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ABC the Bible Way
Tope Umah
2023 Gold Medal
36 Pages
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
ABC the Bible Way is a religious-themed picture book for children written by Tope Umah. Children usually learn the alphabet through association with images, animals, and objects. The author of this picture book has used themes and elements of the Bible to help children understand the Bible while they learn their alphabet. Each letter contains an association to an object along with a short story or paragraph which connects it to the Bible. The letter “b” is for Boat, specifically, the boat Jesus was sleeping in when a powerful storm came up and his followers woke him up, fearing they would drown. The letter “g” is associated with Goliath, the giant of the Old Testament who was defeated by David, who was sent by God. And “m” is for Moses, who feared his leadership role due to his speech difficulties but was entrusted by God to help the Israelites escape slavery.
Tope Umah’s ABC the Bible Way is a fascinating and well-presented work that introduces biblical themes to young readers while they learn the alphabet. The stories connected to each letter are fascinating and connect themes to those letters beautifully, and the accompanying illustrations take those lessons one step further. I especially appreciated the illustration for the letter “o,” which shows a young boy in a temple filling the lamps on a lampstand with olive oil, and the dramatic panel for “p” which shows Samson breaking free of the stone pillars to which the Philistines had chained him. Each letter and its accompanying story and illustration work quite well as mini-lessons in a biblical study for young readers. ABC the Bible Way is most highly recommended.
ABC the Bible Way is a religious-themed picture book for children written by Tope Umah. Children usually learn the alphabet through association with images, animals, and objects. The author of this picture book has used themes and elements of the Bible to help children understand the Bible while they learn their alphabet. Each letter contains an association to an object along with a short story or paragraph which connects it to the Bible. The letter “b” is for Boat, specifically, the boat Jesus was sleeping in when a powerful storm came up and his followers woke him up, fearing they would drown. The letter “g” is associated with Goliath, the giant of the Old Testament who was defeated by David, who was sent by God. And “m” is for Moses, who feared his leadership role due to his speech difficulties but was entrusted by God to help the Israelites escape slavery.
Tope Umah’s ABC the Bible Way is a fascinating and well-presented work that introduces biblical themes to young readers while they learn the alphabet. The stories connected to each letter are fascinating and connect themes to those letters beautifully, and the accompanying illustrations take those lessons one step further. I especially appreciated the illustration for the letter “o,” which shows a young boy in a temple filling the lamps on a lampstand with olive oil, and the dramatic panel for “p” which shows Samson breaking free of the stone pillars to which the Philistines had chained him. Each letter and its accompanying story and illustration work quite well as mini-lessons in a biblical study for young readers. ABC the Bible Way is most highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
. The first six verses of Psalm 19 explain that God’s creation shows His glory. Melanie Burgess shares this viewpoint in her children’s book, Fingerprints of God. This book is excellent for teaching your children Bible verses reflecting God’s glory and con...){kind=link}
Fingerprints of God
Melanie Burgess
2023 Silver Medal
36 Pages
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows his handiwork (Psalm 19:1). The first six verses of Psalm 19 explain that God’s creation shows His glory. Melanie Burgess shares this viewpoint in her children’s book, Fingerprints of God. This book is excellent for teaching your children Bible verses reflecting God’s glory and control in nature. Melanie shows that the sky, mountains, plants, and animals show God exists and has left His signature for all to see. As you read this book to or with your child, ask questions about noticing God’s hand at work in the world. For example, science says a bumblebee should not be able to fly, but it does. Is this not part of God’s fingerprint with some humor? In addition, this book shares many different species of animals that your child may not be familiar with. Use this as an opportunity to learn more about nature and the God of nature.
Not only is Melanie Burgess an outstanding creative writer, but she is also a talented illustrator. She writes about seeing God in nature and then illustrates her points. Your child will enjoy seeing the different animals and scenery. You can see the hand of God in all aspects of creation. Share with your child that God shows His existence and it is up to the individual to look for those fingerprints. True science never contradicts the Word of God. Melanie desires to share God and His love for His creation. She does this masterfully, and God will honor her work. Fingerprints of God is one book that needs to be on the shelf of every child who lives in a Christian home. Help your child understand that the God Who created the universe and everything in it is the same God that created and loves them.
