Very Veggie 5-Minute Stories from WorthyKids/Ideals Publishing [Review and Giveaway]

Hardcover - 176 pages
Size: 10.8x7.8 inches
ISBN: 9780824956943

My thoughts:  Adorable! Just as fascinating and attention-grabbing as the original stories from a generation ago. My grand kids loved VeggieTales and learned so much about getting along with others and about the moral characteristics or virtues that they now as adults portray.

This large storybook comprised of VeggieTales Very Veggie 5-Minute Stories is bright and colorful using strong, primary colors. The characters (veggies - we all want our kiddies to love their veggies) are all the same as the original - bright, big eyes, great expressions, and rollicking through life in a charming and yet exciting manner.

The opening story has the veggies involved with taking a herd of cows around a canyon. But one of them wants to break the rules and cheat (it is a test, of sorts). They now have a choice to say no to cheating or do the right thing - obey the rules.

The illustrations are wonderful and kiddies will absolutely love them. The book is geared for the ages of 3 to 6. I can also see it as a fun read for early readers to pick up and enjoy.

A choice book to add to a home collection and absolutely a positive for libraries.

About the book: Silly antics, bright illustrations, and genuine lessons collide in this irresistible collection of short VeggieTales stories. Dodge-ball-wielding cowboys, pie-baking knights, menacing mops, and more zaniness will keep kids engaged as they learn values such as patience, responsibility, and loving others. Each hilarious story can be read aloud in about five minutes, perfect for bedtime or story time.

GIVEAWAY

Begins September 22

Ends October 8 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to Continental USA addresses only.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review of my own opinions which are freely given.

My First Book of Prayers [Review & Giveaway - Cont. USA]

ISBN: 9780824916831
$6.99 Board Book
WorthyKids/Ideals Pub.

My thoughts:  This is such a sweet book and ideal in my opinion. The short little prayers are familiar to many of us as prayers from our own childhood or that of our children. The illustrations are sweet, simple drawings that capture those moments when children engage in talking with God.

The first prayer in the book is one I taught each of our five children. To me it is quite the essence of a child's prayer. The child asks, "Lord, teach a little child to pray." This acknowledges  (and teaches the child to know he needs to learn to pray) that God, the Lord, can teach him, a little child, to pray.

That touches deeply the heart of the parent as well.

Then it asks the Lord to "accept my prayer." The child asks to be "taught," to have his prayer "accepted," and he acknowledges that God "hears the words he says," and finally that God "is everywhere."

To me this set the stage for the beautiful prayers that follow. This little board book is truly a gem and will easily become a family treasure.

About the book:  With ten short prayers, this introduction to the act of praying will fast become a family favorite. “Now I lay me down to sleep” and other classic prayers show children how simple and reassuring talking to God can be. Each prayer is written in soothing verse and is accompanied by Gillian Flint’s soft and comforting watercolor illustrations. Newly illustrated and reformatted from its previous edition to better suit today’s families, this collection of prayers is a timeless treasure. For ages 2 to 5

GIVEAWAY

Open Continental USA addresses

Begins September 7

Ends September 19 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

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DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by WorthyKids/Ideals Publishing to facilitate this review of my own opinions. They are given freely.

Journey to Jericho, The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls #4 [Review and Giveaway]

My thoughts: Summer of 2017 saw the launch of the children's series "The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls" which is Biblically based and highly readable for kids ages 6 to 9. Now Book #4 in the series "Journey to Jericho" is out and ready for great reading fun.

Written in a type of escapism the stories still capture the essence of the Biblical time and place and the actual persons and activities of the story being told. In "Jericho" we venture forth with siblings Peter and Mary in a bit of "time travel."

First of all, this is a far-fetched and fun story that places a modern pair of kids smack into a Biblical event thousands of years ago. They don't enter this realm as kids of that time and place; no, they enter as spies that help Joshua (remember the Ram's horn was blown 7 times before the walls of Jericho fell). They converse with Joshua. They have the help of the Angel Michael. They fight an evil man in black identified as Satan.

