As Spring nears, "Consider the Lilies" - new children's book from Eerdmans' Publishing [Giveaway]

Consider the Lilies by Jennifer Grant & illustrated by Julianna Swaney

ISBN: 9780802855633
Hardcover $18.99
Eerdmans Young Readers

My thoughts:  This is an absolutely beautiful little children's book that goes though the color-wheel of nature in the varied flowering species that bloom all around us. The book is artistically delightful, flush with beautiful colors, and slightly whimsical drawings of the flowers and insects that enjoy their beauty. 

The lightly rhyming lyrical text walks the reader through this abundance of beauty as we consider the beauty of each flower and its color. The book concludes with the truth that God cares for all these "lilies" and He will surely do the same for each of us.

This is the second book in the "Consider" series. I reviewed Consider the Birds and have found both the Birds and Lilies books wonderful. I look forward to the third in the series: Consider the Night Sky later in 2026.

I recommend this series.

“And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” Matthew 6:29

About the book: Consider the Lilies by Jennifer Grant & illustrated by Julianna Swaney 

Learn about colors and God’s love in this picture book celebration of spring, with lyrical text by an award-winning author and gorgeous art from a #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator.

On a bright spring day, WHITE Queen Anne’s lace waves in the breeze. BLUE bellflowers bask in the sun. Hummingbirds dive down into RED poppies, and a ladybug hurries down the fronds of a GREEN fern. Don’t trip on that PINK primrose peeking through the cracks! Consider these flowers of the field—they live and grow just where they are supposed to be. Maybe God knows how to take care of us, too. 
Inspired by the timeless words of Luke 12 and Matthew 6, the second book in the Consider series invites children to discover colors in nature, the beauty of flowers in bloom, and the love of God. Jennifer Grant’s simple text and Julianna Swaney’s endearing art will encourage readers to slow down and marvel at the amazing world around them. A perfect read aloud for the spring and Easter seasons.

GIVEAWAY

Begins February 21

Ends March 21 @ 11:59 p.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.

Consider the Lilies by Jennifer Grant & illustrated by Julianna Swaney

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize book is provided and mailed directly to the winner by the publisher or their publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Review: AMBUSH OF THE HEART (Rocky Mountain Marshals #1) by Mary Connealy from Bethany House Publishing

 

When bandits strike in the wilderness, can love and faith overcome the shadows of danger?

ISBN: 9780764245992
Bethany House Pub. $18.99 USD

My thoughts:  I always look forward to reading one of Mary Connealy's books. I can count on them to be light hearted, sometimes tickle-your-funnybone funny, and always faith based. Her newest release is the beginning of a new series, "Rocky Mountain Marshals," and it has not disappointed.

Set in the rugged steeps of the Rocky Mountains when there was nothing there but the wilderness, factor in bad guys and good guys, some lovely ladies and handsome men, and a few mishaps and a bit of gunsmoke - well, it's a rocky read to be sure.

I found the cast of characters sometimes baffeling to my ability to keep them sorted out betwix the good and the bad, but then they weren't always bad when they were thought to be bad. Campfires. Chases. Accidents that happened. Lostness amidst peaks of wilderness left the reader speechless and bewildered. It all brought to mind the ruggedness of the mountains and the ruggedness of the people that settled and trod those hills.

Again, a delightful read and I am looking forward the the next release. 

About the book: As Owen Riley and his fellow Marshals escort Delaney Bridger, her brother, and an escaped prisoner to Fort Russell, a gang of outlaws ambushes them, bringing death and devastation to their party. With their lives on the line and the outlaws in pursuit, Owen directs the rest of his battered group to seek hiding at a remote ranch.

After the attack leaves her brother Boone seriously injured, Delaney helps Owen, nursing Boone and a wounded Marshal back to health while danger looms ever closer. Despite the threat at their heels, romance sparks between Owen and Delaney as they fight for survival on their perilous trek to the fort. Can they overcome the obstacles and find a future together?

Mary Connealy presents a riveting historical Frontier series starter of adventure, love, and high jinks in the rugged wilderness of 1870s Colorado. This Western romance features a determined Marshal, a courageous woman, forced proximity romance, and a risky journey of survival.

