Tag Archives: Glenys Nellist

Top Ten Tuesday — “Fall” Freebie

28 Sep

It’s fall here in the Sunny South, but the only real evidence is the lower humidity — Hallelujah! — and cooler morning temps. I think some cooler daytime highs are in the near future, but until then the air conditioner continues to hum. This week’s TTT is a Freebie, and I decided to list books with a variation of “fall” in the title. Some actually have an autumn connection; others not so much. šŸ˜‰ I included both adult and children’s books so all can join in on the fun. Hope you find a book that piques your interest.

For more Freebie fun, check out That Artsy Reader Girl.

Top 10 Fall Titles

Beneath Copper Falls by Colleen Coble

A Fall of Marigolds by Susan Meissner

Falling for You by Becky Wade

The Long Fall by Penelope Wilcock

Night Fall by Nancy Mehl

The Sound of Falling Leaves by Lisa Carter

When Leaves Fall in Paris by Sarah Sundin

Where The Fire Falls by Karen Barnett

Fun Fall Day by Tara Knudson

Snuggle Time Fall Blessings by Glenys Nellist

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Children’s Corner — Grandma Snuggles

19 Aug

Grandma, this oneā€™s especially for you! Cuddle your grandchildren close with this adorable book. Written by bestselling author Glenys Nellist, this board book celebrates the loving relationship between a grandma and her little ones with sweet animal rhymes and charming illustrations.

Grandma Snuggles is an engaging, board book that celebrates the love between a grandma and her little ones. Whether itā€™s Grandma Mouse who shares her cheese or Grandma Duck who splashes in the lake, this book shows special cuddles and love, relaying a message that all grandmas are special in their own ways.

So, hop, skip, and run with Grandma Rabbit and roll into a ball with Grandma Hedgehog. Most of all, celebrate Grandma whoā€™s as sweet as pie!

Through the fields and gardens,
We hop, and skip, and run.
God made the worldā€™s best Grandma ā€”
Sheā€™s really lots of fun.

Glenys Nellist was born and raised in a little village in northern England. The author of multiple children’s books, including the bestselling ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas, The Wonder That is You, and the popular series Love Letters from God and Snuggle Time, her writing reflects a deep passion for helping children discover joy in the world. Glenys lives in Michigan with her husband, David.

 

My Impressions:

I cannot wait to share Grandma Snuggles with my grand baby! The perfect choice for grandma/mimi/nanna time, this book features rhyming verse about a variety of grandma and grandchild relationships. Besides showing the animals in their unique habitats, the book reinforces the wonderful bond within extended families. The illustrations are cute and will keep your child interested as you turn the pages. In fact, talking about each animal will lengthen the fun read together time. This beefy board book will become a favorite.

Recommended.

Audience: babies to Pre-K

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

 

 

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Children’s Corner — Two for Fall

16 Oct

I love the fall season — crisp temperatures, colorful leaves, and fresh sweet apples! I have two children’s books to share today that capture the essence of fall. Check them out below!

Snuggle Time Fall Blessings by Glenys Nellist

Snuggle up with your little one and enjoy all the best parts of autumn togetherā€”pumpkin picking, colored leaves, hayrides, and more ā€” with this adorable padded-cover board book. Get ready for repeated readings and lots of hugs!

Carving pumpkins. Fresh baked apple pie. Leaf piles. Jack-o’-lanterns. Featuring Glenys Nellistā€™s whimsical read-aloud rhymes and Cee Biscoeā€™s cuddly illustrations, the Snuggle Time Fall Blessingsboard book will become part of your new autumn reading tradition.

Whether youā€™re a parent or grandparent, Sunday School teacher or older bother or sister, the little ones in your life will be ready for all the joys fall can bring when they hear ā€¦

Letā€™s go apple picking,
Shake them from the tree.
Round and fat and juicy,
The big red oneā€™s for me

Glenys Nellist was born and raised in a little village in northern England. The author of multiple children’s books, including the bestselling ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas and the popular series Love Letters from God and Snuggle Time, her writing reflects a deep passion for helping children discover joy in the world. Glenys lives in Michigan with her husband, David.

My Impressions:

Snuggle Time Fall Blessings is a great board book suitable for the tiniest reader. Adorable illustrations featuring woodland animals participating in fun autumn activities accompany easy rhymes. Each poem flows naturally into the next so that the book can be read in one sitting or during successive reading times. There’s all sorts of fun things within this book — apple picking, pumpkin carving, wagon rides — that your child will identify from your own family activities. And it opens and closes with the same sentiment — thankfulness to God for all He provides. Recommended!

