Posts by Betsy Farquhar
Labor Day: Books about Work
Readers: this is an adaptation of one of the first posts on Redeemed Reader, way back in 2011 (written by Emily Whitten, the “I” in the post below). The original post had more commentary but fewer recommended books; you can find the original post here. “Of course ‘successful careers’ are important, but I would suggest…
Read MoreBack Porch Book Chat: Mark Hunt (Author), Part 2
Back Porch Book Chat: A casual conversation about books. Our guest today is Mark Hunt.
Read MoreBack Porch Book Chat: Mark Hunt (Author), Part 1
Back Porch Book Chat: A casual conversation about books. Our guest today is Mark Hunt.
Read MoreBack Porch Book Chat: Meghan Cox Gurdon (Book Reviewer, Author)
Back Porch Book Chat: A casual conversation about books. Our guest today is Meghan Cox Gurdon
Read MoreMaze Runner Series: a Christian Response
High octane, fast-paced adventure books for teens, the Maze Runner books raise interesting questions if readers can stop long enough to ponder. The Maze Runner Series by James Dashner. Delacorte. The Maze Runner. 2009. 375 pages. The Scorch Trials. 2010. 394 pages. The Death Cure. 2011. 368 pages. (The Kill Order; a prequel. 2012. Not…
Read MoreLord of the Flies: A Christian Response
When British boys are stranded alone on an island, can they govern themselves? Reading Level: Teens, ages 12 and up Recommended For: Teens, ages 15 and up Summary of The Lord of the Flies A plane crashes on a deserted island in the middle of nowhere. Pilot? Killed in the crash? Passengers? A group of…
Read MoreHigh School British Literature: A Lively Approach
High School British Literature: Dull and Difficult? When I arrived at college, I was absolutely, 100% convinced that British lit was my jam. But it’s safe to say that most of my peers, unless they were already diehard bibliophiles, didn’t share that same love of obscure Victorian novels. Fast forward 30 years, and it’s a…
Read MoreBack to School Books for Middle School
Is it back to school time already? Depending on which part of the country you live in, some schools will be starting up in the next couple of weeks! Most middle schoolers aren’t dying to read a book right before school starts, but keep these in mind as read-alouds or read-withs or even a “you…
Read MoreBack to School Picture Books
Is it back to school time already? Depending on which part of the country you live in, some schools will be starting up in the next couple of weeks! Whether it’s your child’s first year in school, your child’s first year in a new school, your first year teaching in a classroom, or just plain…
Read MoreTo Read or Not to Read? How to Choose Books
We read ahead for you. We’re passionate about kids’ books, culture, and Christ (although not necessarily in that order), and we value our (small) role in helping parents and educators make wise decisions about books for their children and teens. Our readers often request us to review a particular book or series. Sometimes, the book…
Read MorePicture Book Round Up: Cora Cooks Pancit, Thoughtfull, Rice From Heaven, My Breakfast With Jesus
Four picture books encourage young listeners to notice the people around them, to serve with kindness, and to celebrate the diversity of God’s church. Some titles border on books-with-a-message, but all are worth looking into. Look for them at your local library (they were all at mine, even the overtly Christian titles). I learned about…
Read MoreBorn Behind Bars by Padma Venkatramen
When Kabir leaves jail at age nine, he enters a world unknown to him: the free world. A delicate and sensitive novel for middle grades.
Read More*Psalm Twenty-Three and *The Lord’s Prayer, both illustrated by Tim Ladwig
Tim Ladwig illustrates two well-known Biblical texts, using Black families in urban settings in these picture books.