So you may have to help you child understand that while the Bible event did happen and did happen very much as it is written into this story, there was no Peter or Mary (or cute Hank, their dog) present to help matters along.

They are hidden by Rahab when she hides the spies from Jericho men coming to look for spies. Of course, Rahab really did hide the spies, this book just includes Peter and Mary in the adventure.

The reading is good and very age appropriate. It is an adventure with really eye catching illustrations sprinkled throughout. A cute book. I would advise parents, though, to be sure they help their child understand the difference between this one and the actual Biblical account. At the end of the book, there is a nice listing of where in the Bible to find the specific events. This is a real help.

About the book: “In Journey to Jericho, Peter, Mary, and Hank travel to the ancient desert—just as the Israelites are about to enter the Promised Land. The time travelers join a secret spy mission to Jericho, help sneak Rahab to safety, and face the scheming Man in Black. Can they solve the secret of the scroll before the city walls begin to crumble?”

About the series: The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls series follows siblings Peter and Mary and their dog, Hank, as they discover ancient scrolls that transport them back to exciting moments in Bible history.

GIVEAWAY

Begins August 30

Ends September 10 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to Continental USA addresses only.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given. Publisher: WorthyKids/Ideals

Museum of the Bible Books Collection: Colors in the Bible & Numbers in the Bible [Review & 2-Book Giveaway]

Colors in the Bible (find it here)

My thoughts: This little children's board book definitely differs from the usual "learn your colors" book. I was fascinated that each color was associated with a Bible story and the story told in text and illustration was geared to the target age group.

We don't stop and think about specific colors in the Bible since we usually focus on the lesson to be learned from the Bible story or learn the facts of the Bible story itself. This is a new way to learn colors and associate them as "points of reference" to a specific Bible story. I like this concept. I like, too, that the Biblical reference for each of the stories is provided. The whole story is not given. Just a "sentence" or so that illustrates the "color" connection.

I highly recommend this board book for families and churches.

About the book: “Take a colorful tour of favorite Bible stories! Little ones will learn their colors as they discover green trees in the Garden of Eden, orange lions in the den, and the red flames of the burning bush. Created with fresh, modern illustrations, this colors primer will captivate curious toddlers.” (board book; ages 2 to 4)

Numbers in the Bible (find it here)

My thoughts: This little children's board book definitely differs from the usual "learn to count" book. I was fascinated that each number was associated with a Bible story and the story as told in text and lively illustration was geared to the targeted age group. For example: David selected five stones for when he stood before the giant Goliath with only his slingshot. Of course, we know it only took one stone to topple Goliath.

What other numbers do you think of when you scan your  mind for a Bible story with numbers? These short stories straight from the Bible help the child identify the number, count the items, and learn that a Bible story has a particular number that can be associated with it. Another little gem is the Bible reference given for each story in the Bible. The whole story is not given. Just a "sentence" or so that illustrates the "color" connection.

I highly recommend this board book for families and churches.

About the book:  “Take a number-filled tour of favorite Bible stories! Little ones will learn their numbers as they discover one big ark, five smooth stones, and seven priests carrying seven trumpets. Created with fresh, modern illustrations, this numbers primer will captivate curious toddlers.” (board book; ages 2 to 4)

GIVEAWAY

Both books for 1 winner!

Begins March 21

Ends April 10 AT 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to Continental US only.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from WorthyKids/Ideals to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Giveaway books are provided by WorthyKids/Ideals and shipped from them directly to the winner.

That Grand Easter Day by Jill Roman Lord & illustrated by Alessia Trunfio [Review & Giveaway]

What happened the day the stone rolled away?

My thoughts: This is a very well done picture book that recounts the day of Christ's resurrection. The day is told in verse by verse rhyme that follows the cadence of an old familiar nursery rhyme (House that Jack Built). This cadence makes it easy to grab the attention of young listeners and they can repeat the lines with the reader. The verses are cumulative building with repetitions on the previous verses.

The illustrations are very nicely done and the artist has pictured the people realistically and appropriately as middle eastern in skin tone and not caucasian.

This story focuses on the discovery of the empty tomb and the Resurrection of Christ.

