Indescribable Atlas Adventures: An Explorer's Guide to Geography, Animals, & Cultures Through God's Amazing World (Indescribable Kids) by Louie Giglio, illustrators Nicola Anderson & Lynsey Wilson

With more than 50 infographic maps, this illustrated world atlas for kids from bestselling author Louie Giglio will stretch your children's understanding of the world as they discover more about God, science, and His amazing world!

Indescribable Atlas Adventures offers a self-guided tour for your favorite explorer throughout the seven continents and over 50 countries. Easy-to-read maps, more than 1,500 facts, and a world map that helps kids identify each continent and country will help your child to think globally and discover new insights into God's incredible creation. Each map includes:

• an overview of each country's population, languages, and prominent features;
• key facts about the country's capital cities; neighboring countries; and the national bird, tree, and dish;
• notable people and their amazing achievements;
• the country's terrain, climate, wildlife, contributions to space exploration, cultural hallmarks, and Christian faith traditions; and
• biblical and inspirational pieces, like devotional thoughts, prayers, and Bible verses that highlight how amazing God and His world are.

Indescribable Atlas Adventures is for ages 6 to 10 and spotlights several fascinating ecosystems, like the Sahara, Amazon, and Great Barrier Reef. This book has a large trim size to help kids explore fun details on each page and is a perfect "my first atlas of the world" gift for curious kids.

My thoughts: I really look forward to each of the "Indescribable" children's books written by or under the guidance of Louie Giglio. They provide an entertaining resource for children's educational pursuits. They don't have to meld with a particular curriculum. They are simply books from which children delight to read and learn. They are on-topic resources that are dependable for articulating researched information.

In the Indescribable Atlas Adventures: An Explorer's Guide to..... readers will explore the continents and the countries. They will learn historical, geographic, and ecological information. Parents should realize that this is not an in depth atlas. It is a children's book intended to introduce and educate the young mind. It is delightfully attractive, beautifully colored, insightful, educational, factual. The book is large but not too large or heavy for a young child to handle. It isn't a toddler's book though kindergartners through about fifth graders will benefit from it.

As an atlas it does not show specific areas such as mountain ranges, capitals, rivers, etc. It is generalized and provides short factoids about the pictured area and/or components. Being a faith-based publication, it shares short encouragements toward faith as well as pointing out historic Biblical events or persons when appropriate. Generally speaking, this is a "soft-atlas" that introduces children to the world and is faith-based in intention.

I highly recommend this and other works from Tommy Nelson publications in the "Indescribable Kids" line of books.

Where to purchase: 
https://bit.ly/IndescribableKidsFGM

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

The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson

ISBN: 9780800744724
Hardcover $17.99 US

My thoughts:  I look forward to author Melody Carlson's annual Christmas novella. This year's book, The Christmas Tree Farm, has a gentle charm that takes the reader to the heart of two families living in Oregon. With easily readable writing, Ms. Carlson fleshes out each of the characters so that the reader feels as though they are long-time acquaintances or friends. 

The setting is two adjacent farms - or rather a farm and a piece of land. The Christmas tree farm has been devastated by fire along with much of the area. We've all seen the destructive and massive fires that have raged in California, Oregon, and Canada. So it isn't hard to image that this tree farm was partially destroyed by one of those raging fires.

Personalities clash. Old teen loves are rekindled by settled, mature adults. Conflict over farm usage. Conflict over other issues both personal and business.

All in all, this is a wonderful little book to relax and read through. Not too "Christmassy" but it takes place during the season. And mostly it's a wonderful little book about family.

About the book: When Madison McDowell returns from several years teaching overseas, she has high hopes of picking up where she left off at her family's Christmas tree farm in Oregon. But between damage from a recent wildfire and the neglect due to her sister Addie's unwillingness to invest, the farm is in sad shape. In fact, Addie is intent on selling the property. And to top it off, her former high school flame, the now-widowed Gavin Thompson, has plans to break Madison's heart again by turning his neighboring property into a dusty, noisy dirt bike track for his daughter.

