The CSB Explorer Bible for Kids [Review & Giveaway]

ABOUT THE BIBLE: The CSB Explorer Bible for Kids is made to help kids place God’s Word in the middle of God’s world. Within its pages, kids will explore and interact with the people, places, and things of the Bible and God’s creation. This Bible features a fun and engaging full-color design with images, illustrations, timelines, and study helps placed throughout to equip and excite kids of all ages to better read, know, and apply God’s Word for a lifetime.

FEATURES:

• Book introductions to help kids understand the key truths and takeaways for every book, including the “Who, What, When, Where, and Why”
• “Christ in Context” articles for each book to show how the whole Bible points to Jesus and the good news of the gospel
• “Discovering the Truth” callouts to help kids understand the essential truths of the Bible and apply them to their life
• “Excavating the Past” illustrations and real-world images to help connect the dots between important archaeological discoveries and the Bible
  
  
  
• “Exploring Creation” facts and images connecting modern day objects and things in the world today to God and the Bible
• “Charting History” illustrated timelines to survey key time periods and events in biblical history
• “Ultimate Character” profiles with fun facts and insights for important people in the Bible
  
  
  
• “Unearthing God’s Promises” callouts highlighting key memory verses throughout the Bible to aid in Scripture memorization
• “Big Words” dictionary to look up the meaning of some of the big words found in the Bible
• Corresponding online activities that can be done at home with family and friends, or at church with a group
• 8.5pt type size that is easy-to-read with words of Jesus in red
• Specially designed presentation page for gift-giving or awards
• Full-color maps section to help find places mentioned in the Bible
  
  
  

Part of what makes the CSB Explorer Bible for Kids so special is the highly readable, highly reliable text of the Christian Standard Bible® (CSB). The CSB captures the Bible’s original meaning without sacrificing clarity, making it easier to engage with Scripture’s life-transforming message and to share it with others.

My thoughts: This is a sturdy, bright colored children's Bible. The whole Biblical text is there so it is not a "storybook Bible." I like that the words of Jesus are printed in red. The study aids are somewhat unique in this Bible. It is a Bible meant to be used as a study Bible for middle schoolers enabling them to have age appropriate study aids at their fingertips.

The online corresponding activities where you can scan a QR code to download activities pages is an interesting concept but will probably soon be out of date as technology changes so rapidly. A separate book accompanying the Bible with these codes might be more appropriate for this purpose.

I know many folks are using the CSB (Christian Standard Bible) version and it is certainly very readable. I am still an advocate of the old standard KJV. 

The text format and size is easily readable which is a real plus. I really like the side bars of information that explains the Biblical text and grabs the reader's attention. I also like inclusion of truths such as "God will forgive us even though we sin. Genesis 27-28" and the colorful eye catching image accompanying it. The maps are great and the glossary is superb. The introduction to each book of the Bible is clear and interest capturing. 

Personally, I think the Bible appropriate for older "kids" as well as middle schoolers and would make a great Bible for young or new Christians. The accompanying materials are easy to understand, attention grabbing, educational, and will definitely draw the reader into a love of Bible study. 

BUY LINK: PROMO CODE- SAVE50EB (save 50%)

THIS OFFER IS ONLY AVAILABLE AT LIFEWAY.COM. ENJOY 50% OFF RETAIL PRICE FOR UP TO (1) OF EACH SKU OF THE EXPLORER BIBLE FOR KIDS. VALID THROUGH 12/31/22, CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER, LIMIT 1 COUPON PER PERSON.

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ENDS DECEMBER 17, 2022

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of The Explorer Bible to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaway is hosted by publisher and/or publicist who will provide and ship directly to the winner the prize copy. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

"I'm A Neutrino: Tiny Particles In a Big Universe" & "This Is a School" & "The Stardust That Made Us" [STEM] (Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

I'm a Neutrino: Tiny Particles in a Big Universe by Dr. Eve M. Vavagiakis & illustrated by Ilze Lemesis

My thoughts: Curious as to what a neutrino is, I Googled for a definition. Below is a screenshot of the online definition which tends to make this grandmother ponder why this is the subject matter for a kid's picturebook. But I do recognize the ability of young minds to grasp more than previously thought. As a MIT Kid's Press publication the high IQ and scientific density of such a picture book is understandable.