The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows his handiwork (Psalm 19:1). The first six verses of Psalm 19 explain that God’s creation shows His glory. Melanie Burgess shares this viewpoint in her children’s book, Fingerprints of God. This book is excellent for teaching your children Bible verses reflecting God’s glory and control in nature. Melanie shows that the sky, mountains, plants, and animals show God exists and has left His signature for all to see. As you read this book to or with your child, ask questions about noticing God’s hand at work in the world. For example, science says a bumblebee should not be able to fly, but it does. Is this not part of God’s fingerprint with some humor? In addition, this book shares many different species of animals that your child may not be familiar with. Use this as an opportunity to learn more about nature and the God of nature.
Not only is Melanie Burgess an outstanding creative writer, but she is also a talented illustrator. She writes about seeing God in nature and then illustrates her points. Your child will enjoy seeing the different animals and scenery. You can see the hand of God in all aspects of creation. Share with your child that God shows His existence and it is up to the individual to look for those fingerprints. True science never contradicts the Word of God. Melanie desires to share God and His love for His creation. She does this masterfully, and God will honor her work. Fingerprints of God is one book that needs to be on the shelf of every child who lives in a Christian home. Help your child understand that the God Who created the universe and everything in it is the same God that created and loves them.
Recommend this book:
Smile Lil Peter, It's A Gift
Tasche Laine
2023 Honorable Mention
39 Pages
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
Surprise, the best Christmas gift is free. Lil Peter and his brother, Marty, visit their grandmother and learn how to be a whosoever. Tasche Laine and Peter Valdez understand what Christmas is about and share the importance of Christmas cheer in Smile Lil Peter, It’s a Gift. While their parents finish Christmas shopping, the boys enjoy a walk with their grandmother, spreading Christmas joy. Who would ever think giving away a candy cane and a smile could impact someone’s life? But the lives of the boys and those who received the gift of a Jesus cane and a smile were positively impacted. This story teaches how to be a whosoever and follows the trio’s adventures as they spread the true joy of Christmas. Encouragement has no cost, but it changes the mood and attitude of both the one encouraged and the one who encourages.
Tasche Laine and Peter Valdez share Christmas cheer in Smile Lil Peter, It’s a Gift. Mei Mei Leonard punctuates the text with great illustrations to draw your child into the story. This is a great resource to teach your children that Christmas is not so much about getting gifts as it is about giving. Christmas is about God’s greatest gift—Jesus Christ—and sharing his joy through little acts of kindness. Peter is taught the value of sharing a smile. The goal of this book is to help children learn good values while they are having fun. Through the actions of Peter and Marty, you can help your children learn about good deeds and helping others; it would be a rewarding family activity to go out and share candy canes with those on the street. With caution, helping your children to be kind will pay unbelievable dividends throughout their lives.
Surprise, the best Christmas gift is free. Lil Peter and his brother, Marty, visit their grandmother and learn how to be a whosoever. Tasche Laine and Peter Valdez understand what Christmas is about and share the importance of Christmas cheer in Smile Lil Peter, It’s a Gift. While their parents finish Christmas shopping, the boys enjoy a walk with their grandmother, spreading Christmas joy. Who would ever think giving away a candy cane and a smile could impact someone’s life? But the lives of the boys and those who received the gift of a Jesus cane and a smile were positively impacted. This story teaches how to be a whosoever and follows the trio’s adventures as they spread the true joy of Christmas. Encouragement has no cost, but it changes the mood and attitude of both the one encouraged and the one who encourages.
Tasche Laine and Peter Valdez share Christmas cheer in Smile Lil Peter, It’s a Gift. Mei Mei Leonard punctuates the text with great illustrations to draw your child into the story. This is a great resource to teach your children that Christmas is not so much about getting gifts as it is about giving. Christmas is about God’s greatest gift—Jesus Christ—and sharing his joy through little acts of kindness. Peter is taught the value of sharing a smile. The goal of this book is to help children learn good values while they are having fun. Through the actions of Peter and Marty, you can help your children learn about good deeds and helping others; it would be a rewarding family activity to go out and share candy canes with those on the street. With caution, helping your children to be kind will pay unbelievable dividends throughout their lives.
