"Behold the Hummingbird!" & "About Hummingbirds: A Guide for Children" books to introduce children to birding [Review & Giveaway]

Behold the Hummingbird by Suzanne Slade & illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez

My thoughts:  A simply beautiful book that will bring the beautiful hummingbird family of birds to children and teach and delight as they turn page after page of gorgeousness. Simple text in large print on one side for the young readers and listeners with more indepth information on the adjacent page to further educate the readers. 

What a delightful way to engage children and help them understand these beautiful and delight creatures. Be prepared, though, they will want to plant hummingbird attracting plants and place bird feeders around to draw these awesome birds to their own yards.

A delightful addition for home libraries as well as school and public libraries.

About the book: Lyrical text and gorgeous illustrations take flight in this exploration of the tiny, gorgeous hummingbirds and its astonishing abilities.

Hummingbirds are tiny and pretty, so you might find yourself taking them for granted. But these little birds are remarkable, fierce, and talented. In Behold the Hummingbird, readers will learn about species that can hover like a helicopter, fly backwards and upside down, and consume half their body weight in a single day.

About Hummingbirds: A Guide for Children by Cathryn Sill & illustrated by John Sill

My thoughts:  The "Sill combo" of author and illustrator has brought another beautiful and captivating study of the natural world to children in this About Hummingbirds: A Guide for Children book. (Click HERE for more of my reviews of The Sill's books.)

The illustrations are simply beautiful and accurately capture the subject, the hummingbirds, and their particular environment. Deftly drawn and painted, each illustration has a special charm to draw the reader's interest. The text is simply written for young preschoolers as well as elementary grades. The back matter presents more indepth information and a short glossary. 

Another delightful book for bird lovers as well as libraries of all types. Secret word: nectar

About the book: An award-winning first glimpse into the world of hummingbirds.

In this addition to the acclaimed About... series, author and educator Cathryn Sill uses simple, easy-to-understand language to teach children what hummingbirds are, how they look, how they move, what they eat, and where they live.

GIVEAWAY

Behold the Hummingbird 

(1 book, 1 winner)

Begins May 17

Ends June 14 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

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DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies 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 the publisher or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

The world beyond us... "I'm a Black Hole" and "Cosmic Collisions: Asteroid vs Comet" STEM Reading (Mom's Rock Giveaway Hop) [Review & Giveaway]

Scroll down for terrific giveaways you can enter.
Bloghop hosted by MamaTheFox

I’m a Black Hole (Meet the Universe) by Dr. Eve M. Vavagiakis from MIT Kids Press

My thoughts:   Simplistically written in rhyming text, a child can envision himself in space and contemplating a black hole. The narration states that black holes are condensed matter or collapsed mater and are extremely dense. Also, the idea that a black hole can swallow anything within the boundaries of its "event horizon" is presented, but our young space traveler need not worry because he can't get close enough to be swallowed up.

Truly an interesting introduction to the mysteries of the universe and what a black hole is. This will make an interesting read for older elementary children as well as middle grade readers. The book's back matter has terms defined and explained a bit more comprehensively yet still quite elementary.

A good addition to home libraries for space-minded readers and for school and classroom libraries. MIT Kids Press does such a good job of science education for young readers.

About the book: Journey to the event horizon in this playful, mind-bending introduction to one of our universe’s most mysterious marvels—narrated by a black hole itself.

Lurking at the center of our galaxy and in the farthest reaches of space are black holes. Once unseeable and unknowable, these cosmic devourers—sometimes born from the death of stars—swallow even light itself. What exactly is a black hole? And how do we even know they exist? In a kid-friendly, rhyming narration, the elusive astronomical object introduces itself as both a behemoth star-eater and a shy, rarely-spotted phenomena. Physicist Eve M. Vavagiakis’s approachable text is paired with Jessica Lanan’s imaginative depictions of a young astronaut venturing where no human has gone before, along with stunning renderings of our fascinating narrator and the final frontier. Endnotes expand, spread by spread, on the fascinating science behind black holes and the cutting-edge experiments used to study them. This second entry in the Meet the Universe series will light readers’ curiosity and have them racing to discover more secrets hidden among the stars.