These super tiny particles are depicted as quirky little "critters" populating the world around us and beyond to the furthest galaxy. This is a little understood particle that physicists are learning more about as time goes along. 

So what's the purpose in introducing such material to a "picture book audience"? I'm thinking that simple introduction of terminology in an environment children understand begins to lay groundwork for future educational experiences. And while not a totally "fun" it can conceivably be enjoyed by those for whom it is intended. The back matter provided is interesting for those wishing to further pursue some information on neutrinos.

About the book: An accessible and visually arresting picture book about one of the universe's most mysterious particles for the youngest scientific minds.

Before you finish reading this sentence, trillions upon trillions of neutrinos will have passed through your body. Not sure what a neutrino is? Get an up-close-and-personal introduction in this dazzling picture book from MIT Kids Press, told in lilting rhyme from the neutrino’s point of view and filled with mind-bending, full-bleed illustrations that swirl and splash the cosmos to life. Some of the smallest bits of matter known to exist—and they exist everywhere—neutrinos are inspiring cutting-edge and Nobel Prize–winning research. Here, playful text and watercolor illustrations blended with photographs distill the concept of these mysterious particles down to its essence. “Know Your Neutrinos” end notes provide context for each spread, amplifying the science and making complex astrophysics and physics concepts approachable. This indispensable STEM title urges children to dream of contributing their own discoveries.

This Is a School by John Schu & illustrated by Veronica Miller Jamison 

My thoughts: What a delightful picture book that will ease the young child into his or her school experience. I like also that the sense of "community" is addressed several times through the book.

Cute illustrations are inclusive of a variety of ethnicity and show all working well together and happily sharing experiences.

A delightful book.

About the book: A moving celebration of school and all it may signify: work and play, creativity and trust, and a supportive community that extends beyond walls.

A school isn’t just a building; it is all the people who work and learn together. It is a place for discovery and asking questions. A place for sharing, for helping, and for community. It is a place of hope and healing, even when that community can’t be together in the same room. John Schu, a librarian and former ambassador of school libraries for Scholastic, crafts a loving letter to schools and the people that make up the communities within in a picture book debut beautifully illustrated by Veronica Miller Jamison.

The Stardust That Made Us: A Visual Exploration of Chemistry, Atoms, Elements, and the Universe by Colin Stuart & illustrated by Ximo Abadía 

My thoughts: An oversized, informational book for children that exceeds the usual educational load for young minds. Typically, the age for learning and understanding periodic tables and other "elements" of the scientific world is relegated to upper middle grades or high school. Who knew that normal, book-lovers in the elementary sphere would be interested or even adept at absorbing such material?

Yet, here it is - The Stardust That Made Us: A Visual Exploration of Chemistry, Atoms, Elements, and the Universe.  

I found it to be pretty heavy reading for the specified age group (and, yes, even for this grandmother). Though the presentation and organization is interesting, this is not a "quick read" picture book loaded with bright and engaging images. This is probably best used in school and classroom libraries and in homes where parental guidance can aid in understanding and absorbing the information. Designed for ages 8 to 12 and grades 3 to 7.

About the book: Designed to present chemistry in a new, approachable way, this book explores the history and application of chemistry in the natural world. With incredible artwork from Ximo Abadía , the reader can visualize the 118 known elements and explore the chemical makeup of the universe. With engaging, easy-to-understand text by acclaimed science writer Colin Stuart, this title will truly captivate and inspire.

GIVEAWAY

2 winners - each 1 set of books

Begins May 6

Ends June 1 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA & Canada addresses

No P.O. Boxes & Canadians must provide phone number

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DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winners' prizes are provided and shipped directly to the winners by Candlewick and/or its representatives. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. 

