The Wonders of the First Christmas: Explore the Birth of Jesus through History, Archaeology, & Art by Andy McGuire (Zonderkidz)

 

ISBN: 9780310170211
Hardcover | $18.99
ZonderKidz
Purchase Here - Amazon

My thoughts:  Small children live in the moment. Their ability to comprehend or independently visualize history or how people lived differently from their own way of living has to be gently and gradually taught. They "see" dinosaurs as frightful animals that should growl, prowl, and devour. But in actuality they see a simply an  animal not much different from animals in their own time-line than that of the neighbor's dog that barks, growls, runs, and jumps. They are "in the now" mentally and physically.

Therefore, instilling a comprehension of the Christ Child being born in a barn, placed in a manger, and being pursued by an evil king or other archeological, governmental, and societal life different from that in which he, himself, actual lives, is nil. So a book such as The Wonders of the First Christmas: Explore the Birth of Jesus through History, Archaeology and Art that tells the Bibilical account of the birth of Jesus in storybook form is typical. The inclusion of history lesson tidbits running parallel on the book's pages provides opportunity for parents to introduce elements of history and life during those ancient times to the young child. A wonderful concept and a helpful tool for parents to have at hand.

Beautifully told, the story of the birth of the Son of God adheres well to Scripture account. The illustrations are large, beautifully colored, and clearly drawn to visually articulate each scene. Detail and softness are both achieved in the art. The struggle of Joseph and the donkey on the journey are easy to comprehend. A snippet of Roman history. A snippet of the usefulness of donkeys during that period of history. Snippets about the life of the shepherds in the fields and the type of sheep they tended. The illustrations really capture the birth of Christ, the surroundings, the way of life, and His early journey to the safety of Egypt.

I highly recommend this unusual "Christmas story" book for its beauty, unusual information about the times, and its accurate retelling of the birth of the Christ Child.

About the book: Experience the Christmas story and witness the goodness of God. Through historical details and Biblical truths, The Wonders of the First Christmas is an inspirational and educational picture book that tells the story of Jesus’s birth from a new perspective, helping families deepen their understanding of God and his word.

The Christmas story is so familiar that we often take the details for granted. But did Mary and Joseph really ride on a donkey to Bethlehem? What was a manger and why did they use one for Jesus’s bed? And where were the wise men actually from? By approaching the story with historical insight and a child’s sense of wonder, Andy McGuire crafts a tale that feels fresh and insightful, using well-researched material and beautiful original artwork.

The Wonders of the First Christmas:

• Combines the gospel text of the nativity story with historical, biological, and geographic facts about ancient Israel and the life and times of Jesus.
• Gives children a solid foundation for their faith with beautiful art and additional content.
• Is the perfect Advent or Christmas book to share with children ages 4 and up
• Includes an easy-to-read main story as well as callouts with easy-to-understand facts
• Emphasizes God’s love for his children and his plan for our salvation.

Where you can buy a copy🎄 Click Here

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and freely given. #Christmas #Nativity #FirstChristmas #ChildrensBook #Bethlehem #ChristmasBook #christmastime #christmaspresents #ad

The First Christmas: The Bible’s Nativity Story (God’s Big Picture Bible Stories) by N. T. Wright & Helena Perez Garcia, Illustrator [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9781400253234
Hardcover  $17.99
Tommy Nelson Publishing

My thoughts:  A gorgeous book in large, over-sized format yet light weight for young hands, the narrative of author N.T. Wright's re-telling of the Biblical account of the birth of Jesus, the Christ child, is beautifully accurate and gentle in the telling. The cover art immediately captures one's attention with the darkness of night, glow of light, and reverence of characters as the Son of God is laid in a manger.

Recounting for young minds the advent of our Saviour from the angel's declaration to Mary and culminating in the journey from the safety of Egypt to their home in Galilee. The text flows gently yet with intentional accuracy. There are no added-in myths, barn-yard creatures, drummer-boys, etc. that is encountered in many of modern nativity books.

As is true of the entirety of the Bible, woven throughout and foremost in the narrative is Jesus. And just as it is told as a story, the last of the book gives the reader (and parents) a glimpse into the promises of God to send a redeemer.

