Book Reviews~

In honor of the release of Secrets in September, I will be posting monthly middle grade and picture book reviews–new releases that fall under the category of good, clean, fun…with a sprinkling of Christian values … 

Enjoy these great stories!

March

Arthur the Clumsy Altar Server

written by Theresa Kiser      illustrated by Mike Schwalm

This is a fun story about Arthur, who desperately wants to be an altar server and is thrilled to begin training. Arthur understands the importance of his responsibilities and is sincere in his efforts to be the best altar server ever. The problem is that Arthur is clumsy, as everyone from his sister to his fellow servers point out. When Arthur’s clumsiness interferes with his training, he is sure his altar serving days are over before they even begin. But Arthur is in for a big surprise when the server schedule is released. This story would make a great Easter or Holy Communion gift–or as a gift for the budding altar servers in your life!

Faith quote:

“God gave you the desire to serve him, and that’s what’s most important.” ~Father Cruz

Recommended ages 4-10

February

Sweet Dreams, Boone

written by Susan Grant    illustrated by Kelly Artieri

In Sweet Dreams, Boone, we meet Boone, the adorable dachshund. Every dog owner will recognize the separation anxiety Boone experiences and appreciate the great lengths his owner takes to soothe him. So great is the effort, in fact, that Boone comfortably drifts off and finds himself right in the middle of a beloved Bible story: Jesus Heals a Blind Man. Boone assumes an important role in this beautiful re-telling and learns there is nothing to be afraid of and that he is never alone. There is much to appreciate this wonderful story. Children will be immediately drawn to the pet theme and beautiful illustrations, and will find comfort in the message that Jesus is always with us. Highly recommended!

Faith quote:

“If Jesus cares about the man, he cares about me too.”  ~ Boone, pg. 29

Recommended ages 4-10

January

Hello from the Great Blue Sea

by Kayleen Holder   illustrated by Chad Widoner

December

A Little Camel For Baby Jesus

Written and Illustrated by Maria Gianola

In this beautiful Christmas story, we learn how an act of kindness is a wonderful gift.

Joel rides with the king’s caravan, searching for the King of Kings. As they follow the star night after night, Joel passes the time by whittling a piece of wood into a small camel figurine–a gift for the newborn king. When Joel meets a baby in need, he gives away his gift and ends up with a big surprise!

Faith quote:

“I have made this baby happy, and that is enough for me.” ~Joel, page 20

Recommended ages 4-8

November

He Meant You To Be You

by J. J. LeVan     Illustrated by James Newton

This story is like a warm hug for children, parents, and caregivers who are touched by a child with autism or other special needs. The rhyming text is relatable and comforting, and the illustrations are engaging. Giving this book as a gift would be a loving way to support those who are struggling with these issues.

Faith Quote:

“God’s love is with you everywhere and with you every day … ” page 21

Recommended ages 4-12

October

How To Kill A Giant

by Carol Schlorff

Terrific Biblical Fiction! In this exciting story, Hugo and his two new friends, Julia and Stefan, mysteriously travel back 3000 years to Bethlehem. There, they meet a young shepherd named David and embark on an adventure both thrilling and terrifying. Highlights include an authentic glimpse into the history and culture of the time period. Themes of courage, friendship, faith, acceptance, and glorifying God run through this uplifting story. Highly recommended for children and adults.

Recommended ages 9-13

Faith quote:  “The Lord is the one who gave me strength. I couldn’t have done it without him.” ~ David, page 59

September

Rescued! True Stories for Catholic Kids

by Kathryn Griffin Swegart

These ten exciting stories of escape by means of Divine intervention will amaze both children and adults. The stories, spanning two thousand years, are set around the globe with circumstances that spell certain death for the individuals involved–individuals who include, apostles, saints, a pope, ordinary citizens, and even children. In every case, rescue was unlikely, until God stepped in. Facts to support these extraordinary rescues are included.

Recommended for all ages.