The book begins with John 3:16 "For God So loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." and concludes with John 10:10 "I am come that they may have life and have it to the full." (NIV version) 

I absolutely love the focus on the empty tomb and the resurrected Christ. I think this is a lovely book and recommend it. I do, however, have one small drawback which is simply personal. I don't care for the inclusion of a bunny in the story. While surely there were birds and animals in the area on resurrection day, the universally accepted inclusion of bunnies into the celebration of this very special day in the Christian year is cause for concern. In this book, the bunny is simply there and carries no significant or stated purpose.

About the book: That Grand Easter Day! is a cumulative story that begins with the stone in front of the tomb and ends with a new beginning—the Resurrection of Christ. The lively narrative builds as it progresses, adding people, objects, and animals that may have witnessed the events of that day long ago. Little ones will love the repetition, which adds a pleasing level of predictability and helps to make the story of the first Easter more memorable. The upbeat, reverent story is accompanied by luminous illustrations which bring the story to life. This engaging picture book will be a read-aloud favorite at Eastertime and throughout the year.

GIVEAWAY

Begins February 8

Ends February 19 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to Continental USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from WorthyKids/Ideals to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own, alone, and are freely given.

Very Veggie Bedtime Prayers from WorthyKids/Ideals Publishing [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts: This lightly padded board book is so cute with the loveable Veggie characters. Their enduring charm brings a love for veggies (some kids don't like veggies but maybe cute veggies will entice them) with the joyful reading of these sweet prayers.

Ending the day with prayer for the blessings of the day and for the keeping during the night is a favorite to tuck a child into bed. Their mind and heart are filled with gentle love for the Lord when they put their trust in Him and pray to Him.

On some pages there is a little printed "tab" with a short verse of Scripture that directs the thoughts to God's promises (verses from NLT):

"For each day he carries us in his arms" Psalm 68:19
"In peace I will lie down and sleep." Psalm 4:8
"I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me." Psalm 23: 4
"God gives rest to His loved ones." Psalm 127:2

This is a sturdy book suited for little hands and lots of handling and carrying about. The thoughts and insights are also suitable for children beyond the young toddler age. So a lot of reading and loving can be found in this little book.  While the verses are not on a par with the classic children's prayers that have been handed down through the generations, they are good and can strongly impact the young child positively.

About the book: In this book, familiar VeggieTales characters accompany rhyming, kid-friendly prayers. Little ones will learn how to talk to God and will be reassured that God cares for them day and night. (Padded board book; ages 2 to 5)

Giveaway

Begins January 23

Ends February 5 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Continental US only

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Worthy Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Winner's copy will be sent directly to them by the publisher.

The Stable Cat's Christmas by Christina Vrba and illustrated by Gail Yerrill [Review and Giveaway]

My thoughts: Kittens are cute and cats are cute and some people simply love having cats around as house pets. So this Christmas story will certainly appeal to them. It takes place in the "stable" where the Christ Child was born and is purportedly what the animals that were present felt and did - the shepherd's dog, the "barn or stable cat, the cow.

Certainly not Biblical in content, it is a cute story telling what each animal can give the King (the Christ Child). The primary character is the sandy colored cat and his transformation into the stripped Tabby Cat.

The story is abundant in sweetness and gentleness and the pictures are softly lovely. It is similar to other stories about the animals present when the Christ Child was born but does include a fable or legend or made up tale of how the Tabby Cat got it's lovely stripes.

About the book: One night in Bethlehem, a small, dust-colored cat returns to her stable to find that a Baby has been born in the night. As all the animals tell the cat about the gifts they gave the Christ Child, the cat sadly concludes that she is too little and powerless to give a gift to the King. But when the Baby shivers and the cat leaps into the manger to comfort him, she discovers that she can give the best gift of all—herself. This timeless Christmas book celebrates the fact that everyone has a gift they can give the King, no matter their size or stature. Enchanting illustrations and a heartfelt message make this book a Christmas keepsake that can be enjoyed year after year.