Read More*When Daddy Prays by Nikki Grimes and illustrated by Tim Ladwig
When Daddy Prays shows a child’s view of his pastor father, praying during all of life. Beautifully illustrated. *When Daddy Prays by Nikki Grimes and illustrated by Tim Ladwig. Eerdmans, 2002. 32 pages. Reading Level: Picture books Recommended For: Ages 4-8 “When Daddy prays/ my fear of darkness disappears/ and angels tiptoe down the hall.”…
Read More*Wild Things and Castles in the Sky from Square Halo Books
40 different authors write eloquently about children’s literature, faith in Christ, and shepherding imaginations in Wild Things and Castles in the Sky. *Wild Things and Castles in the Sky: A Guide to Choosing the Best Books for Children, edited by Leslie Bustard, Carey Bustard, and Théa Rosenburg. Square Halo Books, 2022. 272 pages. Reading Level:…
Read MoreAre Your Books Burdens or Blessings? (How to purge your home library collection to benefit others)
“How many bookshelf feet do you need?” This was my husband’s question after I requested some more bookshelves. My response: “I can fill whatever you give me.” Limits are useful, aren’t they? Unless they’re curtailing my book collection. I have books stacked on top of each other, books perched precariously on nightstands, books in my…
Read MoreThe Elk King by Jenn Discher
Can the Elk King guard and protect the animals of Glenariff in the face of treachery? This talking animal story will delight fans of The Green Ember and similar series. The Elk King by Jenn Discher. Independently published, 2022. 285 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle grades, ages 10-12. The Elk…
Read MoreAlice’s Farm: a Rabbit’s Tale by Maryrose Wood
Alice and her brother Thistle try to save a human’s farm in this sweet animal story by the author of The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place. Alice’s Farm: a Rabbit’s Tale by Maryrose Wood. Independently published, 2022. 285 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Middle grades, ages 6-12 (note considerations below) Alice…
Read MoreFire Bringer by David Clement-Davies
Rannoch is marked from birth, a deer who faces his destiny in this Watership Down read alike for teens. Fire Bringer by David Clement-Davies. Firebird, 2007 (re-issue). 512 pages. Reading Level: Teens, ages 12 and up Recommended For: Teens, ages 12 and up Rannoch is born a marked fawn, both literally and figuratively. The special…
Read MorePolo Cowboy by G. Neri
Cole learns to be a polo cowboy despite bullying and prejudice in this interesting follow-up to Ghetto Cowboy. Polo Cowboy by G. Neri and illustrated by Jesse Joshua Watson. Candlewick, 2021. 288 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages 10 and up (see considerations) After his second summer as a ghetto cowboy…
Read MoreFor Every Little Thing by June Cotner and Nancy Tupper Ling
For Every Little Thing invites children to celebrate each moment of the day through poems and prayers drawn from a wide range of religious and faith backgrounds. For Every Little Thing: Poems and Prayers to Celebrate the Day, selected by June Cotner and Nancy Tupper Ling and illustrated by Helen Cann. Eerdmans, 2021. 96 pages.…
Read MoreWake Up Missing by Kate Messner
Wake Up Missing mixes science with science fiction: DNA manipulation, nefarious plots, and excitement. Wake Up Missing by Kate Messner. Walker Childrens, 2013. 272 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages 9-12 When 12-year-old Cat suffers a concussion and brain damage after falling from her bird watching perch, nothing is quite the…
Read MoreFavorite Gardening Books for Kids
Spring has officially begun, and the garden beckons. Do you garden with your kids? If they’re not interested, try a gardening book just for kids: invite them into this marvelous experience! Initially, everything seems a mess of dry, dead-looking twigs. Clear away the old growth, though, and signs emerge everywhere, revealing new life that’s been…
Read MoreBecoming: Adapted for Young Readers by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s Becoming: Adapted for Young Readers is a winsome, engaging look at how one young woman went from Chicago’s South Side to the White House. Becoming: Adapted for Young Readers by Michelle Obama. Delacorte Press, 2021. 432 pages. Reading Level: Teens, Ages 12-15 Recommended For: Ages 14 and up. Summary of Becoming: Adapted for…
Read MoreI Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys
Plunge into fear, betrayal, and desperation alongside Christian in 1989 Romania in this thriller for teens. I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys. Philomel, 2022. 336 pages. Reading Level: Teens, Ages 15-18 Recommended For: Ages 14 and up Do you see me? Squinting beneath the half-light, searching for a key to the locked door of…
Read MoreChristian Easter Gifts for Kids and Teens
Do you give Easter gifts in your family? Most families I know give gifts—a lot of them—at Christmas, but give minimally (if at all) at Easter. And, frankly, that’s fine. Our culture loves to use any occasion to encourage us to buy more stuff, which most of us don’t need. And we know that Easter…
Read More*Bare Tree and Little Wind by Mitali Perkins
Bare Tree and Little Wind reminds readers that Jesus is the Real King, and He is coming again. *Bare Tree and Little Wind by Mitali Perkins and illustrated by Khoa Le. Waterbrook, 2022. 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: All ages. Bare Tree is stark and barren: no dates, no seeds,…
Read MoreBack Porch Book Chat: Megan Saben (Book Reviewer, Author, Homeschool Mom)
Back Porch Book Chat: A casual conversation about books. Our guest today is Megan Saben.