Cosmic Collisions: Asteroid vs. Comet by Dr. Marc J. Kuchner from MIT Kids Press

My thoughts:  The image of a cosmic collision involving Earth and an asteriod is mind boggling and terrifying. In this book Cosmic Collisions: Asteroid vs. Comet, the author describes the opponents - Asteroid vs. Comet - and the lead up to their impending battle or collision. The reader will learn what an asteroid is, it's orbit, it's composition, and it's possible impact on Earth. Information about a Comet is also provided about the Comet's composition, speed, orbit, and the impact it's collision would have on whatever it collided. 

The reader is given information and then asked to determine what the outcome of an Asteroid vs. Comet collision would be. It might surprise the reader to learn the real outcome.

This is another interesting science read from MIT Kids Press and one that will stretch the imagination and comprehension of young readers.

About the book: What happens when two massive hunks of hurtling space debris slam into each other? Welcome to round one in the Cosmic Collisions series—an exciting children’s debut from an expert astrophysicist.

There’s a comet speeding in from the outer solar system, and it’s about to slam into an asteroid. Who will be left standing after this interplanetary smackdown? The pockmarked asteroid, a veteran fighter who’s already seen some action? Or the dazzling comet, with its incredible velocity and a tail that stretches millions of miles? Kicking off a dynamic series on cosmic collisions, Asteroid vs. Comet starts by comparing the two opponents, then offers hints and context to encourage readers to use real science to form a hypothesis. Action-packed full-color illustrations with a graphic, comic-book feel will attract reluctant readers and kids who love smash-and-crash, along with budding scientists. Curious readers can find back matter addressing the question of fact versus fiction, how to become a citizen scientist, and comets and asteroids in the news. Secret word: collision

GIVEAWAY

I'm A Black Hole (1 copy, 1 winner)

Begins May 16

Ends June 1 @ 12:00 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only

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MamatheFox and all participating blogs are not held responsible for sponsors who fail to fulfill their prize obligations. Click links below to enter other giveaways.

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

Kregel's Bible centric books help toddlers & preschools understand Scripture [Review & Giveaway]

My Toddler Bible (Timeless Stories for Little Ones) board book ISBN: 9780825448669

Buy it on Kregel Publishing

My thoughts:  An adorable little one's board book with a convenient handy handle for their ease in carrying about. The illustrations are attention grabbing, fun, brightly colorful, and aid in understanding the story.

The text is lengthy enough to tell the story adequately for the intendended age audience with a vocabulary that is not "dumbed down for age." 

Kregel Publishing's children's books have always been winners for engagement, accuracy, design, and lasting quality. I highly recommend.

About the book: A perfect Bible for little hands

Filled with rich and colorful illustrations and simple text faithful to the Bible, My Toddler Bible is perfect for children ages 1 to 3. The twenty-eight Bible stories include Scripture references and are taken equally from both the Old and New Testaments to form a complete arc of God's story.

Toddlers will love the built-in handle to carry their Bible with them everywhere--including church! And parents and grandparents will love that its compact form and bright pictures will inspire their little ones to engage with Scripture from an early age.

My Bigger Search and Find Bible ISBN: 9780825448478

Buy it on Kregel Publishing

My thoughts:  Children simply love search and find books and educators (and parents) love them, too. They engage the child with the book and the content of the book. True, some of the items the child is to find have very little to do with the story, it keeps them engaged. In My Bigger Search & Find Bible children journey quickly through the Bible with brief encounters with characters and stories. While doing so, they learn of God's being bigger than their problems. As an aside, you'll note that each story page opens out to four times the book's size. Again "bigger." 

I highly recommend this engaging search and find Bible story book for children. Again Kregel Publications has a winner.

About the book: Fun-filled way for kids to learn how BIG the love of God is...

From the very first page, this fun book is designed to help kids ages 4 to 6 understand that God's love for us is bigger than we can imagine!

Each page expands to four times its size. And in every colorful Bible scene, a child can search and find Bible friends, animals, and other items for even more interactive fun. Secret word: Bible

Packed with cheerful illustrations and a world of play, children will want to come back to this unique Bible over and over, fostering a love of God's Word and a new understanding of his expansive love.

GIVEAWAY

2 Children's Bible books from Kregel Publications

Begins May 3

Ends June 1 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

The Encountering God Study Bible NKJV (Review & Giveaway]

Encounter God through the Scriptures as you are guided by the wisdom and experience of the Blackaby family. Product page.

