Kristin and the Santa Secret by Christopher Fenoglio (Illustrated by Natasha Tibbott)

Kristin and the Santa Secret is slightly old-fashioned, but in a good way. The style makes this poetic tale by Christopher Fenoglio timeless. The illustrations by Natasha Tibbott have an old world style that perfectly fits the heartwarming story of how Kristin comes to see Santa's role in a whole new light and find the true meaning of Christmas.

To read more about the book and hear an interview with the author, visit http://stopherpublishing.blogspot.com/.

Andrea Carter and the Trouble with Treasure by Susan K. Marlow

When I began reading Trouble with Treasure, it felt like I had gone back in time to the age of 11 or 12 and living an adventure in the Old West. Susan K. Marlow writes about the escapades of Andrea Carter (Andi) and how trust and teamwork work together. Young readers will absorb the customs of the 1880's, new terms, and laugh at Andi's antics, all the while learning the importance of strong family ties and the value of friendship. Andi's Christian faith remains strong in the face of adversity, but author Susan Marlow never preaches at her readers. Fun book! I recommend it along with the other books in the series.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Kregel Publications (January 18, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0825433525
ISBN-13: 978-0825433528

Visit Susan K. Marlow's website: Circle C Adventures



ADDED BONUS: A free study guide with activities like discussion questions, maps, crafts, crossword puzzle, and even a recipe for Rattlesnake Chili! Click HERE.

Katydidn't by Colleen L. Reece, Illustrations by K.C.Snider

Katy wants all her siblings to do what she wants to do, not the other way around. In this sweet story, author Colleen L. Reece helps Katy see that selfishness brings unhappiness, but treating people the way Jesus would results in a fulfilling day playing with her brothers and sisters all the while learning to appreciate that God makes every person unique. Lovely illustrations by K.C. Snider and the engaging story in Katydidn't (Guardian Angel Publishing) will help young readers learn in a subtle way to consider the desires and feelings of others.

Katydidn't
Wings of Faith
Author: Colleen L. Reece
Artist: K.C. Snider http://www.kcsniderart.com/
PRINT: 978-1-61633-021-7; 161633021X
EBOOK: 978-1-61633-022-4; 1616330228
 
To order, click HERE.

Crash! by Mayra Calvani, Illustrated by Anna Pylypchuk

In Crash!, Mayra Calvani captures the excitement of getting a first puppy, and then the difficult task of finding the perfect name for the new pet. Woven throughout the story are hints for children on how to care for and train a pet. And of course – in the end, the little boy discovers the perfect moniker for his furry friend. Sweet illustrations by teen artist, Anna Pylypchuk from the Ukraine, complement the story.

Available in English or Spanish, in print or as an ebook. Visit Guardian Angel Publishing for order information.

Ms. Calvani donates 50% of the royalties from CRASH! to Almost Heaven Golden Retriever Rescue and Sanctuary.

Click HERE to visit Mayra's blog for Crash! and find reviews, information about Golden Retrievers, and activities for children. A charming book for your child that benefits a good cause. A win-win!

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 2-6
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc (March 25, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1933090545
ISBN-13: 978-1933090542

The I Believe Bunny by Tish Rabe, Illustrated by Frank Endersby

The I Believe Bunny is a delightful children's picture book based on the Bible verse Philippians 4:13 (NIV): I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

The main character, Bunny, must come to the aid of a mouse in trouble. Because he feels small and inadequate, he calls on God to help him. He discovers that God answers his prayer in an unexpected way.

It's a bit odd that the characters don't have names and I found the rhymes a bit 'off' in a couple of places, but that didn't detract significantly from the story. Children are sure to learn that, no matter how big or small they are, they can call on God and He hears them when they pray. In the story, the answer comes quickly. This book would be a great way to talk about all the ways God answers prayer and about God's timing, too.

The pastel illustrations by Frank Endersby reminded me of Beatrix Potter – very sweet and endearing. These combined with a story on faith makes this book an ideal bedtime story to read before nighttime prayers.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (July 14, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1400314763
ISBN-13: 978-1400314768

Zooprise Party/Fiesta Zoorpresa by Rebekha Delgado (Author), Joy Delgado (Illustrator)

Every creature likes to celebrate his birthday - even an Okapi named Mori. Zooprise Party/Fiesta Zoorpresa is a bilingual (English/Spanish) book with a simple message - friends can be of any shape or size. At the end of the story are facts about the unusual animals.

Most children love birthdays and will identify with the excitement over celebrating a birthday, and sympathize with Mori when he thinks his birthday has been forgotten. The illustrations perfectly complement the story.

