The Berenstain Bears School Days Collection By Mike Berenstain

The Berenstain Bears School Days Collection

by Mike Berenstain

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 978-0310753834

The timing of this book coming up for review was fortuitous! My daughter had just told me my granddaughter was really getting into The Berenstain Bears books and if I had any, bring them to them. I flew out with this book a week or so later!

Summary:

Head back to school with the Berenstain Bears! Young readers will enjoy the stories, activities, stickers, and recipes in The Berenstain Bears School Days Collection, an addition to the Living Lights™ series of The Berenstain Bears books. With stories about starting school, new students, rumors and gossip, and settling disagreements, this treasury is perfect for children beginning a new school year or right in the middle of one.

The Berenstain Bears School Days Collection also features educational games, discussion questions, and activities to engage young minds, and includes several recipes perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

The Berenstain Bears School Days Collection includes:

• School Time Blessings
• Stand Up to Bullying
• The Truth about Gossip
• Blessed Are the Peacemakers
• Bear Country Fun Sticker and Activity Book
• Selected recipes from Country Cookbook

My Review:

So, clearly my granddaughter isn't ready for school, but since she loves The Berenstain Bears it's great for the stories. With it being hardcover it'll last until she finally reaches elementary school. The stories that are included are so appropriate for kids who might encounter situations like bullies, gossip, etc. They're stories that will give children godly examples of how to experience school.

Of course, the back of the book is my favorite and what I know my granddaughter will enjoy when she's old enough to understand everything. She loves being in the kitchen so I know she and her mommy will try the recipes. Because my little lovey is a pretty smart cookie I think she'll be able to do things like the mazes sooner than later and don't even get her started with the stickers! She's already obsessed with them!

Each of the books is exactly what you've come to expect from The Berenstain Bears books. They have lessons that the children will learn and take to heart. The illustrations are wonderful as always. The activities will excite children and give them a fun idea of what to look forward to school once they start!

When I was out with my granddaughter we had a great time looking through the stories and I can't wait to see her dive in when she's a bit older to all of the activities!

About the Author:

Stan and Jan Berenstain introduced the first Berenstain Bears books in 1962. Mike Berenstain grew up watching his parents work together to write about and draw these lovable bears. Eventually he started drawing and writing about them too. Though Stan died in 2005 and Jan in 2012, Mike continues to create the delightful Bear adventures from his studio in Pennsylvania, in an area that looks much like the sunny dirt road deep in Bear Country.

Zonderkidz Summer Reading

I have to tell you, I was SO excited for the timing of the two books I am reviewing today. They showed up on my doorstep the day before I was heading to see my granddaughter! What I forgot though was that I have actually reviewed Fiona It's Bedtime before! Ooops. This time it's a board book so in that sense it's different. BUT, what IS different this time is that my granddaughter is here and I was able to read this to her. It's wonderful that she'll be able to enjoy the board book now and enjoy the hardcover when she's a bit older. I just enjoy the Fiona books so much I want them all. I should've done the Early Reader books as well, but she's got quite a bit of time before she's there yet.

Here are my reviews for both books I received!

The Beginner's Bible First 100 Animal Words

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310770633

Summary:

Are you looking for a fun way to teach your toddler about animals? Early readers will learn their first animal words set within classic Bible stories with The Beginner’s Bible First 100 Animal Words.

Presenting child-friendly illustrations, this beautifully illustrated board book offers:

• Emerging readers ages 0-4 an opportunity to learn words from beloved Bible stories
• A sturdy format that is perfect for toddlers’ little hands
• Engaging 3D art with plenty of details to hold a young child’s attention 

The Beginner’s Bible First 100 Animals Words is great for:

• Birthdays, Easter baskets, Children's Baptism and holiday gifting
• Road trips, boredom busters, and activity time
• Home school and Children’s Ministry (Sunday school) use

The Beginner's Bible has been a favorite illustrated Bible with young children and their parents since its release in 1989 with over 25 million products sold. Followers of this brand should also check out The Beginner’s Bible First 100 Bible Words, The Beginner’s Bible Learn Your Letters, and The Beginner’s Bible Learn Your Numbers.

My Review:

It was really fun to go through this book with my granddaughter. Yes, she's still a baby, but the illustrations are so colorful! With 100 animals Zonderkidz had a fun array of them to teach my granddaughter about. They used animals and words that you might not find with a traditional book to teach about animals. I mean, how often do you read the word "sand cat" to an infant?