A couple of pages at the end of the book tell of Old Testament promises, with lovely images, that bring together the story of the Christ child being foretold. A wonderful opportunity to teach cohesiveness of the Bible and the prophecies fulfilled.

This is a beautiful recounting that will be treasured.  

About the book: Keep Jesus in the center of your family’s Christmas and Advent celebrations with this beautiful nativity storybook from N.T. Wright, one of the world’s most loved and trusted Bible scholars.

With the big-picture approach that readers worldwide have learned to trust, N.T. Wright weaves together the biblical accounts of Jesus’ birth into a thoughtful, hope-filled telling of the first Christmas, from Gabriel’s announcement to the family’s return from Egypt.

The First Christmas features:

• a faithful telling of the nativity story;
• gorgeous painted art from award-winning illustrator Helena Perez Garcia;
• a resource page showing how Old Testament prophecies were fulfilled in baby Jesus’ coming; and
• a deluxe book with a presentation page.

A beautiful keepsake gift for children and adults alike, The First Christmas celebrates Christ’s birth with authenticity, beauty, and joy.

🎄GIVEAWAY🎄

Begins October 28

Ends November 25 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

The First Christmas: The Bible’s Nativity Story--God’s Big Picture Bible Stories

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

Merry Christmas, My Darling Dear: Celebrating the Gift of Jesus (Darling Animals in Bloom) [Review & Giveaway]

 

My thoughts:  Sweetness overload! Charm abounding! Cuddle time assured! That's what the "My Darling Dear" books from Amy Kavelaris bring to adults and little ones. Guaranteed! Well, at least I think they do.

Doe-eyed beauties and gentle love populate the pages of these books and will surely bring many requests for a re-read. Perfect for addition to homes with young children and gift giving by aunties, grandmommies, and all who love young children.

In Merry Christmas, My Darling Dear: Celebrating the Gift of Jesus, the author's gentle rhymes embrace the joys of the season, the gift giving and decorations, and  shared love of the Christmas holiday season. She then gently transitions into the real meaning and purpose of celebrating Christmas. She addresses with artistry and word smithing beauty the coming of the small baby that was the Son of God, the Christ, the Saviour.

 

I highly recommend this lovely book.

About the book: Step into a winter wonderland filled with beautiful artwork of woodland animals and flower crowns as you celebrate the true meaning of Christmas with your little ones. Merry Christmas, My Darling Dear follows a baby and mama deer who discover that Christmas festivities, decorations, and presents are reminders of the greatest gift of all—the birth of God’s Son.

When you string lights on your tree, remember Jesus, the Light of the World. And when you watch snow falling gently down, remember God sent His Son down to earth to be with us. Let each gift you give be a reminder of the greatest gift, the gift of our Savior. This baby and mama deer delight over each Christmasy moment as they wander through the snowy forest, enjoy Christmas activities, and encounter a beautiful church and its nativity scene.
Filled with whimsical illustrations from beloved author and artist Amy Kavelaris, this picture book

• For ages 4 to 8;
• Shows the value in Christmas festivities and how they point to the true reason for Christmas, the celebration of Jesus’ birth; and
• Great gift for Christmas and Advent as well as baby showers during the Christmas season.
• See the wonder of the Christmas season through your child’s eyes as you teach them that each moment is a celebration of God’s Son.

Check out my reviews of other books from Amy Kavelaris:

• Good Night, My Darling Dear
• Good Morning, Little One

🎄GIVEAWAY🎄

Begins October 25

Ends November 23 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

Merry Christmas, My Darling Dear: Celebrating the Gift of Jesus (Open USA only)

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

Our Christmas Tree Farm by Lisa J. Amstutz & Christina Forshay, Illustrator (Feeding Minds Press0 [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts:  This is truly a delightful story and so much educational information, too. I love how this family planted a seedling of a evergreen tree (i.e. Christmas tree type tree) when the little girl who is now seven was just a baby. She has watched and tended the little tree through the years. This year the plan is for her to cut it down and decorate it as her own tree.

Activity on the tree farm goes on all year long as they plant, tend, harvest, and then sell the trees. When it's time to open the farm for customers to select their own trees, it all comes alive with joy and treats.

Back information is truly informative. I found it especially interesting that rootings can be made from cuttings from trees and then planted to grow to full size.

