My thoughts: Set in 1818 and peopled with characters from varied walks of life - fishermen, apothecarist, shopkeepers, and Lords and Ladies of the Manor born, the author weaves a tale tightly convoluted and tangled as only a true word smith can do. It is intriguing how the story begins with the jarring reality of criminal arson and murder, kidnapping of the girl, Meg Foxcroft, and later her being found.
It is quite unusual how Meg, an ordinary young lady who is educated (she can read) is thrust into the hands and care of the Lord of the Manor who unexpectedly cares for her even though she is most assuredly not of his class and station in life.
Galaxy Mapper: The Luminous Discoveries of Astrophysicist Hélène Courtois
ISBN: 9781536228977 Hardcover $18.99 US MIT Kids Press
My thoughts: This is a picfturebook biographical story of a girl born in 1970 who was inquisitive. She observed, questioned, and had ideas. She, in my opinion, was blessed to have had parents who provided surroundings and activities that encouraged and allowed her curosity to flourish. She is also the fortunate beneficiary of the achievements of women who blazed the way for women's inclusion into scientific fields of study.
Growing up in the alps, she hiked and had trail maps to guide her. She went on to study other maping ways. She found interest in gazing at the moon with her bird watching binoculars. She loved the night sky.
Fortune Cookies for Everyone! (Smithsonian): The Surprising Story of the Tasty Treat We Love to Eat
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My thoughts: The author’s own Japanese-Chinese heritage and her love for historical research brings authenticity to her story of the fortune cookie. A sweet multigenerational story tells of the background of the fortune cookie as it is interwoven in the WWII interment camps in America of Japanese-Americans.
I especially loved the sweet family interaction. I can almost taste a fortune cookie as I write this. Mia Wenjen’s books are a real treat.
About the book: An investigative picture book which cracks the cookie open to discover what is known about the origins of everyone's favorite crunchy after-dinner treat - a collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution.
Grandma Miyako hosts her grandchildren for a takeout meal. Of course, at the end of the meal, she hands out the fortune cookies and begins to share the story of this popular treat with the attentive children as they munch on them. She claims she knew the true inventor of the fortune cookie, but the history is not so clear. Using fortunes as headings, each section of the book delivers an episode in the unusual history of the fortune cookie and lays out the great debate about where and when they were first made. California was certainly the location, but in which city was the original baker located? This picture book looks inside these crunchy, biscuity treats to reveal the cultural origins and locations of the creators. Along the way, we discover some surprising history regarding this delicious edible delight, including a rivalry between bakers that remains somewhat unresolved today. Fortune Cookies for All is a compelling mystery containing US history; the good, the bad, and the ugly, in a single bite. But most of all, it celebrates immigrants and their pursuit of the American dream.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review from Kregel Publishing. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by author or author's publicist.Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.
Your Island, Your Farm, Your Forest Jon Klassen, Author & Illustrator Candlewick Press ~ ISBN: 9781536241853
Your Places Box Set: (3 Board Books for Babies & Toddlers About Safe Spaces, Comfort, & Imagination) by Jon Klassen
My thoughts: The classic simplicity of Jon Klassen children's book illustrations and sparse text is especially suitable for the very young child. Klassen's illustrations traditionally feature wide-open eyes that peer from various and often unexpected places.
My thoughts: What a beautifully and artistically executed story! This sweet little mouse is headed out in the midst of a dreadful wintry storm through the countryside, and a kindly gentleman offers Mouse a ride in his carriage. Sadly, the Willow tree blocks their path. They disembark and mouse spots the missing items from the mouse household precariously clinging to the branches - an umbrella, a boot, and even a key.
My thoughts: Bold, stark drawings of winter wilderness captures a mother Red Fox and her two kits in a variety of scenarios. Each is a glimpse into tender care on behalf of the mother and snuggling sweet cuteness of the kits.
Deep shades of blue and red against the stark white of snow with flakes falling capture the essence of cold and serene winter beauty. The sparse sprinkle of silver metalic sheen is an especially nice touch and lends an icey glitter to multiple pages.
