An Advent treasure - "The One We're Waiting For: Illustrated Advent Devotional for Families"

As you begin thinking about Christmas 2025, you may want to plan a special emphasis for your family for the entire month of December focusing your family's devotional time around the Coming of Christ. Or perhaps you want to "gift" a young family the means to focus on Christ's Advent with a meaningful and beautiful book of devotionals.

The One We're Waiting For: Illustrated Advent Devotional for Families

Create meaningful Advent memories with the whole family using this gorgeous illustrated 25-day devotional.

My thoughts:  First of all, this book of short devotionals for the young family is not just a compilation of  "Christmas" stories about the birth of Christ.  The stories point to "the One we're waiting for." They start at the beginning with Adam and Eve and move through the Old Testament with the call of Abraham, Joseph's coat of many colors, the giving of the Law, etc. And it all points to Christ.

Short discussion questions to guide family discussion are at the end of each story and a suggested song to sing. 

At the back of the book are pages with illustrations printed in circles that may be cut out and glued on wooden or acrylic discs to make ornaments to hang on a Christmas tree. (Note: Care will need to be taken to remove pages with these on them.) 

This is a beautifully bound book with illustrations that are modern yet classic. The book will last for years and be a blessing to pass down through the family.

About the book: The whole Bible whispers about a coming King. Every book before His arrival gives hints about what He might be like, and during Advent, families around the world gather to wait and prepare for the celebration of His birth. The One We're Waiting For is a 25-day family experience that will help kids from one to ninety-two anticipate and celebrate Christmas. This book includes

• Daily Bible stories, taking families through the arc of the Old Testament
• Gorgeous illustrations by Aedan and Natalie Peterson
• Suggested songs for family worship
• Reflection questions to start meaningful conversations
• And cut-out ornaments to decorate your tree every day leading up to Christmas

​Each day, families can read a story, discuss how they see Jesus in Old Testament narratives, sing songs together, and place an illustrated ornament on the tree so that every day of December leading up to Christmas is filled with eager anticipation for the King––the one we waited for.

Read a Sample - Click Here 

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✨GIVEAWAY✨

Begins September 12

Ends October 13 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only. 

The One We're Waiting For: Illustrated Advent Devotional for Families

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided by and mailed to winner by B&H Publishing or their representative. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Forest School: Moonlit Campout & Big Fort ... books for little ones to learn & enjoy

Forest School: The Big Fort by Ruth Symons

ISBN: 97/1536238709
Templar Books/Candlewick Press
Hardcover $14.99 US

My thoughts:  I'm not a fan of digitally created art, but the Forest School illustrations are cute and definitely get the story or text's point across. I think children will enjoy them.

In The Big Fort forest creatures are gathered for an educational session taught by Owl on construction of a fort. This qualifies as a beginner's survival instruction that a parent might give to his children.

Kids love to build forts. Forts in the living room made out of blankets. Forts in the backyard for camping out or establishing their territory (all fun 'n games stuff). Owl's instructions are good and to the point. This is a fun book that has the overtone of educating children on safe camping or beginning survival in the woods.

About the book: Deep in the woods, the friends are gathering. It's time for Owl’s Forest School!

Join Mouse, Squirrel, Fox, and Rabbit for a forest school adventure. Today, the group is learning how to build a fort! Out in the woods, they can learn about wildlife, try something new, and get creative with a few problem-solving challenges. This book will have little ones itching to get outdoors and have adventures of their own. Embracing the Forest School focus on play and exploration—and written in consultation with a Forest School expert—this series will appeal to readers whether or not they’ve been to Forest School before.

Forest School: The Moonlit Campout by Ruth Symons

ISBN: 9781536241235
Templar Books/Candlewick Press
Hardcover $14.99 US

My thoughts:  This Forest School book, The Moonlit Campout is really good; and while it typifies a "school" outing, I can see a family interpretation with Dad at the reins taking the kids overnight camping in the forest or simply a great backyard campout.

The book teaches with an entertaining story how to build a fire, heat up cocoa and treats over the fire, and see the stars. Lots of information and lots of fun.

About the book: Deep in the woods, the friends are gathering. It's time for Forest School.

Join Mouse, Squirrel, Fox, and Rabbit for a little Forest School adventure. Out in the woods, they can learn about wildlife, try something new, get creative, and—of course—make friends! Today they are learning all about camping. Embracing the Forest School focus on play and exploration, and written with an expert consultant, this series will have little ones itching to get outdoors and have adventures of their own.

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

Children's Sparkly Sticker Books from Kregel Publishing are fabulous gifts [Review & Giveaway]

Looking for quality entertainment that teaches little kids about the Bible in a fun, interactive way (even "sparkly") for colder weather "inside time" or for Christmas gifting? Kregel Publishing has an assortment of "Sparkly Sticker Books" perfect for this.

I have never seen a child that doesn't love stickers and glitter. Combine this with learning about the Bible and combining hands on play/education parents have a win-win fun activity for their youngster.

