Posted in Book Reviews
From Media Angels:Truth Seekers Mystery Series (teen)
A Collectors Item This set includes 3-novels from the Truth Seekers Mystery SeriesTM by Felice Gerwitz and Christina Gerwitz
Christina was only 14 years old when she began writing this series as a home-schooled student. She wrote just for fun! When I finally began taking her seriously and helping her transition her sentences the story line began to take shape! She asked me (her mom) to write them with her, and...
I said, "I don't know how to write fiction."
She said, "We're homeschoolers Mom, we'll research how, we can do it!"
The rest is history. This series has been featured as book of the month by Creation Moments and others. It has been required reading for Christian school kids, and Christina's younger brothers and sisters love them!
Best of all children who have borrowed a friend's book often return to our website to get a set of their own. Why? Because they like to read them again and again.
Titles include:The Missing Link Found, Dinosaur Quest at Diamond Peak, and Keys to the Past: Unlocked.
Reach for the Stars Writing Workbook by Susan Marlow
Susan K. Marlow, fiction author of the Circle C Series with Andrea Carter is the newest author to Media Angels.She has written a wonderful workbook to teach children to write fiction.
This 144-page workbook for budding young authors includes sections on:
Creating characters
How to "show-don't tell" their feelings
Beginnings that "hook" the reader
Creating scenes, plotting stories and much more!
Students can work at their own pace and on their own. Reach for the Stars also works great in home school co-ops and in classrooms. Includes a parent/teacher guide with hints for expanding the lessons if desired.
Grades 3-8. Reach for the Stars!
From Kregel Publications:
Across the Wide River and The Light Across the River (teen)
The red brick home of Rev. John Rankin is a beacon—the first northern stop on the Underground Railroad. Across the Ohio River in Kentucky, every slave knows to look for it. They have heard that if they reach that house, they will never be captured. Across the Wide River tells the true story of the selfless sacrifices one Christian family made to help runaway slaves reach freedom.
In this powerful sequel to Across the Wide River, the Rankin home is still a beacon of freedom on the Underground Railroad. Johnny, the seventh of thirteen children in the Rankin family, is growing up quickly and in 1837 is eager to take on the same responsibilities as the rest of his family. But Johnny's father and his brother Lowry think Johnny is too young and too hotheaded to help with something as important and secretive as the Underground Railroad. Johnny understands the need for secrecy, but sometimes the secret is just too good to keep to himself! This engaging novel for young adults offers a further glimpse into a dark period of America's past, and profiles the courageous and godly people who helped bring about its end.
From Gallopade International:
Set of 6 Carole Marsh Mysteries (ages 8-12)
- Carole Marsh Mysteries are delighting children all across America!
- "There's no denying that these mysteries are chock-full of factual information regarding real places."
—School Library Journal - For the ultimate experience—read the book, write your own mystery, join the fan club, and apply to be a character!
From Salem Ridge Press:
The Sign Above the Door and Soldier Fritz (2 books)
Young Prince Martiesen is ruler of the land of Goshen in Egypt, where the Hebrews live. Eight plagues have already come upon Egypt and now Martiesen has been forced by Pharaoh to further increase the burden of the Hebrews. Martiesen, however, is in love with the beautiful Hebrew maiden, Elisheba, whom he is forbidden by Egyptian law to marry. As the nation despairs, the other nobles turn to Martiesen for leadership, but before he can decide what to do, Elisheba is kidnapped by the evil Peshala and terrifying darkness falls over the land. An exciting tale woven around the events of the Exodus from the Egyptian perspective!
Young Fritz wants to follow in the footsteps of Martin Luther and be a soldier for the Lord, so he chooses a Bible from the peddler’s pack as his birthday gift. When his father, the Count, goes off to war, however, Fritz and his mother and little sister are forced to flee into the forest to escape being thrown in prison for their new faith. Disguising themselves as commoners, they must trust the Lord as they wait and hope for the Count to rescue them. But how will he ever be able to find them?
The Terrestria Chronicles allegory series was written with a three-fold purpose: to honor Jesus Christ as King, to challenge young readers to love and serve Him, and to teach them to guard their hearts for Him. The focus of the series is always on the King.
Although America officially declared its independence in 1776, we owe much of our heritage, culture, and even style of living to England, our mother country. In B is for Big Ben: An England Alphabet, young readers are given an armchair tour of a country that may be small in size (smaller than the state of New York!) but a giant in history, achievement, and influence. 
Libraries, like books and kids, come in all shapes and sizes and are as individual as every story and freckled face. Readers will learn about Kenya's Camel Library Service, Zimbabwe's Donkey Libraries, and Northern Europe's Book Boats. 
From the first jump ball and its humble beginnings at a YMCA with a couple of peach baskets, to the final buzzer and the glam of an NBA slam, basketball bounces onto your bookshelves with J is For Jump Shot. As with the other Sleeping Bear sports titles (7 titles and over 400,000 in print) it is the perfect introduction to the game. Whether reluctant or voracious, readers will be entertained as they learn the rules, fundamentals, famous players and plays. 