GIVEAWAY

Begins November 30

ENDS December 12 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Worthy Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

Museum of the Bible and Worthy Kids Publishing launch book collection for children [Review & Giveaway]

The Museum of the Bible has now opened in Washington, DC and it would truly be a fabulous place to visit and learn of the Bible's impact on the World through the centuries. And as with most museums, there is a gift shop and most children (adults, too) love to bring home something special to recall their visit to the museum.

Worthy Publishing has a new book imprint - Museum of the Bible books. This new selection of books will feature a variety of books including illuminated portions of the Bible, children's books, and historical volumes. I am featuring four of the children's books that will be found in the Museum of the Bible and in other places where you love to purchase books. And Chat With Vera readers will also be given the opportunity to win one book of their choice from the featured four books.

Children of the World Storybook Bible (hardcover; ages 5 to 8; 256 pgs): A unique storybook Bible that pairs one hundred best-loved Bible stories with artwork from children in over sixty countries around the world.

 My thoughts: Children love books with lots of illustrations that help them to understand the story. And children love to draw and color. Combining the two, you have this new Children's Bible Storybook with stories from the Bible told so they can be read by young readers or for read aloud time. Beautifully written text that is easy to understand yet not so simple that one's intelligence is not challenged.  

Some stories usually left out of children's Bible storybooks are included. Sodom and Gomorrah, The Golden Calf, Achan and the Battle at Ai, etc.  

There is a wonderful People and Places Index at the back of the book and a story Table of Contents at the front. These help readers locate stories and information they wish to read or reread. There is also a two-page spread of Country Map of the World at the back of the book that will be a fun learning tool and highlight.  

The Art: A unique and very important feature of this book is that the illustrations are done by children from all across the World. Credit is given to each and every child for his or her drawing with their first name, age, and the country they are from.

This is definitely a winner! 

What’s the Bible All About? (board book; ages 2 to 5): This powerful introduction gives young children a “big picture” understanding of the Bible—from what it is, to how it was written, to the stories it tells.

My thoughts: This is a highly unusual board book for the young child in that it presents the history of the Bible as it involves different faiths and speaks to the original written Bible being on scrolls. The manner in which this history of the Bible is presented is exceptionally well done for the young child's introduction to the Bible and how it in its various forms is for the Jewish, Christian, and Catholic Christian. Quite different for the young child but entirely appropriate and will provide parents of different faiths an opportunity to address with their child this remarkable book's history. 

I highly recommend.

Wild and Wacky Things in the Bible (paperback; ages 6 to 9; 160 pgs): This book explores the story behind weird and wacky Bible happenings with intriguing facts and bold artwork.

My thoughts: Laid out in attention grabbing microbites of information with short text giving the Wild and Wacky Thing on each two-page spread and the biblical reference for the story, there are other coordinated facts, activities, and Did You Know? areas of information that will add so much fun and learning of science as well as Biblical information. 

Mom and Dad will be interested in this wealth of information that makes delving into Scripture so much fun with lots of emphasis on educational entertainment.

That’s So Weird! (paperback; ages 5 to 8; 112 pgs): Geared to emerging readers, this fun and fascinating book of trivia teaches young children about the whos, whats, and whys of the Bible with a colorful, graphic feel.

My thoughts: Visually fun to look at with it's funny graphics and bold, splashy words, the book grabs the attention of readers young and older with sure fire tantalizing facts about people, things, happenings, and whatever in the Bible that are sure to fascinate. Presented in such an entertaining method, these pertinent bits of information will certainly lead to further discussion of the actual passages from the Bible (referenced with each attention grabbing fact) that enable the reader to know the full depth and breadth of what is actually involved. This one is a sure winner.

Now one of Chat With Vera's  readers has an opportunity to have a copy of one of these children's books. At the end of the entry period a winner will be chosen and then may choose the one book of their choice. Let the fun begin...... 

GIVEAWAY

Winner may select 1 book from the 4 books reviewed

Begins November 6

ENDS November 20 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to Continental USA addresses only.