Read MoreFirekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley
A striking debut novel for older teens that is simultaneously gritty and tender, gripping and thought-provoking. Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley. Henry Holt, 2021. 496 pages. Reading Level: Teens, Ages 16 and up Recommended For: Ages 16 and up First: can we all admire this stunning book cover? It’s even better in person and, frankly,…
Read More*Easter Stories: Classic Tales for the Holy Season
Easter Stories is a lovely—and literary—collection of short stories from authors both old and new. *Easter Stories: Classic Tales for the Holy Season. Plough Publishing House, 2015. 374 pages. Reading Level: Teens, Ages 12 and up Recommended For: Ages 8 and up as a family read aloud Easter stories are about redemption. They’re about mankind’s…
Read MoreThe Apostles’ Creed by Ben Myers
A vibrantly illustrated picture book that helps parents explain the historic Apostles’ Creed to their children. The Apostles’ Creed: For All God’s Children by Ben Myers and illustrated by Natasha Kennedy. Lexham Press, 2022. 48 pages. Reading Level: Picture books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 4 and up. Many of us recite the Apostles’ Creed*…
Read More2022 Coretta Scott King Picture Book Roundup: Unspeakable, Nina, Soul Food Sunday, and More!
The 2022 Coretta Scott King Award The results for the 2022 Coretta Scott King Awards are IN! We already reviewed the winner, Unspeakable and one honor (We Wait for the Sun); the other reviews below are new. For those who are unfamiliar with the Coretta Scott King Awards, these “awards encourage the artistic expression of…
Read More*Carved in Ebony by Jasmine Holmes
Carved in Ebony profiles 10 inspiring Black women, looking at their lives, their callings, and their faith.
Read MoreSports Books for Kids That Pack a Punch
Are you watching the Superbowl this month? Do you cheer for other sports at home? What about baseball? soccer? basketball? track? Do your sports fans also love sports books? Sports books for kids are a distinct sub-genre, a definite “hook” for many reluctant readers. A good sports book offers more than just a sports story,…
Read MoreLifetime Achievement Awards: Nikki Grimes and Grace Lin
Unlike the Newbery or Caldecott, given for an author’s or illustrator’s work on a particular book, lifetime awards look at the author’s or illustrator’s work over the course of an entire career. Nikki Grimes and Grace Lin each were awarded a lifetime achievement award at the 2022 ALA Youth Media Awards, and they are deserving…
Read More2022 Caldecott Roundup: Watercress, Wonder Walkers, Have You Ever Seen a Flower?, Unspeakable, and Mel Fell
The 2022 Caldecott Award: One Winner and Four Honors The results for the 2022 Caldecott Award are IN! We reviewed the winner, Watercress, several months ago. We’ve excerpted that review below. We also previously reviewed Unspeakable; the other reviews are new. Watercress by Andrea Wang, illustrated by Jason Chin. Neal Porter Books, 2021. 32 pages.…
Read More2022 Newbery Buzz #4: Fallout
Our annual Newbery Buzz Series is a series we run each January in which we discuss books with “Newbery Buzz.” That is, books we’ve heard lots of “buzz” about on various children’s literature websites through the past year. No one knows which books have real “Newbery Buzz,” which books the actual Newbery committee is seriously…
Read MoreWhat’s the Big Deal With the Newbery Medal?
