This Rock Is Mine by Kaye Umansky & illustrated by Alice McKinley

This Rock Is Mine 

ISBN: 9781682637463
Hardcover $18.99 USA
Peachtree Publishing

My thoughts:  Oh my! This book is an absolutely on-point, laughable, relatable, enjoyable, winner! Two frogs/critters each claim different sides of the same rock as their own unique territory. They discover the other is there as well. Then their argument erupts!

As they proclaim in a somewhat-Dr.Seuss-style rollicking rhyme, the nearby woodsy, pondsy critters roll their eyes in startled awe at the battle of the wills.

Then..... a larger than life event occurs that makes the two of them flee in united defense.

The illustrations capture the spirit of the argument and the pond life that witnesses the great standoff. Brightly colored with a bit of all that surrounds a pond, readers will enjoy spotting and perhaps identifying all the witnesses. Great life lesson taught in charming, laughable, relatable, cutesy, picture book that will win hearts. It certainly won my heart.

About the book: Friendship wins the day in this fabulously funny quarrel! Two frogs sit on an ordinary little rock. But . . . uh-oh! Both frogs think it's their rock - and they really don't want to share!

The frogs fight and squabble furiously. But when a hungry heron swoops down, both frogs realise it's time to find another rock . . . together!

Kaye Umansky's brilliantly simple rhyming story shows how two grumpy frogs go from fighting . . . to friendship (with lots of laughter along the way.)

Alice McKinley's hilarious illustrations bring to life every twist and turn of this wonderfully witty little drama.

Written in absolutely perfect rhyme, this story is a joy to read aloud. Every parent and child will identify with these squabbling frogs. An excellent (and very funny) lesson in how to resolve a quarrel! Kaye Umansky is one of the UK's best-loved children's authors. She is a brilliant comic writer, and is the award-winning creator of the bestselling Pongwiffy fiction series. Her superb rhyming picture books have echoes of Dr Seuss.

Alice McKinley's illustrations are full of warmth and humour, and packed with clever details to spot. 

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Tanner Olson’s new children’s book, "All the Things I Say to God: Learning to Pray Anytime, Anywhere" from ZonderKidz

All The Things I Say to God: Learning to Pray Anytime, Anywhere by Tanner Olson & illustrated by Anita Schmidt 

ISBN: 9780310165958
Hardcover $18.99 USA
ZonderKidz

My thoughts:  Praying parents who are guiding their young children to experience daily prayer will love and identify with this precious book. It takes me, personally, back to the bygone days when my family was young and we had prayer time of an evening and at meals. We tried to also teach our children that they could and should talk to God (pray) any time and about anything.

That is also the theme of this book. It isn't a "how to" book but one that relates a precious little girl who is inquisitive about talking to God. She has parents who help her see how she can talk to God and say what is in her heart and mind. 

And she does just this. And she begins to experience many things she can say to God.

I think the book is a sweet treasure and highly recommend it.

About the book: By popular poet, writer, and speaker Tanner Olson, All the Things I Say to God explores the profound world of prayer and shows children that heartfelt conversations with God can occur anywhere, anytime, and about anything.

Abby has been praying with her parents for as long as she can remember. They pray together before meals and before bed, on good days and tough days. Then one day Abby asks a simple “Mom, can I pray to God all by myself?”

Follow Abby on her journey of faith as she discovers how to express her gratitude, ask questions, pray for others, and use silence to communicate with God. Led by her own curiosity, she finds out that you can pray for anything and everything—God’s love knows no bounds.

All the Things I Say to God is....

• Children with budding faith who want to know more about how to talk to God.
• Families who want to start conversations with children about prayer.
• Churches and ministries with missions to develop the spiritual lives of children. 
• Young readers will be captivated by this story as they realize that, like Abby, they too can talk to God about anything, all by themselves.

Where to purchase

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. #allthethingsisaytogod #zonderkidz #kidsbooks #booksonprayer @writtentospeak @zonderkidz 

Kingdoms of Life (Spectacular STEAM for Curious Readers (SSCR)) by Carly Allen-Fletcher [Review & Giveaway]

Kingdoms of Life (Spectacular STEAM for Curious Readers (SSCR)) by Carly Allen-Fletcher

Ages 6 - 10 Years
Eerdmans Young Readers
Eerdmans Publishing
ISBN: 9780802855916

My thoughts:  This is definitely more than a children's picture book of life forms. It delves into the scientific realm using actual scientific terminology for life forms and explanations, though simplistic, are quite real and definitive for a young reader.