Pros:

• These "sparkly" sticker books don't "shed" the glittery stuff the way most glitter sheds. Just love this aspect, too.
• The illustrations are charming, fun, attention garnering. The text of the story is simply stated and not overly long for youngsters.
• Bible stories come to life at their fingertips.
• Talk about the story and what it means to be children of God. 
• The book also includes references for all eight story spreads, and words for each of the seventy-five stickers.

I absolutely love these sticker books and encourage you to purchase one, two, or more for children you love.

Bible Friends: Sparkly Sticker Book

Bible Wonders: Sparkly Sticker Book

About the Sparkly Sticker Books: Make Bible stories come to life in a sparkly new way! Now girls and boys ages four and up can finish their favorite Bible scenes by finding stickers and matching them with the missing spots. They will feel like they've made their very own book and will enjoy reading it over and over again!

As kids develop their stickering and reading skills, parents can join in the fun by talking about the story and what it means to be children of God. The book also includes references for all eight story spreads, and words for each of the seventy-five stickers.

Author: Jacob Vium-Olesen is the CEO of Scandinavia Publishing House and has authored several children's books, including My First Memory Verse Bible and Good Night God.

GIVEAWAY

2 Sparkly Sticker Books

Begins September 6

Ends September 30 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

2 Children's Sparkly Sticker Books from Kregel Publishing, SRV $15.98 Total

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

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. We hereby release Facebook of any liability. Winner(s) will be contacted by email 48 hours after the giveaway ends. Notification email used will be that which is registered to the Gleam system.  Prize must be CLAIMED by winner within 48 hours or prize is forfeited and a new winner will be chosen. Author, publicist, or publisher is responsible for providing and shipping the prize to the winner. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

More books on birds from Eerdmans Books for Young Readers

Birds are fascinating. Birds are beautiful. Birds eat insects that are pests. And here on the cusps of Fall and the promise of cooler and colder temperatures, they mass migrate. Watch the birds in your backyard, on the school playground, and on the ledges of buildings in cities. Be thankful for birds.

CONSIDER THE BIRDS by Jennifer Grant & illustrated by Julianna Swaney

ISBN: 9780802855626
Eerdmans Young Readers

My thoughts: Beautiful illustrations gently bring life to the tender, descriptive text that characterizes each bird and what the bird is doing. There is such a sweetness to the pictures and words. The bold, bossy Bluejay; the loving Morning Doves; the skittish Chickadees; and the tiny, brave Wrens. The beautiful book layout with the gentle illustrations is sheer loveliness.

A bit of information about each bird's habit or traits. A bit of counting opportunities, though this isn't a "counting book." A suggestion to "Consider" the birds and how God cares for them. A wrap up that "God loves you....."

Truly a precious book.

About the book:  Book 1 of the Consider series, a new picture book series celebrating nature and inviting gratitude.

On a spring day at the birdfeeder, ONE blue jay dives down from way up high, shouting: “Eat! Eat! Eat!” TWO mourning doves scout for seeds on the ground. Next to swoop in are THREE tiny black-capped chickadees, ready for a quick bite. Then we spot FOUR little wrens in a tree—joined by a cardinal to make FIVE. Come count these birds with me!

This lyrical book is a gentle invitation to discover the wonders of nature and the love of God. Jennifer Grant’s simple text and Julianna Swaney’s endearing art will encourage readers to slow down and marvel at the amazing world around them.

Fly Like a Bird (Spectacular STEAM for Curious Readers (SSCR)) by Olga Ptashnik

ISBN: 9780802856456
Eerdmans Young Readers

My thoughts:  We have a young Chickadee worried about being able to fly. It's almost time to "wing it" but he's afraid he won't be able to. Hence, the beginning conversation between the little Chickadee and an older one (mother or father bird?). 

The way a variety of different birds are able to fly and how fast, high, lots of wing action, little wing action, or even not flying at all is brought to light; and the little Chickadee responds with the realization that it wouldn't work for him and how about something else.

Ultimately, do decides to try and finds that his wings work just fine and he's flying.

This is a different type of educational picture book that works, though I'm not particularly fond of it. The illustrations are adequate to pair with the text though the style is not a style I favor. All-in-all, a good book for libraries and I am sure many will love it.

About the book: A playful tour through the flight patterns of pelicans, peregrine falcons, and other incredible birds.

“What if I never learn to fly?” a baby chickadee asks. “You will when the time comes!” an adult answers. “Let me tell you about how our friends fly.” Will the chick fly like a hummingbird—moving its wings at top speed and sipping nectar from flowers? Will it fly like an Andean condor—using air streams to soar through the mountains? Will it fly like a penguin—flapping its wings like fins underwater? Maybe this tiny chickadee can find its own way to fly.

With vibrant illustrations and incredible facts about each feathered friend, Fly Like a Bird is a thrilling introduction to life on the wing. This warm, conversational book is perfect for nature lovers, aspiring birdwatchers, and anyone who’s ever wondered how to soar into the future.