The deepest need of every human heart is to encounter God. To meet with God, to be changed by Him, and to become more like Him as a result. For decades, the Blackaby family has dedicated their ministry to helping believers address this deepest need. Now you can learn from their insights to experience deeper encounters with God as you develop a regular routine of Bible reading and study in the Encountering God Study Bible.

The Encountering God Study Bible is the crowning work of the Blackabys. Featuring their trusted approach to Bible study, explanatory notes, word studies, biblical character sketches, historical encounters with lives of exemplary faith, articles highlighting the creative nature of God, and other articles defending the faith, you will be encouraged to see that you can encounter God in His Word—and that He wants to encounter you through it.

Features include:

• Presentation page allows you to personalize this special gift by recording a memory or note
• Encounter Notes highlighting how God might choose to encounter you in His Word
• Articles highlighting the creative nature of God by Daniel Blackaby
• Articles defending the lasting truths of the faith by Mike Blackaby
• Rich explanatory notes explaining ideas, events, people, and places in the text to make the meaning clear
• Word studies, character studies, and biographical sketches of church history figures all written by members of the Blackaby family
• Word studies shed light on key terms and important meaning from the original Greek and Hebrew
• Character profiles give overviews of key men and women in the Bible
• Biographical sketches give examples of people who faithfully encountered and followed God in their life
• Book introductions setting the scene for each biblical book and its importance for encountering God
• Timeline of the biblical narrative for a better understanding of how historical and biblical events fit throughout history
• A succinct harmony of the Gospels details the life and ministry of Jesus in chronological order showing where each event and teaching occur in the Gospels
• Chart of the prophecies fulfilled by Jesus as Messiah provides Old Testament prophecies and where they have been fulfilled in the New Testament
• Reading plans guiding you through the entire Bible in a year
• Center-column reference set allow you to find related passages quickly and easily
• Full NKJV concordance provides an alphabetical listing of important passages by key words
• Words of Christ in red quickly identify verses spoken by Jesus
• Index to easily find word studies, character studies, historical encounters, apologetic, and aesthetic articles
• Ribbon markers make it easy to navigate and keep track of where you were reading (Secret word: Holiness)
• Clear and readable NKJV Comfort Print® in a 9-point print size

Click Here to purchase Encountering God Study Bible NKJV
Several bindings to choose from.

My thoughts: Firstly, my translation preference is the King James Version but this Encountering God Study Bible in the New King James Version (NKJV) runs a very close second in my preferences. The bible (in black Leathersoft™) is absolutely beautiful.The type font is a new one from Thomas Nelson and is classic and so very readable. Readability is not only in size of font, but also in the way the font is shaped and clarity of the font. This one is superb. The layout of the verses is also classic and makes it particularly easy for me as a lifetime KJV version reader.

It is wonderfully endowed with study aids that are easy to access and understand. There is an abundance of study assistance given in this Bible to aid the reader and they are clearly laid out. The Words of Jesus in red ink is another helpful asset. 

Inserted on the pages, and in clear, readable print, are various study aids. Example: 1) Character Study 2 Chr. 3:2 Absalom, and 2) in the same area "Encountering a Creative God" 2 Chronicles 3: God Values Art and Beauty. There are also short "Encounter Notes" such as "God's Awesome Presence."

Beautifully bound with gold edged pages and ribbon markers, this soft cover Bible in a treasure. I highly recommend.

GIVEAWAY

Encountering God Study Bible NKJV

Open to USA addresses only

Begins April 30 

Ends May 9 @ 12:00 Midnight EDT

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DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Harper Collins Christian Publishing for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. Winner's prize copy of this Bible is provided and shipped directly to the winner by publisher, Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

The movie "Unsung Hero" about the band FOR KING + COUNTRY & their struggles [Review]

  

Tickets available for EARLY ACCESS NIGHT
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

About the movie: When David Smallbone's successful music company collapses, he moves his family from Australia to the United States in search of a brighter future. With nothing more than their six children, their suitcases, and their love of music, David (for KING + COUNTRY's Joel Smallbone) and his pregnant wife Helen (Daisy Betts) set out to rebuild their lives from the ground up. Based on a remarkable true story, a mum's faith stands against all odds; and inspires her husband and children to hold onto theirs.

