Tag Archives: children’s storybooks

First Line Friday — Your Spark: Celebrating The Brightest Part of You!

6 Dec

 

Happy Friday! Today I am featuring a kid’s book that would be perfect for giving this Christmas season — Your Spark: Celebrating The Brightest Part of You! by Lisa Leonard. I have already shared this one with some favorites 😉 ! And if you are looking for some more great books to put under the tree, check out Zonderkidz Gift Giving Guide.

For more fun first lines, visit Hoarding Books!

We all have a light inside us that shines brightly and makes us who we are. Artists and athletes, dancers and dreamers, jokers and gymnasts … I want to see you shine in your own unique way. Come along with me as we celebrate your spark.

Did you know that God gave you your very own spark? It’s true! And no one else in the whole wide world has a spark like yours! Your spark makes your eyes twinkle and your mouth smile. It makes your feet stomp and your voice loud. It makes you excited and curious to learn new things. It lights you up from the inside, and it fills you with wonder and dreams.

Your spark does all that and more. And author Lisa Leonard offers this picture book in celebration of you … and your spark! Lisa pours her heart into this book, bringing Your Spark to life with inspiring text and free-spirited illustrations. More than anything, Lisa wants you and children everywhere to know:

Inside your heart there is a spark.
It shines bright and true, and it’s what makes you, YOU!

 

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Children’s Corner — Exciting Christmas Books from Zonderkidz

4 Dec

Looking for some books to put under the tree for your favorite child? Then you are in luck! Zonderkidz has you covered. Check out some of the books available below. And if those aren’t enough, they have a handy gift giving guide too!

 

Board Books

Christmas Cookie Day!, written by Tara Knudson and illustrated by Pauline Stewart, celebrates the beloved tradition of making Christmas treats and even features a special Christmas cookie recipe for you and your child to create. The bright illustrations by Pauline Siewert and sweet, rhyming text by Tara Knudson are sure to capture the wonder of young readers and parents alike. Perfect for building new memories, this board book has a beautiful, glittery cover.

My Christmas Story Tree, written by bestselling author Mary Manz Simon and illustrated by Gavin Scott, is a board book that sparkles with glitter and foil and leads little ones through the tradition of decorating the Christmas tree. Follow along to add the angel, ornaments, candy canes, lights, and finally place the star on the top of the tree while learning the story of the very first Christmas.

 

Storybooks

In Mouse’s Christmas Gift, written by Mindy Baker and illustrated by Dow Phumiruk, one tiny church mouse must find a way to bring Christmas spirit to his little town when Parson gets sick and the usual Christmas Eve service is cancelled. Mouse never gives up hope as he prepares the nativity set and lights a small candle in the window to signal the villagers. Mouse’s small act of faith sparks a chain reaction of hope and love, demonstrating that even the smallest creature can make a big difference. This adorable book, with a cover adorned with foil and glitter, captures the spirit of Christmas and the joy of doing for others during the holiday season.

Mary Engelbreit presents A Night of Great Joy, a delightful picture book that celebrates the joyful season of Christmas. This book tells the story of the nativity through the performance of a children’s Christmas pageant. With adorable illustrations and simple storytelling, Engelbreit paints a wonderful picture of the night that Jesus was born.

A Night of Great Joy recalls that fateful night with wonder and awe. From the arrival of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem to the gathering of many before the baby Jesus, this holiday treasure leads children through the tale of the birth of Jesus, guiding them with the star of Bethlehem

For over 200 years, families have gathered on Christmas Eve to hear the much loved words of Dr. Clement C. Moore’s ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. This year, families can gather together to share the real Christmas story — the story of Jesus’ birth. ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas, by Glenys Nellist and illustrated by Elena Selivanova, echoes the familiar language and rhythm of Dr. Clements’ poetry, but instead of focusing on Santa, it focuses on the baby Jesus, who is, after all, the true hero of Christmas. All families will delight in this simple retelling of the most famous story ever told. With a cover that comes alive with foil and sculpted embossing, this book is sure to become a Christmas classic.

