Here's Lily -Review

 

 Here's Lily by Nancy Rue 

A big thanks to Tommy Nelson Publishing for letting me read this wonderful book. 

Summary from Amazon: 

Grow with the spirited, sometimes awkward, but always charming Lily as she learns what real beauty is.
In this fun, entertaining story, readers meet awkward sixth grader Lily Robbins who, after receiving a compliment about her looks from a woman in the modeling business, becomes obsessed with her appearance and with becoming a model. As she sets her sights on winning the model search fashion show, she exchanges her rock and feather collection for lip gloss, fashion magazines, and a private "club" with her closest friends. But when the unthinkable happens the night before the fashion show, Lily learns a valuable lesson about real beauty.
This best-selling, biblically based fiction series for girls-with a fresh new look and updated content-addresses social issues and coming-of-age topics, all with the spunk and humor of Lily Robbins as she fumbles her way through unfamiliar territory. As readers come to love Lily and her stories, they'll also benefit from the companion nonfiction books that will help them through their own growing pains.


Review:
I can't say enough about this wonderful book that helps young girls realize more than their confidence but helps them discover " God-confidence".  Lily learns throughout the book just what it means to be truly beautiful , that God created each of us differently but he finds each of us beautiful. Lily also learns that what we say  can also be used to bring about beauty or to dim that beauty. I really enjoyed how Lily's parents encouraged her to find God in all the things she did , such as the Modeling Show . It's so important to remember that God needs to be apart of everything we do , and that with him in our lives we can do anything , even face the bullies in the world. I also really loved how Lily became and example to other girls. Lily began to over come her lack of confidence  and others were able to see it . Over all, I would recommend this book to any young girl who needs to be reminded how wonderful she is, that God created her to be a uniquely beautiful  and that God is with you no matter the situation.

Come back tomorrow to check out The Beauty Book ..the companion book for Here's Lily

* I was given this book in exchanged for this review . I was in no other way compensated.


- This review can be found on Goodreads, Amazon, FB, And the blog

Big Girls Go Potty and Big Boys Go Potty- Review

 

Big Girls Go Potty by Marianne Richmond
 Ages 1 and up
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky 
Published: April 1, 2012





















 Summary from Goodreads:


Marianne Richmond's charming prose and cheerful illustrations bring a familiar look to the potty training experience. A warm, reassuring story showing your little one just how successful she'll be at going potty, Big Girls Go Potty features Marianne's trademark nuanced emotions and strong connection and offers a poignant teaching experience. Sure to become a favorite practical book with fans who adore Marianne's artwork and insightful prose, this book speaks directly to the little one, giving her an extra hug and big smile.

Review:
I read this book with my 2 year old and let me tell you she loved it . she takes Big Girls Go Potty, with her every time she goes to the bathroom ( we are in the middle of potty training so let me tell you this book came at the right time).  This book follows a little girl named Emma and her stuffed animal named Bear , as Emma is learning to use a big girl potty. The book was easy for my daughter to follow and very straight forward . You learn that Emma got to pick out big girl panties , and that when she goes to the potty like a big girl she gets stickers. My daughter loved the sticker part because we are using the same thing to reward her as well. I was really glad when it was explained that accidents happen and are a part of potty training . It was also wonderful to see that Emma's parents were proud of her as well in the end when she learned to go like a big girl. 




If you have a little boy that needs help with Potty training never fear .. Marianne Richmond has also put a book out for boys called Big Boys Go Potty 





Review:
Big Boys Go Potty follows a little boy named Daniel and his stuffed animal Lion. Like Emma ,Daniel   gets big boy undies and stickers for going to the bathroom . Daniel also learns that accidents sometimes happen and that you just have to keep trying . Through determination Daniel in the end learns to use the potty and his parents are so proud of him for being a big boy.

Both of these books I would highly recommend for any child who is learning to potty train . It was a wonderful addition for us. the illustrations were quite wonderful and straight forward, easy for any child to follow.

This review can be found on Netgalley, Amazon, Goodreads, FB,and the blog.

