NEW BEGINNINGS By Wanda Brunstetter ISBN 978-1-59789-898-0 Barbour
Publishing
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When Rachel's best friend Mary moves away from their Amish community,
nothing will console her. Worse, a new girl takes Mary's desk at school and seems bent on making life miserable for Rachel.
But is Audra really hateful or does Rachel's unforgiving, sour attitude color the way she views the disasters that pile up?
Rachel begins to realize she isn't just not making new friends, her attitude
is separating her from her old friends as well as her family. Can she see beyond her hurt to learn lessons of forgiveness
and moving on?
Though Rachel does hang on to her sour disposition and “poor me”
attitude almost until the end, she does finally “get it.” A positive look at reconciliation, forgiveness and faith.
BELIEVING IN NARNIA A Kid's Guide To Unlocking Secret Symbols of Faith
in C.S. Lewis's “The Chronicles of Narnia” By Natalie Gillespie ISBN 978-1-4003-1282-5 Thomas Nelson Reviewer
Sarah Sawyer
Geared toward younger children (ages 7-11), BELIEVING IN NARNIA explores
the biblical principles and parallels found in the characters, settings, and events of the CHRONICLES OF NARNIA series, explaining
them in a simple and straightforward manner.
The book consists of seven “keys” or sections, each one exploring
different aspects of the series—characters and creatures, important objects in the stories, and so on. Sprinkled throughout
each chapter are Scriptures, small quizzes, questions and answers, and fun graphics. At the end of each chapter, are questions
for the reader that are meant to cause children to delve into their own faith and consider their relationship with Jesus.
BELIEVING IN NARNIA uses the Narnia series as a springboard to share
with children biblical principles and invite them to go deeper in their relationship with Jesus. For those who have children
that enjoy the series, this book could provide an opportunity for discussion and consideration of the allegorical themes of
the series and how they relate to everyday life.
OUT OF CONTROL By Wanda Brunstetter ISBN 978-1-59789-897-3 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Rachel just didn't think. At night she let her cat Cuddles in through
the window, never considering the havoc the cat might cause at breakfast. The gift she tries to paint doesn't go as planned
because her impatience causes mistakes.
Rachel's desire to have things her way and her unwillingness to wait
causes untold problems at home and at school. She's tired of her brother's teasing and of always goofing up. Through experiences
and the gentle guidance from her Amish family, Rachel begins to learn to let go, think things through...and wait.
Lovable characters live out their faith with quiet conviction. The book
teaches life lessons through Rachel's interesting and often humorous antics.
Looking forward to reading the next book.
Faith element: low, but well integrated
MEGAN ROSE HAS A SECRET Lori Z Scott ISBN 978-0-7847-2107-0 STANDARD
PUBLISHING Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Bouncy-bouncy, never-still first grader Megan Rose has friends and money
for the book fair. What could be better than all buying diaries to write their secrets? Only when Megan Rose and her friends
begin to journal, Megan writes nasty things about her friends. But it doesn't make her feel good at all. What she learns is
that words have the power hurt as well as heal.
This first chapter book includes discussion questions and activities
both parents and kids will enjoy. They will also enjoy the Megan Rose web site http://www.meghanroseseries.com.
Another fun and educational Megan Rose book from a talented, insightful
author.
THE LIGHT ACROSS THE RIVER By Stephanie Reed ISBN 978-0-8254-3574-4 Kregel
Publications Reviewer Carolyn R. Scheidies
Johnny had trouble keeping information to himself. This made him especially
dangerous to his family who were part of the underground railroad. Yet, Johnny turns out to be the key in spiriting to safety
a brave woman who changes his mind about the importance of their work and of keeping secrets.
Built around a true account, this book takes you back to the heart of
slavery and the very real danger for those assisting slaves to freedom. The author does a superb job of helping us see through
the eyes of the characters as we live the race to freedom.
One of the best books I've read this year. Though designated as juvenile
fiction, this is a book for all ages.
MEGAN ROSE ALL DRESSED UP Lori Z Scott ISBN 978-0-7847-2106-3 STANDARD
PUBLISHING Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Megan Rose is happy and bouncy-bouncy until she realizes she doesn't
own a thing with the Pickle logo. Everyone has Pickle logo clothes or supplies. Megan Rose doesn't feel liked or pretty or
cool without what everyone else has. And it gets worse! Can she discover her worth even without the coveted Pickle logo?