Other books about birds I've reviewed from Eerdman's Books for Young Readers:

• The Birds of Christmas - My review There's a Giveaway ending Sept. 16. Please visit review & enter giveaway.
• Home by Isabelle Simler - My review 
• The Blue Hour - My review

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary books to facilitate their review from Candlewick Press. Opinions expressed are mine, alone and are freely given.

At the Window by Hope Lim & illustrated by Qin Leng [Candlewick Press]

My thoughts:  At the Window is a beautifully illustrated encounter of a young girl that daily walks the dog in the neighborhood and passes a house at which the window is not curtained and is always occupied by a lady occupied with tasks at her desk or table. Eventually, a casual "hello" relationship develops until..... then the "story" begins to develop depth.

Written with easy flow text the "take aways" for me are....

• Daily responsibilities carried out with delight and faithfulness
• Attention to detail of surroundings
• Encouragement to encounter others with gentle friendliness
• Awareness of surroundings
• Grasp of another's view
• Understanding of vastness a different view can give one when you look at surroundings from another vantage point.

Of course, that isn't all "spelled out" in the story, but I do find these ideas in the theme of the story and the beautiful illustrations.

I think this an ideal book for all libraries and personal collections for children that are given the privilege of walking the dog.

About the book: Spare, layered text and soft, shimmering watercolor illustrations reveal how curiosity—and a change in perspective—can light up the world and forge surprising friendships.

Every day, a child walking a dog around the block passes a woman seated in her wide front window. What is she doing? What does she see? Days pass, and the two neighbors exchange smiles, nods, and waves. Soon they’re calling out “Hello!” But one day, the child finds the wide window empty and a For Sale sign on the lawn. When the opportunity to look out through, instead of up into, that now-lonely window arrives, the rewards ripple out in heartwarming ways. This wondrous and beautifully illustrated picture-book ode to intergenerational friendship invites readers to reflect on how a different frame of reference can utterly transform the familiar and lead to completely new delights.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Candlewick Press, to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Praise God, All Creatures: A Doxology for Children by Dr. Jason G. Duesing & illustrated by Andrés Landazábal [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9798384517306
Board book $14.99
B&H Kids

My thoughts:  Growing up, it was a regular part of Sunday worship to sing "The Doxology." That instilled a reverence in my heart and a desire to worship God in His full Triune Being and to stand in awe of His Holiness. Today's children should also have the privilege of learning to praise God from the depth of their being. Praise God, All Creatures: A Doxology for Children is a good start for children.

Delightful illustrations aid the child in recognizing the beauty of God's creation, and how he should praise God as one of God's creations for the beautiful world in which he lives. As the book opens we read "Let everything that has breath praise the LORD!" --Psalm 150:6.

THE BIRDS OF CHRISTMAS by Olivia Armstrong & illustrated by Mira Miroslavova [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts: When we think of Christmas our thoughts go to the reason for observing the day or the season - that is, the birth of our Saviour, the Christ Child. We don't stop to think about what was going on in the natural world, other than the flocks of sheep on the hillside and possibly the animals housed in the inn's manger. All of nature may have played a role in rejoicing that The Christ Child was born. But the  Bible does not tells us anything about this. It is silent. Even so, through the years there have been stories, legends, or fables about the animals of Christmas. In this sweet book, The Birds of Christmas, there are birds that sweep and flit, chirp and flutter, and bring their gift to the babe in the manger.

Our Friendly Farmhouse (picture book, ages 4-8) [Review & Giveaway]

Tommy Nelson Books
Hardcover $18.99
ISBN: 9781400250523

My thoughts:  This is a delightful picture story about a young family that reaches for and achieves a wonderful goal of family life - building their own home in a location they cherish. Beautiful and charming illustrations bring the story to life and set the tone of happiness and joy they experienced each step of their journey.

I love that they are all involved from the initial step of acquiring the land to the planting of wildflowers and getting little chicks. Tiny ducklings swimming in the sink, kittens in the blanket, wildflowers abloom. Lovely. Charming. Sweet.

What is totally surprising is to reach the end of the book and see that this is the story of a real family and the reality of their friendly farmhouse. Love it! 

About the book: Breathe in fresh, country air and dream of a slower, simpler, sweeter life in this poetic story about building a homestead with heart from bestselling novelist Melissa Ferguson.

Something Good by Kenneth Kraegel [Candlewick Press]

 

ISBN: 9781536229448
Candlewick Press
Hardcover $17.99 US 

My thoughts:  I absolutely love this cute book. It's about a little girl whose glass isn't half full or half empty. It is totally empty as one "bad thing" after another happens to her. In short, life as she experiences - or perceives it - is devoid of anything good and just bad things happen to her.

Until.....

She happens across a little gift box for her. Good! But alas not so good after all. Inside are socks and again she perceives this as a bad thing. That is until she gets chilled and puts them on her feet. Then the good begins to explode around her. And then she finds her friend and shares a sock with her friend who, too, is cold.

