Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Goodbook Partner Review: His Grace is Enough by Melissa Krueger Illustrated by Isobel Lundie

 


Alright, Melissa Krueger's last book made one of my all-time favorite children's book list!  (that link is my review in 2020 of Wherever You Go).  So I wondered what I would think about her second children's book.  

Things I like about the book:

  • The words rhyme!! there is a great rhythm to enjoy!
  • The truth about God's grace is communicated clearly, addresses common misconceptions, and is repeated throughout the story.  
  • This is realistic fiction about God's saving grace.  It's not boring non-fiction, it's the truth we all need to be communicated to us with these real-life applications applied.  
  • The illustrations are kid-friendly, represent diversity, and are realistic, yet quirky to draw the reader in. 
  • The theme that is repeated, which is another reason I love the book, "God's grace is enough, it's so big and so free, His grace is enough both for you and for me!"
What I wonder:
  • Why not include a scripture reference?  Ephesians 2:8 &9 maybe?  
  • Will the children reading this book look for one main character throughout the book?  or will the illustrator's approach with so many children and experiences that resemble ordinary thoughts mean that the readers don't notice? I didn't.  
  • How many parents will memorize this book that I hope will become a classic addition to many family libraries?  
Back Cover:
From the Book Description: 

This illustrated, rhyming book will help parents explain to children the unique and wonderful Christian message of God’s grace—that Jesus offers forgiveness and allows us to move on from our mistakes.

It can be used to share the heart of the Christian faith with children or to remind them that Jesus is the person to run to when they mess up.

Children will learn that God’s grace is enough to cleanse and change us every day, as the book itself says...

My child, here’s the truth:
From God, you can’t hide
He sees what you’ve done
He knows what’s inside

But please don’t despair
There’s good news, I say!
Whatever you do
God’s grace makes a way

Yes, his grace is enough
It’s so big and so free
His grace is enough
Both for you and for me

This beautiful hardback book makes a great gift for children ages 3-6 and even beyond.

Written by Melissa Kruger: author of Wherever You Go I Want You to Know and Five Things to Pray for Your Kids; Director of Women’s Content at The Gospel Coalition; speaker, blogger, and mother of three.

Thankful to partner with the goodbook for children publishing and I wonder how many copies I will give away of this new favorite book!  This one goes to my favorite children's book list!

Thursday, April 14, 2022

GoodBook Partner Review: The Awesome Fantastic Forever Party by Joni Eareckson Tada & Illustrated by Catalina Echeverri

 


A brand new Tales from the Truth picture book for reading aloud and readers.  I have reviewed other books about heaven and never felt like I had one I could embrace well.  Well, that has changed!

Things I liked about the book:

  • Engaging opening: "Have you ever been invited?" 
  • Defines the best invitations, "to unforgettable events with amazing people."  
  • Jesus is connected to this teaching about Heaven so intimately, and who He is as our King and Rescuer is established clearly. 
  • John 3:16 paraphrased as the invitation.  
  • In true fashion for this series, myths of heaven are addressed and the Truth of the Bible is taught.
  • The illustrations enhance the descriptive language, and the celebratory tone of the book, and build connections for the reader. 
  • Heaven is described well and with the Truth from the Bible- a place of no more sin as well as splendor and glory.  

Things I wonder about the story:

  • Could there have been bible references on the footers or headers of pages that connected to the truth shared? (The author's letter at the end shares verses).  
  • Is the connection between sin and eternal life clear enough?  it's so well written with Truth, and I trust that those who will choose to share this book will also know the Truth.  
  • I'm reviewing a pdf and I wonder if the little picture envelope at the end of the book is just an image or if it is an envelope that opens?    


Joni reading part of 


the book....


The Goodbook company really wants those who are in children's ministry to be able to use their products to teach.  They provide the book illustrations to share on a screen, and often related handouts, and this time it's a whole party pack!  https://www.thegoodbook.com/foreverparty  If you pre-order the book you can even get extra bonus goodies when you submit your info.  

The book launches to the world- May 1st so order before then to get the pre-order bonuses.  You won't be disappointed!  

Thankful to partner with the goodbook company and read an early release, I'll update my review when my physical copy arrives.  

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Bethany House Partner Review: May His Face Shine Upon You 90 Biblical Blessings for Mother and Child by Susie Larson

 



Susie Larson as an author is a blessing. This book pairs a blessing for the Mom with a blessing to share or pray for her child and a scripture verse.

I like books written by this author because they are founded and communicate well a real authentic relationship with God. She communicates effortlessly natural attributes and aspects of God's character and how those fit into a human's daily life- in this case, Moms and children. She does a great job modeling for the reader ways to think about God in a lot of different scenarios in life. I highly recommend it as a great resource.

Thankful to partner with Bethany House and review the book.