If you’ve been around Redeemed Reader very long, you’ll know that we look at possible Newbery winners every January. Why is the Newbery Medal so important? For that matter, just what is the Newbery Medal? Why should regular moms and dads care what wins each year? The John Newbery Medal The John Newbery Medal is…
Read More2022 Newbery Buzz #2: The One Thing You’d Save
We’ve begun our annual Newbery Buzz Series: a series we run each January in which we discuss books with “Newbery Buzz.” No one knows which books have real “Newbery Buzz,” which books the actual Newbery committee is seriously considering, but we think it’s valuable to take a closer look at the books our broader American…
Read More2022 Newbery Buzz #1: The Beatryce Prophecy
It’s time for our annual Newbery Buzz Series: a series we run each January in which we discuss books with “Newbery Buzz.” That is, books we’ve heard lots of “buzz” about on various children’s literature websites through the past year. No one knows which books have real “Newbery Buzz,” which books the actual Newbery committee…
Read MoreA Year in Books: Reflecting on Reading in 2021
A Year in Books: Reflecting on Reading in 2021 Do you track your reading? I’m good at tracking title + author and filling in my reading challenge categories (Grand Slam for me!). I’m terrible at reflecting on what I read, at least in any sort of permanent, written fashion. For the last few years, one…
Read MoreBack Porch Book Chat: Stephenie Pyles (Mom to 8 and Read Aloud Champion)
Back Porch Book Chat: A casual conversation about books. Our guest today is Stephenie Pyles
Read MoreBack Porch Book Chat: Mystie Winckler (Blogger, Author, Podcaster, and More)
Back Porch Book Chat: A casual conversation about books. Our guest today is Mystie Winckler
Read MoreBirdie’s Bargain by Katherine Paterson
Birdie makes a bargain with God in this middle grades book about a girl wrestling with faith, with God’s love, and with relationships. Birdie’s Bargain by Katherine Paterson. Candlewick, 2021. 240 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle grades, ages 9-12 I will love you and Jesus and be a witness in…
Read MoreBible Review: ESV Reformation Study Bible, Student Edition
ESV Reformation Study Bible, Student Edition. Ligonier, 2021, 2400 pages. Reading Level: Teens, 12 and up Recommended for: Ages 12 and up The ESV Reformation Study Bible has been around for years. Based on R. C. Sproul’s notes and teaching, the original version is a hefty tome chock-full of helpful aids, commentary, and meticulous notes…
Read More*Tales from Deckawoo Drive Series by Kate DiCamillo
Deckawoo Drive: Home of Mercy Watson and her Neighbors Even though my children are all teenagers now, and long past the chapter book stage, we still enjoy seeing what the folks on Deckawoo Drive are up to. Mercy Watson lives on Deckawoo Drive with some very entertaining neighbors, and one of Kate DiCamillo’s strongest authorial…
Read MoreFlashlight Reads: Can’t-Put-‘Em-Down Books for All Ages
Flashlight Reads: Can’t-Put-‘Em-Down Books for the Kids (and Grown-ups) in Your Life Christmas break is one of those perfect, read-by-flashlight-under-the-covers breaks, isn’t it? Days are short, nights are long. There’s no homework, which means more fun reading time. If you’re looking for books that are hard to put down, books that practically beg readers to…
Read MoreMeals From Mars by Ben Sciacca
Jim and Malik confront their own prejudices as they simultaneously experience God’s providence in a dangerous, complicated situation in this modern parable for teens and adults. Meals From Mars: A Parable of Prejudice and Providence by Ben Sciacca. NavPress, 2017. 224 pages. Reading Level: Teens/Adults Recommended For: Teens and adults, ages 15 and up Against…
Read MoreFallout by Steve Sheinkin
Sheinkin brings the Cuban Missile Crisis to life in this nail-biting read for young teens. Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown by Steve Sheinkin. Roaring Brook Press, 2021. 352 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10+ Recommended For: Middle Grades and Teens, ages 12+ This is a story about spies and spy…
Read MoreTop Secret by Crispin Boyer and Suzanne Zimbler
Learn what it takes to be a spy in this trivia-packed book from National Geographic Kids. Top Secret: Spies, Codes, Capers, Gadgets, and Classified Cases by Crispin Boyer and Suzanne Zimbler. National Geographic Kids, 2021. 192 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle Grades ages 9-15 Curious about what it takes to…
Read More*Big Questions Series by Chris Morphew
The Big Questions Series raises—and answers—life’s big questions on a level that middle schoolers will understand and appreciate: suffering, life after death, and more. *The Big Questions Series by Chris Morphew. The Good Book Co., 2021. 96 pages each. What Happens When We Die? Why Does God Let Bad Things Happen? How Do We Know…
Read MoreThe Barren Grounds and The Great Bear by David A. Robertson
Morgan and Eli find their way through an attic portal into a new land, Misewa, in this engaging series for middle grades. The Barren Grounds and The Great Bear (Misewa Saga books 1 and 2) by David A. Robertson. Puffin Canada, 2020 and 2021. ~250 pages each Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For:…
Read MoreAndrew and the Firedrake by Douglas Wilson
In this allegory for middle grades, Andrew journeys on a quest that includes delights, temptations, and dragons. Andrew and the Firedrake by Douglas Wilson. Canon Press, 2021. 188 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle grades, ages 8-12 When Andrew wakes up, he’s in a strange garden. He’s not sure why he’s…
Read MoreHere, There Be Dragons by James A. Owen
John, Charles, and Jack go to the edge of the world in this wild, fantastic romp through the lands of myth and legend. Here, There Be Dragons (Chronicles of the Imaginarium Geographica #1) by James A. Owen. Simon & Schuster, 2006. 336 pages. Reading Level: Teens, Ages 12+ Recommended For: Teens, Ages 12+ John answered…
Read MoreDragons and Dragonslayers by Tim Chester
Dragons and Dragonslayers by Tim Chester introduces young readers to eight dragon stories along with THE dragon story. Dragons and Dragonslayers by Tim Chester. Canonball Books, 2020. 98 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, Ages 8-12 Recommended For: Middle Grades, Ages 8-12 As the first chapter says, “Everyone loves a dragon story.” There are dragon stories…
Read MoreShop The Good Book Company!
