Reviews (5)

Great short resource for students
I give this four stars only because many of the days don't include anything beyond the scripture passage and a quote. The days that do, however, provide excellent devotional thoughts. Along with this, the entire framework of the Bible is covered in only minutes a day. What more can be expected of one book (outside of the Bible itself?).

The best way to use this resource is to study it in a group with the curriculum written by the author available at simplyyouthministry.com. Use this with your class and the impact will be much greater.

Great way to get to know God's Word...
I got this book when I started to deepen my faith and found it as a great way to learn the Bible. Every day, there is a story from the Bible that includes scriptures to look up that apply to the story and a fun thing such a verse to memorize or a profile on a person in the Bible. I have since passed it down to my sister and she reads it every day. A great book with great intentions.

1 minute Bible 4 students
I am in my early forties and just found a type of Bible that I really enjoy reading. It is not easy to read just one study a day since you want to continue reading. Would recommend to those who want to start reading the Bible.

Best devotional I have ever read
I am a middle schooler and I read it every day. my church friends read it every day and like it. This is a very good way to learn the bible in 1 year and be able to read it year after year. my youth paster gave this to me because he thinks its a good way to read the bible. this book only does the main points of the bible but at the bottem of each scripture it show verse that are realated to that scripture.

A Must buy!!!
I am a youth pastor and have used the one-minute Bible with my teenagers. They love it! For those of them that struggle with reading the Bible on a daily basis, this is a great tool to start a lifelong habit of doing so! Doug Fields is concerned about teenagers having Scripture in their lives, and so am I! Don't miss out on this great tool! ... 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

Best-selling author and clinical psychologist Dr. Henry Cloud gives graduates nine life principles that, if applied, will truly help them to succeed in their life endeavors.9 Things Graduates Must Do offers revolutionary ideas such as Act Like An Ant, Hate Well, Don't Play Fair and Upset the Right People to help jolt grads into a new way of thinking that will prepare them for the road ahead.In Dr. Cloud's clear and engaging style that is always consistent with biblical principles, young people will have the chance to avoid years of hard-learned lessons and find keys to succeed in life. ... Read more

Book Description

Filled with action,danger, and suspense this book is sure to keep readers in their seats, following Billy and Bonnie to the exciting conclusion. This is the third saga in a four book series. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Dante Meets King Arther?That and more in Circles of Seven!
Dante meets King Arthur?Dragons that were and dragons to be?Deception and betrayal?Circles of Seven has it all - and that's just Chapter One!

Bryan Davis has done it again, not only creating a book that is as good as the predecessors - but one that surpasses them!Circles of Seven blends brilliant fiction, fascinating new mythology, Biblical truth and more plot twists than you can shake Excalibur at.The action makes this book cool, the players make it fascinating, the plot moves it and the writing of the characters make it real.

Mr. Davis reaffirms his place with greats such as Tolkein and Lewis, by creating characters that you get attached to then showing them in situations that illustrate what character based on faith can over come - all within a story that is so riveting that you can't help but turn the pages.

Circles of Seven introduces several new characters and surprises into the Dragons in our Midst series, characters that you'll love because they're so clever, and hate because they're so evil!But more than that, Circles of Seven brings us into an entirely new realm where science and mythology merge with sound theology and legend to create vivid portraits of places and events that will thrill you.

Underlying it all is the character that provides the baseline of the series.Billy, Bonnie, the Professor and Walter all have decisions to make that hold the fate of their own futures as well as that of the dragons - and even all human kind.Beautifully illustrated is how even the smallest decision can make a large difference - and even how people that are honestly seeking to do right can make mistakes.The good news for the characters as well as for us is that there's a loving Maker that can redeem even our mistaken choices.

On top of all that, Mr. Davis continues to introduce great new twists to the Arthurian Legend - and brings the series to the home of them all Glastonbury, the Isle of Avalon and the Tor from where the legends all spring.

Before you sit down to read this book, be sure that you've got everything else taken care of - you're simply not going to want put this book down!

A one of a kind: Circles of Seven
This story marches were no storys have gone before, to the exiting sci-fi regions and beyond.This is the best book of all the others.I found myself hooked on it through the day and most of the night.
(...)

Better Than the Best of Christian Fantasy
Deep characters, different dimensions, allegorical worlds...Circles of Seven has it all!When I read the first book in this series, I was a bit skeptical--I mean, what sane person would read about half-dragon children?I soon found out that it would be insane NOT to!

In this third installment of the "Dragons in Our Midst" series, Billy Bannister, along with his best friend and fellow anthrozil, Bonnie Silver, embarks on a dangerous journey through the circles to rescue prisoners from the the circles' dark mistress, Morgan Le Faye.What Billy and Bonnie don't realize, however, is the amount of danger that their quest holds for them.When Bonnie is captured by Morgan, things start to go haywire, and Billy is thrust into making a decision that could alter the course of his life forever.This book is impossible to put down!

If you enjoyed "Raising Dragons" and "The Candlestone," you won't want to miss this page turner!It's better than the best of Christian fantasy--and it's hard to find a book that good!

Highly recommended.

Best Book Yet with Spiritual Growth
"Circles of Seven" is the best book yet! It's so hard to put it down!There are very touching moments throughout the story.After reading "Circles of Seven," my faith is stronger than ever.I'm patently waiting to read the next book in the series.

I encourage all readers who love Christian fantasy or just fantasy novels to go out and buy this book for yourself.This brings you into the world of wonders, where dangers, adventures and so much more awaits for your mind.Bryan Davis has once again done another outstanding job, and I believe and know he will do another outstanding job for the next book to come out.I gives this 5 + more stars. :D ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A changed teen
this devotional book is amazing! my youth group is currently working through this book. i can already see the amazing things God is doing. Being part of a youth group with out a youth pastor or youth leader is hard. When a young adult stepped up with this book i was hestitant, but i can see God working through this and in us.