Hacks, Facts & the Almanac 2022 -- Summer Reading Essentials from Nat Geo Kids [Review & Giveaway]

101 Life Hacks: Genius Ways to Simplify Your World (ages 8-12)

My thoughts:  If you've lived a "frugal lifestyle" for any length of time, you already do a lot of the 101 Life Hacks that are mentioned in this little book. That doesn't mean that you can't learn a few more "make-do" or "neat-do" tricks using stuff you have for purposes not intended.

One I found doable is the bandage for the finger. Take a regular bandage and make a horizonal cut in each end of the bandage. Then apply. This creates a similar bandage to the "finger strips" that are much more expensive than standard bandages. The cut strips are maneuverable. A quick fix.

The hack to tell time with your hand and the sun is a winner! Each finger represents 15 minutes. So the number of fingers between the horizon and the sun times 15 equals the time until the sun sets.

You can amplify your phone's sound by placing the phone inside a tall glass (of course, it must be empty). The sound bounces inside the glass and echoes creating volume.

A very informative and creative book.

About the book: Turn ordinary into awesome with this fun book, jam-packed with science-inspired ideas kids can use to simplify, prettify, and eco-fy their lives at home, school, and on the go.

Upcycle, recycle, and/or repurpose your stuff and engineer your way out of all kinds of sticky situations--all while learning about science and sustainability as you do it. Make cool lantern lights for your room, discover a tried-and-true brain freeze cure, learn how to boost your memory power, and more. In this easy-to-follow guide, kids get tips and tricks for upcycling and reusing old stuff, as well as hands-on activities, fun facts, and insights from professional-grade life hackers who use their problem-solving skills to change the world. By the end, you'll be able to hack your way through all kinds of problems, from a messy backpack to stage fright, a drippy ice pop to smelly shoes!

More Surprising Stories Behind Everyday Stuff (ages 8-12) 

My thoughts: This was interesting to read and, yes, surprises abounded about how everyday stuff came into being. 

The section on food included the origin of cheese. It stated that it had long been assumed cheese originated in medieval times. But later archeologists discovered an implement with holes similar to a device used in today's cheese making straining process in Poland. They dated it back to 7,000 years ago. Also, it mentions that early humans did not have the ability to digest milk because of lactose intolerance but they would have been able to digest cheese. Interesting to consider that early humans could not handle milk of cows, goats, and sheep for nutrition.

An interesting book that will intellectually entertain for hours.

About the book: Prepare to be amazed by the surprising backstories behind the things you use or do every day. Ever wonder how haunted houses got their spooky rep; where cheese originally came from, who invented slime, why do we put money in piggy banks and how Bubble Wrap came to be?  From familiar foods and common clothing items to bizarre beauty regimens and quirky products, this book covers all your burning questions: Who thought of that? Where did that come from? Why is that a thing?

National Geographic Kids Almanac 2022 (ages 8-12) 

My thoughts: I have reviewed the National Geographic Kids Almanac for several years now. My grandchildren absolutely love this and look forward to a copy every year. 

The variety of information is simply stunning and categorized for easy finding. The history buff as well as the budding scientist will love the information. Geographic and cultural features and animals, both currently living and prehistoric, have coverage that tickle the intellect and encourage further study.

Fun, games, puzzles, jokes and riddles are sprinkled through the book giving the opportunity for a bit of fun and entertainment.

This is definitely a must have.

 "...this gathering of upbeat, vividly illustrated, browser-friendly dips into topics ranging from black holes to blue-footed boobies to Bolivian street food is hard to put down, and the pop quizzes and research guides at each chapter’s end will give studious sorts a leg up, too." - Kirkus

The latest installment of the New York Times best-selling almanac features amazing animal stories, explorer profiles, and outrageous attractions that kids know and love, plus more of the incredible inventions, awesome games, and fresh challenges for curious kids who want to learn all about the world and everything that's in it.  Tons of fun facts, crafts, activities, and fascinating features about animals, science, nature, technology, conservation help kids keep up with our quickly changing world and is why this is the number one selling kids almanac on the planet.  There's a whole chapter full of fun and games, including activities, jokes, and comics and the colorful compilation also includes an Almanac Challenge 2022 — which inspires kids to reduce their plastic waste. 