Readers, as part of our 2021 Christmas Gift Lists, we’re featuring favorite Christian publishers and booksellers. Amazon is a great option for many things, but shopping directly from Christian booksellers and publishers is a great way to support fellow Christians in an industry increasingly hostile to Christians. More of your dollars stay in their pockets,…
Read MoreShop New Growth Press!
Readers, as part of our 2021 Christmas Gift Lists, we’re featuring favorite Christian publishers and booksellers. Amazon is a great option for many things, but shopping directly from Christian booksellers and publishers is a great way to support fellow Christians in an industry increasingly hostile to Christians. More of your dollars stay in their pockets,…
Read MoreShop Ligonier Ministries!
Readers, as part of our 2021 Christmas Gift Lists, we’re featuring favorite Christian publishers and booksellers. Amazon is a great option for many things, but shopping directly from Christian booksellers and publishers is a great way to support fellow Christians in an industry increasingly hostile to Christians. More of your dollars stay in their pockets,…
Read MoreShop Rabbit Room!
Readers, as part of our 2021 Christmas Gift Lists, we’re featuring favorite Christian publishers and booksellers. Amazon is a great option for many things, but shopping directly from Christian booksellers and publishers is a great way to support fellow Christians in an industry increasingly hostile to Christians. More of your dollars stay in their pockets,…
Read MoreShop Moody Publishers!
Readers, as part of our 2021 Christmas Gift Lists, we’re featuring favorite Christian publishers and booksellers. Amazon is a great option for many things, but shopping directly from Christian booksellers and publishers is a great way to support fellow Christians in an industry increasingly hostile to Christians. More of your dollars stay in their pockets,…
Read MoreShop Indie Books!
Readers, as part of our 2021 Christmas Gift Lists, we’re featuring favorite Christian publishers and booksellers. Amazon is a great option for many things, but shopping directly from Christian booksellers and publishers is a great way to support fellow Christians in an industry increasingly hostile to Christians. More of your dollars stay in their pockets,…
Read MoreShop Exodus Books!
Readers, as part of our 2021 Christmas Gift Lists, we’re featuring favorite Christian publishers and booksellers. Amazon is a great option for many things, but shopping directly from Christian booksellers and publishers is a great way to support fellow Christians in an industry increasingly hostile to Christians. More of your dollars stay in their pockets,…
Read MoreBack Porch Book Chat: Eli Evans from Exodus Books
Back Porch Book Chat: A casual, virtual conversation about books. Join us as we chat with book lovers like ourselves about a topic we all love! Our guest today is Eli Evans, owner of Exodus Books. He joins us today to chat all things books. Readers, he’s a kindred spirit and has some outstanding suggestions…
Read MoreWonders of His Love by Champ Thornton
Wonders of His Love brings Isaiah’s prophecies about the Messiah down to a child-friendly level in this vibrant Advent family devotional. *Wonders of His Love: Finding Jesus in Isaiah by Champ Thornton. New Growth Press, 2021. 80 pages. Reading Level: Adults Recommended For: Families with kids of all ages, especially younger children Certain passages in…
Read MoreThe Adventure of Christmas by Ed Drew
The Adventure of Christmas offers short, 10-minute family devotions based on the biblical narrative of the first Christmas. The Adventure of Christmas: A Journey Through Advent for the Whole Family by Ed Drew, and illustrated by Alex Webb-Peploe. The Good Book Co., 2021. 128 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: All ages…
Read More*The Dawn of Redeeming Grace by Sinclair Ferguson
Winsome and pastoral, The Dawn of Redeeming Grace is a thoughtful Advent meditation on Matthew 1-2 for teens and up. *The Dawn of Redeeming Grace: Daily Devotions for Advent by Sinclair Ferguson. The Good Book Co., 2021. 160 pages. Reading Level: Teens (ages 12 and up) Recommended For: Teens and up Most of us can…
Read More*Is Christmas Unbelievable? by Rebecca McLaughlin