Recommended.

Audience: preschool aged children.

To purchase, click HERE.

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

 

Love Is Kind by Laura Sassi

Love Is Kind is a heartwarming story about Little Owl who hopes to buy his grammy a heart-shaped box of chocolates for her birthday. On his quest for the chocolates, heā€™s thwarted at every turn, but ends up discovering the real meaning of love as described in 1 Corinthians 13. Told in simple prose by bestselling author Laura Sassi, this heartfelt and humorous picture book is a sweet reminder that real love isnā€™t found in a box ā€“ even one filled with chocolates. Love Is Kind takes a charming and gentle approach to teaching kids the true meaning of love, while celebrating the bonds that kids have with their grandparents, and the many forms that love and happiness can take.

Laura Sassi has a passion for telling humorous stories in prose and rhyme. She is the author of GOODNIGHT, ARK (Zonderkidz, 2014), GOODNIGHT, MANGER (Zonderkidz, 2015), DIVA DELORES AND THE OPERA HOUSE MOUSE (Sterling, 2018) and LOVE IS KIND (Zonderkidz, 2018) She lives in New Jersey with her husband, two children, and a black Cockapoo named Sophie.

My Impressions:

Love Is Kind by Laura Sassi tells the tale of Little Owl and his determination to buy his Grammy a present for her birthday. But as Little Owl meets all kinds of troubles along the way, he is reminded of what love really looks like. The story has a simple, yet powerful message found in 1 Corinthians 13. In fact, snippets of the Love Chapter can be found hidden in the illustrations — added fun as you and your child look closely to discover truths from God’s word. While Love Is Kind by Laura Sassi is not specifically about autumn, it definitely gives off a fall-vibe in its illustrations. The cute animal characters are decked out in scarves and sweaters and colorful leaves cover the ground. The color palate is warm with oranges, browns, and yellows making this book perfect for a snuggly family read. Recommended!

Recommended.

Audience: children ages 4-8.Ā 

To purchase, click HERE.

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

 

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Children’s Corner — The Wonder That Is You

29 Jul

Every parent dreams of embracing their new child, and when that dream comes true, it’s as if all of creation rejoices with them. In the tradition of Nancy Tillman’s On The Night You Were Born and Emily Winfield Martin’s The Wonderful Things You Will Be comes The Wonder That Is You by critically-acclaimed author Glenys Nellist. This heartwarming picture book beautifully captures the universal love and joy parents feel as they celebrate the arrival of a new child. A perfect gift for baby showers, baptisms, adoptions, birthdays, or any time you want to tell your little one how much they are loved.

It felt as if the world stood still
The day my dream came true,
And all creation paused to see
The wonder that is you.
Ā 
I thought I heard the trees clap hands
And as their leaves unfurled,
They whispered softly in the breeze,
Welcome to our world.

 

To purchase, click HERE.

 

Glenys Nellist (in her own words):

Although I live in Michigan, USA, I was born and raised in a little village in northern England.

I grew up in a big old house, with two wonderful parents and seven siblings. My dad was the one who introduced me to the gospel. My mum was the one who encouraged me to work with children.

And at primary school, my teacher was the one who urged me to write. One day a week, I was one of the lucky few withdrawn from the classroom to sit in big, comfy armchairs in the teachers’ lounge. There, in front of a roaring log fire, with pencil and paper at the ready, I would write.

Four long decades later, I would find myself living across the pond, married to a wonderful man, mum to four children and three daughters-in-law, and grandma to three bouncing boys and one gorgeous girl. And as if all that wasn’t blessing enough, I somehow became an author, despite giving up on my first book half way through.

And if you would have told me then, that this book would one day become a series, that I would begin a second series, and a third… I never would have believed you. The only possible explanation is that our great God is able to do immeasurably more than all I could ever ask or possibly imagine.

And to God, alone, be the glory.

