May the Faith Be with You - NIrV

An obvious play on Star Wars, of course, but this version of the Bible, aimed at young children (ages 6-10) works.

Dispersed throughout are 'stand alone' pages entitled 'Use the Force', 'Ways of Wisdom' and 'Master Moment'. These pages highlight the areas of the Bible that the reader may find useful. For example, on one of these pages, it asks "what does the bible say about": and lists a number of feelings and issues that someone may be experiencing such as anger, happiness, death, love, revenge and where to find the guiding passage, be it from Psalm's, Matthew or Deuteronomy.

This a well thought out Bible. It guides the reader to not only look at the main text of the Word, but aides a young person in finding spiritual guidance. I really liked that it asked questions such as 'Who is God' and offered passages to read and consider if you're feeling lonely, jealous or struggling to be honest. Whilst its geared at young readers, it would work for anyone of any age (especially Star Wars fans!). A recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Handlebar Publishing in exchange for a review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique. 

Love Letters from God - Glenys Nellist

Designed for young girls, each story taken from the Bible, is transformed in to a letter of love from God.

From ‘The First Girl’ (Eve), through to others such as ‘The Busy Girl’ (Martha), ‘The Hopeful Girl’ (Hannah) and the ‘Happy Girl’ (Mary Magdalene), the stories teach a young child how to have courage, strength and understanding all with the knowledge that God is always in their corner.

Whilst the stories have been retold in a child-friendly manner, the author references the passage in the bible, so whomever is reading can find it and read the whole story directly. With a few lines from scripture and little lift-flaps containing the love letter from God, this book is interactive and will be an inspiration for girls of all ages. Beautifully illustrated by Rachel Clowes, the inviting, colorful, images enhance the stories and will bring the message of God alive for all young readers.

I read this with my three years old, and she enjoyed opening the letters, especially as each letter is left blank for you to insert your child’s name. It certainly made it more personal for her. There is an envelope at the end for the reader/little girl to write her own thoughts and feelings to God. As she is still so young, it will be something she can do when she's older.

An enjoyable read and a great introduction to the women of the Bible, their stories and the meaning behind them. A recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Handlebar Marketing on behalf of Zonderkidz Publishing. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Noah - Mark Ludy

Genesis 7:6-10 New International Version (NIV)

 "6 Noah was six hundred years old when the floodwaters came on the earth. 7 And Noah and his sons and his wife and his sons’ wives entered the ark to escape the waters of the flood. 8 Pairs of clean and unclean animals, of birds and of all creatures that move along the ground, 9 male and female, came to Noah and entered the ark, as God had commanded Noah. 10 And after the seven days the floodwaters came on the earth."

In Ludy's graphic novel, he brings alive Noah's story from accepting the task of building the ark, the actual creation of the boat, the flood and then confirmation that the water had receded.

The drawings are just outstanding - colors are vibrant, faces detailed, animals have movement. So much said without a single letter appearing on the page.

I had to remind myself of the whole story so I could follow the pictures and no I haven't seen the Hollywood version. Ludy's illustrations are a compelling read and one that will appeal to both children and adults alike. There is a fun aspect to this book where you can find 'squeakers' (a mouse) on every page. I'm still looking for some!

An excellent book that allows the reader to tell the story in their own words assisted by stunning images. A highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Plough Publishing via Handlebar Publishing as part of their blogging program. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

A Plain Disappearance (An Appleseed Creek Mystery) - Amanda Flower

As Christmas approaches, Chloe Humphrey is still settling into her new life in Appleseed Creek, in the middle of Amish Country. Her excitement in seeing where her budding relationship with Timothy Troyer (who left the Amish way of life) is put to one side when they discover a dead body, frozen in the snow...on their first date.

The body belongs to Amish teenager Katie Lambright; and near the scene of the crime is evidence that Timothy's friend, Billy Thorpe, may be involved. Timothy can't believe there is any involvement until the police reveal that Billy isn't who he says he is. And to make matters worse, Billy disappears.

Donning her amateur sleuthing cap Chloe begins to unearth the mystery surrounding Katie's death. By the request of Chief of Police, Chloe talks to the Amish community eliciting information about the teenagers life. The investigation reveals a young girl who fraternized with 'Englischer's', her father's temper and there was a rivalry for her affections between two local boys. Can Chloe discover the truth behind the death? Will she be able to break through the wall that the Amish community build to keep people out?

The third book in the Appleseed Mysteries, Flower's novel is a balanced mix of murder, intrigue and the Amish lifestyle. Chloe, in all respects an outsider, manages to be a part of Timothy's family and interact with other Amish families without being too intrusive, well until she really has to be. Not always afraid to voice her opinion, Chloe has tenacity, loyalty and great deal of respect for the Amish people. In her quest to find a solution to the death of Katie, she has to face a few truths about her own life.

A well thought out mystery with likable characters, the author has created a well paced novel that keeps you guessing right to the end. With side characters like Grandfather Zook and Tanisha adding their own humor and insight, the story flowed without being too heavy. As a fan of Amish fiction, reading a murder mystery regarding this private set of people was a great twist on the many books already out there. I liked that the underlying theme was about faith and hope. Written in an easy style, with excellent descriptions conveying both the people, family strife and scenery makes for a well rounded novel. A highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Handlebar Publishing to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.