Charts for Babies (A Charts for Babies Book) by Michelle Rial. STEM picture book [Review & Giveaway]

Hardcover $18.99 USD
ISBN: 9781419785184
Abrams Appleseed Publishing

My thoughts:  If you thought from the title that this would be a book to educate parents or children using a variety of charts like bar charts, pie charts, graphs, line charts, you'd be mostly wrong. Sure it opens with a pie-chart but that is just a nifty way of giving you a sort-of Table of Contents. You see, Charts for Babies simply, and eloquently, and uniquely directs little one's thinking to relationships of size and content, to concepts and colors, to relationships of items and relationships with feelings.

You see, it's kind of a chart of the stuff of life. And it's a winner. Start your little ones thinking along these concepts, and you'll be giving them a head start on critical thinking, geometrics, mathematics, art in color, and simple feelings. And it is amazing that Ms. Rial has written the text in simple rhyme. Rhyme is always a plus, I think!

Parents will say, "Oh yea!" as they flip through these simple and point on pages. And, yes, the actual charts are shown at the back of the book. (Be sure you enter the giveaway below!)

About the book: From Michelle Rial, the writer of viral favorite Am I Overthinking This?, comes a quirky and delightful picture book exploring multiple early-learning concepts through simple graphic charts and graphs.

Little charts for big hearts! Through boldly illustrated timelines, pie charts, bar graphs, and Venn diagrams, young readers will learn about colors, opposites, shapes, feelings, and much more in this unconventional STEM picture book with the sweetest ending ever. 

Michelle Rial’s colorful, graphic style and infectious rhyming text make this a real off-the-charts read-aloud.

Advanced Review: “Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers (and, daresay, a few adults) will demand a repeat read of Rial’s charming, playful picture-book treatise on charts and graphs geared toward early learners…This versatile title is a first purchase for children's collections and could be easily used in story times and in classrooms.” ―Booklist

 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR/CREATOR: Michelle Rial is a graphic designer who makes charts. Named by Vulture as one of “9 of the Funniest Cartoonists and Illustrators on Instagram,” she is the author and illustrator of the books Am I Overthinking This? and Maybe This Will Help, and her work has been featured by The New Yorker, Oprah Daily, USA Today, Wired, and more. She lives in the redwoods of California with Lenny, Jude, and Einstein.

GIVEAWAY

Begins July 19

Ends August 19 @ 11:59 p.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

CHARTS FOR BABIES by Michelle Rial

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 directly to the winner by the publisher, author, or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. 

After the Rain by Eleanor Spicer Rice & illustrated by Fiona Lee from MIT Kids Press

After the Rain by Eleanor Spicer Rice & illustrated by Fiona Lee 

ISBN: 9781536236385
MIT Kids Press
Hardcover $18.99 USD

My thoughts:  Children relish the idea of rain and playing out in the rain or the puddles after it has rained. Their getting out gives opportunity for learning about earthworms that appear after it rains, what's floating in the puddles, sense the freshness of the air, and the scent of the rain. Just the same, they can dip into the wealth of imagery that is tucked into the illustrations of After the Rain. They can see critters, worms, plants, fungi and discover what happens all around them in the world that exists "After the Rain."

Back pages give definitions and/or explanations of terms and ideas from the story and about the effect of rain on this world.

A nice book to add to one's STEM collection. MIT Kids Press is a strong printer for STEM products. 

About the book: Gorgeously illustrated and brimming with accessible science, this joyful picture book explores the wonders of the natural world after it rains. Puddle-hopping optional!

What happens once the rain stops? To a young child out exploring with her grandmother and dog, the world smells of summer green and turtles and warm bricks. That after-rain smell, known as petrichor, signals to seeds, You can come up now! Bees buzz out of their hives and sip from puddles. Butterflies desert their leafy umbrellas. The rain itself becomes water vapor, which forms clouds. And not everyone ventures up and out. With the sun’s return, worms wriggle deep down in search of shelter while fungi converse with the tangled roots of trees. Illustrated with the sparkling glow of a busy landscape after rain, spreads include relevant “words to say after the rain,” such as evaporation and humidity, in a form that provides context for the meaning. This deceptively simple and imminently shareable picture book by a leading scientist introduces key concepts with energy, gentle humor, and age-appropriate language, inspiring curious readers of all ages to pull on rain boots and beeline for the door.

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

Orris and Timble: Star Stories (Orris & Timble #3) by Kate DiCamillo & illustrated by Carmen Mok

Orris and Timble: Star Stories (Orris & Timble #3) 

ISBN: 9781536227581
Hardcover $16.99
Candlewick Press

My thoughts:  A simply delightful easy reader mini-chapter book for young readers. This is the third in the Orris and Timble series and has two friends who are content with their lives as they are living them, Timble the white barn owl, and Orris the mouse that lives in the barn. However, Timble the owl is encouraging Orris the mouse to go beyond his trusted area of living and fly with the owl to see the world. Mouse is content and actually afraid of going out in the world and of flying.