 

Bibles

Millions of children and their parents can’t be wrong. The bright and vibrant illustrations throughout and stunning binding of The Beginner’s Bible Gift Edition enhance every word, introducing boys and girls to the timeless stories of the Bible in a way they can read, remember, and, most importantly, live out. Kids will enjoy reading the story of Noah’s Ark as they see Noah helping the elephant onto the big boat. They will learn about the prophet Jonah as they see him praying inside the fish. They will follow along with the text of Jesus’ ministry as they see a man in need of healing lowered down through the roof of a house.

Parents, teachers, and pastors, if you’re looking for a gift that isn’t just beautifully presented but is also a proven, memorable way to introduce children to the beloved stories and parables of Scripture, look no further than The Beginner’s Bible Gift Edition.

All the beauty and love poured into the original Moonbeam Award gold medal winner in a clothbound gift edition that includes a ribbon marker. Whether for baptisms or First Communions, birthdays or Christmas, this is one gift that never fails to be a family favorite. If you are a parent, grandparent, pastor, or teacher looking for a way to teach the children in your life about God’s “Never Stopping, Never Giving up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love,” look no further than The Jesus Storybook Bible Gift Edition.

 

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Children’s Corner — Two for Christmas

20 Nov

Zonderkidz has two cute and colorful storybooks for kids available now — A Christmas Gift for Santa and A Very Fiona Christmas. While I liked both of these books, they were very secular in nature. But . . . they do offer parents an opportunity to expand the conversation about what Christmas is all about and being reminded to give to those who give us so much. Check out my impressions on each book below

A Christmas Gift for Santa

The Christmas story you haven’t read: What happens after Santa Claus delivers all the Christmas presents to boys and girls around the world?

Is there a gift waiting for Santa at the North Pole? Cuddle up with your little ones and follow the journey through Santa’s Workshop in search of Santa’s Christmas present. With bright and whimsical illustrations, this new take on the Christmas story is sure to become the newest addition to your holiday reading tradition — especially at bedtime!

Has Mrs. Claus forgotten Santa on Christmas Eve? He searches and searches their cozy North Pole home until he finds homemade gifts waiting for him next to a beautiful handwritten note. But what does it say?

My Impressions:

Santa is finally at home after his gift-giving spree across the world, but he feels a little left out when there is apparently no gift for him. This book has cute and colorful illustrations and a rhyming narrative as Santa searches for a gift. I think this book could serve as a springboard for parents to remind their kids of all those who give so much, but may not receive in return — policemen, firemen, nurses, etc. In the midst of gift-giving excitement, A Christmas Gift for Santa is a good reminder to show gratitude to those who selflessly share with others.

(Thanks to Zonderkidz for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

A Very Fiona Christmas

A follow-up to the New York Times bestselling Fiona the Hippo picture book comes A Very Fiona Christmas!

It’s Fiona the hippo’s very first Christmas, and the zoo is sparkling with holiday spirit. When the adorable little hippo asks her friends, “What’s Christmas?” they set out to show her all the wonders and excitement of the season. With each new experience Fiona lets out a snort, wiggles her ears, and asks, “Is THIS Christmas?”

Amidst the snow, twinkling lights, mistletoe, and stockings, Fiona ends up meeting a new friend at the zoo who helps her discover the true meaning of the holiday: Love. Snuggle up with your little ones and join Fiona and her adorable animal friends for a heartwarming holiday romp through the zoo. 

My Impressions: 

I have to say that while I loved the illustrations and the premise of this book, A Very Fiona Christmas left me wanting more. The book details Fiona’s search for what Christmas really is. She sees glittery decorations, sparkling snow, and fun gifts, but knows those aren’t really what Christmas is all about. At the end, with the help of all her zoo friends, she discovers that Christmas is Love. When I turned the final page, I thought where is the rest? While Christmas is about love, it is a very specific love — that of God for His people. Parents who choose this book for their kids can certainly expound on that concept, and I recommend that they do, to truly communicate the real meaning of Christmas.

(Thanks to Zonderkidz for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

 

 

 

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Children’s Corner — The One And Only Wolfgang and One Big Heart

30 Oct

Today I have not one, but two colorful children’s books to share with you! Each will delight your child. All the details are below –

The One And Only Wolfgang

From Instagram sensation Steve Greig and New York Times bestselling author Mary Rand Hess comes this humorous, heartwarming story about Greig’s real-life menagerie of senior rescue animals that affirms, in a family, everyone belongs.

