1,000 Facts About the White House from National Geographic [Review & Giveaway]

“Tailor-made for browsing but with plenty of nutritious content for young historians and prospective visitors.” - Kirkus

ISBN: 9781426328732
Ages 8-12 - $14.99

My thoughts:  Visiting America's beloved White House should not just be an occasion to see spectacular or grand objects. It should be a learning experience about what is "behind" these things and why they are where they are. So before visiting, grab a book and learn about what's inside the White House so it will be more meaningful. If you don't have that option, grab a book and do a bit of "hindsight" learning.

In 1,000 Facts About the White House National Geographic brings the reader face-to-face with the history and current life that transpires within its beloved walls.  As home of the United States President during the term of office, it is the often the location for State occasions as well as a place the President and his family abide.

The book is jam-packed with bits of information laid out in information-blocks and interspersed with photographs or drawings. The book is not just about the objects within rooms, it has bits and pieces of information about fashion, food, pets, and daily life.

The book is designed for the age 8-12 reader and will provide interesting information that adults will find entertaining and enlightening as well.

I think this is a grand book for anyone about to visit or who has visited the White House. I think, too, that every school and public library needs to be certain they have a copy for their readers. I recommend this book.

About the book: On the heels of a high-profile renovation and in the midst of what may be considered the most controversial presidency in modern history, no house is more in the spotlight than the president’s residence. Now, in consultation with the White House Historical Association, Nat Geo Kids Books takes kids behind the scenes to explore the people, the grounds, the home and the history of the White House. This book provides a 360-degree view of America's most famous president’s residence, from how it was built in 1792 and the fire of 1812, to today's state dinners, celebrations, celebrity pets, and more. Discover through 1,000 fun-to-read facts what it's like to live and work at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, the quirky rules of the house and how the Secret Service keeps it safe. Find out how the kids who have lived there play, watch movies, and entertain friends. With a treasure trove of material from the White House Historical Association, this book presents a fascinating story of the building and the many people who have shaped its 225-year history.

GIVEAWAY

Begins January 31

Ends February  22 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of National Geographic Kids to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Winner's copy will be provided by publicist or publisher and sent directly to the winner.

Night Creepers by Linda Stanek & illustrated by Shennen Bersani [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts: As with other books from Arbordale Publishing, the illustrations are well done and engage the reader for their beauty and accuracy. And also, the educational factor of Arbordale books makes them particularly good for inclusion in the elementary classroom, libraries both school and public, and the home. The back pages always include information that provide information suitable for deeper delving into the subject of the book and that take the reader into areas of information associated with the central theme of the book.

In Night Creepers the reader will become acquainted with creatures that traditionally avoid being seen because they are protected by cover of darkness and there is not a lot observation that goes on at night. If you've lived in a suburban area, small town, or country setting you are most likely acquainted with the fire fly. Kids through the years have captured them and placed them in jars in order to watch them twinkle on and off. Hopefully, they kindly released them back to their natural elements. The little fire fly may be a child's only opportunity to see critter activity after dark.

The book is written in flowing prose that will engage the young elementary grade child, but the book can be looked at and "read" to the young child still unable to read. The book is not so "cutsey" that the older, reluctant reader wouldn't be inclined to read. Each two-page spread consists of a "heading" that captures the essence of that Night Creeper critter and in the side bar there is adequate information that explains the nature and behavior of the critter.

I really love the illustrations and like how the artist shows the varying ages of the critters and their activities. Young children will love them.

I highly recommend this book for inclusion in libraries frequented by children, elementary classrooms, and for home use.

Features from Arbordale: 

• Click for special classroom or directed Teacher Activities  
• Keywords: nocturnal animals, crepuscular animals, diurnal, night adaptations, light shine, eyeshine
• Animals in the book: red fox, wolf, bat, flying squirrel, skunk, opossum, bullfrog, firefly, raccoon, owl, bobcat, white-tailed deer

About the book: A perfect nap or bedtime story told with short, lyrical text, young readers learn about crepuscular and nocturnal animals and some of their behaviors. Older readers learn more about each animal with sidebar information.

This nonfiction picture book with a cuddle factor includes a 4-page For Creative Minds section in the back of the book and a 30-page cross-curricular Teaching Activity Guide online. Night Creepers is vetted by experts and designed to encourage parental engagement. Its extensive back matter helps teachers with time-saving lesson ideas, provides extensions for science, math, and social studies units, and uses inquiry-based learning to help build critical thinking skills in young readers.