My thoughts: Though I'm not a big fan of contemporary Christian music, I'm more of a traditional music lover, I found I was very interested in the history and story behind the Smallbone family and their foray into the business of Christian music.

This film consists of some very good acting, good cinematography, and true-to-life realism in costuming and design. The portray of their riches-to-rags-to-riches struggle is extremely moving and not real-to-life. As a mother of a family of five children, I found myself truly aching deep within my being at the mother's struggle to keep it all together, provide what was needed, and live a day-to-day life somewhat normal.

The bitterness, depression, deep hurt of betrayal that David Smallbone experienced and his plumet from being a glad-handing promoter to a penniless dad is heart breaking. 

The resilience of the children, especially the youngest, is uplifting and encouraging. They truly win the day.

And most of all, their deep faith and reliance of the God of miracles reminds viewers that we are not alone in our struggles and fight. 

A film worth seeing!

 

Tickets available for EARLY ACCESS NIGHT
BUY HERE

Giveaway: $10 Amazon Gift Card

 Limited to US winners only.

Begins April 9 & Ends May 2

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE:  Secret word: song - Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services, LLC for providing a sample of the movie for my review. Opinions are 100% my own. This is a sponsored post. Giveaway prize is provided by publicist or Momentum Influencers and emailed directly to winner by provider. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

These Tangled Threads: (A Southern Historical Fiction Book Set on the Early 1920's Biltmore Estate) by Sarah Loudin Thomas [Revies & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9780764242014
Bethany House
Paperback $17.99

My thoughts: Set amidst the beauty of the North Carolina Smoky Mountains, the story is based primarily on the little village at the foot of the estate of the Vanderbilt's "Biltmore Mansion." The story, though primarily in the village, touches on the relationship of workers in the village with the mansion properly. It meanders through the mountains of North Carolina and even touches West Virginia a bit.

The period of 1916 through mid-1920s was presented as a hard life in the Appalachian mountains, the pre-depression era, and after a major flood hit the area sweeping away much of life. The author creates characters appropriate for the time period who have been rescued from being orphans whose parents simply threw them away to kind clergy and gracious lady-of-the-manor persons.

The creativity of reclusive Appalachian ladies whose artistic weaving is at the heart of the story as is their hard-scrabble life. The author's descriptions of the designs woven into the fabric by these artists and the source of their design makes one wish to actually see and touch the cloth.

The story employs split timelines which does confuse the reader at times. I would prefer a more straightforward read as far as the time element goes. I felt this a deterrent to my personal enjoyment and the reason for my slow reading of the book.

Though all the characters were well fleshed out and knowable, I frankly only liked one character, Arthur, the now grown man who was an abandoned orphan raised by the local clergyman. He was kind, generous, smart, and a gifted artisan.

I have visited Biltmore and it is a beautiful place. The surrounding mountains envelope one with their majesty. The mansion is stunning. The gardens lovely. It has been said that the mansion was built in the style of English manors where there was a village that provided workers for the manor.

About the book: Set in the shadow of Biltmore Estate, a poignant tale of friendship, restoration, and second chances.

Seven years ago, a hidden betrayal scattered three young friends living in the shadow of the great Vanderbilt mansion. Now, when Biltmore Industries master weaver Lorna Blankenship is commissioned to create an original design for Cornelia Vanderbilt's 1924 wedding, she panics knowing she doesn't have the creativity needed. But there's an elusive artisan in the Blue Ridge Mountains who could save her--if only she knew where to begin.

To track down the mysterious weaver, Lorna sees no other way than to seek out the relationships she abandoned in shame. As she pulls at each tangled thread from her past, Lorna is forced to confront the wounds and regrets of life long ago. She'll have to risk the job that shapes her identity, as well as the hope of friendship--and love--restored.