A good choice for young readers.

About the book: Tender and authentic—a worthy conclusion to a wondrous series." —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

In a soaring conclusion to a moving trilogy, national treasure Kate DiCamillo shows how friendship, trust, and stories—lived and shared—transform us.

Orris and Timble are friends. Orris is a rat, Timble is an owl, and they meet each night in an old barn to share stories. One night, Timble asks a fateful question: “Why don’t you ever leave the barn, Orris?” Strong and brave, the owl offers to carry the rat on his back. Orris will be able to see it all for himself—the rivers and fish, roads and farms, mountains and coyotes. But why would Orris leave the barn when all he needs is there: his books, the moon and stars above, and Timble’s nightly tales of high-flying adventure? What would you do if you had the chance to fly? In the final installment of an exquisitely illustrated and deeply felt early-reader trilogy, two-time Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo reveals how trust and friendship can lift us into our best lives.

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

That’s What Heroes Do by Adam Kinzinger - A Tommy Nelson Publications children's book [Review & Giveaway]

That’s What Heroes Do by Adam Kinzinger

ISBN: 9781400252725
Hardcover $19.99 SRV

My thoughts:  I love when books (and parents) tell the stories of real live heroes rather than fiction super heroes that zip and zap through the air and shoot bolts of lightning from their fists performing superhuman feats. Real people are much greater and inspiring. They are much greater for children to aspire to emulate themselves.

In Mr. Adam Kinzinger's first children's book, he looks at heroes in different walks of life. The boy living this story has a father that is a pilot - super stuff in a boy's eyes. The father gives his son a tour of the United States via his own plane to learn about the many heroes that live all around us.

Focusing on acts of kindness as well as heroic acts, this story guides the reader's thoughts toward the whole of society as it engages in deeds done to help others. It ends with the thought that "Heroes put others first!" Indeed, an apt definition of a hero.

Brightly illustrated in strong colors and cheerful people from every day walks of life.

About the book: Who is a hero? From first responders and soldiers to teachers and friends, discover what makes a real-life hero in this story from Adam Kinzinger, veteran and former congressman. Take to the skies with a boy and his pilot dad as they visit sites across the United States in search of heroes. As they look down on community helpers working hard to lift up others, and even witness those who gave everything at Arlington Cemetery, children will discover that America is built on the service and sacrifices of heroes.

In this imaginative, heartfelt adventure, boys and girls 4 to 8 will

• discover that heroes are all around us,
• learn about notable sites across the United States where heroes work and serve,
• learn that a hero protects and lifts up others,
• understand that anyone can choose kindness and generosity, and
• be inspired to honor the sacrifices made for them.

Inspired by the author's experiences as an Air Force pilot, this story of adventure, curiosity, and patriotism will give children a deeper understanding of the many people who put others first every day to make America a nation of safety and opportunity. Perfect for classroom and homeschool studies about Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veteran's Day, this hopeful book will encourage children to be tomorrow's heroes—and to start today.

GIVEAWAY

Begins July 8

Ends August 9 at 11:39 p.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

That’s What Heroes Do

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

Summer time fun activity books from Candlewick

Easy going, relaxing, fun-loving summer time! A time to play, get out 'n about, and be a kid!

Make it also a time to tickle the brain a bit with creative fun!

Unicornia Coloring Book ($9.99 USD, ISBN: 9781536256215) by Ana Punset (Author), Diana Vicedo (Illustrator) 

My thoughts: This is a fun, cheerful, creative coloring book. Filled with joyful, happy pictures of the imaginary, mythical unicorn and a charming girl.

Hours of fun to color with crayons or paints. Quality paper.

About the book: This easy and fun coloring book makes a great gift for any unicorn lover!

Seth and the Very Scary Storm by Courtney Reissig & illustrated by Catharine Collingridge [Review & Giveaway]

Helping children understand the storms of life....

ISBN: 9798384529781
Hardcover - $14.99 USD
BHKids / Lifeway

My thoughts: The author seamlessly uses the Biblical account of Jesus healing the man who was blind from birth to help a modern child understand the loss and sadness that comes from the destruction of a tornado that ripped through the neighborhood where he lived.

The book gently begins with the wrenching tale of fear of the roaring storm and then having to face the destruction left in its aftermath. The child (and yes, adults, too) is bewildered and lacking in understanding of these dire happenings, and his mother gently teaches that God loves him and is with him in the storm. This lesson can be used to help one understand storms of life and not just tornados, hurricanes, etc. 

Lots of good information in this sweet book.

"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." John 1:5

About the book:  Will a storm come again?

