Love You Snow Much by Melinda Lee Rathjen (Winter & Christmas board book from Worthy Kids)

My thoughts: Worthy Kids does such a grand job in publishing children's books that are absolutely delightful. Children and parents all enjoy them so much. As a grandmother I have come to trust them.

LOVE YOU SNOW MUCH by Melinda Lee Rathjen is so cheerful and uplifting. Delightful snowmen and critters, bright colorful illustrations by Megan Higgins, and sweet rhyming text that expounds the love of parent snowman for child snowman place this sweet board book in the group of must haves for children.

Puns, plays on words, rhymes. Bright colors. Cheerful characters and critters. So much to enjoy! Love it.

About the book: Share the warm thoughts you have for your cool little one with this wintry ode to a child.

In this punny, snowy love letter to a snow-child, a snow-person lists all of the ways a little snow-child is special, with humor and warm sentiments to freeze smiles in place and melt hearts. Playful verse and cozy illustrations will keep kids cuddled up all the way through the sweet, reassuring conclusion.

Disclosure: I received a copy via the Early Reviewers Program monthly contest on LibraryThing.com.

Worthy Kids has new line of Bible Stories for Babies & Toddlers - "In the Beginning" and "Noah's Ark" [Review & Giveaway]

WorthyKids/Ideals Publishing has embarked on a new venture: to create a Bible story series fit for the youngest of children. Beginning with the Creation story, In the Beginning, and with the story of the w orld wide flood in Noah's Ark  utilizing a simple vocabulary of 100 words  combined with simple straight-forward illustrations, they have brought to these young "readers" a concrete introduction into the truth of God's Word. Not intended to replace the Bible, these little board books are intended as an introduction to learning about God and His Word.

ISBN: 9780824919924
Board book ~ Ages 1 - 3My thoughts:

"Children’s Bible stories exist in abundance, but retellings aimed at babies and young toddlers can be hard to find. Author Susana Gay discovered this problem when she couldn’t find a suitable book for a baptism gift. Her solution? She worked with her young son to create Bible story books that are perfect for christenings, baby showers, and everyday use. With bold, modern art and simple words, In the Beginning and Noah’s Ark bring a fresh perspective to classic Bible stories. " [source: Worthy/Ideals]

My thoughts: A simple presentation of the Creation story for the very young child. Told with few words and illustrated simply yet definitively, the days of creation are covered. A sturdy board book that will surely endure the rough handling that little ones tend to give books.

About the book: In the Beginning tells the story of Creation in just one hundred words, highlighting key moments for little ones. Children will learn that in the beginning, everything was dark. Then God said, “Let there be light.” He created the seas and the land, the sun and the moon, all the creatures on the earth . . . and us! And then God rested.

𝌁𝌁𝌁𝌁𝌁𝌁𝌁𝌁𝌁𝌁𝌁𝌁

ISBN 9780824919917
Board book ~ Ages 1 - 3

My thoughts: The story of Noah's Ark has proven through the years to be one that young children enjoy; not because they understand the salvation message and judgment by God in the story. No, they just love the tale of lots of animals getting on board a big boat, etc.

This little board book is simply the bare bones story of the Flood and how God provided a means of saving mankind and the animals. It ends with the rainbow (a good color teaching tool).

Being a very short book for the very young child, it must be realized that the depth of the Biblical story can not be fully covered. One slight error I noticed was that all the animals entered the ark - two by two. We know that the "clean animals" were taken in sevens. This is a very good introduction to Noah's Ark for the young child. I would suggest a small "Noah's Ark" playset of little figures and an ark to enhance understanding.

About the book: Noah’s Ark Children will learn that God asked Noah to build a big boat; that it rained and rained for days; and that God saved Noah and the animals, placing a rainbow in the sky. They will learn to count the animals two by two and will discover the many colors of the rainbow.

Both books feature the vibrant artwork of Susana Gay. Uncluttered pages make a nimals and objects stand out, helping to build a child’s vocabulary as the parent or child names zebras, fish, bears, and more. These board book keepsakes are fresh, simple, and uniquely crafted for today’s families.

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 24

Ends May 4 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Author: Susana Gay is an award-winning graphic designer and the owner of Threehaus, a branding and design studio in Winter Park, Florida. Susana collaborated with her seven-year-old son, Owen, to create Noah’s Ark as a gift for a family baptism. Owen retold the story and sketched some of the fun and friendly scenes. Working with Owen, Susana polished the text and created the art. They followed Noah’s Ark with In the Beginning, resulting in a series of unique and beautiful introductions to favorite childhood Bible stories.

