Book Description

Three new titles to complete the series!

This series of dig-deep studies provides an excellent framework for youth workers to help teenagers to love God and to desire a growing relationship with him. The flexible 45- to 60-minute sessions address timely, important topics surrounding personal character in teenagers' lives. They'll get practical ideas for applying God-centered character traits to their lives...and discover how to live out their growing faith. Get one 4-session book for each participant to journal and reflect on what they discover about God...the Bible...and themselves. ... Read more

Book Description

Etan Boritzer's best selling non-religious, non-denominational book, now in its 13th printing, talks about the diversity in all the great beleifs and the way in which we are all connected. With spunky illustrations by Robbie Marantz, this book has delighted children and adults since 1989 because of its ecumenical approach to this greatest of children's (and adult's) mysteries! ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Mysticism for kids!
This amazing little book puts the highest spiritual realization of nondual Enlightenment in language and illustrations that almost any child can appreciate and understand. Mysticism is based on the direct spiritual experience that God is Spirit (or Consciousness, or Being, or Love) and that Spirit is infinite and eternal. This realization, as scholars such as Huston Smith, Lex Hixon, and Ken Wilber have shown, forms the foundation of every major world religion (Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and Taoism) and can be attained directly by anyone willing to devote the time and energy required to practice a method of meditation or spiritual contemplation. As a cute yet profound acknowledgement of this, Boritzer ends this book with a meditation experiment that children (and adults!) can perform to get a quick taste of the ever-present nature of God for themselves.

Contrary to mistaken perceptions, this book does not espouse the philosophy known as "pantheism," which maintains that God is nothing but the universe. First of all, what this book aims at is a direct experiential realization, not a philosophy. Second, it is true that the universe is nothing but God, as the book explains, but God is _not_ nothing but the universe. The twentieth century theologian and mystic A. W. Tozer explained this as follows: "God dwells in His creation and is everywhere indivisibly present in all His works. This is boldly taught by prophet and apostle and is accepted by Christian theology generally. . . . He is transcendent above all His works even while He is immanent within them. . . . God is here. No point is nearer to God than any other point. It is exactly as near to God from any place as it is from any other place. No one is in mere distance any further from or any nearer to God than any other person is." And as the 16th-century Jewish mystic Moses Cordovero said, "God is all that exists, but not all that exists is God."

Basically, what that says is that if God really is infinite, then he cannot be opposed to, or separate from, anything that is finite (like you and I), or else he would just be one thing among other things, and that would make him distinctly finite. Some theologians argue that God is infinite, but he "chooses" to remain separate from human beings; however, that nonetheless makes him finite (a self-imposed limitation is still a limitation) and, in fact, bears no relation to the truth as mystics from Jesus to Buddha have explained it. Jesus of Nazareth, in saying 77 from the Gospel of Thomas (which dates from the same period as the four gospels that were canonized into the Bible), says: "I am the Light that is over all things. I am all: all came forth from me, and all attained to me. Split a piece of wood, and I am there. Pick up a stone, and you will find me there." Some scholars have mistaken this for pantheism, which it clearly is not. God is the Light (Spirit) that is over (transcends) all things. All things come forth from God, and all things return to God (which means that God isn't simply the totality of "all things," as pantheism says, but also the Source of all things). Split a piece of wood, and God is there (which means that God is not separate from the world, put permeates it to such a degree that, indeed, the world is ultimately "made of" nothing but God). Thus, nondual mysticism maintains that God is simultaneously the Source _and_ Substance of all that is--which means God really is Infinite in the fullest sense of the word. This "All is God; all is One; all is Spirit" understanding is the most sacred spiritual Truth there is, and anyone who objects to it clearly does not comprehend it (and that's perfectly all right: "Let those with ears listen").

For practitioners of mysticism who have children, intend to have children, or have younger siblings who don't quite understand what your practice is all about, this book explains the fundamental unity of all advanced religions, the shallowness of the fundamentalist conception of God, and the fact that God is Love and Love is Everything more simply and lucidly than any book around. It's a perfect gem, and it would be criminal not to share these truths with those young souls whose minds have not yet been locked into the narrow blindness of the average adult ego.

Wonderful, simple and heart warming!
"What Is God?" is appropriate for both children and adults. Because of it's clarity and clear message, I use it in my work with young children and sometimes recommend it for adults who are searching for answers themselves. I used excerpts from the book for a reading at my wedding this fall and it touched everyone, regardless of their religion! They all connected with Boritzer's simple logic and examples of how most major religions all really teach the same things. Buy it for all the adults and children you know who have ever wondered, "What Is God?"

sad
I picked up this book while browsing in a book store. When I read it, it made me sad. Instead of giving children satisfaction, it will leave a hole in their hearts. If you want your child to learn about God, try Because I Love You by Max Lucado. I am a teenager, but I love this children's book. It depicts God beautifully through the story and has gorgeous illustrations too.