Life Changing
This is one of the best devotinal books I ever read. It helped me to see what God wanted for me in my life. It really turned my life around.
I was so glad I bought it at my youth camp. That's where I met Stuart Hall himself (awesome goddly man to meet). He mentioned this book at the camp for those who wanted to learn more about what he talked about. (I surly did!)
This book covers everthing from the Basics to Moral Boundries, Friends, and Choices.
God really worked on me through this Book and his very own word.
I hope any and all who read this book will be abel to see God more clearly as I did.

A Volunteer Youth Sponsor looks at "The Seven Checkpoints"
I am a volunteer youth sponsor for our small church and youth group. Recently, and coincidentally, our full-time youth pastor and our only other youth resource person resigned. Without full time leadership we sponsors were feeling mighty inadequate. I heard Andy Stanley on a radio talk show doing a promotion for his new book. I bought the book and found it to be not only an easy read but clearly delineated and organized for even those of us in part-time volunteer ministry. Stanley and Hall offer some unorthodox but very sensible approaches to planning and maintaining a youth group over a long period of time with a specific goal in mind. The book is so easy to follow, we have decided to adapt our curriculum to their philosophy of these seven pivotal checkpoints. I recommend this book for any struggling youth volunteers like me and for any of those in full-time ministry.

A wise choice
Kids face so many difficult challenges in today's chaotic culture. Andy Stanley talks practically and from the heart to help teens to live victoriously in the middle of this generation. One especially helpful checkpoint is encouraging teens to make wise choices and showing them how. Rather than telling kids that they're making wrong choices, they can consider making the wisest choice in any situation. This builds them up rather than cutting them down. It nourishes the spirit rather than stifling them. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Within the pages of this plainspoken Bible, young readers will find a year's worth of teen-written devotionals, one for every day of the work week. For example, in the opening section on Genesis, teens will find a shaded box for Monday's devotional, asking the reader what it means to be made in God's image. "Do you ever put yourself down for the way you look? What are you saying to God when you put down what he made?" Little boxes of text are inserted throughout the Scripture, where teens either suggest devotionals or discuss themes in the Bible. In another box, teens comment on the relationship between Adam and Eve: "The 'two becoming one' thing involves a lot more than sex. It involves two lives becoming one--two stories becoming one."The language, graphics, and frank discussion in this teen-oriented Bible make it a great resource for youth groups. It also makes a loving gift for teenagers who need help understanding how the Bible translates into the stressful world of adolescence. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Excellent devotional bible
This is an excellent devotional Bible.The first reviewer who doesn't like the Bible because it condemns witchcraft is completely ignorant of New Testament Greek, and seems to dislike anything that cramps their lifestyle or beliefs.The NIV is an excellent translation based on the oldest and best manuscripts and translatedby people who actually know Greek, and don't use alternate definitions that don't reflect the true text in order to make things that are condemned by the Bible seem accaptable.If you want your kids to learn what the Bible says, and not what a Wiccan wants it to say, this is a great devotional Bible.

When will Bibles ever be translated with accuracy
Our world is so filled with miss and false information I am again shocked by the blatent false translations that show up for Christian readers.I was doing a research project on Witchcraft of which there is so much mis-information out there it is amazing. Amazon popped up a reference in this book to Gal 5:20 which inserts the word "Witchcraft", in a list of things that are bad.

If you take the time to look up in a Greek Interlinerary you'll find the greek word is "farmakeia", meaning in essence "neuter
"ass" or "donkey".Has nothing to do with witchcraft.

Just like good ol' King James - changing "suffer not a "poisoner" (aka assasin) to live, to "suffer not a witch to live" this one old testiment change was used to kill and torture people. (The Dark Ages people - Christianity spread by blood, fear and torture - both Catholics and Prodestant "inquisitors".A history that has yet to be owned by the religions of the world.

Translators and religions have "NO" authority to CHANGE the Holy Scriptures, and this kind of garbage is the root of racism, hatered, misunderstanding, and discrimination on our planet.

They've all done this and unless your reading from an interlinerary your "intepretation" is subject to false teachings and translations.

Teach your kids to understand world religions and their people, don't build in biases that cause fear, hatered and division.

This book gets a two thumbs down.

If your going to write to kids, at least have the courage to translate based on accuracy of "Gods Word", don't present propaganda embedded translations as "The Word of God".

We have enough war going on the planet to deal with.In America we are offended when foreign countries teach their children to "Hate" Americans, and Christians and Jews because they mis-translate their religious writings and teach it with auhtority to their children.Christians are and have been doing the same here in America and around the world.This kind of "command and control" manipulation and false teachings have to stop.

This translation as well as the bible you probably have read from all your live, does just that - embeds false teachings and doctrines to support religious views not "God's Word", it's blasphemy at it's ugliest and it has been such since the beginning.Do your own research, don't take my word for it, and quit being sheep, take responsibilty for "truth".Contextually a "sheep" can never become a Shepard.Your a "Child of God" - consider this context - your not to be a sheep, you are to "Grow up!". Next time someone wants to be your "Shepard" think about any sheep you know that can be promoted to that position...Don't be a sheep.It's time for that baloney and false teaching to also be recognized for what it is.

Don't bias your kids with false doctines, it just is not right.Take the time to get it right.

Most of you who may be reading this review may not see or understand this because you have been raised from birth with religious falsehoods and biases taught to you as "The Word of God", the cover of most Bibles say "King Jame's Version" or based there, read the cover, and you'll see who's it is.Besides, Jesus nor the Apostles were "Greek", dah, think about it.

Good stuff in the bible, Jesus's life amazing - he set a powerful example in his life - any scripture, doctrine, dogma or teaching that goes against his life example should be researched and viewed with a critical eye.

