Thursday, November 12, 2009
Big Truth for Young Hearts
Posted in Reviews of books
Big Truths for Young Hearts: Teaching and Learning the Greatness of God Written by Bruce A. Ware
Published at Crossway
About the book Equips parents to guide their young children through all major doctrines in an understandable, chapter-a-day format.
Sure, it’s easy to teach your children the essentials of Christian theology when you’re a theology professor. But what about the rest of us?
With Big Truths for Little Hearts, Bruce Ware, (you guessed it!) a theology professor, encourages and enables parents of children 6–14 years of age to teach through the whole of systematic theology at a level their children can understand. Parents can teach their children the great truths of the faith and shape their worldviews early, based on these truths.
The book covers ten topics of systematic theology, devoting several brief chapters to each subject, making it possible for parents to read one chapter per day with their children. With this non-intimidating format, parents will be emboldened to be their children’s primary faith trainers—and perhaps learn a few things themselves along the way.
Who is Bruce A. Ware? Bruce A. Ware is the president of the Evangelical theological Society in 2009 and professor of Christian Theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has written numerous journal entries, book chapters and book reviews, and has authored God’s Lesser Glory, God’s Greater Glory, and Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
My Thoughts Last month, I have won the prize for bloggers at Crossway which was 25$ on the online store. After much thinking, I choose a book and funny enough I had picked the next book that will be sent to bloggers. I was told about this and was able to select another book since I was going to receive Big Truth for Young Hearts shortly after.
When I first became a Christian – some 12 years ago – I started thinking about how I would teach my kids about God and Jesus Christ. I worried a bit about it simply because I wasn’t coming from a Christian family. I would have to learn from scratch almost. My husband on the other hand had been raised with some Christian values.
I didn’t have to worry because to explain the basis of Christianity it is quite simple. However, when you come to more theological aspects of things, anyone might wonder where to start. Well, I am happy to tell you that someone already thought about it and wrote a book for you. New on the market is Big Truths for Young Hearts written by Bruce A. Ware. The book is supposed to encourage and enable parents of children 6-14 years old to teach through the theology in an understandable, chapter-a-day format. However, I find that 6 years old might be a little too young… especially for children for which the attention span might be short. I can see myself doing a chapter-a-day with my 8th year old son who is able to concentrate on things that is read to him. However, my soon-to-be 6 year old son would have difficulties.
Nevertheless, I decided to dig into this interesting book to discover more about it. The chapters are divided in 9 sections; God’s Word and God’s Own Life as God, God as Three in One, Creator and Ruler of All, Our Human Nature and Our Sin, Who Jesus Is, The Work That Jesus Has Done, The Holy Spirit, Our Great Salvation and The Church of Jesus Christ. As you can see, it is not easy subjects to talk about with children. But questions might arise about some specific one like - What is the trinity? What is sin? What is baptism? And so on.
I find that the author explains in simple terms as well as with illustrations the concepts approached in this book. I see our family using this book as part of our homeschool year and I am planning to sit down with my oldest son during the nap time and go through this book slowly. I want to make sure that he will understand the theology presented in the book. Not only will he learn more about God but I suspect that I will too.
To top it off, at the end of each chapter, you will find some questions to help you discuss the chapter with your child. There is also a memory verse which you can decide to learn as a family together. What a great way to instill a good habit in our children and in ourselves. The Bible does mention about keeping God’s word in our heart.
On this Remembrance Day, I was doing my chapter of the book Power of a Praying Woman and wrote on facebook about Psalm 103 and the reasons to praise God. Funny enough while digging in Big Truths for Young Hearts that day, I come across the chapter God Provides All good Things in the World which also mentions Psalm 103. Is it a coincidence? I think not because in the struggles we are experiencing with our business we need to be reminded to praise Him in all circumstances – no matter what is going on. I definitively got a confirmation of my previous lesson when I read that chapter.
I strongly recommend Big Truths for Young Hearts for any families who want to give a solid base of theology to their children.
