Review and Giveaway: The First Christmas Night

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the products mentioned below for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

The First Christmas Night
^ link to review
Written by: Keith Christopher
Illustrated by: Christine Kornacki
Publisher: Ideals Books
Hardcover: 32 pages
Ideals Books FB | Website

About The First Christmas Night
The First Christmas Night is a beautiful retelling of the birth of Jesus on that joyous night in Bethlehem so long ago. The poem begins with the arrival of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem and winds though Christ’s birth, the angels’ appearance to the shepherds, and the visit by the Wise Men. The simple, yet elegant, verses will appeal to little ones and are accompanied by the rich acrylic illustrations of Christine Kornacki.

About the Author
Keith Christopher is a composer, arranger, orchestrator, and educator, and he has served as editor and producer for several major music publishers. In addition to writing and studio producing, Keith served on the faculty at the Blair School of Music of Vanderbilt University in Nashville. He lives in Hendersonville, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

About the Illustrator
At a very early age, Christine Kornacki developed a love for painting and bringing stories to life. After receiving a BFA in illustration from the University of Hartford, her dreams of illustrating children’s books began to take shape, including illustrating the best-selling The Sparkle Box for Ideal’s Children’s Books. Christine’s recent work also includes illustrating the six-book series for the American Girl historical doll characters Marie-Grace and Cecile. She spends her days painting in her studio, which adjoins a charming cafe in New Haven, Connecticut.

Who is it for?

• Kids ages 4-8 – The rhyming language can help them develop verbal language skills and learn to read
• Family story time during the holidays
• Children’s Ministers and Sunday school teachers
• Christmas carolers could set it to a tune!

GIVEAWAY time!!
One lucky reader will receive a copy of The First Christmas Night. Giveaway ends Wednesday, November 20 at 11PM. (Giveaway open to US and Canadian residents. If you have been a winner of one of our giveaways in the last 30 days, you are not eligible for this giveaway.)

To enter, leave a comment telling about the last book you read or let us know if you a favorite Christmas tradition, or your thoughts on the Christmas story…or say ‘Howdy!’ Thanks!

For extra entries, you can leave one comment on any post on our blog ONCE A DAY ONLY until the end of the giveaway, or leave a comment on the Melody and Emily’s reviews of THE FIRST CHRISTMAS NIGHT.

– Joyce

Review and Giveaway: Audrey Bunny

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the products mentioned below for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

Audrey Bunny
^ link to review
Written by: Angie Smith
Illustrated by: Breezy Brookshire
Published by: B&H Publishing
Picture book
B&H Publishing | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube | Pinterest

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Sweet sisters! One of Emily’s favorite parts is reading about the illustrator, Breezy Brookshire, because she has a sister named Emily. 🙂

This book came at the perfect time. We were having a women’s retreat at our church, and I got to have some quiet ‘me and God’ time. It was wonderful to reflect and hear Him speak. The passage that we were to read over was Psalm 139, which is part of what this book is about!!

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I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. – Psalm 139:14

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About Audrey Bunny
From best-selling women’s author Angie Smith (I Will Carry You, Mended) comes this sweet children’s book about a stuffed animal named Audrey Bunny who fears her imperfections make her unworthy of a little girl’s love. She’ll learn the truth soon enough, and young readers will learn that everyone is special and wonderfully made by God.

Angie Smith is the wife of Todd Smith (lead singer of Dove Award winning group Selah), best-selling author of Mended, I Will Carry You, and What Women Fear, and one of the most popular speakers and blog writers in the country. She holds a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology from Vanderbilt University and lives with her husband and daughters in Nashville, TN.

GIVEAWAY time!!
One lucky reader will receive a copy of Audrey Bunny. Giveaway ends Sunday, October 20th at 11:30pm. (This happens to be my sister’s birthday, so you can wish her a happy birthday for an extra entry. 😉 hehe)

To enter, leave a comment telling about the last book you read, or if you had a favorite stuffed animal when you were a child, or if your kiddo has a favorite stuff animal, or anything related to being wonderfully and fearfully made…or say ‘Howdy!’ Thanks!