Learn the Divinity Filter from "The Church of What Works" to sort out Divine teachings from man made and inspired manipulations.

Teach your kids not to fear, teach them love, teach them their power as Christians - teach them to be healers - teach them Jesus' example.Do the same yourself :)

God bless you all, in Jesus' name or by whatever tradition you can relate too.

- David

w w w . t h e c h u r c h of w h a t w o r k s . c o m

This bible is so good, I just keep buying it
When my kids asked to buy their own bible five years ago I was so excited.We got right in the car and went to the Christian bookstore.My kids looked at several student and teen bibles, and this is the one they chose.It is an awesome blend of devotions, teen stories, neat information, and the Bible in contemporary english.They were immediately attracted to the bold colors and the layout.We purchased two.

Through the years we have had an opportunity to buy or suggest this bible to other teens, too.Cousins, friends, and youth at the church.I think I have personally purchased about 6 of them.Buy one for your teen!You won't be disappointed!

Excellent Study Bible geared toward today's teens
My teenage daughter got bored and frustrated with her King James study Bible; this Bible has been such a blessing to her because of it's readability and understandability.Let's face it...the KJV of the Bible is difficult and tedious even for the most scholarly person...what's important is that my daughter now immerses herself in the Word and reads it daily.I highly recommend this Bible as a gift to your favorite teeneager; It brings the Word alive and is geared especially toward teenagers.

Great!
The Bible part of this book is just like any other- and that is how it needs to be! On top of that though, this Bible contains devotionals, and a great index, and also a place where you can mark off the sectionsof the Bible once you've read them. I really recommend this one for any of you who are shopping for teenagers. ... Read more

Book Description

Mia would give all the jewels in Genovia for the perfect present

Every year, Princess Mia spends the holidays in Genovia with Grandmère. This year, she's looking forward to the most perfect Christmas ever: her boyfriend, Michael, and her best friend, Lilly, are coming to Genovia, too.

But even a princess's plans can go awry. Lilly has a lot to learn about palace protocol, and with all the state holiday functions Mia must attend, there's no time to linger under the mistletoe with Michael. Worst of all, Mia hasn't been able to find him the perfect gift.

Can Mia stop her (bah-hum)bugging long enough to see that the perfect present has nothing to do with international express courier -- and everything to do with real love? (Though some shiny silver ribbon never hurts ...)

Reviews (13)

Great for Teenagers and their Parents
I wasn't expecting a whole lot when I picked this book up. Perhaps a tongue and cheek take on the dating scene. However I found a lot of depth and insight that is Christian based but not a glaring fire and brimstone, you will go to hell sermon.

It's well written, funny, and has some good examples. However, the book is aimed toward the high school crowd. If you're a teenager, check it out. If you're a parent of a teenager, definitely get it, read it, and use it as a basis to start talking to your kids about sex and dangers therein. If you're none of the above, and did all the bad things in high school the book warns you against go ahead and look into it. Then if you're a guy get John Eldredge's, Wild at Heart.

And if you are not part of the sex crazed teenage population and have been offended by the portrayl of men and women's feelings and attitudes expressed by the authors, I'm sure they're sorry. You have fought the good fight and have my utmost respect. However, with the way divorce and teenage pregnancy rates are going, the views conveyed in this book have merit.

GREAT
This book is a must read for teens as well as adults. It opens both girls and boys up to each others minds, and lets you see the reality. It tells the whole truth- ugly and good, but everything the book is about is something that every girl and guy should know. Justin and Hayley have done just an awesome job with this book, and everyone should read it. It's amazing!

Honest, Funny, Enlightening
I liked this book because it really doesn't sugar coat that much. It honestly tells it how it is. They tell you the truth about how each of the sexes act, and tips on how you should act accordingly. This book shows that in playing the dating game, how some things will end up, or how to know when to say no.

Gender roles perpetuated
Why is everything in this book about the male being dominant and the female submissive? Allow me to insert some excerpts. At one point, the author states that "this whole women's lib thing has less to do with women getting rights and more to do with men becoming pansies." Skewed, homophobic logic drives sentiments like this. The girl is "strong" so the boy must be gay. Most of the second half of this book is about outdated, stereotypical roles of boys and girls. The boy should pay ("going dutch" on the relationship quiz bumps you very close to the "Wake up!" category, which states that "This relationship is definitely destined for failure. Get out while the getting is good.")
"If you dress like a piece of meat, you're gonna get thrown on the BBQ." I'm appalled. While I do believe there are certain limits on reasonable attire for anyone, I refuse to believe that women who are confident and comfortable with their bodies should be pestered because some random man walking down the street sees her and can't control his raging hormones enough to suppress the totally unnecessary whistle that follows. So maybe when boys run around with their shirts off, girls watch. But others don't call them a whore for it.
To me, the "What's Your Type" quiz is totally ridiculous. The instructions say "Mark the space by the things you prefer in your man." Some traits are denoted by flowers, others by skull and crossbone symbols next to them. Hmm, now which am I supposed to choose? Furthermore, what ARE some of these good qualities? "Goofy, no girlfriends, calls all the time, no piercings, gives lots of compliments, you're his life, intelligent, barely touches you, popular, needs you." In comparison, the bad qualities include traits such as "tattoos, quiet, piercings, HAS HIS OWN LIFE, artistic, mysterious, loner, can get along without you." Why is it that a relationship should be two unpierced, booksmart but not creative, excessively social people who need eachother and refuse to do anything without one another? Relationships are like Venn diagrams, they intersect in some places, but there are differences too. What's the point of dating someone who can't get along without you, who has no life of their own, etc? Why not just date yourself, at least you'd never stand yourself up.

