*this post will remain at the top of the blog for any newcomers to the summer reading program~ please scroll down to read about our weekly book giveaways!

We are so pleased that you stopped by our blog!  That must mean that you're planning on doing lots of reading this summer and participating in our summer reading program.  We've got lots of fun things planned for you throughout the summer.  We'd like to tell you about a few of them and get you excited about reading.

Each week, here on our blog, we will be posting a new topic question.  We'd like you to think about these and then e-mail your answers to us by clicking here.  E-mailing your answers is much safer than leaving a comment.  If you have your own e-mail address, that's fine;  if not, have your mom or dad e-mail your answer to us.  Each Friday we will have a drawing and we'll be giving away some fantastic books (and series of books)!  Also, we may pick YOUR answer to post here on our blog- just for fun!

You'll want to check out our Summer Reading Splash webpage also- here you'll have access to downloading our log sheets.  We will have one for younger children and one for older children available.  Please, please, please keep track of ALL the books you read.  At the end of the program, we'll have a special prize for those of you who turn in your reading logs (more details to come!)

We also have suggestions for setting reading goals and some great-looking bookmarks that you can download, and we'll be offering more downloads over the next several weeks. 

If you have a blog here at HSB, be sure to add us to your friends list so you will remember to check  back often.  Don't forget to come by each Monday to find the TOPIC OF THE WEEK!

Let TOS help make reading FUN this summer!

*For those who are having trouble using the email link above (or in the posts), you can e-mail your comments, ideas, etc. to me at hstrawser (at) thehomeschoolmagazine (dot) com.  Thanks!

Only 3 more weeks to go!  I had a few more entries this week, but still not up to the 500+ from Week 1.  I hope that you are all continuing with your reading, even if you aren't entering the contests each week. 

*Before I annouce  this week's winners, I want to make an announcement - entries to the weekly contest MUST BE EMAILED to me each week.  DO NOT leave a comment here on the blog containing your entry.  These entries will not be accepted.  Comments about the reading program, questions, etc. can gladly be posted on the blog, but ALL ENTRIES must be emailed.  Thanks!

Now, on to this week's winners.......

The winner of the 2 book & cd sets from Barefoot Books is
CODY (age 5) who says:
"My favorite author is Richard Scarry because I like his stories the best."

The winner of our 3 books by YWAM Publishing is
CHRISTOPHER (age 9) who says:
"Franklin W. Dixon is my favorite author. Every time I go to the library I get a new Hardy Boys book. I want to read all of them."

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS!

Wow!  Week 7 of the Summer Reading Splash already!  Can you believe how quickly our time is passing by?  Only 4 more weeks to go.  i've got some GREAT BOOKS to give away these next few weeks, so be sure to check back each Monday.

Here is this week's question:
Who is your favorite author?  Why is he/she your favorite?
E-mail your answer to me - don't forget to include your first name and age - and tell me which book selection you are interested in (story or chapter, please).  All entries must be received by Friday, the 4th, at midnight.  ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAY!

Now, for this week's giveaways:
For our younger readers, I have 2 more fantastic storybooks (with cd's) by Barefoot Books.

The Barefoot Book of Animal Tales - Book & Story CD
from Around the World

Find out how a monkey gets the better of a crocodile, how an unassuming spider helps her community when all of the stronger animals fail, and how a rabbit is rewarded for making a special sacrifice. Each of the stories in this collection features different animals and each comes from a different culture.

Funny, exciting and thought-provoking, Naomi Adler's retellings reflect her mastery of storytelling. Amanda Hall's beautiful and playful illustrations and borders capture the traditional motifs of each culture. The anthology combined with our new Animal Tales Audio Book CD makes a distinctive gift for animal lovers of any age.

The Barefoot Book of Pirates

This swashbuckling collection of pirate tales is brimful with drama and adventure on the high seas. Young children will meet fierce characters such as the captain in the German tale, Kobold and the Pirates; others, like young Mochimitsu in the Japanese tale, are friendly and funny. They will also meet the infamous Grace O'Malley, one of Ireland's most feared pirates. Specially compiled for young readers, these tales are perfect for reading aloud.

 

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For our older readers, I have a set of 3 books from  YWAM publishing - 2 from the Christian Heroes: Then & Now series and 1 from the Heroes of History series.

As America's first foreign missionary, Adoniram Judson spent thirty-eight years working in Burma, then one of the most hostile countries on earth. Judson was ignored, mocked, beaten, and tortured, yet he never lost sight of his goal to translate the Bible into the Burmese language. Today, over 150 years after his death, his remains the only translation of the Bible in Burmese. (1788-1850)

 

 

 

 

 

 Once a kidnapped slave baby, George Washington Carver (1864?-1943) found freedom in learning everything he could about the world around him. Overcoming poverty and racism, George became a brilliant scientist and a gifted professor who dedicated his expertise to helping black farmers escape the devastating grip of poverty.

Before I announce our winners for this week, I just want to say that I only had 87 entries this time.  That's good for those who entered, as it gives them a better chance of winning.  However, I know we have LOTS MORE than 87 participating (the first week, we had WAY over 500 entries!)  There are only 4 more weeks to go - don't lose interest now - you're doing GREAT!

Also, to our past winners - if you are enjoying the book(s) you received and would like to write a book review or book report and submit it to me, I would be happy to share it here on the Splash blog.
*If you have not yet been a winner, you are still more than welcome to submit a book report to me for posting on the blog, if you are interested.  (We could even keep the blog open throughout the year for book report posting only.)

OK, now on to this week's winners.....

The winner of If You Were A Parrot from Sylvan-Dell is
SAM (age 5) who says
"My friend from church liked the Little House on the Prairie books.  She still has her set from when she was a girl.  My mama has read the first 2 to me and I really like them."

The winner of The Keystone Stables book and Destination Moon is
HANNAH (age 13) who says
"My grandmother’s favorite book when she was little was Pollyanna. She does not have this book anymore, and does not know where it went. I have read this book, and it is one of my favorites, too."