Good shared is amazingly wonderful.

I love this sweet book for it's cuteness, it's genuine take on human emotion, and its joyous application of goodness shared in the human experience.

I highly recommend.

About the book: In need of a bad day remedy? One girl’s terrible day takes an unexpected—and extraordinary—turn when she comes upon a pair of magic socks.
Blah. Nothing good ever happens to me.

This morning a little girl wakes up with a chicken on her head. (Ouch.) Then she finds worms in her cereal (after she’s had a few bites—yuck!). Then she realizes, too late, that her boots are full of mud. Ack! Then her best friend ignores her, a big hole appears where it wasn’t yesterday, and it starts to rain—cold rain, of course. Could this day get any worse? When a mysterious gift shows up out of nowhere, wrapped in a bow, the girl dares to wonder if it could finally be something good. Get ready for a high-flying tale as the beloved creator of Wild Honey from the Moon brings his signature deadpan humor, quirky charm, and appealingly simple text to a fantastical adventure sure to turn even the worst days around.

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

One Big Story: Bible Stories in 5 Minutes: Connecting Christ Throughout God's Story by B&H Kids Editorial Staff & illustrated by Heath McPherson [Review & Giveaway]

 

B&H Kids / Lifeway
ISBN: 9781535947961
Buy Here

My thoughts:  Originally published several years ago, this Bible storybook has proven to be at the top of the list of dependable, Biblically sound, attractive books that children, parents, as well as Bible authorities have selected for their families or to gift to children they care about.

Finding the theme of Christ the Redeemer throughout the Bible from The Creation to the Resurrection can be brought to light for young children as they learn these familiar retellings of events and people in the Scriptures.

Divided into stories and the reading of which takes only about 5 minutes, the truth of Scripture is clearly stated and is backed with attractive, eye catching illustrations that children will love. I found the clearly stated, true to Scripture text well written and easy to understand. There is just enough text on each page to capture interest without losing the child's mental attention and engagement. The illustrations on each page fit well with the text and are such that children will be drawn to. 

I highly recommend.

About the book:   Secret word: Bible - Give kids the big picture of God’s story with One Big Story Bible Stories in 5 Minutes comprised of 12 different 5-minute stories, perfect for before bed reading. Help shape your child’s spiritual growth in an engaging One Big Storybook that features four-color illustrations, as well as pop-up imaging and story narration with a free augmented reality app.

One Big Story is a series designed to grow with families and strengthen relationships in Christ through Bible-centered, multi-platform products that engage readers of all ages.

This B&H Kids book includes a Parent Connection, an easy tool to help moms and dads (or anyone else who loves kids) discuss the book's message with their child. We're all about connecting parents and kids to each other and to God's Word. 

GIVEAWAY

Begins July 30

Ends August 29 @ Midnight

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from B&H Kids/Lifeway Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed/shipped directly to the winner by publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Winner's prize will be sent to name and address provided in required Rafflecopter entry.

Night Light (An "I like to read comics") by Michael Emberley [Review]

Hardcover $14.99
Holiday House Books
ISBN: 9780823458165

My thoughts:  Comic books are a niche in the reading world from which serious readers and academics typically shy away. As a child I looked forward to the Sunday Comic section of the newspaper and also enjoyed the frequent reading of comic books. In adult life I found the world of "real" books. There can be a place in the reading world for comic books such as Night Light. Personally, I steer clear of comic book style books, but something about Night Light beckoned to me; and now I can see that they can be quite beneficial and good for young readers and possibly reluctant readers.

This is a cute story of father and son (or older brother and younger brother) reading together a bedtime story and then the lights go out. With few words and lots of boxes of illustrations, the solution these two have to bring light back into the bedroom is innovative and charming.  Sparse text and abundant drawings take the two on a search for light. The story and illustrations gently overcome fear of the dark, stoke the imagination for a solution to gaining more light to bring brightness back, and a compassionate solution to restoring another's stolen light.

Cute. Sweet. Charming.

About the Book:  Perfect for new readers in the first grade: a comic about a child, a parent, and the magic of a starry night. By Geisel Award-Winner Michael Emberley!

A blackout! Right in the middle of “the last” bedtime story. The child cries. It’s too dark! The parent gathers stars from the sky light up the child’s room. Now someone else is crying! It’s the moon! The parent returns the stars to they sky, and parent and child pack up their blankets and pillows to sleep outside.

New readers can practice phonics reading with the silent letters "g" and "o" in words such as too, night, light, right, and tight. Children can also read about these characters in I Did It! a Theodor Geisel Award Winner and Let’s Go!, which is on the ALA Best Graphic Novels reading list.

I Like to Read Comics are perfect for kids who are challenged by or unengaged in reading, kids who love art, and the growing number of young comics fans. Filled with eye-catching art, humor, and terrific stories, these comics provide unique reading experiences for growing minds. We hope that all new readers will say, “I like to read comics!”

