Posts by Betsy Farquhar
Musical Mondays and Theology Thursdays: How to Use Christian Resources with Kids
We love to track down solid biblical resources for you to use with your families, Sunday School classrooms, and Christian school classrooms. Not only do we review them, they make regular appearances on our Christmas, Easter, and Graduation Gift Lists. We even spent the month of October focusing just on Church History! But do you…
Read MoreDon’t Take Yourself (or Your Reading) Too Seriously!
Today, in my leisure reading, I came across some good “fifty cent” words: pandemonium, benefactors, stratosphere, maligned, facilitate, photons,… I also noticed some terrific literary allusions (such as Hamlet). This particular title is from the Dewey (nonfiction) shelves, and I noted that the visuals were a terrific addition to the text. They enriched my understanding of…
Read MoreTo See or Not To See: The RR Team Reflects on the New Beauty and the Beast
This discussion is part of our Beauty and the Beast Adventure this month. The text below reflects several ongoing discussions the Redeemed Reader team has had via email this month. We are trying to model how Christians might go about deciding whether to see this movie as well to model some of the discussions you might have…
Read MoreThe Martian: Classroom Edition by Andy Weir
A snarky, totally believable science fiction narrative for teens. The Martian: Classroom Edition by Andy Weir. Broadway Books, 2016. 400 pages. Reading Level: Teens, ages 15-18 Recommended For: Teens, ages 15-18 Andy Weir never dreamed his book would be a runaway hit! First published in blog format, then in practically free Kindle format (at the request…
Read MoreEvery Falling Star: A Beauty and the Beast Discussion!
Like our Newbery Buzz discussions, Janie and Betsy discuss Every Falling Star “virtually” in light of our Beauty and the Beast Adventure this month. We hope these discussions help model how to talk to the kids in your life about books! In the fall, we reviewed a poignant memoir for teens, Every Falling Star, that chronicled one boy’s desperation in…
Read MoreThe Queen of Katwe: Book and Movie Review
This is a featured title in our Beauty and the Beast Adventure. Redeemed Reader is not affiliated with or endorsing the new Disney Beauty and the Beast film; rather, we are examining the traditional fairy tale, its biblical themes, and relevant contemporary literature and movies. Meet Phiona, Queen of Katwe, in this thought-provoking, sensitive true story for…
Read MoreBeauty and the Beast by Nancy Willard and illustrated by Barry Moser
Beautiful, lengthy prose accompanied by striking woodcut illustrations make this retelling a good fit for intermediate and middle grade readers. Beauty and the Beast by Nancy Willard and illustrated by Barry Moser. Harcourt, 1992. 67 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-12 Recommended For: middle grades, ages 8-12, and younger (experienced) listeners Pretty girls are a dime…
Read MoreBeauty and the Beast – Devotional #2: the Beast
See our first Beauty and the Beast Devotional if you missed it! This is part of our Beauty and the Beast Adventure which is focusing on the traditional fairy tale and examining it in light of Scripture and comparing it with relevant literature. We are not affiliated with or endorsing the new Disney movie. The…
Read MoreBeauty and the Beast retold by Cynthia Rylant and illustrated by Meg Park
This is one of the picture book retellings of Beauty and the Beast we are featuring as part of our Beauty and the Beast Adventure. We are exploring the great biblical themes of beauty, beast, love, and redemption as depicted in the traditional fairy tale. Redeemed Reader is not affiliated with or endorsing the new Disney live…
Read MoreBeauty and the Beast Adventure
Join us as we dive into the themes and stories behind Beauty and the Beast during the month of March! And don’t worry, it’s not just for girls–we have lots of relevant “boy” titles, too. Please note that Redeemed Reader is not affiliated with or endorsing the new Disney movie; rather we are examining the traditional fairy tale…
Read More*The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson
An epic middle grades fantasy series full of adventure, toothy cows, heroes and heroines, and dragons. *The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson. Rabbit Room Press. On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness. 2008. 284 pages. North! Or Be Eaten. 2009. 330 pages. The Monster in the Hollows. 2011. 348 pages. The Warden and the Wolf King.…
Read More*Wingfeather Tales (The Wingfeather Saga) edited by Andrew Peterson
A delightfully diverse collection of “tales” written and illustrated by a group of authors and illustrators who are themselves fans of the Wingfeather Saga! *Wingfeather Tales (The Wingfeather Saga) edited by Andrew Peterson. Rabbit Room, 2016. 339 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 12-15 Recommended For: Ages 10 and up, especially fans of the Wingfeather Saga…
Read More*100 Cupboards Series by N. D. Wilson
Henry discovers 100 cupboards that lead to other worlds in this complex middle grades fantasy series that mirrors the creation-fall-redemption narrative framework of Scripture. 100 Cupboards (100 Cupboards, Book 1) by N. D. Wilson. Yearling, 2008 (paperback). 320 pages. Dandelion Fire (100 Cupboards, Book 2) by N. D. Wilson. Yearling, 2009. 480 pages. The Chestnut King…