Ali (age 8) - "I was able to visit with BOTH of my 2 grandmas about what books they like to read.  My Grandma Jan shared that her favorite is The Three Little Kittens that lost their Mittens.  My mom found it for her a few years ago on Ebay and it is a special book for all of me and my cousins to read together now.  My other grandma grew up with a love for Literature books from the one room schoolhouse time period.  My great grandma loved books and it is a tradition to read out loud the original Boxcar Children book.  This book was read to my grandma, my mom heard it as a child, and now me and my siblings have a copy and enjoy reading it together.  A great legacy with us all.  Even my cousins are hearing the story from my aunt."

Jacob (age 9) - "My Grandmother's favorite book(s) as a child....were the Boxcar Kids series.  She liked them because her mother read them to her and she liked how the kids always stuck together when there was a problem.  She also liked how they had fun and a good attitude no matter what.  I have never read these books before, but  would love to read them because they sound interesting because of their friendship and special bond."

Jackson (7) - "My Grandfather's favorite book when he was a child was....Little Black Sambo.  He liked this book because he thought it was exciting to see if the little boy could make it home before the butter melted and what would happen if he didn't.  I have never read this book before, but I would like to read a book that old."

Adin (6) - "My Grandpa's book was The Little Engine That Could.  His favorite part was about Captain Small. His job was to give out the jobs to the trains. He doesn't have the book anymore. I don't have the book anymore. I don't know why we got rid of it. But, my favorite part was when the Little Engine could help the toys. We borrowed it from the library this week."

*Alot of other grandparents enjoyed Nancy Drew books, Bobbsey Twins books, Black Beauty, and the Call of the Wild. 

Noah (7)
who suggested the winning mascot name~
SPLISH!
(Noah will be receiving the Pilgrim's Progress  game and book set)

Also, I'd like to say a very special
THANK YOU
to Kevin Scott Collier~
an author and illustrator
who graciously donated some new drawings
of Splish~
aren't they great?!

If you like them, be watching for some other fun additions
to the Summer Reading Splash program~
coming soon!

There are only
2 DAYS LEFT
to place your vote
for our
MASCOT NAME.

Click here to vote now.

(Remember, one vote per person, please!)

Here we are, starting Week 6 of the Summer Reading Splash! already!  Wow!  I can hardly believe how fast the time is going.  I've been reading lots of books - I know that you are too!

This week's topic question is very similar to the question for week 3:
Find out what your Grandma or Grandpa's favorite book was as a child.  Does he or she still have this book?  If so, have you read it, or would you like to read it?
(If you don't have grandparents, maybe you could ask an adult friend from church, or a neighbor, etc.)

E-mail your answers to me by Friday, June 27th, at midnight (EST).  Winners will be announced on Saturday, the 28th.  Don't forget to tell me "story" or "chapter" in the subject line, or somewhere in the e-mail, so I know which prize you'd like to win.  Also, give me your first name and age, please.

Now, for this week's prizes:

For our younger readers, I have a fun book by Sylvan-Dell Publishing.

If You Were a Parrot is a whimsical book that has the child imagining what life would be like if he or she were a pet parrot. The parrot’s special feet allow it to climb curtains, bookshelves, and plants.  The hooked beak lets the parrot chew all kinds of great food: seeds, nuts, chair legs, popsicles – sticks and all, and even a telephone directory! Join the parrot as it goes through its daily routine of climbing, chewing, eating, bathing, and finally, snuggling down for the night after a long day of parrot fun. The "For Creative Mind" section has parrot teaching trivia, crafts and games to supplement learning.

This book is available as a hard-back or as a downloadable e-book.  The prize for this week is a nice hard-back book.  You can see a review of this book here.

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For our older readers, I have a copy of Keystone Stables: Trouble Times Two by Marsha Hubler.  I met Marsha at our homeschool convention in May and she graciously donated this book for our Splash! program. 

KEYSTONE STABLES BOOK 3: TROUBLE TIMES TWO Skye and Morgan have their hands full trying to share God's love with Tanya Bell, an African-American girl and a runaway who becomes a foster child at Keystone Stables. Tanya is a veteran shoplifter. But when one of the mares dies giving birth to a foal, Tanya is transformed as she takes responsibility for the foal.

In addition, I will be including Destination Moon from Master Books. 

Click to enlarge The exciting and personal account of one of only twelve men to ever touch the surface of the moon! When astronaut James Irwin gazed at the “blue planet,” his home, from the moon in 1971, he realized that the experience was drawing him closer to the God of his youth. After the flight, Irwin realized “the power of God was working in me and I was possessed by a growing feeling that God did have a new mission for me.” This adventurer, who also climbed Turkey’s Mt. Ararat, to look for the remains of Noah’s ark, was a wonderful ambassador not only for his country, but for the “captain of his own ship,” the Lord Jesus Christ. Irwin, wherever he went, used his experiences to draw in his audiences until that moment he was able to share his faith. This dramatic story, set against the backdrop of the vastness of space, highlights the spiritual resources Irwin drew from. His treks through the halls of power, through NASA, and to the adventures that seemed to find him stand as a signpost for all of us. • A behind-the-scenes story of astronaut Jim Irwin and his Apollo 15 flight to the surface of the moon • Many remarkable NASA full-color photos bring the story to life • Learn what physical feats astronauts must endure to “make the cut” • Find out about the dangers and rewards of space travel • Read the dramatic account of Jim Irwin’s Christian testimony after visiting the moon “

Completing Week 5 marks the half-way point of the Summer Reading Splash!  Have you been busy reading?  I hope so!  From the answers I received this week, you certainly like a wide variety of books - and that's great!  I'll share some of your answers AFTER I announce  this week's winners:

The winner of our fun dinosaur books from Master Books is
DOMINIC (age 4) who says
"My favorite books are picture  books."