For extra entries, you can leave one comment on any post on our blog ONCE A DAY ONLY until the end of the giveaway, or leave a comment on our review of AUDREY BUNNY.

Review and Giveaway: Rufus and Ryan Go to Church!

Giveaway is now closed. The winner of the Ring the Bell DVD is Merry!

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the products mentioned below for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

Rufus and Ryan Go to Church!
^ link to review
Written by: Kathleen Long Bostrom
Illustrated by: Rebecca Thornburgh
Published by: Ideals Books
Board book
$7.99
Website | Facebook

About the Rufus and Ryan series
Rufus and Ryan is a new series of books for preschoolers, featuring Ryan, an energetic little boy, and his stuff monkey Rufus. Basic Christian and church concepts serve as the foundation of the series, with an additional focus on character traits and development. The text is presented in young Ryan’s voice as he teaches Rufus about the concepts he is learning himself. Each story is about 150 words, using age-appropriate vocabulary and themes.

About the Author
Kathleen Long Bostrom is a published children’s author in both the Christian and trade markets. She has a Master’s in Christian Education and a Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching, and she has worked in children’s ministry for many years. Kathy and her husband, Greg, have three grown children and live in Illinois.

About the Illustrator
Rebecca Thornburgh began illustrating children’s books full-time in 1996 and today has almost 100 books to her name. Rebecca’s vibrant watercolors have been showcased in previous Ideals titles, including the new edition of The Story of Christmas. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and two daughters.

GIVEAWAY time!!
One lucky reader will receive a copy of Rufus and Ryan Go to Church! Giveaway ends Thursday, October 10th at 11:30pm.

To enter, leave a comment telling about the last book you read, or your favorite part about going to church, or anything related to faith…or say ‘Howdy!’ Thanks!

Bonus: FlyBy Promotions has shared a Top Ten Tips for Introducing Your Child to Worship.

For extra entries, you can leave one comment on any post on our blog ONCE A DAY ONLY until the end of the giveaway, or leave a comment on our review of RUFUS AND RYAN GO TO CHURCH.

Review and Giveaway: Grace Unplugged and Own It

Giveaway is now closed. The winner of Grace Unplugged and Own It is Kayla Rice!

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the products mentioned below for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

Have I got a treat for you! The winner of this giveaway (details at the bottom of post) gets two books: Grace Unplugged and Own It. If the title Grace Unplugged sounds familiar, it probably is. This book is a novelization of the movie script. (There are performances by Chris Tomlin and Jamie Grace. Starring AJ Michalka (of AJ & Aly) and James Denton.)

Grace Unplugged <– link to our review
Written by Melody Carlson
Website | Facebook | Twitter | B&H Facebook | B&H Twitter

Own It: Discover Your Faith in God <– link to our review
Written by Hayley and Michael DiMarco

About Grace Unplugged the Novel
Grace Trey is an 18 year old singer as passionate about her Christian faith as she is her phenomenal, God-given musical talent. Both traits come from her father, one hit wonder Johnny Trey who found Jesus after losing his chart success two decades ago. When Grace encounters her own music break of a lifetime, the sudden dive into the “real world” puts her deeper beliefs to the test. Pop superstardom is just within reach but appears to require some spiritual compromise. Will Grace reject her faith, or will she own it?

About Melody Carlson

Melody Carlson has sold more than five million books. A professional writer for twenty years, she recently received the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. Melody has two grown sons and lives with her husband in the Pacific Northwest.

Anyone have plans to watch the movie? Anyone local want to go together? The movie releases on Friday, October 4th!! Here’s the trailer:

About Own It, Discover Your Faith in God
Own It mirrors the film by asking what it means to really “own” your personal faith rather than just automatically following in the footsteps of parents, friends, or other influencers. Best-selling authors Hayley and Michael DiMarco help readers understand what to do when faith meets real world challenges. Without solid beliefs, poor choices are likely to follow. You must take the time to really know who you are, who you are becoming, and who God made you to be. It’s your personal faith . . . own it!About Hayley and Michael DiMarco
Hayley DiMarco is the best-selling author of more than thirty books including Dateable, Marriable, Mean Girls, and The Woman of Mystery. She has been a featured speaker at Women of Faith, Precept National Women’s Conference, and MOPS Intl. among others and has consulted on the creation and enhancement of some of the largest stadium events for teens and young women in North America.