Read MoreRapid Fire: 10 Recent Award-Winning Picture Books
Rapid Fire: a quick, “rapid fire” list of mini-book reviews. Janie and I love to prognosticate the Newbery Award, discuss possible contenders, and dialogue during the announcement itself! But the ALA announces many more awards than the Newbery or Caldecott. Enjoy this “rapid fire” list of short reviews of some of the other award-winning (picture) books announced…
Read MoreStraight Talk About the Birds and the Bees
This is a review specifically for parents; librarians and teachers may benefit as well, but children should ask their parents first before reading further. This is also part reflection/part review, so the format is a bit different and longer than our usual reviews. With Valentine’s Day hovering, love is not just in the air, but has been assaulting our…
Read MoreTeaching Discernment: Bad Words in Books
True Story: We’re getting in the car after a park date with our homeschool friends, and one of my 9-year-old sons says: Mom! We learned some new bad words from Jim*! He told us about the F-word…. *name changed for privacy sake. I mention that this child is homeschooled only to point out that our children…
Read MorePrognosticating the 2017 Newbery (and other ALA Awards)
Today’s the day Betsy and Janie haul out their crystal balls from under the clutter in the hall closet (Betsy moved across country this year, so she’ll be lucky if she can find hers!) and try to predict this year’s winners of the coveted Newbery award. Our crystal balls are usually very cloudy–for the last…
Read More4 Excellent New Picture Books
[Reviews and recommendations from Pamela!] Four excellent new picture books to enjoy with the children in your life–worth seeking out as all are starred reviews! *The Darkest Dark by Chris Hadfield with Kate Fillion, illustrated by The Fan Brothers. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2016. 48 pages. Reading Level: Ages 4-8 Recommended for reading aloud, especially…
Read MorePeter Nimble and His Fantastic Eyes by Jonathan Auxier
A blind boy and an enchanted knight set off on an epic quest in this middle grades fantasy adventure. Peter Nimble and His Fantastic Eyes: A Peter Nimble Adventure by Jonathan Auxier. Amulet, 2011. 400 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle grades, ages 10-12 (especially lovers of long, intricate fantasies!) We meet…
Read MoreSophie Quire and the Last Storyguard by Jonathan Auxier
A wildly imaginative middle grades fantasy about the power of stories and the lengths to which we must go to protect them. Sophie Quire and the Last Storyguard: a Peter Nimble Adventure by Jonathan Auxier. Abrams, 2016. 454 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle grades, ages 10-12 (or anyone who enjoys a…
Read More2017 Newbery Buzz: Some Writer! and Snow White
Historically—and overwhelmingly—the Newbery Award has graced the covers of fictional prose novels. And yet, even “back in the day,” there were some outliers. Nancy Willard’s A Visit to William Blake’s Inn was both a book of poetry and a picture book. But there certainly seems to be more diversity of format in the past five years: verse…
Read More2017 Newbery Buzz: Pax and Wolf Hollow
January is Newbery month—that is, when the American Library Association holds their annual winter conference, the highlight of which is the ALA Youth Media Awards. The Monday-morning announcement (Jan. 23 this year) covers many awards, but the Newbery, as the oldest (actually, the oldest award for children’s books in the whole world) is always the…
Read MoreGo 3D This Year: a Dewey Decimal Dare
Remember when you were in elementary school and dutifully learned the Dewey Decimal system? If you’re like me, you got to college and promptly forgot those Dewey numbers as you prowled stacks labeled by Library of Congress (LOC) numbers and letters. Crazy. And yet, a very short time into my elementary school library work, and I…
Read More2017 Reading Challenge for Kids with Printable
The Grown-Ups’ 2017 Reading Challenge Perhaps you have seen Tim Challies‘s 2017 Reading Challenge. Inspired in part by an original PopSugar reading challenge, Challies has broken his challenge down into different levels of readers: those who might just want to tackle one book a month (“Light”) all the way to those who want to read two books every week…
Read More*Anna Hibiscus Series by Atinuke
An illustrated chapter book series set in contemporary Africa that celebrates large families, its childlike protagonist, and traditional values. Enjoy this review from the archives! Originally published June 22, 2015. *Anna Hibiscus (series) by Atinuke. Walker Childrens and/or Kane Miller. 2010s. Reading Level: Chapter books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 4-8, especially girls Anna Hibiscus lives in…
Read More*The Imagination Station (Series) by Marianne Hering and Paul McCusker
More than simply a “Christian version” of the popular Magic Treehouse books, the Imagination Station books are a solid chapter book time travel series. Enjoy this post from our archives! Originally published May 21, 2015. *The Imagination Station Series by Marianne Hering and Paul McCusker. Focus on the Family, 2011-present. 130 pages each. Reading Level: Chapter Books, ages 8-10…
Read MoreMiddle Grade Fiction with Fibonacci, Tesla, and More!
