Tag Archives: Maria Antonia

Top 10 Tuesday — Book Blanket Update

25 Mar

Happy Tuesday! I was not feeling the TTT topic today — DNF (did not finish) books. Didn’t we just post about that topic? I typically finish all the books that I start primarily because I am pretty picky about the books I choose to read — mood reading, favorite genres or authors, etc. So today I am posting an update about my 2025 book blanket. Below are the books I have recently read and the granny squares I have made to remember them by. And in good conscience, I have to confess that I may be choosing books based on pretty covers. 😉 Do you have any bookish projects going on?

For more on-topic bloggers’ lists please visit That Artsy Reader Girl.

2025 Book Blanket Update

Children’s Corner (+Giveaway!) — Barnaby The Runaway Sheep

12 Mar

If you are looking for a sweet storybook for your special young reader, then consider Barnaby The Runaway Sheep. Jesus often described his followers as sheep — vulnerable and dependent, but often going their own way. In this retelling of the Parable of The Lost Sheep, Barnaby loves his shepherds yet cannot get away from his own fears and ultimately distrust of their plans for him. Sound familiar? LOL! Author Maria Antonia makes this an easy to understand and relate to story for children ages 4-8. I can just hear my granddaughter asking why Barnaby wanted to run away from all the good things in his life. What a great book to teach trusting in God! The illustrations are detailed and colorful helping to keep the youngest of readers engaged. Perfect for the home library, Barnaby The Runaway Sheep would be wonderful nestled in an Easter basket.

Recommended.

Audience: children ages 4 — 8.

(I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Barnaby is a young sheep who loves life on the farm—but there’s one thing he fears: getting his wool sheared. As the dreaded clippers draw near, Barnaby’s fear takes over, and he runs away, embarking on an unforgettable adventure. 

Join Barnaby as he bravely flees into the unknown, seeking refuge in a dark cave. But with his wool growing thicker and his hunger gnawing at him, Barnaby soon realizes that freedom isn’t as sweet as he thought. He begins to miss the comfort of his home, the warmth of his flock, and the loving care of his shepherds. 

As the cold nights grow longer and loneliness settles in, Barnaby’s heart longs for the familiarity of his flock and the love of those who care for him. Just when he feels lost and alone, a familiar call breaks the silence. Could it be his shepherds searching for him? 

Filled with vibrant illustrations by Sayani Mukherjee, Barnaby the Runaway Sheep is a charming tale of courage, homecoming, and the unconditional love that awaits us all. This beautifully illustrated children’s book captures the essence of trust, faith, and friendship, making it a perfect addition to any family’s library. 

Why readers love Barnaby the Runaway Sheep

  • A relatable and courageous protagonist that young readers will love 
  • Beautiful, tender illustrations that bring the story to life 
  • A touching message of bravery, belonging, and the power of returning home 
  • Perfect for bedtime reading and Christian story time 
  • Inspiring themes of trust and faith, ideal for parents, pastors, and Christian educators

Maria Antonia learned to write her name at five years old and tried typing with an old manual typewriter at age eight. However, it was when she met the computer that she never turned back. Many years later, she still clickety-taps out her stories onto the screen, stories that have turned into picture books like The Christmas Elephant and Barnaby the Runaway Sheep. In addition to writing, Maria also enjoys sipping a nice cup of hot tea and capturing the world with her camera. She has lived in Sunny Spain, busy New York City, and currently resides in the Great White North of Canada.

Giveaway!

Author Maria Antonia is offering a copy of Barnaby The Runaway Sheep to one of my readers! To enter, just comment on this post. A winner will be chosen randomly on March 24. US residents only.

Top 10 Tuesday — Un-Reviewed

18 Feb

Happy Tuesday! This week bloggers are asked to fess up about unreviewed books. It is rare for me not to review a book I have read, and there is generally a really good reason to not mention them publicly. I’ll just leave that there. 😉 So what to post about then? Today’s list features books that will be read/reviewed in the next few weeks and months, so it technically fits the theme. Let me know if you have read them and what you think.

For more great book lists, please visit That Artsy Reader Girl.

Top Books Yet to Be Read/Reviewed

Barnaby The Runaway Sheep by Maria Antonia

Before The King by Heather Kaufman

Break My Fall by Lynn H. Blackburn

The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz

A Gardin Wedding by Rosey Lee

Guilty Until Innocent by Robert Whitlow

Midnight on The Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin

The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner

Of Love And Treason by Jamie Ogle

Water Grave by Mitchell S. Karnes