What makes a family? Is it sharing favorite foods, cuddling up for snuggle time, loving each other no matter what you look like in the morning?

For Steve Greig’s oddly wonderful, real-life family of senior dogs, chickens, rabbits, and a pig named Bikini, family is all those things and then some! And this lovable bunch is now starring in their very first children’s book that showcases the importance of family.

Meet the Wolfgang, a loveable bunch of animals belonging to Steve and each other. Greig looked for the most “unadoptable” animals and gave them a home . . .  his home! Strange and unique, The One and Only Wolfgang will remind readers that no matter how old or how odd, everyone has a place where they belong.

Steve Greig is an accountant whose passion for animals has led to him becoming a sought-after advocate for pet adoption. He has appeared on television and in many publications, including NBC Nightly News, ABC News, Fox 5, Animal Planet, Bravo, Rachel Ray, Today.com, Huffington Post, and more.

Mary Rand Hess is a poet, screenwriter, mixed-media artist, and New York Times bestselling author of notable and award-winning books such as Solo and Swing (Blink YA), coauthored with Newbery Medalist Kwame Alexander, Animal Ark: Celebrating Our Wild World in Poetry and Pictures (National Geographic Children’s Books), also coauthored with Kwame Alexander and Deanna Nikaido, Little Larry Goes to School (National Geographic Children’s Books), written with renowned photographer and filmmaker, Gerry Ellis, and The One and Only Wolfgang: From Pet Rescue to One Big Happy Family, coauthored with Steve Greig of @wolfgang2242 Instagram fame. Mary lives in the Los Angeles area with her husband, sons, and quirky dogs (who sing to the piano and swear they’re human).

My Impressions:

The One And Only Wolfgang is the story of real life members of a very unique family — a real menagerie made up of rescues. While many might find these dogs, pig, and chicken (yes chicken!) unadoptable, they have found their forever home. I loved the hilarious photos that are inserted into the colorful illustrations with a narrative about the individual personalities of each member and the doings of this big, happy family. I think this book is a good reminder to everyone that finding a place among family is the very best place to be. It may even inspire you to welcome a rescue into your own home.

Recommended.

Audience: kids ages 4-8.

(Thanks to Zonderkidz for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

One Big Heart

What do you get when you combine ABC News correspondent Linsey Davis’ lyrical rhymes with Lucy Fleming’s whimsical art? A culture-rich picture book that proudly showcases the beauty of diversity while celebrating all the wonderful things we have in common.

From skin, hair, and eyes in a multitude of colors to different personalities and interests, God gave us all special traits and characteristics that make us uniquely ourselves. And we all have things in common too: like sharing fun and laughter on the playground, a sense of curiosity, big feelings, and so many other things that show how we are all more alike than we are different.

Ready to celebrate all our likes and differences? So are we! And this diverse picture book — drenched in color and full of laughter and fun — will show you how.

Linsey Davis is an Emmy Award winning ABC News Correspondent, filing reports for World News, Good Morning America, 20/20 and Nightline. She has covered major news stories around the globe.

In addition to her role at ABC, she is a Christian, wife, mother and author. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc and the National Association of Black Journalists.

Lucy Fleming has been an avid doodler and bookworm since early childhood. Drawing always seemed like so much fun, but she never dreamed it could be a full-time job! She studied art and practiced drawing every day, and in no time, she went on to graduate from the University of Lincoln (UK), having specialized in illustration. She leapt straight into a career as a professional children’s book illustrator and hasn’t looked back since. She lives and works in a small town in England, surrounded by farmland and trees and accompanied by a little, black cat. When not at her desk, she prefers nothing more than to be outdoors in the sunshine with a hot cup of tea.

My Impressions:

One Big Heart is all about differences and similarities — the variety found in people and the important things they share. With bold and colorful illustrations and a rhyming verse, the authors show the importance of being unique while celebrating the things that bind us together. Great lessons for both kids and adults!