GIVEAWAY

Begins January 30

Ends February 20 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Arbordale Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided by and sent directly to the winner by the publisher.

High Treason by DiAnn Mills

My thoughts: The story takes the reader into the tense world where security for a Prince of Saudi Arabia visiting America with his family and his life is threatened. Combining the forces of the Prince's own security force with that of the FBI still seems to leave holes of vulnerability. The problem is finding the source of danger and ending it.

But when it seems that there is someone close to the Prince that is at the root of the problem but they don't know who it is, all are suspect.

At stake is not only the life of the Prince but the relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia which is already tenuous. The Prince while adhering strongly to cultural customs of his own country and beliefs is considering changes economically and culturally - in relation to how women are treated. With that in play, how will CIA (aka, FBI) agent Monica be able to work in the security detail and inside the Prince's own household?

A fast paced story that leaves the reader anxious for the next page turn. The culprit behind the entire conspiracy is not revealed for certain until very near the end of the book keeping characters and reader guessing.

A good read!

About the book: When Saudi Prince Omar bin Talal visits Houston to seek cancer treatment for his mother, an attempt on his life puts all agencies on high alert. FBI Special Agent Kord Davidson is the lead on the prince’s protective detail because of their long-standing friendship, but he’s surprised—and none too happy—when the CIA brings one of their operatives, Monica Alden, in on the task force after the assassination attempt. Kord and Monica must quickly put aside interagency squabbles, however, when they learn the prince has additional motives for his visit—plans to promote stronger ties with the US and encourage economic growth and westernization in his own country. Plans that could easily incite a number of suspects both in the US and in countries hostile to Saudi Arabia. Worse yet, the would-be assassin always seems to be one step ahead of them, implicating someone close to the prince—or the investigation. But who would be willing to commit high treason, and can Kord and Monica stop them in time?

Find a copy here: Tyndale Media Center or at your favorite book seller.

DISCLOSURE: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy ti facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

The Extra Special Baby: The Story of the Christmas Promise by Antonia Woodward (A Christmas anytime book)

You're probably wondering just what is going on when a blogger reviews a children's "Christmas" book at the end of January, and I really do realize it is a long time until Christmas 2018 rolls around. But given all that and for some unknown reason the book simply wasn't available until now. But I want to review it and I want to do so now. Amazon.com shows the "release date" as January 16, 2018 so I am just assuming this is such a lovely book they can't wait until "Christmas 2018" for the release. I heartily agree.

My thoughts: First of all I simply love the illustrations and tones of color used in the illustrations. And then I believe the author Antonia Woodward has retold the Biblical text in a charming, lyrical, and beautifully flowing story that brings dignity to what often is told in a "cutesy" style for young readers. When telling a young child the story of the Christ Child's birth or any other retelling of Biblical events, it is important that one recount the story on a level easily understood by the listener but to do so with beauty and dignity that Biblical accounts richly deserve.

The story begins with the Wise Men seeing the wonder in the heavens.

A long time ago, a long way away; some very clever men were doing very clever things. The read lots of scrolls and studied the stars. They discovered a very exciting promise written across time. Someone was coming..... Someone so extra special.

And then they go on their way, their long journey to find this someone special. The story then speaks of Mary and the annunciation. ..... "Your baby will be extra special because he will be God's own Son, come from heaven to live on earth."

Then the announcement by the angel in a dream to Joseph is made. Time goes on and and they travel to Bethlehem for the taxing and find the inns full but.... "The Extra Special Baby that God had made, and the angel had announced was born not in a palace, not even in a house, but in the corner of a stable, surrounded by animals."

And then the angels announced the birth to the shepherds in the field.... "Suddenly an angel in glorious glow flooded the hillside with light....."

The recounting of the Wise Men finally reaching the special child - when he was a toddler - is told and the book ends with another angel visitation where Joseph is told to leave..... "It is no longer safe for you here....travel ... to another land.... child can be out of harm's way."

The book doesn't end there, but shows the child growing to a special man who brought the blessings of heaven to the people of earth.

Antonia Woodward's art for this book is done in warm, soft pastels and neutrals in a cozy style that gets to the heart of God's love in giving His Son to Earth.