I hadn't thought about how many animals one could learn about through the Bible unless it was the plagues or a talking donkey, BUT, The Beginners Bible did a great job of coming up with a fun selection of them such as the kind the disciples who were fishermen might've encountered!

I would've thought they'd go in order of Biblical accounts, but they had Genesis 1 after Genesis 2. It was strange reading about Adam naming the animals and then reading that God made the animals. Just one of those things that makes me twitchy.

Fiona It's Bedtime (Board Book)

Illustrated by: Richard Cowdrey

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310767749

Summary:

Join your favorite hippo, Fiona, in this cuddly read-aloud picture book as she says good night to all her animal friends at the zoo before she snuggles up with her mama and settles in for a warm and safe slumber—encouraging your own child to drift off to sleep with their own bedtime routine.

A follow-up to the New York Times bestselling Fiona the Hippo and A Very Fiona Christmas, Fiona, It’s Bedtime is the first sleepy time board book starring the adorable internet sensation from the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

This board book edition is great for little hands that love to explore. Fiona, It's Bedtime:

• Features art by New York Times bestselling artist Richard Cowdrey (Fiona the Hippo, Bad Dog, Marley)
• Takes kids on a nighttime adventure as they get to see how the zoo animals sleep at night
• Has fun, rhyming text that will engage children while soothing them for their own bedtime ritual

Fiona, It’s Bedtime is the perfect gift for Fiona enthusiasts, birthdays, holiday gift giving, and any animal lover who’s ready for a story that’s a little bit sweet, a little bit cuddly, and a little bit different than other read-aloud bedtime board books.

Check out other titles in the Fiona the Hippo series: Fiona the Hippo and A Very Fiona Christmas

My Review:

There's just something about an adorable hippo getting ready for bed at the zoo that is irresistible! As with the hardcover that I reviewed, this board book is absolutely precious. The illustrations are sweet and soft looking. You may think this book might only appeal to the little ones, but once you turn the first page, as a mama, grandma, daddy, or grandpa, you'll be just as enthralled as they are!

Visiting the animals like the otter family or tortoises, Fiona sees how all of the other animals fall asleep.  How could you not want to hug up to her as she's going to sleep and fall asleep right along with her? The poem on each page is delightful and I think each child will be drawn into the story though each one. This story will make you want to have more of Fiona's experiences at the zoo!

Winter Reads From Zonderkidz

Hard to believe we're at the end of January already! It's only been a month, but the year is already zipping by! I think about that because I'm already sharing a Valentine's Day book with you! *jaw drop*

I look at children's books in an entirely new way now that I have a granddaughter in the picture. Sure, she's only a month old, but every kid book will now be viewed in light of her and me being her grandma! I'm SO glad I decided to review these books.

The first book is

Valentine's Day Treats

by Tara Knudson

Illustrated by Pauline Siewert

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310768395

Summary:

From sparkly cards to heart-shaped cakes to a party with friends, Valentine’s Day Treats captures the joy and fun of holiday traditions. The fun, read-aloud rhymes and bright, adorable illustrations are perfect for evoking favorite holiday memories and—with the included recipe to make your very own heart-shaped cereal treats—creating new ones!

My Review:

The first thing you notice about this delightful board book is the cover (of course). Aside from the adorable raccoons and squirrel, the glittered texture is so fun! The font on the cover and throughout the story are very cute and go along with the adorableness of it!

The illustrations that go along with the rhymes on each page will draw children into the story. I have no doubt that when my little granddaughter is old enough she'll want to craft just like the raccoon family. It's sweet watching mama raccoon help her kids make Valentine's Day treats for their friends.

And of course, if your kids (or grandkids ahem) are old enough to help out in the kitchen, definitely try the recipe included on the back! Super simple and fun for the kiddos to personalize!

near

by Sally Lloyd-Jones

Illustrator: Jago

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310768265

Summary:

God is my Father who made everything.

And I am a little explorer of the wide world.

He is near me

And he protects me.

He sees me

And he knows me.

He is strong

And he looks after me.He is with me—always!