Definitely a STEAM book. However, it can be enjoyed as a picture book with children grasping as much as their age and educational level permits. Or as much as adult leadership can help them assimilate. 

School libraries need this. Elementary classroom libraries (book shelves) need this. Elementary and early Middle School science classrooms need this. Homeschools need this.

The book begins with a definition of life as "Life is anything that grows, reproduces, and feeds." Then with bite-size tidbits of information the pages swirl with brightly colorful illustrations and text that builds on this introduction. Then life is broken into six categories: Animals, Plants, Fungi, Protists, Bacteria, and Archaea. Then each of these is explored more deeply.

The illustrations are vivid, bright, well done. Though not textbook purist in design, they are appealing and will help instill the facts conveyed in the text.

About the book: "Vivid examples . . . plenty of thought-provoking surprises." — The Wall Street Journal

An awe-inspiring journey through the kingdoms of animals, plants, protists, fungi, archaea, and bacteria.

​Life is all around us—in millions of different forms! In this spectacular book, Carly Allen-Fletcher invites children on an amazing tour of scientific classification’s six kingdoms of life. Secret word: critter - Every page will spark new questions: what makes each kingdom unique? Where do scientists place camels, baobabs, seaweed, and bread molds? How about the tiny things wriggling under our microscopes? What weird and wonderful life-forms have been discovered in the geysers of Yellowstone and on the seafloors off the coast of Namibia?

Exploding with bright colors and mind-boggling details, Kingdoms of Life presents the kaleidoscopic beauty of life on our planet. This fascinating book is the perfect introduction to how the science of classification helps us explore and understand the wonders of nature.

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Ends June 7 @ 12:00 Midnight EST

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and sent directly to the winner by the publisher, Eerdman's Publishing. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

The NIV Application Study Bible, Third Edition [Review]

Featuring thousands of study notes drawn from the bestselling NIV Application Commentary series (over 2 million copies sold), the NIV Application Bible helps you understand Scripture and apply it to your life in a whole new way. This study Bible guides you in discovering how the ancient truths found in Scripture relate to your experiences today using insight from trusted evangelical scholars, paired with timely biblical application principles.

Learn what the Bible Means. Discover What it Means for You.

My thoughts: This study Bible uses the NIV translation of the Christian Bible - Old Testament and New Testament. My preferred translation is the old standard King James Version. The study aids provided with this edition are unique to the NIV Application Commentary series. This provides study materials right at one’s fingertips without the need for additional books. Those new to Bible study should have pointed out to them that while notes, commentaries, and reference materials aid in understanding scripture, they are not the inspired Word of God. The 9.5 point font is smaller than I prefer but it is a comfortable size and quite readable. Younger readers will find it quite suitable. This NIV is in paragraph format so the verse numbers and line breaks normally seen in KJV and NKJV, etc. are extremely tiny, but said numbering does allow for comparison to verses in other versions. Throughout the Bible, footnotes help you understand the meaning of each passage in its context while there are “application notes” to facilitate understanding how the passage relates to today’s individual. Words of Jesus are in red print to help distinguish His spoken words. This Bible is hefty and hard covered. The binding allows for very good flat-laying-on-desk or table which is a plus when studying. There is a very nice dictionary/concordance as well as assorted appropriate maps. The paper is quite thin and light shadow or bleed through of back side type is noticeable. This is a good study Bible and reasonably priced. Click here to purchase About the Bible: Featuring thousands of study notes drawn from the bestselling NIV Application Commentary series (over 2 million copies sold), the NIV Application Bible helps you understand Scripture and apply it to your life in a whole new way. This study Bible guides you in discovering how the ancient truths found in Scripture relate to your experiences today using insight from trusted evangelical scholars, paired with timely biblical application principles. Throughout the Bible, Original Meaning Notes help you explore the meaning of the biblical text while Application Notes make it personal, helping you to integrate the Bible’s teachings into your everyday life. The study notes found in this Bible follow the well-established format of the NIV Application Commentary series, bridging the world of the Bible and contemporary times by distilling and applying the timeless truths found in God’s Word. The notes are paired with other helpful features that will help you better understand the events, characters, and stories of the Bible, including book introductions, People to Know articles, and Character of God articles. The Questions for Growth found in every chapter encourage reflection on how these elements connect to your personal experience. The features are laid out using an engaging, full-color page design that also includes maps and charts that help illustrate biblical locations and timelines. The NIV Application Bible pairs a deeper understanding of the ancient biblical text with contemporary application of the lessons found within it, offering you a new way to understand what the Word of God means for your life today. Features: Complete text of the accurate, readable, and clear New International Version (NIV) Original Meaning Notes help you understand the meaning of each passage in its context. Application Notes help you integrate the teachings of the Bible into your daily life. Book Introductions provide perspective and application for every book of the Bible, plus timelines, reading guides, and more. People to Know articles show the good and bad of Bible characters’ lives, how God accomplished his purposes through them, and lessons we can learn from them about living a faithful life. Character of God articles explore aspects of God’s character and what these mean for our lives as believers. Questions for Growth in each chapter of the Bible encourage reflection on how to apply Scripture to life. 45 full-color in-text maps help you visually follow along with the locations of biblical events. More than 50 in-text charts make complex information quickly understandable. Chart Your Course includes topical, annual, and three-year reading plans to help you study at your own pace. Look Inside

