Sherlock Holmes and the Needle's Eye by Len Bailey

The author, Len Bailey, did a great job in incorporating classic fictional characters, like Holmes and Watson, into Biblical stories. There were instances when these two were observers in the story (like when Jesus was tempted by Satan) and also times when they participated in the story (like Joshua and the battle of Jericho). I like how the author wrote this in a way that can either be used as a novel for recreational reading, or the questions for each chapter at the end of the book could be used as a small group study, or even for a personal Bible study.

 

Each of the ten chapters included a story from either the Old or New Testament. I found myself trying to use Holmes’ deductions to see if I could figure out why David grabbed five stones or why Paul started his journey in Philippi.

 

I would recommend this book to anyone at least high school age that enjoys solving mysteries. Even if you are not familiar with the writings of Holmes, this book was easy to dive into and become familiar with the characters… and if you are a fan of Sherlock Holmes – even better.

 

*I received a copy of this book from Book Sneeze  in exchange for my honest review.

Cassie and Caleb Discover God's Wonderful Design by Susan and Richie Hunt

 

 

This book is from the Plants and Pillars Series with a goal to teach children biblical truth in a fun way. Based on Psalm 144:12 this series strives to produce children into Godly men and women. Geared toward children ages 5-8 this hardback book is divided into short chapters which include a bible verse, beautiful illustration, story, and discussion section.

Cassie and Caleb Discover God's Wonderful Design teaches boys and girl that we were created in the image of God, that we all have the same sin and same service to our God. What is refreshing about this book is that it incorporates the role of a man and a women. Although both were created in his image; God made each distinctively different and with a different job to do.

It is never too early to teach your children what the Bible says about men and women's roles. This messed up world has confused families long enough about God's original design. I love that this book emphasizes neither gender is better(created equal remember?), but that he designed each for a different purpose and job. This book also touches on a Godly marriage and a wife and husbands part in it.

Not only did this book make it fun and interesting to discuss these truths with my children; it reminded me of a thing or two. This book would be great for a classroom, Sunday school, library, gift or family. 

*This book was sent to me by Moody Publishing in exchange for my honest review. 

 

The Christian Alphabet Book by Tracy Sands



 

I found this book a very useful tool during our Homeschooling Bible Hour. Each letter and what Biblical truth it represents is presented; as well as a symbol to remember it by. Each 2 pages give an explanation of the Biblical truth, Bible verse, prayer, seek and find section and symbol picture.

Younger kids will love the seek and find where a group of objects are given that they must seek out and find in the symbol picture. I feel this kept the attention of my youngest as well as gave him a fun way to recognize the symbol. He also liked "Love" the Dove which represents the Holy Spirit and guides you through the book.
Included in the explanation is also an application that the child can relate to in their own life. Their is a handy guide for the parent at the back of the book that has an explanation of each symbol represented. So much can be gained by this book: learning the alphabet, explanation of a biblical truth and its application, bible memory, prayer time and more. More could be gained from this book if you take your time to go through it. It is not a quick picture book. It has a lot of Biblical information that could spark a lot of questions and conversations with your kids.
The only negative for me has to be the artwork. Don't misunderstand me the actual art is wonderful...Personally I felt the artwork a little to Catholic looking for my taste(you know Baptists..were funny like that). But this does not deter me from using it and teaching my children the lessons this book emanates.
I would highly recommend this resource for homes, schools, church libraries, homeschools, teachers and anyone who wants a great Bible tool for kids.
Check out the website here http://thechristianalphabet.com/the-book

*I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

A Joyful Marriage Fortress by Terry Scerine

There are so many things I appreciate about this book. For starters, it doesn't just tell you what God expects out of your marriage; but it also tells you how to obey what he requires. I am so tired of books that only tell you what is wrong and they don't give you a biblical explanation on how to solve the problem. So it was so refreshing to get that in A Joyful Marriage Fortress. Another plus, was that all the scripture references were in KJV( which I might add is very unusual, thus hard to find).
Chapter titles include: Gods plan, Marriage Counseling, The enemy,  extreme measures, the evidence of joy and more. This is a short read and would be great for a bible study, individual study or a great gift for newly married couple(although this is also great for established marriages)

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review from Christian Review of Books.

5 Conversations you must have with your son by Vicki Courtney

I have 3 sons, so it stands to reason that this book caught my attention. I have read and reviewed other books by Vicki Courtney so I knew I would enjoy this one as well. There are 17 chapters that cover 5 conversations: Its OK to be a man, What you don't learn to conquer may become your master, Not every one's doing it, It's time to grow up, and Godly men are in short supply. This book can be used to help guide the necessary conversations parents need to have with their son from a small age to a much older age. As a parent you must use discretion on when the time is appropriate for each conversation to take place. The chapters are filled with tips and facts to help guide these necessary conversations.

In reading this book I realized I have already started to implement some of these topics in conversation with my 3 boys. I found a lot of information helpful. I did however disagree with the author on some of the sexual topics ( but remember as parents it is our God given authority to decide where, when and how those conversations take place..use your own judgment in this area).   

There is a sister book to this one, 5 Conversations you must have with your Daughter. I have one of those too so that looks like a future read for me. Overall, good book with sound Godly and practical advice.

 

*This book was sent to me by http://www.christianreviewofbooks.com/ in exchange for my honest review.

 

 

 

 

Awesome Science Videos

This is not the first time I have seen or even reviewed Awesome Science Videos. This video series is hosted by a 14 year old homeschooler. All the videos explore national parks and geological locations. Science is explored in accordance with the Bible. Not only will you learn about these beautiful and interesting places, but you will also learn how they backup Creation Science.
Awesome Science Videos are a wonderful tool for homeschooling families, Christian schools, Co-op Groups and just about everyone. Geared toward children and high schoolers, they can still be enjoyed by various ages. My family ranges from ages 7-40  and we all enjoyed watching them and had some interesting discussions afterwards.
I had the privilege of watching Mount St. Helens, John Day Fossil Beds, and Yosemite Zion National Parks. Each video was 30 minutes in length; with beautiful video footage of each location. The scientific facts were grounded with biblical evidence. I found everything to be accurate and well researched.
The only negative is that after watching these videos my children immediately started planning trips to actually see all these places. That might me in our future.

*I received these videos from Master Books a division of New Leaf Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review.
 

Amish Values for Your Family by Suzanne Woods Fisher

I have always highly admired and respected the Amish. Their discipline, family bonds and godly values have been a great influence on my life. So when I saw this book by Suzanne Woods Fisher; I had to review it on the blog.
When we think of Amish we think of horses, plain clothes, and no modern conveniences. I love using my car, lights and telephone; yet I can't help but long for that simpler way of life. With that simple life the Amish lead comes some values that every one can apply within their own families.
Amish Values for Your Family is composed of 4 sections: Children are loved but not adored, Great expectations, Daily bread and Letting go. Each section includes short stories with an amish proverb, application, and words from the Amish themselves.
The Amish have proved over and over they know what their talking about when it comes to family values. If you long for a stronger family unit, want to pass on a legacy full of values to your children, or just want to learn to enjoy life; then this book should be on your reading list.

*This book was sent to me by Christian Review of Books in exchange for my honest review.