G-d for the Thoughtful Child
My spouse and I are from two different religions; and while we have decided to raise our kids from my religion, we both wish our children to be open-minded. I don't claim to be a philosopher, nor do I play one on TV. I also don't claim that this book definitely goes into depth as to why some people take religions and use them for malevolent purposes. But I DO think that this book is a great starting point for mature kids of 5 and older to discuss the burning question about G-d and how people all over the world view G-d. G-d's role in different religions, and how people are sometimes not allowed to worship G-d for political reasons - this book runs the gamut. The first time I read it, it actually made me cry.

Put yourself in the shoes of the child that is consuming this book, not in your own, adult shoes, which are more mature and understand that there are many shades of grey surrounding the issue of religion. When you look at this book from a thoughtful child's perspective, it truly works. And that is the level that matters.

Strong concept, poor execution
As a Unitarian Universalist parent, I bought this for my kids (8 and 5). Not a good choice. There are way too many words considering the abstract nature of the book and lack of story line. The oversimplifications, particularly of Buddhism, offended me. The author seems quite taken with his own cleverness, and the humility one might expect from a mystical, all-religions-point-toward-God attitude is missing. The part about religious persecution is completely lost on my kids. Maybe other kids, who ask "What is God" type questions, will get something out of it, though I would caution parents to have their answers thought through and not rely on this book to do it. ... Read more

Book Description

Written for girls ages 8-12, Girlz Want to Know provides answers to questions about friends, family, and faith, as well as changing bodies, boys, and the future.This is a companion product for the Young Women of Faith series. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Good to Promote Understanding
I have this book for my kids, and I donated a copy to my son's school. They loved it. It's about real people in the United States and how they celebrate Ramadan and Eid (the holiday that follows). They even have a recipe for traditional cookies! The only problem is that one gets the impression that Muslim children are supposed to fast during Ramadan, and that's not the case - fasting is only required for healthy adults (that's defined as past puberty or when you've stopped growing). Otherwise, it's a beautiful book, with lots of basic information about Islam, as well. Highly recommend!

Celebrating Rmadan by Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith, Lawrence Migdale
This is a thoughtful book which presents the month of Ramadan as an important part of the religious practice of Muslims. The language was kid-to-kid, and the photos showed the family and how their religion fit in with their everyday life. I plan on using it in a 4th to 5th grade classroom as a part of a unit studying world religions and celebrations. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Exquisite and Sensitive!
This lovely book makes a wonderful gift for children. The brief and poignant text complements the touching, luminous paintings. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (2)

May goodness follow
The eight tales of the Jewish prophet Elijah begin with two uncounted stories--an author's generous note and her story of Elijah's life.

The prophet lived during the ninth century B.C.E., when Israel's King Ahab married the Phoenician princess Jezebel, who worshiped many gods. At odds with the royal court, Elijah denounced idol worship, admonished the people to believe in the One God and was forced to hide and travel from place to place.

Once, during a drought, the people Israel gathered at Mount Carmel, where Elijah challenged them to prove the existence of their gods. They prepared an altar and sacrifice to the Canaanite-Phoenician weather god Baal, and prayed for a fire to consume them. Nothing happened. Elijah, in turn, called upon the Holy One. A great fire descended, consumed his offering and ended the drought. Elijah did not die, but rose from the River Jordan in fiery horse-drawn chariot to Heaven, where he records deeds of the righteous, awaiting the time he can help establish peace on earth. We invoke his presence at life cycle events, on Saturday evenings, and at Pessach.

The stories that follow these two eloquent introductions exude kindness. In the first, Elijah appeared one day as Rabbi Joshua Ben Levi opened his eyes after praying. Though a great scholar, teacher and rabbi, he could not answer why some people suffer when they have done good deeds and why some wicked people are sometimes rewarded. Elijah agreed to take Rabbi Levi on his travels, provided he questioned nothing. Rabbi Levi agreed.

In one town, a poor farmer and his wife offered Elijah and Rabbi Levi a place to sleep and the butter, milk and cheese produced by their only cow. In the morning, Elijah prayed for the cow's death, which soon collapsed and died. The next night, they came to the home of a wealthy man, who grudgingly told them to sleep outside. In the morning, Elijah prayed for the man's wall to be rebuilt, which was done as if by unseen hands.

In another town, the worshipers at a fine gold- and silver-filled sanctuary gave the travelers a few pennies to buy water and bread and left them to stay in a room in the shul. Elijah prayed for the congregation to have many leaders. In a fourth town, members of a simple synagogue warmly welcomed the travelers and fed and lodged them in comfort. Elijah prayed for them to have a single leader.