So, I don't see this as just a Christmas story, but a beloved retelling of Christ's coming to Earth to bring God's blessings to Earth.

You can find a copy at Kregel.com or perhaps at your favorite book vendor.

About the book: A long time ago, a long way away, some very clever men discovered a very exciting promise! In Bethlehem, under the quiet night sky, an Extra Special Baby was born. Let Antonia Woodward’s beautiful retelling of the Nativity story take you back to the excitement of that very first Christmas night. Read about the baby that was so extra special that life on earth would change forever, in this exquisitely illustrated Christmas picture book, full of warmth.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel on behalf of Lion Hudson children's books to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

Learn About Germany and Poland in the "If You Were Me and Lived In...." series by Carole P. Roman [Review & Giveaway]

Map of modern Germany and Poland

A region in Europe with a long history of conflict is centered in the area that is home to Germany and Poland. Their history goes back well into the medieval ages and their conflict of culture and boundaries is documented in histories near-ancient and modern.

Author Carole P. Roman takes the young reader to Germany and Poland and helps them imagine themselves as a child living in homes and going to school.  These books are not history discourses and do not point out the centuries of conflict in the region encompassed by Poland and Germany. They are introductions into the cultures of the area.

If You Were Me and Lived in ... Poland

About the book: Join Carole P. Roman when she visits Poland in the newest book of her informative series. Learn about the varied customs and cultures. Travel to Eastern Europe to discover what you would eat and do for fun. See the land through the eyes of a youngster like you and understand what life is like in this exciting place. 

My thoughts: Poland is a land rich in history. In musical history, Poland boasts being the birthplace of Frederick Chopin. If you love classical music, you are much aware of his beautiful music. This little book speaks of benches with buttons you can push and they render Chopin's music. What a treat to enjoy. Also, the discovery of how our Earth moves around the Sun was made by a Polish scientist, Nicolaus Copernicus and the famous salt mine that has many beautifully carved chambers is accented as Polish heritage.

In each of the "If You Were Me" books by Roman, the story line is basically the same in which the boy and girl associate themselves in a Polish family going about their day - eating, playing, going to school and identifying landmarks. I find it fascinating to see the food eaten at a meal or perhaps a treat purchased while out-and-about. Playing in Poland usually is an out of doors activity but they have a few inside toys.

The glossary at the end of the book will help the young reader pronounce and define words particular to Poland.

Another entertaining source to educate on the geographic and cultural information of a country for the young reader.

If You Were Me and Lived in ... Germany

About the book: Join Carole P. Roman when she visits the beautiful land of Germany in the newest book of her informative series. Learn about the varied customs and cultures. Travel to the central Europe to discover what you would eat and do for fun. See the land through the eyes of a youngster like you and understand what life is like in this exciting place.

My thoughts: Beautifully illustrated with cheerful people, and combined drawings and photographs the social story of Germany is told touching on family life and the names of items such as food, toys, school. The area is Bavaria and is beautifully forested. The food you would eat at home or when on an outing is described and makes me long for a good German inspired Reuben. The love of soccer and the Oktoberfest which they have been celebrating for centuries are much anticipated and loved activities.

The location of Germany on the world globe with famous landmark buildings and locations touches on the geography of the country but the main focus is understanding the people and their interactions and daily life.

Some accomplishments of the Germanic peoples are the focus in this introduction to cultures highlighting the good from this area and not the dark history that has plagued them. The glossary at the end of the book aids in definition and pronunciation of a variety of words.

This will be a good entertaining and educational introduction to the culture of Germany for children.

GIVEAWAY

5 Winners, Each Win 2 Books
Begins January 28

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

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 are freely given. Winners' copies are sent compliments of and directly to them by the author.

Good Earth Beauty's fabulous Soap Sampler helps you to come delightfully clean [Review & Giveaway]

What's in your soap dish!

Through the years I have used many types of soap beginning with Ivory Soap (you know the white bar that floats?) and then other brands that include deodorant soaps (with chemicals to deodorize our bodies), detergent "soaps" that are "better" for our skin, and perfumed soaps that run the gamut of sensual delights.

There is a movement afoot to do many things in a more natural manner utilizing tried and proven methods and simpler ingredients. This new movement is a back to the old ways in feeding ourselves and caring for our bodies inside and out.

