Book Description

Dip into this book and discover a new idea for each day of the year. Look up today, look up yesterday, look up last week. Look up your birthday, your best friend's birthday, or you UNbirthday! But look it up! Life is fun. Facts are fun. And so is this book. Don't wait. Don't hesitate. You'll find an idea to help you meditate and cogitate - on every date. It's great! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

365 great ways for your child to grow in faith
Here's the book you've been wanting to give your child and one they'll actually be excited to read. "365 Fun Facts" doesn't just educate; it sparks interest in their Catholic faith by providing digestible tidbits of information and encourages them to push that faith farther in their daily lives.

Each day's entry starts out with an interesting fact, from stories of saints to national holidays (US) to science trivia, even a bit of popular culture and both Church and American history. Even parents will learn a thing or two! The daily passage concludes with simple ways your child can grow in his or her Christian faith, both in thought and action. In addition, some entries suggest creative activities - like making a scrapbook, outlining the family tree, folding paper airplanes - that can be done together. Humorous illustrations also dot each page.

As an adult I'm consistently impressed by the seamlessness of fact and faith in this book. Being a strong Catholic or even a compassionate person is not as hard as us older folks make it out, and kids, especially those who read this book, understand that well. Synder transforms the perils of Superman, the Great Wall of China, and the wedding at Cana into reasons for reexamining our faith and actions, thus making Catholicism slightly more accessible for those a little resistant to Catholic education of the parochial or Sunday school variety. (i.e., March 27: Superman may have had X-ray vision, but how might we use X-ray vision to see into other people's lives and try to understand what happiness or sorrow they are experiencing?) Kids will have no trouble relating to these simple lessons that form the foundation of their faith, and I only regret that more of us hadn't read it when we were younger.

Every day is special
Each day of the year has a special Catholic tidbit of information. Some are for small children, for pre-teens, for adults, for lapsed Catholics, and some are just plain interesting!

The booklet isn't really intended as a classroom type reading, but instead, as a handy book to just offer a starting point for further study. ... Read more

Reviews (75)

beautiful and inspired
When my brother died suddenly 2 weeks ago, my sister pulled this book out of a closet of books. A former teacher, she had saved it for years and now I know why. It was so comforting and beautifully written, magnificent. Geared toward children, the book was powerfully moving for the adults gathered as well. We read it at my brother's funeral by request of friends and family. This book opened up a dialogue about the afterlife between people of all ages and beliefs. Unintimidating, masterfully written and awesomely illustrated.

PEACEFUL AT LAST
I WAS SO ATTRACTED BY THE BOOK'S COVER THAT I OPENED THE BOOK AND BEGAN TO READ IT. (I HAD BEEN AGONIZING OVER MY FATHER'S ILLNESS AND KNEW IT WAS A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE I WOULD BE FACED WITH HIS DEATH.) AS I CONTINUED TO READ "THE NEXT PLACE" WHILE STANDING IN THE BOOKSTORE, I BEGAN TO FEEL PEACE I HAD THOUGHT WOULD NEVER RETURN. EACH PAGE WAS SO BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED AND EACH PHRASE SO COMFORTING. I BOUGHT THE BOOK. I READ IT TO MY FAMILY AS WE WERE GATHERED AROUND MY FATHER'S BED, JUST MINUTES AFTER HIS DEATH. I ALSO READ IT DURING HIS FUNERAL MASS. IT SAID ALL THAT NEEDED SAYING BECAUSE DAD WAS, AT LAST, "PERFECT". I HAVE SENT "THE NEXT PLACE", IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, TO FRIENDS WHO HAVE LOST LOVED ONES. THE REACTION IS ALWAYS HUGS, TEARS AND GRATITUDE.

How to explain death to a child (or an adult!)
Warren Hanson's book, The Next Place is one of the most profoundly moving and spiritually uplifting children's books;I have ever read as a educator or a parent.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough for all children and adults whose lives have been touched by the death of someone they have loved.

Buy this book, keep it on your shelf, and every once in a while,
sit down and re-read it. It will remind you of the joy of living and what it means to be a loving, caring human being.

A Gift for the Grieving Soul
My son died three weeks ago, and I was given this book on the day of his funeral. All I can say right now is that it was a gift of peace for my shattered soul. I read it every day, and I feel like my son is reasuring me that he is free and happy and with us still.

Give this book to someone who is griefsticken. Maybe it will help them, too.

I wept in the bookstore....
I'm a librarian for an elementary school and have two daughters ages 6 and 5. I was looking through the children's books at the bookstore when I came across The Next Place. The illustrations are magical and the placing of the text is in perfect accordance with the artwork. It was near effortless reading as my eyes just skimmed through the lettering placed at such a "flow" as to become a part of the illustration itself. It serves its purpose well. The meaning behind the words literally spoke to my soul and I blinked back tears. I knew then I had to get it for my daughters. I hope they will read it to their children one day. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Neale Donald Walsch's Conversations with God series has enjoyed boundless success, making his dialogue with God accessible to a worldwide audience of adults. The Little Soul and the Sun distills the essential message of the Conversations with God books and sews it into a story that even children can identify with. Frank Riccio's poignant illustrations are the perfect companion to Walsch's parable of a little soul who discovers that it is "the light" but still wants to know how it "feels" to be the light. This proves to be a problem, as God created nothing else but the light. God's solution, with the help of another soul, is to surround the little soul with darkness, so that it can feel what being the light is like. This deceptively simple tale of self-discovery carries such a profound message that adults as well as children will read it over and over, each time learning a little more about who we really are and why we are here on earth. --Brian Patterson ... Read more

Reviews (30)

A special book for special children
As the mother of a special needs child I find the message in this book delightful. Granted I haven't gotten to the point of having to explain the book, or its message to him yet. But I think that for any child, on any subject a book that inspires conversation and discussion with a loved one, is to be treasured. And in many ways I think that it answers many of the questions about God that frequently arise.