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Publisher and Museum of the Bible Information - Museum of the Bible is an innovative, global, educational institution whose purpose is to invite all people to engage with the Bible. In 2017, Museum of the Bible, which aims to be the most technologically advanced museum in the world, will open its 430,000-square-foot nonprofit museum just three blocks from the Capitol in Washington, D.C. www.MuseumoftheBible.org  Museum of the Bible Books website

Worthy Publishing Group is a privately held, independent voice in inspirational publishing, based in Nashville, TN. Worthy includes five distinct imprints: Worthy Books publishes inspirational works addressing spiritual growth, biblical study, faith and culture, biography, fiction, and specialty Bibles; Museum of the Bible Books is a partnership between Worthy and the Museum, publishing books that reveal the history, narrative, and impact of the Bible; Ellie Claire produces beautifully crafted journals, gifts, and paper expressions; Worthy Inspired publishes felt-need, spiritual growth, inspirational, and devotional books; and WorthyKids/Ideals creates colorful, interactive children’s books, including VeggieTales and Berenstain Bears, for ages 2 to 8.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided complimentary books to facilitate this review of each book and share my opinions. My opinions are freely given without compensation and are not subject to approval by publisher or author. Giveaway copy to winner will be provided directly to the winner by the publisher.

Love You Always by Eileen Spinelli [Review & Giveaway]

Hardcover - Ages  4 - 7
ISBN: 978-0824956868
Published: WorthyKids/Ideals

My thoughts:  This gentle and lovely little book exudes joyful living and encourages little ones to know and accept that they are loved. They are loved always and by a host of people. Their mama, their father, their grandparents, and on and on.

The love is there even though they are not always nice and sweet. Love is for always.

I am so encouraged by the joyful illustrations that Gillian Flint has presented using black pen lines with soft hues of gentle watercolors. The joy is in the action and in the facial expressions of the characters. Pictured are a variety of individual grown ups and children. The children range from blonds to darker skinned curly heads.

Eileen Spinelli uses simple rhymes that roll easily off the tongue with a vocabulary that young listeners will understand. I like the concept of the child being a leaf on the family tree and that family members and those outside the immediate family are included in the range of people who Love You Always. A charming book.

About the book: A love poem to a child from all the people whose love surrounds him or her

A child is a treasured leaf on a family tree, surrounded by love from mom, dad, doting grandparents, aunts and uncles, and family friends too. This sweet, reassuring picture book from Eileen Spinelli acknowledges the whole tree -- the many who are invested in a child's life -- with expressions of unconditional love from each. Heartwarming verse and charming artwork will make this book a must-buy for baby showers, birthdays, and other occasions.

(NOTE: Dark shading on images in this review are fault of Vera's Pictures. Sometimes my pictures just don't quite make it right.)

GIVEAWAY

Begins September 20

Ends October 3 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to Continental USA only.
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Author Bio: Eileen Spinelli spent Saturdays at the public library as a child, and it was there that she decided to become a writer. She’s authored more than fifty children’s books, including Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch; The Best Story; and Two to Cuddle. Eileen lives in Media, Pennsylvania. When she and her husband, Jerry, who’s also an author, are not writing, they are hanging out with their grandkids (30 and counting), playing Scrabble, reading, watching old movies, and raising Monarch butterflies.

Illustrator Bio: Gillian Flint has had a passion for drawing and creating characters for as long as she can remember, so a career in illustration was a natural path for her to take. Her work has been published in the UK, USA, and Australia for clients such as Highlights, Five Mile Press, OUP, and Little Bee Books (book forthcoming). She enjoys using watercolors, crayons, ink, and digital illustration to create a variety of artistic styles. In her spare time, Gillian enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and pottering about in the garden on sunny days.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by WorthyKids/Ideals to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own, alone and freely given. Winner's copy is provided by and shipped directly to winner by WorthyKids/Ideals.

God Our Maker Series: God Paints the World & God Loves the World by Gary Bower [Review & Giveaway]

Find it on Amazon

God Paints the World takes children on a tour of God’s colorful creation. Each spread groups nature’s animals and objects by color, such as yellow dandelions, a shining sun, and chirping finches; and brown squirrels, trees, and crunchy nuts. Parents will love this early concept board book that teaches little ones about colors and the God who created them.