The Zooprise Party Activity Book ($4.95, ISBN 978-0975545423) contains 24 pages with fun activities like coloring pages, mazes, and puzzles.

With the cute story, the animal facts, Activity Book, and Teachers Guide (separate purchase), the Delgados have compiled an excellent array of activities to keep children entertained and learning at the same time.

For up-to-date news about the book, visit Joy's blog: Zooprise Party

To download coloring pages, puzzles, and crafts, visit Laughing Zebra.

Direct order information:

Laughing Zebra – Books for Children Bookstore

http://www.laughing-zebra-children-books.com/book-store.html

Offers free shipping and autographed copies

Product Details:
Paperback: 36 pages
Publisher: J.O.Y. Publishing; first edition (October 24, 2008)
Language: English, Spanish
ISBN-10: 0975545418
ISBN-13: 978-0975545416

Available through Amazon and Target.

I Love You More by Laura Duksta

When I began to read “I Love You More,” I recalled the old commercial for chewing gum that described it as ‘double good.’ With Laura Duksta’s book, you get something ‘double good.’ One side is told from a child’s point of view. Flipping the book over, the same concept is told from the point of view of the parent. Both sides are sweet and endearing as mother and son compare how much they love each other.

Having two books in one means you could alternate bedtime readings by asking which version the child wants. When finished, you could also make a game out of coming up with new ways to describe your love. I must say though, the author covers most any you could think up. The illustrations by Karen Keesler are simple but vibrant, and enhance the rhyming text nicely.

This book sold nearly 180,000 copies as a self-published book - an almost impossible feat in today’s mass and big box market, and gives you an idea of its appeal. If you’re looking for a book to help you communicate just how much you love your child, and to help your child better convey his feelings, this is a most recommended book.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 34 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Trade (October 17, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402211260
ISBN-13: 978-1402211263

Note: I received an advanced reading copy for review from Sourcebooks.
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The Fairy Chronicles by J.H. Sweet (Illustrated by Tara Larsen Chang)

The Fairy Chronicles is a set of books written by J.H. Sweet beautifully illustrated by Tara Larsen Chang. On the front of the first book, Marigold and the Feather of Hope, The Journey Begins, it says “…where some girls are also fairies.” The fairy teams consists of normal girls who find out that they are, in fact, not so normal. They can switch to being fairies, and do many good things, go on exciting adventures, and meet other fairies and magical characters in the fairy kingdom.

The fairies each have a different gift, and work as a team to help people and solve problems. Although I’m not fond of ‘magic,’ the underlying theme is one of good versus evil – an enduring and very real problem in all of our lives.

In addition to the adventure in each book, you’re treated to detailed descriptions of each fairy, with Fairy Fun and Facts with recipes and crafts.

I liked it that the author has a sense of humor. One of the older fairies in the second book, Dragonfly and the Web of Dreams, is addicted to caffeine – a trait with which I can identify! And children will identify with the characters in these books. Each one is very well-developed with unique traits, gifts, and mentors.

I believe that our creativity is a gift given by God, and this author and illustrator team is richly blessed. The Fairy Chronicles are imaginative and extremely creative. A fun read! Although recommended for ages 7 and up, I think children from 4 and up would enjoy having the books read to them. One piece of advice - buy a bag of lemon jellybeans, as all fairies like them, you know!

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 120 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Language: English

The Legend of Zoey by Candie Moonshower

Candie Moonshower has seamlessly meshed the experiences of two girls in two different eras into a delightful tale in The Legend of Zoey. Against the background of real events, she has written a fun and at times, poignant story and manages to teach the reader, too. Writing about time travel and using two points of view can be tricky, but Moonshower makes the transition between points of time and view with ease. I look for more great books from Candie Moonshower.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 224 pages
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers (July 11, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0385732805
ISBN-13: 978-0385732802

Across the Wide River by Stephanie Reed

Across the Wide River is a work of fiction, but based on a real family, the Rankin Family, living in a time of slavery and abolition. The story, with its rich descriptions, draws you into the struggle for freedom so much so that you feel the anquish and intense longing of those desiring freedom and those who work so valiantly to secure that goal.

Stephanie Reed introduces us to Lowry Rankin, nothing but a boy in the beginning of the book, who must face constant danger and moral dilemmas when confronted with the reality of the 'family business.' Will he become a preacher and abolitionist like his father? Or will his shyness overtake his desire to help the slaves and preach the Word of God?

This is a story of courage and compassion with even a pinch of romance, but most of all - a story that won't be forgotten. Join Lowry in his adventures, and journey Across the Wide River.

Product Details:
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Kregel Publications (November 25, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN: 0825435765