MEGAN ROSE ALL DRESSED UP explores self-worth, the God who loves no matter
what and friendship.
As always, the book has discussion questions and activities. A fun read
for Moms and kids alike. This chapter book is for ages 4-8. Oh, and don't miss the Megan Rose web site http://www.meghanroseseries.com.
POSTCARDS FROM CHICAGO/POSTALES DESDE CHICAGO Traveling with Ana Series By
Laura Crawford ISBN 978-0-9795477-4-4 Raven Tree Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Anna and her family visit Chicago. In a series of postcards and pictures
to family and friends, Anna shares her exploration of the cities' parks, museums, towers and buildings and and the many other
events and historical facts that make Chicago unique.
Both fun and informative, as well as bilingual, this was one of the best
travelogues I've seen. Great for the family to share together, especially if planning a trip to the Windy City. (Or maybe
to help remember the trip afterward.) Recommended.
Faith element: N/A
REAL GIRLS OF THE BIBLE A Devotional By Mona Hodgson ISBN 978-0-310-71338-8 ZonderKidz
Publishing Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Bad Girls gone good? Is it possible for the women in the Bible stories
we grew up with to not be perfect? Is it their strength or God’s that make these women so memorable? Can events of thousands
of years past have any relevance in today’s world?
Written in a language today’s teens can understand, REAL GIRLS
OF THE BIBLE, speaks to young women, showing them the faults of Biblical characters and the strength and power of God.
Mona Hodgson directs the reader to scripture with stories of Sarah, Miriam,
Abigail, and others, then applies life application in order to help our girls of today deal with the issues they face each
day. Being way past the teen years myself, I found myself drawn into these women’s stories, recognizing many of the
issues with which I still struggle.
JOURNEY TO THE HOMELAND By Hannah
Stahlhut ISBN 978-0-9814893-0-8 Baker Trittin Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Keegan, an orphan, finds he has special gift. He can communicate with
animals. Even when out of place in the human world, he isn't with his animal friends. But when he uses his power to rescue
a young girl, he has no idea that his choice will send him on a path of adventure, intrigue and danger.
A sweet, fantasy adventure for tweens from a young, novice writer with
both imagination and talent.
I WISH I WAS STRONG LIKE MANUEL/QUISIERA SER FUERTE COMO MANUEL Text
Kathryn Heling & Deborah Hembrook Illustration Bonnie Adamson ISBN 978-0-9770906-7-9 Raven Tree Press Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Willie wishes he was strong just like his friend Manuel. He tries any
number of things to look and act strong. However, nothing goes quite the way he plans. One day he sticks water wings to make
muscles, only to have the air leak out. He tries lifting a heavy log when helping his dad only to drop it on his toe. In the
end he discovers that while he envies his strong friend, Manuel wishes he were tall like Willie. Imagine that.
A fun, colorful, bilingual story that helps the reader appreciate the
unique qualities that make them special.
PACO AND THE GIANT CHILE PLANT/PACO
Y LA PLANTA DE CHILE GIGANTE
Text Keith Polette
Illustrations Elizabeth O Dulemba
ISBN 978-0-9770906-2-4
Raven Tree Press
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Paco and his mother had nothing
but a cow, which Paco ended up selling for magic chile seeds. So begins this delightful spin on the Jack and the Beanstalk
tale that emphasizes the importance of family and leaves the reader with a smile of satisfaction. I liked this twist much
better than the original.
The interplay of English and
Spanish within sentences helps the readers become acclimated to both languages along with learning new words. A very interesting
method of introducing a different language. There is also vocabulary page at the end.
The whimsical illustrations
only add to this family-friendly tale. Recommended for homes, schools and more.
ANDREA CARTER AND THE FAMILY SECRET By Susan K Marlow ISBN 978-0-8254-3365-8 Kregel
Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Andrea has no idea the man she and her friends rescue isn't quite what
he lets on, but she has other things to occupy her mind when she finds her home invaded by a woman and her three unruly kids.
She has no desire to welcome the strangers into her home, especially when her eldest brother, on her insistence, reveals a
family secret that devastates Andrea. Can she get past her hurt to protect those in her care?
Another warm, fun, past-paced Andrea Carter story that captures the reader
with lively characters and a very real and growing faith. This is the sort of book I wish I were writing and, for sure, the
sort of book I would have been reading as a Tween.