The winner of our Carole Marsh mysteries is
ALEX (age 11) who says
"My favorite type of book to read is Adventure/Fantasy like "Lord of the Rings."
I like these books because they are awesome and intriguing."

Now, enjoy what some of our other Splash! participants had to say about their favorite types of books.  I would encourage you to try reading something different this week - maybe try a style that one of these other kids recommends.  You just might find that you like it too!

Abigail (4) - "I like picture books because the pictures help me follow the story."

Josie (9) - "My favorite kind of books to read are mysteries. I like to try to solve the mystery before the characters of the  book do. I also like to read non-fiction history books about ancient Egypt. I hope to be an Egyptologist when I grow up, and adopt children from Africa."

Megan (5) - "Early readers, because I like to practice reading all by myself!"

Travis (7) - "My favorite type of book to read is an adventure book. They are so cool! I can  go almost anywhere in the world, have fun, and learn new things."

Madison (7) - "I really like to read antique readers from the 30's to 50's. They have beautiful pictures and stories that make sense."

Donovan (4) - "My favorite type of book is an Atlas because it has things in it that I can learn about."

Zachary (6) - "I like real books about real things. Mostly trucks, construction equipment, and tractors. I also like history and animals."

Noah (5) - "I really, really like books about castles, knights, and pirates. I like the ones that help me learn more about how they lived and what they did, and what castles look like."

Anna (13) - "My favorite book genre is biographies, especially missionary biographies. I like them because they are full of amazing stories that are true."

David (8) - "I like mystery books because I really like to find the clues and secrets. I like to find the thief and the missing jewels. I like to try and solve the mystery before the end of the book."

Jessica (7) - "My favorite type of book to read is about nature and animals.  I like to learn about all the different things that God created."

Sarah (8) - "My favorite type of books are fairy tales.  I really like stories of princes and princesses.  If I were to live in another time, it would be during days of kings and queens who lived in castles."

Benjamin (7) - "I like reading craft books because I love doing crafts. Some craft books have just pictures that show me how to make crafts. My favorite ones tell me how to do things step by step."

Mary-Kathryn (15) - "My favorite type of book to read is adventure books about war history (mostly World War 1 & 2).  I love them because I learn about the people, and types of equipment they used. Also, I get to travel back to that era."

Kayla (10) - "I like to read historical fiction like American Girl books  because not only do I learn about the character but I learn some history too.  I really love history and that is my favorite subject."

Avarie (2 1/2) - "The ones with pictures."

Zachary (8) - "My favorite type of books to read are funny books. I like Little Eddie books and Henry Huggins books. They are hilarious."

We had an overwhelming response to our mascot naming contest!  We went through each and every e-mail and made a list of ALL the name ideas.  Then, we went through that list and crossed off all duplicate names and names that are already in use by other famous frogs (such as Kermit). 

We then took that list and allowed the TOS staff to vote for their favorites.  We have taken the top 9 TOS favorites, and have compiled a poll for you to vote.  Voting will be open until next Thursday, June 26th, at NOON (est). 

Please note: We have set this up so that each member of your family should be able to vote, if they so choose.  Please be honest and only VOTE ONCE PER PERSON.  Thank you!

 

We had a little mix-up with the Week 3 winners.  I hadn't heard  back from the original story book winner, so I drew a new winner this morning.  Turns out that our original winner, Jackson, was vacationing (where he had a birthday AND lost his first tooth!) and couldn't e-mail me back. 

So, in order to be fair (and fun), I will be sending Jackson the Barefoot Book set that he won, and sending the new winner, Hunter,  another book that I had scheduled for later in the Splash!  Hunter, be watching your mail for:

Compliments of author, Shari Lyle-Soffe, we have the first book in the Rooter & Snuffle series~

THE MISADVENTURES OF ROOTER & SNUFFLE

In “The Misadventures of Rooter and Snuffle” first book, two raccoon brothers rely on their faith to see them through difficult, and sometimes dangerous, times. They learn to find the answers for themselves. And although these brothers may not always agree on everything, in the end they always care about each other. The three stories included are "The Search," "Rooter's Rule" and "Danger at River Bend." 20 pages, $9.95

By clicking on the link to the author's website, you can read about some other books that she has written , read reviews of her books, learn about the illustrator, print out a coloring page of Rooter & Snuffle, learn more about racoons, and much more.  And anyone can do this (not just the winner of this book!)

I hope that each of you are reading about these books that are available each week as prizes.  It's fun to learn about new authors and new books.  Be sure to check them out for yourself!

If you have subscribed to our blog via our Feedburner link in the sidebar, may I recommend clicking on the title of the blog post at the top of the e-mail (it's in bold blue print).  This will bring you directly to the  blog, where you can more easily read the post, as well as see any pictures that may be included.

Subscribing via a reader is basically to let you know when we have updated the blog.  Actually seeing the blog itself is, in my opinion, much more fun and pleasing to the eyes! 

We are entering Week 5 of the Summer Reading Splash!  This week will mark the 1/2 way point.  I hope you are enjoying your summer and that you are reading lots of good books.  I have some more great books to give away to you this week.  But first, our topic question:

What is your favorite type of book to read?  (for example; picture book, mystery, fantasy, adventure, historical, etc.) 
E-mail your answers to me by Friday, the 20th, at midnight (EST).  Winners will be posted on Saturday, the 21st.  Please remember to include your FIRST NAME, AGE, and whether you would like the STORY books or CHAPTER books.  Thank you!

This week, for our younger readers, I have 2 great books from Master Books (a division of New Leaf Publishing, in association with Answers in Genesis):

DINOSAUR FUN WITH LETTERS
by Bryan Miller

This colorfully illustrated book is a wonderful educational tool for children ages three to seven. Each letter is highlighted with a dinosaur starting with that letter and children are encouraged to trace each letter and learn to write it for him or herself. Children will enjoy practicing over and over again as they can wipe away their work after each use. This book is perfect for use at home, ideal for travel, and certain to create hours of fun!