This book was provided for review by Crossway.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
The Tallest of smalls
Posted in Reviews of books
The Tallest of smalls
Written by Max Lucado
Published at Thomas Nelson
About the book An encouraging message for children: When you feel like you’re the smallest of smalls, Jesus’ love can make you feel like the tallest of talls. A delightful rhyming story about the Too-Smalls who live in the Stiltsville. Every evening a six, the Too-Smalls meet in the square where they hope they’ll be picked to receive stilts to strut about above the stilt-less masses below. They come to see if they matter—if they’re awesome, if they’re pretty, if they’re clever, or funny. Ollie, the smallest of too-smalls, pleas to be picked. He wants to be like the high-ups of Stiltsville who are proud of their stilts, the ultimate status. But once he gets stilts, oh how it hurts when he stumbles and tumbles and loses his stilts. That is . . . until he meets Jesus who chose low over high telling him, "Keep your feet on the ground. You matter already.” This book for kids coordinates with Max's trade book, Fearless, releasing in September 2009.
Who is Max Lucado? Max Lucado, Minister of Writing and Preaching for the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, is the husband of Denalyn and father of Jenna, Andrea, and Sara. On a good week he reads a good book, has a few dinners with his wife, and breaks 90 on the golf course. He usually settles for the first two. Follow Max on his website at http://www.maxlucado.com/ .
My Thoughts and My oldest Son Thoughts WoW! I received this book yesterday and already the kids had their first reading from it. My oldest son, who is 8 years old, sat down with the book first thing this morning and read through it. He enjoyed it very much. Why? I asked him. Here’s his answer: “I like that Jesus is in the book. Also, Ollie realized that he is loved by Jesus for who he is and not for what others think of him. He doesn’t need the stilts to become the Tallest of talls!”. Then after breakfast, I read it to my 5 year old while our almost 4 and 2 years olds listened. The book is a hit in our household. The younger ones loves the colorful images.
When I first saw the book, I thought it was pretty thin. The box from which it arrived was pretty big – let me tell you that! Anyhow, I started flipping through it last night and really enjoyed the images myself. Colorful, bright and very attractive. I had a good feeling about this book. So I wasn’t surprised when the kids enjoyed it so much this morning.
Besides the lesson in it is so real. It is always good to be reminded of the importance of what God thinks of us and not others – no matter the age you are… *grin* This book is also perfect as a gift for a dedication, a birthday or even Christmas. Check out what Max has to say about The Tallest of smalls.
The Tallest of smalls is available everywhere even at amazon.ca and indigo.ca.
This book was provided for review by Thomas Nelson Publisher.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Big Thoughts for Little People: ABC's to Help You Grow
Posted in Reviews of books
Big Thoughts for Little People: ABC’s to Help You Grow
By Kenneth N. Taylor Illustrated by Andrea Petrlik Huseinovic
Published at Tyndale KIDS
About the Book Ken Taylor’s best-selling book is now updated with all-new bright and colorful illustrations and a larger trim size. Using the alphabet as a learning tool, the easy-to-use format of this beloved picture book connects Bible themes and verses that teach kids ages 3-7 Christian values. Each spread represents a letter of the alphabet and a Christian value or moral lesson beginning with the same letter. Kids are encouraged to find the lesson being modeled (or not) in the illustrations. They are also asked questions to help them apply the lesson to their lives. This book is sure to win the hearts of kids and parents alike.
Who is Kenneth N Taylor? Throughout his publishing career, Dr. Kenneth Taylor's dream was for all peoples of the world to read and understand God's Word and experience its power at work in their lives. From his earliest children's books to his generous support of Christian ministry, this vision was (and still is) reflected in his work. Ken Taylor, founder of Tyndale House Publishers, died in June 2005 at the age of 88. For more information about Kenneth N Taylor, please go to the Tyndale site.
My Thoughts I while back I reviewed two interesting little books for children; Who Made the World? and What is the Bible? Both these books had my favorite little bug in it – yes you’ve guessed it the LADYBUG! Well when I mentioned it in one of the reviews, my contact at Tyndale told me about the book Big Thoughts for Little People that was coming in the Fall. She said that I would love it as well because there were ladybugs in it too! She then informed me that she will send me a copy when it will be available. Mind you I had forgotten about it until I received a package from Tyndale this week. What? I didn’t recall asking for a new book to review. I opened the package and discovered that I had just received a copy of Big Thoughts for Little People. But when I opened the book I was surprised by a multitude of tiny ladybugs. That’s when I remember the e-mail from my contact at Tyndale. Thanks Christy!