Worthy Publishing Group (www.worthypublishing.com) is a privately held, independent voice in inspirational publishing, based in Nashville, Tennessee. Worthy has four imprints: Worthy Books publishes a broad spectrum of genres, including current events, pop culture, biography, fiction, spiritual growth, and specialized Bibles; WorthyKids/Ideals creates colorful, interactive children’s books, including VeggieTales and Berenstain Bears, for ages 2 to 8; Ellie Claire produces beautifully crafted journals, gifts and paper expressions; and Worthy Inspired publishes inspirational felt-need, personal growth, and devotional books.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 12

Ends April 30 @ 12:01 a.m EDT

Open to Continental USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

WorthyKids/Ideals Launches Series about an Adventurous Bunny Learning to Do the Right Thing [Review & 2-book Giveaway]

No, No, Bunny (March 7, 2017; ISBN 9780824916510; $7.99; 16 pp), Little Bunny has been taking things that don’t belong to him: pennies from Mama’s purse, a friend’s toy car, and a candy bar from the store. Taking everything seemed like a good decision at the time, but now Little Bunny feels sad. He confesses to his Mama and returns the items to their owners, learning that doing what’s right is always best.

Uh-Oh, Bunny (March 7, 2017; ISBN 9780824916503; $7.99; 16 pp) finds Little Bunny being a bit careless: drawing on walls, knocking over a plant, tearing pages from a book. When Mama asks him about the messes, Little Bunny chooses to be honest, which makes Mama happy. With Mama’s help, Little Bunny cleans up each mess. Preschoolers will learn, in a gentle, non-didactic way, that telling the truth is always best.

My thoughts: Both of the Adventurous Bunny books are charming, fun reads that teach young bunny (and young human toddlers) that there are just some things they shouldn't do. The lessons are sweetly taught in the simple language and sweet illustrations.

As this Adventurous Bunny explores his world, he learns to do the right thing and his mother encourages him in the right way.

No, No, Bunny specifically focuses on wrongful acts that Bunny must learn to choose to not do such as taking things that do not belong to him.

Uh-oh, Bunny specifically focuses on Bunny's careless acts that result in his breaking or messing up things. Bunny learns to recognize how his compulsive acts cause problems.

These make nice gift books or teaching books for the young child.

About the author: Pamela Kennedy loves writing for children and has authored more than thirty books of stories, prayers, and devotions. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, playing with her grandchildren, and exploring the beaches of Puget Sound.

About the illustrator: Claire Keay lives in an ancient market town in the south of England where she works from her little home studio. After years working as a special education teacher for preschoolers, Keay decided to pursue her love of illustration. She now happily illustrates several children’s books each year, as well as children’s magazines, greeting cards, and stationery. In her spare time, Keay loves to garden, spend time with her teenage sons, and sing in her local community choir.

About the publisher: Worthy Publishing Group (www.worthypublishing.com) is a privately held, independent voice in inspirational publishing, based in Nashville, Tennessee. Worthy has four imprints: Worthy Books publishes a broad spectrum of genres, including current events, pop culture, biography, fiction, spiritual growth, and specialized Bibles; WorthyKids/Ideals creates colorful, interactive children’s books, including VeggieTales and Berenstain Bears, for ages 2 to 8; Ellie Claire produces beautifully crafted journals, gifts and paper expressions; and Worthy Inspired publishes inspirational felt-need, personal growth, and devotional books.

GIVEAWAY OF BOTH BOOKS

ONE WINNER

Begins March 8

ENDS March 21 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.
  a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure: I was provided complimentary copies to facilitate a review of my honest opinions which are given without compensation.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: THE STORY OF ROSA PARKS by Patricia A. Pingry & THE STORY OF MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. by Johnny Ray Moore [Review & Giveaway]

Introductory thoughts: The concept of biographic books for the very young is somewhat new in the genre of picture books. True, more detailed picture books have done this in past years, but to introduce individuals of fame to the "board book" crowd (think, preschoolers ages 1 to 5), stretches the imagination of authors, illustrators, and publishers. Nevertheless, we're looking at two well-known people who influenced greatly the lives of black people in America.

The Story of Rosa Parks

My thoughts: Though this is a small board book, the text and understanding would preclude it's being appropriate for preschoolers. I can see letting first and third graders read it, though they might be a bit put off with a board book.

This little biography shows Rosa Parks disobeying the law about riding the bus. It is hard for people today to understand these laws. Her actions make me think a bit of the defiance of the Patriots of the Boston Tea Party when they defied the British and tossed the tea into the sea.

The illustrations are drawings and are a bit on the "dark" side until the page where the ruling allowing people to ride the bus as they wish, and then it seems flooded with light.