My Impressions:

In her latest children’s book, Glenys Nellist captures the awe, excitement, and love that accompanies the birth of a new baby. The rhyming verse and the beautifully detailed illustrations in The Wonder That Is You vividly relate the unique creation that is every child. My family is welcoming a new member in a few months, and I think this book will become a favorite in the new arrival’s library. One of my favorite things is that the mother/baby pictures are very diverse, making this book perfect for every family. So if you are looking for a gift for parents-to-be or a new baby, you definitely need to check this one out.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: children and families

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

 

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Children’s Corner: Christmas Love Letters from God

14 Dec

51erywzt5ul-_sy447_bo1204203200_Written for children ages four to eight, Christmas Love Letters from God cleverly combines both prose and poetry as the story of Jesusā€™ birth unfolds. The book includes seven stories, beginning with Isaiahā€™s prophecy and ending with the visit of the wise men. Following each story, the child will find his or her own letter from God, folded into a small envelope attached to the page. Each letter begins with a space in which to write the childā€™s name, so each one can be specially addressed to the child.

Written as if God is speaking, each personalized message gives the young reader a sense of wonder as they discover anew the Christmas holiday and the birth of Jesus. A very special Bible verse, entitled Godā€™s Perfect Promise, also accompanies each story and letter as Godā€™s personal words of love, promise, and hope.

 

21elzywgdnl-_ux250_Glenys Nellist (in her own words) —

Although I live in Michigan, USA, I was born and raised in a little village in northern England.

I grew up in a big old house, with two wonderful parents and seven siblings. My dad was the one who introduced me to the gospel. My mum was the one who encouraged me to work with children.

And at primary school, my teacher was the one who urged me to write. One day a week, I was one of the lucky few withdrawn from the classroom to sit in big, comfy armchairs in the teachers’ lounge. There, in front of a roaring log fire, with pencil and paper at the ready, I would write.

I never would have imagined that four decades later, I would be blessed enough to be an author of children’s books, or be married to a wonderful husband, or be mum to four sons, and a grandma too. But of course, no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him. (1 Corinthians 2:9)

And to God, alone, be the glory.

My Impressions:

Nothing I can say can improve on the description of Christmas Love Letters from God at the top of this post. Scripture told in easy to understand language combines with rhyme that makes the characters come to life giving your child a big picture view of the birth of Jesus foretold by ancient prophets and come to earth as God’s greatest gift. The book is beautifully illustrated and captures the awe and wonder of the Christmas season. I loved how the author includes promises from God’s word that apply to the stories as well as to life today. SpecialĀ lettersĀ from God help personalize each story. There is even a blank letter at the back that your child can address to Jesus!

A wonderful addition to family reading time, Christmas Love Letters from God is a recommended read!

Recommended.

Audience: children ages 5-8.

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: Snuggle Time Psalms

4 Aug

51Bt+zRb+QL._SX332_BO1,204,203,200_Did you think the book of Psalms was only for adults? Think again! Snuggle Time Psalms, written by Glenys Nellist and illustrated by Cee Biscoe, is the perfect way to introduce little ones to the poetry book of the Bible. This padded cover board book uses simple concepts, rhyming text and adorable art to help children engage with the Psalms. Beginning with Bedtime PeaceĀ and ending with Wonderful Me!Ā this collection of fifteen bedtime poems enables young children to discover the One who holds them in his arms, leads them like a shepherd, created them just as they are, and cherishes them with a love that never ends . . . snuggle and see!

 

To purchase, click HERE.

 

9b305e16ade1515f7d4e003249a5d927Glenys Nellist is the Coordinator of Children’s Ministry for the West Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church. She is the Zondervan children’s book author of two popular series: Love Letters from God and Snuggle Time. Glenys is a writer with a passion for God, her family, and children’s ministry.

 

My Impressions:

The Bible is not only the final authority on God’s truth, it is a treasure trove of literature. History, letters, parables and poetry all are represented. Snuggle Time Psalms is a wonderful way to introduce your young child to the beauty of poetry with the underlying themes of God’s provision, power and love. Each poem in this collection is introduced by a passage of Scripture from some of your favorite Psalms. The rhymes reiterate the message from each Psalm. The cute illustrations will keep your child engaged as you share the beauty of God’s word. Perfect for bedtime reading, Snuggle Time Psalms is recommended for everyone!

Recommended.

Audience: children ages 2-4.

(Thanks to Zondervan for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Children’s Corner: Two Board Books

10 Feb

UnknownLittle One, God Loves You, written by Amy Warren Hilliker, illustrated by Polona LovsinĀ and inspired by the New York Times #1 bestseller The Purpose-Driven Life, is a cute and cuddly board book that letā€™s children know God made them solely for the purpose of loving them.