Michael DiMarco is a skillled communicator and teacher who has authored more than a dozen bestselling books including the 2010 Christian Book of the Year for Youth, B4UD8 (Before You Date). He and his wife, author Hayley DiMarco, have one daughter and live in Nashville, Tennessee.

There seem to be a theme in the lessons God is teaching me lately. Grace…Grace… Grace…

GIVEAWAY time!!
One lucky reader will receive a copy of Grace Unplugged and a copy of Own It. Giveaway ends Thursday, October 3rd at 2:30pm.

To enter, leave a comment telling about the last book you read, or a worship song that you like, or anything related to faith…or say ‘Howdy!’ Thanks!

For extra entries, you can leave one comment on any post on our blog ONCE A DAY ONLY until the end of the giveaway, or leave a comment on our review of GRACE UNPLUGGED and/or OWN IT.

P.S. Women of Faith has a free song download on their website.

Review and Giveaway: Praying God’s Word for Your Life

Giveaway is now closed. The winner of Praying God’s Word for Your Life is Deanna!

Praying God’s Word for Your Life
Written by Kathi Lipp
Website | Facebook | Twitter

Last year we got to hear Kathi Lipp speak at our MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group. She shared about The Husband Project. (If you like projects, you’ll love Kathi!! There’s also The Me Project, The Getting Yourself Organized Project, The Marriage Project…) We had her back this year to talk about Connecting With Your Kids. (Also a great book!!!) Of course, I had to snatch up a copy of each of the new books that she has.

And I remembered to document my encounter with her this time, because that’s what bloggers do, right? :p

I love Kathi! She is hilarious and real. She’ll tell it like it is. 🙂 Read my review of PRAYING GOD’S WORD FOR YOUR LIFE on our review blog (for an extra entry to win your own copy). I’m not telling you all her books are good because she gave me a free copy of this book give to you either. I actually personally own a copy of every single one of her books!

GIVEAWAY time!!
One lucky reader will receive a copy of Praying God’s Word for Your Life. Giveaway ends Thursday, July 25 at 1:24pm. Emily chose that ending time. :p

To enter, leave a comment telling about the last book you read, or if you have ever met an author before, or anything related to prayer…or say ‘Howdy!’ Thanks!

For extra entries, you can leave one comment on any post on our blog ONCE A DAY ONLY until the end of the giveaway, or leave a comment on our review of Praying God’s Word for Your Life.

– Joyce

Review and Giveaway: Can’t-Wait-Willow

Giveaway is now closed. The winner of the book, Can’t-Wait-Willow, is Jen!

Can’t Wait Willow
Website | Ideals Books | Ideals Books FB

About Shine Bright Kids:
The Shine Bright Kids series provides children and their families with a relevant framework to help instill solid values and teach the importance of making good choices. The principles that will be explored include: using good judgment, taking responsibility, having a positive attitude, and demonstrating perseverance.

About the Author:
Christy Ziglar, financial planner, mother of twins and niece of legendary motivator and the world’s original optimist, Zig Ziglar, is bringing the same timeless wisdom and ageless advice to an entirely new, younger audience through her new Shine Bright Kids picture book series. Christy is available for Q&A, author interviews, Skype calls, etc.!

Can’t-Wait Willow! from Ideals Children’s Books from Ideals Books on Vimeo.

The first book in the series:  Can’t-Wait Willow!
Willow is so excited that the Over-the-Top Circus has finally come to town! The only problem is, that when left to her own devices, she can’t say “no” to some good things. On the way to the show, she is distracted by enticing treats and fun that she just can’t turn down. Willow arrives late and is sad to find that, not only has she has run out of time, but money, and she won’t be able to enjoy the pink cotton candy she’s been dreaming of. Willow is given valuable advice and a second chance and is ultimately taught the lesson that sometimes in life you have to say “no” to good things to end up with something great!