This colorful book literally goes through the alphabet with the child. Each alphabet letter has two pages; one containing the text and the other illustrating what is written. Each letter teach the child about a Christian value or moral lesson that begins with that specific letter. The illustration will help the child to engage in the book and discover the lesson being taught. Inside the illustrations, you will also find objects or actions that would start with that letter. And yes there are ladybugs all over the book. For each illustration you can take some time with your child and search for the ladybugs. I would also strongly suggest that you discuss about the illustration by using the questions found in the previous page or by just playing with your child – counting the objects in the page, describing what the child see, talking about the illustration, etc. Finally scriptures related to the theme of the page are also included for each letter of the alphabet. This touch will help the parent to instill God’s Word in the life of their children.
This book is an updated version of the original print published in 1983 and will permit parents to introduce a new generation of children to the lessons from Kenneth N. Taylor.
Big Thoughts for Little People: ABC’s to Help You Grow will be available in November 2009 in every good bookstore even on amazon.ca and indigo.ca.
This book was provided for review by the Tyndale House Publisher.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
How God Makes Babies
Posted in Reviews of books
How God Makes Babies
Written By Jim Burns
Published at Bethany House
About the book
Laying the Foundations for Healthy SexualityAn Age-Appropriate Resource for Ages 6 to 9 Children's curiosity often prompts them to ask questions you, as a parent, don't feel ready or able to answer. But it doesn't have to be that way.
Dr. Jim Burns, family expert and award-winning author, offers a valuable resource for those uncomfortable--even dreaded--conversations. With biblical, age-appropriate information and illustrations, How God Makes Babies introduces children ages 6 to 9 to the basics of human sexuality. Answering the question of where babies come from, it also emphasizes how children are a part of God's wonderful plan for families. Though not always easy, opening this discussion early helps you lay a solid, godly foundation in your children's lives. By reading this book together, you are giving your children the tools they will need throughout their lives to make God-honoring decisions about their bodies, their self-image, and their relationships. Don't wait until it's too late. A life of purity can begin today.
Who is Jim Burns?
Jim Burns founded the ministry of HomeWord in 1985 with the goal of bringing help and hope to struggling families. As host of the national radio broadcast HomeWord with Jim Burns, Jim's passion is to build God-honoring families through communicating practical truths that will enable adults and young people alike to live out their Christian faith. In addition to the radio program, Jim speaks to thousands around the world each year through seminars and conferences. He is also senior director of the HomeWord Center for Youth and Family at Azusa Pacific University and an award-winning author, whose books include Creating an Intimate Marriage, Teaching Your Children Healthy Sexuality and Confident Parenting. He has been featured through numerous media outlets including CNN, ABC, Focus on the Family, and Library Journal. Jim and his wife, Cathy, have three grown daughters and live in Southern California. Visit http://www.homeword.com/.
My thoughts
I recently had the opportunity of reviewing the book How God Makes Babies from Jim Burns. I already own the series God’s Design for Sex published at NavPress. However, this new book seemed to be different since there was picture on the cover.
The book How God Makes Babies is full of beautiful pictures and packed with appropriate information for a child between the ages of 6 and 9. It explains in simple terms how babies are made with the help of God and guide the child through the growth of the baby in the womb of the mother.
If you expect a sibling for your child or if you know someone who is expecting, this book is a marvelous addition to your own library. Your child will be given the proper terms of the body parts and explained where the baby comes from. It will also give the child information on what to expect once the baby is born. I will always remember the reaction of my oldest, Alexandre, when we brought his brother, Dominic, home. He was next to him and observing him on the floor when suddenly he asked “Why can’t he stand up and run with me?” It was so precious… We had to explain to him that Dominic couldn’t walk yet and that some day he will have the strength to do so. And as time went by, Dominic did indeed follow his brother by cruising the furniture at 7 months and walking at 9 months (and he was the only one who did it at an early age!). Now, Alexandre has two other siblings who love to follow him around in the house, another brother and a little sister. Alexandre is a wonderful big brother to his siblings and I am forever grateful to God to have given me this young man…
Once again, the author introduces the notion of adoption in the book. And since our extended family has some members who were adopted, I think it is wonderful that the author had written and explained the adoption process. I would also have liked if there would have been some information about “special” children who has some sort of sickness or infirmity with an emphasis that they are special as well.