Finally Rabbi Levi could stand his pain no longer. How could Elijah pray for suffering for the poor and rewards for the wicked?

Elijah answered: The wife of the poor man was ordained to die that day, so he prayed for the cow to die in her place. The rich man's crumbling wall hid a treasure, which would have been found had it collapsed, so he prayed for it to be repaired. A congregation with many leaders would be troubled, while one with one strong leader would prosper, so Elijah prayed for the worshipers to be rewarded according to their goodness or lack thereof. And then Elijah disappeared.

The seven other tales similarly teach children to follow Elijah's good example. On hearing each one, children pray for more. And goodness naturally follows. Alyssa A. Lappen

Journeys With Elijah : Eight Tales of the Prophet
Stories of the ancient prophet Elijah appear in cultures and traditions from Curacao to China to Eastern Europe, following the flight of Jews throughout history. Eight of these tales have been gathered and embellished in this enchanting book by Barbara Diamond Goldin. Master illustrator Jerry Pinkey's stunning and lovely watercolors vividly capture the details of the times, places, and people visited by the prophet. Disguised as a worn traveler and, oftentimes beggar, Elijah brings hope to those in need, and wisdom and friendship to those judged worthy. The possibility that at anytime we can be visited by this wise and generous prophet should encourage us all to treat each person we meet with careful consideration and kindness, as if they are Elijah himself. ... Read more

Book Description

Sports Spectrum’s Dave Branon hits a home run when he brings together the worlds of faith and sports to create this unique devotional designed just for young sports fanatics. Heads Up! uses stories of athletes and sporting events to inspire faith and achievement in kids. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Heads Up Receives Thumbs Up !
Dave Branon did an excellent job writing this book for children to help them connect sports with God. Too many times the emphasis is place on the sports player and not on the One who blessed them with their athletic gift.

My son was eager to get his hands on this book after hearing about it....

Make an investment in your sports child's life. This book will help them to focus on God first as they compete in whatever sport they enjoy. ... Read more

Book Description

God’s Kids Worship is a new collection of today’s top Praise & Worship recordings produced for and sung by kids 8-14 years old. Each all-new recording of God’s Kids Worship: Blue, Green, Red, and Orange will feature the most popular songs kids are already singing in church today. Included on these recordings are all of the top 25 and most of the top 100 of today’s most popular Praise & Worship songs as established by Christian Copyright Licensing International. Each recording also includes at least six hymns and traditional songs. Perfect for at home listening or sing-alongs at Sunday School, children’s church, small group, and backyard Bible clubs.Produced by four-time Children’s Album Dove nominee and multi-platinum Grammy nominee, Bob Singleton.

Songs included on God’s Kids Worship: Orange

1. O, Come Let Us Adore Him
2. God Is So Good
3. What a Mighty God We Serve
4. Be Still and Know
5. Heavenly Father I Appreciate You
6. Step by Step
7. More Precious than Silver
8. Nothing But the Blood
9. Tis so sweet to Trust in Jesus
10. Give Thanks
11. How Majestic is Your Name
12. Worthy, You are Worthy
13. I Have Decided to Follow Jesus
14. As the Deer
15. Tell Me the Story of Jesus
16. Shine, Jesus, Shine
17. Open Our Eyes, Lord
18. Great is the Lord Almighty
19. Were You There?
20. All Hail, King Jesus

Book Description

A visual, informative introduction to the traditions of Catholic worship and faith.

What’s an altar? Why do people light candles in a church? Who is the "Lamb of God"? What is a cruet, a kneeler, a baptismal font?

Through concise but enlightening descriptions and photos from a wide variety of Catholic churches, Reverend Michael Keane answers all these questions and more.

What You Will See Inside a Catholic Church will:

Give children the opportunity to ask questions, making them more active participants

Satisfy kids’ curiosity about what goes on in churches attended by their friends, broadening awareness of other faiths at an important age when opinions and prejudices can first form

Provide Catholic children with a deeper understanding of the practices of their own religious tradition.

What You Will See Inside--A new series of illustrated books designed to show children ages 6–10 the Who, What, When, Where, Why and How of traditional houses of worship, liturgical celebrations, and rituals of different world faiths, empowering them to respect and understand their own religious traditions--and those of their friends and neighbors.

Coming soon in the What You Will See Inside series:

What You Will See Inside a Mosque
by Aisha Karen Khan with photographs by Aaron Pepis

What You Will See Inside a Synagogue ... Read more

Book Description

Have you ever been frightened by big, loud booming thunder or by lightning streaking across he sky? Storms can be scary. But even in the midst of storms, God is there. Whether your little ones are facing actual storms or other scary storms that life brings their way—this charming, rhyming story and delightfully illustrated book reminds children that they can always know that God Is There! ... Read more

Book Description

This book looks at how people from the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jewish, Christian and Muslim faiths welcome a new-born baby into the world, including naming ceremonies, casting horoscopes, giving gifts, and saying special prayers and blessings. You can find out about some very special birthdays; how a Sikh baby’s name is chosen from the sacred text; why a Muslim baby’s hair is shaven off; why a Jewish father buys his son back from the synagogue, and much more.