Repeatedly encouraging males to "be a man" and not "a pansy" while also enforcing the idea that men control relationships basically just reaffirms the old stereotypes of provider vs child-bearer, as well as telling men that it's okay to hate women and gay people. I mean, no one wants to be a pansy, right? And making an attack on someone's masculinity by calling them a girl (...) only shows that the people who talk like this don't see any potential for equality between men and women.

A MUST Read for anyone of dating years
A fantastic book about the realities of dating. A must read for any and all teenagers (not bad for a dating adult either). Sound advice written in an very enjoyable easy to read format. Give it to every teenager in your life. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Timeless biblical stories are lovingly brought to a child's level inthis read-aloud treasury. Editor William Bennett (The Children's Book of Virtues)starts with "Daniel in the Lion's Den," a story that epitomizes the courage ittakes to stand firm in one's faith. While he also includes the story of "TheLittle Lost Lamb" (based on Luke 15: 3-7), Bennett is broad-minded enough toinclude numerous other stories that touch upon the meaning of faith withoutbeing biblical in origin. For instance, young readers will be exposed to greatwriters such as Leo Tolstoy in the short story "Where Love Is, God Is" and OscarWilde in "The Selfish Giant." Although the old-fashioned style of illustrationswill no doubt feel nostalgic for some, they are also a throwback to a time whenwhite folks were the only people represented in children's Christian literature.Even Moses has light skin. One of the few characters to actually have color inhis face is the bald, brown-skinned devil. A shameful lapse in an otherwisenoble attempt. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Excellent for both children and parent
I found this book just incredible. The stories are just wonderful for teaching the children valuable lessons and virtues. It's hard to explain the book, other than that my kids enjoyed hearing them, I enjoyed reading them, and the lessons in the stories challenge both child and parent alike.

Could have been broader
Nicely done. It is difficullt to find good books that teach the virtues of faith without being heavy handed. I would have liked a few more faith stories from non-Christian traditions. My seven year old is enjoying it.

FAITHFUL!
This beautiful, gently written and illustrated book will certainly appeal to all ages. It is a delightful presentation of Christianity and, I think, provides a gentle overview of Christian concepts. Young readers will especially appreciate the illustrations. This book is an excellent teaching tool and a good way to form conversations regarding to Christian faiths. It is a treasure and a wonderful part of any family. I really love this book.

Inspirational; not just for children
Where is the greatest source of wisdom in today's society? Despite the common cries of cultural despair, William Bennett has rightly identified the Bible as the source of the moral tenets which we aim to inspire in our children. Although the stories are written in simple, accessible language, children and adults of all ages will be moved and inspired by the simple truths contained herein.

Enlightning
This is one of the great books for children. Besides being entertaining it is educative as well. It works towards improving ones knowledge and faith. This book is a must read and should be there in every family.Some of the chapters are just great and personaly I just loved the book ... Read more

Reviews (6)

The Twelve Steps for Christians
My husband and I previously read this book and were very impressed. We are both in recovery and were avid believers in Jesus Christ. All of the traditional recovery books were vague in their spirituality, and we could relate and grow from this book. We currently use this book in our ministry, which is a recovery ministry in our church. We see many other people being blessed from it as well. I think people that have not had to deal with different addictions/bondages in their lives, could benefit from the steps/tools that are available in this book!

Truly a blessing from God.
This is exactly what I have been looking for. What better sorce to go to than the Word of God to look for healing. He is the author and finisher of our faith.

Build a Group on the 12 Steps for Christians
My wife and I joined a 12-steps Sunday school group using this book about a year ago. We both have had to deal with alchoholism in our families, as well as a lot of other hurdles. The book and the class have been a very good way for us to finally work through these and many other issues. The book and the class have facilitated a great deal of healing for me.

Some of our class members are in recovery for alchohol or drugs, others have various issues, but all are welcome. Our class is taking it slowly, it takes about 3 weeks to work through each of the steps. The group adheres to the principles of confidentiality and annonymity, to the point that my wife and I don't discuss the class if one of us misses and the other attends. On the other hand, the class has become a source of spiritual and emotional strength for many of us.

I strongly recommend this book (and it's companion workbook) for anyone seeking to organize a Christian 12 step program, and/or to expand their church's adult ministry. Go with God's grace.

non-denomaddictional resource is perfect for church group
The Twelve Steps for Christians book is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in beginning a 12-step ministry within their church. I've coined a new phrase of "non-denomaddiction" to refer to the vast variety of people's struggles which can benefit from the reading of this book. Our group reads one step a week with the remainder of the hour spent in discussion of what we read. I am pleased to report that our group consists not only of recovering alcoholics or drug addicts, but also of people dealing with food addictions such as anorexia and bulimia. Other non-denomaddictions include adult children of alcoholics, obsessive controlling behavior, anger management, recent divorce, battles with depression and difficult parenting issues. The class is developing in to a fellowship and members truly look forward to each meeting and feel uncomfortable if they miss one. This type of fellowship is the missing bridge that people in the throes of pain and suffering need to feel Gods love working in their lives. I recommend this book and it's more in-depth companion "A Spiritual Journey". Just remember that building this type of fellowship takes great patience on the part of the facilitator. Members need time to grasp the concepts written within the steps before they are able to assist in building the ministry, after all, anononymity is the spiritual foundation of any 12-step ministry and it takes a great leap of faith to be willing to be visible.