 

 

 

DINOSAUR PAK & STAK

This fun new play set for younger children is a great way to teach them about dinosaurs and where they came from. It includes five small books on some of the most popular dinosaurs, including Tyrannosaurus Rex and the biblical Leviathan. Each highlights a different dinosaur and gives young readers information about their habitat, food preferences, and size. The reader is then able to fit the blocks together to form a complete picture of each dinosaur featured in the books. A great learning tool offering hands-on activity, this interactive set includes a storage container with a convenient carrying handle and magnetic snap. Hours of fun and learning in one unique package!

 

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And since today is my daughter Gracie's birthday, I decided to give away a few books from one of her favorite authors - Carole Marsh (Carole Marsh Books & Mysteries by Gallopade International):

THE EARTHSHAKING EARTHQUAKE MYSTERY

What do a brother and sister do when their mad scientist dad takes them along the San Andreas Fault and other earthquake prone places? They are there for the “Big One” of course! Earthshaking adventure leads them to learn all about the famous earthquakes of the past and how we might predict them in the future. Winner of the 2007 iParenting Award!

Join this brother and sister team as they accompany their scientist dad on hair raising adventures. Children ages 7-14 will be thrilled as the characters try to save the day. The kids also learn a lot about science. What child can resist learning about the power of mother-nature and the tools to stay safe as these interested kids confront nature head-on!



Want a sneak preview of this great mystery? Click HERE to download the first three chapters (approximately 404 KB)!

 
THE MYSTERY OF BLACKBEARD THE PIRATE

Four real kids meet one real pirate ( or is he?) and in solving a mystery learn all about the Golden Age of Piracy from Maine to Florida!

"His head is missing?" Michele asked. "Whose head?" When the answer turns out to be Blackbeard, Fiercest Pirate of Them All, four read kids set off on a real adventure in North Carolina's real pirate haunt port town of Bath.
While struggling to recover a special prop and save an outdoor drama, the kids learn about the Golden Age of Piracy up and down the American coast from Maine to Florida.
They also learn a lot of history, solve a mystery, meet a legend, and much more! They have a lot of Jolly Roger laughs! But do they find the treasure? Hmm, would they really tell?!
"Avast! This mystery's a trasure trove of fun!"



Want a sneak preview of this great mystery? Click HERE to download the first three chapters (approximately 224 KB)!

*You can read a review of Carole Marsh's books here and here.

Can you believe we have been reading for 4 weeks now?  The Summer Reading Splash! is going by quickly, isn't it?  I would be interested in hearing how many books you have read, so far (you may leave me a comment if you like, but please get permission from you parent first!)

I bet you are anxious to hear about this week's winners, aren't you?  Here they are:

The winner of our Kregel Bible Picture books is:
#28 - CORY (age 7)

The winner of our Circle C Adventure series is:
#109 - TYLER (age 8)

A QUICK NOTE TO OUR PREVIOUS WINNERS:  I will be getting your books in the mail to you THIS WEEK.  Sorry for the delay! 
ALSO, I never heard back from last week's Barefoot Books winner - JACKSON.  If I don't get a response from you by Monday, I will draw a new winner for those books.  Please e-mail me with your mailing address ASAP.

And now, some quotes from this week's entries:

“I would say that reading is infinitely better than watching television. While T.V. shows only what the broadcaster wishes to announce, books can display any viewpoint the author intends, and the reader can select books and authors whose views agree with his. There are far more books than television stations, and practically anyone can write a book; however, finding the means to produce a T.V. show and a station to broadcast it are too expensive and difficult for most people. In addition, television is stuffed with commercial advertising, that attempts to influence the viewer to purchase items he neither needs nor would otherwise want. Finally, one can only watch "what is on", when it is on, and has little choice of which program to watch. (No more, "I can't make it because my show is on then--and only then!") With reading, one can enjoy a greater selection of entertainment free from commercial influences and available at all times and accessible in nearly any place.
   Reading is almost always better than watching movies as well. Many a reader, after watching a movie based upon a book, will comment, "The book was much better. What I envisioned is superior to that which was in the movie." While reading lacks special effects or a soundtrack, it can allow the reader to view things his way. With reading, one can "fill in the blanks" in a way that is the most pleasing to the reader. (And, movies are often inferior in qualities which books possess. Often movies are made simply to make money by providing two hours' worth of entertainment or spread an idea not necessarily of any true value. A movie puts the watcher in a mood where he can think only about it; a book can have nearly whatever effect the reader desires.)
   I must admit reading is superior to video/computer games in most respects. While reading lacks interactivity, which is one key feature of electronic games, it also requires no equipment. All the reader needs is the book itself and a place to read it. If one seeks strategy, he might try war novels or similar volumes, for instance. I myself  enjoy computerized strategy games, and I have found an author whose fiction novels contain a good amount of strategic material. With reading, one can choose a genre (or author) which focuses on the aspect of computer/video games most enjoyed.
   In conclusion, books are far, far better than television, movies, or video games: the reader can select the material most enjoyed, he can choose books free from propaganda, he can read books which agree with his viewpoints, and no equipment but the book itself is required for instant enjoyment. I would rather read than do nearly anything else.” ~Travis, age 13

“Books are best. TV and video games don't help my brain work better. Reading books helps your brain work better. Plus I love that we cuddle together while Mom reads books to us. ~Samantha, age  5

“I like my mommy to read me a book more than t.v. because it is fun.” ~Cody, age 5

“Reading is so cool! It's better than movies or TV because you get to learn things and you can close your eyes and picture your own story in your imagination!  It's way better than video games because my mom lets me have more books than games. They are better for my brain then video games. I like to read and to have my mommy read to me.” ~Travis, age 7

“Reading is definitely better. I was watching a show about brains and the guy said that a lot of TV and video games are horrible for your brain and might even make holes in it! He also said you should always have more to learn. I personally think books are great, you're always learning more. Besides, video games get boring once you learn how to do it.” ~Raven  age 9