So today, we're going to look at some natural  soaps that are made in the USA and in small batches using natural and sustainable ingredients.  And when we're finished, you will have an opportunity to be one of two winners of a cute little burlap bag with three 3-half bar soap samples.

Clay Detox, Activated Charcoal, & Honey Oatmeal Scrub 3-bar Sampler Pack

Activated Charcoal Soap 

Soaps that include the ingredient of activated charcoal are usually good for folks who have issues with rashes, acne, and irritations of the skin. The tea tree oil combined with the activated charcoal should be helpful for those who need an extra bit of help in taking care of their skin. Probably it will be good for anyone's skin.

About it: Ingredients: saponified organic olive, coconut, palm oil and shea butter, activated charcoal, tea tree and lavender essential oils

Honey Oatmeal Scrub 

I've used a variety of scrubs and found them to be a bit "much." They scrub too intensely and leave a residue in the bath. This Honey Oatmeal Scrub bar of soap lathers nicely and has a brisk scrubbing effect. Residue in the bath was minimal. I encourage using a nice lotion following use of a scrub. I enjoyed using this and can easily recommend it.

About it: Ingredients - saponified organic olive, coconut, palm oil and shea butter, goat milk, honey, oatmeal, crushed apricot seeds, unscented.

Bentonite Clay Detox Soap 

I've never had problem skin and am so very thankful for that blessing. I see a lot of information about treatments for skin problems and am amazed at products naturalists use for cleansing and detoxing the skin. We are all aware that some folks have issues with the pores of their skin becoming plugged with oils and impurities that cause breakouts. Some folks like bars of gel "soap" for cleansing and others like bars of soap that include various clays. Who would ever suspect that something from the soil itself could cleanse and detox? However, including bentonite clay in the Good Earth Beauty detox soap doesn't seem like you're "soiling" your face. My face felt amazingly clean, soft, and fresh after lathering it with the Bentonite Clay Detox Soap from Good Earth Beauty.

Later, when I used it for my bath, the fragrance was so refreshing. Men or women would both enjoy this scent and it feels so good on my skin.

I can highly recommend it for face and all over washing. The fragrance is refreshing and I enjoyed it very much.

About it: Bentonite clay is said to be detoxing and is commonly used in mud masks to pull the impurities and toxins from the body.   Our soap is blended with lavender, litsea, and patchouli essential oils for wonderfully fresh natural detox properties, a great complexion Soap.

Seasonal Scents - Honey Oatmeal, Pumpkin, and Vanilla 3-bar Soap Sampler

Pumpkin Soap 

Those of my readers who follow my reviews already know that I absolutely love Good Earth Beauty's Pumpkin Soap. This soap is particularly divine feeling as you're using it and for how you skin feels afterward. The scent is absolutely heavenly and doesn't linger where it might conflict with whatever scent you choose to wear for the day. Love it!

About it: All natural Pumpkin Soap with Pumpkin Puree and Pumpkin seed oil, Great seasonal pumpkin scent, Ingredients, Saponified oils of olive, coconut, palm shea butter and pumpkin seed, pumpkin puree, natural pumpkin fragrance oil.

All Natural Vanilla Soap

When I used this vanilla soap in the bath, I found it lathered nicely and had a very gentle scent. No, you won't smell like a cake or cookie reeking with the scent of vanilla flavoring. It is a nice gentle fragrance. My skin had a nice clean feel and doesn't feel dried or chaffed at all. Nice. The lovely oils used in creating this soap add richness that can surely work wonders on your skin.

About it: Ingredients: saponified organic olive, coconut, palm oil and shea butter, natural fragrance oil

GIVEAWAY
2 winners - each a 3-half bar soap sampler

When winner is notified, they will go to soap sampler page and choose the 3 bars they would like in their sampler. 
Begins January 27
Ends February 19 @ 12:01 a.m. EST
Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Can't wait to see if you're a winner? Go ahead and buy some for yourself or a friend. Use discount code GEB10 for a 10% discount.

Which 3 soaps will you pick?

DISCLOSURE: I received sample size bars of Good Earth Beauty soap to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Winners' prize will be sent directly to them by Good Earth Beauty. Product information on soaps may be located on https://www.goodearthbeauty.com/soap-sampler-3-half-bars-burlap-bag

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Giveaway

Begins January 23

Ends February 5 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Continental US only

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