Recommended.

Audience: kids ages 4-8.

(Thanks to Zonderkidz for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

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Top 10 Tuesday — New Childhood Favorites

2 Jul

Since I have already written about my favorite books from childhood a few times already, I thought it would be fun to highlight some new books that could easily become your child or grandchild’s treasured favorite. So my Top 10 Tuesday features pretty, touching, whimsical, and engaging children’s storybooks. The books run the gamut of topics, seasons, and holidays. I hope you find one you can gift your favorite child! 🙂

 

Top Children’s Books

The Bedtime Book by Mary Englebreit

Mama comes to tuck you in,

Pulls the covers to your chin,

Squeezes fingers, squeezes toes,

Lays a kiss upon your nose.

New York Times bestselling author Mary Engelbreit presents The Bedtime Book, a beautifully-illustrated picture book that pairs sleepy time text with Mary’s beloved, timeless art. From endearing poems and snuggly stories to sweet blessings and precious prayers, each page of The Bedtime Book features ways for you to read your little one to sleep. 

Colorfull by Dorena Williamson

Why be colorblind when we can be colorFULL instead?

Imani and Kayla are the best of friends who are learning to celebrate their different skin colors. As they look around them at the amazing colors in nature, they can see that their skin is another example of God’s creativity! This joyful story takes a new approach to discussing race: instead of being colorblind, we can choose to celebrate each color God gave us and be colorFULL instead.  

Easter Is Coming by Tama Fortner

Mommy and her little ones are settling in for story time, and this time it’s the biblical story of Easter that she’s telling. As the youngsters hear God’s tale unfold with its sometimes somber notes about sin and death, they are softly and continually reminded, “But Easter is coming!” By the end of the book, the anticipation has built and the children can celebrate the ending and the glory of Easter Sunday.
 
In a time when children’s Easter excitement often focuses on only egg hunts and candy, this book offers a different — and true — reason for joy and expectancy. It’s designed to be read and reread on the days leading up to Easter, telling the greatest story and building a sense of anticipation and celebration in little hearts.

Found by Sally Lloyd-Jones

From the bestselling The Jesus Storybook Bible, with over two million products sold, comes Found based on Psalm 23. Written by Sally Lloyd-Jones and illustrated by Jago, little ones will fall in love with this padded cover board book that reminds them of God’s Never Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love.

A Kite For Moon by Jane Yolen and Heidi E. Y. Stemple

Dedicated to astronaut Neil Armstrong, A Kite for Moon is the perfect children’s book to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first United States moon landing.

What would it be like if the moon was your friend? Find out as you walk alongside a little boy who journeys through life to achieve his dream of becoming an astronaut. And then blast off with your little one as you zoom to the moon together!

The story begins when a little boy, who is flying his kite, notices a sad Moon. He sends up kites to her, writing notes promising he will come see her someday. This promise propels him through years of studying, learning, and training to become an astronaut. Until … he finally goes up, up, up in a big rocket ship with a fiery tail!

Little Sweepea, God Loves You

Featuring read-aloud rhymes and adorable illustrations, Little Sweet Pea, God Loves You is the perfect book for a parent, grandparent, or any other loved one to share with the little one in their life. With each reading, it will bring joy to your child’s heart, and might even bring a tear to your eye as the charming illustrations and sweet rhymes remind you how precious these moments are between you and your Little Sweet Pea.

Little Sweet Pea, God loves you.
From button nose to gentle coo.
Squishy cheeks and sparkly eyes,
Pure delight and perfect size.

The Marvelous Mud House by April Graney

Ben and his American family live in a hungry ranch house where they are always wanting more. But then they travel far across the world to Kenya and visit the marvelous mud house where George and Mama George live. There, among the mango trees, they discover a marvelous lesson about what it’s like to be full of joy instead.

A Night of Great Joy by Mary Englebreit

Mary Engelbreit presents A Night of Great Joy, a delightful picture book that celebrates the joyful season of Christmas. This book tells the story of the nativity through the performance of a children’s Christmas pageant. With adorable illustrations and simple storytelling, Engelbreit paints a wonderful picture of the night that Jesus was born.