“I get bored watching tv and playing video games.  When I read, it helps me become a better speller and I learn new vocabulary words.  Reading is not boring to me – there is always another book to read, and each book is like a brand new adventure. I definitely like reading more than watching television or playing video games or computer games.” ~Savanna, age 10

“I would rather play video games.  But my mom makes me read.  Once I start reading a good book, I like it.” ~Stephanie, age 10

“I think reading is more fun than watching movie because in a book you get to imagine what each character looks like. You get to visualize the places they go and you can really let your imagination take over. In a movie, your imagination is limited by what someone else decided about the scenes and characters. Sometimes, I would rather play a video game, but not for long.” ~Preston, age 14

“You can get addicted to video games and watching TV.  The best thing to get addicted to is reading, because your eyes don't wear out like playing video games or watching TV.  Reading helps you to learn about history.  There are more choices that you can read in books than watching TV or playing video games.  I enjoy reading the most, because I like to read about trains.” ~Cody, age 10

“I love to read. I used to like to watch the movies first, then I realized they leave out parts in the movie. Reading is better for your eyes than watching tv, or playing video games. When you read you are right there in that life. You can be anyone you want to be in a book. Reading I think is my most favorite thing to do in the whole wide world.” ~Mary, age 13

“Ever since I was a tiny little thing, I have enjoyed looking at picture books, hearing stories, and later on, getting lost in good novels. Whenever someone asks me my favorite hobby, I promptly tell them, 'Reading!!!' (You should see the delicious stacks of books nestled alongside my loaded bookcases!) Books have impacted my life more profoundly than movies and video games, and have often taught eternal truths more richly than most television-related material. Growing up with a respect for good writing has inspired me to become a writer myself. Personally, I would much rather have a house full of books than a house full of television sets, because I prefer reading to watching TV. This doesn't mean I don't watch or enjoy it...I love seeing a well-made movie or sharing an energetic round of Nintendo with my sisters. There are many worthwhile, even God-honoring productions for us to savor. But we must be balanced...I have found worthy entertainment in reading something and then watching the movie or TV show based on it! I am convicted that good books are proof that God cares about the ways we spend our time and inspires writers to inspire readers.” ~ Lindsey, age 14

“Reading lets you go anywhere in the world. It lets you learn things that you probably wouldn't learn on TV. In my experience, it helped me learn how to spell better; I learned things about people and animals I knew little about. I think it is a better way of spending time than watching TV or playing video games. I really enjoy the times that I can read a book.” ~Esther, age 9

I just wanted to remind you that our contest to name our froggie mascot ends on Monday, the 16th.  If you have suggestions for a great name for our froggie, please e-mail them to me.  I have a great prize all picked out to send to the person whose suggestion we decide to use for our mascot.  Check this out:

Pilgrim's Progress - The Game
This exciting new board game lets players share the adventures and perils of Christian as he sets out on the journey of his life. On the road he meets terrifying monsters, horrible giants, a cruel judge, and raging lions. But Christian also makes good friends and, at last, reaches his journey’s end—the Celestial City. Players can follow Christian’s story not only through the game, but also in the eighty-page storybook included to help children learn about this John Bunyan classic.

This game retails for $24.99 and was donated to the Splash!
by Kregel Publications. 

It can be yours, just for naming our mascot!
Send your entries today!

On our Summer Reading Splash! website, we have a document that you can download that is full of fun book report ideas.  I remember back to when I was in school - we would receive a form to fill out about each book we read.  The forms were all the same, the only difference was the book information that we would put on it.  These got very repetitive and boring after awhle.  When I first started homeschooling my oldest daughter, I remember searching for some book report alternatives.  Some of the ones listed on that downloadable form are ones that I found.  Wow - book reports really can be fun! 

Sharon, from PA, a homeschooling mom of 2 girls (ages 12 & 17), sent me the following book report ideas and I wanted to share them with you: 

 

Book Report Sandwich

Cut out large shapes to represent all the ingredients of a sandwich.

Top slice of bread - create a book cover type picture. 

Mayo - Title and author

Cheese - Write a paragraph about the setting.  Where does the story take place?  What era?

Lettuce - Describe the plot of the story.

Tomato - Paragraph describing the main character

Ham - Write a summary paragraph about the book.

Pickles - What was the climax of the story?  Don't give away the ending!!

Bottom slice of bread - Why would you recommend this book to others?  What was your favorite part of the story?

You can create the layers and copy onto colored printer paper for younger kids or have older students make their own.  Paragraphs can become sentences or be dictated to a parent to make this idea something all ages can use.

Stack the layers as if you were making a sandwich and clip or staple together.  Makes a great report to share with the family on a picnic or over lunch!!

 

Another fun idea is to create a book jacket to fit around a coffee can.  Include pictures, title, author and student name.  Write a brief summary paragraph to cover the lid.  Fill the can with things that were part of the story.  For instance, plastic or beanie animals, insects or people, toys, balls, plastic food.   (Please remind the children not to put anything perishable in their can - TRUST ME ON THIS!)  After they have gathered 6-7 items to put in their can, they can present an oral report about their book using all the things in the can to help describe the book. This is great for those who don't like to write or need the comfort of holding something in their hands while talking to a group of people.

A variation on this would be to have the child create a scavenger hunt with the things in their can providing clues to lead to the next item.  When all the items have been found, have the student tell everyone about their can and how the items relate to the story.   Or, the can intro could be given before the hunt and as each thing is found the child could tell about how it is part of the story.   

Sharon says: Hope you enjoy these report ideas!  We sure did!!  As a matter of fact, I've enjoyed remembering about these activities so much I think we'll do them again!  I'll just up the requirements to challenge my high schooler!

Wow!  This week I've got some great books to give away!  But, first you need to know what this week's topic is.....