Children are often keenly aware of natural disasters and other scary news, near or far. And they might ask the age-old questions . . . Is God mad at us? Why did God let this bad thing happen?

In this poignant yet hopeful picture book, young Seth tries to understand why a tornado hit his neighborhood, and he worries the dark sky will return. His mom helps him work through his fears by sharing the biblical story of the man born blind, showing Seth (and young readers) that Christ is always working and is our comfort and courage even on the hardest days.

Parents and caregivers can use Seth and the Very Scary Storm—and the discussion questions at the end—to have gentle conversations with their children about fear and suffering, showing them the God who loves us through it all.

This book is a comforting read for children   fear storms and bad weather,  are troubled after hearing scary news,  or who feel worried after facing a natural disaster or other difficulties.

"Do not fear, for I am with you." Isaiah 43:5

GIVEAWAY 

Begins June 26

Ends July 27 @ 11:59 p.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

Seth and the Very Scary Storm by Courtney Reissig

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. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. 

Tove Under the Tree by Larissa Theule & illustrated by Julie Benbassat (9781536232813)

About the book: A child’s courage and creativity save a fallen tree in this gentle young chapter book about empathy, resilience, community, and our indelible bond with nature.

There was a tickle at the top of her head. . . .

Tove’s brain vibrated like a phone. The little branch was asking for permission to grow.

Tove straightened. “Yes, please grow,” she said.

Just like that, her head accepted and welcomed the branch’s polite, exploring baby roots.

For as long as Tove can remember, the giant ficus tree has stood in front of her house, shading her bedroom during the day, holding up the stars at night. Now it lies on the ground, chopped down. “It was dead,” says the arborist. “Trees die. People think they live forever, but they don’t.” Or don’t they? Tove picks up a little branch that escaped the chipper, a branch still green and supple, still holding life. With that, she makes a bold and valiant resolution—and when the weight of her decision grows larger than a small child can handle by herself, the entire neighborhood comes together to support her and the tree they all love. With Larissa Theule’s graceful prose and Julie Benbassat’s inviting illustrations, a realistic familiarity merges with magical realism in an elegant, moving story with shades of a classic.

My thoughts:  This is a well written story with text and story line that is interesting, fun, and structurally appropriate for the intended age. A bit quirky in hypothesis and has neighborly characters that are engaging with one another and in quirk-appeal to the story and for the reader's entertainment.

Now, of course, it is absurd to think of a tree cutting taking root atop a little girl's head, but Tove's tree cutting from a beloved tree does just that. It grows amazingly fast which soon presents difficulties for which Tove and friends find suitable solutions. 

While not a "fairy tale," I surmise that it is a close reading cousin of the genre. It is certainly entertaining and has thought provoking ideas that a exploring mind can tool around with a bit. A fun read.

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

God's Great Big Global Church Visit 10 Kids and Their Churches All Around the World by Tim Challies [Review & Giveaway]

Christianity is the faith for all people of all races in all places. God's Great Big Global Church is open to all.

ISBN: 9781802544077
Hardcover $17.99 USA
Buy: Click Here

About the book: Take kids on an exciting adventure exploring the global church!

Kids will gain enthusiasm for going to church on Sundays as they discover that they and their local fellowship are part of something much bigger: a family of people worshiping God all around the world!

Join Tim Challies as he guides you on this illustrated journey through 10 countries. Your children will be delighted to meet fictionalized kids just like themselves as they discover…

• Fascinating facts about life in each location
• Fun stories about how life, worship and church community are different all around the world
• A connected Bible passage about worship
• Each positive, eye-opening visit to another country is based on Challies’ own travel experience and conversations with local church leaders.

Use the included prompts to start conversations about the global church as a family or Sunday-school class. Click here for special resources to use with this book - map and a passport to download, etc.

Look inside a little - click here.

My thoughts:    This truly is an amazing book. You don't want to miss out on this one if you (yourself, your family, your children) have any interest in the Church, the Christians in these churches, and the countries in which they are located. This fact filled, missions encouraging, informative book about peoples, places, and how the church fares in these 10 locations is a treasure to read, peruse, have available on the coffee table, and definitely in the Church library of any mission minded Christ loving church.

There are 10 countries represented with about three pages of pictures and factoids about them. The main focus is on a particular church represented by our child-host and the village or city and country in which he or she is located. It was stunning to me to see the religions represented in the country and the percentage of each. I was surprised at the percentage of Christians recorded in each country.

Tidbits about the ways each church worships is especially interesting. Whether or not the church is a secretive, house church or a large vocal advocate for Christ in the community and the methods they each use to worship, sing, share their faith is inspiring.

The bright, colorful illustrations are inviting as are the happy faces of the Christian, the believers, the worshipers in each of the countries.

I highly encourage families, church groups, church libraries, and Christian schools to get copies of this really good book.