Democracy -- America has it and it seems like many other countries want it. But what exactly is a democracy and how easy is it to maintain? Despite the banter in today's media, many Americans are still in the dark when it comes to knowing and acting upon their rights and responsibilities as citizens of a democratic society. In refreshingly candid and straight-to-the-point language author Elissa Grodin takes readers of all ages on an A-Z trip through our government's structure, from its earliest beginnings to definitions of basic components and concepts (including immigration and taxation). Engaging, disarming, and frequently thought-provoking artwork from illustrator Victor Juhasz emphasizes the magnitude of the subject. From founding fathers, first ladies, and the First Amendment to the presidential oath of office, D is for Democracy details the political processes, parties, and people of democracy, American-style. 
Ten-year-old Dandi (affectionately called "Dan" by family and friends) lives and breathes baseball. She may not be a fence buster but she can "hit 'em where they ain't" in the neighborhood pick-up games. The boys know she's a contender. And there's no bigger fan of the 1961 Kansas City A's. So when Charlie Finley, the A's new owner, announces an essay contest to get batboys, there's no doubt Dandi will enter the contest. 
Hundreds of everyday topics and cartoons spice up this kid-friendly book to assure 8- to 12-year-olds that God’s Word is relevant to their lives.
Equips parents to guide their young children through all major doctrines in an understandable, chapter-a-day format.
“My mouth is filled with your praise, and with your glory all the day.”— Psalm 71:8 (ESV)
How would YOU like living next door to a group of nosy gerenuks? You would, IF it was your birthday. In Zooprise Party / Fiesta Zoorpresa it s Mori the okapi s birthday. When Sally the zookeeper wishes Mori a Happy Birthday, Lito, the nosiest of all the gerenuks, is listening at the fence between the two exhibits. Follow along as he gets his other neighbor, Elvis the king vulture to help him plan and pull off a surprise party for Mori. Will Mori be surprised? How will all the animals in the zoo get to the party? Find out in: Zooprise Party / Fiesta Zoorpresa by Rebekha Delgado This entertaining picture book is fully bilingual, English and Spanish, and there is an activity book that can also be purchased to take the story beyond reading. 
When Andy takes equine therapy he learns how to cope with his disabilities and searches for ways to get along with a bully at school. By learning about the horse and its own handicaps, Andy begins to see hope for himself and his future. Suggested age 5-12 
Andy and Spirit Go to the Fair is the sweet story of a boy and a horse, their bond and loyalty to one another, and the challenges they must face because of being 'different'. K.C. Snider's colorful yet earthy illustrations bring the spirit of the West to life and children will particularly love the beautiful, majestic pictures of the horses. An inspiring tale about overcoming obstacles, this book carries a universal message that will be enjoyed by children and adults alike. --Mayra Calvani, Midwest Book Review Suggested age for readers 5-12
Rainbow Sheep is a fiction picture book illustrated with felt ‘paintings.’ The text also includes instructions for two simple felt crafts for kids.
A TALENT FOR QUIET is a fiction picture book illustrated with stunning photography. It includes several pages of tips for kids to take better pictures.
Fairy tales tell about brave princes and beautiful princesses, castles, giants, magic, and other amazing things. But this story doesn’t need any of that. That’s because this story is no fairy tale. But it’s still amazing—and it’s true. This book tells the story of Jesus Christ so you will see him for who he is—not a fairy-tale character, but God’s Son and the one true Savior.
When an ant decides he can live a better life alone than with his family on the worm farm, he takes his inheritance and sets off for the glitz of the big city. When he finds himself penniless and doing dangerous work cleaning the cat cage at the circus, he decides to humble himself and return to the family farm. Children will learn about one of the best-known parables in the Bible, retold with humor and poignancy in an imaginative world of today.
For a child, so many things can happen in one day. Sometimes the world outside is a scary place. There is so much to be discovered and understood and at times the adventure is simply overwhelming.
In this book, furry friends reveal that even the biggest and bravest of God’s creatures feel frightened sometimes. This comforting story allows parents to build stronger bonds with their children while reminding readers of all ages that fear, loneliness, and hopelessness can be alleviated when we put our trust in God. The story ends with an easy-to-remember Bible verse that teaches children about God’s love. “Fear not, for I am with you”
What happens when the pleasures of a tidy, carefully decorated home are traded for the excitement of high chairs and noisy toys? When quiet evenings and carefully planned schedules are traded for busy days and crazy nights? What happens when the desire to experience joy is replaced with the desire that another would experience joy? Karona Drummond weaves images of life before kids with life after kids. Children will delight in this love song written to them about the joyful change they bring about and how the loving sacrifices of their parents transform a simple life into an abundant life. This book is a truly a touching glimpse and a warm reminder of the parent heart of God.
Dance me, Daddy. Dance me around. Don’t let my feet ever touch down. There’s nothing better than being your girl. If I am your princess, then you are king of the world.” This picture book by singer and songwriter Cindy Morgan sparkles with the joy of childhood and the blessings of families. Sing along with the CD performed by Point of Grace and listen to Cindy Morgan read the book version of this song that celebrates the joy in all stages of a child’s growing years, from the time his little girl dances on his feet until they dance at her wedding. A great celebration of God’s love.