Book Description

Parents record milestones and memorable moments in this book featuring the artwork of Thomas Kinkade. Text from the classic children's book A Child's Garden of Verses along with selected poems and prayers accompany the parental notations, creating a treasured heirloom to last a lifetime.

Reviews (1)

Beautiful and Moving
After looking at several baby books at the store, the was my favorite! Each page is beautifully designed, and the poems and scriptures are very touching. Thomas Kinkade's artwork is stunning, as always.

If you're looking for a sweet baby book, this is it! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great way to share Bible facts!
I bought this book after a workshop with the author. He was delightful, fun and full of great ideas on sharing God's Word with children. This book is "Dr. Seuss" sharing the Good News. I loved the topics covered and no wishy washy stuff.. just basic Biblical truth! My kids love it too! They would ask me to read and read everytime we got this book out. ... Read more

Book Description

Based on books 5-8 in the Left Behind: The Kids series, this second package of "Live Action Audio" is gripping for young and old alike. These twelve episodes (each approximately 25 minutes in length) will hold the attention of any listener, with original music and top quality acting. Best for ages 10-14 but loved by all ages. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Awesome! I love the stories! Christians everywhere REJOICE!
I read the LEFT BEHIND The Kids series for most of Spring 2000 and I loved them. I stopped at 4 because I kind of lost interest. But in October 2000 I got the first edition of the Drama cassettes. And this year I got the second edition. I am listening to it as I type this review and I will never stop listening. I will buy the 3rd very very soon. Anyway, if you are between the ages of 9 and 15 BUY THEM NOW! The CDs are better because of the enhanced stereo quality. Sounds pass around you, dialogue is heard from different directions, its awesome!

I LOVE THE LEFT BEHIND KIDS AUDIOBOOKS!
I love how they didn't decide to release a read version, but they released a "LIVE ACTION AUDIO DRAMATIZATION" of the kids books. I am a fan of the first Left Behind (Adult) Live Action Audio (Listen with very enclosing surround sound headphones and you will be blown away by the great sound quality!). I have Left Behind The Kids audio #1 on cassette (the store didn't have the CD yet) and #2 on CD. They are all great. Each disc represents one book. Each release has 4 books. Get this audiobook! Buy them both! Hopefully a movie will come out.

Left Behind The Kids:Dramatized Audio Based on Books 5-8
I am 10 years old and have been reading the "LEFT BEHIND KIDS"books since I was 8. I REALLY REALLY LOVE THEM and CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE TO COME OUT !! I was SOO EXCITED to get the first "LEFT BEHIND: DRAMATIZED AUDIOBOOK " with books 1-4, and then it took forever for this 2nd one to come out. The first one is AWESOME, and this one is just as GREAT !
I have a couple of unsaved friends,I've told them how GREAT the books are, but they don't like to read, so they won't read them,even when I let them borrow mine. But when they come over, they really like listening to these alot, & they ask alot of questions.They keep asking me if the new/next one came out yet, 'cause they REALLY want to hear what's gonna happen !!
The actors are really SUPER GREAT & you feel like your right there!There is NOTHING as INCREDIBLE as THIS !I just can't WAIT until the next "LEFT BEHIND KIDS "audiobook comes out. I sure hope it's soon or I'll go CRAZY! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Very good..
Daymond Duck has done it again. This is a great prophecy outline. The simplicity of the wording will grab teenage believers. BUY IT! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Rare Find
It is rare to find a children's book about God that let's children know that God is always present: everywhere they go, in everything they see, touch, hear, & do, and in everyone they love.In short, God's creations are all around them, & in THEIR world.

This story dipicts a child who is curious about what God looks like, if He is strong, what things He likes, etc. In this book, the child's questions are answered by showing the child some of God's creations.These are simple, yet miraculous creations that are present in our children's everyday lives, and easy for them to relate to.

This book is heartwarming and gentle. It also has outstanding illustrations of people of different ages and colors.

Nice illustrations, good idea, but kids were not interested.
While the sentiment of this book is sweet, it's really not the message that I wanted to give to my children about God.Fortunately they were completely uninterested after the first reading at ages 6 and 8. The message is seems to be God is in all things although it only focused on God being present during positive things in life.

A very good book!
I bought the book to read to my 6yo daughter. We have earth-basedspiritual beliefs and this book's presentation of God was very compatiblewith those beliefs. The illustrations are beautiful! ... Read more