⛪GIVEAWAY🏚️

Begins June 12

Ends July 14 @ 11:59 p.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

God's Great Big Global Church Visit 10 Kids and Their Churches All Around the World By Tim Challies

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions expressed are solely my own and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided and mailed/shipped directly to the winner by publisher, The Good Book Company. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Winner is notified via the email provided by winner in the Gleam entry platform. Winner will have 48 hours to provide needed shipping information. Failure to do so will disqualify them and a new winner will be selected. 

"America, I'm So Glad You Were Born" by Ainsley Earhardt - Celebrating America's 250th Birthday - Children's book

Let’s Celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave—together!

  

America, I'm So Glad You Were Born: Celebrating the Country We Love by Ainsley Earhardt & Illustrated by Kim Barnes - #1 Best Seller in Children's Books on the U.S.

ISBN: 9780310184225
Hardcover $21.99 USD
ZonderKidz Publishing | Buy

My thoughts:  This bright and colorful children's book captures the joy and excitement that children can experience as they celebrate the birthday of America. This year 2026 America celebrates its 250th birthday or anniversary of it's becoming an independent sovereign nation after declaring and fighting to gain it's independence from Great Britain.

This is a happy book! This is a bright, exuberant celebration of our American freedom and presented beautifully simple and joyfully so that children can comprehend. They will learn about freedoms. About achievements. About equality. The illustrations show a delightful mixed group of children that is indicative of the melting pot nature that is America's population. Handicapped children are engaging in activities right along with those without handicaps. Skin color and hair or faces don't matter. The joy is evident. 

A lovely, happy book.

About the book: Celebrate the heart and soul of America with #1 New York Times bestselling author Ainsley Earhardt’s all-new picture book! Just in time for America's 250th anniversary!

Join the parade, wave the flags, and light up the sky with fireworks as you and your little ones shout, “I’m so glad you were born, America!” This joyful and patriotic picture book celebrates the people, places, history, and values that make our country extraordinary.

Perfect for children and families, this beautifully illustrated book celebrates America’s rich heritage and traditions. From the founding principles of democracy and equality to the freedoms we cherish—like freedom of speech, religion, and opportunity—this book is a heartfelt reminder of why we’re so thankful for the U.S.A.

With fun rhymes, colorful scenes, and a spirit of celebration, America, I’m So Glad You Were Born is ideal for:

• Teaching kids about America’s history, values, and diversity
• Inspiring gratitude and pride in our country
• Celebrating Independence Day, patriotic holidays, or any day you want to honor America

Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift, a classroom read-aloud, or a way to share your love for America with the next generation, this book is a must-have for every family’s library.

Let’s celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave—together!

Where you can purchase a copy... https://amzn.to/3PzL6Dq 

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.  #america250 #americabornbook #ainsleyamericabook #ainsleyearhardt #zonderkidz @aearhardt @zonderkidz @FrontGateMedia

Exploring the tiny world around us: Children's books bring discovery to small ones (ages 3-7). [Candlewick Press]

Tiny Worlds: A Story About Appreciating the Small Things (A Gentle Picture Book That Celebrates Imagination and Grandparent Bonds) by Brittany Cicchese 

Hardcover $18.99 USD
Candlewick Press
ISBN: 9781536236521

My thoughts:  This is a  simply lovely book. A book that gently tells the loving story of a small boy's relationship with his caring grandmother. It is obvious that he frequents his grandmother's home as he has his own treasures placed prominently and easily available for him. The story explores his love of the small world - almost a fairy world - that in reality is a world that exists under, at the bottom of, and within our larger world. He sees the tiny world, and his eyes and mind are alight with the story that can be told of that particular tiny world.

Grandmother gently urges him out into the big, main world that is where he really lives. He eases himself off to the edges of the main, larger world. After awhile in the larger world, he desires to again begin discovering the tiny world that sits amongst his present location.

Whilst this is truly in essence a story of a boy who has a mind and eye to discover the hidden that is small and hard to know but that sits right among us in our larger world. It can be but a small step to envision that this little boy has such an introvert personality that his preference is his own world or a world of his own creation from the small hidden things that sit at our feet. His grandmother in her wisdom, gently eases him out into the big world this is his to discover, yet recognizes the need to still allow his settling back into his small world for play.

The author is the illustrator and she has created a beautiful rendering of these small worlds and the world around them and of the little inquisitive boy with his loving and wise grandmother. Beautiful.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

About the book: Grandma’s house isn’t that big, but there’s always enough room for a tiny world. . . .

An introverted child finds grandness in the small things around him in this heartfelt intergenerational story.

