Stores Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas ~ Review

Stories Behind the Great
 Traditions of Christmas
By Ace Collins

There are so many traditions involved with Christmas and all too often they are just done because it is the thing to do. But how often do we wonder about the reason behind these traditions and when they began?

In Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas Ace Collins shares with readers what he knows about a variety of the traditions. And the nostalgic yearning for Christmas of old - well it may not be how you imagine it was. Christmas was a celebration that would not bring a nostalgic remembrance before the nineteenth century - be sure to read the introduction and I think you'll agree it would have been a day to avoid.

The various aspects of what we have come to associate with Christmas are presented in 26 chapters starting with Advent and ending with Yule Logs. Some of these traditions have a spiritual aspect while others have just been accepted as part of the season because they draw friends and family together in a sharing of "the wonder, joy, and magic of the season. ... And that spirit is something worth celebrating."(pg. 148)

I enjoyed the history of the candy cane, mistletoe, and the X in Xmas (which has been in use since the sixteenth century). This is a book with much to offer in just over 200 pages and one that would be useful to have on hand whenever one has a question arise about any of these traditions. Did you know that The Nutcracker was vastly different than the ballet that is performed every year? It went through several transformations before it became the beloved performance that it is today.

This is a book that you'll want to share with friends and family - I know I did as I read through it which may have slowed down my reading as I went back to different sections that caught my attention. This book would also lend itself well to family reading time with all hearing it together and then discussing what was read. But however, you choose to read and share you'll enjoy and value the knowledge you will have gained.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through BookLook with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:
The fascinating stories and origins behind Christmas traditions such as the colors of red and green, the Christmas tree, caroling, nativity scenes, the Yule log, gift-giving, stockings, advent wreaths, mistletoe, and holly.

The cheer of a crackling hearth fire. Colorful cards from friends and loved ones. An evergreen tree festooned with ornaments. The golden traditions of Christmas—gifts, wreaths, stockings, carols, mistletoe, and more—infuse our celebration of the season with meaning and glowing memories. And, in ways you may not realize, they point us to the birth of Christ. Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas reveals the people, places, and events that shaped the best-loved customs of this merriest of holidays. Here are spiritual insights, true-life tales, and captivating legends to intrigue you and your family and bring new luster and depth to your celebration of Jesus’ birth. 

Discover how 

• after eighteen centuries of all but ignoring the event, churches began to open the door for believers to commemorate Jesus’ incarnation. 

 • the evergreen tree, once a central theme in the worship practices of pagan cultures, came to represent the everlasting love of God. 

 • the magi’s three gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—are filled with spiritual symbolism.

The traditions of Christmas lend beauty, awe, and hope to the holiday, causing people all over the world to anticipate it with joy. The stories in this book will warm your heart as you rediscover the true and eternal significance of Christmas.

All the Colors That I See ~ Review

All the Colors That I See
Written by Pamela Kennedy
Illustrated by Holli Conger

Red, blue, green, yellow, orange, brown, purple, gray, white, and black. This cute little board book will teach your little ones about color in a fun interactive way. Each color has a specific activity that the reader is supposed to accomplish while identifying the color. The odd numbered pages (1-17) have the color name centered with the rest of the page showing the color. The facing even numbered pages (2-18) have a scene in which there are various examples of the color which the child then points out. The final two pages have the child using the knowledge they have gained to identify the colors in the picture and offer a Bible verse - Ecclesiastes 3:11.

The book is approximately 6-1/4" x 6-1/2" a good size for little hands to hold and sturdy enough to withstand the inevitable drop. There are 20 unnumbered pages which will hold up to sticky fingers and not tear during the page turning.  This would make a lovely gift for the new big brother or sister-to-be. I can also see this as a fun time spent with Grandma or Grandpa cuddling and reading together.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher B&H with no expectations of a positive review.  All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

What favorite color did God give you?

Green and yellow, red and blue...little ones can learn their colors and learn that each came from God! Toddlers will be encouraged to touch, tap, or pat colors on each page, and a sneaky chameleon will follow them along the way.

When We Say Father ~ Review

When We Say Father
Unlocking the Power of the Lord's Prayer
By Adrian Rogers and
     Steve Rogers

When we say Father we come to the name with certain expectations or disappointments all based on our previous experiences with our own fathers. But this is not how we should come before our Heavenly Father. Rather we need to reset our thinking because God our Father is so much more than what we've ever experienced in our current physical experience.

Prayer is a conversation with God and we've been given an example of how we are to begin this conversation with the Lord's Prayer. We are to come before God addressing his nurturing nature - that of an ideal father. We come before God addressing Him as Father but we must realize that He is not the Father to all but rather to those who have accepted His gift of being born into His family.

I really like When We Say Father and how each line of the prayer is addressed and explained - putting it into perspective for our own lives. When we pray we are to start out by addressing God directly exalting His name. We then ask for His will to be done - in other words, we put God and His wants first in our conversation. By putting God first we don't focus on ourselves - who would start off a conversation with someone saying, "I want such-and-such and this-and-that." Self-focus distracts us from a full and meaningful conversation with God. Only after we focus on God do we ask Him to provide for our daily needs (when we worry about the day-to-day things we are insulting God by not trusting Him to provide).  We follow this by asking for His forgiveness and His assistance to avoid temptations that would lead us into future sins. We end our conversation as we began it focusing on our Father, His kingdom, and His everlasting glory.