About the Author: Sarah Loudin Thomas (sarahloudinthomas.com) is the author of numerous acclaimed novels, including The Finder of Forgotten Things, The Right Kind of Fool, winner of the 2021 Selah Book of the Year, and Miracle in a Dry Season, winner of the 2015 INSPY Award. She worked in public relations for Biltmore Estate for six years and is now the director of Jan Karon's Mitford Museum. A native of West Virginia, she and her husband now live in western North Carolina. Secret word: tangled

Where to purchase
Read to an excerpt

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 21

Ends May 20 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

LOVE'S PROMISE (Wyoming Sunrise Series #4) by Penny Zeller [Review]

My thoughts:  Penny Zeller's "Wyoming Sunrise Series" concludes with book four, Love's Promise, and it is a top notch wrap up of the entire series. In this story we meet a redeemed young man whose grandmother had adopted and raised. She prayed fervently for him through his turbulent childhood and young life when he went astray.

As the story opens in Love's Promise, we meet Silas who is now a rancher and who has lovingly attached himself to an older couple providing help as needed and finding much love in return. Soon their needs bring their granddaughter, Amaya, to assist.

As the story develops, Silas' past catches up with him and brings trouble to the community. 

Thrown into this mix, Silas discovers three young children living on their own with no one accountable for them. He solicits the community's assistance in caring for the children until a permanent solution can be found.

As the author fleshes out the characters, she weaves an especially endearing story. Not just sweet living but with adventure and danger compounding the action.

I highly recommend this entire series; but if you can only read one, then Love's Promise is the winner.

Books 1-3 in Wyoming Sunrise Series

About the book: Can one man's love win a fragile woman's heart?

After Amaya Alvarado lost her fiancé to a senseless tragedy, she vows never to love again. Two years later, at her grandmother’s request, she travels to Poplar Springs to assist with the mercantile and help care for her ailing grandfather. During a stagecoach accident and a confrontation with nefarious outlaws, she crosses paths with a man named Silas McFadden who rescues her and the other passengers. A bond between them soon forms.

Silas is not the man he once was. After a stint on the wrong side of the law, he’s now a respectable rancher in Poplar Springs, Wyoming. After becoming a man of faith, he determines to live his life for the One who gave him a second chance. He just never imagined that second chance might include Amaya. Now all he has to do is ensure his past doesn’t return and destroy his and Amaya’s fragile relationship.

Amaya’s and Silas’s friendship soon grows, and she begins to trust him with everything but her heart. Can she push her growing feelings for him aside? After all, isn’t it betraying her fiancé to care for another man the way she has grown to care for Silas?

When the past comes back to haunt him and revenge is sought, can Silas protect the woman he has come to love?

Take a return trip to Poplar Springs, Wyoming, for Silas and Amaya's story. A surprise reunion brings all of your favorite Wyoming Sunrise characters together in the final installment of this well-loved series.

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

The movie "Unsung Hero" about the band FOR KING + COUNTRY and their struggles [Giveaway]

 

Tickets available for EARLY ACCESS NIGHT
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

When David Smallbone's successful music company collapses, he moves his family from Australia to the United States in search of a brighter future. With nothing more than their six children, their suitcases, and their love of music, David (for KING + COUNTRY's Joel Smallbone) and his pregnant wife Helen (Daisy Betts) set out to rebuild their lives from the ground up. Based on a remarkable true story, a mum's faith stands against all odds; and inspires her husband and children to hold onto theirs.

 

Tickets available for EARLY ACCESS NIGHT
BUY HERE

Giveaway: $10 Amazon Gift Card

 Limited to US winners only.

Begins April 9 & Ends May 2

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE:  Secret word: song - Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services, LLC for providing a sample of the movie for my review. Opinions are 100% my own. Giveaway prize is provided by publicist or Momentum Influencers and emailed directly to winner by provider. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Introducing inspiring young children's biography "Do Great Things for God" series of Christian women [Review & Giveaway]

Find all titles at: TheGoodBook
Suitable for ages 4 to 7
Free downloadable activity sheets, etc. available on site.

Let me introduce you to The Good Book biography series featuring Christian women. This review will feature three titles: Susannah Spurgeon, Fanny Crosby, & Queen Elizabeth II.

Susannah Spurgeon: The Pastor’s Wife Who Didn’t Let Sickness Stop Her by Mary K. Mohler & illustrated by Cecilia Messina

My thoughts:  A lovely telling of the conversion of Susannah under the minstry and preaching of Charles Spurgeon. She later became his wife. The book shows how her life as his wife supported his ministry. She even established a "book fund" to collect funds for the distribution of Spurgeon's books to those who could not afford them.