Read an excerpt - click here

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided by author or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. #MaryConnealy #BethanyHouse Order a copy at: BakerBookHouse.com

New books in The Mystery of the Ancient Map series: "The Brave Queen" & "The Big Fish" [Review & Giveway]

Children’s chapter books that celebrate faith, bravery, and biblical truth in an engaging, family-friendly way:  The Brave Queen and The Big Fish

Personally, I am not fond of retelling of Biblical stories especially with insertion of modern life characters into the story. That being said, I realize that sometimes for children reading these "we were there" type stories do tend to hold their interest. It is the responsibility of parents to clarify any errors in interpretation for their children. I listened to the available preview of the audio version of The Brave Queen and found it an exceptionally well done audio. Plus the story would surely capture the imagination of young listeners. The print copies of this "Mystery of the Ancient Map" series for The Brave Queen and The Big Fish are just the right length for early chapter book readers. I love the large print and the abundance of illustrations. These are NOT a picture books. They are early chapter books for the established reader. Of note in The Brave Queen, at the end of the book young Peter encounters the "Captain" who challenges Peter. Peter "sees" that it is Satan and calls the Captain "Satan." This is a bit mature for this age reader and I don't see the wisdom of its inclusion in the story. Another character insertion that is worthy of note is Michael, the archangel. Children need to learn the role of Angels in God's plan for our lives and how they watch over and protect us. In these books, Michael actually appears to them with wings and a sword. I see both of these books as fun reads for early readers and they will surely promote interest in the Bible and events and people of the Bible. Both stories are from the Old Testament. The Brave Queen is from the story of Esther in the Bible; and in The Big Fish, the story of Jonah being swallowed by the fish. Both stories are opportunities to learn of God's plan and protection for us. I recommend these for families with early chapter book readers (younger read-aloud-to-me listeners, too) but with parental caution to use guidance on some aspects of the stories. The Brave Queen: Book 1 The Brave Queen is the first book in the new Mystery of the Ancient Map series that expands the world of The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls, but it can be thoroughly enjoyed by readers not familiar with Peter, Mary, and Hank’s previous adventures. Peter and Mary are getting ready for a new school year after a summer of time travelling with Great Uncle Solomon’s hidden scrolls, but life seems very boring after all their adventures. Then they get an invitation to go to Israel where Great Uncle Solomon is getting a Lifetime Achievement Award in Archaeology. During Great Uncle Solomon’s acceptance speech, a mysterious woman slips Peter an ancient map with red Xs marking different locations. When they investigate the map, the kids discover a new hidden scroll that takes them to Persia, back to the time of Queen Esther, where they meet Mordecai, the evil Haman, and Queen Esther, and try to solve the secret of the scroll. The Brave Queen: Buy on Amazon Follows the events of Esther: 1-10. Reminds readers that, like Esther, God has a plan for their lives. Is the first book in a chapter book series perfect for emerging readers ages 6-9. Includes illustrations throughout, bringing all the action and adventure to life. Great gift for readers who love The Magic Tree House and I Survived series.

The Big Fish: Book 2 The Big Fish is the second book in the new Mystery of the Ancient Map series that expands the world of The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls, but it can be thoroughly enjoyed by readers not familiar with Peter, Mary, and Hank’s previous adventures. Great Uncle Solomon takes Peter, Mary, and Hank on a train trip to investigate a new red X on their ancient map. It leads them to the sea, where they discover a new hidden scroll that takes them back in time, and they stowaway on a ship. When a huge storm comes up, they meet Jonah and end up being swallowed with him by a giant fish! It’s an adventure unlike any other as they journey to Nineveh, encounter the Enemy, and try to solve the secret of the scroll. 🌈 The Big Fish: Buy on Amazon Follows the events of Jonah: 1-3. Reminds readers that, like Jonah, in times of trouble they can pray to God. Is the second book in a chapter book series perfect for emerging readers ages 6-9. Includes illustrations throughout, bringing all the action and adventure to life. Great gifts for readers who love The Magic Tree House and I Survived series.  👑🦈👑🦈👑🦈👑🦈👑 DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone.  #mysteryoftheancientmaps #mjthomas #secretofthehiddenscrolls #hiddenscrolls @zonderkidz @themikejthomas