About the book: Being made in God’s image can be a hard concept for children to fully grasp, but The Glorious Image of God explains how, through the story of Jesus, we can learn to see God’s reflection within ourselves and foster a deeper sense of spiritual identity and self-worth. From ministry leader and children’s book author Rousseaux Brasseur, this masterfully woven, rhyming text dives into stories from the Bible unpacking what it means to be an image bearer of God, helping us to better understand how we can share God’s love and goodness with others in our lives.
Fun and STEM education taken to a new level for young children to learn about God's Wonderful World with these delightful, insightful, & attention grabbingly illustrated board books.
A joyful gift for little ones to find under the Christmas tree!
Young children are like sponges and soak up facts and learn about their world with amazing speed and skill. Dr. Fizzlebop's Super Simple Science board books introduce core learning concepts to young inquirers. As they learn about the alphabet and animals, colors and counting, weather science, and outer space with these four delightful "Super Simple Science" books, they begin to connect these simple bits of science into their surroundings and their minds take them forward on their beginning journey to further explore God's amazing world.
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My thoughts: On pages awash with soft pastels, a beautiful mix of mother-daughter duets grace the pages of this lovely book as it explodes with exuberance and truth that God sees our worth and it never wavers. Not intended to teach a selfish sense of importance but to instill a root base of one's individual importance to God in His heart and in His mind, the steadfastness of God's faithfulness is expressed in ingenious terms throughout the book.
An absolutely perfect Christmas gift for young child!
🌟Colorful
🌟Attention getting & keeping
🌟Educational
🌟Trustworthy
"The Jesus Storybook Bible" by Sally Lloyd Jones
Purchase Here ISBN: 9780310708254 Hardcover | $24.99 US/ $31.00 CAD
My thoughts: Sally Lloyd Jones does such a good job presenting to children the stories from throughout the Bible. In The Jesus Storybook Bible she retells the well known stories from the Bible and how Jesus is in - even though in shadow - each of them. Sized for young hands, this thick book has pictures to interest and understandable text that can be read to the young child. As the child grows and learns to read, he or she will begin to read these simply retold stories for themselves.
Originally published in 2007, it's many editions attest to the dependability and trustworthiness of the storybook. This is a storybook and not intended to replace a Bible. There is no chapter/verse text. This is a retelling of the stories that are in the Biblical text. (Note: For reference the Book/Chapter/Verse are provided.)
As cold days encroach on our living and as the holidays cast us into a whirl of activities, we should take time to settle in for a long evening of reading.
What better way than to enjoy a bit of holiday cheer - contemporary or historical - than via a sweet, faith-filled story told by beloved Christian fiction novelist, Penny Zeller.
Here are two to enchant.....
Under the Mistletoe: A Christian Small-Town Rom-Com (Small Town Shenanigans) by Penny Zeller (Author)
❄️He's a nerdy tourist needing a vacation.
❄️She's a bed and breakfast employee with a broken heart.
❄️Love is the last thing they expect to find this Christmas.
Magnolia “Mags” Davenport has not had an easy life. Determined to leave behind painful memories, she decides, on a whim, to move halfway across the country to Horizon, Idaho, a town she's never before heard of. What should be a simple escape to a new life turns into an adventure she never imagined. From dangerous train rides to a stagecoach robbery, Mags wonders if she'll ever reach her destination. When she finally sets foot in the small town filled with friendly people and a slightly aggravating, but kind and handsome man who needs spectacles, will she find the new beginning her heart craves?
Four things matter most in Timothy Shepherdson's life—faith, family, farming, and food. Content as a farmer and uncle to his passel of nieces and nephews, Timothy isn't interested in courtship or romance, especially since none of the women with their caps set for him can cook. What should be a simple trip into town changes everything after a case of mistaken identity. Timothy finds himself not only under the ire of newcomer Magnolia Davenport, but immensely intrigued when he learns she's opening a bakery. Can he convince the wary baker to both forgive and give him a second chance?