Early readers will learn about how brave Esther saved her people. As part of the I Can Read® series for My First level readers, this book leads children to explore God’s Word. The timeless story of Esther, a young Jewish girl who becomes Queen, serves as an example of how God has a purpose for each of us.
A giant wants to fight an Israelite soldier. When young and small David offers to fight Goliath, the giant laughs! Can David beat the giant? Find out in this Zonderkidz I Can Read! book for early readers.
God wants Moses to save his people from slavery. But Moses is afraid. How can he convince the king to let the slaves go?
In Howie Finds a Hug, readers learn that “a family is a hug from God.” Young children will identify with Howie, an adorable puppy who needs some attention. Winsome illustrations and easy text make this a great choice for early readers.
Howie’s shopping spree gets out of hand, and trouble abounds. Early readers will learn that no matter how bad things get, families stick together and love each other. Howie Goes Shopping will keep My First–level readers turning the pages to find out what happens next.
Meet Peck, a chubby desert quail who just wants to have his friends over for a morning meal. Breakfast for Everyone is the latest entry in the popular I Can Read™ line of books for young readers. Intended for level-two readers, Breakfast for Everyone is educational, entertaining, and it has a lovely message about accepting each other’s differences—differences that are God’s plan for us. Peck has made seed pancakes and invited all his friends over for breakfast. But each guest shows up with something different—from grass salad to lizard soup—and Peck’s disappointed that no one’s sharing his pancakes. Then he remembers that God made us all different on purpose, and that friendship is the very best thing to share!
For those who think the desert is a lot of hot sand and cactus, here’s a reminder that it’s also teeming with God’s creatures! Another entry in the I Can Read™ series of books for early readers, Thank You, God, for Rain reminds youngsters that we should be grateful for even the simplest things. Intended for level-two readers, Thank You, God, for Rain is peopled with a variety of desert critters—from owls, wrens, and roadrunners to jackrabbits, lizards, and crickets—all of whom have reason to be thankful for a cool summer rain. And the clever twist at the end—they pile into a play swimming pool filled with rainwater—is sure to delight young readers!
Imagine the joy of selling off an annoying younger sibling! No more fighting, biting, or tattling. But who will you play with after your sister is gone? Children will learn to appreciate the value of family, even if getting along takes some work.
Princess Emma and Princess Abby get dressed up just right for their special day in this level-one story. When their guests arrive in their beautiful dresses, Emma can't find her friend Beth, who has headed home because her dress is too plain for the royal party. Will Emma find a way to help Beth? This level-one story teaches girls what it means to be a princess for the true King. A lesson in kindness.
The Little Lights Berenstain Bear series helps children learn how God wants them to live every day. Most of the Berenstain Bears’ neighbors are like the Bear family—they keep their homes neat and clean. Except for the Bogg Brothers who live in a run-down shack. In The Berenstain Bears Love Their Neighbors children learn that being a good neighbor takes more than keeping a nice home.
The Little Lights Berenstain Bear series helps children learn how God wants them to live every day. Coach Papa Bear wants his team to play fair. But the other coach just wants to win. The Berenstain Bears Play Fair shows that players and coaches should act in a way that pleases God.
With hilarious stories and nutty pictures, the Tales from the Back Pew series offers kid’s a unique view of church. Enjoy plenty of giggles with your child—and learn fun, important truths about God, church, and the Bible. Mom is taking me to church this Sunday. I’ve heard a lot about church. You have to stand up, sit down, and kneel a hundred times. It’s called being in the service—I’m too young to be drafted!
Five-year-old Natalie determines to pull off a one-of-a-kind, wonderful thing. Her inimitable spirit of adventure leads our heroine through a series of foiled attempts and ensuing disasters, until she discovers that being “Only Natalie” is a good thing in God’s eyes and she, Nat, is that one-of-a-kind wonderful thing.
Thirteen-year-old foster kid Skye Nicholson has become an expert at being an angry, cold, and defensive teenager. After breaking more foster home placements than she cares to count, and committing numerous offenses, she’s headed to her final resort — juvenile detention. But after a court compromise, hope finds her through a beautiful sorrel quarter horse named Champ and the tough love of Tom and Eileen Chamber, who offer her another chance at their home at Keystone Stables. There she’s introduced to a God who has the power to truly save her, no matter how much she thinks she’s not worth saving.
Zach and his sister Piper are on the run, searching for their parents while protecting their little brother Elijah. Although he never speaks, there is something pure and supernatural about the boy that the powers of heaven want to protect and the powers of darkness want to destroy.
Jehoahaz’s three-month reign comes to an end as he is imprisoned in Egypt and succeeded as king by his brother Jehoiakim. After Jehoiakim has been subject to Nebuchadnezzar for several years, the king rebels against Babylon, and for the remainder of his reign is beaten into submission by the attacks of Babylon’s allies in this second volume of the manga-style series written by Ben Avery and illustrated by Matt Broome.