About the book: This little book of only about 200 words introduces Rosa Parks, called the “mother of the civil rights movement.” Here is the story of her courageous decision to remain on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, an action that resulted in arrest and, ultimately, a victory for civil rights. The rich oil paintings by artist Steven Walker contribute to the tension of the moment and the understanding of Rosa Parks. A perfect way for the family to honor Black History Month.

The Story of Martin Luther King Jr.

My thoughts: This small board book takes the reader through the life of Martin Luther King Jr. as a boy and into his adult life. Martin's parents are depicted as gentle folk who comply with the laws that restrict where they can go and eat. Martin feels anger and his parents help him deal with it. As he grows into adult life, he trains for the ministry and begins to influence large crowds of people.

Martin is shown as a happy child except for the areas in which he faced discrimination. Martin appears to be a child of a prosperous, well educated black family with his mother a teacher and his father a preacher. But it also shows that Martin experienced discrimination.

I think the book is beautifully done in lively detail and softened colors with well written text that doesn't overcome the young listener. I think age appropriateness would be in the first through third grade range and not necessarily for preschoolers.

About the book: This little book tells the story of Martin Luther King Jr. in a way that even very young children will understand. This simple but accurate account of his life begins with King’s childhood, making it easy for little ones to relate to his story. Children will learn that he excelled in school, became a minister, and worked to end segregation in America. This book, with only about 200 words accompanied by delicate watercolors, is a great way for parents to begin to teach their children about this inspirational historical figure.

GIVEAWAY ~~ FLASH

2-Books for 1 Winner

Begins February 1

ENDS February 9

Open to USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway 
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each book to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and freely given.

God Made the Sun & God Made the Moon by Mary Manz Simon & illustrated by Lizzie Walkley [Review & Giveaway]

GOD MADE THE SUN  

ISBN: 978-0824919801
Board Book - Ages 2-5

My thoughts: This sweet little book is simply charming. The lyrical verses take the young child through the day's activities from rising to setting of Sun.

The child is joy-filled in the illustrations and this carries over into the verses that tell his little story. First the Sun is said to "smile on Earth." I think this is a great idea to present to a young child. The child splashes in the puddles left by an overnight rain because he realizes the Sun will soon dry them up. His shadow is caused by the sun and the sun plays hide and seek behind the clouds.

A simple introduction to the Sun's purpose and how God designed it to be a blessing to us.

Then, when the sun starts sliding down and carries off the light,

I'm sure that God, who made the sun, will stay with me tonight.

About the book: God Made the Sun: God Made the Sun is a celebration of God’s gift of daytime to the world. Beginning with the first rays of sunlight and moving through the day, this book reminds little ones that God’s love shines on us just as the sun shines on the earth. With its lyrical rhythm, sweet illustrations, and novelty diecut feature, the book will serve as a welcome reminder of God’s presence in our lives.

GOD MADE THE MOON

ISBN: 978-0824919818
Board book Ages 2-5

My thoughts: After the Sun sets for the day the Moon rises bringing with it the comfort that God is watching over him with the light of the Moon that God set in the sky.

God made the moon to smile on Earth and fill the dark with light.

The moon reminds us of the love God sends to us each night.

The joys of the night are brought out as the child enjoys the stars, light bugs, and chirping crickets. Bath time and preparation for bed starts and "The shining moon reminds me that God watches from above."

This is a charming book and goes wonderfully with God Made the Sun.

About the book: God Made the Moon: God Made the Moon is a celebration of God’s gift of nighttime to the world. Beginning with the first hints of dusk and ending with a bedtime prayer, this book reminds little ones that God’s love shines on us just as the moon shines on the earth. With its lyrical rhythm, sweet illustrations, and novelty diecut feature, the book will be a welcome addition to any child’s bedtime rituals.

I highly recommend parents (aunties, uncles, and grandparents) to get this set for the wee little ones in your family. They are treasures.

GIVEAWAY

2 books for 1 winner: God Made the Sun & God Made the Moon

Begins September 8

ENDS September 26

Open to USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I was provided copies by Worthy Publications First Look Blogger Review Program to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated. Winner's prize will be shipped directly to the winner by the publisher.

Happy Birthday to You! (music button board book) by Michelle Medlock Adams & illustrated by Sandra Rodriguez [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9780824919825
Board book $12.99

My thoughts: This little book is sized just right for little hands and it is one of those treasured "Press the button and sing along" books that the kiddies love. Worthy Kids/Ideals has several of these and they are always a hit with the kiddies. Played repeatedly and carried about through the day they won't be a big irritant because the music is soft but loud enough for most little ears.