My thoughts: Gary Bower continues to amaze me with his ability to create wonderful children's books. His rhyme is terrific and his gift for connecting each color with objects or critters wonderful. The rhythm of his verses is lovely and indicates a good grasp of creating verse that is without complications and catchy enough that it will engage the young listener.

Happy, playful bluebirds fly through a clear and cloudless sky.

That's what bluebirds love to do.

God, our maker, paints them BLUE.

The bright, colorful illustrations are charming and sure to please. I absolutely love God Paints the World and highly recommend it for young readers or listeners.

Find it on Amazon

God Loves the World teaches little ones that God’s children are very diverse, and very, very, loved. Regardless of their shapes and sizes, colors and ages, interests and abilities—God cares for and loves each of his wonderfully unique children. Parents and little ones will love the book’s bright illustrations and inclusive message: “God loves all so very much!”

My thoughts: In Gary Bower's God Loves the World he presents the love God has for each and every person no matter how they are built, what the color of their skin is, what part of Earth they live on, the shape of their eyes, the language they speak. God loves each of them. Also, he clearly speaks to "God is our Maker" in the rhyming story and that we are all in "our Maker's heart." 

Every person everywhere, girls and boys, both here and there,

people from across the sea, have a Maker just like me. 

Very different, yet the same. Everybody has a name.

We all need God's loving touch, God loves all so very much! 

Being a book from a Christian publishing house - Worthy Kids/Ideals an imprint of Worthy Publishing Group - it is clear that this book is intended for the Christian audience. It does not state, however, that "God our Maker" is the Christian God. Obviously, in very young children's books one can't be expected to address theology according to religions. I do, stress, however, that this is a Christian publishing group. 

I highly recommend this and wish I had had it when my children were young. I love that it addresses the differences in people and shows a lovely acceptance of those differences.

GIVEAWAY

One winner will receive both books

Begins September 8

Ends September 18 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to continental USA addresses only.

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Author Bio: Gary Bower fell in love with picture books at an early age, while sitting in his mother’s lap. As a youngster he entertained himself for hours by writing his own stories, jokes, poems, and skits. As an adult, his years of professional and volunteer experience ministering to children and teens, combined with thousands of story nights with his twelve children, have helped him polish his storytelling skills.

Illustrator Bio: Tracy Cottingham is happiest when creating pictures and patterns. After finishing her art degree, she began to sell her art for greeting cards and textiles, but creating illustrations for books is her ultimate joy. She can usually be found working at her desk, sipping coffee, and chewing on gummy candy. Tracy lives and works in London.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each book from WorthyKids/Ideals to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and freely given. Winner's books are provided by and shipped directly to the winner by the publisher.

Maverick and Me by Katherine Schwarzenegger & illustrated by Harris Phyllis

My thoughts:     This delightful children's picture book is definitely for those who love dogs and would-be dog lovers. Also, it focuses on the need to adopt a dog rather than shop for one. It weighs heavily on the appeal that little forlorn lost puppies who are neglected have on tender hearted individuals and the universal appeal of a child with a puppy.

Katherine Schwarzenegger has written a sweet story involving Maverick who is the forlorn lost and neglected puppy. Found by a caring lady who takes him to a pet store. The owner of the store encourages her to take the puppy home and clean him up a bit returning soon to an "adopt a dog" event at the store.

After little Maverick gets a bit of tender care, he still doesn't have a lot of appear to some of the pet seekers. Finally a charming little girl adopts Maverick and they are forever in love in their "forever home."

The illustrations by Phyllis Harris are sweet and charming and beautifully capture the emotions of seekers and doggies alike. The joy of being in a "forever home" is exuberantly displayed in the ending pages of the story.

A lovely book about a way to provide homes for dogs and have that sweet pet of your own without adding to the population of pets being sold in the market.

About the book:  Dog lover and animal advocate Katherine Schwarzenegger draws from her own experience with fostering and adopting dogs to create a picture book that introduces children to the concept of “adopt, don’t shop.” In the heartwarming story of Maverick and Me, Maverick is rescued by a kind-hearted stranger after being dumped on the side of the road. The little puppy’s luck takes a turn for the better when young Scarlett meets him at an adoption event. Scarlett is so moved by Maverick’s story that she and her mother decide to give him the forever home he is looking for. Each year, millions of dogs find themselves in shelters and with animal rescues through no fault of their own. Maverick will help teach children about these dogs and empower even young readers to advocate for shelter pups.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a copy by Worthy/Ideals Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and freely given.