The Odyssey: A Graphic Novel by Gareth Hinds (Graphic Author & Illustrator)

The Odyssey: A Graphic Novel by Gareth Hinds, Graphic Author & Illustrator

ISBN: 9780763642686
Candlewick Press $18.99 USD

My thoughts:  "The Odyssey" is a heavy weight read. It's old. It's ancient. And typically, a "comic book reader" or lover of graphic novels isn't going to read The Odyssey. But perhaps the strength of the story and the characters, the epic living of ancient times can be captured in graphic form and whet the appetite for a serious read of the real "The Odyssey."

My review is of a paperback copy that is quite hefty. Soon to be published will be a Deluxe Hardcover edition and likely a collector's book. The story has love-story written into it and as such the graphics do tend toward the adult reader. This is not a young child's book. It is more a slip-into-reading-classics introduction.

That being said, The Odyssey is an action-packed, boy friendly read that may capture YA readers' attention. The graphic drawings done with broadly sweeping, articulate pencil swipes and muted washes of color capture the action and Grecian life of ancient times. Surreal in detail and story, this graphic retelling of The Odyssey may be accepted favorably by followers of the classics with new interpretation of the story imagery.

About the book: A New York Times bestseller!

With bold imagery and an ear tuned to the music of Homer’s epic poem, award-winning graphic artist Gareth Hinds reinterprets the ancient classic as it’s never been told before. A New York Times bestseller, now in a sumptuous collectible edition with new cover design, gold foil, and painted edges.

“Gareth Hinds brings The Odyssey to life in a masterful blend of art and storytelling. Vivid and exciting, this graphic novel is a worthy new interpretation of Homer’s epic.” —Rick Riordan, author of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series

Fresh from his triumphs in the Trojan War, Odysseus, king of Ithaca, wants nothing more than to return home to his family. Instead, he offends the sea god, Poseidon, who dooms him to years of shipwreck and wandering. Battling man-eating monsters, violent storms, and the supernatural seductions of sirens and sorceresses, Odysseus will need all his strength and cunning—and a little help from Mount Olympus—to make his way home and seize his kingdom from the schemers who seek to wed his queen and usurp his throne. Gareth Hinds masterfully reinterprets a story of heroism, adventure, and high action that has been told and retold for more than 2,500 years—though never quite like this.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. 

You Always Belong by Jinger & Jeremy Vuolo & illustrated by Sara Romero [Review #sponsored @Wpublishing ]

This is a #sponsored review and post for @Wpublishing.

ISBN: 9780310178552
Zonderkidz $19.99 USA
Where to buy

My thoughts:  It is hard to hear spoken to you, "Run along now. You don't belong here." But it does happen. It's strongly akin to being told "you're ugly" or "you're stupid." And sadly it is sometimes said because your social status is not considered good enough or because of your skin color or race.

In this delightful children's book from Christian publisher, Zonderkidz, the illustrations are simply charming and capture the essence of childhood along with a bit of fantasy swirls and sprinkle of stars that lend to the charm but are not part of the story. Love the illustrations!

The story, in a "poem style" that doesn't really have good rhyme and cadence, is beautifully done and transmits the wonder of our belonging to God who created us and that we will always belong to God.

The story roams through various areas and activities of childhood where one might encounter the feeling of being inferior or not part of the group. There is really no "rough and tough stuff" in this book, but then we all know that being "put down" and feeling left out or inferior is not always in harsh circumstances. Sometimes it is sly and even overt. The teaching in this delightful, and oft repeated refrain, is to remember "You always belong!".

I love this sweet, delightful book.

About the book: Is your child striving for perfection or seeking the approval of others? You Always Belong, inspired by the bestselling nonfiction book People Pleaser, is a beautiful book that helps children understand their worth isn’t based on pleasing others or being perfect. Written by New York Times bestselling author Jinger Duggar Vuolo and Jeremy Vuolo, this book gently explores how God loves us unconditionally, how we always belong in his love, and how it’s OK to have boundaries and even to say no sometimes.

