temple in Jerusalem is completed, we are taken into the New Testament where we are taught about the life of Christ, and the birth of the church. 

In my opinion, this storybook is a unique way of presenting the Bible to children of all ages, while also being appealing (and educational) for adults.

For more information and to view a sampler, click the "landing page" here:

THE SPIRIT OF GOD ILLUSTRATED BIBLE 

GIVEAWAY:  I am happy to be able to give away a copy of this bible to one of my readers. If you are interested, you will need to do ONE of two things - either make a comment on this blog post and make sure I have a contact e-mail for you, or make a comment on the Facebook post on HHMRH MINISTRIES PAGE where I will contact you via private message if you are the winner. For all those who comment, a random drawing will be held on Saturday, September 22, 2018, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time.
 
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Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller/FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

A FREE E-book to Help Teach Children About Gratefulness

Materialism, selfishness, and feelings of entitlement are being instilled into our children through the culture we live in. It is important to teach them, while they are young, to be grateful for the blessings God has given them, and to be generous in sharing those blessings with others.

Compassion International has a way to help teach these important lessons with their new e-book, Goggles of Gratefulness. It is a sweetly illustrated, 20-page book about a little bird who had an ungrateful attitude. Then, she had a change of heart while visiting a needy family member.

Download it for FREE at this link:

FREE E-BOOK:  Goggles of Gratefulness 

CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW: "God's Great Love for You" by Rick Warren

God’s Great Love forYou, was written by New York Times bestselling author Rick Warren. It takes children on a little journey that helps them understand God’s love is with them wherever they go.

I love the adorable illustrations by Chris Saunders. They are cartoonish, yet still somewhat realistic-looking. Beautifully done and very appealing to young children.   

The book is a short read, with a few simple-to-understand words. Great to use while snuggling with a young child. The only thing I would personally change about it is where the book says God's great love for us is perfect "on good days, and bad days." I totally understand what this means, and I think most kids will understand it also. It helps kids realize God is with them and loves them no matter what kind of day they are having. But, for me personally, I try not to refer to any day as a "bad" day. To me, every day is a gift from God and, therefore, it is not a bad day. So, if I were to read this book to a young one, I would use the words "hard days" in place of "bad days." But, like I said, that is just a personal preference and not something to keep you from reading the book.

You can find it available for purchase at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christian Book, and Lifeway.

Disclosure:  Thanks to Propeller/FlyBy Promotions, I received a sample of this book in exchange for my honest review and post. All opinions expressed are my own. 

BOOK REVIEW: Wow! The Good News in Four Words

I have not read too many of the numerous children's books written by Dandi Daley Mackall.  But, the ones I have read, I have enjoyed, and I especially like the way they share Scripture with young children in simple ways. Her new book, Wow! The Good News in Four Words is no exception. It is a fun book that helps children (and adults) remember the Gospel message by the use of 4 little words.

• WOW - presents  the account of Creation and shares God's love for us. 
• UH-OH - discusses the fall of mankind and how we all sin.
• YES - talks about Jesus' birth, death and resurrection, and how we can be forgiven of our sins if we say yes to Jesus.
• AHHH - is about eternal life and the peace we can have with Jesus as a part of our lives.
• WOW (again) - encourages us to grow in our faith and share the Good News with others.

I really like the note to parents at the beginning of the book that explains these words, and also gives Scripture references to back them up. You can also find more references at the back of the book for those who wish to dig even deeper into the Gospel and God's plan for us. 

The only thing I don't care for is how busy some of the pages are with illustrations. The illustrations by Annabel Tempest are well-done, however, there is just a bit too much on each page for my liking. For some children, that might be great, but for me and my children, "less is more." We prefer few and simple illustrations that are a little less distracting. But, other than that, the book is good and I would recommend it. 

Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own. 