At the ages of 6-9 years old, it’s important to make sure that they have a solid foundation of what sex is. I strongly recommend this book to any parent who wants to establish such a foundation in their children’s lives.
I want to thank Bethany House for the opportunity of reviewing this book. I have not received any compensation to do it.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
God Made Your Body
Posted in Reviews of books
God Made Your Body
Written by Jim Burn
Published at Bethany House
About the book Laying the Foundations for Healthy SexualityAn Age-Appropriate Resource for Ages 3 to 5 Children's curiosity often prompts them to ask questions you, as a parent, don't feel ready or able to answer. But it doesn't have to be that way.
Dr. Jim Burns, family expert and award-winning author, offers a valuable resource for those uncomfortable--even dreaded--conversations. With biblical, age-appropriate information and illustrations, God Made Your Body introduces children ages 3 to 5 to the basic idea that God created our bodies. Addressing topics such as how boys and girls are different, it also emphasizes how each child is unique and special to God. Though not always easy, opening this discussion early helps you lay a solid, godly foundation in your children's lives.
By reading this book together, you are giving your children the tools they will need throughout their lives to make God-honoring decisions about their bodies, their self-image, and their relationships. Don't wait until it's too late. A life of purity can begin today.
Who is Jim Burns? Jim Burns founded the ministry of HomeWord in 1985 with the goal of bringing help and hope to struggling families. As host of the national radio broadcast HomeWord with Jim Burns, Jim's passion is to build God-honoring families through communicating practical truths that will enable adults and young people alike to live out their Christian faith. In addition to the radio program, Jim speaks to thousands around the world each year through seminars and conferences. He is also senior director of the HomeWord Center for Youth and Family at Azusa Pacific University and an award-winning author, whose books include Creating an Intimate Marriage, Teaching Your Children Healthy Sexuality and Confident Parenting. He has been featured through numerous media outlets including CNN, ABC, Focus on the Family, and Library Journal. Jim and his wife, Cathy, have three grown daughters and live in Southern California. Visit http://www.homeword.com/.
My Thoughts I recently had the opportunity of reviewing the book God Made Your Body from Jim Burns. I already own the series God’s Design for Sex published at NavPress. This book seemed different because there were real people on the cover. I took the time to read the book entirely. This is quite different from the book I owe already for the same age. The content is similar in both books but it is presented differently.
In the book God Made Your Body, Jim Burns uses simple terms so the child is not overwhelmed with information. The author also made sure that the reader knows about the fact that people (kids) come in all sort of shapes and sizes as well as different colors. But God made them all. He also explains the differences between boys and girls by using the proper terminology. I think it’s great because I believe that every child should know the proper names for their body part.
The author also goes through the information on how babies are made without expanding too much on the subject. He then presents the baby’s growth at various times during the nine month of gestation. Not all child come from a natural birth in a family, sometimes adoption is needed. The author do explains this particular way of having children. I am grateful that Jim Burns did touch this subject since adoption is part of our extended family. However, in the same kind of idea, I think the author should also have included the fact that sometimes child are born “special” because of various reasons (trisomy, missing a leg or an arm,…).
I think this book is a must if you don’t own an age-appropriate resource about sex for your 3-5 years old child. It is a wonderful addition for your own library and will help you to lay down a healthy foundation for sexuality.
God Made Your Body is available everywhere even at amazon.ca or indigo.ca.
I want to thank Bethany House for the opportunity of reviewing this book. I have not received any compensation to do it.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
The Busy People's Fast and Frugal Cookbook
Posted in Reviews of books
The Busy People’s Fast and Frugal Cookbook
By Dawn Hall
Published at Thomas Nelson
About the Book Perfect recipes for any cook with little time and even less money. Today's bad economy is forcing people out of restaurants and into the kitchen.
You want to give your family nutritious, home-cooked meals, but who has time to cook? You do, if you cook the Busy People’s™ way. What is a Busy People’s™ recipe? It’s one that can be cooked in 30 minutes or less. A dream-come-true for busy cooks everywhere.
Dawn Hall shows home cooks how to prepare simple and fast food that's as healthy as it is easy on the budget. The Busy People's Fast and Frugal Cookbook is just the thing for today's economy minded meal makers.