Perfect for children ages 4 and up, You Always Belong encourages kids to ask, “Who am I?” and find their true worth and purpose in being a beloved child of God. 

Through engaging storytelling, your child will learn:

• God’s unconditional love.
• That their worth comes from being his child, not from their performance.
• How to break the cycle of habits, mindsets, and peer pressure that self-sabotage.
• The importance of obedience, self-discipline, and character-building, while understanding these are expressions of kindness and love.

Purchase your copy - click here

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions expressed in the review are mine, alone.

Jesus Loves You More by Hunter Beless & illustrated by Amy Grimes ❤️ [Review & Giveaway]

What better way to celebrate Valentine's day than to teach children about the Love Jesus holds for them?

ISBN: 97983384503514
B&H Kids/Lifeway
Boardbook | $14.99 USA

My thoughts:  This sweet board book presents the infinite depth of the love of Jesus for the child. Instilling a sense of such depth of love early in the life the the child provides a wellspring of comfort that endures through the years.

In gentle rhyme, all sorts of scenes are presented in which this love is measured. I remember my own children expressing their love by "the whole sky full" because they sensed the vast expanse of the sky was immeasurable. Or perhaps, "to the Moon and back" because they realized it was far, far away. They were saying how much and how vast their love for us was. In this sweet little book, the lines tell the young child that Jesus loves them more than is comprehensible.

The book not only speaks of Jesus' love in relatable and measurable terms, it also has a strong message of Jesus dying on the cross because of His great love for us and redemption.

So while this is a good book for Valentine's Day celebration of love, it is invaluable in teaching the story of reddemptive love. Perhaps a good choice for Easter gifting, too.

About the book: I love you to the moon and back, but Jesus loves you more.

In this beautiful board book, children are asked to imagine the biggest and farthest and deepest parts of creation—as high as eagles soar and as loud as lions roar. That’s how much we love them! But their hearts will also hear the more important message that Christ gave His life for them because He loves them even more!

Perfect for bedtime or anytime, the book’s whimsical art and rhyme create a reading experience that children (and parents) will treasure, taking them up to the clouds, into outer space, and down into the sea, but never away from Jesus’s love. 

❤️ GIVEAWAY ❤️

Begin February 10

End March 12 @ 11:59 p.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.

JESUS LOVES YOU MORE by Hunter Beless & Illustrated by Amy Grimes

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by publisher or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.View a Sample - click here 

Beloved "Guess How Much I Love You" new book release.... Out & About In 100 Words (Illustrated & Written by Anita Jeram) ❤️

ISBN: 9781536244328
Board book ~ $12.99 US
Candlewick Press

My thoughts:  Nutbrown Hare's love for Little Nutbrown Hare is shown as they visit various locations - woods, oceans, winter scenes, and see the differences each have for Little Nutbrown Hare to discover. Words distinct to each scene are introduced. The illustrations are beautifully executed showing nature, whimsy, and the sweet characteristics of the fabulously loving "Guess How Much I Love You" bunnies.

The best scene of all is "home," and then closing with "home is wherever you are." A statement of endearing sweetness.

Another book to add to your collection of "Guess How Much I Love You" treasures. 

About the book: Guess how many words you can learn together with Big and Little Nutbrown Hare! The beloved pair turn to naming things in the natural world for their youngest fans.

As Little Nutbrown Hare hops across some stones in a river, he sees so many interesting things—fish and swans, an otter and beaver, a willow tree and reeds, the water itself. Meanwhile, at a farm full of animals, Little Nutbrown Hare enthuses about all the new babies—a hen with her chicks, a cow with her calf, a horse with a foal, a proud pig and her piglets. Whether it’s a pond full of ducklings and frogs and lily pads, or a meadow bursting with bees and butterflies and buttercups, the simple presentation of named objects and sweetly inviting illustrations offer an ideal setting for little ones to discover what nature holds—and to learn the words for what they see. A spinoff to the family classic Guess How Much I Love You, this is a read-aloud that will beg for many return visits.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick Press to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.