GIVEAWAY

All 3 National Geographic Books featured.

Begins July 29

Ends August 22 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

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DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies to facilitate recommendation post. Prize copies are provided and sent directly to the winner by publisher or publicist, MM Publicity. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Two reads about Olympian athlete and a beloved coach from Soulstice Publishing [Giveaway]

Abdi's World: The Black Cactus on Life, Running, and Fun

Five-time Olympian Abdi Abdirahman is releasing his new memoir right before heading to Japan for the Olympics in July. When he qualified for the 2020 Olympics, he became the oldest American runner ever to make the Olympic team.

In the book (Pub Date: 7/10, Soulstice Publishing, LLC), Abdi shares his thoughts on the world, running, and living. Readers will also discover his personal story, not just in professional distance running but also leaving Somalia for a refugee camp in Mombasa, Kenya, and eventually settling in Tucson and finding joy and opportunity in his new country.

Abdi has spent his entire adult life as a professional runner, competing in the Olympics, World Championships, major marathons, track meets, and road races worldwide. But Abdi doesn't define his life by his running career. 

Instead, Abdi believes life is defined by the choices one makes, the way you look at the world each day, and the people you surround yourself with. Known as "The Black Cactus," he is one of the most beloved and respected figures in the sport because of his longevity, work ethic, and positive attitude. 

Chasing Excellence

Chasing Excellence will take you on the fascinating and inspiring journey of Dr. Joe I. Vigil. Known simply as "Coach" to virtually everybody he has ever met, Coach Vigil rose from poverty to become a towering figure in the running world. Coach has won 19 national championships and coached 425 All-Americans, 22 Olympians, and an army of "Vigilantes" who seek to emulate his unique blend of compassion, competitive spirit, and commitment to others.

In this long-overdue biography about America's preeminent distance-running coach, author and Vigilante Pat Melgares shares Coach Vigil's tale, not just through the consummate storyteller's own words, but also through those of more than 50 former runners and foes who have been shaped by his presence over a lifetime.

"Chasing Excellence" has been Coach Vigil's mantra for decades, for himself and those he teaches. At age 91, he's as relentless as ever in that quest.

GIVEAWAY ~ 2 Books

Begins July 21

Ends August 10 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies in exchange for this book spotlight and hosting the giveaway. Since I have not read the books, I can not vouch for the content. Prizes are provided by PR By the Book LLC, Publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

"MARS IS Stark Slopes, Silvery Snow, & Startling Surprises" & "Abraham Lincoln's Dueling Words" from Peachtree Publishing [Review & Giveaway USA/CANADA]

MARS IS Stark Slopes, Silvery Snow, & Startling Surprises by Suzanne Slade 

My thoughts:  The stunning photographs taken with the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment camera along with the clear, understandable text brings the "Red Planet" a bit closer to us. Our minds can begin to grasp just what is so special and unique to Mars.

As people of Earth expand their exploration and knowledge of outer space and the planets, we begin to see that there are elements about them that are hard to comprehend.

I am delighted to read through the pages of Mars Is and see with my own eyes the images captured with this amazing camera. Information at the back of the book tells some of the story of the HiRise Camera.

I highly recommend this book for classrooms, homeschoolers, and libraries everywhere.

About the book: Award-winning author and former mechanical engineer Suzanne Slade (Countdown, A Computer Called Katherine) explores the remarkable beauty of Mars in this timely photo-packed space extravaganza.

For young readers eagerly following NASA's Mars Exploration Program and awaiting continued discoveries on the Red Planet.

For centuries, people have been intrigued by Mars, and over time, scientists have made exciting discoveries, such as the planet's Earth-like weather and seasons. But curious earthlings want to know more. Does Mars have deserts? Volcanos? Or signs of life? Could people live there someday?

