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

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

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

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