Rebecca McLaughlin answers four questions everyone should ask about the Christmas story, beginning with the historicity of Jesus Himself. A great resource for teens. *Is Christmas Unbelievable? Four Questions Everyone Should Ask About the World’s Most Famous Story by Rebecca McLaughlin. The Good Book Co., 2021. 64 pages. Reading Level: Teens (and up) Recommended For:…
Read MoreThe Promise and the Light by Katy Morgan
An engaging and thought-provoking retelling of the Christmas story through the eyes of biblical characters. The Promise and the Light by Katy Morgan. The Good Book Co., 2021. 128 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages 12-15 (and some mature younger readers) Mary is a teenager who loves singing, telling stories to…
Read MoreA Mad Hatter Book List: Picture Books About Hats
Hat books? Are they a thing? Yes they are, and not all are created equal. Most children love trying on and wearing hats, the bigger and flashier the better. Naturally, they also enjoy books about hats. So, in honor of Mad Hatter Day (October 6), we’ve collected some of our favorite hat books for your…
Read MoreReading Less … In Different Seasons of Life
Is someone at Redeemed Reader telling you to read LESS? Well, perhaps. In our small niche of websites-that-promote-reading, we love to celebrate all things reading, all things book-related, all things wordy. Read more to your kids! Read aloud every day! Encourage your kids to always be reading! Books are awesome! Your child doesn’t love to…
Read MoreSmaug’s Kind: A List of Dragon Books
In honor of Bilbo Baggins and his birthday this week (September 22), we have a book list celebrating his defeat of Smaug, the great dragon: it’s full of dragon books! Most of the dragon books below feature enemy dragons that are defeated; a few feature friendly—or even reluctant—dragons. You’ll find Bilbo himself keeping company with…
Read MoreAttack of the Killer Komodos by Summer Rachel Short
Action, adventure, and chimeras await Maggie and Nate in Yellowstone in the Attack of the Killer Komodos. Attack of the Killer Komodos (A Maggie and Nate Mystery) by Summer Rachel Short. Simon & Shuster, 2021. 240 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, Ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages 10 and up Maggie and Nate are in Yellowstone…
Read MoreThe Raconteur’s Commonplace Book by Kate Milford
15 storytellers each tell a mesmerizing tale for the Raconteur’s Commonplace book, a book as clever as any Milford has written. The Raconteur’s Commonplace Book : A Greenglass House Story by Kate Milford. Clarion, 2021. 400 pages. Reading Level: Teens, Ages 12-15 Recommended For: Ages 12 and up A storm is brewing outside the Blue…
Read MoreRight Cross by Andrew Huff
John and Christine face the most nefarious villain yet in Right Cross, the conclusion to the Shepherd Suspense Trilogy. Right Cross (Shepherd Suspense #3) by Andrew Huff. Kregel Publications, 2021. 272 pages. Reading Level: Adults Recommended For: Teens, ages 15 and up John Cross has gone rogue. Or has he? Christine isn’t sure what to…
Read MoreFranklin Endicott and the Third Key by Kate DiCamillo
Franklin Endicott learns to appreciate mystery and story instead of worrying in this delightful chapter book from Kate DiCamillo. Franklin Endicott and the Third Key: Tales from Deckawoo Drive, vol. 6 by Kate DiCamillo. Candlewick, 2021. 112 pages. Reading Level: Chapter Books, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Ages 6-10 Franklin Endicott is a worrier. Sometimes, he…
Read More*Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies by Marilyn McEntyre
Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies makes readers think through how to be better stewards of words. *Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies, 2nd edition by Marilyn McEntyre. Eerdmans, 2021. 248 pages. Reading Level: Adults Recommended For: Teens and adults, ages 15 and up Words are entrusted to us as equipment…
Read MoreStones and Stories by Judith E. Anderson
Stones and Stories is a concise primer on literary analysis and hermeneutics, building off the intriguing extended metaphor of stones. Stones and Stories: A Primer on Literary Analysis, Hermeneutics, and Writing by Judith E. Anderson. Resource Publications, 2019. 96 pages. Reading Level: Teens, ages 12 and up Recommended For: Teens, ages 12 and up, in…
Read MoreA Bible Reading Pilgrimage in Three Parts