a post from the archives! (originally published March 26, 2014) When I was a child I read large numbers of mysteries and was always somewhat irritated when I had to go to math class. I did just fine in math class, but all that specificity got in the way of my more verbal and creative side.…
Read More*Zita the Spacegirl Series by Ben Hatke
Zita the Spacegirl and her intrepid friends battle the forces of evil in extra terrestrial dimensions in this lively graphic novel series. a review from our archives! (originally published May 25, 2015) *Zita the Spacegirl Series by Ben Hatke. First Second, 2011 (to the present). ~200 pages Reading Level: Graphic novels, ages 8-12 Recommended For:…
Read MoreThe Mysterious Howling (The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #1) by Maryrose Wood
Miss Penelope Lumley has been hired by Lord and Lady Ashton as governess to their three strange children in this delightful series opener. A review from our archives! (originally published June 6, 2016) The Mysterious Howling (The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #1) by Maryrose Wood and illustrated by Jon Klassen. HarperCollins, 2009. 267 pages. Reading…
Read MoreRoad Trip! 10 Audio Book Suggestions for the Whole Family
a popular post from our archives! Christmas is coming! And with it, lots of potential travel time…in the car…all together now…. If you’re a screen-free-whilst-driving kind of family like my own, sometimes it can be a challenge to figure out how to entertain folks and maintain peace, especially if there are presents squished in around…
Read More40 Books for Dads to Read to Their Kids
Strong father figures, adventures, humor, and general fun await! 40 books for DADS to read to their kids: fantasy, realistic fiction, historical fiction. Humor, adventure, coming-of-age, thought-provoking, silly…. there’s a little something for every dad on this list. This list represents some of the Redeemed Reader team’s favorite books for dads to read to their…
Read MoreJazz Day: The Making of a Famous Photo by Roxanne Orgill
An iconic photograph comes to life in this well-crafted sophisticated, artistic picture book. This is a review by Pamela Palmer, a new addition to our Redeemed Reader reviewers! She is a former librarian and has many years of experience writing reviews, reading books for award committees, and recommending books to young people and their families. She…
Read More*The Secret Keepers by Trenton Lee Stewart
A magic watch, a family secret, a mysterious city dictator, and one brave boy make for a great read in this clever, inventive mystery. One of our picks for our Winter Book Fair 2016! This is a review by Pamela Palmer, a new addition to our Redeemed Reader reviewers! She is a former librarian and has many…
Read More*Whoosh! Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions by Chris Barton
A delightful picture book biography about a boy who loved to tinker and grew up to work on rockets and invent America’s favorite water gun!
Read MoreTwelfth Night: Shakespeare’s Christmas Play
Twelfth Night, or What You Will is not exactly a Christmas play, I’ll admit. But “Twelfth Night” does refer to the 12th night of the 12 Days of Christmas parties celebrations when order is restored. Although neither Christmas nor Twelfth Night is mentioned in the play itself, the theme of the play is one we as…
Read MorePutting My Money Where My Mouth Is: Christmas Gifts!
Upholding My Reputation I’ve written before about the reputation I must uphold each year with my nieces and nephews. And it’s that time of year again–time to put my money where my mouth is and actually BUY books. Really, any excuse will do, but it’s so much fun to load up the ol’ amazon cart…
Read MoreThe Coloring Book of Cards and Envelopes: Christmas
A whimsical collection of 24 cards and coordinating envelopes to color and share this Christmas! The Coloring Book of Cards and Envelopes: Christmas by Nosy Crow and Rebecca Jones. Nosy Crow, 2016. Reading Level: All Recommendation: All ages! This is a delightful collection of thick paper cards and coordinating envelopes (that crafters get to fold…
Read MoreSupport Redeemed Reader!