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. I also received a small compensation for this posting. Any opinions are mine, alone and not influenced by publisher, publicist, or enticement. #zondervan #niv #nivab #nivac @nivapplicationbible

The Open Bible - NKJV: A Trusted Guide to Deepen Your Faith Journey (From Nelson Bibles)

The Open Bible: A Trusted Guide to Deepen Your Faith Journey 📖✨

My thoughts: Selection of a Bible should begin with a version you understand and reverence. The "version" is not holy but what it says carries the weight of the Word of God. My preferred version to read is one I've used throughout my life - the King James Version. Today, we are looking at the New King James Version which is very close in language to the KJV. Once you have selected the version you wish to read, the next choice is readability - the size and style of the font, how it feels in your hands, how well it lays open, and integrity of study materials that have been added.

You must carefully select according to faithful interpretation of the Word of God lest your Bible include false interpretation.

The Open Bible in the NKJV printed by the Thomas Nelson Bible Publishing company is a Bible you can trust. It is beautifully printed in readable type font size 9.5 (not a true "large print" but quite readable). Though a large Bible, it feels good in hand and opens well laying flat for ease in study.

Study aids included such as the Extensive Topical Index are highly beneficial in following a trail of study or locating specific material. I like that the Topical Index has been placed in the front of the printed material rather than at the back. The Concordance is thorough and always a big aid in study and reference.

Visual materials - The Visual Survey of the Bible is the most easily understood I have ever seen. Clearly presenting a visual history and time frame of people and events encompassed in the Bible narrative. The selection of maps (There is even a map index.) is beautiful and classified or documented uniquely to period or episodic.

Experience The Open Bible: A beautifully designed Bible with study tools & a trusted reference system, perfect for exploring Scripture and deepening faith.

Where to Purchase Your Copy

Click Here

The Ultimate Reference Bible for over 50 years.

About this Bible: The Open Bible has been a trusted resource for exploring and navigating through the interconnected themes and teachings in Scripture. The ultimate reference Bible, it includes a topical index, book introductions, outlines, cross-references, word studies, articles, graphs, charts, and maps to augment your Bible time and understanding of the context and themes from beginning to end.

The Open Bible offers a time-tested, complete reference system trusted by millions.

Key Study Features:

• Easy-to-navigate topical index with 50,000 entries displaying the connections between 8,000 names, places, concepts, events, and doctrines
• Interactive book introductions and outlines help you understand the historical context, themes, and verse relationships within Scripture
• Chain-reference doctrinal notes reveal the interconnected big picture of the entire Bible.
• Thomas Nelson’s complete cross-reference system, with over 72,000 cross references are conveniently located in the center column
• Visual Survey of the Bible illustrates the entire timeline of Scripture
• The exclusive Thomas Nelson NIV Comfort Print® type is expertly designed to allow your eyes to relax as they flow smoothly along each line of text.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. A copy may be purchased at: https://bit.ly/NKJVOpenBible

Heart of Courage by Penny Zeller (Maplebrook Publishing) [Review & Giveaway]

A new life awaits her...if she can find the courage.