I think that in addition to using this book to teach about god, it will also be a tool to teach my child about others who may do unkind things and how to respond to them. ALso I really appreciat the focus on the emotional and personality ways that people are special instead of the focus of so many books on being special because of actions and sports- things that my son may never be able to do- but he will be able to be kind and loving and sharing and forgiving.

I found enlightenment with The Little Soul and the Sun
This highly inteligent book was written for adults who understand the specialness and uniqueness of children and the bright light they show to us. To teach our young ones, we must first understand the story. This book should be read by every ADULT, and lovingly passed on to our children. I've had this book for sometime, and have waited for a grandchild to give it to. But now I feel that I am "hoarding" it. There are so many who need to hear its message! (Guess I'll have to get more copies!)

Beautifully written, illustrated and profound!!!
Although I'm a Buddhist, my soul is healed after reading "The Little Soul and the Sun". I intuitively know the book contains a great secret of Life. Moreover, the illustrations are utterly beautiful. it should be a required reading for humanity.

Brings Love and Forgiveness
I am 42 years old and every time I read this book it brings tears of joy. The message almost instantly connects me with the love I have for the people in my life. It helped me forgive those I had difficulty forgiving. It is a book for the child within, no matter what age you are.
This little, innocent looking book may just rock your world. It did so for me. I, personally have bought at least fifty and given them to friends and family of all ages. If everyone could read, understand and accept what is available here in these pages we'd have instant peace on this planet.

Be Re-Minded of Who You Are
When I first read the book Conversations With God a few years ago, I was deeply touched. Much of the insights presented in this unusual conversation were a wonderfully fresh way of seeing All is One and that All is Love. A year or so later, I was browsing the children's section of the bookstore and came upon The Little Soul and the Sun: A Children's Parable Adapted From Conversations With God. I read it right there and it brought tears to my eyes.

Here it is some years later, and I've just bought this delightful book for my son as a Christmas present. This beautiful story is illustrated in lavish pastels by Frank Riccio, and features a parable about Little Soul--one who wants to experience itself as Who I Am. You see, Little Soul knows that it is Light--but feels that knowing isn't enough. So Little Soul asks God if it can actually feel what is means to be the Light. So God asks Little Soul how it can experience the Light when it is already as a candle in the Sun, along with the other billions of souls who make up the brilliance of the Sun? Little Soul entreats God to think of something--some way in which it can experience what it feels like to be Light.

God answers Little Soul "Since you cannot see yourself as the Light when you are in the Light, we'll surround you with darkness." Little Soul asks "What's darkness?" and God replies "It is that which you are not." Little Soul asks God if it will be afraid, but God says "only if you choose to be...there is nothing, really, to be afraid of, unless you decide that there is."

One of the central themes of Conversations With God is that in order for God to experience Itself, It had to be contrasted with something else--something "other". You cannot experience dark without light, up without down, now without then, fast without slow. The purpose of duality is to experience parts of the God-self in all Its glory. In a sense, we are all a part of God, and God exploded into a million Souls to experience Itself.

However, when We made the journey Earthward, We forgot where We came from--and Who we were. Little Soul and God continue the conversation, and talk about how everyone is special in their own way--each manifesting a different part of "special". Some parts of special include kindness, creativity, and patience. Little Soul decides that the part of "special" it wants to experience is the part of special known as forgiveness. A multitude of Souls gather around God and Little Soul to hear this extraordinary conversation, and God sweeps an arm towards them: "There is nothing to forgive" God says. Little Soul could hardly believe what God said. "Everything I have made is perfect. There is not a single soul in all of creation less perfect than you. Look around you."

Little Soul grumbles that this wasn't fun at all! How would it experience itself as One Who Forgives if there was noone to forgive? Just then, Friendly Soul offers to help him, volunteering to come into Little Soul's next lifetime so it can do something for Little Soul to forgive. Little Soul was incredulous, and aks why Friendly Soul, who was such a magnificent Being of perfect Light, would want to become dense and dark--slowing it's vibration in order to do this bad thing for Little Soul to forgive? "Simple", The Friendly Soul replies. "I would do it because I love you." Friendly Soul goes on to explain that both it and Little Soul have been male and femaile, good and bad, victim and villian--All of It. "Thus have we come together, you and I, many times before; each bringing to the other the exact and perfect opportunity to Express and to Experience Who We Really Are."

In being the "bad one" this time around, Friendly Soul will give Little Soul the opportunity to experience itself as One Who Forgives. Friendly Soul becomes serious and confirms that it will have to become dense and dark to do this act--and that both it and Little Soul may forget Who They Were. Friendly Soul asks Little Soul a favor: to remember, in the moment that it strikes and smites Little Soul--doing the worst that it can possibly imagine--that Little Soul will remember Who Friendly Soul Really Is.

An agreement was made, and Little Soul goes forth into a new lifetime, excited to be the Light--and to experience that part of "special" called Forgivness. "...whenever a new soul brought joy or sadness--and especially if it brought sadness--the Little Soul thought of what God had said. 'Always remember', God had smiled, 'I have sent you nothing but angels.'"

My favorite passage of the book, which is the major theme of the New Age, is "And so", God concluded, "when you are surrounded with darkness, do not shake your fist and raise your voice and curse the darkness. Rather, be a Light unto the darkness, and don't be mad about it. Then you will know Who You Really Are, and all others will know, too. Let your Light so shine that everyone will know how special you are!" ... Read more

Book Description

What happens when a small-town pastor and a handful of children choose to live the way Jesus would? Faced with difficult decisions, they learn to love, share, and forgive in ways that impact the entire community. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Timeless and Up-to-Date
A re-write of his great-Grandfather's timeless classic, "In His Steps" first published In 1896, this story stands solidly beside one of the simplest, yet most life-changing works of fiction ever written.