Bible Pilgrimage, Part 1: Reading the Bible with Young Children Almost 10 years ago (in January, 2012), before Megan and I joined the official Redeemed Reader team, Janie and Emily embarked on an ambitious, read along project: a Bible Reading Challenge.* 48 weeks’ worth, to be exact. As a mom of 3 young children, I…
Read MoreMy Tech-Wise Life by Amy Crouch and Andy Crouch
A teen challenges her fellow teens to make smart decisions about technology in My Tech-Wise Life. My Tech-Wise Life: Growing up and Making Choices in a World of Devices by Amy Crouch and Andy Crouch. Baker Books, 2020. 208 pages. Reading Level: Teens, ages 12 and up Recommended For: Teens, ages 12 and up (note…
Read MoreHigh School American Literature: A Better Approach
High School American Literature: Often Dark and Depressing When I arrived at college, I was absolutely, 100% convinced that British lit was my jam. American literature could stay on the shelf, for all I cared. Ironically, I adored my high school American literature teacher. I just didn’t enjoy what we read in class. Sadly, my…
Read MoreFavorite High School Video Curricula for Homeschool or Enrichment
We are fans of BOOKS here at Redeemed Reader, to be sure. But we are also interested in raising up the next generation of writers who write for God’s glory. Sometimes books are the best resource for educating young people. Sometimes, though, video is better. I am a former classroom educator. I currently educate my…
Read MoreSTEM in the World Series by Marne Ventura
STEM is vital to sports! Ventura shows young readers how physics, technology, engineering, and math work in baseball’s favorite event. STEM in the World Series by Marne Ventura. SportsZone, 2020. 48 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Ages 6-10 The World Series was first played in 1903. Baseball—and sports in general—has certainly…
Read MoreWordsmith Curriculum Review: A Writing Curriculum by our own Janie Cheaney
NOTE: We’re taking a week off our Summer Reading Challenge to think ahead about the coming school year. Welcome to Wordsmith Week! Leading off with this review, in which Betsy gushes over Wordsmith Apprentice, Wordsmith, and Wordsmith Craftsman. A Curriculum Review? We don’t usually review curriculum resources here at Redeemed Reader. And yet. When your…
Read More*American History by Thomas Kidd
Interesting and readable, American History by Thomas Kidd is an outstanding resource for high school Christian students and teachers. *American History by Thomas Kidd. B&H Academic, 2019. 704 pages. Reading Level: Adult, ages 16 and up Recommended For: Teens and Adults, ages 14 and up What seems inordinately significant in retrospect may not have seemed…
Read MoreStrong Voices: Fifteen American Speeches Worth Knowing, selected and introduced by Tonya Bolden
Strong Voices shares fifteen great American speeches from men and women throughout America’s history. Strong Voices: Fifteen American Speeches Worth Knowing, selected and introduced by Tonya Bolden, illustrated by Eric Velasquez. HarperCollins, 2020. 128 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages 10 and up (note considerations!) “The Gettysburg Address.” “Give Me Liberty…
Read MoreLoot and Sting by Jude Watson
Loot and Sting are light-hearted “heist” novels for middle grades. Loot and Sting by Jude Watson. Scholastic, 2015 (Loot) and 2017 (Sting). 272 pages (both). Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 March has been well educated by his father; he knows how to pick locks, dodge and evade capture,…
Read MoreCity Spies Series by James Ponti
City Spies is a fun, middle grades mystery series featuring undercover teen spies from around the world, each with a special talent. City Spies Series by James Ponti. Aladdin. City Spies (2020). 378 pages. Golden Gate (2021). 432 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle grades and up When Sara is rescued…
Read More*Recovering the Lost Art of Reading by Leland Ryken and Glenda Faye Mathes
Recovering the Lost Art of Reading invites readers to reconsider how and why they read; it offers ideas and suggestions for Christians who want to read for the true, the good, and the beautiful. *Recovering the Lost Art of Reading: A Quest for the True, the Good, and the Beautiful by Leland Ryken and Glenda…
Read MoreSummer Reading is Here!
