Landon Snow and the Auctor's Riddle - Book One

The teaser on the back cover of Landon Snow and the Auctor’s Riddle says, “Open the book and take a look. But do be careful not to lean in too closely…”

I opened, and along with Landon, fell through the Book of Meanings into a world of adventure and fantasy – a world that ignites the imagination. With riddles scattered throughout, the surprises abound and the mystery deepens at every turn.

I turned the last page with reluctance, for I knew I would miss the well-developed characters and Landon Snow – a boy who looks for the meaning in everything. Did he find meaning? Is life mere chance or circumstance? Open the book and take a look.

The series may be marketed as children’s books, but the child in all of us will delight in the adventures of Landon Snow and the Auctor’s Riddle written by R.K. Mortenson. I look forward to the second and third in this trilogy.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 223 pages
Publisher: Barbour Publishing (October, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN: 1593108818

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Grace for the Race by Dena Dyer

As a devotional writer and mom, I read a lot of books marketed towards those two groups. This book combined the two in a delightful way. Grace for the Race compiles meditations for busy moms written by Dena Dyer. The writing is both humorous and heartwarming. Ms. Dyer makes herself vulnerable and displays a humility I find endearing.

My favorite chapter tells “What Real Love Looks Like.” I’d recommend this book for busy moms, as each chapter stands on its own, so the book can be read on the run. And how nice to find a fellow chocoholic mom writer!

Product Details:
Paperback: 189 pages
Publisher: Barbour Publishing (November, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN: 1593103379

NOTE: This book was given to me by Active Christian Media for the purpose of receiving reviews.

In The Beginning...There Were No Diapers: Laughing and Learning In The First Years Of Fatherhood (Paperback)

Tim Bete has penned, not just a humorous, but a laugh out loud firsthand account of the foibles and fun of fatherhood. Each chapter of In The Beginning...There Were No Diapers: Laughing and Learning In The First Years Of Fatherhood (2005, Sorin Books) recounts milestones in childhood.

Without being preachy, Mr. Bete's faith is evident when revealing miracles that occur every day in the life of a parent. Getting the instructions for changing the diaper on a 'human dribble glass' in an airplane restroom makes the book worth buying!

I'd highly recommend this book for both moms and dads, or anyone who want to relive the joyful journey through parenthood.

Product Details:
Paperback: 189 pages
Publisher: Sorin Books (April, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN: 1893732878

Search For Peace by Wanda Gutierrez

I propped this book up on the bookrack on my new treadmill. I opened it up being careful not to break the spine. I love the way a new book feels. I love the way I feel - excited about the treasure hidden between the covers.

And what a treasure it was. Wanda Gutierrez included an entire book's worth of information in the first chapter. My thirty-minute workout passed by before I knew it.

I savored every spiritual morsel in this book. The succeeding chapters held as much nourishment as the first. After reading this book, you will be a more mature Christian - one who knows the Source of Peace, and your search will be over.

Product Details:
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Destiny Image Publishers (December, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN: 0768429676

Ordinary Mom, Extraordinary God: Encouragement To Refresh Your Soul

Mary DeMuth's Ordinary Mom, Extraordinary God blessed and challenged me. You'll find inspirational and encouraging tidbits whether a new or seasoned mother. As you read her book, you will, as Mary hoped, "hear the whisper of Your Savior and delight in His strength."

I recommend this book for immediate purchase. You won't be disappointed.

Product Details:
Paperback: 196 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (February 28, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN: 0736915001

My Shadow is Missing by Kristen Halter & Kevin Scott Collier

My Shadow Is Missing by Kristen Halter and Kevin Scott Collier tells the story of 10-year old Keegan, a boy so depressed by being bullied at school, he wants to hide out in his room. But that night a curious visitor appears beckoning Keegan to follow. On his mysterious excursion, he learns he should turn to God because He is always there - just like his shadow.

Realistic dialogue and lots of action spur the story on at a good pace, and is sure to keep children reading to see how Keegan fares.

Product Details:
Printed: 24 pages, 6.0 x 9.0 in. (Trade Paperback), saddle-stitch-bound, black and white interior Download: PDF (197 kb)
Publisher: Tangerine Sky Productions
License: Standard Copyright License
Copyright Year: © 2005 by Tangerine Sky Productions
Language: English

Hadi's Journey by Jennifer Reed

Hadi's Journey is a poignant, but uplifting tale. I enjoyed it. Wow, what a story. The fact that it is based on actual events makes it even more memorable. Jennifer Reed did an excellent job of making the reader root for Hadi.

I felt like when I finished, I needed to go get a cup of cold, refreshing water. Read about Hadi's journey to see what I mean.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 110 pages
Publisher: iUniverse (October 30, 2003)
Language: English
ISBN: 0595293751