I dragged my heels for months before reading this, because I had the very intense feeling that nobody should tamper with the original. Yet this has brought the original home to new generations of readers, losing almost nothing in the transition -- a task I would have thought impossible.

The question posed in the original book has launched several generations of reechoing "What Would Jesus Do?" In this re-write by great-grandson, Garrett Sheldon, the story remains true to the original and just as life-changing.

The very simplicity of the story has blinded some to the depth of the message, but after more than 107 years and 50,000,000 copies of the original and now with updated examples and characters it continues to rank among the best books ever written.

Great book - very challenging
This is a great retelling - in a contemporary setting - of "In His Steps."This book helps you see the blessings and the sacrifices involved in truly following Jesus.This book challenges the reader to strive for a better walk with Christ - something all of us should hope for.

I have read this book in different settings a number of times in the past, but I am now going to have our church youth group read through it.I expect it will challenge each of them to not just be a Christian, but to "do" Christianity.

We are called to not just be hearers of the word, but doers.(James 1)This book helps challenge you to be a doer.

Read the Classic
I'd recommend reading Charles Sheldon's "In His Steps" before reading this. Then you decide who is the better writer and has a real handle on the concept.

Not the historic presentation of ethics
The current "WWJD" (What Would Jesus Do") phenomenon is not the Biblical understanding of how we are to determine right and wrong.While this book did not start that pop phenomenon, some may read this mistakenly. What Jesus would do would be different that you or I because He was fully man AND fully God, second Person of the Trinity.He was sinless, and although tempted in every way as we are, He did not sin.His purpose was to fulfill the Law in order to be the spotless sacrificial lamb of God, the atonement and substitute for our sins.He was the omniscient God incarnate, so He knew what was in each heart and what was the perfectly appropriate thing to say and do in each situation in order to accomplish His mission.In that sense, what He would do in a situation as God is a hypothetical we cannot know as finite creatures.What He might have done is a speculation.We are, however, TOLD in Scripture what we are to do, how as Christians we are to act and live.

A Life Altering Look at Ourselves!
I read this book with alot of hesitancy, being that it was loaned to me from one of our deacons, but I read it and once I got started, I couldn't stop!This book changed my outlook on life and how I should treat others.I loved this book and it's message so much that I bought 8 of them and gave them out to my co-workers.It has truely been an eye opener!Every Christian should read this book!If you didn't fully understand Jesus before, you will once you read this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Here is a modern and prophetic novel on a battle that could end our society. ... Read more

Reviews (53)

Not What I Had Expected
I have read this book, as well as many of Peretti's other books (This Present Darkness, Piercing the Darkness, The Oath). And though I have given a "thumbs up" to the "Darkness" books, I was disappointed with this read.

Now to be fair, I had read the "Darkness" books first, so I felt I had a taste of what made a "Peretti" book entailed. I didn't necessarily expect visible spiritual warfare, but I did expect it to be more of a thriller. Unfortunately for me, it was not.

The book's content: John Barrett, a news anchor, attempts to find the cause and reasoning behind his father's death and in the process, moves from a secular, worldly viewpoint to a more godly one, which forever changes his life.

I am surprised at all the reviews claiming it was a thriller, and maybe I should read it again at a later date to get a fresh look at it, but to be honest, I know I never will. I found myself skimming through much of the book, looking for more "meat" than I was finding. Also, in talking to other friends of mine who read the book, they seemed to agree with me. It was a bit longer and slower than it really needed to be, especially given Peretti's track record.

I suppose the bottom line is not to read the book with any expectations, as I did, and you may find it to be very enjoyable read--not all the reviews on here can be wrong! But as far as its ranking stands with other Christian fiction novels out there, I'd have to say it didn't "shine" any brighter than some other choices out there for me. Also note that had the grading scale allowed it, I would have given it a 2.5 stars out of 5 rather than a 2.

Prophet - from the perspective of a 13-year-old
I first stumbled upon Frank Peretti's work when my brother started reading them, and I must confess that he was instantly one of my favorite authors. Prophet might not be his best, but I would recommend it to anybody. It had my hooked until the end. All I can say is: Peretti, you've done it again!

The Prophet
I really enjoyed this book. The author, which is my favorite, has once again fabricated a spellbinding tale that will keep the reader guessing and wanting more. The ending was one of the best parts of the book and, to me, brought all the pieces together. If you liked this book, you may want to try The Oath, Peircing the Darkness and This Present Darkness, all by Frank Peretti.

Peretti at his best
The literary style of *Prophet* isn't quite like some of Mr. Peretti's other works--no dialogue among angels and demons--but it's definitely my favorie of Frank Peretti's books. John Barrett, the main character, is presented as a real human being, a decent man with a unique set of weaknesses, someone to whom I can relate. He finds himself face-to-face with life-changing issues that disrupt his comfortable, high-profile world, and along the way he rediscovers the God who had been there all along.

Caution
I have loved everyone of Peretti's books that I have read but I had to put this one down half way through. I was reading it when I was in my mid teens and it was too much for me. I am sure I will read it and love it when I get a little older. Just one word of caution: this book is not for children or the faint at heart. ... Read more

Book Description

Kids will love this creative and fun book in which 4 animals (an otter, beaver, golden retriever & lion) teach personality traits and how to respect and appreciate each individual for who they are. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Read over and over again
I have four kids.. age 8 - 11. I took this book on vacation with us, where we met up with friends who have 3 boys, 7 - 11. We read the book, over and over. I read it first, using different voices for the characters. Then, the kids read it aloud, with each child reading the chapter about the character most matching thier own personality. The results were hysterical.
This story touched each child so differently. Even the "cool" 11 year olds enjoyed the book, but even more, they enjoyed getting to know about the "psychology" of the different personalities. We took the identity test, and found the results very true! It gave a platform to discuss, at their level, how different personalities work together and against each other sometimes.
My friend's boy, (age 7) enjoyed the book so much, I had to leave it with him and buy another! Even two weeks after leaving that book behind, my children are referencing the personalities in this wonderful story.