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Where Jesus Slept [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

Hardcover Book. Reading age:  4-7

When my kids were younger, I remember reading to them a funny little book called "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly" by Pam Adams. It started with the woman swallowing a fly. Then, with each page, it added something new. By the end of the book, there was one very long sentence about all the different things the woman had swallowed.

I immediately thought about that book when I first started reading WHERE JESUS SLEPT by Norma Lewis, because it is the same cumulative type of story.

This is the bed where Jesus slept. 
This is the straw that lined the bed where Jesus slept. 
This is the cow that shared the straw that lined the bed where Jesus slept.
and so on.....

It starts with Jesus sleeping sweetly in a manger, and ends with the wise men bringing Him gifts. (I personally believe the wise men did not come to the stable on the night Jesus was born, but that is a minor detail).

Children will love the repetition of this story, as well as the appealing illustrations. Enter below for a chance to win a copy to share with your kids and/or grandkids this Christmas season. (U.S.A. addresses only). 

Giveaway ends Saturday, November 5, 2016, at 8:00 p.m. CST.

Entry-Form

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of  Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Say & Pray Devotions by Diane Stortz [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

Hardbound, 40 pages
Age range:  4-8 years

I remember reading picture books to my kids when they were very young. They loved cuddling on the couch next to me, and looking at the pictures as I read aloud to them. Some books were about God and/or the Bible, some were just for fun, some were educational, and some were all of the above. This new book, SAY & PRAY DEVOTIONS, by Diane Stortz fits the description of "all of the above" because it:

1.  teaches about God's love and how He provides for us
2.  has colorful pictures with adorable illustrations
3.  and, is full of sight words that help young children identify the words that go with specific objects.

If you are already familiar with SAY & PRAY BIBLE, this new partner book features the same fun style of artwork and educational elements. I love the small size and sturdy pages, perfect for little hands to hold. And, I especially love the included Bible verses and simple prayers that can help young children grow in their faith. If my kids were still young enough for this book, it would be at the top of my list to read together with them.

Enter below for a chance to win a copy of this book to share with your children or grandchildren. Entries will be accepted until Saturday, October 29, 2016, at 8:00 p.m. CST. One entry per mailing address. Age 18 or older.

Entry-Form

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again.  Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

REVIEW: God Gave Us Thankful Hearts

One of my favorite seasons will be here soon. The leaves will be changing colors, we will be taking field trips to apple orchards, attending Fall Festivals, having campfires, making warm soups, wearing cozy sweatshirts, and doing lots of baking. Yes, the season is Fall (a.k.a. Autumn). The only problem with the Fall season is that the Winter season follows it. Winter is my least favorite season, and I have to try hard to find things to be thankful for during that time of the year.

Little Pup, a sweetly illustrated wolf cub, has the same dilemma in the book, GOD GAVE US THANKFUL HEARTS by Lisa Tawn Bergren. But, Mama Wolf has a conversation with Little Pup about how there's a reason for us to be thankful in every season. She and Papa wolf give him examples of things they are thankful for, and show Little Pup how God wants us to have a thankful heart.

There are no Scripture references included in this book, but there are definite Biblical concepts:

1.  At one point, Mama Wolf says, "The trick to having a thankful heart is thinking about the things that make us happy, rather than the things that don't." That is a concept based on Philippians 4:8 - Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

2.  Papa Wolf says, "God gave us thankful hearts so we could praise him, even when we don't catch fish."  (Hebrews 13:15 says, Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.)

3.  Mama Wolf says, "We can be thankful for how God shows us the way, even when it seems a little scary." (Isaiah 41:10 says, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.)

These are all good reminders for children, as well as adults. So, if you have younger children or grandchildren, this would be a great book to snuggle in and read along with them this Fall season (or any season) of the year.

NOTE:  I received this book from Blogging for Books for the purpose of this review. I have expressed my own opinion.