Dear Faithful Readers, Those of you who have been reading and interacting with Redeemed Reader for more than a year get a gold star from us! In this season of giving thanks, know that we are giving thanks for YOU. This past year and a half have been fraught with changes and challenges for…
Read More*Some Writer! by Melissa Sweet
A wonderfully engaging biography of E. B. White for children: full of photographs, collage-style art, and interesting details. *Some Writer! The Story of E. B. White by Melissa Sweet. HMH Books for Young Readers, 2016. 176 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, Ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages 7 and up, especially for children and families who…
Read More2016 Winter Book Fair: Books For Everyone!
2016 Winter Book Fair Books for Everyone On Your Christmas List! We have chosen the best of the best, our personal favorites, and plenty of great reads for the list below. We hope this helps you pick books for the kids in your life who love to read–and those who don’t (yet)! All titles are linked…
Read More*When the Sea Turned to Silver by Grace Lin
The power of stories is front and center in this beautiful, imaginative companion to Where the Mountain Meets the Moon. Starred review. A 2016 Christmas Gift List Title! *When the Sea Turned to Silver by Grace Lin. Little, Brown, 2016. 340 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-12 Recommended For: Ages 8 and up, family…
Read MoreThe Plot to Kill Hitler: Dietrich Bonhoeffer by Patricia McCormick
Suspenseful prose and careful research make Bonhoeffer’s brave actions come to life for teen readers. The Plot to Kill Hitler: Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Spy, Unlikely Hero by Patricia McCormick. Blazer + Bray, 2016. 192 pages. Reading Level: Middle grade/teen, Ages 12 and up Recommended For: middle grades and up (ages 10 and up) Bonhoeffer grew up…
Read MoreEvery Falling Star by Sungju Lee and Susan Elizabeth McClelland
Grit, friendship, and hope come together in this bittersweet memoir for teens. Every Falling Star: The True Story of How I Survived and Escaped North Korea by Sungju Lee and Susan Elizabeth McClelland. Abrams, 2016. 336 pages. Reading Level: Teen, Ages 12-15 Recommended For: Teens, ages 12 and up Sungju’s father was a well-respected leader in…
Read MorePastor, Blogger, Author, Editor: More Church History Recommendations for the Whole Family!
We’ve spent all month reading and learning about church history. It’s been such a rich study with interviews and book reviews, but we are not the only ones who care about reading church history! We’ve asked some folks to contribute to our study with their top 5 church history recommendations for all ages. Check out these…
Read MoreThe Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste
Haitian folklore comes to life in this spooky story about jumbies, a brave girl and her friends, and oranges. The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste. Algonquin Young Readers, 2016. 240 pages. Reading Level: middle grades, ages 8-12 Recommended For: middle grades, ages 10 and up (and possibly younger; note cautions) Corinne la Mer misses her mother…
Read MoreThe Left-Handed Fate by Kate Milford
A swashbuckling, complex middle grades fantasy set on board an unlucky pirate ship in the midst of war. The Left-Handed Fate by Kate Milford. Henry Holt and Co., 2016. 384 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, 10-12 Recommended For: middle grades, ages 10-12, and up Lucy Bluecrowne (newly made captain of her father’s ship) and Maxwell…
Read MoreTrial and Triumph/ *Radiant by Richard M. Hannula
Church history anthologies of men and women from all over the world in story format for middle grades and up! Trial and Triumph: Stories from Church History by Richard Hannula. Canon Press, 1999. 294 pages. *Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History by Richard Hannula. Canon Press, 2015. 330 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages…
Read MoreHeroes of the Faith Series by Sinclair Ferguson
Three imaginative picture book biographies of early church heroes. Heroes of the Faith Series by Sinclair Ferguson. Banner of Truth Books. Ignatius of Antioch: The Man Who Faced Lions (2001)Polycarp of Smyrna: The Man Whose Faith Lasted (2010)Irenaeus of Lyons: The Man Who Wrote Books (2010) Reading Level: Picture books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Educators…
Read MoreThe Accidental Voyage by Douglas Bond
Mr. Pipes is back with Annie and Drew on a wild adventure in Italy as they simultaneously learn about the ancient church and its music. The Accidental Voyage: Discovering Hymns of the Early Centuries (Mr. Pipes Series #4) by Douglas Bond. P&R Publishing, 2005. 258 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle grades,…
Read MoreWinnie-the-Pooh: Two True Stories
Two picture books about the real Winnie-the-Pooh that both make delightful reading! *Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World’s Most Famous Bear by Lindsay Mattick and illustrated by Sophie Blackall. Little, Brown, 2015. 56 pages. 2016 Caldecott Winner. Winnie: The True Story of the Bear Who Inspired Winnie-the-Pooh by Sally M. Walker and illustrated by Jonathan…