A Book For All Ages!!
Over the years at my school our guidance teacher has read this book to us. I am an 11 year-old in fifth grade, and I ADORE this book. I've loved it since I was in kindergarten! The Treasure Tree has a cute plot, and wonderful pictures. I highly recommend it to kids and adults of all ages!

The Treasure Tree is meaningful to kids of all ages.
The Treasure Tree has touched my 3 year old's heart. We read a chapter before bed each night and she picks the chapter which she wants to hear. Even though the storyline is a bit advanced for her age, she seems to understand and delight in the theme of the value of unique personalities. And, as her Mom, I don't grow weary of reading this story to her for the 100th time because I learn something new each reading as well.

Kindergarten students love this book!
I'm a public school librarian, and The Treasure Tree is, by far, the most favored read-aloud of my Kindergarten children. The children identify with the book's characters because the personalities of each are so well-defined. We even set up a "Treasure Tree" in our library two years ago, and the children had opportunities to earn a "golden key" which they could trade for candy from the tree. I heartily recommend this book for elementary school library collections. Guidance counselors enjoy it, too!

A wonderful experience for every child!
I am a school teacher and use this book as a starter to every year. The four characters use their individual abilities to find the Treasure and in the end realize the accomplishment they can make by working together! Wonderful for teaching cooperation and accepting the differences of others. I have a unit I would love to share with other teachers! ... Read more

Book Description

When it was first published a decade ago, OLD TURTLE was hailed as a beautiful fable about ecology, peace, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Now considered a modern classic, OLD TURTLE continues to inspire people all over the world. Few books can match the understated power of its hopeful message or the evocative beauty of its illustrations. Each book will be packed with a CD featuring the author, Douglas Wood, reading the book, accompanied by original musical compositions. To commemorate the tenth anniversary of this best-selling favorite, a percentage of the book's proceeds will be donated to worldwide peacemaking organizations. ... Read more

Reviews (35)

Old Turtle
Wow...What a wonderful book! I would have to say this is probably one of the very best books I have ever read! Along with the amazing illustrations is a wonderful story of who the animals, mountains, the winds and the waters, the fish, and the rocks and the birds, and the trees see God. I think in a way it gives us a simile on how all of the different things of the earth could symbolize how all the different religions see God. But as the Old Turtle said God is all of the things that they said. God IS!
I would highly recommend this book to parents or teachers to read to children.
The Illustrations of the book are water colors and with how the author places the setting and talks about all the creations of the world I think it really ties the book and illustrations together. ~Kellie~

A thought-provoking, smile-inducing, really groovy story
The Old Turtle is truly an incredible book that works on so many levels. The author incorporated his love of, and respect for, the environment, as well as his concept of God, into a very well-written, enjoyable story. The illustrations were beautifully done and work so well with the subtle, underlying theme of the story. While the book will surly be enjoyed by children of all ages, I purchased it for a Christmas gift for my 28 year old sister. Likewise, I intend to buy another copy for myself so that I can continue to enjoy it, and share it with my children when I have them. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to humans of all ages.

This Is One Outstanding Book! Extraordinary!
I still have this amazingly and beautifully illustrated story book in hard cover with the "1993 ABBY Book of the Year Children's Book Award" gold sticker on the front. This book is a priceless gem that I have read to my children countless times.
Douglas Wood's phenomenal writing teaches us about honoring the diversities among nature, plants, trees, mountains, the ocean, and all of the different kinds of people on Earth.
Cheng-Khee Chee created the most beautiful watercolor illustrations that look brand new over a decade later in the hard cover edition, which is truly the only edition you would want to buy.
The story is too beautiful to describe. It is an amazing experience. If you want to know which book out of a million to read to your children, this is the one.
HIGHLY Recommended. It is Priceless, and as an adult, I love reading this book as much as my children love hearing it. A MUST BUY, and A MUST READ!

Start teaching diversity and tolerance early on.
I received this book years ago as a holiday gift from an adult friend to an adult me! However, my grand-daughter has heard this story over and over since she was 3 or 4, and it has led to many wonderful discussions about tolerance, diversity, the Creator, taking care of Mother Earth and all her children, what "God" might be like, etc. I'm not really wild about organized religion, but through repetition and gentle discourse according to her age, I've managed to convey to her a grounded understanding of spirituality to be found in nature and in everyday life.

In addition, this has become my standard newborn baby gift.

The best spiritual book ever!
I NEVER write reviews, but I had to write about this one!

It talks of all the different aspects of the earth and their arguments with each other over what is God. Old Turtle speaks up and proclaims that God is all the things they have said, but most importantly, GOD IS.

Old Turtle then goes on to talk about how humans are coming and are a gift. The humans do come, but they forget the gift and thereby destroy much of the earth. When they remember, they realize that if they love, they will experience the gift of God again.

This is how I want to teach my son and new baby about God. Not the politics of who is "right" or "wrong." We can all just be assured that through whatever spiritual path we are all on, we can take solace in knowing that GOD IS.

Beautiful story. ... Read more

Book Description

Best-selling children's title that communicates a parent's love for their child.Over 600,000 sold.Winner of the ECPA Gold Medallion.

Reviews (49)

If you love your children you will buy this book!
We received this book as a gift to read to our daugter on her 3rd birthday. What a gift! I could barely make it through without tearing up, because it expresses my wife and my sentiments exactly. Our children are adopted and when you read the book in that context, it makes it even more special. I too will never give another shower gift without including this book. It would also make a special gift for the adoptive parents of an older child, or as a high school graduation gift (Seriously!) If you want to convey the unconventional love you have for your children, buy this book. ><<>

Jest in case you're thinking of buying this book...
This is a sweet little story that Max Lucado wrote for his daughters when they were all very small. It's meant to be read as a bedtime story and serve as a reminder to young children that God created them and their parents will always love them. I found it to be very basic however. There is more that Lucado could have done with this concept. The text feels like it is missing something.