About the Illustrator: Thanks to her first grade teacher, who recognized her superior skills in drawing a robin, Luanne Marten has been drawing, painting and sketching ever since.  She is a great experimenter and has a fresh, whimsical approach to bring her characters to life.

Website: The author’s website has great resources to support the book, including a printable poster with ‘Ways to Shine Bright,’ as well as reward chart you can use at home with your children.

GIVEAWAY time!!
One lucky reader will receive a copy of Can’t-Wait-Willow. Giveaway ends Wednesday, May 15th at 11PM.

To enter, leave a comment telling about the last book you read or let us know if you or your kids have been to the circus before, or your thoughts on getting a second chance…or say ‘Howdy!’ Thanks!

For extra entries, you can leave one comment on any post on our blog ONCE A DAY ONLY until the end of the giveaway, or leave a comment on the Melody and Emily’s reviews of CAN’T-WAIT-WILLOW.

– Joyce

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

Review and Giveaway: Hey God, I’ve Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach…

Giveaway is now closed. The winner of Hey God, I’ve Got Some Guy… is Genevieve!

Hey God, I’ve Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach and I Think I’m Gonna Throw Up!
Website | Troy Schmidt Facebook | BH Publishing | Twitter

Melody & Emily’s review + a promo vid

About the Book
Oh sure, we’ve all heard the story of Jonah and the Whale a hundred times. But have we heard it from the perspective of the whale who experienced that history-making event? Hey God, I’ve Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach and I Think I’m Gonna Throw Up! imagines how that great sea creature from the incident might tell his side of the story, helping kids ages 4 to 8 discover a creative way of learning about that guy who was supposed to go to Ninevah. The “Parent Connection” feature (inside the book) will help moms and dads take the story further with scripture references and tips on how to talk with their children about what really happened.

About the Author
Troy Schmidt has writing and video production credits ranging from assignments with Disney (The Mickey Mouse Club) and Nickelodeon to Max Lucado’s Hermie franchise. He is currently the lead writer for The American Bible Challenge hosted by Jeff Foxworthy on the Game Show Network. Troy and his wife have three sons.

The series: This is just the first in a series! Other books available include Hey God, Can You Stop the Rain so I Can Get off Noah’s Smelly Ark? and Hey God, I’m Having an Awful Vacation in Egypt Thanks to Moses!

GIVEAWAY time!!
One lucky reader will receive a copy of Hey God, I’ve Got Some Guys Named Jonah in My Stomach… Giveaway ends Saturday, May 4th at 11PM.

To enter, leave a comment telling about the last book you read or let us know if you’ve seen a big fish before (how big was it?!), or your thoughts on running away from God’s plans for you, or what the next book in the series should be…or say ‘Howdy!’ Thanks!

For extra entries, you can leave one comment on any post on our blog ONCE A DAY ONLY until the end of the giveaway, or leave a comment on the Melody and Emily’s reviews of Hey God, I’ve Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach…

– Joyce

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

Review and Giveaway: The American Bible Challenge Daily Reader

Giveaway is now closed. The winner of the giveaway is Genevieve Y.

The American Bible Challenge Daily Reader
Written by Troy Schmidt
Website | Facebook | Twitter | GodTube

About the Book from Amazon.com
Using many of the questions from the first season as a guide, each day features an inspiring lesson along with five challenging Bible questions to take you deeper into Scripture. The book guides the reader through nine weeks of study and encouragement—the same length of time as a season of The American Bible Challenge—with over three hundred questions to test your Bible knowledge. And don’t worry, all the answers are in the back. The American Bible Challenge Daily Reader includes questions to deepen your knowledge and to change your life. Are you ready to jump in and take the challenge?

About Troy Schmidt
Troy started writing for animation, with credits for such TV shows as “Dennis the Menace,” “Heathcliff” and “Flintstone Kids.” He found my way to Orlando and wrote three seasons on “The Mickey Mouse Club.” GSN and the producers of “The American Bible Challenge” contacted Troy and asked him to help them put together a game show about the Bible. He joined them in Los Angeles and have worked with an amazing team through the pilot and two seasons. He is also on staff at First Baptist Church Windermere, Florida where he serves as a Campus Pastor.