A powerful tool in a life changing process.
The Twelve Steps For Christians has given me so much insight into the scriptures and applying them to my everyday life. I have been practicing a recovery program for ten years and this book enhances and re-enforces the principles that I endeavor to apply to my life in a progressive manner. I have shared this knowledge with friends and we have used it as a study guide. This book is a powerful tool for those interested in growing spiritually and experiencing a life changing process. ... Read more

Book Description

PREGNANCY AND BIRTH-GOD'S MIRACLE OF CREATION ALL OVER AGAIN.Before I Was Born is the second book in the GOD'S DESIGN FOR SEX series, written to be read with children ages 5-8.With an age-appropriate, straightforward text and informative illustrations, Before I Was Born explains sex as a special gift God gives to a husband and wife and covers such topics as: 1) Why God made boys' and girls' bodies different; 2) God's plan for loving marriages and families; 3) The basic facts about intercourse, presented in the context of marital love and intimacy; 4) Conception and fetal development; and 5) Childbirth and breastfeeding.Created to answer the questions inevitably asked by young children, Before I Was Born will help you give your child a vital head start in understanding God's intended purpose for procreation and sex. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

very appropriate for Christian families
I had a hard time finding a book that I was comfortable giving to my 8 year old daughter, but this book did the job! We are a Mormon family, and I am very happy with this book, as it puts sex into the context of being a gift from God for husbands and wives. It refers to Bible scriptures, and discusses sex as a way to begin a family within marriage. The pictures are beautiful watercolors, so they aren't shocking for a child to view. It explained how sex works, and helped to begin a comfortable discussion with my daughter. I am very impressed with this book, and would recommend it to anyone wanting to begin a similar discussion with their children.

overwhelmingly Christian
The info is complete, but I could really do without the preachy Christian world view.

Having said that, if you are a devout Christian and a frustrated with having you beliefs undermined, then this is the book for you. Good knowlege, and solid writing.

For Everyone Else: a better pick would be:
Where Do Babies Come From?: For Ages 6 to 8 and Parents (Learning About Sex Series, Bk. 2)
by Ruth S. Hummel,

Both books are solid picks for Public and School Libraries, dependant on your service area

Informative at a childs level
My husband and I have two boys under the age of ten and we are facing issues with sex. Our children are hearing about sex from children at school and on the bus. We are a Christian family and want our children to have Christian views on something so important. We bought the whole series and our boys now have all the answers they need from us. Thank you so much for this series.

An Important Topic about an important issue
To the parents who wrote that children ARE NOT thinking about these issues, you are really fooling yourself and in denial. I'm certainly not pleased to be facing this topic with my seven year old, however children are questioning these issues a lot sooner than we ever did.
This book is a good tool to explain to an already inquisitive child.

why bother?
There is no point to these books. kids that are 5-8 really dont care about sex and the consequences. They wont remember it, and by the time that they start to care, they will most likely be atheists anyway. God has nothing to do with sex. Your creationism ideals are old-fashioned and have no place in modern society. The facts are that the human race was produced from natural selection and survival of the fittest. Kids are going to have sex anyway, no matter how much you preach to them. You shouldn't force your childern into your own religious dogma. If you really need to teach children about sex talk to them yourselves instead of having a lifeless substitute. ... Read more

Book Description

Billy Bartholomew has an audacious soul, and he knows it. Why? Because it's all he has left. He's dead.

Eddie Proffit has an equally audacious soul, but he doesn't know it. He's still alive.

These days, Billy and Eddie meet on the sledding hill, where they used to spend countless hours -- until Billy kicked a stack of Sheetrock over on himself, breaking his neck and effectively hitting tilt on his Earthgame. The two were inseparable friends. They still are. And Billy is not about to let a little thing like death stop him from hanging in there with Eddie in his epic struggle to get his life back on track.

Reviews (5)

My Opinion on The Sledding Hill
Mr. Chris Crutcher is still one of my favorite writers, but The Sledding Hill is not one of my favorite books. I am in tenth grade and I mostly agree with the person who posted the very first review of the book. The story of The Sledding Hill is pretty simple, and the other reviews say it right so I will not repeat. I will only give my opinion on the book. It is better than a lot of books and that is why I give it three stars. I think the first part is four stars and the second part is two stars which is how I got to three stars. I thought that the first part was a lot about the friendship of Eddie and Billy and how hard it is for everyone to deal with tragedy like two people dying on you. But later, when the story got into the whole censorship thing about the book, I started to lose interest. It is not because I am not interested in the subject, either. I am totally into free speech. I just thought the book got less interesting, not like Stotan which got more interesting as it went on.

Richie's Picks: THE SLEDDING HILL
"I can bump him, and I will, because the one thing that is as true out here as it is in the Earthgame is connection. Connection is love. Staying connected with Eddie Proffit is as good for me as it is for him, because love is as true on earth as it is in the farthest reaches of the universe.

"So I do it."

"Just Do It." --Nike slogan

In KING OF THE MILD FRONTIER: AN ILL-ADVISED AUTOBIOGRAPHY, Chris Crutcher recognizes Michael Jordan as a hero--not for his legendary on-court accomplishments, but for the manner in which Michael responded to the brutal murder of his father. Chris notes of Michael:

"When asked about his feelings for his father's killers or what should happen to them, in the only recount I ever heard, all he said was, 'My father is dead. That's all I care about.'"

In rereading Crutcher's autobiography I continue to be moved by Michael's response. I'm so touched by it that one day I'm going to make a point of giving Michael a big long hug.

It actually won't be "one day" since, according to Billy Bartholomew, there is no "time" where he now exists. Billy is the dead teenaged narrator of Chris Crutcher?s new novel THE SLEDDING HILL. And according to Billy Bartholomew, once me 'n Number 23 are both history I'll be able to hook up with Michael or anyone else who has come and "gone."

Life on Earth, as Billy explains it from his beyond-this-world perspective, is but a game, the Earthgame. Once you get to where he is, you "travel at the speed of imagination" and "laugh in wonder at all the crazy considerations you had while playing the Earthgame because you were so focused you thought things were important."

Nor are there emotions after death, Billy explains, other than a "pure joy of knowledge--and a sense of coming home."