This is a lovely book that helps one to understand in a more complete way the gift of prayer. The small size makes it easy to handle and to keep readily handy. You'll want to reread this book as you grow in your daily prayer life with the various scripture references it will prove to be a valuable aid.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher BH Publishing with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

About the Book:
Adrian Roger's last written manuscript before his passing in 2005, has been edited and brought together by his son Steve, as a final joint work. When We Say Father takes the Lord's Prayer and breaks it down to its most basic components for readers to easily learn how to pray from the ultimate source, Jesus himself.

Buckaroo Buckeye ~ Spotlight with Giveaway

Book Details:
Book Title: Buckaroo Buckeye: A Little Nut with Big Dreams
Author: Kristin Anderson Cetone
Illustrator: Nadia Komorova
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 36 pages
Genre: Friendship, Social Skills and School Life, Bullies, Growing Up and Facts of Life
Publisher: KLAC Enterprises, LLC
Release date: September 1, 2012
Tour dates: May 21 to June 15, 2018
Content Rating: G

​Book Description:

Winner of the Mom's Choice Silver and OneBookAZ Awards!

There's a new cowboy in town! Hit the trail with Buckaroo Buckeye, a lovable little nut who falls from his tree in Ohio, as he dodges the bumps and bullies along the way in a magical journey to find his true place in the world.

Created by Reading Specialist Kristin Cetone, Buckaroo Buckeye teaches children 4-8 to:

• Learn to ignore bullies
• Improve their self-esteem
• Connect with reading
• "Dream, Believe and Achieve" no matter their size!

Your child will be inspired by Buckaroo's determination in this touching story with unforgettable characters illustrated by Nadia Komorova. Get yours today!

Buy the Book:
Amazon
Add to Goodreads

Watch the book trailer:

Meet the author:

Buckaroo Buckeye grew out of author Kristin Anderson Cetone's imagination and joy of reading.

Born in Dayton, Ohio, she traveled many miles before putting down roots in the Arizona desert. Influenced by family, education, life experiences, and a desire to teach others, Mrs. Cetone discovered her purpose---just like Buckaroo Buckeye did.

Her true calling and passion is writing and helping others become successful readers. She created Buckaroo to encourage children to believe in themselves and follow their dreams while dodging the bumps and bullies along the way. Reading will help guide the way. Being a Reading Specialist, she has also created Nuts About Reading™ an informal, supplemental, online reading service. She shares her insights and suggestions to help parents strengthen their children's reading process and become successful readers.

Her joy now is to inspire and help kids to find the Buckaroo Buckeye in themselves.

Connect with the Author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Pinterest ~ Instagram

Giveaway:

Prize: Win a signed copy of Buckaroo Buckeye

plus a $5 Amazon.com gift card

(open to USA and Canada - 1 winner)

(ends June 23, 2018)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

BOOK SPOTLIGHT TOUR SCHEDULE:

May 21 - Rockin' Book Reviews - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

May 21 - Blooming with Books - book spotlight / giveaway

May 22 - Library of Clean Reads - book spotlight / giveaway

May 23 - Words and Peace - book spotlight / giveaway

May 24 - Brooke Blogs - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

May 25 - Hall Ways Blog - book spotlight / author interview / giveaway

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June 1 - Bound 2 Escape - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

June 4 - This and That Book Blog - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

June 5 - A Mama's Corner of the World - book spotlight / giveaway

June 6 - 100 Pages A Day - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

June 7 - Books are love - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

June 8 - Svetlana's Reads and Views - book spotlight / giveaway

June 11 - Nighttime Reading Center - book spotlight / giveaway

June 12 - The Autistic Gamer - book spotlight / giveaway

June 13 - The Book Girl - book spotlight / author interview / giveaway

June 13 - JBronder Book Reviews - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

June 14 - Jaquo Lifestyle Magazine - book spotlight / author interview

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Defeating Dementia ~ Review

Defeating Dementia 
What You Can Do to Prevent Alzheimer's and Other Forms of Dementia
By Richard Furman MD, FACS

Dementia. 

Alzheimer's. 

Both words conjure up feelings of dread - fear of what may be ahead. But what does one truly know about this topic? In Defeating Dementia Richard Furman attempts to educate the reader in both the stages of Alzheimer's and the steps one can take to reduce the risks of developing this dreaded condition.

Offering personal insights into his mother-in-law's progression through the stages of Alzheimer's Dr. Furman shares the slow and steady mental decline of a loved one. These insights are offered throughout the book as the disease is explained in terms that most people can readily understand. Possible causes are explored as well as lifestyle changes one can make when diagnosed to hopefully slow the progression. Those who have no symptoms can also benefit by taking proactive measures to hopefully stop dementia before it starts.

One statement that is worth memorizing (per Dr. Furman on page 81) is "a healthy brain depends on the health of the heart as well as the arteries of the heart and the brain." The heart-brain connection is vital as it supplies the brain with the oxygen and the nutrients it needs while removing waste from the brain. 