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Holiday House Books to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given.

Night Walk by Jason Cockeroft [Review]

ISBN: 9781536239614
Hardcover $18.99 USA
Candlewick Press

My thoughts: This is a lovely book in several aspects. While the grandfather is drawn or painted with a somewhat angular style, he is still pictured as a gentle, endearing character. He and the child go on a walk at night and this walk is special. They walk remembering all the things that the grandmother loved about her own walks - especially at night.

As they walk, they talk and wonder if each spot is grandmother's favorite. Only at the end do they find that very special spot.

The book doesn't really talk of death, but it is sensed in the sweet and sober memories of grandmother.

The illustrations of each two-page spread beautifully capture the richness of the country-side at night with lots of foliage, critters, and beautiful expanses of sky.

About the book:  This tender intergenerational story about loss and remembrance is set against the extraordinary beauty of the natural world.

In the darkness just before sunrise, a sleepy boy and his grandfather set off on Grandma’s favorite walk to find her favorite place. Is it the woods where multicolored moths flutter? Or the stream with its leaping frogs and flashing trout? The hidden hollow where a mother deer lives with her fawn? As grandfather and grandchild stand gazing over the water to the horizon, and the sun begins to rise, it becomes clear to the boy that they’ve finally reached Grandma’s favorite place—and it’s the perfect spot to remember her. With stunning illustrations evoking the wonder of wild creatures, the chill of the air at dawn, and the golden light of the sun as it rises, author-illustrator Jason Cockcroft captures a quiet moment in one child’s life that will long reverberate.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Candlewick Press, to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Lily the Pond Mermaid by Lucy Fleming (Author, Illustrator) - Review

 

My thoughts:  This is a sweet, charming, lovely read for young children; and it is beautifully illustrated. Stories about mermaids fall into the category of myths and legends and are slightly akin to fairy tales. In short, they are totally make-believe.

Lily the Pond Mermaid takes the "fish" out of the sea but keeps her in the water. Though landlocked in a little pond, "Lily" has a personality that is loving, kind, gentle, and giving. She loves to watch out for all the critters in the pond. She cares for them. She worries about them. She solves problems for them. And one dark day there is a major storm when the rain falls and the wind blows. Lily and the critters take shelter in the little niches under the pond to stay safe from the storm.

Afterward, Lily sees the havoc the storm brought and is over-wrought. This is when her critter friends step in and help Lily.

A lovely book and a really sweet story about caring for others and bringing joy into the lives of others. I am concerned about the level of despair and worry Lily experiences and how this will impact the young minds and hearts for which this story is written. Is it too much? Is it right to talk outright about worry to children who know nothing about it or are experiencing it? Well, that's an issue each parent must address within their own homes. Again, I repeat, this is a sweet and lovely book.

About the book: Friendship, worries, and newfound courage all play a part in this underwater tale of a tiny mermaid heroine.

“I’ll always be here;

there’s no need to fear.

All will be well when

a pond mermaid’s near.”

Lily the pond mermaid loves taking care of her pond and all the creatures that call it home. But it’s also a big responsibility. Lily often worries about not being able to keep the pond—and everyone in it—safe. As her worries grow, a big storm hits the pond, and everything becomes covered in a tangle of debris. Luckily, Lily is able to share her feelings with her friends and ask for help. Together, Lily and the animals that live in the pond not only restore their home but also learn how to take care of one another.

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

K9 Mattis on the Job: A Day in the Life of a Police Dog by Mark Tappan [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9781400246588
Hardcover $18.99 US
Tommy Nelson (Thomas Nelson Pub.)

My thoughts:  Mattis is a real dog and Mark Tappan is a real person, a policeman, and the handler of Mattis. They are real and they provide a fantastic service to the people in the area in which they live.

In this informative and delightful children's picture book, K9 Mattis On the Job: A Day in the Life of a Police Dog, we see how a trained German Shepherd dog is incorporated into the activities and services of the police. We see his exuberance, antics, skills, and abilities to engage. The story-line doesn't show real on-the-job rescues or criminal-nabbing, but it does show how a trained dog can mesh seamlessly into the day-to-day office and field work of a police department that uses K9 "officers" as well a real men. The book shows community service of education in the school demonstrating to students the fun of a K9 Police Dog as well as the dog's tracking and finding abilities.

Cheerfully and exuberantly illustrated, K9 Mattis and his human, Sergeant Mark Tappan, go through the day either in service of rescue or nabbing criminals, education in the community, or simply training and practicing. I think kids will thoroughly enjoy this educational book.