When a young boy visits his grandmother’s house, he doesn’t just see scraps of ribbon lying around, mushrooms clustered under a log in the forest, or shells hiding along the beach. He sees tiny worlds where pie tins become playgrounds, ants become farmers, and tide pools teem with life waiting to be explored. Tiny worlds are full of whimsy and imagination, but they have one problem: He seems to be the only one who sees them. While at first Grandma keeps trying to draw him out, to a busy park or the beach or the zoo, eventually she realizes that her grandson’s tiny worlds are big enough for her to meet him there. In her authorial debut, Brittany Cicchese offers a touching story and warm illustrations that celebrate the connection between a child and grandparent and encourage readers to appreciate the little things in life—and the sensitive souls who lead us to them.

Jayden Noticed by Carolyn Crimi & illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice

Hardcover $18.99 USD
Candlewick Press
ISBN: 9781536227307

My thoughts:  This is a sweet story of a family who moves from one home to another in a location that appears different in many ways to a young boy. As Jayden packs his beloved rock collection to take along on the move, he wonders.

When he arrives he finds a new rock that has a lovely shiny streak in it. Soon after he finds a new friend.

A lovely story of adjusting to changes in locations and discovering new friends.⭐⭐⭐⭐

About the book: With the help of a rock he’s collected, a child moving to a new house learns to embrace change and make a like-minded friend in this story celebrating our most thoughtful little observers.

Jayden notices everything. He notices the way the moon looks different every night as it peeks through the oak tree. He notices spiderweb wheels and egg freckles, mouse paws and rose petals. But most of all, Jayden notices rocks. Jayden collects a rock to go with everything: a homework rock, a Saturday rock, even enough wishing rocks to fill up a jar. But now that he and his family have moved to a different house, where the trees are too short, the color is off, and the mailbox is in the wrong place, will he find a rock to grant him courage—and help him make a new friend, maybe even a noticer like him? In a tender story for curious and observant little readers, Carolyn Crimi’s text joins with Shamar Knight-Justice’s expressive illustrations in a tale that offers comfort in the face of life’s many changes.

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

Guess How Much I Love You, Dad!: Father's Day Gift Edition by Sam McBratney & illustrated by Anita Jeram (Ages 2 to 5)

As Father's Day approaches, Moms around the World are looking for little gifts for their little ones to give "Dad"  on his special day. What better way to teach the art of giving to young children than to help them give to their Dad and to show love to the one who provides and protects?!?

ISBN: 9781536251845
Hardcover $16.99 USD

My thoughts:  In this new book that is now a lovely addition in the "Guess How Much I Love You" collection of children's books, Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare (Dad) have a conversation where they try to measure in a variety of ways just how big their love is for the other.

Of course, since Big Nutbrown Hare is much bigger than Little Nutbrown Hare, this is absurd as his measures are always much greater or bigger. But they persist. Until..... Little Nutbrown Hare says "...to the moon--and back."

This sweet book comes with its own gift card and wrapping paper. So Mom and the little one are all set for the big day when they show Dad "how much I love you."

About the book: The perfect gift for Father’s Day, with the beloved book, a card, and gift wrap all in one elegant package!

Solve all your Father’s Day gifting needs in one go with this stylish and convenient present! This special hardcover gift edition of the parent-and-child classic Guess How Much I Love You comes with a beautiful card and elegant blue wrapping paper, ready to gift for Father’s Day.

Guess How Much I Love You is an international bestseller and family favorite known for expressing love so big it can’t be measured. What better way to celebrate the father figure in your life than by telling him you love him—right up to the moon and back!

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

Understanding the People, Places, & Things in the Bible - "The Explorer Bible Dictionary for Kids" [Review & Lifeway Giveaway Bundle]

 

Click Here to Purchase - $24.99 SRV
ISBN: 9798384532330
Holman Bible Publishers

About the Dictionary: The Explorer Bible Dictionary for Kids is intentionally designed to accompany the ECPA award-winning CSB Explorer Bible for Kids. ​​

Within its engaging, full-color pages, kids will interact with over 750 common Bible terms paired with concise definitions to enhance their understanding of the people, places, and things of the Bible. Fascinating images, illustrations, maps, and reconstructions are featured throughout to increase comprehension and help kids apply key terms and truths of the Bible. ​

This unique reference resource is perfect for use at home, church, or school and created to grow with your kids as they grow in Christ.​ 

My thoughts: Summer isn't just time for splashing in the pool, soaking in the sun, or whacking a ball out of the park time for kids. It means "down time" and time just being a kid. But kids still need tools at hand that will engage their minds so they don't get a case of brain-rot over the summer.   

Sometimes kids just want to kick back, lie down on the floor, prop up on a pillow and indiscriminately read through a dictionary or similar reference work. Surprised? Don't be! Kids are more real-information-oriented than you'd imagine. Short blips of information, and in a children's edition - the pictures, give them just the amount of chill-time information they want at that particular time. Unknown to them, they are also learning, educating themselves, and storing bits of information in their divinely given brain that has a huge amount of room for storage. 