Scientists decided to take a closer look. They built a powerful camera called the HiRise (High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment) and loaded it onto a rocket. The rocket blasted off on August 12, 2005, and seven months later, the camera began orbiting Mars. It sent back astounding, revealing photos showing the world what Mars really is.

With elegant spare prose, award-winning nonfiction author and former rocket engineer Suzanne Slade leads readers through some of these stunning photos taken by the most advanced camera ever sent to another planet. A visual feast for space enthusiasts and STEAM fans that will expand readers' assumptions and understanding of Mars.

Teacher's guide available! 

Abraham Lincoln's Dueling Words by Donna Janell Bowman  

My thoughts:  This story about Abraham Lincoln is a great introduction to biographic reading for elementary children. When incidents in the lives of real people are entertainingly written and illustrated, it creates a desire to further pursue learning about that person or other real people.

In this recounting of the incident involving Lincoln and his political rival, we learn that Lincoln was a flawed individual who acted in an ill conceived manner. He penned a letter to the editor using a different name than his own and this incited his rival to call him out for a duel.

Lincoln ultimately learned his lesson to guard his words carefully. The outcome of the duel was not the catastrophe it could have been.

About the book: Abraham Lincoln was known for his sense of humor. But in 1842, early in his adult life, it nearly got him into trouble. He had to use his imagination to save his career--and maybe even his life.

When Abraham Lincoln became frustrated with the actions of James Shield, a political rival, he came up with a plan. It was silly. It was clever. And it was a great big mistake! Lincoln, his future wife, and a friend of hers wrote a series of fictional letters to the editor, complaining about Shields. But when Shields took offense, he challenged Lincoln to a duel. How would our future president straighten things out and save the lives and careers of both himself and his rival?

Donna Bowman's humorous voice and S.D. Schindler's expressive illustrations are the perfect match for this story of Abraham Lincoln's humor and wit. Back matter includes an author's note with a bibliography. 

GIVEAWAY

Begins July 13

Ends August 5 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA & CANADA addresses.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Twenty-One Steps by Jeff Gottesfeld & illustrated by Matt Tavares [Review & Giveaway]

In honor of America's fallen soldiers and as Memorial Day 2021 approaches, we present....

My thoughts: A treasured presentation for children showing the beauty and somber care and minding of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier honoring America's fallen soldiers.

I knew this was a remarkable monument to America's fallen soldiers; but I did not realize the intense symbolism involved in the moment by moment, day by day care and guarding of America's unknown.

The story is beautifully written in somber tone but not too dark for children's gentle hearts and minds. It bespeaks respect and honor for one and all of those who have died in the wars fought by Americans since WWI.

The requirements and dedication of those selected to serve as guards is remarkable. 

I think this is a book every library - public, private, school, homeschool - should have on its shelves. 

About the book: With every step, the Tomb Guards pay homage to America’s fallen. Discover their story, and that of the unknown soldiers they honor, through resonant words and illustrations.

Keeping vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in Arlington National Cemetery, are the sentinel guards, whose every step, every turn, honors and remembers America’s fallen. They protect fellow soldiers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, making sure they are never alone. To stand there—with absolute precision, in every type of weather, at every moment of the day, one in a line uninterrupted since midnight July 2, 1937—is the ultimate privilege and the most difficult post to earn in the army. Everything these men and women do is in service to the Unknowns.:  Their standard is perfection.

Exactly how the unnamed men came to be entombed at Arlington, and exactly how their fellow soldiers have come to keep vigil over them, is a sobering and powerful tale, told by Jeff Gottesfeld and luminously illustrated by Matt Tavares—a tale that honors the soldiers who honor the fallen. 