The Beginning (The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls #1) by M.J. Thomas & illustrated by Graham Howells

On sale August 8, 2017
ISBN: 9780824956844
WorthyKids/Ideals

A Time-Traveling Adventure Series Helping Kids Discover the Bible

Bible story books teach in a variety of methods the truths of the Bible enabling children to learn and comprehend at an early age. As the child's reading skills expand they want to read chapter books and they want to be entertained. It is especially nice when these new levels of reading can also teach in an entertaining and enjoyable manner the truths of the Bible.

Mike Thomas wanted such stories for his own children so they could learn in a fun, imaginative way. Since he found none to his liking, he decided to write his own series. Hence "The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls" was born.

I don't have kiddies at home anymore, but I do have grandchildren and I do love to see Christian school libraries stocked with books that present Christian truths in a readable, fun, entertaining way. As I began reading my advance reader's copy of book one in the series, "The Beginning," I immediately saw that the writing style was easy flowing and well written using good grammar (no, this is sadly not necessarily a truism in children's books), and written as to assume the reader has intelligence and can comprehend.

The story method here is a bit of escapism and fantasy into time travel where they, Peter and Mary and the dog, go back to the beginning - the Creation - and..... well, you simply must read it yourself, won't you? There are 107 pages with a sprinkling of cute illustrations and the age 6 to 9 reader will surely enjoy.

Pre-order Book #1 or Book #2 in The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls & receive exclusive digital content. Hurry! Offer expires on August 8, 2017. Check exclusives & how to pre-order @http://bit.ly/HiddenScrolls

About the book: The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls series follows siblings Peter and Mary and their dog, Hank, as they discover ancient scrolls that transport them back to key moments in biblical history.

In the first adventure in the series, Peter and Mary find themselves witnesses to the creation of the world just as God is speaking it into existence. Can they unlock the mystery of the scrolls before they get trapped in history forever? Children will discover the answer as the two characters ride rhinos, meet the angel Michael, and talk to a certain snake in the Garden of Eden. Riveting text and engaging illustrations bring this beloved Bible story to riotous life.

Happy author with his books in
Christian book store in Tennessee

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary advance readers copies to facilitate this review and promotional activities. I was not compensated. Opinions are my own.

Daddy's Girl by Helen Foster James & illustrated by Estelle Corke [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN-13: 978-0824956813
Hardcover - Ages 3 - 7

My thoughts: Sheer delight! This lovely picture book captures the essence of a charming little girl who dearly loves her Daddy. She is all girly with frilly clothes, beads, hats and behavior. She excitedly goes about preparing for a tea party with her Daddy so it will be ready when he arrives home.

Having raised three girls, I know their charm and their ability to throw themselves into the business of being a little girl and lovingly looking forward to their Daddy's arrival at the end of the day.

Illustrated in soft, yet distinct pastels the cuteness and charm of this little girl is captured. The sweet love between daughter and father is evident. She is not just going to have a tea party, she is going to party with her Daddy (and Teddy Bear).

Not included in the story, but quite evident from the little girl having all the tools to be so girly (beads, dress, tea set, bling, boa, etc.) that she has a mother that has shown by example the joy of being a girl.

The rhyming story simply leaps from the page with joy and the last line resonates...... 'Daddy, tea is best with you."

About the book: What’s more fabulous than a tea party? Tea with Daddy, of course! This exuberant story begins before the honored guest arrives, with much ado—preparing, decorating, and accessorizing. And when Daddy makes his entrance, it’s clear that the little hostess couldn’t be more thrilled. Perfect for daddy-daughter reading time, this new picture book and its warm conclusion are sure to serve up smiles and tug at heartstrings.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Worthy Kids Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and freely given. Prize copy is provided directly to the winner by publisher.