We’ve been planning Faith & Fortitude, our 2021 summer reading program, for months, and it’s finally here! We officially begin on Monday, June 14th–that’s this coming Monday! It’s not too late to join in the fun (even if you’re reading this after Monday). Read on to find out more about our 2021 summer reading challenge.…
Read MoreThe Overthrow Series by Kenneth Oppel: Bloom, Hatch, and Thrive
The fast-paced Overthrow sci-fi series by Kenneth Oppel raises interesting questions for young teens. The Overthrow Series by Kenneth Oppel. Knopf Books for Young Readers. Bloom (2020); 320 pages Hatch (2020); 416 pages Thrive (2021); 416 pages Reading level: Teen/Adult, Ages 12 and up Recommended for: Ages 12 and up A strange rain drops seeds…
Read MoreThe Great Gatsby in Graphic Novel Form
Hayley and Betsy discuss the excellent, new graphic novel adaptation of The Great Gatsby adapted by K. Woodman-Maynard (Candlewick, 2021). First Impressions of The Great Gatsby Graphic Novel by K. Woodman-Maynard Betsy: Hayley, you and I both read one of the new graphic novel adaptations of The Great Gatsby this spring. The Great Gatsby hit…
Read MoreTeaching Kids Church History
Today, we’re happy to welcome a friend of mine and fellow writer, Christina Fox, to RR. Christina is a real life friend of mine, as well as a writer, blogger, coffee lover, and homeschool mom. She is the author of A Heart Set Free: A Journey Through the Psalms of Lament (Christian Focus 2016) and…
Read MoreFavorite Audiobooks: Narrators, Books, and More!
Favorite audiobooks and narrators for your listening pleasure over the holidays (and road trips any other time of the year!)
Read More2021 Summer Reading: Faith & Fortitude Is Here!
2021 Summer Reading Theme We’re very excited about the 2021 summer reading theme: Faith & Fortitude: the EPIC Story of God’s People. Why? We’re big fans of EPIC by Tim Challies, and we’ve been planning this for months! We’re also big fans of reading about God’s work among his people, through all time and in…
Read MoreAdulting 101, Book 2: #liveyourbestlife
Adulting 101, Book 2 is an excellent graduation gift idea or resource for teens heading to college or into the workforce. Adulting 101, Book 2: #liveyourbestlife by Josh Burnette and Pete Hardesty. Broadstreet, 2021. 176 pages. Reading Level: Teens, ages 16 and up Recommended For: Teens, ages 16 and up We hear a lot about…
Read More5 Minutes in Church History and In the Year of Our Lord
5 Minutes in Church History and In the Year of Our Lord each view church history through an engaging and refreshing lens. ***Giveaway Is Now Closed*** *5 Minutes in Church History: An Introduction to the Stories of God’s Faithfulness in the History of the Church by Stephen J. Nichols. Reformation Trust Publishing, 2019. 154 pages.…
Read MoreGraduation Gift List
Need a graduation gift idea for a new or recent graduate? We’ve got you covered! ‘Tis the season when many young men and women doff mortar boards and tassels and step forward into their future. Why not give them a book that will help turn them ever more to Christ as they move forward into…
Read More*Truths We Confess by R. C. Sproul
Truths We Confess is a concise, accessible, and systematic exposition of the Westminster Confession of Faith, perfect for seniors, new graduates, and Sunday school groups. *Truths We Confess: A Systematic Exposition of the Westminster Confession of Faith (Revised Edition) by R. C. Sproul. Reformation Trust Publishing, 2019. 751 pages. Reading Level: Teen/Adult, ages 16 and…
Read More*Proverbs For You and Solomon Says: 2 Books for Graduates
Two recent, excellent books on Proverbs offer biblical wisdom and counsel, perfect for new graduates. Note: both of these books target new adults (and up). Before handing these books to younger teens, consider previewing the books. Proverbs is very frank in its discussions of sexuality, in particular, and good study guides on the book generally…
Read More*Tell God How You Feel by Christina Fox
Tell God How You Feel equips parents and teachers to help kids with hard emotions from a biblical framework. *Tell God How You Feel: Helping Kids with Hard Emotions by Christina Fox. CF4Kids, 2021. 84 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Ages 4 and up Tell God How You Feel is first…
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