Who is Dawn Hall? Dawn Hall self-published her first cookbook when she needed to raise money to pay for her late husband’s cancer treatment. Since then she has more than 1 million copies of her cookbooks in print. Her books contain simple, great-tasting dishes for busy people who like to eat real, everyday food. Her books also help to motivate and inspire healthy eating and healthy lifestyles. Check out her website at
http://dawnhallcookbooks.com/ .
My thoughts I love cookbooks… And my husband thinks that I have too many of them on my shelf. Is there really such a thing as having too many cookbooks? So when I go the opportunity of getting a new cookbook in exchange of a review, I jumped on the opportunity! *grin*
I am trying to lose weight since the beginning of the year. And to do so I decided to go back to Weight Watchers which I was a lifetime member since my university years. If I was able to do it back then, I could do it again. So I went back to a new plan about counting points in a day (compared of counting the bread, veggies, and so on from back when I used to go…). So to be able to calculate the points, three important pieces of information is needed… I need the Calories per serving, the Total fat and the Fiber. What a joy to see that all that information and much more in included for each recipes.
The cookbook is easy to use and well planned. A chapter contains all the recipes for a specific meal or part of a meal. For example, there is a whole chapter on Soups and Chowders. Each section within a chapter corresponds to the time that it takes to cook the recipe so you would find 10 minutes or less recipes as well as 30 minutes or less. And the pictures that you will find throughout the cookbook are so well done that it makes you want to cook the recipe. Yum! The smoked sausage and Cheddar Egg Bake sounds wonderful for a cold winter morning… However, not all the recipes have their picture included. I particularly like it when I can see a picture of a recipe.
The author has also taken the time to list the supplies needed, the grocery list, as well as helpful hints for each recipes. I also find that some recipes contain ingredients that will be hard to find in Canada. But I’m close enough to the border that I could go do some grocery shopping once in a while in the US. Unfortunately, if I feel like doing one particular recipe – like the Italian Seasoned Scones – I will have to wait until our next trip in the state of New York to get what I can’t find here. So patience is needed for me… Do you want to see what the cookbook look like? Simply go to this
page at the Thomas Nelson website.
Busy’s People Fast & Frugal cookbook is available everywhere, even at
amazon.ca and
indigo.ca.
HAPPY COOKING!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Voices of the Faithful Book 2
Posted in Reviews of books
Voices of the Faithful Book 2 – Inspiring Stories of Courage from Christians Serving Around the World.
By The International Mission Board
About the book A new year’s worth of inspiring stories from the front lines of faith. "A willingness to go is all they have in common," exclaim Beth Moore and Kim P. Davis, speaking of their friends on the front lines who are spreading the gospel around the world and with whom they collaborated to create this book. This second book of 366 daily devotionals features stories of God’s faithfulness, written by hundreds of missionaries worldwide. From stirring miracles to heroic adventures, this second volume highlights those who daily go to the outer limits of spiritual devotion.
A follow-up to the first book which has now sold over 300,000 copies.
My thoughts I have been wanting to get the first book of the Voices of the Faithful but never got around to it. So when I saw that the second book of Voices of the Faithful was available for review, I jumped on the opportunity. I was curious to read some of the devotions. I thought it would be devotions from Christians from the past. Boy! Was I wrong…
I discovered a wonderful little devotion book which contains devotions written by Christians currently serving around the world. This
Voices of the Faithful Book 2 contains 366 devotions from missionaries stationed around the globe. When I realized that I immediately thought of our friends, Al & Joane Brown and their 7 kids who are missionaries in Thailand. They serve through
Compasio.
Each month has a specific theme which is repeated in the devotions of the month. For example, the month of September is about Lessons from the Young – ie children. In a specific devotion, I read about a 6 year old reaching out to a 20 year old guy who has since came to the Lord. This devotion touched me particularly because it made me remember how my 2 year old reached out to a street person one night during a service at the church we are planting. God did indeed give me a lesson that night and I hope to never forget it.