A terrific book for libraries everywhere. A treat book for families that engage in the thrill that comes from going to a tree farm, selecting your own tree, helping cut it down, and having treats while there.

About the book: Customers have arrived at the Christmas tree farm, and Kate's whole family comes together to help―even Daisy the dog! Popping corn, setting up sleds, and baling trees keep the family busy while they maintain a watchful eye on one truly special tree.

Throughout the years, Papa has trimmed the trees, Mom has mowed the paths, and one extra special tree was planted for Kate. She and her tree are both seven years old and―finally!― the tree has grown tall enough to be brought inside and decorated for Christmas. Little brother Henry loves the tree so much that the family decides to graft a piece of it so they can grow Henry his very own Christmas tree, too.

With its vibrant illustrations, lyrical writing, and fun facts about a tree farm, OUR CHRISTMAS TREE FARM promises to become a new holiday tradition to enjoy for years to come.

This holiday picture book features information on how trees are grown and cared for on a farm. Extensive backmatter includes facts about Christmas trees and tree farms, how to graft a new tree from a twig, and the eco-friendly way to recycle a Christmas tree.

Author: Lisa Amstutz is the author of more than 150 books for kids. As a child, she enjoyed helping with her family's Christmas tree patch and other small farming ventures. Today she writes about nature, sustainability, and agriculture from a small farm of her own. To learn more, see www.LisaAmstutz.com.

Illustrator: Christina Forshay was born and raised in sunny Southern California. During the holidays, she loves sipping on hot cocoa, snuggling with her kids and kitties, watching classic movies, and, of course, decorating her Christmas tree! When she’s not illustrating, you can find Christina having adventures on a golf course, on a soccer field, at the beach, at a museum, or at a concert! Find more of her work at www.christinaforshay.com.

🎄GIVEAWAY🎄

Begins October 24

Ends November 21 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only

Our Christmas Tree Farm by Lisa J. Amstutz (Open USA only)

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

A top deal for TopCashBack

Did  you KNOW that you can earn cash back on memberships as well as grocery purchases, drug store purchases (not prescriptions), clothes, and so much more????

I just renewed my AARP membership and earned $10 for a 1-year renewal. You can earn up to $25. click here for my referral link, please. Join. Start earning your cash back.

When it's time to "cash out" my account, I like to get gift cards. Example: A Target gift card gives me 3% more back than the actual cash back amount. I also love it when I get an email showing a special deal that TopCashBack offers like the $2.50 on any purchase. That is on top of the percentage the store and TopCashBack are offering. Another win-win!

Here's a screenshot of my most recent shopping trips and earnings. My AARP deal isn't showing yet but will be soon. 

You can choose to transfer your "cash back" earnings to your bank account, too.

It is a totally win-win opportunity to stretch your money. Again, my referral link.

Dark Design (The Erin Delaney Mysteries #2) by Nancy Mehl [Book Spotlight & Giveaway]

A Christian Romantic Suspense Novel with Mystery and FBI Action

As she began to lose consciousness, she realized that she'd just made a very serious mistake. . . .

She tried to call out for help, but she couldn't see anyone on the shore.

There was no one to save her.

When Erin Delaney learns that a serial killer has mimicked the murder portrayed in her bestselling novel, she joins her friend Kaely Quinn-Hunter, a former FBI profiler, in Virginia. Their reunion, only a few months after fending off an eerie killer in the woods of Tennessee, is bittersweet, as Kaely has been tasked by the FBI to recruit Erin's help to identify a suspect. The FBI's team is stumped by the murderer who re-creates killings from the books of multiple authors, with only ominous notes left behind. As Erin is drawn further into the web of fear and chaos, Kaely begins to fear for Erin's safety.

On top of tracking down a murderer, Erin must shoulder the weight of a haunted past and claims that she stole the plot of her novel from one of her sources. As she struggles on multiple fronts, the enemy looms closer than ever--and Erin's life hangs in the balance.

Watch for Chat With Vera's review, soon!

Read an excerpt - click here

Purchase your copy - click here

Read my review of Shattered Sanctuary (Erin Delaney Mysteries #1) - click here 

GIVEAWAY

Begins October 21

Ends November 20 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

Dark Design (The Erin Delaney Mysteries #2) by Nancy Mehl

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 directly to the winner by author, publicist, or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Selection of winner is random selection by Gleam system from qualified entries.