With the odds stacked against her, Madison decides there's only one thing to double down on her dreams. It will take a ton of hard work--and some help from an unlikely ally--to save the farm she so dearly loves. But it may take a miracle to restore her relationship with her sister.

Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson charms and delights with this uplifting Christmas story full of old memories and new beginnings.

DISCLOSURE: Revell, a Division of Baker Publishing Group, provided me a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

"WHITE BIRD" (the movie) from the best-selling author of "Wonder" - in Theaters October 4 [Review & Giveaway]

A Story of Overcoming and Kindness Set During the Horrors of WWII

Take away from the movie..... Be Brave. Choose Kind. You forget many things in life. But you never forget kindness. 

WHITE BIRD is a deeply moving coming of-age story and testament to the courage it takes to extend kindness and love during the harshest of times.

Synopsis: From the world of Wonder, which sparked a movement to "choose kind," comes the inspirational next chapter: WHITE BIRD. 

Struggling to fit in at his new school after being expelled for his treatment of Auggie Pullman, Julian (Bryce Gheisar) is visited by his grandmother (Helen Mirren) and is transformed by the compassionate and heroic story of her attempts to escape Nazi-occupied France during WWII. From the director of Finding Neverland, WHITE BIRD reminds us to be brave and choose kind.

My review:  Often movies about the WWII period are filled with violence, horror, and the unspeakable evil, etc. and that was definitely the way things were in Europe during that time. In "White Bird" we see that the horror is there, but it is downplayed; yet you become emotionally involved in the "this is it" that is occurring. The story's telling is set in modern day with actual depiction showing what happened to school age teens and pre-teens during that time.

As a "coming of age" story, this is gently told. Sheer loveliness. As a story of kindness the magnitude of grace and kindness is huge. 

The acting is superb. The filming top-grade. The story emotionally impactful and uplifting. This is a story of moral goodness overcoming evil. Of kindness overcoming brutish evil. Of miracles that occur in the daily living of life.

Don't miss this one! 

GIVEAWAY

$10 Amazon Gift Card (ecard)

Begins October 4

Ends October 15 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. Winner's gift card prize is provided via email by publicist on behalf of the movie promotion. Chat With Vera is not responsible for fulfillment or transmittal. Secret word: kindness

Little learners explore the animal kingdom with picture books [Review & Giveaway]

 🦦🐄🐙🦜🐒

Learn all about the amazing animal kingdom with books on animal tools, animals that can do math, how the octopus makes its den, farm animals, the amazing swifts, and how humans have impacted animal pathways!

The Den That Octopus Built by Randi Sonenshine & illustrated by Anne Hunter | Ages 4 to 8

My thoughts:  Loosely following the style and rhyme of "The House that Jack Built," the author gently takes the reader or young listener through the life cycle of a female Octopus. As a young octopus, she builds her house, lays her eggs, hatches and protects. Then the young leave her care and go in search of a place to build their own den (or place to "nest").

Soft colors and gentle illustrations give a dreamy look to the undersea life of the octopus.

Educational back matter provides information for additional learning  about the fascinating octopus. A short glossary is included along with the author's notes to further educate about the sea and environment of the octopus.

About the book: Follow one of the ocean’s most mysterious animals in this warm but candid look at its dramatic life cycle, from the creators of The Nest That Wren Built.

Look What I Found on the Farm by Moira Butterfield & illustrated by Jesus Verona | Ages 2 to 5

My thoughts:  Children love farms and all the animals. So a visit to the farm always excites and delights the little ones. In Look What I found on the Farm, children see farm animals as well as pets. This book will appeal to two year olds because of the pictures but the information in the text actually will appeal to upward five to maybe eight year olds. 

A delightful, entertaining, educational book that has adorable illustrations. It is packed with so much fun and learning.

About the book: Open your senses to a world of wonder by taking a walk through a farm!

Super Swifts by Justin Anderson & illustrated by Clover Robin | Ages 4 to 8

My thoughts:  I totally enjoyed this non-fiction book. I find it suitable for ages 4 to 8 and it will simply amaze readers. This tiny bird travels probably farther and without landing than any other bird species. His journey from the south of Africa to Northern Europe, China,  and Siberia is fascinating. They know when to migrate and where to go. They don't really sleep during this long journey. They travel 500+ miles a day.