In the spring of 1885, LilyBeth Engel makes the courageous decision to run from everything she's known. She boards a train and goes as far as her meager funds will take her with her young son in tow. With nothing but the clothes on her back, the baby in her arms, her Bible, and a skill for sewing beautiful dresses, LilyBeth determines to succeed with the Lord's help and dogged determination.

Barrett MacCallum owns one of the largest ranches in Hilltop in the Montana Territory. He also owns several of the businesses on the main street. When a woman asks to rent one of his businesses for her new dress shop, he's amenable, even if it means charging the woman less rent because she's obviously destitute.

When Barrett begins to fall in love with LilyBeth, will she have the courage to allow herself to love again with so much at stake?

Heart of Courage is a faith-filled, tender romance with the reminder that God guides our every step.

Perfect for those who love books with the following tropes:

• Strong and handsome protector
• Found family
• Widowed single mom
• Happily ever after

My thoughts: In 1885 it was often hard being a woman. But if you've lost your husband because he drank himself to death and his evil companions cost you your home and source of livelihood. It would have been beyond hard. Top this rough experience with expecting your first child and you might have despaired of your desperate straights. Young Lily Beth was rescued from her homeless consition by a Christian couple who also led her to saving faith in God. 

But then circumstances again required her to find a new place to live and she chose to travel west.He despair turned to timid courage as she and her very young child boarded a train for the West land she landed in the small town of Hilltop, Montana.

Lily Beth's story is one of strong, yet young, faith. A story of caring, concerned townsfolk. A delightful and captivating boy, Otis, who will steal the reader's heart. Mean spirited local ladies. A story of letting God lead and control.

Penny Zeller's books are always uplifting, faith filled. They are always squeaky clean. They are always a sweet delight to read.

Read an excerpt - Click Here

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Ends May 26 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Secret word: faith - Winner's copy is provided by and mailed to winner by author Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Fun books for kids age 7+ to read themselves [Review & Giveaway] ✝️

Lily, the Lemur, and the Lamb King with contributors Bob Hartman, Keila Elm

My thoughts:  Young readers have a delightful early chapter book - chapters are just a few pages long and have engaging and fun black and white illustrations that will capture their interest. Parents will love having their child read uplifting stories about a child and an assortment of critters.

These retellings of stories from the Gospel with playful Lily and friends in on the action, teach lessons in a fun method but do not detract from the actual Gospel.  At the back of the book, each chapter has an explanation of the Biblical account's interaction with the story of Lily and friends and can be used for a time best suited to make applications.

A delightful book for young readers or even to be read to those who can't yet read.

About the book: The whimsical and imaginative short stories in this adventurous book will transport children to a different world, giving them a fresh way to engage with truths about Jesus and what it's like to follow him.

They’ll join Lily and her friend the Lemur on a series of adventures in the Lamb King's mysterious and exciting playground. Secret word: happy - They'll explore a me-tree, play Scrabble with a slow loris, and save an entire family of squirrels from the cold!

Along the way, children will find themselves exploring key truths about Jesus' kingdom—such as how to be welcoming, what gives people value, and why a self-sacrificing king is the best king of all.

Perfect as an independent read for children aged 7+ or as a read-aloud for ages 5+.

 Look inside - Click Here 

Abigail Gets Left Out by Bethany McIlrath & illustrated by Katie Saunders

My thoughts: Sometimes children can be mean and cruel to one another and some are very sensitive to the cruelties they hurl at each other. Sensitive children can really have a hard time when this happens. In Abigail Gets Left Out we see this scenario played out and see how Abigail learns how to deal with it personally.  

Abigail's grandmother plays a big part in helping Abigail. A delightful story just full of good stuff and life lessons.

About the book: 

Can’t sing. Can’t dance. Can count on Jesus!

9-year-old Abigail can’t sing, and she can’t dance. So when her friends start rehearsing a musical performance, Abigail feels very much left out and self-conscious. Isn’t she good at anything? Doesn’t anybody want to be her friend?

Jesus does! When Abigail reads Psalm 139, she realizes that Jesus made her wonderfully, just the way she is, so she doesn’t need to worry about not being good at musical things. And when she encounters John 15, Abigail learns that Jesus loves her perfectly and empowers her to be a loving friend, even when others let her down. 

As Abigail sees what a wonderful friend Jesus is, it transforms her other friendships—and it ends up transforming the girls’ musical performance too!

Look inside - Click Here

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 23

Ends May 22 @ 12:00 Midnight EST

Open to USA addresses only.

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DISLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.