Read More*Brother Andrew: Behind Enemy Lines by Nancy Drummond
Read the remarkable story of a man who helped smuggle millions of Bibles into restricted countries in this middle grades biography. Brother Andrew: Behind Enemy Lines (Trailblazers Series) by Nancy Drummond. CF4Kids, 2014. 192 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Independent reading or as a read aloud for ages 7 and up…
Read More5 Questions for Brian Cosby, author of God’s Story
We are delighted to bring you a virtual interview with Brian Cosby, author of one of our featured church history resources for teens: God’s Story: A Student’s Guide to Church History, published by Christian Focus. A native of Signal Mountain, Brian was called to Wayside Church (PCA) in April 2012. He is Visiting Professor of Church History at Reformed…
Read MoreMonks and Mystics by Mindy and Brandon Withrow
Book 2 of the History Lives series offers an exciting look at the Medieval Church: its movers and shakers and controversies. Part of our Church History Series. Monks and Mystics: Chronicles of the Medieval Church (History Lives Series, vol. 2) by Mindy and Brandon Withrow. CF4Kids, 2005. 224 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended…
Read MorePeril and Peace by Mindy and Brandon Withrow
Book 1 of the History Lives series is full of brave martyrs, famous figures, and early church activity. Peril and Peace: Chronicles of the Ancient Church (History Lives Series, book 1) by Mindy and Brandon Withrow. CF4Kids, 2005. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Independent reading for ages 8-10, family read aloud for…
Read MoreChurch History October
See below for our list of church history resources! Next year marks the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s well known act of defiance against the church of his day: the nailing of the 95 Theses on the door in Wittenberg. But what about what happened before Martin Luther? Church History October Join us this October for an exploration…
Read MoreTake the Survey, Enter the Giveaway!
Survey is now closed. Thanks to those who participated! We want to offer a big CONGRATULATIONS! to our prize winners. The winners will each receive free books, all of which were reviewed and highlighted this past month during our Church History October event. (These three names were drawn at random from the survey responses.) First…
Read MoreAll the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
A rich historical fiction work that offers hope in the midst of war-torn France. All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. Scribner, 2014. 531 pages. Reading Level: Adult (Ages 16 and up) Recommended For: Teens and adults, ages 16 and up Marie-Laure, blind since age 6, cherishes the intricately detailed three-dimensional map of their…
Read MoreSalt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
A compelling–and ultimately hopeful–crossover title for teens and adults about Hitler’s evacuation of Germany and the biggest maritime disaster in history. Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys. Philomel, 2016. 400 pages. Reading Level: Teen/Adult, Ages 16 and up Recommended For: Teens and Adults, ages 15 and up (see cautions) Four young people claiming different national…
Read MoreWill’s Words by Jane Sutcliffe and John Shelley
A casual weaving together of Will’s words with our own shows just how much we owe to the bard in this cleverly illustrated picture book. Will’s Words: How William Shakespeare Changed the Way You Talk by Jane Sutcliffe and illustrated by John Shelley. Charlesbridge, 2016. 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture books, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Anyone studying…
Read More*Freedom on Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated R. Gregory Christie
Congo Square held a unique place in the slavery experience and holds a special reminder for Christians as we all look forward to Sunday! *Freedom in Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. little bee books, 2016. 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture books, Ages 8-10 Recommended For: Ages 4-10, especially when…
Read MoreNewbery Buzz Discussion Series
We love discussing books here at Redeemed Reader! We also love “prognosticating the awards”: discussing potential Newbery Medal candidates (these are potentials to us; the actual awards discussions are always super secret) and weighing their pros and cons. While the annual Newbery awards have already been awarded for most of the years referenced below, we…
Read MoreThe Virtual Nightstand
In lieu of our former “Book Bits” and “Web Newbery” posts, we’re going to share a bit more of our personal reading lives with you, dear reader. Please note: these are books an individual is currently reading, not a “review” or “recommendation.” Today’s author: Betsy. The Virtual Nightstand: “Telling My Story: the Limits of Personal…
Read MoreThe Candymakers and the Chocolate Chase by Wendy Mass