Her health was poor and a frequent challenge creating hardships for her. She persisted in living out her life as a devoted pastor's wife.

The illustrations are charming and will capture the attention of young readers. This book, as with others in the "Do Great Things for God" series, has free online activities that can be downloaded. I am so glad to see this story included in the series. 

 

About the book: The true story of Susannah Spurgeon, the wife of British pastor Charles Spurgeon.

Susannah was married to a very gifted and busy preacher, who could not have done all he did without her support. Susie experienced poor health for much of her life but she did not let that stop her from serving. One key way that she served the wider church was by creating the Book Fund, which gave free copies of Charles' books to poor pastors who could not afford to buy them. Secret word: biographies

Fanny Crosby: The Girl Who Couldn't See But Helped The World To Sing by Laura Wickham & illustrated by Jess Rose

My thoughts:  I absolutely love this children's biography of Fanny Crosby. The illustrations are superb and the story so very sweet and informative. Fanny Crosby's life could have been so sad and filled with desperation. But it wasn't. It was filled with life, poetry, joy, music.

Her hymns have brought a spirit of worship to my heart and to untold millions of others as well as shaped and instilled an understanding of our connection to God. We have found joy and assurance, peace and contentment, and promise of God's faithfulness in the words and musical compositions from this beloved lady. 

I am delighted with this series  and that young children, especially girls, can enjoy learning about Christian women's lives.

About the book: The true story of one of the world’s most famous hymn writers. Frances—or Fanny, as everyone called her—was blind for most of her life but rejoiced that the first thing her eyes would see would be "the face of Jesus in heaven.” Fanny used her extraordinary musical ability to write hymns we still sing today, such as "To God Be the Glory" and "Blessed Assurance".

This beautifully illustrated children's biography of Fanny Crosby (1820-1915) is part of a series designed to show kids that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

Queen Elizabeth II: The Queen Who Chose To Serve by Alison Mitchell & illustrated by Emma Randall

My thoughts:  For many people around the World, Queen Elizabeth II has been "their" lady, queen, monarch, and source of respect and pride. For others, such as myself - an American, she has been a respected and admired figure head of a major peaceful country with which America is allied. But she has been much more. She has been a gracious, admirable lady. And even more so, she has voiced her dependence on Almighty God, His Son, Jesus and lived her life as a strong advocate of Christianity.

This little biography of Queen Elizabeth II balances her life and the times in which she lived beautifully. The illustrations are lovely and showcase a myriad of personages with whom she interacted through the years. She truly had a remarkable reign.

Truly an interesting and good book to share with young girls.

About the book: Princess Elizabeth never expected to be Queen. But when she was ten, her uncle, King Edward VIII, abdicated and everything changed… Her father took over as King, but after 15 years on the throne, he died. So when she was just 25 years old, Elizabeth was crowned Queen and became the longest-serving monarch in British history.

This inspiring children’s biography of Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022) chronicles key moments in her life. It also highlights her Christian faith, in particular what she has said in her Christmas Day speeches.

Young children will learn more about the incredible life and faith of Britain’s longest-serving monarch and they will be inspired about the great things they can do for God.

GIVEAWAY

April 7 to May 7 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

The Soil in Jackie’s Garden by award-winning author Peggy Thomas and illustrated by Neely Daggett [Review & Giveaway]

This spring, celebrate "National Learn About Composting Day" with The Soil in Jackie's Garden by Peggy Thomas & illustrated by Neely Daggett.

 

ISBN: 9781948898164
Hardcover $18.99 Ages 6-8
Feeding Minds Press

My thoughts:  Out-of-doors season has arrived and one of the joys of the warm weather days is planting a garden - vegetables, fruits, or flowers. And they all require soil. And they all require digging.

It's what is in the soil plus sun and rain that makes the garden and all it's loveliness grow. In the delightfully entertaining and educational book, The Soil in Jackie's Garden, young Jackie learns all about how she can enrich the soil and what it takes to get the soil to be productive - including critters that wiggle and squirm down deep in the dark moist dirt.

This charming book displays vertically (a bit different from regular printings) and that just seems to help visualize how it takes going deep down for soil to be enriched and effective. Young readers will be enticed to get a shovel, make a compost pile, dig a garden, find an earth worm, and be in absolute awe when they see their seeds sprout and seedlings grow to fruition.