The illustrations however of Toni Goffe are another issue. Beautifully done ink and watercolor paintings add to that void that Lucado was unable to fill. These illustrations are beautiful enough to enjoy in their own right.

Why 4 stars?:
While I enjoy the concept of a bedtime book reminding children of how much God and their parents love them, Lucado seems to have left something out. Goffe's illustrations help to make the book more complete however.

my son misses his daddy
I bought this book as an after thought. I have a running joke with my 3 year old son that his hinney is mine and he tells me "no mom God made me and it's mine" Well my husband recently deployed and my little boy really misses him and is having some concern over is daddy coming home. I got the book to support the family joke, but got much more than I expected. I can't tell you how nice it is to have a really up lifting way to explain Gods love and mommy and daddy's love and how some day we will all be together, but in the mean time "just in case you ever wonder"...I will always be here for you ( even if daddy can't be). He asks me to read it every night. I agree with one review about the monster. He really noticed that page too. I think every child can gather strength and and a stronger sence of self from this book. I am now looking at getting them all.

Frightening Illustrations for Children
I read this book to my 22 month old daughter last night. It started out fine with a nice message. Near the end of the book there is a picture of a monster that scared my daughter so badly that she wouldn't come near me for the rest of the night!

She knew what she thought she saw and when I turned the page, she got a look of intense concern on her face. She turned the page back, looked at the picture and scrambled backwards and hid her face in my husband's shirt! She started crying and saying that she was scared. I guarantee she will remember the monster picture in that book for a long time and will think of it every time she is in bed with us sitting where she was when we read it.

The story seemed to get morbid at the end to me. It may as well have told my daughter that she's going to die, so am I and we will meet in heaven. I think she is a little too young for that concept. Had I read to the end of this book before I bought it, I would have left it in the store. From now on, I will definitely read to the end of every book I pick up before I buy it!

She Read it Over and Over and Over
I don't know exactly where this book came from, but it was sitting on my kitchen table this morning. Emma had one more book to read for her monthly reading award so we plunked down and started reading.

This board book is deceptive... it is written for a child: starting as a small baby and up to a teen and yet it can also be very much for the adult reading to the small baby up to the teen.

It describes how the parent loves the child and how God loves the child, asking the child to accept and know the answer to the question of whether or not they are loved "Just in Case You Ever Wonder"... and who doesn't wonder, "Does my family love me?" or "Does God love me?" or "What is there about me to love?"

Lucado lays it out beautifully for the child in each of us to know and treasure.

You will want to have a copy of this one around "just in case" a child wanders by who you might have the chance to sit and read for a while. You could even sit out on your front steps and wait for your neighbors to come out and offer to read to them for a spell.

I read it to Emma who then read it to two-year-old Sam and then to herself again and then to Sam again and then to herself again.

She started the day cranky and ended up going to school with a big smile on her face.

See what I mean about this book?

Read it to all the "children" of every age you can. It will be good for YOUR soul as well as theirs. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Subtitled a "Story of Encouragement for All Ages," the Trellis and the Seed tells the story of how "God has planned something beautiful" for even the tiniest, most unassuming little seed.

The tiny seed begins its mysterious journey in the hands of the seemingly omnipotent "Nice Lady," who predicts--much to the seed's disbelief--that it will make a "beautiful vine with sweet-smelling blossoms." Even as the Nice Lady plants the seed, erects an ambitious trellis, waits for rain, adds fertilizer, and performs all her other nurserial oblations, the seed continues to be baffled by its caretaker's faith. ("It was only a seed, and very, very small. How could it ever be a beautiful vine with blossoms?") How indeed? Suffice it to say, God doesn't send a crafty bird to eat the seed in a harrowing third-act changeup.

Jan Karon's story of patience and faith shows the same folksy charm that infuses her Mitford Years series, and her gentle words find a soothing complement in the skilled, muted watercolors of Robert Gantt Steele (of the Her Story series). (Ages 4 to 8) --Paul Hughes ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A Brief, But Warm Burst of Sunshine of A Book
As a fan of Karon's, this is first of this nature of her books for me. What a delight of a quick read, all of five minutes or so. But what a read!

Story of a seed, dry with no hope of becoming anything worthy. But through being set aside, doused in water, but into the deep, dark cold ground, drowned with water, covered with manure, and struggling to reach top of the trellis and finally to produce blossoms, supported by trellis and Nice Woman, it happens.

Knowing the author's faith and numerous Biblical references to plants and bearing blossoms (e.g. Psalm 1 and Mt. 13:18-52, and John 15:1-9), one cannot but sense that this is real parable's meaning here. Although many will derive pleasure from the read and wonderful illustrations, and still others will sense morals of patience, perseverance, support, etc., the strong spiritual implications here are obvious, what with the strong Biblical allusion and Karon's faith evidenced in the Mitford writings.

Blessings on this creativity and beauty communicated so wonderfully for all ages to be encouraged to blossom and bloom where and when the Lord wills.

A Tickle or A Kiss?
A book of encouragement for all ages, enchantingly illustrated. God's perfect timing, mixed with grace and peace and the warmth of the earth and the water of the skies, can make us all be better than we ever imagined. A small volume, which I read in its entirety on my lunch hour, still delivers a powerful message.
The Nice Lady, Mamalinda ... Read more

Book Description

This handsome book, illustrated in the finest tradition of classic children's literature, will give your child an appreciation of the Bible that will last a lifetime.

Sixty-three favorite stories are retold here in simple, traditional language that can be easily understood by children of all ages. Each story is short enough to be read aloud in a single sitting and is printed in large, clear type so young readers can enjoy it on their own.