Near:

• Is written by Sally Lloyd-Jones, the bestselling author of The Jesus Storybook Bible
• Contains lyrical text inspired by Psalm 139
• Contains a reassuring message that helps calm kids’ nerves, soothe their anxieties, and ease their fears
• Features a soft padded format that is a perfect fit for little hands
• Is a great gift for a new baby, First Communion, or birthday

My Review:

Books are such a great way to share Scripture with our little ones. Psalm 139 has always been a favorite of mine and seeing it illustrated for babies or toddlers, I was excited to review it so I could give it to my daughter for her daughter. I was bummed it didn't arrive before I headed to MN, but was grateful to see it when I got home.

I love how the illustrations go along with the words. For example, the first page has 3 children, 2 cats, and a dog in a hot air balloon looking out over the expanse of the Earth. Whether the children are in the city or the countryside, the words remind children that God is with them.

The illustrations help the children to go on an adventure around the world and in outer space. So many animals and experiences that the children in the book go through helps us to see how He will always be there. No matter what we do or where we go, God won't ever leave them. So reassuring to to share that good news with them!

Be sure to look through the next to last page to see all of the fun the kids have enjoyed throughout the story!

Back To School With Zonderkidz

Ok, I have to admit that I've had a complete mind shift with the knowledge I'm going to be a grandma. Children's books have taken on a whole new perspective for me. Now I look at everything in light of what I'm going to get to read to my grandchild one day.

That being said, here are a couple of super adorable books Zonderkidz sent me for review as we look at schools starting up again next month and into September.

Pugtato Finds a Thing
by Sophie Corrigan
Publisher: Zonderkidz
ISBN: 9780310767817

Summary:

When Pugtato’s simple, quiet life is disrupted after he digs up a strange object in his garden, he enlists his best “spuddies” to help (they are more clever than he is, after all). Tweetroot is certain it’s a new egg for her nest. Tomatoad is quite sure it’s a toy just for him. And Purrsnip simply won’t stop scratching it! Luckily, Pugtato has another very special spuddy to ask …

My Review:

This hardcover book is absolutely adorable! The author/illustrator was able to see a pug as a potato and I don't know if there's anything cuter. Each of the other animal vegetables have adorable "names" such as a Brussels sprout is a Brussels snout and looks like a pig.

The story of Pugtato Finds a Thing is done as a rhyming story which will draw children in. When he finds his "thing" it gives children an opportunity to use their imagination to wonder what the "thing" could be! Each of the animal vegetables use theirs as well! I also liked that the animal vegetable names are larger and colored so it sticks out to the children in the text.

Of course since I love gardening I'll have to sock up on these books so I can share this love with my grandchild and this adorable Pugtato will be a fun way to begin that adventure!

Grandma Snuggles

by Glenys Nellist

Illustrated by Gail Yerrill

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310770749

Summary:

Grandma Snuggles is an engaging, board book that celebrates the love between a grandma and her little ones. Whether it’s Grandma Mouse who shares her cheese or Grandma Duck who splashes in the lake, this book shows special cuddles and love, relaying a message that all grandmas are special in their own ways.

So, hop, skip, and run with Grandma Rabbit and roll into a ball with Grandma Hedgehog. Most of all, celebrate Grandma who’s as sweet as pie!

My Review:

I love the relationships portrayed by a grandma and a grandchild in Grandma Snuggles! It gives me alllll of the feels! I mean, what grandma doesn't want to snuggle their grandchild like the sweet cover portrays? It's adorable how each of the animals interact differently in their respective species.

I think this book is a wonderful building block for a grandma and grandchild to talk about how their relationship is unique and the fun things they enjoy doing together. It's also a perfect way to infuse our faith into our grandchildren. Each page mentions God with either how He watches over us, made a grandma extra snuggly, or how God made the grandma with something unique. A lovely way to teach our kids how they're made just the way God wanted them to be.

The Berenstain Bears Collection

Who doesn't LOVE The Berenstain Bears, right?! They are a rite of childhood, at least in my family. I'm excited to bring to you a collection of their books at various levels thanks to Zonderkidz! They sent all four of these books for me to review, and one of those books I'll be giving to my daughter for my FIRST grand baby!!

The Berenstain Bears God Loves the Animals

by Jan & Mike Berenstain

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310769583

Summary:

Take a beautiful nature walk through Bear Country with the beloved Berenstain Bear family. Mama, Papa, Brother, Sister, and Honey Bear savor the great outdoors and greet all their animal friends. From a family of ducks nestled amongst the cattails to Mrs. Rabbit in a cabbage patch, you'll enjoy the great outdoors and say "hi" to many different animal friends.