Recommend this book:
Grandma, Granddad, We Want to Praise God
Families Growing in Faith 3
Vanessa Fortenberry
2023 Finalist
30 Pages
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Munir Muhammad for Readers' Favorite
Grandma, Granddad, We Want to Praise God is written by Vanessa Fortenberry and illustrated by Sharon Grey. The author has captured that intimate exchange between Christian grandparents and inquisitive grandkids. This is a beautifully written picture book that describes the meaning of faith and love for God. This book follows children as they question their grandparents about how and when they should praise God. They want to know what praise is and how they should go about offering praise to God. The answers they received were sometimes surprising and the kids were astonished at all the ways they can show God thanks and praise every day.
In Grandma, Granddad, We Want to Praise God, each page shows a different question. The rhyming stanzas will engage and entertain young readers and make for fun family reading. Each situation can be read and discussed as its topic, making this a great story for young children as well. Kids will enjoy seeing how things they love to do each day, like singing, dancing, and attending church, are all ways that you can praise God. This lovely story will teach praise and worship of God gently and engagingly. The illustrations are done in a soft portrait style using a combination of bold and muted colors to create dynamic images that will capture the attention of children looking through this book. Grandparents and their grandchildren, as well as parents, guardians, and caregivers, will love the rhyming stanzas and tender illustrations of a child's natural curiosity and growing discovery that we can express praise through the good and the bad; anywhere or anytime; and with singing, dancing, shouting, and clapping. This engaging story will empower children in fostering habits of praise and thankfulness.
Grandma, Granddad, We Want to Praise God is written by Vanessa Fortenberry and illustrated by Sharon Grey. The author has captured that intimate exchange between Christian grandparents and inquisitive grandkids. This is a beautifully written picture book that describes the meaning of faith and love for God. This book follows children as they question their grandparents about how and when they should praise God. They want to know what praise is and how they should go about offering praise to God. The answers they received were sometimes surprising and the kids were astonished at all the ways they can show God thanks and praise every day.
In Grandma, Granddad, We Want to Praise God, each page shows a different question. The rhyming stanzas will engage and entertain young readers and make for fun family reading. Each situation can be read and discussed as its topic, making this a great story for young children as well. Kids will enjoy seeing how things they love to do each day, like singing, dancing, and attending church, are all ways that you can praise God. This lovely story will teach praise and worship of God gently and engagingly. The illustrations are done in a soft portrait style using a combination of bold and muted colors to create dynamic images that will capture the attention of children looking through this book. Grandparents and their grandchildren, as well as parents, guardians, and caregivers, will love the rhyming stanzas and tender illustrations of a child's natural curiosity and growing discovery that we can express praise through the good and the bad; anywhere or anytime; and with singing, dancing, shouting, and clapping. This engaging story will empower children in fostering habits of praise and thankfulness.
Recommend this book:
How Far is Heaven?
Amy Skala Tischmann
2022 Gold Medal
28 Pages
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Do you know how far away heaven is? When our loved ones leave us, we are told they go to heaven, but where is heaven? We assume it’s somewhere up there, but where exactly? Children aren’t the only ones asking these same questions, but how can we answer their questions about heaven? Simply put, it’s all about faith. We believe that our connection with our loved ones remains within us for all eternity. And that’s heaven: “Heaven is near, and yet Heaven is far./ Because Heaven, my dear, is wherever you are.”
Amy Skala Tischmann’s picture book story, How Far is Heaven?, follows a little boy’s questions about heaven. Tucked in bed, with his mom beside him, he wants to know where heaven is because that’s where his beloved Grandpa has gone. Told in rhyming verse, the author allows the little boy to begin the story with his poignant question, “How far is Heaven? … Is it really that far, Is it far, far away?” Mom has all the right answers. Some of her answers bring more questions, as thoughts of heaven and those we’ve loved and lost being within us can be confusing, especially since we can’t see what is within us and in the beauty of the world all around us. But these questions lead to more solid answers, told with compassion in a simple language with simple comparisons to help the little boy understand. The question/answer approach to developing this plot is told in rhyming verse with beautiful illustrations. Told with care and consideration of the mind of a child, the author has created a sweet story that is heartwarming and powerful, tender and reminiscent, all in one. This is a must-read many times over.