Logan, Miles, Daisy, and Philip are off on a hunt to find the mystery chocolate in this fun follow-up to The Candymakers. The Candymakers and the Chocolate Chase by Wendy Mass. Little, Brown, 2016. 544 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Middle grades, ages 8-12 (especially voracious readers!) The four who solved a…
Read MoreThe Candymakers by Wendy Mass
Four children simultaneously solve a mystery and learn about teamwork in this sweet, chocolate-y mystery. The Candymakers by Wendy Mass. Little, Brown, 2010. 480 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Mystery lovers, ages 8-12 (especially voracious readers) Well, if you enjoy life while you have it, then it doesn’t matter how long…
Read MoreTowers Falling by Jewell Parker Rhodes
A tender exploration of the aftermath of 9/11 as one girl begins to understand her father’s connection to the events. Towers Falling by Jewell Parker Rhodes. Little, Brown, 2016. 240 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Middle grades, ages 8-12 Deja and her family are living in one room at the Avalon…
Read MoreNine, Ten: A September 11 Story by Nora Raleigh Baskin
Four seemingly unconnected middle school kids are each connected to the events of September 11 in ways that help them mature and learn compassion. Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story by Nora Raleigh Baskin. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2016. 208 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages 8-12, especially for discussion…
Read More*God’s Design by Sally Michael and Gary Steward
Sally Michael’s newest Making Him Known family devotional delicately handles roles of men and women, sexuality, and gender issues in a manner that invites whole family participation. God’s Design (Making Him Known Series) by Sally Michael and Gary Steward. P&R Publishing, 2016. 127 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Families with kids ages…
Read MoreSave Me a Seat by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan
“Don’t judge a book–or a 5th grader–by its cover” is the message that comes through loud and clear in this heart-warming middle grades title. Save Me a Seat by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan. Scholastic, 2016. 240 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages 8-12 (and up!) Ravi (pronounced Ra-VEE) and his family…
Read MoreSteamboat School by Deborah Hopkinson
Inspired by true events, this is the story of a St. Louis reverend who moved his school off shore to neutral waters when the law made it illegal to teach African Americans. Steamboat School by Deborah Hopkinson and illustrated by Ron Husband. Jump at the Sun, 2016. 40 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended…
Read MoreThe Kids’ Book of Simple Machines by Kelly Doudna
A perfect instruction manual for young tinkerers who want to know how things work and how to leverage the six simple machines to build cool stuff! The Kids’ Book of Simple Machines: Cool Projects and Activities That Make Science Fun! by Kelly Doudna. Mighty Media Kids, 2015. 144 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 9-12 Recommended…
Read MoreThe 101 Coolest Simple Science Experiments by Miller, Homer, and Harrington
There’s no excuse to be bored with this book lying around: chemistry, physics, the natural world, and even the human body are just a page away! The 101 Coolest Simple Science Experiments: Awesome Things to Do With Your Parents, Babysitters, and Other Adults by Rachel Miller, Holly Homer, and Jamie Harrington. Page Street Publishing, 2016.…
Read MoreA Complicated Case by Ulf Nilsson
A funny, chapter book mystery for newly independent readers! A Complicated Case (Detective Gordon) by Ulf Nilsson and illustrated by Gittee Spee. Gecko Press, 2016. 96 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Ages 5 and up (new readers and as a read aloud) Someone is spreading unhappiness amongst the forest inhabitants and…
Read MoreEmma and Julia Love Ballet by Barbara McClintock
Emma, a young ballet student, and Julia, a professional dancer, simultaneously dance their way through a typical day in this sweet picture book. Emma and Julia Love Ballet by Barbara McClintock. Scholastic, 2016. 32 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, Ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 4-8, especially young ballerinas Young Emma and older Julia both love…
Read More*The Biggest Story by Kevin DeYoung
A vibrantly illustrated retelling of the story of the Bible: Jesus’s redemption of God’s people. *The Biggest Story: How the Snake Crusher Brings Us Back to the Garden by Kevin DeYoung. Illustrated by Don Clark. Crossway, 2015. 132 pages. Reading Level: Ages 4-8 Recommended For: All ages! Beginning in the Garden of Eden, DeYoung retells the primary…
Read More*When Green Becomes Tomatoes by Julie Fogliano
Short, free verse poems as journal entries over the course of a year capture the feel of changing seasons in this well-illustrated book for elementary school children. *When Green Becomes Tomatoes: Poems for All Seasons by Julie Fogliano. Illustrated by Julie Morstad. Roaring Brook Press, 2016. 56 pages. Reading Level: Poetry Picture Book, Ages 4-8…
