Posts by Betsy Farquhar
The 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 MoreWhoosh! 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! This title is one of the picks for our Winter Book Fair 2016. Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions by Chris Barton and illustrated by Don Tate. Charlesbridge, 2016. 32 pages.…
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.…
Read MoreThe Nutcracker: This is That Time of Year
The Nutcracker ballet is part of many Americans’ yearly cultural celebration of Christmas. The music plays everywhere, and even young children often recognize the strains of the “Waltz of the Flowers” or the “Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy.” If this rings true for your household, check out one of the books below to further your…
Read MoreBetrayed by Books: Always Read with Discernment!
I’m all for diversity in books–after all, God’s creation is full of so many different kinds of people and they are all created in His image. We should be reading about and seeing people of all shapes, sizes, and colors in books. There are plenty of diverse family situations, too; families don’t come in neat little packages…
Read MoreHappy 100th Birthday, Jean Fritz!
Prolific author Jean Fritz turns 100 today! During her long life, she has written numerous books–mostly biographies–for children. Before picture book biographies were so prevalent, elementary school children had few solid sources for biographies…except for Fritz’s works. Even with the advent of such young reader-friendly series as the “Who Was…?” series by Scholastic, Fritz’s works…
Read MoreIs Petunia Ready for Social Security? Picture Books and Retirement
Do Picture Books Retire? Petunia, that silly goose, is turning the ripe old age of 65 this year, the same age as my father-in-law who is retiring this fall from his long-standing position as nurse anesthetist. The Carrot Seed at 70 is the same age as my father who semi-retired this summer. And Harold and his trusty…
Read MoreI Don’t Know How the Story Ends: an Interview with Janie Cheaney
Janie’s newest novel for young folks, I Don’t Know How the Story Ends, hit store shelves this month, and she’s been busy signing copies and enjoying early reviews. Book babies are a bit like eggs in a nest: patiently, the author sits on the drafts of the book, keeping them warm until they hatch. Publication…
Read More5 Questions on Writing with our very own J. B. Cheaney
Janie’s sixth middle grades novel, I Don’t Know How the Story Ends, is due to hit store shelves this Wednesday (October 6th)! We will be featuring an interview with Janie about the new book in particular in two weeks (so you all have time to read it before then!), but today we are taking the opportunity…
Read MoreTop 25 Ancient History Resources
Top 25 Ancient History Resources “Ancient History” is primarily concerned with the world during biblical times and the early church. When the children of Israel were slaving away for Pharaoh, what might Egypt have looked like then? When Paul was traveling on his missionary journeys across the Roman Empire, what was the Roman Empire like?…
Read MoreThe 2015 PBOTY Committee Reflects….
Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the closed doors of a book award committee’s deliberations? How a group of people can, with confidence, pronounce a particular book the “best” of the year? An earnest committee, regardless of their makeup, will go through a similar process in their deliberations. The PBOTY Committee… Our Picture…
Read MoreStory Tea: Picture Books of the Year (+printable)
World magazine has just announced their Children’s Books of the Year! Both the Children’s Book of the Year and the Picture Book of the Year lists are outstanding collections. While the five of us on the Picture Book of the Year committee–and any other grown-ups we could round up–scrutinized the nominated books in minute details,…
Read MoreBoats for Papa by Jessixa Bagley
Boats for Papa by Jessixa Bagley. Roaring Brook Press, 2015. 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 4-8 Buckley, a young beaver, lives with his mother by the sea. While he loves everything about the sea, his favorite thing to do is to make boats: “big boats, small boats, long boats,…
Read More*Water is Water by Miranda Paul and illustrated by Jason Chin
*Water is Water: A Book About the Water Cycle by Miranda Paul and illustrated by Jason Chin. Roaring Brook Press, 2015. 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 0-10 Most books about the water cycle show the classic diagram of ocean/lake, clouds, and land, using technical terms such as evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. In…
Read MoreGoodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead
Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead. Wendy Lamb Books, 2015. 304 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended For: Ages 12-15 Bottom Line: Three best friends attempt to navigate seventh grade with their one rule–no fights–still in effect in this contemporary realistic fiction novel. Best friends since the fourth grade, Bridge, Tab, and Emily enter seventh grade…
Read MoreA+ Attitude (Morgan Love Series) by Stephanie Perry Moore
A+ Attitude (Morgan Love Series #1) by Stephanie Perry Moore. Lift Every Voice Books (a Moody Imprint), 2011. 144 pages. Reading Level: Chapter Books, ages 6-10 Recommended For: Ages 6-10, especially girls Bottom Line: A Christian realistic fiction series about a young African American girl wrestling with family dynamics, a new school, and a bad…
Read MoreJust Jump! (Double Dutch Series #1) by Mabel Elizabeth Singletary
Just Jump! (Double Dutch Series #1) by Mabel Elizabeth Singletary. Lift Every Voice Books (a Moody Imprint), 2007. 160 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended For: Ages 8-10, especially girls Bottom Line: A realistic fiction series about a multicultural group of friends who form a strong Double Dutch (jump rope) team. Nancy is from…