Sometimes, we as parents, grandparents, educators, and theologians want to sit the children down with text books, Bibles, and dictionaries and give assigned tasks designed to educate them. We should also provide the means for some quiet, self-directed perusal of books so children can personally and quietly glean for themselves the treasures tucked away in the quiet turn of a page.

All these occasions are perfect times to have a copy of The Explorer Bible Dictionary for Kids on hand. Yes, I said, "Dictionary." This volume with attention snaring illustrations, colors that please the senses, information bits about interesting people, places and things are all neatly organized and presented. The dictionary will be a welcome addition to the homeschool library and the homes of those who attend private, parochial, or public schools. 

In today's world of technology, with computer, laptop, ipad, or phones on which we have billions of bits of data stored and available to us with a simple "click," few people think of a book - a "dictionary" - as a tool for learning. But a book filled to the brim with illustrations, colorful pages, snippets of information (definitions) all organized with easy-to-find information is a vastly important tool for learning. And kids can and do enjoy these books.

This is a great introductory Bible Dictionary to acquaint kids with the skill of seeking further information and descriptions of people, places, things in the Bible to aid in their better understanding of Scripture. I highly recommend.

The Explorer Bible Dictionary for Kids is intentionally designed to pair with the Explorer Bible for Kids, but it will work as a stand-alone book of reference or to use with other Bibles. I reviewed the Explorer Bible for Kids previously and you can read my review here. Purchase dictionary: click here.

🌟GIVEAWAY BUNDLE🌟

May 28 - June 11

Open to USA addresses only!

Explorer Bible for Kids + 

Explorer Bible Dictionary for Kids + 

Toddler Theology Series Bundle

Explorer Stickers & T-Shirt

Prize Bundle contents (1 winner all products): 2 copies of the Explorer Bible for Kids, 2 copies Explorer Bible for Kids Dictionaries, Explorer Bible Stickers, an Explorer Bible Tshirt, and the Toddler Theology Series set (6 books in set, picture below). 

On the entry form, be sure you name "Chat With Vera" as the blog that you entered from.

 CLICK HERE TO ENTER 

Toddler Theology Set - 6 books

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy of The Explorer Bible Dictionary for Kids to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaway for the Theology Series Bundle is hosted by Lifeway Christian Resources and Lifeway will manage entries and award prize/s to winners according to their established guidelines. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes or awarding of giveaway prize/s. Many thanks to Lifeway for this opportunity. #ExplorerBibleDictionaryMIN #explorerbibleforkids #christianstandardbible #EBFK #learningathome #homegrownkids #splashintoscripture #scriptureforsummer

Korobá: The Case of the Missing Kolo by Àlàbá Ònájìn (Candlewick Graphic novels #Nigeria #Africa #mystery #middlegrade)

Holiday House Publishing
ISBN: 978-0823465057
Hardcover $24.99
Paperback $14.99

My thoughts: This is a story set in an African village where folks live in poverty. It is a story presented well with lively characters and well executed graphic novel drawings. The story recounts the excitement of an upcoming event in the village, the need to have some funds for the event, the act of saving ahead for the event. And then the mystery of the missing funds.

Lively drawings recount the story and give a peek into life in an African village.

I think this will be a good choice for reluctant readers as well as those who wish to read about cultures other than their own or who simply enjoy a graphic novel.  

About the book: A charismatic young sleuth takes on a case close to home in this new graphic novel series set in a vibrant African community.

Ten-year-old Korobá knows everyone in Makoko, the Nigerian fishing village where she lives.

She knows her way up and down the bright, colorful waterways, knows where to sell fried shrimp, and knows what to look for at the crowded daily market. Makoko is her playground, and she roams free with her best friends, Saidat and Joba, and her adorable dog, Popi.

The last thing Korobá would expect in Makoko is a thief. Yet Saidat’s wooden piggy bank—her Kolo—has been stolen. The children of Makoko save coins in their Kolo all year long, waiting to spend their money at the annual harvest festival. Saidat saved and saved, but now she will have nothing. It’s not fair!

Korobá knows what good detectives do…(sort of?). Should the primary suspect be Saidat’s grumpy cousin, visiting on vacation? Or could it be the village carpenter, who has been doing some work on Saidat’s house? It's up to Detective Korobá to catch the thief and find the missing Kolo before Breaking Day!