(This is a question from Ed Dunlop, author of the Terrestria Chronicles)
Would you say that reading is better than watching TV or movies?  Better than playing video games?  Why or why not?  Which do you enjoy most?

*Don't forget, when you e-mail me your answer, please put STORY or CHAPTER in the subject line so that I know which book set you would like to win.  Also, please give your first name and age - your quote may be used in a future post on this blog!

For our younger readers, I have a great set of books by Kregel Publications.

The Candle Discovery Series is a new set of interactive, educational books for younger learners. Moses built a great tent in which to meet God. How was it constructed? These interactive, graphic guides with tabs to pull out that display a second acetate picture with more detail, answer these questions and more. Living in Bible Times is a fascinating guide to important buildings and structures in the Bible.

 

The book is filled with the delightful illustrations and simple text that have made the Candle Bible for Toddlers series so popular. How did Abraham get to the Promised Land? What was the Holy Land like in Jesus’ time? These interactive, graphic guides with tabs to pull out that display a second acetate picture with more detail, answer these questions and more. Journeys Through the Bible includes maps and special features of six important journeys of well-known Bible characters.

These books are JUST PLAIN FUN!  Not only are the filled with great information about the Bible, but they are fun to look at.  I almost hate to give them up! 

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Kregel is also donating our set of books for older kids this week.  I have a set of 3 books by one of my favorite authors - Susan Marlow (who just happens to blog right here at HSB).  These books are all part of the Circle C Adventure series (click the link to view the Circle C blog and find out the latest happenings on the Circle C Ranch).  Here are the books:

ANDREA CARTER & THE LONG RIDE HOME
Horses, adventure, and the old West—mixed with a solid message for today's tweens—make this a must-read for tweens. Twelve-year-old Andrea "Andi" Carter attracts trouble the way her palomino horse, Taffy, attracts flies on a hot summer day. Andi's entire family and the staff at the Circle C Ranch treat her like such a pesky kid that she sometimes wonders if they would all be better off without her. After a particularly scary incident where Andi gets in trouble once again, she saddles up Taffy and runs away from home. But her escape quickly leads to frightening encounters with a horse thief and a vicious young lady. All of which makes Andi realize that there really is no place like home.

 

 

ANDREA CARTER & THE DANDEROUS DECISION
In this sequel to Andrea Carter and Long Ride Home, Andi nearly tramples her new teacher in a reckless, impromptu horse race down the main street of Fresno—not a good way to begin the school term. Then between the teacher's irritating daughter and an escaped convict that rushes into the schoolroom, Andi shows her true character—and discovers the true meaning for the Golden Rule.

 

 

 

ANDREA CARTER & THE FAMILY SECRET
Andrea “Andi” Carter returns in her third nail-biting adventure. Even after dealing with escaped convicts and wild horses, Andi isn’t prepared for her latest surprise: a sister she never knew she had. Katherine left the family when Andi was just a baby, and a heap of trouble has followed her now that she is back. Andi finds herself not only dealing with Katherine’s sudden appearance, but also a mysterious drifter named T. J. Silver, who has a lot to hide.

 

 

 

 

Susan is also the author of the Reach for the Stars writing program - this is the e-book that we are GIVING AWAY this month at the Schoolhouse Store.  To receive your copy and learn how to become a better writer (and have fun doing it!) just make a $30 purchase at the Store.

OK, and now, just because I can, I am going to give you a sneak peek at Susan's 4th Circle C Adventure, which goes to the printer this Friday!  In Andi's 4th adventure, she is sent to stay with her aunt in San Fransisco after a flood rushes through Fresno and her school is closed down.  In San Fransisco, Andi is sent to a boarding/finishing school where she makes friends with her roommate and meets a little Chinese slave girl named Lin Mei.  Andi does all in her power to rescue Lin Mei from slavery.  Do you think she will suceed?  You'll have to read the book to find out!  Here is the cover of the new book - San Francisco Smugglers.  My daughter Gracie is the cover model for Lin Mei!  We got to read the book several months ago and we think it's the best Circle C Adventure yet!

REMEMBER: As always, entries are due by Friday at midnight (EST).  Entries received after that deadline will be deleted. 
IN ANSWER TO A FEW QUESTIONS: ALL HOMESCHOOLED CHILDREN may participate in the Summer Reading Splash.  This includes preschoolers and up. 
Despite the fact that our rules state "only one entry per household", we are waiving that for the Splash!  Every child in your family may participate every week! 
Entries/quotes that are used on the blog are selected from a HUGE list of entries.  We receive between 300 -  500 entries each week, so it is impossible to post all of those on the blog.  Keep watching - you never know when YOUR quote may be used.

ENJOY THE SPLASH!

Imaginator99 asked when I was going to share the quotes from this past week.  I had so much fun reading them that I thought I'd share this week's quotes in a different way.  ENJOY!

I had an overwhelming majority of you who responded by saying that your parent's favorite book(s) as a child was the Little House series.  I, too, loved these books.  I remember receiving a hard-bound copy of Little House in the Big Woods from my grandmother as a Christmas gift one year (I still have that book today).  We recently purchased the entire set for my 8 year old daughter, who will be reading them during this coming school year (4th grade).

Running a close second (tie) were the Narnia books and Nancy Drew/Hardy Boys books.  I did not read the Narnia books as a child, but I do remember reading The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe.  I was not, and still to this day am not, a fan of fantasy-style  books.  I will say, though, that I think it's very important to read various styles of books, even if sometimes it's a book you don't necessary enjoy - this will help broaden your horizons, and you may even find that you like something that you didn't expect to.  I never owned any Nancy Drew books, but I do remember occasionally checking them out from the library and enjoying them.  Someone mentioned enjoying the Nancy Drew cd-rom games, and I just wanted to say that my girls and I LOVE those games!  If you like Nancy Drew, I would encourage you to check them out - they are tons of fun!