About the book: Meet Mattis, a K9 police dog who loves helping people and fighting crime alongside his partner, Sergeant Mark. Learn what Mattis's favorite part of the day is as he follows scent trails, tracks down missing items, and performs his official police work. K9 Mattis on the Job from author and police sergeant Mark Tappan will captivate kids as they discover what a day in the life of a German shepherd police dog is all about. Real-life hero Mattis the K9 officer first captured America's hearts on A&E's America's Top Dog and at school visits across the country. Now, through this fun story based on Mattis's official police work, kids will find out what this pup loves to do each day, from driving to the police station in the morning (okay, Sergeant Mark does most of the driving) to training with the other officers to using his super sniffer to find missing items! But can you guess what Mattis's favorite part of the day is? This picture book Find out why so many have already fallen in love with one of America's fluffiest heroes!

GIVEAWAY

Begins July 1

Ends July 30 @ Midnight

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed/shipped directly to the winner by publisher, Tommy Nelson, or publicist. Secret word: rescue Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Rules/Disclosure: This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. We hereby release Facebook of any liability. Winner(s) may be contacted by email 48 hours after the giveaway ends. Notification email used will be that which is registered to the Rafflecopter system.  Prize must be CLAIMED by winner within 48 hours or prize is forfeited and a new winner will be chosen. Author, publicist, or publisher is responsible for providing and shipping the prize to the winner. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Alternate method of prize notification and sending: If an entry is provided in the Rafflecopter giveaway widget to provide entrant's name and address to which prize is to be sent, then that will be to whom and where prize is sent. Winner may or may not be notified by email that they have won. Chat With Vera and owner of Chat With Vera are not responsible for distribution and provision of prizes.

Ramon Fellini the Dog Detective by Guilherme Karsten (An introduction to the mystery genre, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers) [Giveaway & Review]

Definition: The mystery genre is a genre of fiction that follows a crime (like a murder or a disappearance) from the moment it is committed to the moment it is solved. 

ISBN: 9780802856364
$18.99 Hardcover
Eerdmans Young Readers Books

My thoughts:  A really cute book that introduces young children to the art of solving a mystery - in short who-dun-it! As with most if not all young children, our young boy main character (aside from the self-inserted detective) is quite trusting of what he is told by others. So when disaster strikes and his beloved gold fish crashes down the stairs and a feline appearing detective knocks at his door announcing he is there to solve the mystery, the search for the culprit begins. The night visitor identifies himself as the "Dog Detective."

Young boy can see with his own eyes that this is a CAT but is told the visitor, a detective, is a dog in disguise as a cat. So the deception begins.

This wily cat identifies himself as a dog and proceeds to solve the mystery.

I really liked the book and see it as entertainment; and, yes, also an introduction to the mystery genre for children. I do, though, also see it as a wonderful opportunity for parents to teach discernment to young children. Children need to trust but they also need to learn discernment.

About the book: A hilarious introduction to the mystery genre, starring a boy, his fish, and a whiskered detective in disguise.

A little boy’s aquarium has been attacked, and his poor fish is terrified! Secret word: Meow - Who could be behind this horrible crime? Never fear: Ramon Fellini is on the case! This brave dog has donned his cleverest cat costume in order to track down the culprit. How does Fellini know a cat is to blame? Why does he say strange things like “Does this house have any other fish?” No time for such questions—Fellini is about to reveal the truth! Unless the ace detective has a different agenda in mind…

With dramatic colors, ironic humor, and plenty of clues to discover in the art, this whodunit is a laugh-out-loud read for pet lovers. Children will love using their own sleuthing skills to solve the mystery and predict what Detective Ramon Fellini does next.

I am "borrowing" this delightful video from The Poet and Dragon Society's YouTube page. It is theirs and I have no ownership or rights to it. I simply thought it too delightful for my readers not to have the opportunity to see. Enjoy!

GIVEAWAY

Begins June 24

Ends July 23 @ Midnight EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Toto by Hyewon Yum (ages 4-8)

My thoughts:  Written and illustrated with superb gentleness and grace, Toto breaks into the heart of a child's concern and need to be accepted for just what she is and not what she appears to be.

Graced with a red, facial birthmark from infancy this sweet little girl wonders if she is pretty, if people like her, and other worries. She has named her red birthmark "Toto." When she begins school her mother cuts bangs to help hide "Toto" not because it is offensive, but to allow the grace of time for acceptance of her difference.

In school she makes a friend and is so happy until one day "Toto" is discovered. The outcome is that it doesn't matter to her friend at all and is declared an asset.

A lovely book and I highly recommend it. You'll enjoy the sweet black and white illustrations for they simplistic style with bits of red mingled in.

About the book: A little girl is self-conscious about the birthmark on her forehead— until a new friend helps her see it in a whole new light.

This little girl doesn’t mind her birthmark, most of the time. She calls it Toto, and her mom calls it a kiss from an angel. But sometimes, it feels like people look so hard at Toto they forget to see her. So when it’s time to start school, her mom cuts her bangs to cover Toto up, at least for a little while.

At school, she makes a new best friend right away! But then Toto accidentally comes out of hiding. Will her new friend see her differently with Toto in the picture? And does different have to be bad?