Buckle up, budding mystery fans… It’s time to join Korobá and friends on their thrilling chase for the culprit. With rich, detailed illustrations—featuring some very important clues—that bring Makoko to life, this one-of-a-kind graphic novel series is a modern day Tintin meets Encyclopedia Brown.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. #Mystery #Graphic Novels #Middle Grade #Childrens #Comics #Nigeria #Africa #Graphic #Novels Comics

A Friend for Hope by Amie White & illustrated by Olena Oprich [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9780168220005
Paperback $9.99 USD
Buy on Amazon

• "A gentle, beautifully illustrated story about loneliness and the quiet kind of friendship that helps kids feel seen." —Book Nerdection
• "This is a beautiful book that will enchant readers of all ages." —Literary Titan
• "Values such as empathy and respect are consistently highlighted." —Readers' Favorite
• "An absolutely beautiful, charming story, full of heart, empathy, and hope." —Goodreads Reader

My thoughts: The illustrations are sweet and tell the story well. The illustrator uses a lot of reds, oranges, and red-browns. Character's expressions, including the dogs, are charming. I think a few line-strokes would add to the illustrations and give more definition. 

I really liked the flow of the story's text and the vocabulary used. The story is well structured and did not "read down" to the kids. 

The story plot is a sweet "lonely child needs companion and gets a rescue dog for a pet." It doesn't harp on the rescue dog theme, but gently inserts it into the story. The family is a caring, loving, and attentive family which is really good in today's world of torn apart families and society in general. It seems the child is schooled at home since she has a tutor. She gazes out the window at the neighbor children playing and her parents sense her loneliness.

The question one asks is "Why isn't she playing with the other children?" Why is she lonely when there are available children? This is something some children will wonder when having this sweet story read to them and there is no answer provided. Yes, acquiring a rescue dog as a pet and companion to the girl is meritorious but the loneliness is only partially solved since the human need for human companionship is not resolved.

In spite of these questions, this is a sweet story and very well written.

About the book: A heartwarming picture book for ages 4–6.

Nine-year-old Zoe Meadows is the new kid in Ivy Creek. For homeschooled Zoe, every day starts the same: breakfast, then to the living room where Miss Ellis awaits. Only today, Zoe can't focus—not when she notices neighborhood children playing outside, children she's yet to meet. Watching all this unfold, Zoe's parents decide it's time for a companion—the furry kind, to be precise.

Everything changes when Zoe meets Hope at the dog shelter for the first time. The two girls form an inseparable bond over the following months and find in each other the one thing they both craved for a long, long time: a forever friend.

Awards:

• Winner — 2025 Literary Titan Book Award
• Finalist — 2025/2026 Indies Today Awards

GIVEAWAY

2 Winners: 1 Paperback book each

A Friend For Hope

Begins May 20

Ends June 19 @ 11:59 p.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

A Friend for Hope by Amie White

DISCLOSURE: I was sent a complimentary copy by the author to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

We Are Home When We're Together: Trusting God Through Life's Changes by Jean Stoffer & Grace Start, Illustrated by Megan Lindsey [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9781400254316
Hardcover $19.99
Tommy Nelson Publications

My thoughts:  Lots of good take aways from this sweet book. The changes that come into our lives; and in this story, it is the change of homes. Leaving one's home is hard and that is especially true for a child who has known no other home. But change is inevitable in our lives, and so changing a place of residence teaches the way, the right way, to accept and adapt to change. In this case, the story teaches that even though we are in a new place, a new house, a new home, "We are Home When We're Together." This helps teach the lesson of the provision and provenance of God in the changes in our lives. 

There are some pages of really good illustrations in this sweet book, and some I didn't care for as much. I especially liked the winter scene, the beach/ocean scene,  page of high rise apartments, the country farm scene, and the home in the desert. I think my favorite is the winter scene.

And I especially enjoyed finding the wee mouse family that accompanied the family in the journey to change their residence. This is a real treat.

We Are Home When We're Together is a story of trust in God. A story of God's plans for you. And a way to accept changes in our lives with the help of God. Good lessons, sweetly taught. A good book.

About the book: We Are Home When We're Together is a warm invitation to cherish memories, embrace change, and remember that whenever you're with family—you're home.

Acclaimed designers and mother-daughter team Jean Stoffer and Grace Start of The Established Home from the Magnolia Network show that the location of a family's most sacred space may change, but the foundation—love for one another—remains. This meaningful picture book helps children savor good memories and reassures them that new spaces can lead to beautiful new experiences as they trust God to help them navigate and settle into a new house with their family.

Moving to new houses, new schools, new neighborhoods, and other life changes can be unsettling, and We Are Home When We're Together is a reminder to look to God as your family adjusts together. This beautiful book is for ages 4 to 8,includes stunning illustrations that feature interesting and diverse homes,helps parents and caretakers who are navigating moves or other life changes with their children,features ways to involve children in setting up home together, provides intentional ideas to savor memories and create wonderful new ones, andreminds families to rely on God, who is preparing our forever home, and rest in Him as they navigate change.This celebration of home and family is a lovely addition to your bookshelf, a wonderful story to cozy up to with your children, and a meaningful gift for children and families who are navigating new seasons of life.