Faith quote:

“Get up quickly,” the angel said. Suddenly the chains fell off his wrists and fell to the floor. ~St. Peter’s Miraculous Escape, page 6

August

Lucy and Thunder

Written and illustrated by Bettie Boswell

Children will love this story of bravery and problem solving!  Lucy tries her family’s best advice to overcome her fear of thunder, but ultimately solves this problem her own way. With God’s help, Lucy turns fear to fun and shows how brave she really is! Great illustrations too!

Recommended ages:  3-7

Faith quote:   Lucy prayed. Then … she had an idea.

July

Roxie, the Traveling Rocker

by Becky Van Vleet     Illustrated by Courtney Smith

Over many years, to many ages, and in many places, Roxie gave comfort to readers. Whether they sat in her or under her, Roxie the Traveling Rocker helped those who sat with her enjoy stories. In this adorable picture book, special relationships between Roxie and her readers are highlighted and in the end, Roxie is rewarded with a special spot in the best place of all! Beautiful story that builds an appreciation for reading.

Recommended ages: 4-8

Inspirational quote:

“Roxie and Mary would rock and read hundreds of books.” ~page one

**Book 3 of the Traveling series

June

Dottie’s Dream Horse

by Bettie Boswell

In Dottie’s Dream Horse, readers will journey back to the 1940’s and experience true rural life during World War II. This well-researched story parallels the joys of a simpler time and the hardships of farm life through the eyes of Dottie, a young girl devoted to helping her family keep the farm running when her brother is drafted. Dottie’s strength and determination enables her to overcome her fears and accomplish her goals despite many setbacks. The themes of family, forgiveness, and prayer are woven throughout and help guide Dottie to the truth that sometimes our heart’s desire is already in our grasp. The beautiful pencil drawings add a nice visual to the detailed descriptions found in the story. The discussion questions at the end are a bonus and make this story a good choice for the classroom.  Highly recommended!

Recommended ages: 8-12

Faith Quote:

Ma bowed her head in prayer. “Dear Lord, Please watch over our boy.” page 53

May

Jesus In Space: A True Story That’s Out of This World

by Cecilia Ciccone           illustrated by Gabhor Utomo

Jesus in Space is a beautifully illustrated and fascinating story of the 1994 flight of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Children and adults will love to read how the team of astronauts, particularly Dr. Tom Jones, prepared for and carried out their mission. The illustrations include an awesome timeline of events. Most touching is how faith played an important part in the preparations. Prayer, Mass, and the Eucharist all have a special role in the story.
This book would make a wonderful gift and reminds us of the awesome gift Jesus gave to us–Himself in the Eucharist.

Recommended for all ages.

Faith quote:

“Jesus, I trust in you!” Tom prayed. ~ Astronaut Tom Jones, April 9, 1994 7:05 a.m. EST

April

A Prayer From the Heart

by Tammy Fernando     Illustrated by Kimberly Merritt

A Prayer from the Heart is a beautiful story that demonstrates how God answers prayers. Chris longs for friends to play with at home and after finding the courage to make a new friend at school, he uncovers a surprising connection between the two. Chris’s deep desire for friends is meaningful and heartfelt and children will relate to the likable characters. The beautiful illustrations add to the fun. This sweet and sincere story is highly recommended!

Recommended ages: 4-8

Faith quote:

“You answer my prayers in such amazing ways.” ~ Chris

March

Miracle At The Mission

by Joseph Lewis

Another great adventure for best friends, Joe and Pete–students at Westthorpe Academy, begins when they travel to California where Pete will accept an award for his essay on Saint Junipero Serra. Fascinated by the history of the nearby missions and the lore of buried treasure, the boys’ curiosity lands them right in the middle of an assassination plot against the President of the United States. Catholic Tradition and history of the region provide a wonderful backdrop to this exciting mystery where Divine Providence is the only hope for a positive outcome.