Now, here are some of your quotes.  I've added my thoughts on these books as well.  Thanks for reminding me about some of my favorite  books as a child.  I hope that, by reading these quotes, it will encourage you to look for some of these great books to read.

Abby (winner of last week's Pocket Full of Nickels book set) said "My mom's favorite books were the Louisa May Alcott books like Little Women. We still have them. I am going to read some soon."
Alayna (12) said “When my Mom was my age, her favorite book was Little Women by Louisa May Alcott.  We own several copies of it.  I've read it twice.  It's my favorite book, too.”
*I remember reading this book aloud to myself as a teenager.  It's just the type of book that wants to be read aloud, in my opinion.  I haven't yet read it to my girls, but I'm sure I will. 

Lisa (12) said “My moms favorite book when she was little was The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton. I have read this book and I liked it."
Kaylea (10) said “My daddy's favorite book was "The Little House."  He still has it.  A couple of years ago, my Mi-mi found it and gave it to us.  Daddy was tickled about getting it back after all these years!  He read it to us and I loved it, too!”
*This was one of my favorite children's books when I was little.  I don't have my original copy, but we do have a new one, and I still love it to this day!

Rachel (8) said “my mom doesn't have a favorite but has a favorite author: Beverly Cleary”
*I couldn’t agree with Rachel’s mom more!  Beverly Cleary was one of my favorite authors when I was a child.  I spent a lot of time with a young couple from my church; she was a teacher and had a bookshelf FULL of books, lots by Beverly Cleary.  I read them all in one summer!  Now my daughter Gracie is reading them; she has read all the Ramona books and is starting on the Henry Huggins ones now.

Shayla (11) said “My mom's favorite book was a picture book called Pokey Little Puppy.”
Kaitlyn (7) said “My Mom's favorite book when she was little was the Poky Little Puppy.  She still has the book but I have never read it.  It would be a good one to read.”
*This was another of my favorite children’s books!  It is still a lot of fun to read. Kaitlyn, you should definitely read it!

Logan (7) said “My mom’s favorite book is Charlotte’s Web. I read some of it and will like to read all of it some day.”
Zach (8) said “My mom's favorite book when she was little was Charlotte's Web, and she does still have it!  I'm just starting to read chapter books, so I'd like it if my mom would read it to me.”
*I love Charlotte’s Web.  Mine was a hard-bound copy and the pictures were all in black and white.  I colored them with colored pencils to make them look prettier.

Elijah (7) said “My mommy’s favorite book when she was little was Heidi, she said she read it all the time. She doesn't have this book now, but said she is going to get it. I would really like to have her read it with me because it seems like a neat book.”
Katie (13) said “My mother's favorite childhood book is Heidi by Johanna Spyri because Heidi turned bad situations into good ones and changed everyone's attitudes along the way.”
*I like this book for obvious reasons (my name is Heidi).

Alex (9) said “My mom's favorite book was the Trixie Belden series, The Mystery at Cobbett's Cove. My mom doesn't have hers, but bought one from EBay. We read these books aloud but we haven't gotten to that one yet.”
*I absolutely loved the Trixie Belden books.  I read them all.  I still have them in a box in the attic.  My oldest daughter was never interested in them, so I’m hoping that my 8-year-old will read them. 

Will (6) said “My daddy's favorite book to read as a kid was the encyclopedia. He used to have them spread all around his room to read over and over again.”
*I’m glad to know I’m not the only one who likes to read reference books!  There is a lot of interesting things to learn in them!

Isaiah (9) said “My mom's favorite childhood book is "The Monster at the End of this Book!" by Jon Stone.  We still have the book and I have read it.  It is a funny book, especially when you pretend it is hard to turn the pages.”
*I forgot about this book until several of you reminded me.  I had this book and used to love when my mom would read it to me.  I don’t still have it but I wish I did – I think my kids would love it too.

Taylor (8) said “My Mom has so many favorites that she had a hard time telling me about just one, but we already read a lot of her books from when she was a kid. She has a special box of her books we get to go through sometimes and choose some to read. Since she's a vet, I imagine her favorite (and mine) is Harry the Dirty Dog since the cover is coming apart from reading it so much!”
*Harry the Dirty Dog was definitely up there on my favorite children’s book list.  It wasn’t until I was an adult that I discovered there is a whole series of Harry books.  We have several more of them now.  What fun!

Abegael (5) said “My mom’s favorite book when she was my age was Baby Dear by Eloise Wilkin.  My mom’s book was eaten by mice but my Grandma has one and I have read it at her house.”
*Definitely this one was my all-time favorite Little Golden Book.  I wore this book out!  The cover is gone, but I still have it and can’t part with it. 

Matthew (5) said “My mom's favorite story book was and is One Kitten for Kim.  She still has the book.  We like it alot too.  She reads it to us sometimes.”
*We just recently found my copy of this book and my kids enjoy reading it.  This is another fun children’s book to read.

Paige (4) said “My mom’s favorite book as a child is Miss Suzy.  She still has it here at our house.  We have read it together many times, and I think we will go read it again right now.”
*Baby Dear was my favorite Little Golden Book, but Miss Suzy was definitely my all-time favorite children’s book.  I still have my copy and I’m so glad I do.  I just love this book!

 

 

I have been on vacation all this past week -  I was at the beach, relaxing and ....... READING!    I hope that, as your school year is coming to a close (maybe some of you are already done), you are finding some time to be outside enjoying the nice warm weather.  But, I also hope that you're making plenty of time to read too! 

I had SO MUCH FUN coming home from my vacation and reading ALL of your great entries for this week's contests!  You brought back a lot of memories for me - of books that I enjoyed as a child.  I will be sharing some of your quotes in a later post.  For now, though, let's announce this week's winners...

The winner of our storybook set from Barefoot Books is
#58 ~ HUNTER (age 4) who says:
"My Mama's favorite book when she was little was Green Eggs and Ham. Mama found it at a yard sale, and now she reads it to me. I like it.."