A Perfect Pet for Peyton

   





Summary from Goodreads:
This wonderfully imaginative children's hardcover book by bestselling authors Gary Chapman and Rick Osborne, featuring four-color illustrations (with hidden details!) by Wilson Williams, Jr., will help children learn the importance of love. Based on Gary's highly successful The 5 Love Languages®, A Perfect Pet for Peyton tells an entertaining and playful story of five children who each, with the help of Mr. Chapman and the unique pets at his special emporium, discover their own personal love language. Children and parents alike will experience firsthand the power of the love languages as they cuddle up and spend precious time together reading this book over and over again.

The cast of child characters in this whimsical story include: 

Peyton, one of the birthday celebrants, loves to help others, and appreciates it when others do little things for him.
Penny, Peyton's twin sister, who receives love best when others spend quality time with her.

Jayla, one of Penny's close friends, is always saying nice things about people. Her love language is words of affirmation.

Kevin, one of Peyton's close friends, enjoys giving things to people.

Sofia loves to pet the animals, and to show her love for others with special hugs.

Review:
I thought this book was absolutely wonderful . The story follows a set of twins , Penny and Peyton as they celebrate their birthday with friends, an a pet emporium. Through the story you learn about each of the kids and what there special love language is . I found it absolutely delightful that a love language had been created in such a fun way for younger children . As I mentioned before the story itself was wonderful , but the book did not just stop at the story . Each page had a little something more for the child to interact with . Every page there was a hidden insect to be found and on other pages there were animals to find and name . If the story and the interactions were not enough, at the back of the book one could find a quiz so the reader can learn what their special love language is.

I would highly recommend this book to children . It was such a neat way to show how each child is different and wonderful in a special way. .

* I received this book from Moody Publishing in exchange for my honest review.. no other compensation was given.


This review can be found on FB, the blog, Goodreads, Amazon , Barnes and Noble, and on the Moody Publisher review site.

A Love That Multiplies -Review

A big  Thanks to Howard Books for the chance to review this book:

 Summary from Goodreads:


In this second book from the Duggars, they focus on the principles that equip them to face life's challenges—drawing from their most recent challenge with the 3-month premature birth of their newest child, Josie. They also share the new challenges their older children are facing as they prepare for adult life. Central to the book is a section on the principles that the Duggars have consistently taught their children. These simply worded principles are basic to the Duggar family and are shared in a way that other parents can incorporate in their own homes. A special chapter on homeschooling gives valuable information to parents who are considering this route or are already invested in it. The world continues to be amazed by their nineteen well-groomed, well-behaved, well-schooled children and their home life, which focuses on family, financial responsibility, fun—and must importantly, faith. The Duggars show how parents can succeed whether they’re rearing a single child or several.

Review:
I will admit I haven't really watched the show on TLC about the Duggar family  but their book interested me , I wanted to learn a bit more about this family with all the kids  and how they do it.  I know over and over people have ridiculed this family and their beliefs , and honestly I do not agree with all their choices but one thing is for sure I admire their faith. In this book they talk about the birth and troubles surrounding baby Josie  and how the family pulled together. The faith and loyalty of this family is phenomenal , they pull together for everything  whether it's a birth , a tragedy or even just house work.  I really admire their attitudes as well, how when they have wronged each other or shown a mean spirit they always manage to remember to apologize  and understand they were not behaving correctly.  The work ethic and modesty that the parents have instilled for their kids is pretty amazing as well . Hands down regardless of what you think of this family or if you follow their beliefs I encourage everyone to check out this book . It was interesting to see into the life and experiences of a family that is as big as the Duggars. A final thing I really liked in the good as that they included some of their favorite recipes . ( can you imagine cooking for a family as big as theirs? )

'"I received  A Love That Multiples free from Howard Books, in exchange for my honest review . All opinions on this review are solely mine ."

This review can be found on amazon, Goodreads, the blog and the Facebook page

Sixty Acres and a Bride- Review

  

                                                Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings

 Summary fromGoodreads
With nothing to their names, young widow Rosa Garner and her mother-in-law return to Texas and the family ranch. Only now the county is demanding back taxes and the women have only three months to pay. Though facing eviction, Rosa can't keep herself from falling in love with the countryside and the wonderful extended family who want only her best. Learning the American customs is not easy, however, and this beautiful young widow can't help but catch wandering eyes. Where some offer help with dangerous strings attached, only one man seems honorable. But when Weston Garner, still grieving his own lost love, is unprepared to give his heart, to what lengths will Rosa go to save her future?