Take a trip to Horizon, Idaho, in this tender romance that reminds us that God is the author of new beginnings.
**Please note: Love on the Horizon is a faith-filled Christian historical romance.**
DISCLOSURE: Giveaway uniquely hosted on Chat With Vera. Winner's prize book is provided by and sent to winner by author or author's representative. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Winner is randomly selected using the entry platform. Winner must respond with required information for sending prize to winner within 48 hours of email sending notification time/date. Failure to provide required information within the time allotted will result in a different winner being selected.
ISBN: 9798384515630 Hardcover $22.99 US B&H Publishing
My thoughts: This isn't just a "make-me-feel-good-about-myself" devotional book to guide young girls in their relationship with God. This book plants the concept of "who the actual being God is in the universe" and then how He being the God of All that He is relates to us in our being.
Profound truths and ideas presented in a gentle, understandable writing style will guide young ladies (or any reader) toward understanding the "I Am" of all - God.
About the book: The beginning of understanding who we are is knowing who God is.
Author Alena Franklin is close enough to her teen years to remember what it is like to ask the question, “Who am I?” From joining friend groups to figuring out what to do after high school and even declaring what career path to pursue, teens are constantly asked to identify themselves in some way. But what if the most important thing about who a teen girl is, isn’t her popularity or college major? What if it’s her creator?
Spend 60 devotions unpacking God’s characteristics in this illustrated devotional. He is good, our helper, all-knowing, perfect, love, a good shepherd, and much more.
This book is filled with
Encouraging Scripture
Five-minute devotions
Colorful artwork
Daily reflection questions
Teens won’t want to put down this captivating devotional. These truths are the beginning of knowing God more and loving Him deeply. When teens know without a doubt who God is, everything else fades into the distance. While friends and plans do matter, the most important thing is who God says girls are: His daughters.
My thoughts: This is another story about the every recurring Christmas time nativity pageant at church. A little girl really wants to be the star of the show (as she sees it) - the angel proclaiming the birth of the Christ Child. But she auditions and isn't selected. Instead she is chosen to be the little drummer girl.
Though disappointed, she does her part and does it well. And in so doing she learns that the new born babe is really a king and that she is doing her part for The King. Precious illustrations are a little reminiscent of books from the 1940s and 1950s but still capture the essence of today's life. Bright. Joyful. Full of life illustrations capture the vibe of the story and the activities surrounding Christmas and Christmas pageants.
The rhyming, story-telling text isn't quite poetry and yet it is a bit more than poetic prose. Works very well as a read-aloud story.
About the book: Isabella loves to dance and sing, so when she sees auditions posted for the Christmas pageant at church, she dreams of landing the perfect part--the Christmas angel with a sparkling halo, flowing white robe, and her very own wings.
But things don't go quite as planned. She does get a part. The little drummer . . . girl? Drummers don't wear sparkling halos, flowing white robes, or wings! Will this be the most disappointing Christmas ever?
Filled with witty rhymes and whimsical illustrations, The Little Drummer Girl helps children ages 3 to 5 understand how an awful day can turn into the greatest day of all. This unique telling of the Christmas story from the perspective of a little girl delivers an entertaining message of hope, humor, and the power of God's love, as shown through his gift of Jesus--not just at Christmas but every day.
DISCLOSURE: I received a copy as part of the Librarything.com Early Reviewers Program.
My thoughts: I'm not a fan of fictional stories set around Biblical themes and especially with people and incidents from the Bible. That is my personal preference for my own reading. However, I can see it as an opportunity for immersive reading for a child or teen to empathize with the characters when this is done. In Ethan's Challenge we have a teen involved in a missionary journey with Paul, Barnabas, and Mark. The hardships of the time are experienced and Ethan is right there. The story concept reminds me of a series my children enjoyed as young teens - the "We Were There" historical fiction books.
The book and story is fictional and the intent is to encourage spiritual grown in readers. Each short chapter has a devotional thought at the end. So this spiritual growth/devotional emphasis would make this a good family read-aloud book for older elementary and young teens.
The book is not a picture book. Format is a square book and the print is smaller than I like.