GIVEAWAY

Begins May 14

Ends June 9 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA & CANADA addresses

NO P.O. BOXES, Please

Canadian winners phone nuber required

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Enter the Shadowy World of Spies and Espionage with Nat Geo Kids' TOP SECRET! [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts:  I can just imagine how intrigued and fascinated my own children would have been had this book been available when they were growing up. Mysterious and hidden secretive things and ways of behaving are always an allure to kids. Well, if we admit it, grown ups as well. Else, why in the world would the James Bond 007 series been so fascinating and other spy stories.

National Geographic has this engaging system of presenting a lot of information in a limited amount of space and in the process stimulating the reader's mind so much that he or she continues to pursue the subject via other sources.

In TOP SECRET! not only does the reader learn about spies and their methodology from times past but they have the opportunity to pursue code breaking themselves. And the book also entails hidden secrets in the world about us that are not part of the game of spying. Example: a huge hidden cave in Vietnam that actually has trees growing in it. Can you imagine?

I know just the youngster to whom I'm going to gift this over-size book jam packed with fascinating information. 

About the book: The world of spies, codes and cover-ups is always a topic of fascination for kids and playing "secret agent" with siblings and friends is a great way to give children a break from screens and get them engaging their imaginations.   The world of espionage is also a "stealthy" way to hone observation skills and encourage an interest in STEM topics, like the technology behind the gadgets, the science behind invisible ink, and the engineering feats of secret rooms and compartments.  This spring, National Geographic Kids Books is debuting Top Secret -- a new book for secret agents in training with nearly 200 pages filled with the latest intel on the world's most classified cases, top secret truths, and cryptic curiosities you could ever hope to get your fingerprints on. 

From mastering escape and evasion techniques, to crafting the perfect disguise, building a gadget on the fly or decoding secret intel, Top Secret: Spies, Codes, Capers, Gadgets and Classified Cases Revealed (National Geographic Kids Books, ages 8-12,  April 2021, Hardcover, 192 pages) takes recruits beyond the page and out into the shadow world of espionage and all things clandestine, where “all is not what it seems,” including:

• The ins and outs of international espionage
• Spy agencies across the globe
• Clandestine Dos and Don'ts (DO: Use Dead Drops, Think on Your Feet, Remember Everything! DONT: Break Cover, Trust Anyone, Admit to Anything!) 
• Fascinating profiles of history-making spies, like, "The Limping Lady" -- World War II's most dangerous spy -- and an interview with Lindsay Moram, a real-life agent of espionage for the CIA (retired 2003) 
• Hands-on how-to's, including: a step-by-step guide to setting up your own spy network and detailed info on how to make your own disguises, create fingerprint kits, engineer a deck of cards with a secret compartment, design rearview spy glasses, and mix up some invisible ink for writing secret messages
• Bold secret missions -- like how the CIA stole a Soviet spacecraft -- and gave it right back!
• Gadgets, tools of the tradecraft and surveillance equipment  
• Tips for uncovering secrets and hidden messages that are all around you -- in advertising, at amusement parks, in video games, on cash -- they are everywhere!
• Code-cracking of secret messages hidden throughout the book
• Cold cases and hidden places, cool disguises and wicked surprises, menacing mysteries, undiscovered histories, and so much more!

GIVEAWAY

Begins May 13

Ends June 8 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Calling all budding aviators ages 8-12 to discover "Planes: From the Wright Brothers to the Supersonic Jet" [Review & Giveaway, USA/CANADA]

Planes: From the Wright Brothers to the Supersonic Jet by Jan van der Veken (ISBN 978-3791374413; Hardcover $19.95; Ages 8-12; 104 pages)

My thoughts: Fascination for flying has occupied the mind of man for eons. As a child I remember my brothers and other boys making paper airplanes (with a variety of wing tip folds) and soaring them. 

Wars and military strategies advanced with ever improving equipment, specifically airplanes, to fight new and more advanced warfare. Until today's modern airplane soars at super sonic speeds wreaking havoc on enemies far and wide. 

And youngsters, both boys and girls, are continuing to be fascinated with the vehicle that soars through the air - the airplane.