I totally approve this fascinating book.

About the book: An evocative nonfiction narrative follows the swifts on their epic journey north, from the jungles of Africa to nesting sites in Europe.

Find Out About Animal Tools by Martin Jenkins & illustrated by Jane McGuinness | Ages 3 to 7

My thoughts:  Learning how birds, fish, and animals use various "tools" to do tasks is eye opening. I think the most fascinating to me is the bird that harvests "string" from a plant and then "sews" or "weaves" leaves together to make a nest. Other critters use stones to crack open eggs or bash open shell fish (clams, etc.) against a rock that they hold on their chest. Secret word: work

Simple, direct illustrations show each animal or critter in its element and show them utilizing their own skillful and ingenious tool use.

I think this is a delightful non-fiction title for little ones and is age appropriate for about 3 years to 7 years old. I recommend.

About the book: Otters that break open shells on their chests? Crows that make hooks to snare grubs? Discover the surprising (and sometimes sneaky!) ways that animals use tools.

GIVEAWAY

Winner's Choice of 2 titles reviewed

Begins October 3

Ends October 31 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Help for the North Carolina & Tennessee disaster areas (edited #2) - more

This post is simply for the purpose of assisting rescue efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane (tropical storm) Helene that left historic devastation in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee..

I have found that the Facebook account North Carolina Weather Authority is proving to be a good source of phone numbers, links, organizations to help locate stranded or missing persons. 

And in locating those needing assistance in airlifting persons from dangerous and isolated areas. Providing needed food, water, diapers, medicines. Getting folks on oxygen to sources.

Remember 911 and how the boaters of NYC and surrounds rescued so many people???? What a miracle that was! Well, I believe I'm seeing another miracle. I'm seeing on FB where private airplane and helicopter pilots and owners are coming together to ferry provisions, rescue folks, ferry survivors to safety. Amazing. They're coming from far away from the mountains of NC to help.

OPERATION AIRDROP:  https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=Operation%20Airdrop  

Part of this "AIRtilla" is this helio-pilot from Nebraska https://www.facebook.com/garrett.mitchell.927 - He says the helicopters are working out of Hickory airport.

From Southern Living magazine..... This North Carolina College Student Is Saving Lives With His Weather Reports In The Wake Of Hurricane Helene click here        

From NEWSWEEK on North Carolina Weather Authority - click here

Virginia (Daughters of the Lost Colony #4) by Shannon McNear from Barbour Publishing

ISBN: 9781636099279
Barbour Publishing $15.99

My thoughts:  The author, Shannon McNear, is deservedly recognized as a writer with authenticity of the historical novel, especially that of the discovery and exploration period of American history. Carefully research, this series on the Lost Colony captures the essence of the period when the shores of North Carolina were populated with explorers and their wives intent on establishing a new life for themselves and a new world in which to live. Also captured is the essence of the natives of the area who lived in families, tribes, and "cities" of their own making and who were at odds with one another; and who were definitely at odds with the new commers from across the great sea (Atlantic Ocean).

McNear's research is thorough, though the material is certainly fleshed out with the author's own imaginative plausible account of what may have transpired on those North Carolina shores in the days when the first child born on those shores, Virginia Dare, was a blossoming teen.

The impact the previous encounters with earlier Spanish explorers rings with harbored anger, distrust, and fear by both the natives and the English who are settling in the area.

I found the series, and especially "Virginia" the concluding book, particularly interesting. We can't truly know the details of this period, but what is recorded gives a start to understanding. Speculation as to what happened to those early settlers is just that - speculation. The author's work is exceptionally good and though it is still a work of fiction, I believe it gives insight into life in those early days on the shores of my beloved North Carolina.