About the book: Gather the family for an exciting read about Paul's first missionary journey!
Thirteen-year-old Ethan is happiest when he's hiding between sacks of grain in his mother's storeroom. There, he's safe from the world and doesn't have to be brave or clever like his grandfather Jotham or his father, Amon. But with his famous relatives, Ethan seems destined—or maybe doomed—for adventure.
Before long, Ethan is hundreds of miles from home on a journey with the most famous Christian missionary, running from an angry mob wielding clubs and axes and wanting to kill them. How in the world did he end up here? As a reluctant Ethan travels with Paul, Barnabas, and Mark, he begins to learn the importance of courage in the face of trials and of sharing the good news of Jesus.
Readers of all ages will enjoy the real events and places of Acts 13-15 from the relatable perspective of thirteen-year-old Ethan, who is the descendant of the beloved characters from Arnold Ytreeide's hugely popular Christmas and Easter series. This is the perfect read for families at any time of the year. Purchase a copy: click here
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review from Kregel Publishing. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by Kregel Publishing. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.
Veterans. Veteran's Day. Who are they, and what is it? It's a day to remember those who served in the United States of America military services. Some are young. Some are old. Some fought on the ground, upon the seas, and in the air. Some fought myriads of paper work that flowed endlessly across the sea of records that was their desk. Some taught various courses with lectures and chalk upon the chalk board. Some served abroad. Some served at home. They were our military men and women. They are those we respectfully remember on each Veteran's Day.
My husband served in the Air Force during the Korean War. He ended up teaching with lectures and chalk. Radar math for those who would be in the air and on the land tracking with this resource. It was the late 1940s to early 1950s. He never flew a plane or shot at an enemy. But he was a veteran. He loved his time serving his country. He respected our flag. Respected our America. Respected those who served.
CHRISTMAS AT THE CABIN is releasing in theaters November 2025. Watch trailer & get more information at christmasatthecabinmovie.com
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“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.
Watch interview with actress/screenwriter about how God led in this film.
My thoughts: With a bit of "over-the-top" Christmas doings and goings-on, a husband and wife plus her sister try to get away from it all to the snowy mountains in a rustic cabin. They load their car with Christmas decorations, including outdoor lights, and expect to have loads of rest and glittery Christmas time cheer together. Upon arrival they find the cabin already occupied by a former friend of "husband." This results in chaotic disapproval by wifey.
Whilst they bemoan each other's existence, behaviors, and verbiage wifey feels really out of sorts and storms off in the mountain wilderness.
Some good Christian, biblical revelations take place in their conversations though it was at times difficult to follow their thinking. Some soul searching. Some really silly behavior. Some decent acting. Some not-so-spot-on acting. Some beautiful scenery. Some pretty good job filming.
Basically, a good family movie that brings to heart some inner feelings and short comings of many of us. Super kudos for terrific animated film credits at end - a real winner windup.
GIVEAWAY
$10 Amazon E-Gift Card: 1 Winner
Begins November 8
Ends November 18 @ 11:59 p.m. ET
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NOTE: We can accept ONLY winners who have NOT won via another blogger's giveaway in this campaign. I will randomly select a 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place candidate to win. Publicist will determine their validity to win. Only 1 winner can win the gift card via Chat With Vera.
DISCLOSURE: I am promoting this movie in agreement with Momentum Influencers Network. Any opinions expressed in review of movie are solely my own. #ChristmasAtTheCabinMIN #ChristmasAtTheCabin @ChristmasAtTheCabin #sponsored
About Peace of God Bible: You were made for peace—and to be a peacemaker.
The story of the Bible is the story of peace—peace with God and with one another. But peace isn’t simply a feeling of calm or ease. It is a way of experiencing life as we were always meant to—in relationship with our Creator and with each other. We can recover a completeness that was once lost but is restored in the gospel. The Peace of God Bible invites you to experience peace with God as you trace this important theme throughout Scripture. By meditating on it daily as you read 365 devotions and application notes, you will find the encouragement you need to live out of the wholeness you have in Christ—and be equipped to share that peace with others.