GIVEAWAY time!!
One lucky reader will receive a copy of The American Bible Challenge Daily Reader. Giveaway ends Thursday, April 11th at 11PM.

To enter, leave a comment telling about the last book you read or game show you watched, or your thoughts on gameshows, or anything related to the Bible…or say ‘Howdy!’ Thanks!

For extra entries, you can leave one comment on any post on our blog ONCE A DAY ONLY until the end of the giveaway, or leave a comment on our review of The American Bible Challenge Daily Reader.

– Joyce

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”

To Walk or Stay Book Club

I would like to invite you to be a part of the To Walk or Stay book club that is starting April 15th. It will continue until June 20th.

The chapters are easy to read. Lara shares truths that can be applied to all areas of your life, not just marriage. Is there something in your life where He is calling you to stay, even if it will take hard work?

“This really isn’t just a book about marriage, it’s about a really big God who wants to meet us in the darkest of valleys and administer hope and life and healing. He’s just that GOOD.” – Lara Williams

Each Thursday, I will post a link here to that week/chapter’s post. Make sure you get your own copy soon and join us! (There is still a giveaway going on at Patti’s blog.) Chapter 8 discussion will be hosted right here on our blog.

April 18, Chapter 1 :: Lara Williams at “To Overflowing”
April 25, Chapter 2 :: Crystal Stine
May 2, Chapter 3 :: Katie Orr at “Hello Mornings”
May 9, Chapter 4 :: Kayse Pratt
May 16, Chapter 5 :: Michele-Lyn Ault at “A Life Surrendered”
May 23, Chapter 6 :: Tracie Stier-Johnson
May 30, Chapter 7 :: Francie Winslow at “Up, In, and Out”
June 6, Chapter 8 :: Joyce Moy
June 13, Chapter 9 :: Erika Dawson
June 20, Chapter 10 :: Stacey Thacker at “29 Lincoln Avenue”

Make sure to RSVP on the book club page.

– Joyce

P.S. If you can’t decide to join or not, read what others are saying about To Walk or Stay (scroll down to the bottom of the post).

Review and Giveaway: What I Wish I Knew at 18

Giveaway is now closed. The winner of the giveaway is Maryann.

What I Wish I Knew at 18
Written by Dennis Trittin
Website | FB | Twitter | Blog | Newsletter

About the Book from Amazon.com
What I Wish I Knew at 18 is an engaging, comprehensive, and conversational book written to help young adults achieve success in life. Through lively illustration, simple instruction, and practical, reflective questions, the book reveals key, before-the-fact secrets that propel people into thriving adulthood. Unique in its scope, universal in its message, and timely in its wisdom, it is designed to serve everyone who wants a solid grip on the prize of a successful life. Although conversationally written to graduates, it is destined to become the definitive parenting guide to preparing children for lives of impact. It is also a must read for schools, colleges, faith leaders, mentors, caregivers, and coaches as they partner with parents to educate students for life. Served in bite-sized morsels, the 109 success pointers average one to two pages in length, along with study questions to facilitate dynamic student discussions and deep personal reflection. Whether as a curricular resource or as a gift, What I Wish I Knew at 18 will help develop well-rounded students for their betterment and that of mankind.

About Dennis Trittin
Dennis Trittin is a successful investment manager, educator and mentor committed to helping young adults reach their full potential. Now retired from managing over $30 billion in assets, he devotes his life to promoting leadership and life management on a global basis. Trittin serves as an advisor to several charitable groups and as a speaker with national and local educational and community organizations. Dennis and his wife Jeanne are parents of two young adults and reside in the Seattle area.

GIVEAWAY time!!
One lucky reader will receive a copy of What I Wish I Knew at 18. Giveaway ends Saturday, March 30th at 11PM.

To enter, leave a comment telling about the last book you read, or your thoughts on graduating high school, or anything related to what you wish you would have known at 18…or say ‘Howdy!’ Thanks!

For extra entries, you can leave one comment on any post on our blog ONCE A DAY ONLY until the end of the giveaway, or leave a comment on our review of What I Wish I Knew at 18.

– Joyce

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.”