Books for Kids

I’m reviewing books for Zonderkidz this week.

I picked Faithful Friends: Favorite Stories of People in the Bible because of the delightful handmade dolls used in the illustrations. Marcy & Michael Kelleher created this beautiful book that tells the stories of forty-two heroes and heroines of the Bible. Each person has a page written by Michael with Bible references and an illustration created from fiber arts by Marcy. This would be a wonderful read for children ages eight through twelve. I enjoyed each well-told story.

I also chose God I Feel Scared by Michelle Nietert, LPC-S and Tama Fortner, and illustrated by Nomar Perez. This is part of the Bringing Big Emotions to a Bigger God series. I love how the authors explain fear and what it is to be scared. It’s the perfect book to share with little ones to help them understand their fears. The authors share practical advice on the things the child can do in way children can understand. There’s also a Dear Parent page at the end that shares calm-down skills. The colorful illustrations will delight young readers. This is a great book to have in your personal library to share with your children.

I received free copies with no expectations. Opinions are my own.

Children's Book Review: Little Love Letters from God

Book Description:
What child does not love to receive mail? What if that child could receive, open and read his or her own personal mail from God? The Little Love Letters from God board book will invite them to do just that! Accompanying each of the eight stories in this unique children’s Bible is a very special and encouraging letter tucked away in its own lift-the-flap envelope. With a padded cover for little hands, Little Love Letters from God introduces children to God’s Word with eight of the most popular Bible stories—including creation, Noah’s ark, the birth of Jesus and more. Following each story the child will find his or her own letter from God. Children will love the excitement of opening the letters and parents will love how each letter elaborates on the Bible story being told. A very special Bible verse, entitled God’s Wonderful Words To You will accompany each story and letter. Much more than a mere memory verse, each carefully chosen promise will be God’s very own personal words of love, encouragement, and hope.

My Review:
This beautiful book will be one to treasure. Glenys Nellist poems tell the Bible stories in a lovely way. Each of the little letters speak to the soul and will be valuable teaching tools for the person sharing this wonderful book. British artist, Sophie Allsopp's illustrations are outstanding. The techniques she uses add a whimsical and delightful element to the pages. I love this book, and I think you will, too.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.  

Two Childrens' Book Reviews: Joseph the Dreamer & Facing the Blazing Furnace, pictures by David Miles

Book Description:
Joseph may be his father’s favorite son, but his brothers feel differently and sell him into slavery in Egypt. In this Level 2 I Can Read written and illustrated in the tradition of the bestselling Adventure Bible, find out how God turns a bad situation into a big blessing. Perfect for beginning readers ages 4-8, learning Bible stories on their own.

My Review:
I like the I Can Read! Adventure Bible series. Joseph the Dreamer is especially wonderful for boys. In the story Joseph suffers at the hands of his brothers, goes on to fulfill God's plan and learns to forgive. The story is simple, yet holds a great message. If you have an early or independent reader, this series is a great addition to their library. David Miles creates colorful illustrations that enhance the story.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review. 

Book Description:

When King Nebuchadnezzar orders everyone in his kingdom to worship a golden statue, three young men refuse to obey. They disobey the king and risk death in the fiery furnace. Find out what happens in this Level 2 I Can Read written and illustrated in the tradition of the bestselling NIV Adventure Bible. Perfect for beginning readers ages 4-8, learning Bible stories on their own.

My Review:
Facing the Blazing Furnace is a good teaching tool for children to explain what it means to worship God. The story is exciting and intense and should be read together. With the characters walking into a fire, an adult will want to explain what the times were like for Daniel and his friends. As always David Miles illustrations add a great deal to the story.
I received this book in exchange for a fair review.  

Children's Book Review: The Berenstain Bears Storybook Bible for Little Ones

Mike Berenstain has continued his parents, Jan and Stan's legacy, by continuing to create Berenstain Bear books. The Bears have spent years teaching children positive lessons. In this storybook they are sharing stories of the Bible, including Noah's Ark, The Good Samaritan, and the story of Jesus resurrection. This book for little ones is based on The Berenstain Bears Storybook Bible and features eight stories from the Old and New testament.

I love the bright, cheerful illustrations used to tell the stories. You can't go wrong with the Berenstain Bears. Mike chose eight stories from the Bible often taught to little ones. He simplifies the stories yet keeps them full of faith and hope. The board book is easy for little hands to hold. This would be a great book to read to a young child snuggled on your lap or sitting on the floor in Sunday School. I recommend this book for children aged eighteen months to five years old. 

I received The Berenstain Bears Storybook Bible for Little Ones from Booklook Bloggers in exchange for a fair review.