About the Book: The White Doe of the Outer Banks Grows into Womanhood

Return to the “what if” questions surrounding the Lost Colony and explore the possible fate of Virginia Dare--the first English child born in the New World. What happened to her after her grandfather John White returned to England and the colony he established disappeared into the mists of time? Legends abound, but she was indeed a real girl who, if she survived to adulthood, must have also become part of the legacy that is the people of the Outer Banks. In the spring of 1602 by English reckoning, "Ginny," as she is called by family and friends, is fourteen and firmly considered a grown woman by the standards of the People. For her entire life she has watched the beautiful give-and-take of the Kurawoten and other native peoples with the English who came from across the ocean. She's enjoyed being the darling of both English and Kurawoten alike--but a stirring deep inside her will not be put to rest.

One careless decision lands her and fellow “first baby” Henry Harvie, along with their Croatoan friend Redbud, in enemy hands. Carried away into Mangoac territory, out of the reach of Manteo and the others, she must learn who she truly is—not only the daughter of Elinor and Ananias Dare but also a child of the One True God, who gives her courage to go wherever the path of her life might lead.

Author Shannon McNear portrays history with vivid authenticity gained from extensive research. 

Also in the series:

• Elinor* by Shannon McNear (Book 1 – Daughters of the Lost Colony)
• Mary by Shannon McNear (Book 2 – Daughters of the Lost Colony)
• Rebecca* by Shannon McNear (Book 3 – Daughters of the Lost Colony)

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing on behalf of the author to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. *indicates Chat With Vera Review

Home Is Right Where You Are (Inspired by Psalm 23) by Ruth Chou Simons

ISBN: 9781400244393
Hardcover $19.99 US
Purchase Here

My thoughts:  Through the centuries, Christians have recited and taken deeply to heart the comforting words of Psalm 23. It comforts, sooths, assures, restores, guides us during our darkest moments. Often it is one of the earliest Scriptures memorized and has been set to music many times. It settles us and brings our heart and very being home to God.

In this beautiful children's book, the author brings the child's mind and heart further to being at home with God.

The substance, or depth of God's message of comfort in Psalm 23 is gently spoken in the text of this beautiful book as a "parent" gently speaks to her "child" about where their home is right then at that moment and later as they journey through life. Their home is right with God.

This book will speak volumes to any parent, grandparent, or caregiver that reads it to a child. The reader's heart and mind will be refreshed to be reminded that God's presence is ever there and everywhere with the Child of God. He, our God, is our Home.

I highly, highly recommend this book. 

About the book: This enchanting book is inspired by Psalm 23 and delivers a profound message of comfort and peace, reminding us that with God, home is always right where you are.

In Home Is Right Where You Are, Ruth Chou Simons combines her lyrical text with whimsical illustrations to take readers on a comforting journey. Drawing from the words she has shared with her own six children, Ruth’s tender narrative and captivating art reassure families that no matter where life leads, the Lord keeps us close and provides for all our needs.

Why You’ll Love This Book:

• Comforting Assurance: Reassures children with the truth that God is always with them, guiding and providing.
• Joyful Learning: Teaches that God is the source of joy, blessings, and adventure.
• Beautiful Art: Delights with captivating illustrations that bring the message to life.
• Soothe Anxious Minds: Offers comfort through the assurance of God’s presence and provision.

This beautiful children’s book is Ruth Chou Simons’ first foray into children’s literature and combines her moving art with God’s promises to create a treasure that families will cherish.

Purchase your copy (or copies for gifting) - Click Here

Note: Free gifts when you order at "Buy Here"

WHO IS THE AUTHOR? - Ruth Chou Simons is a Wall Street Journal bestselling and award-winning author of several books and Bible studies, including Grace Laced, Beholding and Becoming, and When Strivings Cease. She is an artist, entrepreneur, podcaster, and speaker, using each of these platforms to sow the Word of God into people's hearts. Through her online shoppe at GraceLaced.com and her social media community, Simons shares her journey of God's grace intersecting daily life with word and art. Ruth and her husband, Troy, are grateful parents to six boys—their greatest adventure.

Vera's Note: I personally count it a privilege to review this book on Chat With Vera. The content is assuring, comforting, pure faith-based.

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