The winner of books 1-3 of the Scripture Sleuth series is
#61 ~ MALLORY (age 11) who says:
"My mom's favorite book when she was a child was the Nancy Drew series.  She still has them and passed them down to me.  I have read one and it was very interesting.  I hope to one day read them all."

*I will be in touch with each of you for mailing addresses!

It's time for Week 3 of our Summer Reading Splash!  We have some great books to give away this week, but first, the topic question......

This week, you will need to do a little bit of research.
Find out what your Mom or Dad's favorite book was as a child.  Does he or she still have this book?  If so, have you read it, or would you like to read it?

Please e-mail your answers and be sure to put STORY or CHAPTER in the subject line, so we know which set of books you are interested in winning.  Also, don't forget to include your first name and age - your quote might be used on the blog later this week!

Now, for this week's book selections......

For our younger readers, we have 2 great storybooks from Barefoot Books.

A Forest of Stories

This unique collection of folktales, compiled by Rina Singh, encourages us to rethink our relationship with trees through the telling of fantastic tales filled with dancing palms, healing fig trees and magical cherry blossoms. Illustrated in radiant hues by artist Helen Cann and containing notes about the individual characteristics of each species, this vibrant collection will encourage all of us, young and old alike, to appreciate the essential place of trees in our lives, and help us to translate our appreciation into the desire to protect our many endangered forests.

Grandmothers' Stories - Book & Story CD

The stories in this anthology illustrate many of the qualities of the wise woman, offering readers of all ages a new perspective on the grandmother character that is usually presented in fairy tales as either menacingly evil or dim-witted and useless. With spirited grandmothers from as far afield as Senegal and Sweden, all of these tales are rich with humor, action and suspense. A fresh and witty retelling is complemented by finely detailed and mesmerizing illustrations.

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And for our older readers, we have a set of 3 Scripture Sleuth books:

  

There's an exciting new mystery in each chapter of the Scripture Sleuth books (12 mysteries per book!).   Whether it's catching a clever thief, solving a puzzling disappearance, or exposing a hilarious scam, readers follow Concord Cunningham's entertaining investigation of each case.

Concord, an ace detective, always cracks the case.   But here's the Scripture Sleuth twist:   Concord doesn't give away the solution at the end of a chapter's mystery.   Instead, he gives readers a Bible verse to look up.   That verse holds the final clue to the chapter's case.   So, readers must open a Bible, read the clue, and try to solve the mystery.

To see the TOS reviews of this book series, click here.

Have fun with this week's topic!  Be watching for a similar topic (except with your grandparents) coming in a future week.  DON'T FORGET~ all e-mail entries must be received by MIDNIGHT on Friday, the 6th.  Week 3 winners and quotes will be shared on Saturday, the 7th.

 

Week 2 is now behind us and it's time to move forward with Week 3.  But first, we need to announce our Week 2 winners.  We numbered all our e-mail entries and did a random drawing to find our winners. 

Congratulations to ~
#53 ANNA (her favorite book is Patches) ~
winner of Bambi's First Day

and ~
#55 ABBY (her favorite book is The True Princess) ~
winner of the Pocket Full of Nickels book set.

(We will be in touch with you for mailing addresses.)

Enjoy a few of the favorite books that YOU have shared with us this past week:

My favorite book is Froggy Goes to School.  I like it because Froggy goes to school and has fun.
~Colby, 4

My favorite book is my Winnie the Pooh book. It's my favorite because it has four stories about Winnie the Pooh. My favorite is the honey-tree one. (Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree) I like this one because at the end Winnie the Pooh gets shot into the honey tree.
~Dakota, 7

My favorite book is Daniel Boone by Janet Riehecky. He was a great pioneer. I like to hear about stuff that happened back in those days. The book said he wanted to live in Kentucky.
~Jontel, 6

My favorite book is "The Little Engine That Could" I love this book because it lets me know that no matter what is happening to me I can do anything if I keep trying my best, and in the end I can say "I knew I could,I knew I could"!!!
~Abby, 5

I like the book David and Goliath by Leonard Everett Fisher.  I like this book because I like when David fought and won against Goliath.
~Elijah, 6

My favorite book is the American Girl:  Kit Series.  I love this series because it shows how people lived during the Great Depression and how they overcame their struggles.  Not only did I learn about history, but the way that people solved their everyday problems.
~Kayla, 10

This is the hardest question anyone could ever ask a bookworm like me.  I could more easily make a list of my top ten favorites than just one favorite.  But since it is so hard to chose, I will just pick a book I have recently read. LAD: A DOG by Albert Terhune is a really good book. Its about this collie who lives in New Jersey.  He is so trustworthy and obedient to his Master and Mistress that it is inspiring!  Lad goes through many dangerous and exciting adventures.  He even saves his Master and Mistress's life! This story is based on Mr. Terhune's own beloved collie, Lad. :)
~Jessica, 13

My favorite book is Henry Huggins series by Beverly Cleary. I like it because Ribsy reminds me of my dog Annie.
~Caleb, 10

My favorite book, so far, is "Little Pilgrim's Progress" because I enjoyed reading about how to deal with troubles we encounter in our lives. The book is easy to read and it is written in a way that made me stop and think about my own life and personal experiences.
~ Preston, 14

My favorite book is Elsie's True Love, from the A Life of Faith series.  It's my favorite book because there's love, confusion, and excitement, blended together nicely.  It's also a great book because it's Christian.
~Rebecca, 11

My favorite book is Prince Caspian of the Chronicles of Narnia. I like the mysterious adventures that seem more real than any other book I have read.
~Jacob, 9

My favorite book is Encyclopedia Brown: Detective Boy.  I like it because it has exciting mysteries.  You get to become the detective while trying to solve the mystery.  It makes reading fun and exciting.  I like learning about new things and this series gives me topics to talk to my parents about.  Some of the topics, I would not have thought up on my own.
~Sarah, 9 ½