Do you know how far away heaven is? When our loved ones leave us, we are told they go to heaven, but where is heaven? We assume it’s somewhere up there, but where exactly? Children aren’t the only ones asking these same questions, but how can we answer their questions about heaven? Simply put, it’s all about faith. We believe that our connection with our loved ones remains within us for all eternity. And that’s heaven: “Heaven is near, and yet Heaven is far./ Because Heaven, my dear, is wherever you are.”
Amy Skala Tischmann’s picture book story, How Far is Heaven?, follows a little boy’s questions about heaven. Tucked in bed, with his mom beside him, he wants to know where heaven is because that’s where his beloved Grandpa has gone. Told in rhyming verse, the author allows the little boy to begin the story with his poignant question, “How far is Heaven? … Is it really that far, Is it far, far away?” Mom has all the right answers. Some of her answers bring more questions, as thoughts of heaven and those we’ve loved and lost being within us can be confusing, especially since we can’t see what is within us and in the beauty of the world all around us. But these questions lead to more solid answers, told with compassion in a simple language with simple comparisons to help the little boy understand. The question/answer approach to developing this plot is told in rhyming verse with beautiful illustrations. Told with care and consideration of the mind of a child, the author has created a sweet story that is heartwarming and powerful, tender and reminiscent, all in one. This is a must-read many times over.
Recommend this book:
A Lost Star Named Stella
A Children's Story About Learning To Follow God
Jackie Perucki
2022 Silver Medal
31 Pages
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Melinda Facal for Readers' Favorite
A Lost Star Named Stella: A Children’s Story About Learning to Follow God is an engaging and thoughtful Christian children’s book written by Jackie Perucki with illustrations by Larisa Ivankovic. This uplifting story shares the beautiful message that God loves each one of us and is a constant guide throughout our lives. In this story, we meet Stella the star who is lost and trying to find her way home. Stella seeks help from those around her, but they are not able to guide her home. Understandably, Stella is quite upset and saddened by the fact that she is lost, and no one can help her. Just when things are bleak and Stella is very weary, she is found and guided home by the maker of the stars.
Jackie Perucki’s A Lost Star Named Stella is a joyous read for children and readers of all ages. The heartfelt message of God’s love and concern for each one of us is beautifully captured through lyrical verse and is accompanied by lovely illustrations from Larisa Ivankovic. Children will relate to Stella and understand how frightened she must feel when she is lost, and no one can help her. There is a great sense of peace and comfort when the Bright Morning Star calmly helps Stella find her way home. Parents and caregivers will enjoy reading this inspiring story that shares the love and hope that God provides to each one of us. A Lost Star Named Stella succinctly and gently conveys the powerful lesson that God is always there for us if we only look to Him.
A Lost Star Named Stella: A Children’s Story About Learning to Follow God is an engaging and thoughtful Christian children’s book written by Jackie Perucki with illustrations by Larisa Ivankovic. This uplifting story shares the beautiful message that God loves each one of us and is a constant guide throughout our lives. In this story, we meet Stella the star who is lost and trying to find her way home. Stella seeks help from those around her, but they are not able to guide her home. Understandably, Stella is quite upset and saddened by the fact that she is lost, and no one can help her. Just when things are bleak and Stella is very weary, she is found and guided home by the maker of the stars.
Jackie Perucki’s A Lost Star Named Stella is a joyous read for children and readers of all ages. The heartfelt message of God’s love and concern for each one of us is beautifully captured through lyrical verse and is accompanied by lovely illustrations from Larisa Ivankovic. Children will relate to Stella and understand how frightened she must feel when she is lost, and no one can help her. There is a great sense of peace and comfort when the Bright Morning Star calmly helps Stella find her way home. Parents and caregivers will enjoy reading this inspiring story that shares the love and hope that God provides to each one of us. A Lost Star Named Stella succinctly and gently conveys the powerful lesson that God is always there for us if we only look to Him.