GIVEAWAY

Begins May 19

Ends June 16 @ 11:59 p.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

WE ARE HOME WHEN WE'RE TOGETHER

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's book prize copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by publisher, Tommy Nelson, or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Winner will be notified via their email registered and used in the entry platform, Gleam.io. They will have 48 hours to provide the requested information for prize distribution.

Bird watching and the study of birds - STEM NON-FICTION - book reviews

Spring and Summer is a wonderful time to introduce children to the habit of observation of birds. As birds leave their Winter homes and fly across the World to their Spring and Summer nesting grounds, the opportunity to see a rich variety of unusual birds presents itself. These two children's books introduce the child to the world of these beautiful and fantastic creatures.

Light as a Feather: Fifteen Phenomenal North American Birds by Will Hillenbrand 

ISBN: 9780823462551
Hardcover $19.99 USD
Holiday House Publishing

My thoughts: Though designed and intended for the age 4 to 8 audience, Light as a Feather...  is a book that will captivate older readers - older children and even adults - alike. The illustrations are lovely and present attributes of each bird beautifully with text that adequately provides educational information on the specifics of each bird. These are North American birds so the book will appeal to folks North of the Equator in the Western Hemisphere.

A good amount of information is provided so readers can identify the birds included in this collection and  understand a bit about what they are like physically and in habit.

A sad note that I found throughout the book is the statement that "their populations have steadily decreased over time." Causation of this is probably removal of natural habitats - forests, etc. as well as climate change.

A must have book for the family that treasures our birds and wants their family to know about the different birds that might frequent their backyards.

About the book: Let your curiosity take flight with this nonfiction picture book exploring the world of North American birds from acclaimed author Will Hillenbrand.

Why are feathers so light? Why do woodpeckers drum? What should you do if you find an injured bird? Acclaimed picture book author Will Hillenbrand has the answers that are sure to make readers’ imaginations soar!

In these pages you’ll meet North America’s most fascinating birds, like nature’s drummers (the woodpecker) to its most dynamic dancers (the sandhill crane) and flashiest fliers (the blue jay), and more. Colorful maps explore the bird’s habitats, and bright, accessible infographics invite readers to experience every part of the birds’ world, from the brown pelican’s seven-plus foot wingspan to the light waves that make bluebirds so blue. In this vibrantly-illustrated nonfiction picture book, the sky’s the limit on what there is to learn.

Extreme Birdwatching: Measuring Change on a Galápagos Island (Discovery Chronicles) by Loree Griffin Burns & illustrated by Jamie Green

My thoughts:  Not a book for "back yard birding" but the content of the book will certainly appeal to serious "birders." On one of the unusual Galápagos islands, Daphne Island, a couple of scientists chronicle their study of the Daphne Finches.

Written in an easy flowing and very readable style, the information about the Galápagos Islands, particularly the island of Daphne will captivate readers. While the information in this little book is intended for ages 7 to 10 it will probably appeal to older youths and even adults. It recounts a  simplified version of the scientific study of these birds and the environment.

The illustrations are done in shades of blue which lends interest beyond the typical black and white or simple line drawings often seen in books for this age group. I found the illustrations adequate and serve the purpose of making a non-fiction book even more appealing for young readers. 

The generalized conclusion of the decades of study of the finches on Daphne Island is that natural selection is observable for study in the wild as is evolution based on conditions. 

This would be a nice book to include in a school or classroom library as well as public libraries. I think, too, that if a child is interested in studies such as this, that they would benefit by having their own copy of the book. 

About the book: A treasure trove for science classrooms, citizen scientists, and budding biologists, this “you-are-there” account of a landmark study of wild finches going about their finch-y business captures the scientific process in action.

Daphne is an island. Not one you’d choose for a vacation. There are no sandy beaches, resorts, hotels, or houses. No tall trees to make shade. The steep, rocky sides of a volcanic Galápagos island are not inviting, and most who visit this part of the world sail right past. But Peter and Rosemary Grant are not most people. A husband-and-wife team, the Grants came to this singular place with a singular goal: to study two species of wild finch. For decades, the scientists and their students counted, cataloged, and observed finches on a remote mile-wide island. Through teamwork, painstaking observation—extreme bird-watching, extreme plant study, extreme seed counting—and careful beak measurements, the group of committed scientists proved step-by-step, over forty years, how finch beaks change in response to their environment. Weaving accessible biology and the scientific process into an inspiring conversational narrative, this second title in the Discovery Chronicles series—packed with resources and back matter—concretely honors the value of hard journeys, the vision and ambition behind tedious tasks, and the astonishing power of curiosity.

Disclosure: I received complimentary copies of these books from Candlewick Press and their imprints: MIT Kids Press and Holiday House Publications. Opinions expressed in the review are mine, alone and are freely given.