Award-winning creator Hyewon Yum’s knack for the adorable is at full power in Toto. This warm and vulnerable story grapples with the pressure we feel to blend in, and celebrates the moments—and the friends—that remind us how much better it is to be our full and singular selves.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Holiday House Books to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

His Fairytale Life (A Book About Hans Christian Andersen) by Jane Yolen & illustrated by Brooke Boynton-Hughes [Review]

My thoughts:  The author, Jane Yolen and illustrator, Brooke Boynton-Hughes, magically opens the story of the sad life of the master storyteller, Hans Christian Andersen, with a simple statement and explosive and dream-like spray of beautiful illustrations. Simply put, his mother couldn't read but was a grand teller of stories and his life was stressed with poverty and disappointment. 

Neal Porter Books
Holiday House Publishing
ISBN: 9780823451036
Hardcover $18.99 US

He finally began his schooling with the little ones but he was a gangly teen. His life was sad, so sad. The illustrations are extraordinarily appealing and beautiful capturing the pure essence of Andersen's life in a mind filled with stories just waiting to come out.

His stories became legendary as did the man himself long after he died. Such is often the plight of an artist. Andersen's life was so very sad but his mind and his stories brought such joy to the world. This retelling for young children is excellent.

About the book: The storyteller becomes the story in this illuminating biographical picture book of Hans Christian Andersen, father of the modern fairy tale.

A century and a half have passed since Hans Christan Andersen’s death, but his stories are more alive than ever. Across languages, borders, and disciplines, his timeless creations have left a footprint beyond measuring. Now, come along back to the beginning and meet the human that came before the legend.

He was a boy

who lived with a mother

who could not read,

but remembered every fairy tale

she’d been told…

Appropriately penned by Jane Yolen, who Newsweek has called “the Hans Christian Andersen of America,” His Fairytale Life is as immersive and transporting as all good fairy tales should be. Each page sings with Brooke Boynton-Hughes’s dazzlingly intricate illustrations. Classics lovers and Disney fanatics alike will cherish this dreamy tome.

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

When I Hear Spirituals by Cheryl Willis Hudson & illustrated by London Ladd [Review]

When I Hear Spirituals by Cheryl Willis Hudson & illustrated by London Ladd

Holiday House Publications
ISBN: 9780823453801
Hardcover $18.99

My thoughts:  Having been raised as a Southern white girl, I remember many of these songs. Spirituals. Soulful songs. I remember learning a little of the history behind some of them. Perhaps some will say it is wrong for a southern white child to learn to sing these spirituals so steeped with African American history. But we did sing them in school. No one made fun of them. No one talked ill about them. They were sung in music class as a means of teaching us a form of music whose epic history belonged to the South and a part of history with which we should be acquainted.

As I grew older, I learned more of the history and the people connected to this music and sorrow filled my own being to think of their sadness and pain and suffering. I was glad, though, that they had a spiritual connection to the God who could deliver them from their sorrows.

This book is a treasure to teach children of all races about the music that encouraged and brought a whisper of hope to those who sang it. There is a darkness in the book through the visual art and that is good because that was a dark period in history and there was darkness hovering over the African Americans. But in this darkness they sang of the undergirding strength they found in their faith as their spirits connected to God.

Libraries need this book. 

About the book: Your spirit will soar! A girl connects with heritage, history, and a higher power through the lyrics of twelve beloved spirituals and four seminal events in African American history.

A beautiful keepsake to be shared by multiple generations.

When I hear spirituals

Sometimes

A big, full feeling

Grows in my chest . . .

Her heart pounds, she gets a lump in her throat, and tears flow down her cheeks. She wants to clap her hands and stomp her feet. There is healing, tenderness, strength, pride, and above all, hope.

The author of the classic picture book Bright Eyes, Brown Skin, Cheryl Willis Hudson, has woven together lyrics of twelve timeless, Black spirituals with a moving exploration of how music holds memories, emotions, and empowerment.

Songs include “Go down, Moses,” “Nobody Knows the Troubles I See,” “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child,” “Rock-a-My Soul,” “Get on Board, Little Children,” and more.

Evocative illustrations by award-winning artist London Ladd depict important people and places in Black history and culture: Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King, Jr., the Great Migration, and the Enslaved People’s Uprising of 1811.

Journey through Black history and music in this layered picture book.

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

Training Young Hearts series: "Your Amazing Hands" & "Your Magnificent Mouth" [Review & Giveaway]

Your Magnificent Mouth: A Training Young Hearts rhyming book by Abbey Wedgeworth & illustrated by Emma Randall

My thoughts:  The author begins by teaching young children to appreciate all the things they can do with their mouth  - blow bubbles, chew, speak, laugh, sing -  things that most of them already do and they'll delight to talk about these things as the book is read to them. Then the author teaches that God actually spoke the world into existence with His mouth. What a correlation to consider that the God of all created all things by speaking a word with His mouth.

The good things we can do with our mouth are pointed out and also attention is taken to the bad things our mouths can do. But we don't despair because God who created out mouth can forgive us and help us to use our mouth for good things.