The five risk factors that one needs to eliminate (high cholesterol, a sedentary lifestyle, excess weight, high blood pressure, and diabetes) are examined, with each having a chapter devoted to each. Similarly, the lifestyle changes one can make are also covered in their own chapters. A healthy diet which is more plant-based while eliminating saturated fats, sugar, and alcohol. Sample meals are presented so that the reader has an idea of what to eat. Achieving an ideal weight is important with tips on how to make it happen. Exercising so that one has regular physical activity thus increasing blood flow to the brain and offering other heart and brain health benefits. The final change is to stay mentally and socially active - in other words, exercise your brain by making it work.

I highly recommend this book to any and all readers as it is beneficial to everyone and it is never too early or even too late to make a change. There is always something one can do to extend the health of one's life and by following these recommendations this has both physical and mental benefits.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Revell with no expectation of a positive review ~ All opinions expressed are my own.

  

About the Book:

In the fight against dementia, the most powerful player is you.

Dementia. It's one of the most dreaded conditions we face as we age. Many people claim they would rather be diagnosed with cancer than Alzheimer's. What many don't realize is that dementia is not a forgone conclusion as we get older. Our own lifestyle choices and habits can have a significant impact--for good or ill--on our chances of developing the disease.

And that means there's hope.

Drawing from the latest medical research, Dr. Richard Furman helps you understand dementia and Alzheimer's and shows you how to make three powerful lifestyle changes that can help decrease the probability of developing this disease. He explains how eating the right foods, exercising, and sustaining an ideal weight can dramatically reduce the likelihood of developing dementia in the first place, and how these habits can even slow the progression of the disease in someone who has already received a diagnosis.

If you or your loved ones are concerned about Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, let this book be your guide into a healthy future.

How Democracies Die ~ Review

How Democracies Die 
by Steven Levitsky 
   and Daniel Ziblatt

This book explores the state of our democracy in today's current political unrest. Our democracy is teetering on the edge but this wasn't a sudden situation but rather one that has been building over the last couple decades. But how did we get to this point? And can we pull back from the edge before it is too late?

How Democracies Die looks at other countries who have found themselves in a similar state. Efforts to restore democratic leadership only works if the rules of law are followed. Attempts to wrest government controls by other means paint those behind it as anti-democratic rather than defenders of democracy. Lines of communication must be opened between the partisan camps to reverse our further descent into the political circus that is becoming the norm. Is any one side more to blame than the other? Or is it a collaborative effort of those who are more focused on self rather than the whole?  

This book is an interesting and thoughtful work. Those who have a love of political science and want to delve into the current situations both here and abroad will want to have this book in their personal library. Those who are homeschooling will want this book when studying government in high school. This book doesn't descend into rumor and innuendo but rather looks at facts and historical records. 

I was provided a copy of this book by Blogging for Books for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:
Donald Trump’s presidency has raised a question that many of us never thought we’d be asking: Is our democracy in danger? Harvard professors Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt have spent more than twenty years studying the breakdown of democracies in Europe and Latin America, and they believe the answer is yes. Democracy no longer ends with a bang—in a revolution or military coup—but with a whimper: the slow, steady weakening of critical institutions, such as the judiciary and the press, and the gradual erosion of long-standing political norms. The good news is that there are several exit ramps on the road to authoritarianism. The bad news is that, by electing Trump, we have already passed the first one.

Drawing on decades of research and a wide range of historical and global examples, from 1930s Europe to contemporary Hungary, Turkey, and Venezuela, to the American South during Jim Crow, Levitsky and Ziblatt show how democracies die—and how ours can be saved.

I Will Not Fear ~ Review

I Will Not Fear 

My Story of a Lifetime of Building Faith Under Fire
by Melba Pattillo Beals

Sometimes it is hard to realize just how short a time ago we had such a segregated country. When one doesn't live through an event it feels farther away than it truly is. But the hatred and tyranny that Melba had to face just to have a chance at equality is truly unimaginable to me. I went to a school that had a well-balanced mix of students of every color and color had no bearing on my choice of friends. But sixty years ago this was not an expectation one had in the segregated South. 

Melba's fight for equality and fair treatment though began before her birth as her Grandmother India fought through persistence to get her delivery to be allowed within the walls of a white hospital. But her fight didn't end with her graduation from high school but rather continued on to her higher educational endeavors and her fight for acceptance into the world of journalism as both a woman and a person of color.

There are moments of heartbreak and moments of joy and triumph that will touch the heart of the reader. And the sustaining force in Melba'a life was the faith that her grandmother shared with her. A faith that allowed her to go forth each day into what could be her last. A faith that sustained her as she raised her children and struggled to keep them safe in a world that was a dangerous as the one she negotiated as a teenager.

I highly recommend this book for those who want to see faith in action in the face of a fallen and hate-filled world. This is not light reading and each chapter should be taken in slowly and thoughtfully so as to have the greatest impact on the reader's own life. This would make an excellent book club choice and be a good addition to the shelf of any library - public, school or personal.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Revell with no expectations of a positive review ~ all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

In 1957, Melba Beals was one of the nine 

African American students chosen to integrate 

Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas.