What to many readers will be Billy's most shocking revelation from beyond the grave is that everyone who dies ends up IN THE SAME PLACE! That means me and James Dobson, Tucker Carlson, and Bull Conner are all going to get to spend eternity sharing the same celestial real estate with (formerly) practicing homosexuals and hippies, independent film makers, blasphemers, Bin Ladens, black people, and banned book authors.

Chris Crutcher is a runner, as are so many of the characters he's created over the years. Crutcher's been spending a lot of his time lately running around the country defending his good name and his great books which are being challenged so frequently that you've got to figure there?s some serious hit list out there making its way to right-wing pulpits around the country.

Of course, there's supposed to be a separation of Church and State, at least in theory. That wasn't the reality when it came to Crutcher's own childhood experiences--as he recounted in KING OF THE MILD FRONTIER--and it sure doesn't seem to be the case today if you?ve paid attention to as many recent articles about book bannings as I have.

Many of the childhood stories of religion and death that Crutcher includes in his autobiography find their way into the plot of THE SLEDDING HILL. And if you've read the autobiography you realize there are going to be a bunch of huffing, puffing, scowling preachers when they start getting an earful of Billy Bartholomew.

But they're going to have a bit of a problem deep-sixing this baby. Crutcher?s written a book without ANY "naughty" words. Not a single f-word, sh-word, n-word, b-word, or a-h word. If they want to ban THE SLEDDING HILL from school libraries, they're going to have to get it banned because of Billy Bartholomew?s blatantly blasphemous revelations.

And that's the catch, because in Board of Education, Island Trees Union Free School District No.26 v. Pico, the landmark 1982 Supreme Court case concerning school-library censorship (I quote from Russell Freedman's IN DEFENSE OF LIBERTY: THE STORY OF AMERICA'S BILL OF RIGHTS.),

"[T]he court held that students' rights were violated by removal of the books and said that a school library provides 'an environment especially appropriate for the recognition of First Amendment rights of students.' "School officials have a great deal of power to decide which books should be in their school libraries, but they ?may not remove books from school library shelves simply because they dislike the ideas contained in those books,' said the Court. 'Allowing a school board to engage in such conduct hardly teaches children to respect the diversity of ideas that is fundamental to the American system.' "

Now along with the recent book banning news stories, there have been some pretty articulate words from certain teens who feel the same way about having their school libraries raped by the Religious Right as I felt about the Nixon White House invading the offices of the antiwar group I belonged to when I was their age.

As recently explained so articulately in the Kansas City Star by a Kansas high school student named Sasha Mushegian,

"It's true that some words and ideas should not be introduced to students who have not reached a certain level of maturity. But the amount of sheltering these parents are trying to accomplish is more appropriate for elementary school children than for people capable of earning wages, taking college-level courses and driving cars. These are all actions that require a degree of personal responsibility and capability of rational thought that these parents seem to think we lack.
"Yes, we're not completely mature yet; sure, we often make bad decisions--but maturation is a process. There's no magical age at which we mentally and emotionally become adults.
"How can you expect children to mature if you don't expose them to books in which reality is messy and confusing, morals are not immediately clear, making the right decision requires analysis of subtleties, and characters make the wrong choices? How do you expect students to think for themselves if you never expose them to situations that are challenging and unfamiliar (yet still safely contained within the pages of a great work of literature)?"

I can easily see all this leading us toward another Supreme Court showdown to determine whether in reality we're a theocracy or a democracy.

Then on the other hand, I can just imagine some overly-pierced, black-attired, parentally-oppressed young person reading all of this discussion, rolling his or her eyes, and impatiently wanting to know the important stuff:

"Come on, Richie! Who the f--- cares what those right-wing a----s are b----ing about now? Just tell us whether the new Crutcher book is worth a sh--!"

Okay, well, as a matter of fact it is. THE SLEDDING HILL caused me to laugh a lot, cry a little, and exercise some brain cells.

"Everyone thought our friendship was odd; what was a smart kid like me doing hanging out with a kid with an IQ short of triple digits? Truth is, Eddie's IQ turned out to be off the charts. His mind bounces from one thing to the other pretty much however it wants, though, and long before he should be finishing up one thought, he's on to something else. Eddie doesn't come to very many conclusions."

Longtime friends Eddie Proffit and Billy Bartholomew like to run. It's the one thing that can keep Eddie's mind focused. But then--in a rather short period of time--Eddie discovers both his dad and his best friend Billy dead from totally random accidents. And things go downhill from there when Eddie's nemesis, the Reverend Tartar, starts hanging out with Eddie's grieving mom.

Fortunately, Eddie discovers something that begins to help him get his mind around what has happened in his life. No, it's not a controlled substance--it's a book.

And, unfortunately, you can guess what the Rev. and his followers from the Red Brick Church want to do to that book.

Enough said. I recommend taking it for a spin. (But remember to turn INTO the slide.)

Another great story from Crutcher
Chris Crutcher's latest novel tackles the same types of tough issues as his earlier novels--this one focuses on censorship and the "moral crusaders." Veiled in a story of a boy who loses his family and friends, Crutcher makes a stirring commentary--as he always does. The characters are engaging and sympathetic--Crutcher as always tells the story from everybody's eyes, showing that all characters have a range and depth and their own emotional crises. He even goes so far as to make himself a character in the story, which is, albeit somewhat cheesy, a way to direclty relate to the characters and insert some soliloquoys on censorship.

One of the major thoughts that comes out of this story is telling stories "in their native tongue," as Crutcher says. That idea keeps the story fresh and real, and while sometimes the details and the language is a little rough around the edges, the story is richer for it. The Sledding Hill doesn't pretend to be anything it isn't--it's a story wrapped up in a discussion of censorship--something that Crutcher has seen his share of. Gabriel Garcia Marquez said, "To an extent, all great literature is subversive." This book definitely fits the mold.