My Review:

There are SO many things to love about this book. First, it starts off with a scripture. Throughout the book, the family sees how God provides different for a variety of animals. I also appreciate that they help children understand that you don't have to be inside of a building to be at "church".

Visually, the pages are wonderful! Many different sceneries from the garden to the forest to the swamp and more! Can I just say that the heron is my favorite? Each of the animals are identified in the story by bold colored words! It helps the animal names stick out for children to be able to identify something different as they're being read to.

This is going to be the first book I give my unborn grand baby! I can't wait to give it to my daughter.

The Berenstain Bears Honesty Counts

by Mike Berenstain

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310763727

Summary:

In The Berenstain Bears Honesty Counts the Bear family is headed out for the annual cub campout and are especially excited about the canoe race down Rapid River. Who will win the big race and ribbons? The competition between Brother and Sister’s team and Too-Tall’s gang is fierce. But when Too-Tall and his gang decide that winning is the most important thing—even more important than telling the truth—Preacher Brown makes sure the cubs remember just how important honesty is!

My Review:

I appreciate stories that we can read to our children and grandchildren that gives them life lessons on a level they can relate to and understand. I love the expressions on all of the bear faces on the cover of the book. They're each having a different reaction to a lie being told.

The story is one that will be exciting to preschool and elementary age children. There's excitement for the competition and adventure as the bears compete against each other in the canoe race! The illustrations are fun and I think will be engaging for children. They can imagine the thrill of the ride both canoes take.

Of course, there's the lesson in being honest after being caught in dishonesty. The illustrations help show how the other bear team uses a short cut to beat Sister's team and their reaction to learning the truth. I'm thankful that scripture is brought in to teach Too-Tall's team the value of being honest.

The Berenstain Bears and the Rowdy Crowd

by Stan, Jan, and Mike Berenstain

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310768067

Summary:

Is it ever the right time to follow the wrong crowd?

Something’s up with Brother Bear. He’s talking tough, he’s walking tough, and he has a new hobby: shooting hoops with Too-Tall and his trouble-making team. And basketball isn’t the only new pastime Brother takes up when he falls in the wrong crowd.

Find out what happens when Brother Bear must decide whether to follow the crowd or stay true to himself.

My Review:

Whew, Brother Bear certainly gets tangled up with the wrong crowd in this story! It's pretty intense for little ones to read, but in a way that they can see how making choices to hand out with the wrong people just isn't worth it.

First, I like the relational pieces of this whole story. First, we see how Brother Bear's choices impact his relationship with Sister. I thought it was so sweet that she was incredibly concerned about the fact that something had changed with Brother and that change wasn't a good one. She made it her business to find out what was going on. Second was his relationship with his friend, Fred. It was a really good example of how we can bring our friends into a situation that isn't good for them either. And lastly, his relationship with the guys in Too-Tall's gang. It caused some division within their group as Too-Tall was using Brother.

The writing is such that a young reader will be able to read the story and understand what they're reading. The words aren't too "big". The font though is a great size for elementary age children. I appreciate that there are illustrations throughout the story because as we know, kids at this age are still enjoying pictures. The chapters are short enough to give them easy stopping points as they read through either on their own or with someone else.

It teaches a great lesson on how the choices we make not only effect us, but everyone around us.

The Berenstain Bears Nature Rescue

by Stan, jan, and Mike Berenstain

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310768043

Summary:

Save the birds! Save the trees! That’s what the cubs are saying around Bear Country. If Squire Grizzly gets his way and cuts down the trees in Birder’s Woods, the yellow popinjays will have nowhere to rest. They could disappear forever. It’s up to the cubs to save this important part of nature before it’s too late!

My Review:

Like the previous book, this is an early reader chapter book, but I found it a bit different than the first one. The font is a bit smaller, the words are a bit harder along with phrases like "lower on the bell curve of intelligence" which I'm guessing most younger children won't comprehend. lol 

There is a strong message of conservation in this story and I think it's important for children to know that even at a young age they can make a different. It's also for them to understand how important the world around them is.

The relationships of different bear families in Bear Country become strained and the debate as to whether or not a housing development should be built or if the natural land should remain, especially since a yellow popinjay has been spotted and it was supposed to be extinct.