A Night of Great Joy recalls that fateful night with wonder and awe. From the arrival of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem to the gathering of many before the baby Jesus, this holiday treasure leads children through the tale of the birth of Jesus, guiding them with the star of Bethlehem.

Who Sang The First Song by Ellie Holcomb

Have you ever wondered who hummed the first tune?

Was it the flowers? The waves or the moon? Dove Award-winning recording artist Ellie Holcomb answers with a lovely lyrical tale, one that reveals that God our Maker sang the first song, and He created us all with a song to sing.

Would A Worm Go On A Walk? by Hannah Hall

Would a worm go on a walk, if you could lead him down the street? / Would he wear his tiny tennies, if he had two worm-sized feet?

So begins this humorous and imaginative picture book that introduces children to the idea that animals are uniquely created by a loving and wise God. Would a Worm Go on a Walk?, with its colorful, comical illustrations, is a fresh, fun way to teach young children that God created all things very good. He gave all the animals, and children, too, wonderful qualities and unique strengths. Children will giggle over the ridiculous scenarios presented, and they will come away with the knowledge that we all are loved and special. Ages 4-7.

 

What’s your favorite storybook?

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Children’s Corner + Giveaway! — Isaac’s Ice Cream Tree and When God Made Color

2 May

About the Books

WhiteSpark Publishing is thrilled to bring readers young and old two delightful stories all about color!

Isaac’s Ice Cream Tree

Isaac loves the sugar maple in his yard, and he can’t help but feel bad for it when its branches are winter-bare. He decides to give it a gift…and is surprised when the tree returns the favor in the new morning snow, presenting him with balls of…ice cream!

But how long can this magic last with spring on the horizon? A magical exploration through the colors of the rainbow, the days of the week, and some of our favorite fruits that is sure to delight.

When God Made Color

The wonders of creation spread out before us in all the glories of the rainbow…the deep purples and blues of night, the bright yellows of day, the pinks and oranges of flowers. And of course, the colors of all the creatures…including us! These sumptuous fine art illustrations will thrill parent and child alike!

Click here to purchase Isaac’s Ice Cream Tree.

Click here to purchase When God Made Color.

My Impressions:

Isaac’s Ice Cream Tree

Magic abounds when Isaac’s friend, a sugar maple tree, welcomes him each morning with a surprise — ice cream! This fun children’s storybook is perfect for practicing reading skills or for family reading time. A number of what ifs are sure to crop up as your child thinks about the possibility of magic all around them. I loved the author’s afterword telling of the origins of this story. Another fun thing to share with your kids, perhaps to inspire the creative spark in their own lives!

Recommended.

Audience: kids ages 5-8.

(Thanks to Celebrate Lit for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

When God Made Color

Bold, bright and highly detailed illustrations compliment the vibrant text of When God Made Color, a look at Creation that is sure to inspire awe and wonder in your child. God didn’t just make the plants, and birds, and animals — He made them with a variety of color and shapes and purposes. He also made man in His image, also in an amazing array of color. The message that God’s world is beautiful and that a master designer was at work is deftly told in words that children ages 5-8 can easily understand. This book is good for honing reading skills or for family reading time.

Recommended.

Audience: kids ages 5-8.

(Thanks to Celebrate Lit for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

About the Authors

Angela Henderson resides in Dallas, Texas, where she teaches middle school English Language Arts & Reading and is a mother of three. Exploring children’s books for twelve years with her own children during numerous “story times” at the local library and reading hundreds of books to her children, her passion for quality children’s literature led her to write her own work. After creating her blog and Facebook page, Kidsbook Friends, and her Instagram, Instabooks, she’s been able to share her love of literature with over a thousand followers by featuring authors and books. She’s thrilled to introduce her own creative story where magical moments lead to positive perspectives.

 

Sheri Carmon seeks to incorporate the beauty of the Lord’s heart, His ways and His love in her writing for children. As an author, her goal is to shine His light through stories. In the past she has published poetry and inspirational compositions with both Blue Mountain Arts and The Group Publishing. Sheri has always cared for the individual needs of families and spent fifteen marvelous, fast-paced years in real estate, specializing in family friendly homes. She and her husband have helped facilitate whole church Bible-reading programs in Colorado, Nebraska and South Dakota. They make their home in Colorado, on the front range of the Rocky Mountains, where they’re surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation every day.