Holiday seasons give lots of opportunities to "Gather Grateful" [book review]

ISBN: 9781536233384
Candlewick Press
Hardcover $18.99

My thoughts:  As days grow cooler and leaves turn colorful and begin to cascade from their perch on branches, all sorts of things happen as preparation for the coming cold and appreciation for the days of warmth and abundance cease. They happen everywhere......

A tea cup memory

As I sit ensconced in my comfy, "old lady" recliner on this slightly chilly day in mid October, I am sipping a delightful cup of warm "Constant Comment" tea. It brings to my mind childhood memories. It also brings memories of my young motherhood self. And it brings a couple of delightful and blessed memories of my dear mother.

My childhood home was about four blocks (city of Wilmington, NC) from a very old - yes, old even then - school, Tileston. This housed an elementary school and a Junior High. I attended there from first through ninth grades. In those days, the school cafeteria served hot and cold lunches. They weren't free. Parents had to pay for them. So I walked home every day for lunch.

My mother always had a bowl of soup, or a sandwich, ready when I walked in the door. Sometimes milk to drink or water. But on the colder days, there was a cup of hot tea. I remember mother setting the cup down on the table with the tea bag still in it and steam rising from the cup. She cast toward me one of her precious smiles and had a twinkle in her eye as she did so. She loved me. She found joy in providing for me.

Fast forward to my young adult life when I, as a young mother I found joy in providing for my children just as my mother had found joy in providing for me.

Knowing my limited "means" during these days of my being a young mother, she would sometimes surprise me at Christmas with a tin that held a few bags of "Constant Comment" tea. A treat I didn't allow myself as a young mother. Again, that sweet smile and that precious glint in her eye.

Yes, my dear mother continued to provide that joy even then.

And today, as I sip my tea, my hands are holding the last remaining cup 'n saucer from mother's breakfast set. The cup's smooth surface along with the warm smoothness of this sip of tea awakens the remembered joy as the tea glides into my mouth and trickles down my throat.

A tea cup memory of a beautiful love.

Note: Mother would be 109 now. Also, dishes "VersaTone by Noritake."

Dive into some kids' non-fiction books and discover worlds of fascination (ages 5-9)

Spark: Jim West's Electrifying Adventures in Creating the Microphone by Ainissa Ramirez; illustrated by Setor Fiadzigbey (MIT Kids Press, for ages 5-9, available October 21, 2025)

My thoughts:  This is an absolutely fascinating kid's biographic book about a little know scientist. It also demonstrates the ingenuity and perseverance of a young black kid whose curiosity led him from "first spark" (literally) to becoming an icon of invention. His story parallels, to some degree, the space exploration mathematicians "Hidden Figures" venture into the working world of black scientists.

Jim West's story is well written and illustrated for the young reader and will hopefully instill a sense of inventiveness and discovery in another young person.

CHRISTMAS AT THE CABIN (movie) from Faith Chanel

CHRISTMAS AT THE CABIN is releasing in theaters this November 2025. Watch trailer & learn more at christmasatthecabinmovie.com

🎄🎄🎄“Christmas at the Cabin” is the ultimate feel-good family Christmas movie of the season! Starring Todd Terry, Marianne Haaland, Corey Cannon, Sharon Oliphant, and Stacey Sheffield, “Christmas at the Cabin” delivers a touch of chaos and laughter, plenty of heart, and one truly unforgettable Christmas. Beautiful scenery blends with original music and beloved holiday classics, making this a perfect film for the entire family. Make your plans to watch this Christmas and visit christmasatthecabinmovie.com to watch the full trailer & learn more.

DISCLOSURE: I am promoting this movie in agreement with Momentum Inluencers Network. #ChristmasAtTheCabinMIN #ChristmasAtTheCabin  @ChristmasAtTheCabin #sponsored

Grow (Movie release date October 17) [Review, Promo & Giveaway]

My review: GROW the movie is a family friendly (and safe) film that will tickle your funny bone and have you cheering for this dear, sweet, mischievous little girl and the folks in her life that come to her aid. Deserted as a young elementary school child by her mother and then left by social services in the keeping of a stern, unyielding children's home (i.e. orphanage), she is rebellious and hard to handle. Then her  mother's sister, her lone relative, picks her up and takes her to live at the broken down, failing farm.