I was surprised at how tense the storyline was. There were strong opinions on both sides of the issue. I would say this is a story that should illicit a good conversation between your child and yourself. Issues that effect our world are ones that should be discussed and worked through using this story as a great basis to start.

About the Authors:

Stan and Jan Berenstain were already successful cartoonists for magazines and adult humor books when they began writing children's books. The first story starring the bear family, The Big Honey Hunt, appeared in 1962. Since then, more than 370 Berenstain Bears books have been published, and more than 300 million copies have been sold. What began as an idea sparked by their young sons' love of reading has become over the years arguably the best-selling children's book series ever.

Since their inception, the Berenstain Bears stories have expanded to include picture books, beginning readers, and chapter books--even a hit TV show on PBS. Writing and illustrating the books has become a Berenstain family affair. Mike joined with his parents as a creative team in the late 1980s. The Bear family has expanded over the years as well. Sister Bear arrived in 1974, and baby Honey joined the family in 2000. 

Though Stan died in 2005 and Jan in 2012, Mike continues to create the delightful Bear adventures from his studio in Pennsylvania.

www.berenstainbears.com

Fiona It's Bedtime & Ansley's Big Bake Off Reviews

I just love being able to review books for kids! It gives me so much to look forward to when I have grandbabies! These are the kinds of books I want to have on my shelves for years to come. Thanks to Zonderkidz for allowing me to review both of these books.

Fiona It's Bedtime
Illustrated by: Richard Cowdrey
Publisher: Zonderkidz
ISBN: 9780310767558

Summary:

It’s time to go to bed and Fiona can’t fall asleep until she’s said “GOODNIGHT” to all her animal friends at the zoo.

Fiona, It’s Bedtime, a follow-up to the New York Times bestseller Fiona the Hippo and A Very Fiona Christmas, is the latest book to showcase the adorable internet sensation from the Cincinnati Zoo. Fiona is beloved by fans all over the world, and her newest book is the perfect bedtime read-aloud for cuddling with your little one. Fiona, It’s Bedtime, illustrated by New York Times bestselling artist Richard Cowdrey, features everyone’s favorite hippo who wanders through the zoo saying “GOODNIGHT” to all her animals friend before she heads to bed and settles into slumber.  

With a cover that shines with spot UV and foil, this book is perfect for Fiona enthusiasts, fans of Sandra Boynton’s The Going to Bed Book, and any animal lover who’s ready for a read-aloud rhyming bedtime story.

My Review:

Once again I've fallen in love with Fiona the hippo. The story is absolutely precious and the illustrations are beautiful. Just like in my A Very Fiona Christmas book review, you can't help but think it's delightful.

I actually read the book on video for my sister-in-law's daycare on her Facebook page. It was fun to read this story having not even cracked the page to see it first!

The rhyme on each page will keep the children eager to hear how the animals fall asleep as a family. And honestly, the illustrator picked the cutest animals at the zoo. How can anyone, young or old, resist an otter family, an adorable giraffe, or a pile of meerkats? It's a fun way to walk through the zoo since we can't visit them right now. The other piece I like is that it pulls in the new koala family that we meet from the Christmas book. They're the first animals Fiona visits as they go to sleep.

I can't wait to have grandbabies one day because I'll be reading all of the Fiona stories to them!

Ansley's Big Bake Off
by Kaitlyn Pitts, Camryn Pitts, Olivia Pitts with Janel Rodriguez Ferrer
Publisher: Zonderkidz
ISBN: 9780310769606

Summary:

Ansley and her family move to a new city to seek a new start after the death of their mother. But that also means ... a new school, new friends, new everything! Fortunately, even though no one could ever take the place of their mom, Aunt Samantha has moved in to help Dad and all the girls.

As they all settle into their “new normal,” Lena finds comfort in singing and songwriting. Ashton and Amber record videos documenting their lives and email them to their grandmothers. And Ansley pursues her own dream of becoming an Olympic gymnastics champ when she signs up with Grace and Power Gym. But she soon realizes that using her creativity to bake treats and share them with those she loves brings her as much (or even more) joy—especially since it brings back memories of precious afternoons she spent in the kitchen with her mom.

So which dream should she follow? Ansley prays for guidance, and it seems her prayers are answered when she gets the opportunity to both perform as a gymnast and take part in a The Big Bake Off at the Roland Lake Founders Day Fair. The Grand Prize is a trophy and a spot on the local morning show, Awake with The Lake!