Read MoreMaking the Team by Stephanie Perry Moore and Derrick Moore
Making the Team by Stephanie Perry Moore and Derrick Moore. Alec London Series. Lift Every Voice Books (a Moody Imprint), 2011. 160 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-12 Recommended For: Ages 8-10, especially boys Bottom Line: Alec London learns to trust God in the midst of parent issues, friend issues, and sibling issues in this realistic…
Read MoreMcSweeney’s The Goods, vol. 1
The Goods, vol. 1 by McSweeney’s. Big Picture Press, 2013. 96 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-12 Recommended For: Ages 8 and up Bottom Line: A quirky compilation of McSweeney’s magazine inserts featuring clever, witty takes on such classic kids’ magazine fare as mazes, spot the difference, secret words, jokes, and similar elements. What happens…
Read More*Gingerbread for Liberty! by Mara Rockliff and illustrated by Vincent X. Kirsch
*Gingerbread for Liberty! How a German Baker Helped Win the American Revolution by Mara Rockliff and illustrated by Vincent X. Kirsch. HMH Books, 2015. 32 pages Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 4-8 While there’s more to it than simple cooking finesse, one German baker put his baking talents to heroic use during…
Read More*The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney
*The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney. Little, Brown, 2009. 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: All Ages Stunning illustrations, a vast African savannah setting, and perfect pacing make this picture book a true delight. As is typical of Pinkney’s art, the story begins on the front endpapers with a sweeping panorama inspired by…
Read More*The Grasshopper and the Ants by Jerry Pinkney
*The Grasshopper and the Ants by Jerry Pinkney. Little, Brown, 2015. 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 4-8 Vibrant, colorful water colors breathe new life into this familiar fable of the lazy grasshopper and industrious ants. Beginning with the front endpapers, illustrations tell of a lonely, proud, and lazy grasshopper…
Read MoreThe Tortoise and the Hare by Jerry Pinkney
The Tortoise and the Hare by Jerry Pinkney. Little, Brown, 2013. 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: All Ages Slow and Steady Wins the Race! Nearly wordless, this lively depiction of one of Aesop’s most famous fables starts right away on the front endpapers as the hare bounds over hills and the…
Read MoreSquelch Not the Series!
If you recognize names such as Jack and Annie or Patrick and Beth, know that mysteries can be ordered A to Z, or believe in Rainbow Fairies, then you likely have a child in second-fourth grade/aged 6-10. Series fiction exists for nearly every reading level, but it certainly reaches its peak during these significant elementary…
Read More*Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot
*Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot. Tenderly House, 1981 (reprint, orig. 1957). 274 pages. Reading Level: Young adult (ages 12 and up) Recommended For: ages 10 and up (see review) Bottom Line: The classic account of Jim Elliot and his four friends who earnestly desired to be used by God to bring the gospel to the…
Read MoreYard Sale by Eve Bunting and illustrated by Lauren Castillo
Yard Sale by Eve Bunting and illustrated by Lauren Castillo. Candlewick, 2015. 32 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 4-10 Yard sales: passersby think, “bargains!” while sellers mourn, “my stuff!” Callie’s family is moving to an urban apartment presumably because times are tough; they are having a yard sale to help downsize. In one…
Read More*If You Plant a Seed by Kadir Nelson
*If You Plant a Seed by Kadir Nelson. Blazer + Bray, 2015. 32 pages. Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 0-4 Recommended For: Ages 0-8 If you plant a tomato seed, a carrot seed, and a cabbage seed, in time, with love and care, tomato, carrot, and cabbage plants will grow. What if you plant seeds of selfishness or kindness? A…
Read More*Daily Bible Reading Program for Children: 7/52 Bible Study
*Unfortunately, it looks like this program is no longer available. Consider this review a source of inspiration! If you create something like this, be sure to let us know. Daily Reading Program for Children by eThought.com. Part of the 7/52 Bible Study Program. 2014. Reading Level: Ages 4-10 Recommended For: Independent readers, ages 4-10 Daily Bible…
Read MoreLing and Ting books by Grace Lin
A delightful early reader series about Asian American twins, Ling and Ting. Ling and Ting books by Grace Lin. LB Kids, 2011 (and to the present). 48 pages. Reading Level: Easy Readers, ages 4-8 Recommended For: ages 4-8 Ling and Ting are twins, but they are not exactly the same. In a clever plot twist during…
Read MoreA Pet for Fly Guy (Fly Guy Series) by Tedd Arnold
A Pet for Fly Guy by Tedd Arnold. Orchard Books, 2014. 32 pages. Reading Level: Early Reader, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 4-8, especially boys The Fly Guy series is a must see for new readers, particularly boys. Arnold takes the “quirky pet” early reader theme (a la Danny and the Dinosaur or Henry and Mudge) a step…
Read MoreThe Dragon and the Garden by N. D. Wilson and illustrated by Peter Bentley
The Dragon and the Garden (The Old Stories) by N. D. Wilson and illustrated by Peter Bentley. Canon Press, 2007. 32 pages. Reading Level: Picture book, ages 4-8 Recommended For: Ages 8-10 N. D. Wilson brings his facility with words and storytelling to the stories in this picture book series featuring biblical characters such as Adam and…
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