At last...a book about censorship that tells the truth.
It's not JUST about censorship, of course.THE SLEDDING HILL is about friendship, life, death, love and loss, religion and the abuse of power. It's rich with thought and plot, as are all Crutcher books.But what I love most about it is the way it illustrates the quiet connection ONE PERSON can find in ONE BOOK -- and the dangerous nature of taking that book and that connection away from the kids who might need them most.Crutcher also explores the life-after-death endurance of love between two friends, between parents and children, and the hope for eternal reunions. I loved this book. Oh, and about the other reviewers comments...Crutcher didn't say all ministers are misguided.He said THIS minister, who wanted to determine morality for ALL parents, not just for himself, was miguided, even if he was trying to ban a book with good intentions. And of course, there are men of God who forget "Thou shalt not judge" when they step into those ministerial shoes. Crutcher understands how important free agency is, even if his character the Rev. Tarter forgets.

A lot of Speeches!
I was so happy when I heard there was a new Chris Crutcher book coming out. I loved Sarah Byrnes so much, and Whale Talk too. In this book, there are two friends named Eddie and Billy. Billy is like the one person who sees all the good in Eddie and knows how to talk to him. Eddie's father dies, and then Billy dies too, and Eddie stops talking. There is a Christian minister named Reverend Tartar who wants to baptize Eddie. The reverend is also against a Chris Crutcher book in one of the school classes. The best part of the book is Billy talking to Eddie after he is dead. He's very funny. What is not as good is how bad a guy the author made Tartar. He is so evil, and to have this evil guy be the person against the Crutcher book seemed kind of unfair.He is like the worst reverend ever and is a racist, too. There were also way too many speeches in this book, especially at the end. There were speeches in church and speeches at the school meeting and even a short speech by Chris Crutcher where he said he agreed with another speech. I thought all the speeches hurt the book. All in all, this is an okay book, but not nearly as good as Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes. ... Read more

Book Description

Reading to young children helps foster strong emotional bonds. Spending time together discussing the stories and interacting with the pictures also helps kids internalize the Word of God. Younger children will enjoy studying the pictures and watching the words as parents read them; early readers may want to read the stories on their own. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Read with Me Bbile
I picked this book up as an impulse buy about three years ago and began reading it to my then two year old daughter. At first I was a bit surprised by the violence of the stories. (The scarry snake in the garden of Eden, Abel killed his brother Cain, God flooded the world and everything living thing was wiped out, etc). After comparing it to a full version Bible, I realized how closely it follows the real text. And so we continued reading, with me doing some pretty heavy editing.

Well, my daughter just loved her Bible book. It wasn't long until we had read the whole thing cover to cover. Not only did we read it through another time or two, she then had her favorite stories that we read night after night.

Now that her brother has turned two, we've started from the beginning again. He's not quite as intranced as she was... I think we're dealing with a different level of attention span. But he's listening and it's quality time.

Everybody's right... the pictures in the book are great; the kids love them. It's not an "alls-happy-with-the-world" book of bible stories, but it is true to the full versions they'll be studying later.

I'm going back to buy a second book as ours is completely worn out and pages are falling out.

This Good Book is a Good Book
Recommended Age: 3-5 (the back of the book recommends 4-8). I have to disagree with the statements that this book's descriptions diminish the intent of the stories. Reading some of the stories of the bible to a child at that age is tedious enough. To bog the storylines down with detail at that age bores the child. They don't exactly have the patience of a "saint". I agree that this is a good preschool version though. By eight years old I was using an adult Bible and memorizing passages. I imagine my son will probably be pretty bright at that point also. I seriously doubt he will be using this Bible except as a cross reference. As for the book itself the illustrations are rather entertaining and in some cases comedic. They are very colorful and eye-catching for a 3-5 year old. As stated before, the storylines are easy to follow and don't dwell to deeply which caters to night time reading when a child is most receptive to stories. Another plus is that it intelligently smoothes the corners on some of the more violent or touchy subjects within the text of a standard Bible. If you want the whole story including the graphic nature of Christ's death you should just buy a regular Bible and attempt a translation for you child. Personally, I don't feel a child the age of three necessarily needs a detailed description of what a scourging with a metal tipped whip is or the knowledge that spikes were driven into His hands. Allow children to be children and innocent for a few years. The brutality of human violence and stupidity will become painfully evident as they get older anyway. All in all I thought this was an excellent, entertaining, educational first Bible for teaching my son the Word of God. Hope those that read this post will find it to their liking also.

Read to Me Bible
We have this Bible and it's great to read to small children. It is written so that kids can understand it and the pictures are excellent.

Nicely illustrated; oversimplified Bible stories
I find that my young sons pay better attention when I read Bible stories from a book with good illustrations. This book's illustrations are colorful and engaging. But the stories are simplified, sometimes to the point of diminishing the story's intended message.

Easy-to-read, attractive summary of Bible stories.
The stories are familiar, and the book is not a complete Bible. Struggling teen readers have read it like a "chapter book". Put it on a bookshelf with other books in a classroom or library and it will be pulled off and at least flipped through. It has also been chosen by adults who are emergent readers of English lacking the reading skills to delve into an NIV or Living Bible. The pictures look like animated drawings. Would make a nice gift for either type of reader. ... Read more

Book Description

Today I Was Baptized tells a heartwarming story of an infant's baptism and includes short essays about the sacrament of baptism, its origin and traditions. There is also room for you to record the story of your baby's baptism. You will enjoy reading and sharing this book with your child/children today and for years to come. The beautifully illustrated story is appropriate for children of all ages, while the essays are enlightening for older children and adults. The book definitely reflects ecumenism as it was written with guidance from both a Catholic priest and a Methodist minister. The book's endearing illustrations of babies, angles and the baptism celebration make it a valuable keepsake of this special day. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Super for all faiths!
I love this book!