In this book youngsters will learn how air moves over the wings dependent on the wing's shape and the impact such airflow has on the plane's motion. The history of the plane from its humble beginning to the marvel it is today fascinates the reader with each page turn.

The varied knowledge and skill that aviators must know and the ability to calculate variables is touched on further exploring the vastness that is the world of planes and flying them.

This is not a "kiddie" book as it is written in language understandable by the maturing child but without technicalities the field of aviation truly requires. It wets the appetite for more. It presents the types and history of aviation and planes in their fascinating capabilities to transport the individual to places around the world and on the edge of space.

A really good book to have in libraries of all types and for readers to have for hours of fascinating  perusal. 

About the book: Budding aviation fans will pore over every page of Planes: From the Wright Brothers to the Supersonic Jet. A fascinating encyclopedic guide to the history and mechanics of flight, from the Wright Brothers to the Concorde.

How does a plane move through the air? What is turbulence? What do those lines on the runways mean? All these questions and many more are answered in this gorgeously illustrated history of planes and flight. The book opens with a basic introduction to plane anatomy and shows how aircrafts have developed over the ages. Readers will then learn about aerodynamics, the mechanics of wing shape and lift, and how ailerons, propellers, and flaps work. There's even a section on communications systems, runway design, and GPS. Profiles of famous historic planes illustrate basic principles throughout the book. Readers will find out about record-breaking flights across continents and oceans; how "flying wings" evolved into the B-2 bomber; and where the world's most treacherous runways are located. A section on experimental aircraft looks at zeppelins, flying cars, and the fate of the Concorde jet. Jan Van Der Veken's lushly colored, retro drawings detail everything from plane design to the physics of flight and provide the perfect companion to his engaging text. Budding aviators will linger over every detail of this information-packed book that serves both to demystify and celebrate the miracle of flight.

GIVEAWAY

Begins March 19

Ends April 14 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Rocket Science: A Beginner’s Guide to the Fundamentals of Spaceflight by Andrew Rader, PhD & illustrated by Galen Frazer [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

My thoughts:  It has been my observation that boys are fascinated with boats, cars, planes, rockets or rather, any thing that moves, roars, beeps, bursts, flies, flashes, etc. And some girls are, too, for that matter. When raising my five children, boys and girls, they loved having things (toys, if you please; and books, too) that are based on or involve the sciences.

Rocket Science is one such book that would have delighted them. It is a book appropriate for ages 10 years and up. It all depends on their level of interest, involvement in the sciences, and specifically space sciences and the exploration thereof.

This is not a "flashy" book with cutesy pictures or illustrations nor is it a staid science book or journal. It is geared to pique the interest of the child and budding teen. It gives a fraction of information in an educational manner without the stiffness that text books generally present.

A nice glossary is provided at the back. The illustrations are striking with colors stark against the blackness that is space. Having watched the first man on the moon mission on television, it is revealing to see the evolution of rocketry through the years and the vastness of the universe that has been explored to date.

I highly endorse this book for individuals, classroom libraries, school and public libraries.

About the book: Sometimes it takes a rocket scientist to offer young readers the most engaging introduction to space travel, the solar system, and the universe.

Earth's gravity keeps our feet on the ground, and also prevents us from soaring into space. So how do we explore that vast frontier? We use rockets! Discover how rockets work--from staging to orbits to power generation, from thermal control to navigation and more. Learn how rockets and other spacecraft travel to and explore the moon, Mars, Jupiter, and beyond. Speculate about the future of space exploration--and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. In a guide ideal for aspiring rocket engineers, planetary scientists, and others who love learning about space exploration, Galen Frazer's distinctive yet accessible illustrations pair perfectly with Andrew Rader's straightforward text, together taking readers to the edge of our knowledge of space travel.

GIVEAWAY ~ 2 Winners

Begins January 19

Ends February 10 at 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA & CANADA addresses

NO P.O. Boxes

Canadian winners must provide phone number

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by publisher or publicist.