Review:

A wonderful tie in to the story of Ruth and Naomi. Rosa was such an easy character to relate to , she was so human and innocent in her ways, even naive and times . I loved how Weston felt that it was his job to take care of everyone to see to the well being of all . I found Weston and Rosa perfect for each other. Rosa had such a passionate spirit and Weston seemed to need a little stirring in his life. Rosa and Weston both were such loyal characters. I loved how the author Regina Jennings painted a picture how God can lead us where we need to be , how God can take a situation that might be wrong or harmful and turn it into something wonderful , into something right. I challenge everyone to check out this book and I look forward to seeing more from this author . She paints such a beautiful landscape , I easily fell in love with the land as well as the characters. Thank you Bethany House and Regina Jennings for the chance to read a wonderful book .

( I was given this book in return for my honest review)

My review is posted on Amazon, Goodreads, the blog and the Facebook page

Review of Prize of My Heart

 Prize of my Heart by Lisa Norato


Summary from GoodReads:
An unsolved mystery separates ex-privateersman Captain Brogan Talvis from his lost son--his only living relation, his only family. Shortly before her tragic demise, his wife abandoned their infant to strangers, refusing to reveal the child's whereabouts. Now, three years later, Brogan has discovered the boy at the home of a shipbuilder's daughter, Lorena Huntley.Lorena guards a dark secret about her young charge. She finds herself falling for the heroic captain who has come to claim his newly built ship, unaware his motive for wooing her is to befriend the boy he plans on reclaiming as his own--until the day another's evil deceit leaves her helplessly shipbound, heading toward England.As the perfect opportunity to reclaim his son unfolds, Brogan is haunted by thoughts of Lorena in her dire circumstance, and he is forced to make a heartrending choice between his child and the woman who has begun to capture his heart. But only his unselfish sacrifice can win him the greatest prize of all--love.

My review:

I was instantly draw into this book, The cover was both beautiful and intriguing, the woman o nthe cover seemed to have a secret or to be waiting for something or someone perhaps  . My heart became invested the very moment I read that Brogan was looking for a son that had been stolen from him. I wanted to know why Ben had been taken from his father and what kind of woman would do that to him. I really enjoyed watching Brogan grow in presence of Lorena.  I loved the way the author made it where you could see how Brogan watched Lorena's care of Ben.  Faith and God's timing was displayed so well in Prize of my Heart. Sometimes it's hard to trust , it's human nature to think we know how to fix everything , to take matters into our own hands.  God's plan is something Brogan and Lorena both have to learn in this wonderful book.  Author Lisa Norato  developed  this story that will draw you in . A story of Love,faith and  despite the evil of the world , trusting in God.  all the characters in Prize of my Heart  had some kind of secret and were more than meets the eye ,making for a intriguing story. A good wholesome adventure, I highly recommend it and look forward to reading more by Lisa Norato.


(This book was given to me by Bethany house for my honest review )


my review is posted on : Goodreads, Amazon, The Blog , and the Facebook Page.

Review: The Power of a Positive Mom

The power of a Positive Mom -Devotional and Journal
~52 Monday Morning Motivations by Karol Ladd


Summary from Goodreads:
In this portable gift book for busy moms, Ladd maintains that women can become the powerful influence in their children's lives that they've always wanted to be.

My Review:
I would like to start of saying this is a wonderful devotional for busy moms everywhere. I would say it took less than thirty minutes to get through my devotional for the day and really that is about all busy moms have time to do.
Each devotional for the week has a Key scripture, a couple little inspirational quotes, a mom reflection, a place to put your thoughts , a prayer , choices you can make based on what you have read , and then some further reading from the Bible. I found it refreshing to start my Monday's off with these little devotions . It's so easy as a busy mom to get down upon ourselves . There is even a devotional about the "super mom". The devotions are meaningful but quick and to the point..just what you need to tuck away in your mind to reflect upon as the week progresses.

I highly recommend this wonderful devotional for busy moms everywhere . What better way to bust the cranky Monday mornings then with a Scripture and encourage mom.

" I received a free copy of this book from Howard Books, for my honest review. All Opinions are my own "

My review is posted on the Blog, FB ,Amazon , and Goodreads.