Sweetly illustrated in bright primary colors with an all-peoples cast of children participating in the discoveries of information about their mouth and about the God of creation. A delightfully educational book to direct young children to God.

About the book: Empower kids ages 3+ to connect the gospel to their own actions and attitudes! From creation and fall to redemption and sanctification, this colorful rhyming storybook captures the beauty of the gospel message through simple, practical, rhyming language and illustrations that children will love to engage with. 

Focusing on the way we use our mouths, Abbey Wedgeworth helps children to see that God gave their words real power, and that this power can be used to heal or to harm. Secret word: Creator - But we're not left on our own to do the right thing—we can look to Jesus as our example, ask God for forgiveness when we mess up, and receive the help of the Holy Spirit as we use our mouths for God's glory!

With bright illustrations and fun rhymes, this storybook will inspire and equip your children to follow Jesus in word and deed.

Your Magnificent Mouth is part of the Training Young Hearts series, which encourages children to gospel-centered, grace-fueled obedience. The lift-the-flap board books for toddlers focus on specific behaviors while the rhyming storybooks help kids ages 3+ to understand the gospel and apply it to their lives in a way that suits their age and stage.

Your Amazing Hands: A Training Young Hearts rhyming book by Abbey Wedgeworth & illustrated by Emma Randall

My thoughts:  An amazing book teaching children about how their hands are wonderfully useful and also terribly hurtful. But also the author teaches that Jesus used His hands for healing and many wonderful things. Also, taught is that Jesus can forgive and help us use our hands for Him.

Delightfully written in a loose rhyming style that is a pleasure to read, and the cadence will draw the ear and mind of the child to the lessons to be learned.

The adorably cute illustrations are all-peoples inclusive, brightly colorful, joyful and such fun to look at.

About the book: Empower kids ages 3+ to connect the gospel to their own actions and attitudes! From creation and fall to redemption and sanctification, this colorful rhyming storybook captures the beauty of the gospel message through simple, practical, rhyming language and illustrations that children will love to engage with. 

Focusing on the way we use our hands, Abbey Wedgeworth helps children to see that God gave their hands for helping, sharing, creating, and other amazing things. When we struggle with using our hands the way God intends, we're not left on our own to do the right thing—we can look to Jesus as our example, ask God for forgiveness when we mess up, and receive the help of the Holy Spirit as we use our hands for God's glory!

With bright illustrations and fun rhymes, this storybook will inspire and equip your children to follow Jesus in word and deed.

Your Amazing Hands is part of the Training Young Hearts series, which encourages children to gospel-centered, grace-fueled obedience. The lift-the-flap board books for toddlers focus on specific behaviors while the rhyming storybooks help kids ages 3+ to understand the gospel and apply it to their lives in a way that suits their age and stage.

GIVEAWAY

Begins June 2

Ends July 1 @ 12:00 Midnight

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

The Crane and the Keeper: How an Endangered Crane Chose a Human as Her Mate by Meeg Pincus & illustrated by Gillian Eilidh O’Mara [review]

The Crane and the Keeper (ages 4 - 8)

  

ISBN: 9781536232363
Hardcover $18.99 USA
Smithsonian Kids
Candlewick Entertainment

My thoughts:  An interesting true story about an endangered species female crane whose name is "Walnut" that is isolated from her peers and fails to manage to imprint adequately on the cranes to enable her to mate and reproduce. This is sad because her being able to reproduce will provide more varied dna in the remaining cranes to enable healthy reproduction.

She sadly imprints on a young man who is a crane keeper. He is innovative in his care and develops a way to help her. She ultimately begins to raise her own young and so enables the cranes to survive.

A well written text that is gently illustrated  will provide entertaining education demonstrating the need for humans to intercede when necessary but to avoid imprinting on young animals (or birds). 

I found it interesting that this particular crane lived to be 42 years old and Chris Crow, her "crane keeper," was her care taker the entire time.

Note: A Junior Library Guild Selection.

About the book: The true story, widely reported on social and in print media, of a white-naped crane who saw her human keeper as her mate—forging a remarkable connection that might just save a species 

What was wrong with Walnut? The white-naped crane was friendly and curious—except when it came to other cranes. Raised by humans, Walnut didn’t see herself as a bird and could not live peacefully—or breed—with others of her species. Rejected by several zoos, she arrived at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo Conservation Biology Institute. Would this be her last chance? Meanwhile, Chris Crowe had also just arrived at the zoo, as crane keeper. It was his job to care for and help breed the birds at the institute. It was clear that breeding Walnut wasn’t going to be easy, but with skill and patience, Chris slowly earned the crane’s trust, and an extraordinary partnership evolved. In a Smithsonian Kids picture book sure to appeal to wildlife fans—and anyone who appreciates a unique unlikely friendship tale—award-winning author Meeg Pincus shares the story of the incredible bond between a crane and her keeper.

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