But her story of overcoming didn't start--or end--there.

While her white schoolmates were planning their senior prom, Melba was facing the business end of a double-barreled shotgun, being threatened with lynching by rope-carrying tormentors, and learning how to outrun white supremacists who were ready to kill her rather than sit beside her in a classroom. Only her faith in God sustained her during her darkest days and helped her become a civil rights warrior, an NBC television news reporter, a magazine writer, a professor, a wife, and a mother.

In I Will Not Fear, Beals takes you on an unforgettable journey through terror, oppression, and persecution, highlighting the kind of faith we all need to survive in a world full of heartbreak and anger. She shows how the deep faith we develop during our most difficult moments is the kind of faith that can change our families, our communities, and even the world.

Encouraging and inspiring, her story offers hope that faith is the solution to the pervasive hopelessness of our current culture.

The Most Important Women of the Bible ~ Review

The Most Important Women of the Bible
Remarkable Stories of God's Love and Redemption
By Aaron Sharp and Elaina Sharp

The Most Important Women of the Bible covers the lives and key moments of 31 different woman who can be found in the Bible. These women are found in both the Old and New Testaments. Some have entire books carrying their names such as Ruth and Esther. Others are known only by their location of residence or their societal status. Some were Jewish while others were Gentile. But they all had one thing in common God felt that they were important to His story.

Overall this is an interesting book. I like how each chapter opens with a quoted statement about each featured woman and then the Scripture reference that they are found in. A short biography follows with a how they are important in the plan of humanities redemption.  

If you are someone who likes to read a devotional a day this book would be perfect for a month-long study. Another possibility is for this book is a group Bible study that meets once a week or month where several of the women would be discussed at one time. I highly recommend this book for, however, you plan to read through it. This would also make a nice gift for anyone who enjoys reading and studying the Bible.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Bethany House with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

About the Book:

Powerful Stories That Reveal God's Love and Mercy

The Bible is the story of God's relationship with people--Jews and Gentiles, saints and sinners. From well-known characters like Eve and Esther to those less known like Jochebed and Zipporah, women play a vital role in the biblical drama. Authors Aaron and Elaina Sharp highlight three dozen of the most important women in Scripture, each handpicked by God to play a crucial part in His plan to redeem humanity.

Discover how each woman fits into the overall narrative of God's good news, and let it remind you that their story is also the story of His powerful love for you.

Read the short, lively chapters day by day as a devotional, or use them as a Bible study on your own or with a group.

About the Authors:

Aaron and Elaina Sharp are both Master of Theology graduates of Dallas Theological Seminary. Aaron works for Insight for Living Ministries, and Elaina owns and operates a small business.

Aaron is the author of Everything the Bible Says About Parenting and Children and What Does God Say About That? Elaina writes and develops curriculum for ministries such as Cru. Aaron and Elaina Sharp live in Little Elm, Texas, with their three children.

The Lost Sermons of C.H. Spurgeon ~ Review

The Lost Sermons of C.H. Spurgeon
His Earliest Outlines and Sermons 
Between 1851 and 1854  Volume 2
Edited with introduction and notes by Christian T. George

This book is heavy and I don't mean just the subject matter - this book weighs just over 4 pounds. But when one considers the treasure found between these covers it is hard to believe it weighs so little.

The introduction that opens this book allows the reader to understand the world in which these sermons were written. Surgeon's strong stance against slavery understandably made him an unpopular person in the American South. Don't skip this as it is really interesting and there are some really interesting charts that offer a breakdown of the sermons that are in this volume.

Now you are probably wondering about the sermons. Well, in my opinion, this is what makes this book so great. The original notebook which Charles Spurgeon wrote out his outline and notes is scanned and shown in its current condition. The facing page is the same content typed out so that the reader can easily read what Spurgeon put to paper. There are footnotes following each sermon to explain Surgeon's notes or where further references could be found in other sermons.

This is a great book for one who wants to delve into a study of Spurgeon, his sermons, and his thoughts. And when you first pick up this book ignore all the notes and just read. I went back and forth while reading and if you just read the sermons the first time through it is amazing just who powerful some of these messages are. Read the footnotes and such on a second time through. The book is over 565 pages in length. And don't you just love the artwork of the dust jacket? Well, it is inspired by the actual cover of the notebook that Spurgeon used for these sermons. Rather appropriate don't you agree? And the picture of the front and back cover can be found in this book.

This book is for those who want to read all of Spurgeon's work, the student of Christian history, and pastor who has a library that he uses on a regular basis. This would also make for an interesting Bible study resource. There are two indexes in the back of the book one for Scripture references and the other for subjects. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher BH Academic with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:
In 1857, Charles Spurgeon—the most popular preacher in the Victorian world—promised his readers that he would publish his earliest sermons. For almost 160 years, these sermons have been lost to history. In January 2017, B&H Academic will begin releasing a multi-volume set that includes full-color facsimiles, transcriptions, contextual and biographical introductions, and editorial annotations. Written for scholars, pastors, and students alike, The Lost Sermons of C.H. Spurgeon will add approximately 10 percent more material to Spurgeon’s body of literature and will constitute the first critical edition of any of Spurgeon’s works.