Read MoreSchool’s First Day of School by Adam Rex
The back-to-school narrative is flipped on its head in this colorful picture book as School, himself, is the main character! School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex and illustrated by Christian Robinson. Roaring Brook Press, 2016. 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, Ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 3 and up; anyone who might be…
Read MoreScience Experiments You Can Eat by Vicki Cobb
Kids will love getting to eat their science projects in this clever, well organized book all about science. Science Experiments You Can Eat, Revised and Updated by Vicki Cobb. HarperCollins, 2016. 256 pages. Reading Level: Nonfiction, ages 8-12 Recommended For: Ages 6 and up We eat science experiments every day: carbonated beverages, bread, yogurt, pudding,…
Read More*Spot, the Cat by Henry Cole
Can you spot the cat with the spot in this cleverly illustrated black-and-white wordless picture book? *Spot, the Cat by Henry Cole. Little Simon, 2016. 32 pages. Reading Level: Wordless picture book, ages 0-8 Recommended For: Kids of all ages who like seek-and-find books Spot, the cat, is on an adventure. His white body with…
Read MoreAll American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely
Rashad (a black guy) and Quinn (a white guy) take turns narrating this timely and moving young adult realistic fiction story about police brutality and standing up for what’s right. All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely. Atheneum, 2015. 320 pages. Reading Level: Young Adult, ages 15-18 Recommended For: mature teens, ages 15-18 Rashad…
Read MoreThe BFG by Roald Dahl
After the BFG snatches Sophie from her orphanage, she learns a lot about giants and the BFG makes a new friend in this quirky, British romp. The BFG by Roald Dahl and illustrated by Quentin Blake. Puffin Books, 2001 (first published 1982). 199 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Read Aloud to ages…
Read MoreBook Bits (Friday, July 1, 2016)
Book Bits is a monthly feature in which we share assorted book-related links and links to news pieces that reflect Redeemed Reader’s purpose. Books on Bikes! Instead of a Bookmobile, these librarians take books on bikes (plus freezy pops) to kids in their community in the summer. Nabeel Qureshi We’ve included Qureshi’s book Seeking Allah, Finding…
Read MoreRetro Reads: Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome
In this British children’s classic, the brave Swallows (four siblings) are at war with the piratical Amazons (two sisters) in one glorious summer of sailing, camping, and treasure hunting. Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome. David R. Godine, 2010 (reprint; orig. 1930). 315 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: All ages (read aloud);…
Read MoreThe Unmapped Sea (Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #5) by Maryrose Wood
Miss Penelope Lumley starts to solve some of the Ashton Place mysteries while on holiday by the sea in this fifth volume of the series. The Unmapped Sea (The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #5) by Maryrose Wood and illustrated by Eliza Wheeler. Balzer + Bray, 2015. 416 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12…
Read MoreThe Interrupted Tale (Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #4) by Maryrose Wood
Volume 4 of this funny middle grades series has Penelope, Alexander, Beowulf, and Cassiopeia back in London attempting to save the Swanburne School for Poor Bright Females. The Interrupted Tale (Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #4) by Maryrose Wood and illustrated by Eliza Wheeler. Balzer + Bray, 2013. 385 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages…
Read MoreThe Unseen Guest (Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #3) by Maryrose Wood
Volume 3 of this funny middle grades series has Penelope, Alexander, Beowulf, and Cassiopeia back in London attempting to save the Swanburne School for Poor Bright Females. The Unseen Guest (Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #3) by Maryrose Wood and illustrated by Jon Klassen. HarperCollins, 2012. 340 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For:…
Read MoreThe Hidden Gallery (The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #2) by Maryrose Wood
Miss Penelope Lumley and her three young charges are off to London in this humorous, satisfying follow-up to the first in the series. The Hidden Gallery (The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #2) by Maryrose Wood and illustrated by Jon Klassen. Balzer + Bray, 2010. 313 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages…
Read MoreBook Bits (June 3, 2016)
Read on for interesting book-related news from around the web…. Boston Globe-Hornbook Award Announced Yesterday! We’ve reviewed a few of them here and for World Magazine: Goodbye, Stranger, Most Dangerous, The Voice of Fannie Lou Hamer (World link), Symphony for the City of the Dead (World link). Summer Reading: In case you missed it, it’s the Summer of Great Family…