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: I Love You Just Because [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

Do you have a family with a mix of skin and/or hair colors? Do you have children who are as different from you as the night is from the day (whether they are biological or adopted)? Do you have a disabled child who often feels out of place because of his/her differences? If YES to any of these questions, then I LOVE YOU JUST BECAUSE, by Donna Keith, would be a good book for you to get. Basically, it is good for ANY family that has young children who simply need to know you love them for who they are.

This book is the 3rd in a series of board books inspired by the interracial family of the author's daughter. I love the adorable illustrations, and the Bible verses included on each page. Not only can  it help your little ones understand it is okay to look and/or act differently than the others in your family, it also teaches them what God's Word says.

Here's an example from one of the pages in this book:

"I know my brothers think that fish are quite a special treat.

To me, they're yucky," Panda says. "I want bamboo to eat!"

"Bamboo it is," says Mama, "for the panda we adore.

It's part of who you are and makes us love you even more."

Christ accepted you, so you should accept each other.

This will bring glory to God. ~ Romans 15:7

If you want to remind your kids you love them "just because you're you," this is a cute book to pick up and read with them as you snuggle on the couch.

Enter below for your chance to win a copy of this book. Entries accepted until Saturday, July 30, 2016, at 8:00 p.m. CST. One entry per mailing address. 

Entry-Form

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again.  Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Would A Worm Go On A Walk? [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

For ages:  4-7

“Would a worm go on a walk, if you could lead him down the street? Would he wear his tiny tennies, if he had four worm-sized feet? Would a worm go on a walk? NO! No matter how he tries, worms weren't made for walking, and they don't like EXERCISE.” 

These are the beginning lines of the humorous and imaginative picture book, Would A Worm Go On A Walk? by Hannah C. Hall. With creative poetry, and the adorable illustrations by Bill Bolton, this sweet book will teach young children that animals are uniquely created by a loving and wise God. None of them are the same, and they are not like people, but God created them to be just the way they are. He also created people, which is His most special creation, to be just the way WE are. He loves all of His creations and, as it says in Genesis 1:31, "God saw all that he had made, and it was very good."

This would be a fun addition to anyone's home library. I don't have young children anymore, but I read this book to my teen-aged special needs daughter, and she enjoyed it. She and I both smiled at the illustrations, and laughed at the silly lines. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Hannah C. Hall is the author of best-selling children’s books, including God Bless You and Good Night and God Bless Our Christmas, as well as an award-winning blog, HannahCHall.com. Hannah lives in Prairie Grove, AK with her husband, Josh, a worship pastor, and their four children.

For a chance to win a copy of this book, please fill out the entry form below. Entries will be accepted until Saturday, July 2, 2016 at 8:00 p.m. CST. One entry per mailing address. 

Entry-Form

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Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor, Propeller / FlyBy Promotions, in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

GIVEAWAY: The League & The Lantern by Brian Wells [CLOSED]

The League and the Lantern by Brian Wells is a great book for middle-school aged readers, especially boys! It is the first book in a new adventure series, and starts when a dangerous organization invades Jake Herndon’s seventh-grade sleepover at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, IL. This is a place my family is familiar with, so it was fun to read about the exhibits we have seen and experienced at the museum, such as the giant man-made tornado.

As the story progresses, Jake and his two new friends unravel a mystery dating back to the Civil War era, and discover an incredible secret about Jake’s family. They eventually leave Chicago and spend a lot of time in Springfield, IL, where they have adventures at the IL State Fairgrounds, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and Lincoln's Tomb. These are also locations our family has been to and are very familiar with. 

I have been reading the book aloud with my kids, and it has been hard for us to put it down. The funny scenes and the adventure have kept our interest. Plus, I love how it incorporates things that interest kids of middle school age, such as Captain America, the Avengers, Star Wars, The Princess Bride, Super Mario, and The Chronicles of Narnia. Besides that, the history based around the events of the Civil War is an added educational bonus.