The Crooked Path ~ Review

The Crooked Path
By Irma Joubert

First off I have to say Irma Joubert has a way of writing that touches the soul of the reader. Her writing is alive with the nuances of life - its joys and it pains.

Once again we are taken into a world that is at war and how this affects and shapes the lives of those who are caught up in its destructive forces. In Italy the Romanelli family is about to have all that they have known changed when Hitler's Germany makes its presence known. Military service is a requirement and two of the Romanelli brothers are pressed into service. But the eldest brother Marco hides in the mountains with the family of the woman to whom he is engaged. The years take a toll on the Romanellis and Marco's years of deprivation at the hands of Germany have cost him much. When the dry warmth of South Africa is offered as an option to the restore his precarious health Marco goes joining his younger brother Antonio in this foreign land.

Lettie Louw has always felt that she is a lesser person than her friends. She's never been quite good enough and she's known that love was never meant for her. These feelings pushed her to excel in in her studies and become a doctor. Her skills have her assistance being sought in the care of Marco Romanelli. Marco's health slowly improves under Lettie's direction. But his health will never be fully restored and it is with this understanding that Marco and Lettie open their hearts to the possibility of just what the future holds. The path that has lead them to this point was crooked and the path before them seems equal to what lay behind them.

Life is journey with no guarantees and The Crooked Path fully explores this as life moves on even as heartbreak and joy make their marks on those around them. This is also a story about the value of friends and family in being there for us at the momentous and the ordinary.

This is truly a beautiful and moving story one that will bring tears as the inhumanity of war makes itself known and bring a soft smile at the power of love to heal wounds (and create new ones). Life comes in stages and presents different options that at a different time we may or may not respond in the same manner. This book brought to mind Ecclesiastes 3:1, 6, and 8:
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: ...  A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;... A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace." KJV

I was provided a complimentary review copy of this book by the publisher through BookLook Bloggers with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

From the bestselling author of The Girl From the Train, comes another compelling coming of age story of delayed love, loss, and reconciliation in WWII-era South Africa.

Lettie has always felt different from and overshadowed by the women around her– this friend is richer, that friend is more beautiful, those friends are closer. Still, she doesn’t let this hold her back. She works hard to apply her mind, trying to compensate for her perceived lack of beauty with diligent academic work and a successful career as a doctor. She learns to treasure her friendships, but she still wonders if any man will ever return her interest.

Marco’s experience in the second world war have robbed him of love and health. When winters in his native Italy prove dangerous to his health even after the war has ended, he moves to South Africa to be with his brother, husband to one of Lettie’s best friends. Marco is Lettie’s first patient, and their relationship grows as she aids him on the road back to restored health.

In the company of beloved characters from The Child of the River, Marco and Lettie find a happiness that neither of them thought possible. With that joy comes pain and loss, but Lettie learns that life—while perhaps a crooked path—is always a journey worth taking.

365 Classic Bedtime Bible Stories ~ Review

365 Classic Bedtime
    Bible Stories
Inspired by Jesse Lyman Hurlbut's Story of the Bible
Illustrations by Alessia Girasole

Looking for a new Bible bedtime devotional for the upcoming year? One that you can share with your little reader? Well, this one might be what you are looking for. The stories start with Creation and continue through Revelation. Each page is one day and is a summarization of a Bible passage. The Bible passage from which each story is taken is referenced before the story is related.

The illustrations are throughout and should capture children's attention. My only complaint with the illustrations is the lack of skin pigmentations. This area of the world was a major trade route so there should have been more racial diversity.

There is an index at the back broken down into Old Testament and New Testament so that one can search for a person, place, or thing based on the Testament.

The book is hardcover with what appears to be a stitched binding. There is a red ribbon place marker attached to the spine so that one's place can be easily marked through the year. This book is aimed more towards younger children, I'm thinking 3 - 8 years of age. This is a time to share with your children so be sure to read the Bible references with your children to add more depth to the story.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:
Your children or grandchildren will delight in this fully-illustrated storybook that brings 365 read-aloud classic Bible stories to life for impressionable young hearts.

Beginning with the creation story, "God Creates the Earth," and ending with "In Eternity with God,” your children will develop faith in an almighty God who is the same yesterday, today, and forever, while journeying alongside Bible characters like Samuel, Jonah, Esther, David, John the Baptist, Mary, Joseph, and many more.

Purple Turtle Graded Readers Level 2 ~ Review with Giveaway and Trailer

Purple Turtle Graded Readers
Level 2
By Vanessa Black


Looking to help your child with their early literacy skills? Well, this delightful boxed book set is the perfect option. The box measures 14-3/4" wide x 9-1/2" tall x 1-3/8" deep.

The individual books measure 7" x 4-3/4" and in the box, the books are 3 across and 4 deep. The books are hardcover with a stitched binding. The books are just under 30 pages each. Each book has a story and is followed by several pages of activities that correspond to the story.

The books in the Level 2 collection include the following titles.

Too Many Clothes when Zing's closet won't close because of too many clothes Purple helps him out by sorting out what is used and what is not. Four fun pages of clothes activities follow.