But her dreams of taking home the trophy and being on TV are threatened by her strongest competition: Taylor, a mean girl from her new school who not only teases Ansley and rejects her offers of friendship but comes from a family of professional bakers.

Still, with the loving and prayerful support of her own family behind her, Ansley knows she has a real shot at winning. But with Taylor in the mix, will Ansley be able to rise to the occasion? Or will she just get burned?

Ansley's Big Bake Off—an important addition to the Faithgirlz series:

• Features diverse characters
• Is an engaging read for girls ages 8–12
• Is part of the Accelerated Reader (AR) program
• Is a perfect birthday gift from parents and grandparents to tween girls, and is great for Spring Break and summer vacation reading

My Review:

This is the kind of book I wish I'd had available when my girls were in middle school. Positive stories for girls to read that have a faith base with its characters. It was very limited, or so it seemed, 15 yrs ago.

As a mom, I appreciate that there's a good, diverse group of characters in each of the books! Not only that, this story in particular shows how we're all different and have different dreams. On top of that, you don't have to stop with just one dream. You can be good at a variety of things.

Also, with this age group the book is targeting, I still like that there are some pictures of the characters scattered throughout the book. I think that's great for kids who are visual and like having a better idea of what the characters look like and what they might be doing in a particular scene.

As for the story itself, it was well written and in a way that teaches some very good lessons. One that is really important for young kids to learn is empathy. We don't always know what someone is going through and if someone's hurt, they sometimes hurt others. It was great reading Ansley's change towards Taylor as she gained more insight to her.

It's also important for kids, obviously girls who are mostly reading these books, to learn how to support each other and to cheer each other on. Chasing dreams isn't easy, but doing it with people who support you and love you makes all the difference in the world.

Children's Books For Valentine's Day

I know it's just over a month away, we've just finished celebrating Christmas and New Year's, but Valentine's Day is just around the corner. With that in mind, check out these two adorable children's books from Zonderkidz. They sent them to me for a review and I just love them!

Words to Love By for Little Ones
by Rick Warren
Illustrated by Ag Jatkowska
Publisher: Zonderkidz
ISBN: 9780310753575

Summary:

If you’re looking to start the little boys and girls in your life along the path of wisdom and kindness, look no further than Words to Love By for Little Ones—a simple, inspirational board book that shows children how to use their words to encourage, forgive, express gratitude, heal, and love.

My Review:

What an absolutely delightful book. It's so important for children to learn at an early age how impactful their words are. Reading to a toddler you can be animated with the story and give them teachable moments. As your child grows into a preschooler, each page gives and opportunity to talk about how they can show love to others with respect, kindness, thankfulness, etc.

The illustrations are perfect with the text on the page. They give kids ways to relate to the children on the page. They can see tangible ways to show love whether it's with a friend, a stranger, or a family member. This is one of my favorite children's books I've read in quite a while.

Words to Love By is a great gift for a child or just because. It's one you'll go back to often!

Love You, Love You
Illustrated by Alison Brown
Publisher: Zonderkidz
ISBN: 9780310768418

Summary:

Heartwarming read-aloud rhymes that show the love between family members of all kinds, and sweet illustrations, make Love You, Love You the perfect board book to tell the precious one in your life, “I love you!”

My Review:

This is such an endearing bedtime book! I think my favorite part of this book is that the children are put to bed by various family members. It's not always mom & dad putting a child to bed. Wouldn't this be the best book for family members to have when your child is spending the night with them?

The illustrations are absolutely delightful. Mouse mom, hen aunty, and sister cat are just a few of the family members we meet in the story. They each have a different way of putting the little ones to bed.

Now, this isn't a faith based book, but it's a cute book that would make a good transition for bedtime or nap time. I think this will be a favorite of any child.

Christmas Books From Zonderkidz & Giveaway

I'm so excited to bring you two Christmas books from Zonderkidz. They've got some great options available just in time for the holiday.

A Very Fiona Christmas

by Richard Cowdrey

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310767732

Summary:

It’s Fiona the hippo’s very first Christmas, and the zoo is sparkling with holiday spirit. When the adorable little hippo asks her friends, “What’s Christmas?” they set out to show her all the wonders and excitement of the season. With each new experience Fiona lets out a snort, wiggles her ears, and asks, “Is THIS Christmas?”