This is not a faith-based book, but is definitely family friendly - a book your entire family would enjoy. You can download the first 6 chapters here to see what you think of it:  THE LEAGUE & THE LANTERN SNEAK PEAK

If you would like a chance to win a copy of this book, fill out the entry form below. Entries will be accepted until Saturday, May 14, 2016, at 8:00 p.m. CST. One entry per mailing address.

Entry-Form

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

REVIEW: "Jesus Inspires Me" Coloring Book

Do you have a child in your life who loves to draw, color, or design, and you want them to be able to do that while still learning about God? If so, then this is the book for you.

Jesus Inspires Me is a coloring and activity book featuring the familiar faces of Graham Blanchard’s “Knowing My God” board book series. The book is full of cute illustrations with lots of detail, and the characters encourage little artists to draw, color, reflect, solve, decorate, and imagine. The best part is how the pages include Scripture verses, so it is a good way for kids to create and have fun, while also learning God's Word.

One thing that would be fun is for kids to color one of the pages from the book, carefully tear it out, and either frame it to put on their bedroom wall or give it away to family or friends.What a neat way to teach kids about encouraging others with Scripture!

Here's an example of one of the coloring pages.

NOTE:  I was given a copy of this coloring book from the publisher for the purpose of this review.

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: The Legend of the Easter Robin [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

When robins build a nest on the window ledge at Tressa's Grandmother’s house, Tressa is thrilled, and also concerned. What would happen to the pretty blue eggs laid by the mother robin? In The Legend of the Easter Robin, Tressa watches the robins caring for their eggs, visits with Grandma and learns how to make bird eggs to hang outside on Easter morning, learns how our Heavenly Father cares for the birds, and learns about the legend of the Easter robin (an old Pennsylvania Dutch tale about how robins developed their red breast after one bird had an encounter with Jesus). It is a sweetly illustrated book, and would be an interesting and creative Easter story to share with your child, teaching them about compassion and faith.

For your chance to win a copy of this book, please use the entry form below. Entries will be accepted until Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 8:00 p.m. CST. Must be 18 or older to enter. One entry per mailing address. 

Entry-Form

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

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REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Jesus Today Devotions for Kids [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

Are you ready for my first review and giveaway of 2016?

Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids is a children's devotional book, for kids in the 6-10 age range. It's a hardcover book of 150 devotions, with the main theme being "Jesus is a Friend who is always by your side."

My honest opinion:  I love the idea, and the content. This is a unique devotional book that is written as though Jesus is speaking directly to the readers, assuring them He is in control of their lives. Plus, each devotion includes Scripture verses to go with it, which is very important for kids to read and know. The only thing I did not like about the book is the look of it. I guess it is meant to look like an old, worn book, and maybe the publisher has a reason for this that I don't know about, but to me (a detailed person who loves to see things neat and tidy), I just wasn't impressed with a book cover that looks old when it really isn't. However, I would not let the look of the book keep you from purchasing it. The content is good!

Take a peek inside at devotion #32:

When the book is open, the devotion is on the left side. The right side has Scripture verses to go along with the devotion. The verses included with devotion #32 are John 21:19, Psalm 23:1 & 4, and Psalm 18:28.

Enter below for your chance to win your own copy of this book. Entries will be accepted until Saturday, January 30, 2016, at 8:00 p.m. CST. Must be 18 or older to enter. One entry per mailing address.

Entry-Form

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

OFFICIAL WEBSITES FOR THE BOOK:

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REVIEW: Bash and the Chocolate Milk Cows

Hop inside the book, "Bash and the Chocolate Milk Cows" and you and your kids can take a trip to a country farm where Bash and his cousin, Beamer, think of fun ways (including pranks) to pass the time. While you are there, you can also follow Beamer as he learns more about Baptism and The Great Commission.