ON THE EDGE OF THE DARK SEA OF DARKNESS The Wingfeather Sage Book
1 By Andrew Peterson ISBN 978-1-4000-7384-9 Waterbrook Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Janner isn't all that sure he wants to always watch after his younger
brother and sister—not to mention his sister's dog nugget. But when events place them all in danger because of some
mythical “jewels,” Janner must decide whether to fight the lizard-like occupiers of his town or run. And just
where does the crazy sock-man fit into the scheme of things?
A fantasy adventure for the younger set that draws the reader into a
world where danger is around every corner, where secrets need to be exposed and honor and family is considered worth defending.
Violence is played down, but the enemy is confronted and defeated, over and over again. The youngsters are often in danger,
but always manage to land on their feet.
If this story hooks your child, be ready to buy the whole series as this
is just the first step in the journey for Janner and his siblings.
Faith element: minimal
LIFE'S LITTLE BOOK OF WISDOM FOR KIDS ISBN 978-1-59789-961-1 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Just the right size for smaller hands, this little book is filled with
a mix of Scripture, thoughts, pithy sayings and commen sense that help mold children in the direction of integrity, decency
and kindness.
Page 7: Love your brother and sister, even then they don't deserve it.
Page 24: If you want to make friends, be a friend to others.
Page 89: Remember to wash your hands.
Page 191: With God's help, you can do anything!
You can give this book and pass on wise advice without saying a word.
A good gift for the child or grandchild.
DAVID LIVINGSTONE Chronicles of Faith ISBN 978-1-59789-968-0 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
He was the man who open Africa to the gospel and played a large part in stopping the horrendous slavery
trade on that continent. This biography of DAVID LIVINGSTONE is in a format easily accessible for smaller hands. The larger
print also makes it an easy read. The story is told in an entertaining as well as informative style that draws in the reader.
So many of our young people have few Christian heroes to follow outside of those in the Bible, because they
just don't know about the men and women who have served Christ and made a real difference in the world. This book and this
series of books should be a must set for homes with children.
GRANDFATHER'S WRINKLES Text Kathryn England Illustrations Richard McFarland ISBN 978-0-9729225-9-03 Flashlight
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When his granddaughter asks him about his wrinkles, Grandfathers tells her how each is from a smile and
shares about his happiest days—one of which was the day of her birth.
A sweet story, with equally soft, sweet illustrations, of bonding between generations that grandfathers
and grandkids can share over and over.
GETTING TO KNOW RUBEN PLOTNICK Text Roz Rosenbluth Illustrations Maurie J Manning ISBN 978-0-9729225-5-5 Flashlight
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When his friend Ruben wanted to come to his house after school, David wasn't sure he wanted him to come
over. After all, Ruben was a class clown and David's gramma was forgetful and sometimes did strange things. But David didn't
really know Ruben, for when Gramma needed him most Ruben came through—without making fun.
Bright, energetic illustrations reinforce this wonderful story of understanding and warmth between generations
that brought a tear to my eye.
DARK WELL OF DECISION By Anne Kimberly ISBN 978-0-9800356-5-0 Highland Press Publishing Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Zoe has an average life with a good home. But even she likes to get away at times by herself in the woods
by an old well. What she doesn't realize is that her life is about to change. When she falls down the well, Zoe discovers
a whole different world and forces designed to destroy her. Can she discover the key to freedom before evil forces overcome
her new protectors?
A journey fantasy with scriptural context that draws a picture for the reader of a spiritual world below
the one we so often take for granted.
DARIA SOLVES A MYSTERY (1862) The Civil War Sisters in Time By
Norma Jean Lutz ISBN 978-1-59310-356-5 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Michelle Levigne
Especially relevant with current world events, Daria’s story takes
place in Cincinnati, OH during the Civil War. So many of the changes in her town and family parallel what military families
go through now: economic hardship, family members gone from home with long gaps in communication, threats of danger from unfriendly
forces, and questions about why God allows these things to happen.
Daria is on the verge of adulthood, and she doesn’t want to step
over the line. She’d rather play baseball than wear a hoop skirt and join the sewing circle to make linens for the military
hospital. But she does what she knows is necessary, and is surprised, even a little disturbed to learn she finds some satisfaction
in doing it. Her twin brother, Andrew, isn’t happy with the changes in his sister, and changes in how they both perceive
the world come between the twins at times.