Amidst the snow, twinkling lights, mistletoe, and stockings, Fiona ends up meeting a new friend at the zoo who helps her discover the true meaning of the holiday: Love. Snuggle up with your little ones and join Fiona and her adorable animal friends for a heartwarming holiday romp through the zoo. 

My Review:

A Very Fiona Christmas is such an absolutely delightful book! The hardcover is textured. The lightbulbs as well as the snow and part of Fiona's scarf have sparkly glitter on them. Honestly, if the cover doesn't pull you into the story, I don't know what will. First impressions are everything and this cover doesn't disappoint.

Is there anything cuter than a hippo enjoying her first Christmas? The illustrations throughout the story is beautiful and something even the adults reading the story can appreciate. Fiona interacts with a variety of other animals who live at the zoo as she tries to understand what the day is all about. At the beginning of the book you'll notice a koala bear watching Fiona's activity from afar. This plays into the full story.

Now, this isn't a Christian book so there isn't any discussion about Jesus, and I think my readers need to be aware of that. The point of this story is teaching children to think of others and show kindness. Both of those are important lessons for our children to learn.

I can see this book becoming a must-read every Christmas season with your little ones. It would also make a wonderful gift to anyone with little ones.

I'm giving away A Very Fiona Christmas on my Instagram page along with a group of other bookish items! Be sure to enter. Giveaway ends 12/10 at 11:59pm ET.

The Beginner's Bible: Jesus is Born
An "I Can Read!" Book
ISBN: 9780310769279

Summary:

A young girl named Mary is going to have a special baby. When he is born, God’s angels tell everyone the good news. But the king is not happy at all. What will become of Baby Jesus?

Featuring vibrant art from the beloved The Beginner’s Bible®, this faithful retelling of the story of Jesus’ birth from the New Testament is perfect for parents to share God’s Word with their children. Few books capture the iconic story about the first Christmas for beginning readers as memorably as the proven format of this My First I Can Read! book—The Beginner's Bible Jesus Is Born.

My Review:

I have been a fan of The Beginner's Bible stories since my daughter got her first Bible as a toddler. Jesus is Born covers the time before Jesus is born all the way to when the angel told Mary & Joseph they could go back home.

The illustrations go along with the rest of the series and are as sweet as you'd expect. The story is easy to read for children to help pick out some basic words. The type is written large enough for children to be able to attempt to participate as they read along with the story. The story is simple enough for children to grasp that Jesus was born to Mary, but Joseph wasn't His father, but God is. They can understand how Jesus was born, that He was visited by shepherds & wise men, and that they had to leave Bethlehem because Herod wanted to capture Him.

I appreciate the simplicity of the story and how easy it is to enjoy it. What a great book to read leading up to celebrating Christ's birth. This would even make a great stocking stuffer!

Fall Children's Books From Zonderkidz

I have to be honest with you. It hasn't felt like fall at all in Maryland. At least not until yesterday. The leaves are somewhat changing color and falling, but until yesterday it's felt like summer still. I know it's not that way everywhere though!

Are your kids excited for the seasonal change and the cooler temps? If so, I've got some books that I was able to review thanks to Zonderkidz you're going to love sharing with them! You'll also love a precious, new book from well known jewelry maker Lisa Leonard.

Your Spark

Illustrated by: Lisa Leonard

Written by:  Lisa Leonard

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310765936

Summary:

We all have a light inside us that shines brightly and makes us who we are. Artists and athletes, dancers and dreamers, jokers and gymnasts … I want to see you shine in your own unique way. Come along with me as we celebrate your spark.

Did you know that God gave you your very own spark? It’s true! And no one else in the whole wide world has a spark like yours! Your spark makes your eyes twinkle and your mouth smile. It makes your feet stomp and your voice loud. It makes you excited and curious to learn new things. It lights you up from the inside, and it fills you with wonder and dreams.

Your spark does all that and more. And author Lisa Leonard offers this picture book in celebration of you … and your spark! Lisa pours her heart into this book, bringing Your Spark to life with inspiring text and free-spirited illustrations. More than anything, Lisa wants you and children everywhere to know:

Inside your heart there is a spark. It shines bright and true, and it’s what makes you, YOU!

My Review:

It's so important for kids to know how unique and special they are. Lisa's book gets kids to see that they've been given a spark by God and that they can use it at different times in their lives. Not only did she write the book, but she also illustrated it! She's so incredibly talented.