I used this book as a "read-a-loud" this Summer. I figured my 12-year-old son would enjoy it, since it is geared towards 8-12 year old boys. But, there is a lot of awkward dialogue at the beginning of the book that made it a bit hard for us to engage. My son and I sort of lost interest after the first couple of chapters, and gave up on reading it. But, don't refuse to read it just based on my initial opinion. As I scanned the rest of the book, it does appear to get more interesting. We just had other interests to pursue this Summer. I applaud the author for writing fun books for kids that also intertwines discussions on Christian beliefs.

Note:  I received this book free from Shelton Interactive for the purpose of this review. 

BOOK REVIEW: The Day is Waiting

When my children were younger, I remember reading them a book by Don Freeman called "Corduroy." It was a sweet book about a stuffed bear named Corduroy that we all enjoyed.

Recently, I found out about another book that includes illustrations by Don Freeman, but it was published after his death.  He had left behind a collection of sketches and drawings that had never been published, so his wife passed them along to be used in making another children's book. Linda Zuckerman, a close friend of Mr. Freeman, wrote the words to match the illustrations that were found. The final product is "The Day is Waiting."

It is a simple book, with one sentence or phrase on each page. It talks about getting out of the house to explore the world around us, enjoying the view, then realizing we always have home to return to.

The illustrations have different styles and don't really give the book a harmonizing feel at first glance. But, I understand the reasoning behind the assorted illustrations, so that makes them okay after all.

It is a nice little book to share with your young ones and discuss what "home" means to them. But, I can also see it as being a special graduation gift for your older child. When they are getting ready to see what is "out there" in our world for them to explore, they can take the book with them and it will be a reminder that they can always return home.


Disclosure:  I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review program. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own. 

REVIEW: Graham Blanchard's "Knowing My God Series Starter Set"

Graham Blanchard Publishing Company, located in Austin, Texas, has a new gift set available:  KNOWING MY GOD SERIES STARTER SET.

I was sent a set of these board books for review, and I REALLY like what I see. The set has 3 books, and each book is based on a different Bible passage. One thing I like about them is the colorful photographs - real world photos, not just cartoon illustrations - that support the text. They are beautifully done. But, what I like even more is the way these books can grow with your children.

1.  When your children are infants, they will be comforted by your voice as you read the text to them.

2.  Toddlers will also enjoy the colorful pictures and interacting with you as you name colors and imitate sounds.

3.  Older children will benefit from the meaning of each Scripture. Each portion of the verses are accompanied by an explanation that you can read to help explain God's Word to them. 

Each set is also wrapped in a colorful keepsake book band made of cardstock type material. On the inside of the book band are some thinking and drawing activities to help your older children reflect on what they have seen and heard. A nice touch to the set.

I recommend these books to anyone who has young children or grandchildren, and would like to have some meaningful interactions with them based on God's Word.

If you plan on purchasing a set, I have a special discount code you can use on the GRAHAM BLANCHARD WEBSITE through April 30, 2015. Just enter this code on the check-out page, and you will receive 15% off  your purchase!

DISCOUNT CODE:   HMRH15

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: The Berenstain Bears' Please & Thank You Book [Giveaway CLOSED]

Stan and Jan Berenstain introduced the first Berenstain Bear books in 1962. Their son, Mike, grew up watching his parents work together to share these lovable bears with the world. Stan and Jan have both passed away, but Mike is carrying on the work they began, sharing this special bear family with a new generation of young children. 

The book I received for review is "The Berenstain Bears’ Please & Thank You Book" for children ages 2 and up. It talks about the importance of manners through gentle reminders given to Brother, Sister, and Honey as they await their milk and cookies. 

I grew up reading picture books of The Berenstain Bears, and watching some of their cartoon specials. I've always enjoyed the funny things they have said and done and, as a mother now, I  appreciate the good values their books/stories express. This new book by Mike Berenstain is no exception. It is sure to be a helpful tool in teaching manners to your little ones. 

If you would like a chance to add it to your library, enter your name and e-mail address in the giveaway box below. The entries will end at 8:00 p.m. CST on Saturday, February 28, 2015.

Entry-Form

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”