Purple Goes on Holiday which is a week's worth of fun activity with Mama, Papa, and Purple trying out new things. Six fun-filled activity pages follow this adventuresome week!

Purple Visits the Zoo has Purple visiting the zoo with Mama where they discover a baby monkey is missing. They search for the baby monkey as they explore the zoo. Fun animal activities follow this story.

Biggy Breaks an Arm when Biggy breaks his arm while playing he is sad to learn that he won't be able to swim while he has a cast on his arm. Purple and the gang decide to cheer him up by helping discover that he can have fun even with a broken arm. Six fun activity pages that Biggy could enjoy follow the story.

At the Aquarium has the friends visiting the local aquarium and seeing new fish and sea creatures. There are fun counting and number activities.

The Art Banner Purple and Roxy create a banner for the new art center. But it takes a lot of work to get it just right.  Two fun pages of art-themed activities follow this story

Roxy Plays by the Rules When Roxy's cheating gets too much the gang decides to teach him a lesson about playing by the rules. Four pages of activities follow this story.

Ride to the City Purple and Roxy decide the go to a car show and getting to and from the city is an adventure all its own. Four fun activities add to this stories delights.

Who am I? Purple and the gang are stuck indoors because of the weather. When they come up with a new game they have to guess what they each are pretending to be. This book has six pages of various activities. Want to give this game a try yourself?

Roxy Gets Angry Roxy is making a gift for Purple but when Biggy accidentally breaks it Roxy gets angry. This book explores feelings and a couple activities that deal with feelings.

Wish Upon a Star finds Purple and Zing stargazing when they wish upon a shooting star. Purple's wish comes true and they find themselves on a rocket in space. Four fun space-themed activity pages follow this story.

Purple Goes to School Purple's first day of school has arrived and Purple isn't ready to go. But Papa and Mama were right - school is fun. Three school themed activity pages finish this book.

These stories and fun for young readers. Please be aware that there are a few words that use British English spellings instead of American English. (Examples include tyre instead of tire and colour instead of color). There are colorful images on each page that help with story comprehension. These would be a lovely gift for children or grandchildren who are in the beginning stages of reading - think Kindergarten or First Grade depending on the individual child.

I was provided a complimentary review copy of this boxed set with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Boxed Book Set Details:

Book Title: Purple Turtle Graded Readers Level 2 (12 Titles)
Category: Children's Fiction,
Genre: Educational
Publisher: Aadarsh Pvt. Ltd.
Release date: April 1, 2017
Tour dates: Oct 30 to Nov 24, 2017
Content Rating: G (informative content intended for and available to children and their parents/educators to enhance and support learning. Suitable for: Family audiences with younger children.)

Boxed Book Set Description:

Welcome to a world of fun-filled learning with Purple Turtle. Purple Turtle Graded Readers by A1 Edutainment is an amazing new reading program that is ideal for emerging readers. The second level includes a set of 12 books with 12 interesting stories and several engaging activities that is likely to make learning an enjoyable experience. The book has a word count of 150-250 and is based on the ATOS and Lexile reading level system. This level is for readers who have just learned to read.

To read more reviews, please visit Purple Turtle's page on iRead Book Tours.

Buy the Boxed Set: 

Amazon

Watch one of the book trailers:

Meet the Publisher:

Purple Turtle is India’s 1st International brand with its educational content in several languages sold in more than 30 countries including Russia, China, US and UK. The character of Purple Turtle has delighted children across the globe through beautifully created Purple Turtle books, rhymes, and videos available on YouTube.

Purple Turtle was created with the idea to spread education through a wide range of innovative books for children. To give them the experience of convenient online learning, Purple Turtle also brings both learning and entertainment on a common platform to give a wholesome learning experience to young minds.

Connect with the publisher: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook

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The Teen's Guide to Social Media and Mobile Devices ~ Review

The Teen's Guide to Social Media
    and Mobile Devices
By Jonathan McKee

Navigating the ever-changing digital world of social media is a challenge for most people. And for teens, there is the added pressure of navigating the ever-changing world of life with school, friends, peer-pressure, and parents all having expectations.

But how do we make sure that what we post won't have a negative impact on the rest of our lives? We need to post, share, and friend in an intelligent and thoughtful manner. But making smart decisions can be hard when we don't think things through completely.  And once we hit the button it is impossible to take back what we've put out for our audience to share.

This book offers rules (or guidelines) for you to follow to keep you safe and out of trouble both today and in the future. One can never know who will see what we've put out to share. Yes, it could be a close friend or family member or it could someone with intentions that could do you harm. There are no absolutes when online so your best course is to be smart in this insecure world.

Though written to teens anyone who uses the internet could make use of this book. And anyone who has dealings with kids should definitely read through this book and share it with the young people in their life. There are 21 tips for safe and wise posting and real-life situations where not following these guidelines had dire consequences, sometimes for life! The tips are presented with Biblical reasons why followed by questions to make you think.

This book should be a must for any home with young people in it and it should be included in a library's young adult and/or parent resources collection. The book isn't preachy in its message yet it is firmly based on Godly principles.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

Ever regret something you’ve posted?
Honestly? How smart are you being when it comes to streaming, messaging, gaming, commenting. . .?
 