It is beautifully illustrated and tells the story of Baptism with words and pictures that a child, as he or she grows, will understand.

There are pages in the back for parents to record thoughts and feelings from the special day, as well as pages for photos.

Thumbs up!

Today I was Baptized
I received this book as a gift for my sons Baptizim and I can not say enough about it. What a Wonderful keep sake. I have now purchased one for my daughter, and as long as this book is available, I do not have to think hard about what to get other parents for there Child's special day.

Great Mix of Religion
I gave this book as a gift to a family member who shares two different religious views between her and her spouse. This book is excellent on sharing the importance behind baptism and the different religious viewpoints. It is very easy to read to the child and the illustrations are beautiful. The other excellent point about the book is that it is very complete. The author has thought of everything - even a section for the special photos from the day! This is a great gift to give to anyone who is going to have a special day for their child.

Today I Was Baptized
This book was a special addition to the blessed day when two of our Granddaughters were baptized. It gives scripture and explains in depth why we are baptized. It enlightens anyone who reads it, and is a wonderful memento for the child. ... Read more

Book Description

This Bible features colorful illustrations and over 400 easy to read words that will have youngsters saying "I Can Read It!" ... Read more

Reviews (8)

An outstanding achievement, buy this and not a "spin off"
As an early childhood program director for a large church and the parent of children who were reluctant readers, I was truly impressed with this outstaning children's bible. It proved to be a favorite devotional bible in our household from age 4 through age 9.

V. Gilbert Beers is an expert in christian education and understands children's developmental needs. When it first came out, this bible nicely filled the gap between publications for early childhood and the primary grades. Beers has created a text that builds word upon word, skill upon skill, just as a good school reading series does. The biblical text is accurate and engaging and is accompanied by wonderful colorful illustrations that enhance the stories with visual cues that aid reading comprehension. I also found this bible is a good choice for older children with reading delays. The pages are laid out with children's visual skills in mind and are easily "taken in" by children with visual/perceptual difficulties. Each chapter ends with an interactive section of things to think about and try. Children can act on what they've read immediately, and that's what children like! I've known 4 years olds who can begin to read words from this text on their own, and six year olds that can master it and read it to their friends. I have recommended this book to dozens of parents and Sunday school leaders looking for an appropriate bible for chidren ages 4 through 8.

Don't bother with the "knock offs" you'll find with similar titles; they don't hold a candle to this original and best of it's kind. There are, however, two other worthwhile and engaging bibles I've found that pay close attention to fun use of language or reading skills: The Rhyme Bible, and the Growing Reader's Phonics Bible. But, the Early Readers Bible remains my all around favorite for this developmental group. A great choice for cozy bedtime reading aloud to your two through 9 year olds, too.

An Excellent Gold'n' Honey Book.
This is the type of Bible that not only is awesome for little children, but it is also great for the young and older teenager, Along with the Mature Adult(man & woman) who really never learned anything in CCD due to those silly controlling instructors, etc. If you want a fun, loving, inspirational and motivating Bible to learn about Jesus Christ, then this Bible is for You! The cartoon illustrations along with the selected Biblical stories are simplified so you may understand the big picture(that everything in life is about caring and love)." The Early Reader's Bible; A Bible to Read All By Yourself" is recommended to all parents, kids, teenagers, and adults. This is fun reading and emotionally touching. Get it!

wonderful
I exchanged The Eager Reader's Bible by Daniel J. Hochstatter and Daryl J. Lucas for this book, and am glad I did.

The illustrations are far more serious and respectful of the text than are those in Eager Reader, and the authors have created a short series of questions to follow each story, such as "Why should you try to please God in all that you do?" or "How do you know when something is bad?" The questions allow a parent or a Sunday School teacher to help young children reflect upon and absorb the Bible story he's just read or heard.

When I asked my 6 year old why we try to please God he answered with a question, saying, "Because God is our boss?" Although that would be a good answer for some (I'm not suggesting it's wrong) in my faith we lean toward the notion that we aim to please God because He is the ultimate source of wisdom and goodness. God knows what is right and what is wrong, and we try to please him in order to do right.

My son and I were able to talk about this only because the questions were there. I wouldn't have thought of them on my own, and I think the questions are both profound and developmentally on-target. The authors have insights into children's understanding of God that probably few of us parents do.

It is also the best choice for a new reader. My son is a just-turned-six year old who learned to read about 6 months ago. The book is designed along the lines of an "I Can Read" book. Each story has a short list of new words on the first page, and at the back of the book the authors provide a "Basic Words List" and a "New Words List." The back cover says that the text features "250 basic words used in public school early reader books" as well as "200 new words including Bible vocabulary, with fewer than five new words introduced in each story." My son can read this Bible on his own whereas the Eager Reader Bible would have been too hard.

This is a wonderful book.

Great bedtime reading with my 2 year old
Initially we started reading this to my toddler because he loved his Noah's Ark board books, and I wanted to read him a more in-depth story. Then, we've expanded to all the stories of the Bible. He now finishes the sentances for me! This is the book I will give all my son's playgroup frineds, as it is colorful and simple, yet interesting for them. As my son grows, it will be a simple move to step him up to a complete Bible. Even at 2 years of age, we have been able to talk about things in our Christian walk thanks to the discussion started with one of these stories.

Great for beginner readers
I bought this for my daughter who can manage lots of small words. This book is constructed so that it gives the child confidence in reading without lots of help. Each chapter introduces a new set of vocabulary words. The part that I really like is the review pages at the end of each chapter that test the comprehension of what has been read and that invite the child to consider how the story applies to his life. These have lead to some pretty great discussions with my daughter that I doubt I would have had otherwise. My only complaint is that the stories lack so much detail that my daughter often says "But what happened in between?" and "It says that God punished them, but how?" Even with that, though, this book is still a winner! ... Read more