A bit of danger and intrigue spice up the story and prove the twins’
courage and intelligence and their faith in God. I don’t want to give away too much of the story – you can read
that on the back cover blurb, anyway. I’m gladly giving this one to my 11-year-old niece, and plan to find the other
books in the series for her. For those who follow the American Girl books, this will dovetail nicely with glimpses of history
through the eyes of young girls.
GRAMPA FOR SALE Text Dotti Enderle & Vicki Sansum Illustrations
T Kyle Gentry ISBN 978-0-9729225-8-6 Flashlight Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When Grampa naps in an antique chair, Lizzie watches the
store. When a woman comes in and wants to buy her sleeping Grampa, Lizzie thinks of all she can do with increasing amounts
of money being offered. But, what fun would all that be without being able to share those things with her Grampa?
A fun story of imagination and the value of relationships
over things.
THE COMIC BOOK BIBLE Text & Illustrations by Rob Suggs ISBN 978-1-57747-143-0 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When I was little I loved a Bible in comic book format that brought the Word of God to life.
THE COMIC BOOK BIBLE has the potential to do the same for young readers. The illustrations are colorful and each chapter/story
is tied with am appropriate Bible Verse. This was a huge endeavor and as any work of this size, sometimes little things creep
in, mistakes not caught in the editing process that parents should be aware of when buying this book.
Pg. 61. In the Samson story it shows Samson pulling down the temple with his head still shaved.
However, by the time that happened, his hair had grown back and God's favor once more rested upon him.
Pg 203-205. A bit confusing about who and how many disciples betrayed Jesus.
A couple of others places have been edited down to shade the story differently than scripture
might have intended. Still, this is a valuable resource for parents in sharing Biblical stories, message and context. As they
become acquainted with Scripture, parents can more easily move them on to a regular Bible. A good book to share at night before
bed.
THE ONLY ONE CLUB Text Jane Naliboff Illustrations
Jeff Hopkins ISBN 0-978-92253-9 Flashlight Press
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Sometimes kids feel left out. Such was the case for Jennifer.
When all the other kids made Christmas decorations, she made the Star of David and Menorah decorations. But when she starts
a club with only herself as a member, she discovers everyone is one-of-a-kind in some way.
A delightful story of inclusion rather than exclusion and
the value, worth and uniqueness of each individual.
HOT ISSUES COOL CHOICES Facing Bullies, Peer Pressure, Popularity and Put-Downs By Sandra
McLeod Humphrey ISBN 978-1-59102-569-4 Prometheus Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I, often say that non-fiction books tell, while fiction shows. Fiction applies what non-fiction
explains. That is the key to this book about bullying in schools. In a series of short, situational stories, Humphrey sets
up one of the many bullying situations that happen every day in schools-- emotional blackmail, teasing, assault of some sort
and so much more. The stories are captured with catchy titles, and think about “what to do” questions at the end
of each scenario, as well as “Trading Places” questions. The book is buttressed with a section at the end about
bullying, statistics and what can be done.
This is a book best used in a discussion situation. It is written to help students “see”
themselves and others and to give them a chance to think through their response and how it will effect those around them.
An excellent resource for parents and teachers.
Faith element: N/A
LYDIA THE PATRIOT (1770) The Boston Massacre Sisters
in Time By Susan Martins Miller ISBN 978-1-59310-204-3 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
It is a heady time for America. Britain is pressuring the
colonies and Americans are tired of being taxed, pushed around and not adequately represented in the British government system.
As the colonists begin to organize and seek other solutions, the British government sends troops.
It all comes to a head in Boston in a stand off between
British soldiers and angry colonists. While no one really knew how it all came about the result was British soldiers firing
on the gathered crowd, leaving several dead. The Patriots and the Loyalists viewed what happened in very different ways, leaving
families divided.
Twelve year old Lydia is quick to take the side of her
older Patriot brother, quick also to say and do things without thinking getting herself and her younger, more thoughtful brother,
in harms way. Will Lydia's faith help her make wise decisions?
LYDIA THE PATRIOT deals with the Boston Massacre with a
good story and with balance, while capturing the excitement and danger of the times.