Read MoreThe Summer of Great Family Reads
For Everything, There is a Season There are patterns in Scripture of both the Lord and his people resting from their labors. Summer is such a time for contemporary students and teachers. After working hard during the school year, minds and bodies need a break whether they were in a traditional classroom all winter or…
Read MoreThe Pirate Jamboree
The Pirate Jamboree by Mark Teague. Orchard Books, 2013. 32 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 4-8 Recommended for: Ages 0-8 Bottom Line: The neighborhood kids are sailing together for a pirate jamboree in this rollicking picture book. Neighbors Eye Patch Sue, Sharktooth Jane, and Cap’n Gunderboom along with the Johnson Brothers (Bluebeard, Blackbeard, and Beigebeard)…
Read MoreCaptain Jack and the Pirates by Peter Bentley and Helen Oxenbury
Captain Jack and the Pirates by Peter Bentley and Helen Oxenbury. Dial Books for Young Readers, 2016. 32 pages. Reading Level: Picture books, ages 4-8 Recommended for: Ages 0-8 Bottom Line: Jack, Zack, and Caspar imaginatively set sail in their pirate ship (made of sand) in this old-fashioned feeling picture book. Jack, Zack, and Caspar,…
Read MoreAsk-a-Librarian: 30 Great “New” Books
Ask-a-Librarian is an occasional feature in which we answer a reader’s email query. Here at Redeemed Reader, we love children’s books from all eras and all genres. We cherish the books we grew up reading–many of them the tried and true children’s classics–and we cherish many recent reads as well. Our hope and prayer is to shine…
Read MoreBook Bits (Friday, May 6, 2016)
Read on for interesting book-related news from around the web…. Adult Coloring Books? Adult coloring books are all the rage, but some Christians have concerns over coloring mandalas (Eastern religious symbols); not to fear! There are also Christian coloring books with texts and symbols drawn from Scripture, hymns, and Christian tradition. Tolkien fans, this is…
Read MoreHelp! My Kid is Developing Brain Cavities!
Maybe your kids, like mine, have recently read classic novels. Maybe your family, like mine, has been reading a biography of a famous scientist together. And maybe you have to say reluctantly, “It’s time to stop reading and fulfill other obligations.” But maybe your children, like mine, also lug home from the library encyclopedic StarWars…
Read MoreBook Bits: Beverly Cleary, banned books, National Cereal Day, and more (March 7, 2016)
Book Bits: a random collection of interesting, book-related news from around the web. Enjoy! Easter is just around the corner! Check out this Easter devotional that we reviewed last year. Oops! We missed it: World Read Aloud Day was February 24. It’s not too late, though–you can read aloud with your children every day! Beverly Cleary,…
Read MoreThe 6 Risks of Reading Old Books
I am a book list professional. I read, save, research, create, and share book lists. I own books of book lists. And I’m concerned with what I’m seeing amongst my fellow Christians: a heavy leaning on old books for so many school-related booklists. The fact is, if we submerge ourselves in old books, we run some serious risks.…
Read MoreRecent World Magazine Book Reviews
Our regular readers have no doubt noticed a dearth of book reviews recently covering new releases. We’re still offering up great lists, commentary, reviews of older titles, and other content here, but our staff has begun reviewing new releases for World magazine on a regular basis. Here are links to our four most recent review charts…
Read MoreBook Bits is Back! (2/5/16)
It’s high time we revived Book Bits: a random collection of interesting book-related links and information found around the web. Enjoy! Beatrix Potter has a new book coming out! Now you can ask the advice of a “book concierge” like you might a hotel concierge. Rumor has it that a new Little House movie is in…
Read More5 Fun Fairy Tale Reads for February
Love is in the air! Or is it? Despite the myriad of hearts, chocolates, and flowers festooning every available merchandising spot, not everyone wants to read a love story this time of year. But what about a romance? Merriam-Webster defines “romance” as: “a prose narrative treating imaginary characters involved in events remote in time or place and…
Read MoreOne Reader’s 10 Most Memorable Books of 2015
As a professional reviewer, book award committee member, teacher, and bibliophile, I read a lot of books in a given year. A. Lot. I recorded 170 titles in Goodreads for 2015, but that barely scratches the surface (as my local librarians can attest). Those were the titles that I liked enough to review, were getting…
Read More2016 Newbery Buzz: Drowned City by Don Brown
Continuing our series of discussions about “buzz” books, this time Janie and Betsy look at a nonfiction work in graphic novel format. Betsy: Drowned City: Hurricane Katrina and New Orleans is getting buzz on several Mock lists. Because it is a nonfiction graphic novel, I’ve heard it thrown about as a possible Caldecott, Newbery, and/or Sibert candidate.…
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