More than 150 full-color illustrations capture the spirit and excitement of the Bible. These memorable, richly detailed pictures will make reading Bible Stories for Children and endless source of enjoyment and inspiration.

This is a book you will want to share with your child. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Best Children's Bible I've Found
I looked at several children's bibles before picking up this one, and I have been very happy with this purchase. All the major Bible stories are here, and the author has broken them down into manageable bits for children to read and understand. The stories are told in an entertaining, can't-put-the-story-down manner, yet never fail to teach the lesson intended.

This is a fabulous book to read to your children, for them to read to themselves, or for adults to read when they want a quick review of everything biblical. Definitely deserving of five stars.

A Wonderful Bible Book
If you buy this book,you will turn a bad boy into a good boy.It's the same way with girls.The book taught me to be a wonderful Christian!

Great Gift for kids
I bought this book for my son who made his first Communion. It is an excellent book. All the best stories of the Bible are in this book. The kids are actually intrested in it! How better to learn about Jesus and the Old Testament than reading this book. We love it and I am thinking about buying it for my religious Education class for a Christmas gift.

Bible Stories for Children
I purchased this book in February, 1989 and have read it cover to cover at least six times for each of my three children. It is the best children's Bible that I have found. Children are interested as early as 3-4 and remain interested through 10-12. It is outstanding. I recommend reading from start to end, two chapters per night. It is well illustrated, Biblically sound, and well written with appropriate size print. Enjoy and God Bless. Makes a wonderful Christmas Gift. ... Read more

Book Description

The angel paintings of artist Nancy Noel beautifully portray Amy Nolfo-Wheeler's story of Jacob, a child angel on a journey of discovery.This keepsake book, in heavenly color, features a glow-in-the-dark cover.An inspiring message of hope and joy for children and other youthful spirits. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Wonderful Book
A wonderful book! I give one to everyone I know who is struggling in dealing with this type of loss.

Excellent Book!!!!!!!!!
Incredible illustrations and wonderful story!! Bought it for my children as I loved the message and thought it would be good in the loss of a pet. Now I find myself in the position of supporting a friend's child as he prepares to die after a 5 yr. battle with cancer. NEVER thought I'd need it for that but was thrilled to find the main character's age (6 yrs old)is the same as this child. I know this book will help him on his journey!

Eases feelings at the loss of a pet
For anyone who loves animals and has experienced the loss of one, this story supports the emotional attachment and makes us feel the pet is in a great place. We hope for our pets to be taken care of without us, and this story sets just that stage.
The illustrations support the story and are beautiful in their own right. I have given this book to three friends with children who have lost family pets and all three felt it provided a kind word at that most difficult time.

I LOVE this book!
This is a must have for anyone with children or who work with children! I still can't read it without tears coming to my eyes. I am the director at a Christian preschool and we have read it many times when hearing questions of pets dying. The story helps children to cope with the lose by helping them envision their pet in a happy, beautiful place with children angels who love them. It also emphasizes the joy of one day being reunited again. Please order this book now or keep the title for future reference. I have never done a book review for Amazon but felt compelled to do one on this book! You won't be sorry!

All Gods Creatures Go To Heaven
This book is wonderful. It was a gift to my daughter and I highly recommend it. I know a family who has had a young (very young) girl pass away. I decided to look for this book to give to her older brother who is only 3, to show him that his baby sister is with the Angels. This book would help anyone (even adults) feel better about a death of a child. Highly recommend. ... Read more

Book Description

This is a non-fiction book about the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe, set in the historical context of 16th century Mexico. The beautiful colour paintings, 18 in all, are taken from the oil paintings of Jorge Sanchez Hernandez. His collection, known as the "Nican Mopohua" (a poem the Aztecs created in order to tell this story and hand it down through the ages) is beautiful and tender. They inspire courage and confidence in life's true meaning, and stand in direct contrast to violence, destruction, greed and oppression.Unlike many of Our Lady's apearances in other places, such as Fatima and Medjugorje, she comes with no general message in the words for the world, but rather with a mission of action for two me. To the one "Go and ask, and keep on asking" and to the other "build." And by contrast, the message intended for the Aztec people, and Spanish settlers alike, was not just spoken words, but eloquently with images. With one exquisitely rendered self-portrait and a tilma full of roses, Our Lady changes one man's heart, liberates a people from the suffereing of human sacrifice and gives hope for the end of foreign oppression. With these few images, Our Lady brought about, on a grand scale, spiritual conversion of Mexico that Christian missionaries up to that time had been unable to accomplish.Her spoken message: "Come to me and tell me all your woes and problems, I am your Merciful Mother, the Mother of the One, True God, the Mother of all the nations on Earth, and I want to alleviate your sufferings." She comes as Mother to remind us she is ever with us, always ready to help, to guide, to comfort, nurture and love us. No obstacle stands in her way. We need only turn her in our anxiety.Juan Diego gives an example to all those who would volunteer for noble causes, not by neglecting his family, even though he has been asked directly to go on a divine mission. Our Lady acknowledges and respects his devotion to his dying uncle, visits him to comfort and cure him, and gives him also a message for the bishop.The story appeals delightfully to young boys and girls whose confidence and self-esteem may be fragile, the littlest ones, the quiet, timid ones, the overlooked ones, as they find in Juan Diego encouragement and hope. Thier Mother in Heaven notices their needs and their circumstances, and She will stand by them in all they must face, because they are very dear to Her. ... Read more

Book Description

When a poor devout widow begs for a scrap of bread from a rich faithless baker, she promises to participate in the king's wedding mass as payment for the baker's generosity. The baker writes "One Mass" on a scrap of paper and places it on his scale to determine how much bread it is worth. To his and the entire town's surprise, nothing in the shop, not even the gigantic wedding cakes made for the king, outweighs the simple piece of paper representing the true worth of a mass. Luminous old-world watercolor paintings grace the interior of the book and gold foil artwork lends an air of solemnity and sacred beauty to the story. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Awesome book!
What a wonderful way to explain the importance and power of a single Mass! And the illustrations are BEAUTIFUL! We read this book today and are definitely going to be adding it to our library.

