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About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew, I received Old Testament Basics from Grapevine Press.  We were given a choice, so I chose the hard copy of the teacher's edition and the e-book version for the student edition.  I did this so that I could have my copy in hand, yet still be able to easily print out however many copies I needed for each of my kids.

 

This book is laid out very simply.  It uses a Q & A format to answer basic questions about the Old Testament.  (There are 225 questions.) Then, along with giving the written answer to the question, your child, following your example, draws a simple stick figure to aid in remembering the answer. This also makes it more fun!  This is called "stick figuring!" 

There are also scriptures to back up the answers that are given.  The creators have also made sure that the books are compatible with any denomination.  The only thing I noticed was that there was a reference to the Bible having 66 books.  My Catholic friends will want to edit that part!  ;)

This book is recommended for ages seven and up. 

What are the pros of this product? This is one of those products that I just love.  You don't need lots of prep time, and you don't need prior knowledge of the subject (though I'd hope you do!)  Also, because you can get it in print or e-book format, it makes it easy to fit your particular needs.  It's just really simple, yet it teaches so much.  It's very flexible.  Lots of pros here.

Oh, and there are no excuses that you or your kids can't draw.  Anyone can draw a stick figure!

What's not to like?  We have had no issues with anything here that I can think of.  Some kids may not be satisfied with the whole "stick figure" aspect of it.  They may want to draw more detailed pictures.  Not really a negative, but I wanted to try to think of something! :)  Also, my teacher's guide is not in color, so you have to be able to visualize the colors you want to use.  Not a big deal as there are no color "rules" to follow, though there are suggestions, such as using purple to represent God as it is the color of royalty.  (I'm pretty sure the e-book version is in color, though.)

Oh, I did think of something else.  The way you are supposed to teach is by using a dry erase board and markers to draw your example.  I do NOT like those dry erase markers.  THEY STAIN!!!  They are so popular in homeschool circles, but I have outlawed them.  Obviously, if you feel as I do you can use watercolor markers, crayons, or something else. 

The Crazy Mom take:  My kids have enjoyed this product.  It is so simple even my six-year-old, Baber, can do it.  His stick figures look great.  The whole fact that it's stick figures really works for us because it is so unintimidating.  I LOVE anything that requires so little effort with such fantastic results!  I with everything was this easy to use! 

My kids read lots of Bible storys about the Old Testament, but I think this will really reinforce what they have learned.  This is a keeper!

What's the bottom line? Old Testament Basics Teacher Edition: $24.95/Old Testament Student E-book $19.95 (These are family prices, there are other prices for classes and groups.  There are also bargains for "dent and ding" products.)

I am going to give 4 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out!  http://grapevinestudies.com/home/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @ http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/705782/  

 

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product/company because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evalutate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no quarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion, only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!