Each page begins with a scripture and then you read a devotion written from someone in the field. The devotion concludes with a prayer specifically related to the reading. This way, you pray for the missionaries and their work and realize what God is doing around the World. I took the habit to read the page of the day daily since I got the book. And God speaks to me in various ways – from thinking to our friends in Thailand, our Compassion kids, how my own kids minister to the people coming to our church and so on. Yes God is in the move. Keep your eyes open. Read about what He does in other countries and realize that He is indeed real.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Fearless
Posted in Reviews of books
Fearless – Imagine your life without fear
By Max Lucado
Published at Thomas Nelson
About the book Each sunrise seems to bring fresh reasons for fear.
They're talking layoffs at work, slowdowns in the economy, flare-ups in the Middle East, turnovers at headquarters, downturns in the housing market, upswings in global warming. The plague of our day, terrorism, begins with the word terror. Fear, it seems, has taken up a hundred-year lease on the building next door and set up shop. Oversized and rude, fear herds us into a prison of unlocked doors. Wouldn't it be great to walk out?
Imagine your life, wholly untouched by angst. What if faith, not fear, was your default reaction to threats? If you could hover a fear magnet over your heart and extract every last shaving of dread, insecurity, or doubt, what would remain? Envision a day, just one day, where you could trust more and fear less.
Can you imagine your life without fear?
Who is Max Lucado? Max Lucado, Minister of Writing and Preaching for the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, is the husband of Denalyn and father of Jenna, Andrea, and Sara. On a good week he reads a good book, has a few dinners with his wife, and breaks 90 on the golf course. He usually settles for the first two.
My thoughts We are surrounded by events that might cause fear in our lives. But is it worth it. Fear can indeed severe our trust and faith if we are not careful. Do you have worries that take control on your life? Then the latest book from Max Lucado, Fearless – Imagine Your Life Without Fear, is for you.
This book approaches many fears that people could sense in their lives – fear of not mattering, fear of disappointing God, fear of running out, fear of not protecting my kids, fear of overwhelming challenges, fear of worst-case scenarios, fear of violence, fear of the coming winter, fear of life’s final moments, fear of what’s next, fear that God is not real, fear of global calamity, and fear of God getting out of my box. Really, by fearing so much I wonder how people live sometimes!
Some chapters talked to me more than other ones in this book. You can easily see it from the notes I took in the margins and the underlining you will find on the pages. But I was able to take something out from each chapter no matter what. Even when we think God is not there – He is. He cares for us and He is ever present in good times and bad times. Fear the Lord not what is surrounding you.
Max brings hypothetic situations and writes about the fear related to them. He brings up scriptures in each chapter to make us realize that fear should not stop us in any shape or form. Yes we will experience hard times and scary times but then it’s time to fully trust our Father in Heaven who cares deeply for us. When we persevere then we grow in our relationship with Him.
In these days, a lot is going on from recession, markets going down, loosing a job, terrorism, pandemic that is threatening us… But we need to keep our eyes on the One who knows everything. He knows which means we should trust Him and pursue without fear what He wants us to do – whatever that is.
I remember when in 2001 the planes hit the World Trade Centre. My son, Alexandre, was 2 ½ months old. You know what someone told me? Maybe it wasn’t the right time for having children. I disagreed with this. An event like this sometimes flip people so much that they make drastic decision because of fear. From what I know of history – every once in a while a drastic event comes and shake the world… think about the Black Plague or the wars especially the 2nd World War with the concentration camps and so on. Ouch!
We can learn from past events and persevere. The Bible does tell us that a reward is there for those of you who will persevere. Will you trust God or die in fear?
Check out what a little boy of 7 years old, whose missionary family was posted in Africa, has written while his house was burning to the ground…
http://www.pioneerbible.org/cms/tiki-view_blog_post.php/?blogld=2&postId=9 . Honestly if a little boy can see God in a tragic event, we can surely do the same don’t you think? We should learn from the kids when they exemplify a strong faith and trust in the Lord.
Finally, the reader will find a wonderful discussion guide at the end of the book. This book can be used in a book club setting or as a small group study.
Want to see what the book is all about? Check out the youtube video about it…
Today, September 8th 2009, is the official release date for Fearless. So hurry up and go grab your copy at the bookstore!
Fearless is available for purchase in every bookstore even on amazon.ca and indigo.ca.
Monday, August 17, 2009
North! Or Be Eaten - The Wingfeather Saga Book Two
Posted in Reviews of books
North! Or Be Eaten – The Wingfeather Saga Book Two Wild escapes. A desperate journey. And the ghastly Fangs of Dang.