Feeding Minds Press accurately presents factual knowledge in a format that children can understand. Children learn that there is more than a visit to the grocery store to putting a meal on the table. It takes soil. It takes digging. It takes attention to our environment.

I highly recommend this book for families and libraries. 

About the book: Join Jackie and her garden friends in this charming picture book as they discover the wonders of gardening, soil secrets, and the magic of composting Jackie and her garden friends embrace the joys of planting a garden, nurturing and harvesting their own food, and recycling scraps to compost, ensuring that the magical cycle of growth and sustainability continues anew. Science facts about soil, plants, pollinators, decomposers, and more are included on every spread. Secret word: garden

A fantastic book to engage young readers in becoming environmental stewards, learning how to care for a garden, understanding a plant life cycle, discovering the power of pollinators and the importance of composting. Written in the cumulative style of "The House that Jack Built," this playful celebration of how things grow, return to the earth, and grow again will inspire young readers to try their hands at gardening and composting. Back matter includes information on the soil cycle and how to make a compost pile.

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 6

Ends May 15 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Having fun with Candlewick children's books [Review & Giveaway]

The Princess and the (Greedy) Pea by Leigh Hodgkinson (ages 3-7)

My thoughts:  The cover of this book is delightfully cute and the colors a palette of happiness. Throughout the book the illustrations are cute, colorful, and funny.

The storyline is that of a fractured nursery rhyme or fairy tale and it is told along the lines of a cumulative tale/rhyme. The "voice" changes a bit when the princess enters the story. The rhyme bounces along nicely.

The text itself..... The font is cute, kind of swirly but just absolutely too small. It is presented as black ink on a white background which is appropriate. However, some pages have the colored text on dark backgrounds which are hard to read. All in all, the text loses on this one.

The "pea" is a gluttonous character that gets fatter and fatter. He ends up being devoured by the princess in the end. These two elements are key to the story but I didn't care for them.

About the book: A gluttonous pea runs afoul of a very hungry princess in this playful cautionary tale inspired by a favorite cumulative rhyme and a classic fairy tale.

There was a green pea who swallowed a sprout. Without a doubt, a brussels sprout. What’s that about?

I am concerned about the small type font and also about the small
type on dark background. Difficult to read but cute illustrations.

This little pea is hungry! So hungry it swallows a sprout, slurps up some soup, munches the bread, gobbles the cake, noshes the pickle, guzzles the cheese, drinks all the tea, and even chomps down the table it’s all served on. After all that, it needs to sleep. But whose dinner did it steal? And whose mattress is the now-humungous pea resting under? With bold, delightfully detailed illustrations and a bouncy verse perfect for reading aloud, this wickedly funny mash-up of “The Princess and the Pea” and “There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly” will have little listeners clamoring for multiple helpings.

Taxi, Go! Hardcover by Patricia Toht & illustrated by Maria Karipidou (Ages 3-5)

 

My thoughts:  Such a cute book and the Taxi takes on a personality of its own. Reminds me of books when my children were small about personable cars and trucks. Also, the cute story takes the reader all around town and the countryside as Taxi goes about taking riders ("fares") from place to place.

Young children who have never experienced a taxi ride learn about this special mode of getting about town.

I think this one is a winner!

About the book: With energy and exuberance, the author of Pick a Pine Tree and the illustrator of Angry Cookie pair up for a bustling day in the life of a big-city taxicab.

Today will be a busy day for Taxi! There are plenty of passengers to pick up, and they all need a ride—to a football game, a play, a business meeting, the airport, and more. Whizzing left, right, and through traffic, Taxi has to STOP for red lights and emergency vehicles. But after every stop, stop, stop, it’s Taxi . . . go, go, GO! Humming with musical rhyme and clever sound play, this vibrant take on a classic read-aloud theme radiates adventure and good fun. Brightly illustrated spreads of a happy urban world teem with details that vehicle-loving tots will pore over as they follow winsome Taxi through the work day and throughout the town until it’s time for bed.

Today Is for You! by Sally Lloyd-Jones & illustrated by Kevin Waldron (ages 3-7)

My thoughts:  The rhyming text is chock full of cheerful, positivity, and enthusiasm as it encourages young children - especially "you" - to live life to the fullest, engage in the things you see and hear, be active, be engaging, be positive.