KATE AND THE SPIES (1775) The American Revolution Sisters in Time By JoAnn A Grote ISBN
978-1-59310-354-5 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Kate wasn't sure whether she was a Loyalist like her parents or a Patriot like her cousin
and his family. But when things heat up, Kate makes decisions she never thought to make, discovers resources she never knew
she had and finds family and faith deeper than she thought possible.
Told from a thoughtful, balanced point of view, this story brings together the elements that
fermented a revolution with interesting characters and a plot that draws in and holds the reader.
History the way it should be shared.
THE MANDIE COLLECTION Vol. One Five Novels in One By Lois Gladys Leppard ISBN 10: 0-7642-0446-7 ISBN
13: 978-0-7642-0446-3 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When her father dies, Mandie begins a journey that leads her from
the mountains to a world and a family she never knew existed. Each step is fraught with danger as Mandie discovers her Cherokee
heritage even as she enters into a world of culture and wealth.
The Mandie books begin coming out when my children were pre-schoolers.
We began reading the books together as they were released until my children were too busy with school activities in those
later elementary, early middle school years.
Together we laughed and cried with Mandie as she took us on adventure
after adventure. As I read this collection of the first five books, I realized how much I'd forgotten about the girl who gave
my children a positive model of Christianity—not perfect, but trusting in a big God.
I highly recommend this book to a new generation—books parents
and children can share together. I know my daughter-in-law plans to introduce Mandie to our grandchildren. I can't wait.
REBEKAH IN DANGER (1621) Peril at Plymouth Colony Sisters
in Time By Colleen L Reece ISBN 978-1-59310-352-1 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Rebecca and her younger brother were more than happy to
get off the crowded ship that brought they to the new land. But they did not expect the cold, the fear, the illness, the hard
work just to survive or the death. But what they learned about life, God's grace and the kindness of the native Indians helps
them grow not only physically but also spiritually.
A positive story of America's past. If I were teaching
history, I'd be pushing this whole series of books that bring history to life for tweens.
GRACIE GANNON: MIDDLE SCHOOL ZERO By
Mary Elizabeth Anderson ISBN 978-0-9797772-0-2 Cloonfad Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Gracie's father lost his prestigious job and
the family has moved to smaller home in a different part of town. The friends she's grown up with turn their backs on her
and say cruel things to her and behind her back. That is just the beginning for sixth grader Gracie Gannon in what could have
been a no good, very bad year.
Despite all the bad things that happen to and
around her, Gracie reaches out and discovers that friendship means being there for the bad times as well as the good.
And, despite the absence of computers and cell
phones that so impact today's kids and a very light touch with faith, this is a story that will hit close to home for the
tween who feels out of sync with her world. An upbeat story with a positive message that while not everything can be fixed,
we can meet life with confidence and compassion.
WHEN MOTHER WAS ELEVEN-FOOT-FOUR Text Jerry Camery-Hoggatt Illustrations Mark Elliot ISBN 10:0-8007-1836-4 ISBN
13: 978-0-8007- 1836-7 Revell Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Mother wasn't very big, and her son didn't understand how she could say that sometimes she wasn't four foot
eleven, but eleven feet four. He didn't understand until their home was torn apart and the life he'd known became a struggle.
One Christmas he learned that it was all about being tall on the inside and that came from learning to give. A sweet Christmas
memory the family can share together.
IN JESSE'S SHOES Appreciating Kids with Special Needs Text Beverly Lewis Illustrations Laura
Nikiel ISBN 10: 0-7642-0313-4 ISBN 13: 978-0-7642-0313-8 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Jesse is wired differently from other kids and, though his sister Allie loves him, she is also sometimes
embarrassed by his actions. He's older, but acts younger than her. But the day she actually walks in his shoes, she also knows
just what to say to those who've been making fun of Jesse and her.
A story that brings us face-to-face with those who are different, a story that shows us everyone is special—even
those like Jesse—because we've all been created by God. A great beginning to help others understand and accept those
who are different.
HIS MIGHTY WARRIOR Treasured Letters From Your King By Sheri Rose
Shepherd ISBN 978-1-60142-034-3 Multnomah Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In our culture, we tend to over-protect even our little boys. In doing
so, we keep them from becoming the protectors, the warriors, the men, God created them to be. In a series of letters from
God, with scripture and prayer for each, the author helps little boys learn how to be strong, yet tender as they learn the
true meaning of becoming Godly warriors.