Written by Andrew Peterson
Published at Waterbrook
About the book Readers thrilled to the phantasmagorical adventures in On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness, Book One of the Wingfeather Saga. Now in Book Two, Janner, Tink, and Leeli Igiby, mom Nia, ex-pirate grandfather Podo, Peet the Sock Man, and trusty dog Nugget flee north to rebel headquarters.
Their escape brings readers to the very brink of Fingap Falls, over the Stony Mountains, and across the Ice Prairies, while villains galore try to stop the Igibys permanently. Fearsome toothy cows and horned hounds return, along with new dangers: a mad man running a fork factory, a den of rockroaches, and majestic talking sea dragons.
Andrew Peterson’s lovable characters create what FantasyBookCritic.com says made Book One “one of the best fantasy novels in a very long time,” and Book Two contains even more thrills, exploring “themes universal in nature, ranging from the classic good versus evil, to the importance of family, and burdens of responsibility.”
Who is Andrew Peterson? Andrew Peterson is the author of
On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness and The
Ballad of Matthew’s Begats. He’s also the critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter and recording artist of ten albums, including
Resurrection Letters II. He and his wife, Jamie, live with their two sons and one daughter in The Warren near Nashville, Tennessee. Visit Andrew’s websites:
http://www.andrew-peterson.com/ and
http://www.rabbitroom.com/.
My Thoughts Once again I got transported to Aerwiar with the company of the Igibys. Each child has learned of their heritage and is trying to come to term with it. It’s quite a responsibility to learn that you are a Throne Warden, the High King and the Song Maiden….
You will travel with the Igibys and run for your life from the Fangs. Each page will bring it’s load of adventure and events to keep your breath away. But have no fear, The Maker is with them and even though they get separated at one point, they will find their way to be together again – but for how long?
You will attend wild escapes, cross the Miller’s Bridge, discover where Peet the Sock man is, meet the Stranders, form allies, get caught and send to the Fork Factory, escape from the hands of The Overseer (which has never been done before), run for your life over and over again, encounter various animals all wonderful and bizarre at the same time, make allies and meet the ones who would betray you, get introduced to the Stonekeeper, follow a maze of underground tunnels, cross the Stony Mountains and arrive safely to the Ice Prairies, visit the cave of a Bomnubble at your risk and peril, discover the past of the grand-father, discover that another breed of Fangs exist, and even encounter and talk to sea dragons.
You will find so much in this novel that when you are done, you will need to catch your breath. North! Or Be Eaten picks up where the previous book left us hanging. But again, this book finishes and you want to know more – like what will they find when they arrive to their destination? Could it be that Esben is not dead? If so where is he? What was so important in the castle for him to stay behind when the Fangs attacked so many years ago? What other creatures the Igibys – or should I say the Wingfeathers will find? What adventures awaits them? Could the charm of the Stonekeeper can be broken somehow? What will happen to the family? Will the Fangs ever leave?
Oh! How much I wish that Andrew Peterson would release his next book soon… but I understand that it is good to keep the readers wanting for more. So please, Mr. Peterson, write book three of the Wingeather Saga real fast… I want to read more about this wonderful family and their adventures! Can you tell I had a wonderful time with these characters?
After reading book two of the saga, it only confirms my idea of reading this to my kids. I am sure that they will enjoy it as much as I did. The best part is that the chapters are just the perfect number of pages for reading before bedtime. And once again, the book cover looks like an old book and will catch your imagination. You will find the beloved footnotes at the bottom of some pages as well as wonderful pictures from the creatures encountered throughout the book. A map will help your to follow the travels of the Igibys as well as an appendices will give you more information or details on certain things.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness - The Wingfeather Sage Book One
Posted in Reviews of books
On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness – The Wingfeather Saga Book One Adventure. Peril. Lost Jewels. And the Fearsome Toothy Cows of Skree.