To purchase this book click HERE.

 

My Impressions:

It is never too early to tell your child how God has created him or her and has a purpose for their lives and a place in His family. From the first brightly illustrated page to the last, children are reminded of how much God loves them. A simple message with a big impact. Looking for items to fill the Easter basket? Little One, God Loves You would make a great addition.

Recommended.

Audience: children ages 4-6.

 

51bxxPcWHRL._SX356_BO1,204,203,200_Snuggle Time Prayers, written by Glenys Nellist and illustrated by Cee Biscoe, is a perfect bedtime collection of fifteen prayers. This padded cover board book will help children settle down at bedtime and remind them of their blessings as they draw closer to God.

 

To purchase this book, click HERE.

 

My Impressions:Ā 

When my children were little, the time before bed was especially sweet. We snuggled and bonded with a favorite book. Snuggle Time Prayers combines catchy rhymes, cute illustrations and God’s word to emphasize God’s love, provision and direction in all our lives, even the smallest child. I liked that the accompanying scripture for each prayer directs the words — a great lesson that God’s word is the basis for everything. This book is another great choice for family time.

Recommended.

Audience: children ages 2-4.

(Thanks to Zonderkidz for review copies of these books. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Book Review: Love Letters from God

3 Oct

733843What child does not love to receive mail? What if that child could receive, open and read his or her own personal mail from God?Ā Love Letters from God will invite them to do just that! Accompanying each story in this unique childrenā€™s Bible is a very special and encouraging letter, each tucked away in its own lift-the-flap envelope, just for them. Written for children ages four to eight,Ā Love Letters from God includes eighteen of the most popular Bible storiesā€”nine from the Old Testament and nine from the New Testament. Following each story the child will find his or her own letter from God. Children will love the excitement of opening the letters and parents will love how each letter elaborates on the Bible story being told. A very special Bible verse, entitled Godā€™s Wonderful Words To You will accompany each story and letter. Much more than a mere memory verse, each carefully chosen promise will be Godā€™s very own personal words of love, encouragement, and hope. This book will culminate in an invitation for the children to write their own RSVP to God.

 

 

glenys_XK8GT5ERGlenys Nellist (from the author’s website) —Ā Author of Love Letters from God. Originally a primary school teacher from England, I came to the United States to serve as Christian Education Director alongside my husband, who is a pastor. We now serve a vibrant, growing congregation at Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Rapids, Michigan. I am a writer with a passion for children’s ministry.

 

wpc70dddc7Sophie Allsopp (from the illustrator’s website) –I spent my childhood endlessly painting, sewing, cutting, and sticking – basically making stuff all the time (except when I was off exploring with my sisters). From a young age I wanted to be something creative, and ended up studying for an illustration degree in Bath.

I set up my illustration business with help from the Princeā€™s Youth Business Trust, and in the 20 years since, I have worked for a large range of clients. I worked part time whilst my son was little, but returned to full time work with a new style and renewed enthusiasm. I love being an illustrator, and find it very rewarding.

In my spare time, I have carried on making stuff – jewellery using silver and natural materials, dress making and needle felting (amongst other things!)

Likes: family get togethers, japanese craft books, vegetarian lasagne, standing on the tops of hills
Dislikes: celery, sitting backwards on trains, rubbish womenā€™s magazines, slugs

I still live close to where I grew up in the south east of England, with my husband, son, cat and guinea pig.

 

My Impressions:

In a world of so many children’s Bible storybooks, it is hard to choose just the right one for your special child. If you can only buy one, I recommend Love Letters from God by Glenys Nellist and illustrated by Sophie Allsopp. Written for children ages 4-9, this book has it all — beautiful and detailed illustrations, well-written retellings of Bible stories in both prose and verse, a Bible verse to reinforce the story, and best of all, a personalized message showing your child how he or she can be part of God’s story. There are 18 stories, 9 each from the Old and New Testaments, all favorites, but not all always included in Bible storybooks. I especially liked the inclusion of the call to Samuel and the parable of the Lost Sheep. At the end, there is an invitation to joinĀ Jesus’ team and a blank card for your child to write their own love letter to God. Love Letters from God is a great way to explain God to your child and lead him to a deeper understanding and relationship with Him. A perfect addition to your family’s library, I highly recommend this book.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: children ages 4-9.

(Thanks to Zondervan for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

To purchase this book, click on the image below.

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