Recommend this book:
Above the Clouds
What Really Happens in Heaven During a Thunderstorm
Stephanie Barton, Carley Barton, and Sue Milon
2022 Bronze Medal
30 Pages
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite
Have you ever wondered what causes the thunder and lightning in a rainstorm? Is there a reason to be afraid? The charming religious-themed children's story, Above the Clouds: What Really Happens in Heaven During a Thunderstorm by Stephanie Barton, Carley Barton, and Sue Milon, eliminates the fear surrounding storms. Frightened when a storm wakes her from her sleep, Grace calls out to her mother to come and comfort her. With the thunder and lightning shattering the night around them, Grace's mother explains how the storm is nothing more than angels having a party in heaven. While the DJ Joy is playing loud music, the angels are dancing and stomping the night away. They are enjoying the party so much that their joy can be seen and heard here on earth. The lightning, thunder, and rain are only a manifestation of their celebration. Can Grace accept her mother's explanation? Do angels really dance in heaven?
Above the Clouds: What Really Happens in Heaven During a Thunderstorm by Stephanie Barton, Carley Barton, and Sue Milon is a delightful children's book with a religious theme. Beautifully illustrated, the pictures create a perfect complement to an enchanting story. I fell in love with the story from page one; the portrayal of the angels dancing and taking selfies was amusing and disarming, and the sweet, simple explanation of what makes a storm is soothing and cute. The collaboration of authors and artist is a match made in heaven. Superbly written, comforting, and adorable, this fabulous story will charm children of all ages.
Have you ever wondered what causes the thunder and lightning in a rainstorm? Is there a reason to be afraid? The charming religious-themed children's story, Above the Clouds: What Really Happens in Heaven During a Thunderstorm by Stephanie Barton, Carley Barton, and Sue Milon, eliminates the fear surrounding storms. Frightened when a storm wakes her from her sleep, Grace calls out to her mother to come and comfort her. With the thunder and lightning shattering the night around them, Grace's mother explains how the storm is nothing more than angels having a party in heaven. While the DJ Joy is playing loud music, the angels are dancing and stomping the night away. They are enjoying the party so much that their joy can be seen and heard here on earth. The lightning, thunder, and rain are only a manifestation of their celebration. Can Grace accept her mother's explanation? Do angels really dance in heaven?
Above the Clouds: What Really Happens in Heaven During a Thunderstorm by Stephanie Barton, Carley Barton, and Sue Milon is a delightful children's book with a religious theme. Beautifully illustrated, the pictures create a perfect complement to an enchanting story. I fell in love with the story from page one; the portrayal of the angels dancing and taking selfies was amusing and disarming, and the sweet, simple explanation of what makes a storm is soothing and cute. The collaboration of authors and artist is a match made in heaven. Superbly written, comforting, and adorable, this fabulous story will charm children of all ages.
Recommend this book:
The Adventures of Super Obi
Nothing to Fear
Dominique Okonkwo
2022 Honorable Mention
39 Pages
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Are you afraid of the things that go bump in the night? Of the shadows that mysteriously creep around the walls of your room? Are they monsters? Are they going to hurt you? It’s okay to be afraid, but we have to try hard to face our fears. That is what Obi had to learn. When Mommy tucked him in for the night and turned out the light, Obi started seeing all kinds of shadows on his walls. The moonlight coming in through his window was playing tricks on him. Or was it? Then there were strange shapes in his closet and a loud noise rumbling through the house. Someone was coming to get Obi and he was really scared. When he called out for Mommy, Daddy appeared at his bedside and helped him see things in a new perspective. It was all his wonderful, creative imagination. “I am special. And super,” said Obi. “Super Obi – that’s me!”
Dominique Okonkwo’s picture book story, The Adventures of Super Obi: Nothing to Fear, is a compassionate look at some of the fears we all face from time to time. Based on the author’s son, Obinna, the plot follows a young boy’s growing fears as his imagination takes over once the lights go out for the night. The plot thickens as each image he sees magnifies in scale until poor Obi can’t take it anymore and calls out for help. Like seeking God’s power, love and protection, young children reach out to those closest to them, their parents. Along with delightful illustrations, bright and colorful, the author helps young readers understand that they are not alone and with God on their side, they have their own secret superpower. The story ends with suggestions for a short quiet time and prayer time. With this interactive activity, children will feel their own superpowers, just like Obi. Beautifully told and presented.