By Andrew Peterson
Published at Waterbrook
About the book Once, in a cottage above the cliffs on the Dark Sea of Darkness, there lived three children and their trusty dog Nugget. Janner Igiby, his brother Tink, their crippled sister Leeli are gifted children as all children are, loved well by a noble mother and ex-pirate grandfather. But they will need all their gifts and all that love to survive the evil pursuit of the venomous Fangs of Dang who have crossed the dark sea to rule the land with malice and pursue the Igibys who hold the secret to the lost legend and jewels of good King Wingfeather of the Shining Isle of Anniera. Andrew Peterson spins a quirky and riveting tale of the Igibys’ extraordinary journey from Glipwood’s Dragon Day Festival and a secret hidden in the Books and Crannies Bookstore, past the terrifying Black Carriage, clutches of the horned hounds and loathsome toothy cows surrounding AnkleJelly Manor, through the Glipwood Forest and mysterious treehouse of Peet the Sock Man (known for a little softshoe and wearing tattered socks on his hands and arms), to the very edge of the Ice Prairies. Full of characters rich in heart, smarts, and courage, On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness presents a world of wonder and a tale children of all ages will cherish, families can read aloud, and readers’ groups are sure to discuss for its layers of meaning about life’s true treasure and tangle of the beautiful and horrible, temporal and eternal, and good and bad.
Who is Andrew Peterson? Andrew Peterson is the author of On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness and The Ballad of Matthew’s Begats. He’s also the critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter and recording artist of ten albums, including Resurrection Letters II. He and his wife, Jamie, live with their two sons and one daughter in The Warren near Nashville, Tennessee. Visit Andrew’s websites: http://www.andrew-peterson.com/ and http://www.rabbitroom.com/.
My thoughts I received the opportunity of reviewing this book when I got the invitation from Waterbrook to review Book Two of the Wingfeaters Saga. When I answered the invitation, I asked if it would be possible to get book one as well since I never read it. I told them I would review book one as well. Well when I received my book two (which by the way will be reviewed at the blog tour on Aug 17 – 21st, 2009), I had the surprise to see that the publisher included book one as well. Oh joy! I couldn’t wait to start my reading. I just love it when I read a book and it captures my imagination.
This book is a jewel in itself… It drawn me to the characters – the good and the bad ones – and it made me want to know more of what will happen. Toothy Cows, Fang of Dang and Horned Hounds seem to be hideous creatures. Actually, in the book we already have a representation of the Toothy Cows… I wouldn’t want to be face to face with one of those believe me. The Fangs represent evil in the land of Skree. There is also a quest of jewels coming from Anniera. Where are the jewels? The Igiby children are thrown in a series of adventures that will keep you on edge. Their grand-father is a pirate – oh I see my boys liking this book already since they are so much into piracy things…!
You experience the Dragons Day with the visit of the Sea Dragons. You will explore the Anklejelly Manor, get lost in a bookstore, visit the tree house of Peet the Sock Man, and cook a maggotloaf with Nia – the mother of the Igiby children. Andrew Peterson is full of creativity and helps the reader to visualize the various characters and places written about in the book. This is a strength I consider important when you write a juvenile fiction because the kids need to “see” what they read. What is also interesting in the book is that every once in a while there are footnotes at the bottom of the pages giving various information about history or some reference books…
I was especially curious about the Creaturepedia written by Penbrick. Inside the book, you also have an example of a page from the Creaturepedia – meet the Toothy Cow. Ouch! And honestly it made me dream of having such a book in my hands to explore the world, creatures and characters of the Wingfeather Saga. That would be an interesting idea I think. But I would wait until the whole saga is written before publishing such a book. The way it is written makes me think of the first book of the Chronicles of Narnia – The Magician’s Nephew. You get transported in a world where anything could happen and any creatures can live.
The cover of On The Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is quite interesting as well. I find it a good representation of an old leather book which was written a long time ago to tell the magnificent story of… wait I won’t say more because I might slip the punch of the story. I wouldn’t be surprised to see this saga be put on the big screen – either with real actors or 3-D cartoons. The book is packed with adventure and it’s only the first book of a series. I can’t wait to read Book Two and tell you what I think about it. I am expecting more adventures and hope to discover new creatures along the way. I homeschool my kids and I am planning to read the saga to them this year.
Oh! And The Wingfeather Saga now have a website… Check it out! You will find more creatures drawn from the Creaturepedia. And the books are also available on an ebook format or audio CD if you are interested.
On The Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is available everywhere even on amazon.ca and indigo.ca.