Features include: Book introductions to help reveal the part peace plays in each book of the Bible
365 devotionals based on a key verse or passage to guide you in how to receive
and live by God’s peace
365 peace notes offering short, powerful insights to help you understand more
deeply the wholeness you have in Christ
Topical indexes to help you study on your own how God's peace can shape different relation-ships in your life
Articles explore what the peace of God is, how to find or recover it, and how
to experience eternal salvation because of what God has done for you
Concise concordance and index of features
End-of-page translators’ notes and cross-references
Jeremiah Johnston, PhD (General Editor) Bio: Jeremiah J. Johnston, PhD, is an elected member of the preeminent New Testament scholarly guild Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas (SNTS) and ministers internationally as president of Christian Thinkers Society (www.christianthinkers.com). Jeremiah loves the local church, and also serves as pastor of apologetics and cultural engagement at Prestonwood Baptist Church.
My thoughts: Throughout my long life, I have found that the turmoil of life and the stresses that we encounter simply can not be endured without help. And I found that help through a peace that passes all understanding. A peace that comes from knowing that God is in control, that God is my strength, that God is my refuge, that God is my underlying peace and contentment. And I found strength in a simple verse that is so powerful..... "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee." Isaiah 26:3 - there are so many references to the peace that comes from knowing and trusting God.
This is a beautifully appointed Bible and perfect for one's own personal use and for gifting. Christmas is a perfect time to give someone you care able a gift that will help them to find and know the Peace of God. With this edition of the Bible, you have 365 devotional writings that help you trace the theme of peace throughout the Bible.
I was given a copy of this lovely Bible and my intention is is joyfully share it with someone who needs or desires a Bible for their personal use. My copy is the brown leathersoft covered edition with a lovely embossed mountain scene on the cover and beautiful gilt edges to the pages. The version for the Biblical text of the Peace of God Bible is the NKJV (New King James Version) which is very close to the timeless KJV which I have always used and preferred.
Many textual features are edited in with short side-bar notes as well as articles. Readable print is a plus feature as are the words of Jesus shown in red ink.
NOTE: If the winner of this giveaway has won the same prize on another blog/promo for this Peace of God Bible, they are ineligible to win again per publicist' rules. Therefore, a 2nd winner is selected as an alternate who will be notified by publicist if the 1st winner is disqualified.
DISCLOSURE: Disclosure: Many thanks to Harper Collins Christian Publishing for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. Giveaway prize of a Peace of God Bible is provided and emailed directly to the winner by Momentum Influencer Network, publicist, or publisher on behalf of hosting site, Chat With Vera. #PeaceOfGodBibleMIN & @nelsonbibles & @_jeremiahj
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.
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
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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
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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.
My review: Books by Nancy Mehl are written with well thought out mystery and suspense, and the good guys are always evaluating and examining details to find out who the culprit is. In Dark Design we have a murderous individual that seems to be setting the stage for murder based on suspense writers' acclaimed books. I found this an interesting twist given that Ms. Mehl is an acclaimed suspense author herself. I found myself picturing Nancy with her curly white hair filling the shoes of Erin and experiencing the fear and uncertainty but also mentally trying to figure it all out.
I can hardly avoid speaking of my delight with the foodie addiction Erin has - she loves mallowbar cookies. Well, who doesn't? I've personally had to refrain from eating an entire package myself. Pure delectable marshmallow sitting atop a cookie and all drenched with melt-in-your mouth chocolate. What's not to love!
As the mystery begins to untangle with the law enforcers sifting through the information, danger seems to continue to be their companion. Fear for safety. Fear of emotional upheaval and phobias. Uncertainty. Erin is in the midst of it all. Her close friend, Kaley, provides a refuge by opening the door of her home to Erin, and Kaley also opens the door to an understanding and faith in God. There is a strong element of Christian faith and belief woven throughout the book.
I look forward to the concluding book in the Erin Delaney Mystery Series - Fatal Finale summer 2026.
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.