As the child has a celebration whether large or small on his or her birthday, this book will bring added joy with it's musical component and also because it can be personalized. It can be used in a family of several small children by bringing it out for the celebration day and using the "birthday child's" picture. Fun! And doing this will teach sharing.

Auntie or Grandmommie will love to get this as a little birthday treasure. This book is about a child's birthday and there is a party with friends over, games, presents, and cake. If a child is only having a quiet birthday at home with family, this book might not be appropriate. It is charming and fun and ends with "And when your birthday's almost through, I'll say a prayer of thanks for you. You are a special birthday star, and I'm so proud of who you are!' This is a small token to Christianity with it's being published by a Christian publishing house.

Cute illustrations with bright colors enhance and help to engage the child. A fun book that I can recommend.

About the book: Though all children may not struggle with who they are, every child has a birthday. Happy Birthday to You! celebrates the excitement children feel on their special day. The book has a sound button that plays the birthday song, and a photo pocket so it can be personalized for a birthday boy or girl.

GIVEAWAY - 1 Winner

1 copy of God Made You Just Right & 

1 copy of Happy Birthday To You

Begins August 9

Ends August 29 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

Giveaway provided by Worthy Kids / Ideals Publishing

a Rafflecopter giveaway

See my review of God Made You Just Right on Chat With Vera.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Worth Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and I was not compensated.

GOD MADE YOU JUST RIGHT by Jill Roman Lord [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN13: 9780824919764
Board Book - $7.99

My thoughts: Very young children need books and those books should be sturdy and they should have a decidedly artistic appeal and valuable message or story. In Jill Roman Lord's charming rhyme extolling the message to the young boy or girl that there is a purpose in how God has designed them (or made them) and that the design is just right, the criteria for a child's book is met.

Sized just right for youngster's little hands and with enough pages to give more opportunity for enjoyment than some typical board books.

The sweet, colorful, and charmingly playful illustrations by Amy Wummer will engage the child and encourage repeated readings. Probably so many readings that the child will end up memorizing the poem. And at the end of the book......

a verse.....

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

In a nutshell, the book tells ....little ones that God created each of us in just the right way."  A charming book that I recommend you acquire and place in the hands of some sweet young child.

About the book: Here is a message that every parent will want to share with his or her child: "You're brilliantly created and there's no one else like you!" With easy-to-understand descriptions and simple, rhyming text, Jill Roman Lord shares the message that God created each of us in just the right way in a manner that even the youngest child will understand. Bright and engaging illustrations from Amy Wummer pair perfectly with the text and enhance the appeal of the book.

GIVEAWAY - 1 Winner

1 copy of God Made You Just Right & 

1 copy of Happy Birthday To You

Begins August 9

Ends August 29 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

Giveaway provided by Worthy Kids / Ideals Publishing

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Watch for Chat With Vera's review of Happy Birthday To You very soon!

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Worth Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and I was not compensated.

WOULD A WORM GO ON A WALK? by Hannah C. Hall & illustrated by Bill Bolton [Review & Giveaway]

Hardcover - Ages 4-7
ISBN13: 9780824956776

About the book: A comical picture book about the unique qualities of various creatures and how they were planned to be just that way by a loving, wise Creator. So begins this humorous and imaginative picture book that introduces children to the idea that animals are uniquely created by a loving and wise God. Would a Worm Go on a Walk?, with its colorful, comical illustrations, is a fresh, fun way to teach young children that God gave all the animals--and each of us--wonderful qualities and unique strengths. Children will giggle over the ridiculous scenarios presented, and they will come away with the knowledge that we all are loved and special.

My thoughts: It is always a joy and delight to be able to help young children come to a knowledge that all of Creation was made by God and that each creature does what it does simply because it was designed that way by God the Creator. When it can be taught in an entertaining and educational way that is within the levels that will capture the imagination of the young child, it is a true prize indeed.

Would A Worm Go On A Walk? is just such a prize. Written by Hannah C. Hall in good rhyme that flows beautifully and illustrated in such a joyful and delightful way by Bill Bolton, the book will entertain with quirky critters and questions about them - kind of nonsense stuff.  We all know worms don't have feet to walk, but to ask the question "Would a worm go on a walk?" tickles that nonsensical funny bone we all have.

Ending with a strong finish that declares that "God's masterpiece Is YOU!" ("God saw all that he had made, and it was very good." --Genesis 1:31a)

They look just as he wanted,

and they act just as they should.

He made them and he loves them,

and he calls them very good.

But God's designs weren't finished.

His special plans weren't through.

The ANIMALS were just a start.

God's masterpiece is YOU!

GIVEAWAY
Begins April 7

ENDS April 28  @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 

 Open to USA addresses only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway 

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Worthy Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own, alone and I was not compensated.