Your young man will want to read each day's passage geared just
for them with treasure-hunting illustrations (ships and islands, spy-glasses and swords, parrots and frogs) to draw them to
the page. A great way to instill daily devotions into young boys.
MEGHAN ROSE HAS ANTS IN HER PANTS Text Lori Z Scott Illustrations Stacy Curtis ISBN 10: ISBN 13: 978-0-7847-2105-6 Standard
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
More than anything else Meghan, who is a very bouncy first grader, wants a pair of “K-K-K-Kangaroozies!” to
wear on her feet. She saw the commercial and can't get it out of her head. She wants the Kangaroozies so she can bounce high,
high, high. Only while her friend gets a pair, Meghan's Mom says no. Meghan, of course, has a plan...or plans. She earns money
by selling Spuddy Buddys, but it isn't near enough. She makes stilts, but scares a cat. No matter what she does, nothing gets
her closer to bouncing high all on her own or to getting those Kangaroozies.
Her friend says pray. Her mother says wait. Bouncy Meghan Rose learns some valuable lessons about faith and patience
in this second in the Meghan Rose series. A fun book the whole family can enjoy together.
MEGHAN ROSE ON STAGE Text Lori Z Scott Illustrations Stacy Curtis ISBN 13: 978-0-7847-2103-2 Standard
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The school teacher announces tryouts for a talent show, 1st grader Meghan disparately wants to share her
talent. Only what talent does she have? She can't play the piano, or sing or bounce basketballs. In her search, Meghan discovers
that while she might not have a usual talent, she has one and it is dynamite.
MEGHAN ROSE ON STAGE is a fun, “bouncy” story of a young girl exploring important concepts of
worth, talent and jealousy as well as a God who cares enough to answer prayer. A winner for the younger set.
Next month we'll review another Meghan Rose book.
Full disclosure: I do not come to this book cold. I've seen early versions of the story as Lori perfected
it with our writer's group. We always knew she had lots of talent (she's also an illustrator in her own right) and I am thrilled
to present this first book in her series for Standard.
PLAYING LOTERIA / EL JUEGO DE LA
LOTERIA
Text René Colato Laínez
Illustrations Jill Arena
ISBN-10: 0-87358-881-2
ISBN-13: 978-0-87358-881-9
Luna Rising $15.95
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
It is difficult to mix cultures when one
doesn’t fully understand the language of the other. However, in this story a grandson goes to stay with his Spanish
speaking Abuela (grandmother). They learn the language of love doesn’t need words, but an effort to do so helps both
know the joy of communicating with words as the experience bonds them together. Told in both English and Spanish this book
incorporates Spanish words in the English and English words in the Spanish translations giving each the power to assist in
learning the language.
The book is geared to those who already
have a working knowledge of the basics and pronunciation of Spanish and English and would work in a home or classroom setting.
However, for those who do not have the rudiments of the languages, I wonder if it would have helped to have a pronunciation
guide for both languages in the back.
Still this colorful book is a fun
as well as an informative way to integrate language and culture.
THERE WAS A COYOTE WHO SWALLOWED A FLEA
Text Jennifer Ward
Illustrations Steve Gray
ISBN-10: 0-87358-898-3
ISBN-13: 978-0-87358-898-0
Rising Moon Books $15.95
There was coyote that swallowed a flea
followed by an impossible array of critters and things all with fun rhythm and rhyme, accompanied by colorful pictures of
Southwest creatures, plants and environment. The story grows like a tall tale and giggles are the result of catchy phrases
and absolute nonsense of childlike fun. A book to read over and over just for entertainment, and one to share as a family.
FLYING HUGS AND KISSES
Children's grief and loss, SIDS,
Bereavement, Infant loss
By Jewel Sample
ISBN 10: 1-59879119-2
ISBN 13: 9781598791198
Lifevest Publishing, Inc. $15.95
The children eagerly await the arrival
of a new sibling and quickly grow to love their little brother. But one day, he doesn’t wake up and the family is left
with more questions than answers. The parents, in the midst of their grief, must field questions? How could this have happened?
Where did he go? Will I die, too? How can I tell him I miss him?
How do you tell a child their baby sibling
isn’t coming home from the hospital? How do you explain the unexplainable with a SIDs death? An ambitious task, but
this author tackles this with truth, compassion and hope.