The nearby small town (in the UK) is home to a famous man (and his descendants) who grew fabulous pumpkins. It is also home to an annual famous Pumpkin Festival. And hence the story really begins to develop into a growing contest where the competition is near to being all out war.

A story of ideas, restoration, unexpected friendship, unexpected help, and a growing of love as well as a growing of a more-than-fabulous pumpkin.

A delightful story. A really cute film. A fun movie. I found joy in this cute story about the little girl, Charlie's, growing into a delightful rather than pestiferous little girl.

Note: This is not a faith based film. It is, however, a delightful story with beautifully done filming; and the film color is wonderful. 

About the movie: In the Pumpkin Capital of the World, stoic farmer Dinah Little (Golda Rosheuvel) begrudgingly takes in her spirited niece, Charlie (Priya-Rose Brookwell). But Charlie isn’t an ordinary child—she has a special knack for connecting with plants that quietly reflects her own longing to feel just as seen and loved. As the town prepares for the annual pumpkin-growing contest, Charlie sets her sights on winning. With the help of quirky Arlo (Nick Frost), plot and pumpkins thicken as rival growers pull every trick in the book. Will Charlie and Dinah’s unlikely entry stand tall against the fiercest competition the town has ever seen? As her pumpkin grows, so does her bond with Dinah, and together they learn the real prize is joy, laughter, and family.

Colorful cast of characters: From curmudgeonly farmers to over-the-top rivals, every character feels like they’ve stepped out of a cozy, autumnal fairy tale. Charlie’s pumpkin “Peter” isn’t the only thing full of personality—the whole town bursts with quirky charm. 

In theaters October 17

Buy tickets - click here

Download kid's free Activity Book - click here

GIVEAWAY

$10 Amazon E-Gift Card

Begins October 13

Ends October 22 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA entrants only

$10 Amazon Gift Card ("Grow" the movie promo)

Disclosure: Many thanks to US Pumpkin Distribution, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. Winner's Amazon gift card is provided by publicist on behalf of production company as a film launch promotion and is emailed to winner by publicist. Publicist has discretion to disqualify a winner that has won a gift card as part of this promotion on another blog promoting the film. There will be a gift card awarded an entrant via my blog. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. #GrowMovieMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

Trendy, pretty Habit Nail Polish trio sets - Clean Beauty for Colorful People [Review & Giveaway]

The good folks at Good Earth Beauty can help you pretty up your hands with Habit Natural Nail Polish. This is a natural, vegan, non-toxic polish that is not harmful like other polishes. 

You can still get that "beach vibe" when you add a bit of fun color to your nails and the Habit "Beach House" collection will certainly satisfy that desire. Or if you wish another bright pop of colors, the "Brights - Flower Child" will give you just the stimulus you wish.

All bundled up in a neat little box, each collection has 3 pretty colors that compliment each other. Use them to create designs on your nails (if you're so skilled) or paint more than one color on your nails for a little bit of zing!

As the colder days creep in (or blast in - depending on your geographical location), one still needs to maintain a routine and make certain that they keep up with how they look from day to day. Sometimes, that means going "bright" or "beachy" with a pop of color on your nails. But it all starts with taking care of yourself!

Get out of bed. Make the bed. Style your hair. Wash your face and of course your hands. Clean the house. Cream your face. Add some color to your lips and your cheeks. Do your nails!

And then ..... there are the hands. Your hands may be those of a young mother that is constantly cleaning, washing, cooking, and then.... cleaning - again! Lathered and rinsed until your cuticles and nails as well as knuckles are showing a bedraggled look. 

Or..... your hands may be the tired, worn hands of an older, mature woman that need a bit of grace and tender love. We hear ya! No matter! You matter! Your hands matter! You need to take care of yourself.

✔️Fix it!

✔️Get a bottle of polish. Get a clipper. Get a file. Then trim, shape, and get pretty. 