More from Angela

Why children’s books? After all, I teach young teens. Well, my reasons:

  1. I love art, and reading children’s books is like looking at an artist’s showcase of creativity!
    * Shout out to my amazing illustrator, Rachael Koppendrayer!
  2. I love to dream up the impossible, and you can make anything happen in a children’s book!
  3. I love togetherness and nothing brings a family together like a good book.

As I read picture books with my kiddos, the teacher in me wanted to instruct too. I created a blog (http://www.kidsbookfriends.com) so teachers, librarians and parents could have little lessons to help them “make friends” with the characters in the stories I featured. Surrounded by such inspiration from these books and my kiddos, I started writing my own manuscripts when my kids were all under age five, mainly sketches of thoughts until I had segments of time where I could construct stories.

After several years of attending SCBWI conferences; connecting with writers; creating manuscripts & editing and revising, editing and revising (you see a pattern?!); and submitting them to publishers, Isaac’s Ice Cream Tree was accepted for publication and was released January 15, 2019, by Whitefire Publishing! (It’s a process!!!)

The message embedded in this colorful, magical story expresses a very real part of my heart as it’s our family motto: “Always remember to look for the rainbow.” My kids and I both literally and figuratively practice this principle, rushing out after every rain to see if the sky is painted with a bow as well as trying to find the good that comes through the storms of life.

Through my journey, I’ve experienced much loss through moving many times, caring for my mother during her dying days, and losing my husband through divorce. Yet in it all, God redeems and uses each pain and joy like brush strokes on a canvass, reminding us of His unfailing promises while creating a masterpiece.

Creativity, imagination, inspiration . . . make magical moments.

Gather together. Dream the impossible. Embrace the colors. . . as I introduce you to a new friend, Isaac! Excited to share this story with you. . . and my next one . . . and the one after that. . . until we have many new kindred spirits . . .together.

Click here for a fee printable coloring page.

Click here to learn the story behind the story.

More from Sheri

A child asks, “Who am I?”
Creation Vs. Evolution – The big battle. Many public schools are presenting Evolution as fact and not theory. They leave no room for the concept of Creation. Our little ones are not creatures descended from animals, they are Children of God, created in His image. This is our identity and our children’s Identity and it makes all the difference in how we see ourselves, how we see others and how we engage in the world. Our identity is made clear in Genesis, the first book of the Bible. Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground. So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them, male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:26-27 NIV. As Christian parents and grandparents, we are charged with teaching, encouraging and bringing forth our family line for the LORD. The new picture book When God Made Color, with its awe inspiring illustrations, is about our true identity and about the joyful, loving God who created us and the whole universe – a universe that is still expanding – Isn’t He just amazing?

Click here to view a special video

Blog Stops

A Baker’s Perspective, May 2

By The Book, May 2

Among the Reads, May 3

cultivating us, May 3

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 4

Reflections From My Bookshelves, May 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 5

Mary Hake, May 5

For Him and My Family, May 6

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, May 6

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 7

Blogging With Carol, May 7

Lighthouse Academy, May 8

God’s Peculiar Treasure Rae, May 8

Pause for Tales, May 9

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, May 9

Inspiration Clothesline, May 10

Reading Themes, May 10

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 11

Texas Book-aholic, May 11

Have A Wonderful Day, May 12

janicesbookreviews, May 12

A Reader’s Brain, May 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 13

Older & Smarter?, May 14

Creating Romance, May 14

Inklings and notions, May 14

Aryn, the Libraryan, May 15

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, May 15

The Becca Files, May 15

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Angela and Sheri is giving away a grand prize of The Great Color Giveaway Package that includes a$25 gift card from Amazon, Rainbow ice-cream cups with colored spoons, a paperback copy of Isaacs’s Ice Cream Tree, a $25 gift card from Barnes and Noble,
Crayola Washable Kids’ Paint – 12 count original and glitter paint (see attached image), and a paperback copy of When God Made Color!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e2a9/the-great-color-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Children’s Corner: Where Do I Find Jesus?