Thank you
Thank you very much for the kind words! I'm the illustrator of this book, and I was very happy and touched when I observed the exhaustive reviews above. I absolutely agree with them, the story is really wonderful. I especially admire its polished style, it is really carefully-chosen. I remember when I red it the first time, it was a special experience for me to read the story. It is so touching, beautiful and amazing. I warmly recommend this book for everybody, who loves the classical values.

Exquisite, beautiful, luminous story and illustrations!
Want to give your children or other children whom you love a precious gift? Give them this book! It's one they'll read as children and they'll read 40 years from now to their own children. It's not only a beautiful story, but one that will strengthen their faith.

Wonderfully written by Josephine Nobisso and luminously illustrated by Katalin Szegedi, The Weight of a Mass, is an original cultural folk tale based upon a true story. The story reads and looks like a fairy tale.

A ragged, destitute widow arrives at the kingdom's prosperous bakery and begs only a crust of bread in exchange for offering a royal wedding Mass for the baker.

The baker scoffs and tears off a tiny piece of tissue paper on which he writes the words: One Mass, intending to place them it on the scale to find out the value of a Mass.

Much to his surprise, when he drops a piece of old bread on the other side of the scale, it does not tip. So, he enlists his son to stack more and more baked goods on top of the scale. Out come cherry topped cupcakes, marzipan apple, filled chocolates, poppy seed cakes, rolls, donuts, fruitcakes, cream cakes, berry tarts, poached pears, plum pudding, candied fruits, almond confetti, crsuhed walnuts, and eventually the royal wedding cake.

The father, his son, the old woman, and others in the kingdom come to learn the weight of a Mass.

The story includes an author's postscript recounting the original story as told by Father Stanislaus from Luxembourg who tells of a conversation between a butcher and a Captain of the Forest Guards that was interrupted by an old woman begging a morsel of meat in exchange for a Holy Mass intention. As a result of the miracle, the Captian began attending Mass daily and one of his sons later received a calling to the priesthood.

I cannot say praise this book enough. It's a genre that is sorely needed in children's literature. Not only is it a beautiful book, but it teaches about the richness of the Mass and the priceless presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.

The paintings are wonderful, particularly those of an arched interior of the Cathedral and the bishop holding up the Eucharist at the wedding Mass.

Do yourself a favor. Purchase this book for your children, your grandchildren, and any other children whom you love.

An enthusiastically recommended tale of human spirit
The Weight Of A Mass: A Tale Of Faith by Josephine Nobisso is an enhanting children's fairy tale picturebook based on a true event, about a widow who brings about change in the formerly cold hearts of a kingdom when she begs for stale bread in exchange for participating in the royal wedding Mass. Gentle color illustrations by Katalin Szegedi enrich this heartwarming and enthusiastically recommended tale of human spirit and faith in God. ... Read more

Book Description

For Catholic children ages 4 and up, A Peek Into My Church is a fun, informative and accurate introduction to the Catholic religion. Narrated by Liddy Bennett and her brother Mark, this book uses vibrant full-color illustrations and engaging, realistic narrative details to teach children the essential Catholic beliefs and rituals. The book introduces the idea of church community (local and worldwide), Baptism, the parts of the Mass, Communion, priests and their duties, vestments, and sisters and their many roles in the church. Includes a picture dictionary and church floor plan. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

I felt guilty reading this it was so good!
Ages 4-8??? Paleeze! This one is timeless, a true must read for all ages! Who says religion can't be fun.

A Wonderful Book For Everyone!
I have to say that this book is so informative and it isn't just for children...I would give this book 5 stars as it explains just about everything that a child could ask a parent. I believe that it keeps the attention of the child because it is very colorful and it is contemporary.

A superb educational tool for Catholics everywhere
Wendy Goody and her colleagues have assembled a fun, wonderful learning guide for Catholic children everywhere. A must-have for any Catholic parent or educator.

Well written and illustrated
The authors and illustrator have made a potentially complex and confusing subject, easy to read and understand. The book is extremely helpful to those interested in the basics of the Catholic church and what goes on inside the walls, and what the various articles of clothing and objects mean or stand for. ... Read more

Book Description

"I refuse to speak further of the Ten-legged One...but the more I think about it, the more I like it. Why mess around with Catholicism when you can have your own customized religion? All you need is a disciple or two...and a god."

Fed up with his parents' boring old religion, agnostic-going-on-atheist Jason Bock invents a new god -- the town's water tower. He recruits an unlikely group of worshippers: his snail-farming best friend, Shin, cute-as-a-button (whatever that means) Magda Price, and the violent and unpredictable Henry Stagg. As their religion grows, it takes on a life of its own. While Jason struggles to keep the faith pure, Shin obsesses over writing their bible, and the explosive Henry schemes to make the new faith even more exciting -- and dangerous.

When the Chutengodians hold their first ceremony high atop the dome of the water tower, things quickly go from merely dangerous to terrifying and deadly. Jason soon realizes that inventing a religion is a lot easier than controlling it, but control it he must, before his creation destroys both his friends and himself.

Pete Hautman, author of Sweetblood and Mr. Was, has written a compelling novel about the power of religion on those who believe, and on those who don't. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Must read
This book will change the way you think. It's a good story, with characters I swear I know, and the main guy is too believable for words. He's funny, he's serious, he's smart, and he's not smart. Just like that guy that sits next to you in (fill in the blank). He's got questions about people telling him what to believe--he wants to figure it out for himself--and conquering his fear helps him do that. I never knew what would happen next. I've told all my friends to read it.

Godless is Awesome
First, I loved the characters. It was great to hang out with them. Second, I loved what it was about. Godless shows you how a religion could come to be--how it could actually be created.