Are you afraid of the things that go bump in the night? Of the shadows that mysteriously creep around the walls of your room? Are they monsters? Are they going to hurt you? It’s okay to be afraid, but we have to try hard to face our fears. That is what Obi had to learn. When Mommy tucked him in for the night and turned out the light, Obi started seeing all kinds of shadows on his walls. The moonlight coming in through his window was playing tricks on him. Or was it? Then there were strange shapes in his closet and a loud noise rumbling through the house. Someone was coming to get Obi and he was really scared. When he called out for Mommy, Daddy appeared at his bedside and helped him see things in a new perspective. It was all his wonderful, creative imagination. “I am special. And super,” said Obi. “Super Obi – that’s me!”
Dominique Okonkwo’s picture book story, The Adventures of Super Obi: Nothing to Fear, is a compassionate look at some of the fears we all face from time to time. Based on the author’s son, Obinna, the plot follows a young boy’s growing fears as his imagination takes over once the lights go out for the night. The plot thickens as each image he sees magnifies in scale until poor Obi can’t take it anymore and calls out for help. Like seeking God’s power, love and protection, young children reach out to those closest to them, their parents. Along with delightful illustrations, bright and colorful, the author helps young readers understand that they are not alone and with God on their side, they have their own secret superpower. The story ends with suggestions for a short quiet time and prayer time. With this interactive activity, children will feel their own superpowers, just like Obi. Beautifully told and presented.
Recommend this book:
The Gathering
A Metaphorical Odyssey Through the Scriptures with Commentary Notes
John W Milor
2022 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Sarah Scheele for Readers' Favorite
The Gathering by John W. Milor is a Christian children’s adventure novel. It takes place in the primitive ancient world of Genesis and tells the story of five special chosen animals who are separated from the violent, cruel world of nature around them by a shared dream of a lone mountain. Overcoming dangerous adventures, vicious enemies, loss and sacrifice, and a strange climate change that is creating volcanic eruptions and torrential rain, Judah the young lion and his friends (the eagle, the wolf, the snake, and the sheep) undertake to unite others on a perilous journey they barely understand, to a mountain none of them has ever seen. Intrigue, confusion, betrayal, and sacrifice stand in their way. Will they reach the mountain in time? And why are they going there in the first place?
The Gathering is a first-rate Christian story, bringing to life the harsh world of the Old Testament, as seen through the lives of wild animals. Goodhearted Judah and his snarky-yet-under-confident snake friend, Sophia, make a heart-warming team as they collect allies like the reluctant Nimbi and hard-bitten Lumis, and face off against the sharply drawn, realistic villain Nephram, who represents this world’s greed and arrogance. John Milor’s numerous plot twists and suspense kept me dedicated to the pages, and the grandeur and scope of the ideas presented gave plenty of food for devotional thought as well. Reminiscent of The Lion King, with epic themes, drama, comedy, and fully realized characters, the story stands tall and puts a whole new perspective on one of the world’s oldest tales. Readers of biblical fiction and Christian fantasy shouldn’t pass this one up.
The Gathering by John W. Milor is a Christian children’s adventure novel. It takes place in the primitive ancient world of Genesis and tells the story of five special chosen animals who are separated from the violent, cruel world of nature around them by a shared dream of a lone mountain. Overcoming dangerous adventures, vicious enemies, loss and sacrifice, and a strange climate change that is creating volcanic eruptions and torrential rain, Judah the young lion and his friends (the eagle, the wolf, the snake, and the sheep) undertake to unite others on a perilous journey they barely understand, to a mountain none of them has ever seen. Intrigue, confusion, betrayal, and sacrifice stand in their way. Will they reach the mountain in time? And why are they going there in the first place?
The Gathering is a first-rate Christian story, bringing to life the harsh world of the Old Testament, as seen through the lives of wild animals. Goodhearted Judah and his snarky-yet-under-confident snake friend, Sophia, make a heart-warming team as they collect allies like the reluctant Nimbi and hard-bitten Lumis, and face off against the sharply drawn, realistic villain Nephram, who represents this world’s greed and arrogance. John Milor’s numerous plot twists and suspense kept me dedicated to the pages, and the grandeur and scope of the ideas presented gave plenty of food for devotional thought as well. Reminiscent of The Lion King, with epic themes, drama, comedy, and fully realized characters, the story stands tall and puts a whole new perspective on one of the world’s oldest tales. Readers of biblical fiction and Christian fantasy shouldn’t pass this one up.