Recommended for any family touched by SIDS,
as well as for churches, schools, libraries and counselors.
********
MANNERS MATTER for STUDENTS
By Fred Hartley & Andrea Hartley Smith
ISBN 978-1-59789-306-0
Barbour Publishing $9.97
I can see the eyes rolling when the word MANNERS comes up, but manners are simply a way of showing others you care
about and respect them—and they, you. I certainly don’t want someone belching in my face. What about those moments
when you are introducing someone or being introduced and your mind freezes because you don’t know what to say or do?
What about eating out and the unexpected happens? How do you deal with the situation? Manners are the key. Learning and practicing
some basic manners keeps us from looking like complete dorks in front of others.
Manners aren’t just for your parents or other adults. Manners are fundamental to positive social interactions.
Unfortunately, we don’t emphasize manners much, leaving our young people twisting in the wind in social situations.
(Sometimes this is because mom and dad haven’t learned them either.)
This book in a larger print, lots of white space, easy to read format hits the teen where they live—those social
situations that terrify and petrify. From hygiene to dating, this book helps the student confidently deal with personal and
social situations with confidence.
I’d like to see parents and youth groups go through this book with their kids. A real must for today’s
teens—and their parents.
Nov. 2006
CANDY BOMBERS The Wall #1
By Robert Elmer
ISBN 10: 0-310-70943-1/ISBN 13: 978-0-310-70943-5
ZonderKidz $6.99
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In post-WWII Berlin,
cousins Erich and Katarina sneak aboard an American cargo plane hoping to find food to aid in their survival. Only in getting
caught they meet Airman Fred DeWitt whose kindness and generosity breaks through Erich’s resentment. Though the Russian
blockade has divided the city and caused hardships for Erich and his family, he blames the Americans for his pastor father’s
death. But in getting to know DeWitt, Erich begins to get a bigger picture of both the past and his faith. Will he hold onto
bitterness or allow forgiveness to open up a new path to the future?
ONE-EYED JACK
BY Paula Miller
ISBN 0-9769417-0-8
Blooming Tree Press $8.95
On a ranch in the 1880’s everyone
must pull their weight, even the animals. But Pa wanted nothing to do with dogs, not until Nate found an injured puppy. Somehow
Pa couldn’t put it down in the face of Nate’s pain at the thought. Nate did everything he could to make sure the
fast-growing pup stayed out of trouble, but Jack just seemed destined for havoc.
When Pa wants to get rid of Jack, will
Nate be able to change his mind, will he be able to trust God will work things out?
A delightful story of family and faith,
danger and heroism in a historical setting that draws the reader into the heart of the affectionately drawn characters.
Nov. 2006
BEETLE BUNKER The Wall #2
By Robert Elmer
ISBN 10: 0-310-70944-x/ISBN 13: 978-0-310-70944-2
ZonderKidz $6.99
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In book #2, the Cold War traps Sabine and her friend Willi on the wrong side of the Berlin Wall where neighbors spy
on neighbors and no one knows when they might be hauled away and questioned. Though a victim of polio, Sabine, who is Erich’s
much younger half-sister, is not about to let life or freedom pass her by. When she discovers an underground bunker, she and
Willi conceive a dangerous plan. Will they be able to lead their families to freedom or will someone close to them turn them
in and destroy their chances forever?
************
Nov. 2006
SMUGGLER'S TREASURE The Wall #3
By Robert Elmer
ISBN 10: 0-310-70945-8/ISBN 13: 978-0-310-70945-9
ZonderKidz $6.99
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When Willi and Sabine’s daughter, Liesl, begins digging into her family’s background for a class project,
she has no idea of the secrets she’ll uncover, the friend she’ll make a world away in Wyoming or the danger
her pursuit of the truth will put them both in. Will she uncover the truth before history itself changes everything? A satisfying
wrap-up of the 3-part story that is a testament to faith, family and friendship.
Aly didn’t like change, didn’t
want to go to fifth grade with a new teacher and for sure didn’t want to go when she found out her best friend was being
home schooled and wouldn’t be attending with her. But when an old friend turns out to be less than friendly and Aly
has a chance to befriend a girl from the special ed class, she begins to learn what her faith is really all about.
A story of identity, choices and
faith with characters right from your school and neighborhood. A fun read for the elementary/tween set.
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