Pete Hautman always takes on big issues in his books: Sweetblood--vampires and diabetes, Mr. Was--abuse and time travel, Stone Cold--gambling. In this new book, he decides to take on a huge issue--what and how we believe God to be.

Godless is serious and funny at the same time, at the same moment. You can be laughing about what a character is saying and yet it can be painful and true. ... Read more

Book Description

The charming illustrations of artist Susan Winget,and the magical words of author Mark Kimball Moulton are combined inthis delightful tale of friendship entitled "Everyday Angels" from LangBooks. Whether read by yourself or shared with someone special, thiswonderful new book reminds us of how important we are in each other'slives. Each Lang Book features original Lang artwork with a laminatedcover and matching dust jacket. Size: 11-1/2"w X 10-3/4"h. 32 pages. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Touching insight into the people who are our "angels"
This is a lovely story of the "angels" that walk among us: be they teachers, firefighters, our neighbors, our mothers... When you think you need some strength, these are the people who come through for us -- our support and inspiration. It is a great story for children, but also is a wonderful gift for your "angel." I keep giving my book away....

Captivating story and illustrations!
This book, beautifully illustrated and written in poetic form is a keeper and a wonderful gift to kids. It is a simple tale of how important we are to one another and how we all have "angels" watching over us whether or not we can really "see" them. In fact they are in smiles, and in nature and in the good things in life. This book so captivated my daughter-in-law that she distributed hundreds of them to the families of the firefighters, the police and the rescue personnel families who lost their father/mother in the Sept 11 tragedy. A mother of two herself, she and her family and friends deliverd these books to the firestations in early December for distribution. Each book was dedicated to the family and signed personally by the people who gave the donation for the book. This was a deed done out of love and this is what this book is about. A great baby present- and a keeper for your child. I am a grandmother- and I recommend this to all you. ENjoy and read with your grandchild!

Best of 2000!
This book has a wonderful story, but its illustrations are simply spactacular! What beautiful drawings to bring this book to life! I love reading the story of watching out for others to my chilren, but I really love admiring thesegorgous pages of artwork! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The Storm God Rules!
The book Hittite Warrior is a classic. My son read it and passed on to me. I could not pit down. This is an excellent read for anyone interested in ancient history, Hittite history and life struggles. THank you.

Nice story, lousy writing
The basic idea and plot of this book is really neat. The story is set in the Biblical time of the Judges before Israel had a king. We are introduced to a Hittite youth living in the Mediterranean about the time that Greeks, particularly those from Crete, were gaining ascendancy. The Hittites as a people are conquered and become fugitives. Our protagonist flees first to the Phoenicians and then into the hills of Judea, where he meets Deborah, the prophetess, and Berek, the Israelite general who is to defeat Sisera. He ends up fighting in the battle on the wrong side, but eventually marries a Israelite woman and settles down in the area.

On the way, we are introduced to all kinds of Hittite, Phoenician, Israelite, and Canaanite customs. We learn about their dress, their gods (particularly the dreadful Moloch), their methods of fighting, their habits of enslaving captive peoples, and so on. The book has obviously been carefully researched, and the plot is plausible and interesting.

I give the book three stars because the writing is terrible. The fact that the book is for children does not excuse this. Sentences are frequently awkward in construction, and the book reads like a first draft. For instance, the writer will say something like, "The warrior rushed towards me, and I hit him with a stick that I had picked up several moments ago before he attacked me." That's a paraphrase, but you see what I mean. Why on earth weren't we told about the stick BEFORE the warrior rushed towards him? It's as thought the writer just thought of the weapon, and instead of putting the event in it's proper place, she flings it in as an afterthought. This kind of sloppy editing occurs throughout the text. As imaginative fiction, it's great, but this book is NOT a good example for kids to follow in style, editing, or structure.

I couldn't put it down!
I'm a mom of three home-schooled girls, and I bought the book for them. I decided to read the first few pages to make sure that the reading level was appropriate for my oldest. I couldn't put it down! From the very beginning, the author gets you interested in this Hittite young man. The descriptions of the battles were interesting without being upsetting to children. Besides battles, there are horses, spies, lots of interesting information about what it might have been like to live during this time in history, and some good plot twists.

'...the hair rose on the back of my neck...
.

...at the enormity of the sacrilege.'

Hittite Warrior tells about a Hittite boy, Uriah Tarhaund, and his adventures after his family is killed by the Greeks, or as they are refered to, the 'Sea People'. Told by his father, he promised to go to Siseria, a man in Canaan. He is brought to Tyre to be rewarded for saving a merchant from thieves. He is 'adopted' into the family. One of the servants of the merchants father, Ethbaal, saves a child from being sacrificed to their God, Moloch. Forced by the servant, Jotham, to come with him, he lives with Jotham's Hebrew tribe for a while. Keeping his promise, Uriah went to Siseria but was captured on the way. After being released he took part in defending Canaan from the Hebrews. He loses the battle and retreats across the river Kishon to Dor in the company of another soldier. He returns to Ethbaal to save his daughter, Mehitable, from the Philistines. The end of the story is very touching. I found the tale extremely intriguing. It had some facts regarding the structures of buildings, the chariots, etc... There is, for those of you who like war, a battle in the story. I find it a very good book for a person in their early teens.

I also recommend: The Cat of Bubastes (G. A. Henty), For the Temple (G. A. Henty), The Golden Goblet (Eloise Jarvis McGraw)

Good historical fiction for homeschoolers
Takes an obscure period, and an obscure people and makes an interesting story. Historical fiction such as this is much more fun than textbooks. It's very readable with enough action to keep the attention of young readers. This clarifies who the Hittites were, where they lived and what happened to them. ... Read more

Book Description

Target age 6-12 years. isstamped "Holy Bible." Modified J-wrap with spine copy. J-wrap istargeted toward kids