I really enjoyed reading the rhyme through from beginning to end as it started with the start of the day and ended at bedtime. Just full of enthusiastic encouragement.

The illustrations didn't focus on just one individual child, but had a variety of children busy filling the pages. There is a happy "circus" style and sense to the illustrations though no circus is actually pictured. I did not care for some of the text such as dark purple background and font in another lighter shade of purple. This seems to be a trend in children's books and I find it unwelcome. Overall, though, the book is quite readable and quite enjoyable.

I also found this to be different from previous books by this author as she typically writes for the Christian publishing houses. I have never seen a book by Sally Lloyd-Jones I did not like and this one is no exception.

About the book: Sheer exuberance fills the pages of this picture book celebration of the promise every day brings.

Where will you go on those traveling feet?

Who will you love? Who will you meet?

Be a little seed. Get carried away!

Go WILD into the brand-new day.

From the bustle of the morning to the quiet of bedtime, every new day is filled with possibility. Follow a group of children as they find fun at every turn—dancing, playing games, picnicking, reading a book, climbing a mountain, or just shouting out their enthusiasm to the world. Sally Lloyd-Jones’s upbeat text integrates with Kevin Waldron’s high-energy mixed-media illustrations for a story that exudes unabashed joy.

Little Green Donkey by Anuska Allepuz  (Ages 3-7)

My thoughts: This is a simply told story of a picky eater. He fixates on a food (green grass) and eats it to excess. The result is he turns green. His mother despairs of convincing him to eat a variety of colorful foods, so he picks through a few. He settles on crunchy carrots. And then, alas, he turns orange as a carrot.

The purpose of the story is to show that our bodies need a variety of food and that we should not just pick one that we prefer. 

The illustrations are cute and capture the mood of the story quite well. 

About the book: Little Donkey loves eating grass. Grass is so juicy, zingy, sweet, and tangy! Mom asks him to please have a tiny taste of something else — oranges, watermelon, broccoli? — but a life of eating grass is just fine with Little Donkey. Until one day he spies his reflection in the watering hole and sees that he has turned green. Mom resumes her persuasion with new urgency. Apples and grapes? Yuck! No thank you! But carrots — carrots are crunchy, crispy, and delicious! Little Donkey is delighted with his new carrot-only diet and happy to transform from his all-green self to — oops! Pictures full of color and movement bring to life a charming story that will resonate with choosy eaters. Secret word: Tree

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

Chasing the Horizon (A Western Light #1) by Mary Connealy (Romantic, historical fiction) [Review]

 

Purchase 30% off
Reg. $16.99
ISBN: 9780764242656

My thoughts: This new historical fiction handles several subjects. One, the plight of women (and sometimes men) being wrongfully committed to insane asylums and the atrocious, inhumane treatment they received. Two, evil men who treated women under their care brutally. And three, the courage of pioneers along the wagon trail from east to west and dangers encountered.

As the author weaves this story, her characters are fleshed out giving the reader insight into their character and behavior. We love some and truly hate others. They show strength to overcome and the ability to adjust. Their astounding compassion toward others. And, yes, there is a sweet, budding romance. And the twisted mind, character, and deeds of the main protagonist show the depth of a man's evil.

At the end of their journey across the pages of this book, we find that perils still persist and this makes us as readers anticipate the author's next tale in the Western Light Series.

A book I highly recommend. 

About the book: Her only chance at freedom waits across the horizon...

Upon uncovering her tyrannical father's malevolent plot to commit her to an asylum, Beth Rutledge fabricates a plan of her own. She will rescue her mother, who had already been sent to the asylum, and escape together on a wagon train heading west. Posing as sisters, Beth and her mother travel with the pioneers in hopes of making it to Idaho before the others start asking too many questions.

Wagon-train scout Jake Holt senses that the mysterious women in his caravan are running from something. When rumors begin to spread of Pinkerton agents searching relentlessly for wanted criminals who match the description of those on his wagon train, including Beth, she begins to open up to him, and he learns something more sinister is at hand. Can they risk trusting each other with their lives--and their hearts--when danger threatens their every step? Secret word: Chase

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy the book to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.