Review: Miracle For Jen

Miracle For Jen

by Linda Barrick, Joni Eareckson Tada (foreword) , John Perry( Contributor)

Published : March 1st, 2012
Publisher: Tyndale Publishing House
Hard back 280 pages

(summary - Goodreads)
On the night of November 5, 2006, the Barrick family was driving home from church when their van was struck by a drunk driver. Fifteen-year-old Jen suffered multiple skull fractures and severe brain trauma and was not expected to survive the night. But against all odds, she did. As she lingered in a coma, doctors warned that if Jen ever woke up, she would be cursing and screaming in confusion due to her brain injuries. Instead, after five weeks she opened her eyes and began praying and praising God. Jen didn't remember her middle name, recognize her parents, or recall that she had a little brother, but she remembered Jesus and every word to every praise song and scripture she had hidden in her heart before the accident. As any loving mother would, Jen's mother Linda wanted God to heal Jen, make her like she was before. Normal. But a loving God had something else in mind--instead of making her normal, God is making Jennifer and the whole Barrick family--extraordinary, miraculous. Hope Out Loud is the remarkable true story of a family who overcame tragedy and learned to trust God's plan for their lives in a whole new way.


Review:
This book touched me profoundly which is what makes writing this review so hard , because how do you write a review about a book that rocks you to the core? , how can you properly convey that? I'm going to try to the best of my ability to explain what is so great about this book. Miracle For Jen to me was a modern relive story of Job. Many people believe that now days Miracle only happen to in the Bible, but after reading Miracle For Jen and seeing what this family persevered through , I don't know anyone can not believe in miracles.

As I read through this story , I became connected this with the family . They laid their hearts out in this book and showed their faith as well as there frailties. I loved how Jen's journals were shared as she began her quest for boldness before she ever was in the accident, it was a great insight and really shows you a bit of what God said " ask and you shall receive." God took what could have been a tragic and turned it into a Miracle . The pictures in this book shocked me and amazed me. Seeing the car and how mangled it was , their is no doubt that God's hand was upon this family that night and spared them to do great things.

The miracles didn't stop with just the survival of the family , but continued into their recovery. This book was that of faith and family in the middle of what could have been heartbreak . According to doctor's Jen should not have woken up like she did if not at all , it was incredible to read how clear her faith in God was , how she never once stumbled when God put the words into her mouth . I'm glad that I was able to see how the family dealt with all that was going on , I know as a mother its so very hard for us not to fix the pain when it comes to our children being hurt. It can be very hard to lose that control considering we think we know whats best for our kids , but in this book you get to see how a mother has to be reminded that there is a God that is bigger than we are and who better than to take care of our children than the one who created them .

I recommend , no scratch that, I dare you to read this book .. I dare you to embrace the fact that miracles still happen. I hope this book envelopes you the way it did me and that is changes the way you look at faith and perhaps Miracle For Jen will effect you like it has so many others.

GIVEAWAY!!!Want a chance to read this book for Free: Miracle Jen Giveaway

Her are a couple of links for you to check out :
Tyndale Publishing
Hope Out Loud
Get Jen's jewelry


(I was in no way compensated for my review other than receiving the book , all opinions are my own )
my review of Miracle Jen can be found : Goodreads, blog, Amazon, FB, Tyndale

BabyLit: Alice in Wonderland and Jane Eyre

I was privileged to get these two books Little Master Carroll- Alice and WonderLand and Little Miss Bronte- Jane Eyre , they are two books in a series of BabyLit books published by Gibbs Smith Publisher and Written by Jennifer Adams , illustrated by Alison Oliver.

I will start with my thoughts on the Alice and Wonderland book . This book was classified as a Colors Primer. The colors were vibrant and easy for a young child to follow along and to learn. I love how the classic stories are integrated in a easy way for young kids , bringing to life the stories we all know and love.

Jane Eyre was just as delightful as Alice and Wonderland, though the colors were not a bright , but that is ok cause Jane Eyre is a Counting Primer not a color one . I found the illustrations to be nice and whimsical and once again this book was a nice twist on the classic Jane Eyre , setting up some key ideas that as the reader gets older they would recognize the ideas in the original classic.

I highly recommend these books for young readers, and I will be looking into getting the rest of the series for my 2 year old .. she loved them.

Here are couple of the other books in the BabyLit series:
Little Master Shakespeare: Romeo & Juliet
Little Miss Austen: Pride & Prejudice: A Counting Primer

Review is posted on the Blog, FB, Amazon, Goodreads