Picture book biographies of two women who made a difference: Frances Perkins & Jane Adams

Dangerous Jane: The Life and Times of Jane Adams Crusader for Peace by Suzanne Slade & illustrated by Alice Ratterree 

My thoughts:  Dangerous Jane is a beautifully illustrated story of a women born into a life of affluence. As a child, she had personal tragedies that molded her personality but didn't break her. Her mother died when Jane was two years old and a few years later Jane had what they thought might be tuberculosis which left her body deformed. She felt she was ugly and unwanted.

But then she saw the need - exceptional need - of the poor and poverty stricken people in her city. She became a person of real compassion and in adulthood turned that compassion into good works.

Later in her adult life, she traveled in Europe on behalf of the suffering people there. These people were also those with whom the United States battled during WWI. This drew opposition toward Jane.

She lived into old age continuing her good works on behalf of the poor. 

This is an exceptional children's book about an exceptional woman. A must for school and public libraries.

About the book: Jane's heart ached for the world, but what could she do to stop a war?

This energetic and inspiring picture book biography of activist Jane Addams focuses on the peace work that won her the Nobel Peace Prize. From the time she was a child, Jane's heart ached for others. At first the focus of her efforts was on poverty, and lead to the creation of Hull House, the settlement house she built in Chicago. For twenty-five years, she'd helped people from different countries live in peace at Hull House. But when war broke out, Jane decided to take on the world and become a dangerous woman for the sake of peace.

Suzanne Slade's powerful text written in free verse illuminates the life of this inspiring figure while Alice Ratterree's stunning illustrations bring Jane Addams and her world to life.

Thanks to Frances Perkins: Fighter for Workers' Rights by Deborah Hopkinson & illustrated by Kristy Caldwell

My thoughts:  As this book opens with a challenge to the young reader to consider the math of calculating when they, the reader, will qualify to receive Social Security Retirement Benefits. Unless you already know the major achievement of Frances Perkins, you may wonder just why that is an important thought to process in a biographic picture book.

Frances Perkins was born in 1880 in Boston into a home that valued education. Although women were not considered needful of education beyond the basics, her father thoroughly educated Frances. She ultimately received a Masters Degree. An amazing achievement for that time. 

But she was also taught by her parents to be a caring individual with a responsibility to help those in need at every opportunity. As a young woman, she saw the plight of young and older women working in factories - extremely long hours and under dreadful conditions. She sought ways to improve circumstances for them. This led to being appointed by the Governor of New York as a social director to improve conditions. So began her plan that worked in New York and led to her position in President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Cabinet. An as part of the President's team, she developed the Social Security System.

This is an amazing story about an amazing woman. A book that needs to be in every school and public library.

About the book: How many years will it be until you turn sixty-two? What year will that be? Once you've read Thanks to Frances Perkins, you'll know why these are important questions--and why you may want to thank Frances Perkins.

After Frances Perkins witnessed the Triangle Waist Factory fire in 1911, she was forever changed. While some activists pressed factory owners for change, Frances decided to work to bring about new laws that would force employers to treat people better and make workplaces safer. When she became Secretary of Labor in Franklin Delano Roosevelt's administration--the first woman cabinet member--Frances had the opportunity to make real her bold vision of a country where no one was left out. As a result of the Social Security program that she created, we have built a society where we help one another.

Deborah Hopkinson's energetic text and Kristy Caldwell's appealing illustrations introduce readers to a fascinating woman who has changed many American lives. Back matter features more information about Frances Perkins, Social Security, and resources for economic education.

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

An Enlisted Man's Point of View: Lessons Learned in the 199th 1966-1967 by Lee Houston

This book was a long time coming and our family was waiting for Lee to tell his story of his time in Vietnam.

Lee H. Houston: soldier, author, and my cousin.

Vietnam War and Era from this fine man's point of view. A read you don't want to miss.

Purchase a copy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0578687429/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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DISCLOSURE: This is not a sponsored promotion. I purchased my own copy and I will purchase and have delivered via Amazon to the winner.