My favorite part of the book is how diverse it is. The kids don't look the same! One is in a wheelchair, one wears glasses, one has curly hair, etc. This way every child can find a way to relate to the story.

This is a hardcover book with a dust jacket. I tend to take my dust jackets off and put them away so that they don't get torn. Your Spark is perfect for preschool and elementary age children! It's a positive book that will uplift them.

Snuggle Time Fall Blessings
Illustrated by: Cee Biscoe
Written by: Glenys Nellist
Publisher: Zonderkidz
ISBN: 9780310767510

Summary:

Let’s go apple picking, 
Shake them from the tree. 
Round and fat and juicy, 
The big red one’s for me!

Snuggle Time Fall Blessings is:

• An adorable addition to the bestselling Snuggle Time series, with over 150,000 units sold
• Written by Glenys Nellist, the bestselling author of many children's books, including the Love Letters from God and Snuggle Time series
• Perfect for bedtime snuggles with a padded cover that fits just right in little hands

My Review:

I have fallen in love with this children's book. The critters are so soft and sweetly drawn. The cover is padded which makes it easier to hold onto and the pages are nice and sturdy. This will be a durable book.

The short little rhymes are perfect for bedtime, for your little one to look at during their quiet time, or even to read one to get the day started. I also love the sense of family that's thread throughout each rhyme. Scripture starts the book off with Psalm 9:1 and weaves God into the rhymes throughout.

This delightful book will get you and your child(ren) excited for this season and everything fun that comes along with it!

Thankful
Illustrated by: Archie Preston
Written by: Eileen Spinelli
Publisher: Zonderkidz
ISBN: 9780310767824

Summary:

The gardener’s thankful for every green sprout.

The fireman, for putting the fire out.

The artist is thankful for color and light.

The clown for her costume silly and bright.

Thankful, written by beloved children’s author Eileen Spinelli and illustrated by Archie Preston, combines charming rhymes and whimsical illustrations to convey the importance of being thankful for everyday blessings. Like the gardener thankful for every green sprout, and the firefighter, for putting the fire out, children are encouraged to be thankful for the many blessings they find in their lives. Spinelli exhibits her endearing gift for storytelling with this engaging poem, reminding children how blessed and special they are. Meant to be read aloud, this heartwarming board book will be a treasured keepsake for parents and children alike.

My Review:

Thankful is such a whimsical book! I love how it goes through different "occupations" and what they're thankful for! Not only should they be thankful for those things, this book teaches us to be thankful for them as well.

The brother/sister duo in the story are fun to see together in different settings whether it's chasing each other in the yard or working as beekeepers. It's a sweet example of siblings (and family members) enjoying each day with each other.

This is another book that has a padded cover and stiff pages that will stand the test of time. The story is short enough to keep a child's attention, and the illustrations will have your child taking in all of it. Really, there's so much to point out on each page!

Love is Kind
Illustrated by: Lison Chaperon
Written by: Laura Sassi
Publisher: Zonderkidz
ISBN: 9780310754893

Summary:

Love Is Kind is a heartwarming story about Little Owl who hopes to buy his grammy a heart-shaped box of chocolates for her birthday. On his quest for the chocolates, he’s thwarted at every turn, but ends up discovering the real meaning of love as described in 1 Corinthians 13. Told in simple prose by bestselling author Laura Sassi, this heartfelt and humorous picture book is a sweet reminder that real love isn’t found in a box – even one filled with chocolates. Love Is Kind takes a charming and gentle approach to teaching kids the true meaning of love, while celebrating the bonds that kids have with their grandparents, and the many forms that love and happiness can take.

My Review:

Love is Kind actually comes in two formats: hardcover and board book. I received the hardcover for my review. It has a dust jacket that can be removed, and if you have really little ones, you might consider removing that until they're a bit older.

That being said, this is such a precious story! First, it's a sweet example to children on how to be thoughtful with loved ones. Second, and this is my favorite piece, on several of the pages are scriptures that you might not notice the first time you read through. They're creatively placed on a few of the pages.

The illustration makes Little Owl look so soft and cuddly! You just pull for him to be able to find a way to give his grammy a gift for her birthday. She's able to teach him a tender lesson that something material isn't always the best gift. This would make a great gift for Grandparent's Day now that I'm thinking about it.