30 Mar

Twins Emma and Liam are eager to introduce their new friend Abby to a special place and a special someone. As Abby uncovers the surprise, she gets help from a delightful dog duo to discover someone special who loves her very much—Jesus! With a letter from the author that includes the gospel message, this fun story offers a unique way to introduce young readers to Jesus and show them why and how to find Him.

This newest picture book in The Bible Is My Best Friend brand, Where Do I Find Jesus? joins Meet My Best Friend, The Bible Is My Best Friend Family Devotional, and The Bible Is My Best Friend Bible Storybook.

 

 

Sheila Walsh is a Scottish lass known as “the encourager” to the over 5.5 million women she’s met and spoken to around the world. She loves being a Bible teacher, making God’s Word practical, and sharing her own story of how God met her when she was at her lowest point and lifted her up again.

Her message: GOD IS FOR YOU!

Sheila also enjoys being an author — in fact she likes to write everyday — and has sold more than five million books. Her newest, IN THE MIDDLE OF THE MESS, STRENGTH FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL, BROKEN LIFE, (book and Bible study) releases in November 2017. She is also the co-host of the television program Life Today, airing in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia.

Her favorite way to spend a day is to support missions work through the Life Today ministry, working worldwide to feed the hungry, give water to the thirsty, provide medical help to the sick, and rescue boys and girls from sex slavery. She most recently traveled to Africa, the Dominican Republic, and Southeast Asia.

Calling Texas home, Sheila lives in Dallas with her husband, Barry; her son, Christian; and three little dogs — Belle, Tink, and Maggie.

You can stay in touch with her on Facebook at sheilawalshconnects, on Twitter at @sheilawalsh, on Instagram at sheilawalsh1 and on Pinterest at @sheiladwalsh.

 

Sarah Horne grew up in snowy Derbyshire, UK with some goats and a brother.

She learnt to draw whilst trying to explain her reasoning for an elaborate haircut at the age of nine. Sarah then honed her skills on the mean streets of Falmouth, studying Illustration. Here, there were daily street battles of scribbling resulting in many paper cuts, but some very nice drawing.

Alongside working on some very funny children’s titles, Sarah has also worked on commissions for The Guardian, The Sunday Times, Kew Gardens, Sesame Street and for IKEA as their Children’s Illustrator In Residence.

She now draws, paints, writes and giggles from underneath a pile of paper at her studio in London.

Sarah’s books have sold internationally in Mexico, Japan, Korea, Portugal, Germany, US, Australia and NZ.

 

My Impressions: 

For Christian parents, the most important part of raising their kids is introducing them to Jesus. From singing Jesus Loves Me to tucking them in at night with bedtime prayers, parents consistently tell their children of God’s love and care. But what about explaining the need for a savior and instructing them on how to know they are a child of God? Sheila Walsh has written Where Do I Find Jesus? to help parents lead their children to a personal relationship with Jesus. With quirky and colorful illustrations, twins Emma and Liam tell their new friend about Jesus in a natural and simple manner. With funny commentary from some four-footed friends, the book is easy to read and understand by children ages 4-8. While your kids will enjoy the story, there is a big, big bonus for you as well: a guide to explain the need for a savior and the way to accept Jesus into one’s heart, complete with scripture references. Where Do I Find Jesus? is the perfect launch pad into deeper discussions about God and Jesus.

Recommended.

Audience: kids 4-8 and their parents.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to B&H Publishers for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Children’s Corner — Found

28 Feb

51ru0piqowl-_sy498_bo1204203200_From the bestselling The Jesus Storybook Bible, with over two million products sold, comes Found based on Psalm 23. Written by Sally Lloyd-Jones and illustrated by Jago, little ones will fall in love with this padded cover board book that reminds them of God’s Never Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love.

 

 

b1o09dwbp8s-_ux250_Sally Lloyd-Jones is a Brit who came to the US in 1989 “just for a year.” She’s still here.

Born in Kampala, Uganda, raised in East, and West Africa and at a boarding school in the New Forest, the first book she ever remembers reading all the way through was THE COMPLETE NONSENSE by Edward Lear. Things have not been the same since.