 The Teen’s Guide to Social Media & Mobile Devices will help you navigate the digital world with 21 refreshingly honest and humorous tips that will not only inform, but that also just might change the way you think about your social media interaction.

     21 real-life tips including. . .

• Know the app before you snap.
• Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want Grandma, your boss, and Jesus seeing! (Jesus is on Insta, you know!)
• Peek at your privacy settings. . .so you know who’s peeking at you.
• Take more “selflessies.”
• Press pause before you post. 

. . .and many more will provide just the information you need to post wisely in an insecure world.

Historical and Theological Foundations of Law ~ Review

Historical and Theological
Foundations of Law 
By John Eidsmoe

If you are looking for something to read that has some depth and educational values I highly recommend this book. Well, books is a more accurate description as this is a 3 volume set.  Volume 1 covers Ancient Wisdom, Volume 2 Classical and Medieval, and Volume 3 Reformation and Colonial.

This set covers law in such a way that the reader is taken on a journey of world history with law being the thread that is followed from the earliest recorded moments of humanity up to the modern legal structures upon which America was founded (yes, I realize that to some the 18th Century is not considered modern) The rise and fall of nations is contrasted with what we know of their legal system and their commonly held beliefs in God or in gods.

Homeschoolers, if you are looking for a suggestion in regards to a textbook or a supplement to an existing course on world history and government I personally believe this would be an excellent choice. This would be a great addition to any home, school or church library. Believe me when I say this is one set you'll want to re-read and take notes.

I was provided a copy for review purposes by the publisher through TBCN with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.



ABOUT THE BOOKS (1417 pages):

The Law! What is it, and where does it get its authority? Because someone with a crown and scepter has commanded it? Because a council has adopted it? Because a judge has upheld it? Or is law "law" because a Higher Authority has ordained it so? The Laws of Nature? And of Nature's God? Do "echoes of Eden" remain, faintly reminding us of an Original Plan? What is the Common Law? When did it begin? Is it relevant or binding today? And what of the Laws of the ancient Hebrews-an irrelevant footnote, or the cornerstone of all true Law?

With unparalleled scope and minute detail, Historical &Theological Foundations of Law studies the legal systems of ancient societies all across the earth, explores their common threads and differences, and traces their development through history, and notes common trends that should cause hope or alarm today. Embark with us on a journey to discover the earliest origins of Law.
Volume I - Ancient Wisdom

Volume II - Classical and Medieval

Volume III - Reformation and Colonial


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
John Eidsmoe brings to this study the combined disciplines of the soldier, jurist, theologian, and historian. A retired Lt. Colonel in the Air Force and a Colonel in the Alabama State Defense Force, Eidsmoe is an Adjunct Professor for the Oak Brook College of Law & Government Policy, for the Handong International Law School in South Korea, and for the Institute of Lutheran Theology.

NIV Kids Visual Study Bible ~ Review

NIV Kids' Visual Study Bible
Published by Zondervan

Explore the Story of the Bible

People, Places, and History

One can never be too young to start studying the Bible and this new Visual Study edition is for kids helping them to explore and understand God's Word. The first thing to make note of this Bible is the New International Version (NIV). Second, even though it is a kids Bible it is one that anyone can use - it is complete and not abridged, nor is it a book of Bible stories.

The illustrations are throughout the Bible but not on every single page. Yes, there are over 700 images but the Bible is 1936 pages long. So the illustrations are merely a tool to enhance the study of specific passages.

Each page is lined on the outer edge by a golden yellow column in which key passages are explained for aid in understanding. At the beginning of a new chapter, this column helps point out key features - time, people, place, and a quick chapter synopsis. There are a few maps throughout the Bible along with 12 pages at the back of the Bible.

The infographics I found well placed in helping the readers to visualize more fully certain aspects - such as the differences in Job's life before and after his testing, a clock of the hours of Good Friday, and the key words found in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd John.

This Bible is hardcover and the pages while delicate won't tear with normal use and as such should be an appropriate gift for a child of 7 or 8 years of age. This is a Bible that can be taken to church and Sunday school and enjoyed for daily home use. The first page is a presentation page that can be personalized by the giver. There is a royal blue ribbon to use as a marker which goes well with the cover illustration. This would make a perfect gift for either a boy or a girl.

I was provided a review copy of this Bible by the publisher through Handlebar with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.  


About the Book:

The NIV Kids' Visual Study Bible brings the Bible alive for children.The NIV Kids' Visual Study Bible, for ages 8-12, brings the Bible to life in four-color illustrated splendor. This study Bible includes a spectacular full-color interior featuring over 700 illustrations, photos, infographics, and maps on every page that visually represent key Bible information. Each page also features important facts located near the relevant verse. Intriguing facts; colorful, engaging maps; photographs; and illustrations make this a Bible they'll want to explore.