What color would you choose? Liven up the day with a crimson red or become a beguilingly beauty in a blushing pink. Or perhaps..... go bold with pastels in a rainbow of colors. What's your choice?

goodearthbeauty.com

Now here's a superb thought..... order online! The folks at Good Earth Beauty (which is a fabulous all natural product beauty shop online) is the perfect place to shop natural, vegan, cruelty free, etc. I love it!

I've used Habit Natural Nail Polish in the past. I'm telling you, it went on beautifully. I had a nice base coat applied. Then two coats of this beautiful Habit Nail Polish. Then a top coat. (Click here to see my other review of Habit Nail Polish)

Go ahead and check out Good Earth Beauty's Habit Nail Polish collection. CLICK HERE

About the collections: Try three of our bright bestselling shades in the perfect travel size to take with you on the go and make it your new habit! Created with recycled plastic components and FSC-certified paperboard boxes. By Habit Cosmetics

Ingredients: Butyl Acetate, Ethyl Acetate, Nitrocellulose, Adipic Acid/Neopentyl Glycol/Trimellitic Anhydride Copolymer, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate, Isopropyl Alcohol, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Stearalkonium Bentonite, N-Butyl Alcohol, Benzophenone-1, Silica, Alumina, Trimethylpentanediyl Dibenzoate, Polyvinyl, Butryal, Commiphora Abyssinica Extract. May Contain (+/-): Aluminum Powder (CI 77000), Bismuth, Oxychloride (CI 77163), Oxides (CI 77499/ CI 77491), Red 34 Lake (CI 15880), Red 6 Lake (CI 15850), Red 7 Lake (CI 15850) Yellow 5 Lake (CI 19140), Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide (CI 77510), Mica (CI 77019), Blue 1 (CI 42090), Yellow 11 (CI 47000), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Violet 2 (CI 60725), Polyethylene Terephthalate, Isobutylphenoxy Epoxy Resin, Polybutylene Terephthalate, Ethylene/VA Copolymer]

Shop GoodEarthBeauty.com

Use 10% Discount Code: GEB10

Free Shipping in USA (some limits) 

GIVEAWAY

1 Trio Set Habit Natural Nail Polish

Winner's choice of reviewed sets

Begins October 11 

Ends November 5 at 11:59 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

Habit Cosmetics Nail Polish Trio Set

DISCLOSURE: I received lovely products to facilitate a review. Any opinions given are my own alone and are freely given. I was not required to render positive thoughts on the products. I only recommend those products which I or a member of my family or close friends and will use. The winner's prize will be provided and shipped directly to the winner by Good Earth Beauty. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or damaged products. 

Jesus, Our True Friend: Stories to Fill Your Heart With Joy by Sally Lloyd-Jones

My thoughts:  Beautifully written to bring beloved Saviour, Jesus, to young hearts, Jesus, Our True Friend is a welcome addition to children's book collections, church libraries, and libraries that care to include Christian publications. It makes an exceptional gift that will bring delight and help establish the child's concept of Jesus.

Imagination Station newest release children's chapter book "Drought, Wind, & Fire" from Focus on the Family & Adventures in Odyssey (ages 7-12)

The bestselling Imagination Station series is from the Focus on the Family "Adventures in Odessey" brand and is published by Tyndale House. This is a well-establishing, long-running series that parents can count on to be entertaining, historically educational, and faith based as they explore historical times and events.

These fast-paced, faith-filled adventures transport kids to pivotal moments in history and Scripture—igniting courage, hope, and excitement with every turn of the page.

Newest release.....

DROUGHT, WIND, AND FIRE (The Imagination Station #34)

My thoughts:  Just enough pages and text to capture young readers' attention without overwhelming. Written by an established author in this genre with the endorsement of Focus on the Family and Tyndale Publishing, this series of "Adventures in Odyssey, The Imagination Station" books provides attention grabbing story telling of Biblical events with truth and historical accuracy.

Riches Beyond Measure (Golden State Treasure #3) by Mary Connealy [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9780764244414
Paperback - $18.99 US
Bethany House
Baker House Publishing

 

My thoughts:  Early in the book the reader is shaken by the trembling terror of the California area, an earth opening, ground breaking earthquake with multi after quakes. A chuck wagon (i.e. the food wagon) is swallowed by a gaping split in the earth, and the story of good folks in the early days of the American frontier continues to unfold with a race for cover.