She lives in Manhattan and enjoys dividing her time between the front half of her apartment and the back.

http://www.sallylloyd-jones.com

51rfq3zhwpl-_ux250_Some time ago, a boy called Jago arrived here on Earth with a burning ambition to be ….

Superman, Indiana Jones, or quite possibly King Arthur.

Afer a little hard work and an awful lot of drawing I settled on my fourth choice of career, illustrating children’s books, something I reckon I could be quite good at one day.

I live in a slightly damp wetsuit in Cornwall with my fantastically lovely wife Alex, beautiful daughter Lily Peach and small round son, Rudy.

I work almost entirely digitally, using a couple of Macs and an iPad in a secret blend of the finest textures, papers and digital paints. I could tell you how I make each picture, but then I’d have to kill you.

I enjoy working on children’s books and am drawn to stories with a hint of eccentricity.

jagoillustration.com

My Impressions:

Your Easter basket shopping just got easier! Found, written by Sally Lloyd-Jones and illustrated by Jago, is the perfect way to show your child God’s love. With simple verse based on Psalm 23, your child will easily understand all the ways God cares for him. The Good Shepherd is beside his little lamb through all things, including times that are scary. I loved the simple, yet effective, illustrations. That little lamb is very expressive, smiling and content when in the arms of his shepherd. Found comes in a sturdy board book format suitable for the smallest of readers. It will hold up to the multiple readings your child is sure to request. I can’t wait to share this one with a little friend!

Highly Recommended.

Audience: children ages 4-8.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to Zonderkidz for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

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Children’s Corner — Two Board Books for Black History Month

9 Feb

February is Black History Month, and Worthy Publishing has two great board books, The Story of Rosa Parks and The Story of Martin Luther King Jr., to share with the littlest of readers. Here’s the scoop:

unknownThis little book of only about 200 words introduces Rosa Parks, called the mother of the civil rights movement. Here is the story of her courageous decision to remain on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, an action that resulted in her arrest and, ultimately, a victory for civil rights. The rich oil paintings by artist Steven Walker contribute to the tension of the moment and the understanding of Rosa Parks.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

 

 

unknown-1This little book tells the story of Martin Luther King Jr. in a way that even very young children will understand. This simple but accurate account of his life begins with King’s childhood, making it easy for little ones to relate to his story. Children will learn that he excelled in school, became a minister, and worked to end segregation in America. This book, with only about 200 words accompanied by delicate watercolors, is a great way for parents to begin to teach their children about this inspirational historical figure.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

My Impressions:

It is never too early to introduce your children to historical events and people that have made a huge impact on our current society. The board books, The Story of Rosa Parks and The Story of Martin Luther King Jr., are easily understood looks into what the world was like before the Civil Rights movement. The simple phrases of the stories are accompanied by illustrations that bring the struggles of African Americans to life. The books also emphasize the great strides we have made in the equality of all Americans. Children will easily see themselves in the stories as well and feel empathy for what others in history went through. Standing for truth and justice, living lives of integrity and peace, both of these heroes of the Civil Rights movement will come alive to your kids. So if you are looking for a way to share our nation’s history with your kids, consider choosing these two books.

Recommended.

Audience: children ages 2-5.

(Thanks to Worthy Publishing for complimentary copies of these books. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Top 10 Tuesday! — Children’s Picture Books

31 Jan

This week The Broke And The Bookish have challenged us to share our favorite graphic novels, comic books or picture books. I have been incredibly blessed to receive for review some absolutely beautiful and charming children’s storybooks. My children are all grown now and no grandchildren have arrived. Yet! But I still love reading these books. For now I get to share them with my little friends (until grandchildren start arriving at my door 😉 ).

To find out what other bloggers are sharing this week, click HERE.

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Top 10 Children’s Picture Books

7 Days of Awesome

Baby Wren And The Great Gift

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Christmas Love Letters from God

God Made You Nose to Toes

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How Big is Love

I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug!

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The Legend of The Easter Robin

Night Night, Farm

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A Night of Great Joy

Would A Worm Go On A Walk?

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What are some of your favorites?

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