Features:
* Over 700 four-color photographs, illustrations, infographics, and maps throughout
* Full-color design
* Book introductions, including important facts and an image to orient the reader
* One-column format with side bar study notes for ease of reading
* The complete text of the New International Version (NIV) translation of the Bible
* Beautiful cover featuring glossy images

Mama Says, Money Doesn't Grow on Trees ~ Spotlight

Dr. Iris Mack's financial literacy book 

“Mama Says Money Doesn't Grow on Trees!'' 

is focused on teaching students that math can be fun 

and key to understanding money and interest.

Book Details:

Book Title: Mama says, ''Money Doesn't Grow on Trees!''

Author: Iris Marie Mack, PhD, EMBA

​Category: Middle-Grade Non-fiction, 48 pages

Genre: Financial and Math Literacy

Publisher: CreateSpace

Release date: January 14, 2011

Content Rating: G

Tour dates: April 17 - 28, 2017





Book Description:

Globe Newswire reports that Dr. Iris Mack's mathematics edutainment book is "turning heads across the country in a response similar to the widely promoted 'Hooked on Phonics,' that improved children's reading skills." Her unique approach to math became one of Xlibris/Random House Publisher's top children's picture book royalty earners.

If there is one word that sums up our recent economic woes, it is interest. There’s interest on credit card balances, student loans, car loans, home mortgages, corporate borrowings and most prominently, on state and national debt. But there is surprisingly little interest in this interest. We all pay it. But not many of us really understand how it works. Dr. Iris Mack has filled the gap – and for young consumers.

Her financial literacy book Mama Says, "Money Doesn't Grow on Trees!'' is focused on teaching students that math can be fun and key to understanding money and interest. In today’s world of subprime mortgage crises, bankruptcies, massive credit card debt and predatory lending, Dr. Mack's book is more relevant than ever. In Mama Says, "Money Doesn't Grow on Trees!" a group of smart, animated characters explain how money and interest work, as young consumers are introduced to mathematics and financial literacy. Professor Ø, Ms. Madonna Sorenson and Dr. Mackamatix lead students Al G Bro, Frakshun, Nada, Queen% and Material Girl Ma$ through a fun-filled math class all about how money and interest work in their everyday lives.

Learn more: MathQED TV

Praise for this book:
“I think the work you do showing how math can be beautiful and practical is great, keep it up!” says Javier Tordable, Senior Software Engineer at the Google Corporation.

“Making math fun and relevant is a real public service. Old fashioned, boring textbooks aren't the thing that will capture the imagination and engage our children in the fun and yes, joy, in math and problem solving. Iris Mack has created a group of characters and scenarios that will draw young people into the fold of knowledge.” says Karen Pritzker– Producer of The My Hero Project and Editor of The Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity website.

Buy the Book: Amazon 

Meet the Author:

​Iris Marie Mack, PhD, EMBA, earned a doctorate in Applied Mathematics from Harvard University. She was also awarded a Sloan Fellowship Executive MBA from the London Business School. Dr. Mack worked at various energy and financial institutions, acted as a faculty member at MIT, and worked at NASA and AT&T Bell Labs – where she obtained a patent for research on optical fibers.

Dr. Mack currently lectures on Energy Trading and Risk Management for the Fitch Learning Certificate in Quantitative Finance Program on Wall Street and at Tulane University. Because of Dr. Mack's extensive knowledge of the derivatives, energy trading, and investment banking world, she has been invited to write opinion columns for the UK edition of the International Business Times.

Dr. Mack has also been named one of Glamour Magazine’s Top 10 Working Women, and she is no novice writer. This publishing will be her third financially-focused and published book – including her energy trading book published with Wiley Finance and a financial literacy book for teens and adults. With this breadth of experience and sheer intellectual prowess, Dr. Mack is more than able to help readers reach the financial stability they deserve.

In addition, Dr. Mack founded The Global Energy Post and MathQED - a homework help site for K-12 and college students. Previously known as Phat Math, this service has even been named one of the Top 50 Social Sites for Educators and Academics, 25 Savvy Social Media Sites for Grad Students and 25 Useful Networking Sites for Grad Students. Such accolades illustrate Dr. Mack’s ability to clearly inform the masses.

Connect with the Author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook

BOOK SPOTLIGHT TOUR SCHEDULE:

April 17 - Library of Clean Reads - book spotlight / giveaway
April 17 - Jaquo Lifestyle Magazine - book spotlight
April 18 - 100 Pages A Day - book spotlight / giveaway
April 18 - Divas With A Purpose - book spotlight
April 19 - Books, Dreams, Life - book spotlight / giveaway
April 19 - The Cheshire Cat's Looking Glass - book spotlight / giveaway
April 20 - A Mama's Corner of the World - book spotlight / giveaway
April 20 - One Frugal Girl - book spotlight / giveaway
April 21 - #redhead.with.book - book spotlight / giveaway
April 21 - Books for Books - book spotlight
April 24 - Cheryl's Book Nook - book spotlight / giveaway
April 24 - The All Night Library - book spotlight
April 25 - Blooming with Books - book spotlight / giveaway
April 25 - 411 on Books, Authors and Publishing News - book spotlight / giveaway
April 26 - Rockin' Book Reviews - book spotlight / giveaway
April 27 - Lukten av Trykksverte - book spotlight / giveaway
April 28 - My Life. One Story at a Time. - book spotlight / giveaway

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