Recommend this book:
 by Y. Y. Chan. Twelve-year-old Renee comes home from school to find Daddy home from work several hours earlier than usual. He gently tells Renee and Mummy that he is sick with cancer. Devastated and afraid...){kind=link}
Can You Hear Me?
Finding Hope After Loss
Y. Y. Chan
2021 Gold Medal
55 Pages
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Children - Religious Theme
Reviewed by Alyssa Elmore for Readers' Favorite
A young girl discovers the hidden blessings in her father's illness in the inspiring children's book, Can You Hear Me? (Finding Hope After Loss) by Y. Y. Chan. Twelve-year-old Renee comes home from school to find Daddy home from work several hours earlier than usual. He gently tells Renee and Mummy that he is sick with cancer. Devastated and afraid, Renee starts praying that God will intervene and cure Daddy. Unwilling to share her pain with her friends, she keeps quiet and instead writes in her diary. As the days pass, Daddy has his good days and his bad days. After experiencing the pain and horror of chemo, Renee is determined not to give up on Daddy's healing but is getting frustrated with God. Can God hear her? When one of her teachers at church notices a difference in Renee, she offers to listen and help if she can. Renee admits that she hasn't told anyone of Daddy's sickness; not even her classmates. Her teacher suggests that she share her pain; it isn't healthy to keep everything bottled up inside. She also suggests that Renee start keeping a list of the good things that have happened since Daddy got sick. Still rather angry at God, Renee tries her teacher's suggestion. Will finding the good within the bad and the pain of fatal disease help Renee come to terms with the death of her father? Or will she lose her faith?
Can You Hear Me? (Finding Hope After Loss) by Y. Y. Chan is a poignant story of hope and loss. Written like a diary, this book is perfect for children experiencing and who have recently experienced the loss of a loved one. Inspiring its readers to keep their faith and see the positive through death, the story finishes with a discussion page and a personal note from the author relating her experience of losing her father to illness and her grandmother shortly thereafter. The story, though painfully sad, imparts hope and eternal love. I appreciated the ending; heaven does give our loved ones superpowers so that they can still hear us and let us know that we are loved, and they are still with us. The author has also included a link for a picture book version of the story for younger children. I recommend this book to children ages seven to twelve.
A young girl discovers the hidden blessings in her father's illness in the inspiring children's book, Can You Hear Me? (Finding Hope After Loss) by Y. Y. Chan. Twelve-year-old Renee comes home from school to find Daddy home from work several hours earlier than usual. He gently tells Renee and Mummy that he is sick with cancer. Devastated and afraid, Renee starts praying that God will intervene and cure Daddy. Unwilling to share her pain with her friends, she keeps quiet and instead writes in her diary. As the days pass, Daddy has his good days and his bad days. After experiencing the pain and horror of chemo, Renee is determined not to give up on Daddy's healing but is getting frustrated with God. Can God hear her? When one of her teachers at church notices a difference in Renee, she offers to listen and help if she can. Renee admits that she hasn't told anyone of Daddy's sickness; not even her classmates. Her teacher suggests that she share her pain; it isn't healthy to keep everything bottled up inside. She also suggests that Renee start keeping a list of the good things that have happened since Daddy got sick. Still rather angry at God, Renee tries her teacher's suggestion. Will finding the good within the bad and the pain of fatal disease help Renee come to terms with the death of her father? Or will she lose her faith?
Can You Hear Me? (Finding Hope After Loss) by Y. Y. Chan is a poignant story of hope and loss. Written like a diary, this book is perfect for children experiencing and who have recently experienced the loss of a loved one. Inspiring its readers to keep their faith and see the positive through death, the story finishes with a discussion page and a personal note from the author relating her experience of losing her father to illness and her grandmother shortly thereafter. The story, though painfully sad, imparts hope and eternal love. I appreciated the ending; heaven does give our loved ones superpowers so that they can still hear us and let us know that we are loved, and they are still with us. The author has also included a link for a picture book version of the story for younger children. I recommend this book to children ages seven to twelve.
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