Recommended ages: 13-16

Faith quote:

“The Lord is always looking out for us.” ~Joe, page 45

February

The Wooden Ox

by LeAnne Hardy

In this middle-grade historical fiction novel, The Anderson family is kidnapped while on a humanitarian mission to Mozambique during the African Civil War. As prisoners, Keri, her parents, and her 7-year-old brother, Kurt, suffer the same mistreatment as the families of the captured village. Keri’s faith is tested over and over, especially when her group is forced to leave behind the elderly, injured pastor. As Keri wonders where God is, stories start to emerge proving God was with them all along. Through Keri’s experiences, we get a glimpse of the reality of missionary life in a war-torn region and how important our prayers and donations are.

Recommended ages: 12-14

Faith quote:

“The Lord is my shepherd,” Keri reminded herself. “Everything will be all right.” ~page 129

January

Small Acts of Kindness

by James Vollbracht     Illustrated by Christopher Fay

How does a simple, unexpected hug inspire a heartfelt gift presented at the Nativity? That’s the ripple effect. In this beautifully illustrated picture book, a young boy surprises his mother with a hug, setting off a string of random acts of kindness that lead to a gift for Baby Jesus. This story is appropriate for all ages and would be wonderful to use as a family or classroom resource to initiate a discussion about how kind acts affect others.

*Recommended for all ages

**Faith Quote:  “Truly, it is the small acts of kindness given freely along the way that become the greatest gifts of love.”

December

The Best Advent Ever

by Paul McCusker

The Perry family’s first Advent in their new town of Hope Springs is full of adventure. Eight-year-old Nick and his twin sister, Sam, spend the weeks leading up to Christmas getting in and out of trouble with friends and family. With the Christmas pageant looming, it seems that nothing can go right. But the twins experience the joy of Advent when they start to see things from a different perspective. This is a funny Advent story, full of Christmas tradition and history.

*Recommended ages: 7-12

**Faith quote:

“Advent is like waiting for something wonderful to happen.” ~Father Cliff, page 31

November

Bella’s Beautiful Miracle: A Caterpillar’s Story

by Kimberly Novak

Bella, a beautiful caterpillar, suffers through a terrible storm and loses her lovely colors, her way, and as a result–her identity. With the help of many new friends, Bella embarks on journey of self-discovery. Bella’s experiences in the beautiful forest enable her to realize that God has a purpose for everything. In this chapter book, Bella’s adventures show us that during difficult times we may lose some of our color but can regain it and more through trust in God.

*Recommended for ages!

** Faith quote:

“Allow God’s Word to carry you, for you can do all things through Him.”  ~ Andy, pg. 165

October

The Ghosts of Westthorpe Academy

By Joseph Lewis

When Joe, a freshman at Westthorpe Catholic High School, starts having dreams featuring messages from a departed Roman soldier, he wonders if he’s going crazy—or if someone is trying to tell him something. When Joe and his friend, Pete, investigate some of the ghostly soldier’s claims they find evidence proving the future of Westthorpe is in jeopardy. Joe and Pete mobilize and risk their own safety, determined to solve the mystery to save their school.

*Recommended ages 11-14

**Faith quote:

“The Lord often works in ways that are strange to us …” ~Father Sarjinski, page 116

September

Harvey, the Traveling Harmonica

By Becky Van Vleet    Illustrated by Courtney Smith

Children will love reading Harvey’s story. In this humorous adventure, Harvey’s feelings change as often as his situation until he finally realizes that, even through the ups and downs, life is good. Beautifully illustrated! Highly recommended and the discussion questions and tune at the end are a bonus!

*Recommended ages 4-8

**Faith message: Life is good!

*** 2nd book in the Traveling series

August

No Bones About It (Max Tales Mysteries Book 2)

by Annette O’Hare

Jeannie and her trusted dog, Max, are back to solve another mystery–this time on a Navajo reservation. Jeannie and her friends arrive in New Mexico believing they are on a goodwill mission but soon find that someone is trying to sabotage the project. The investigation uncovers a bevy of suspects, all with motive. The clever mystery highlights beautiful scenery and Native American traditions older middle graders will appreciate.

*Recommended ages 10-14

**Faith quote:

“We should all be more grateful for what God has given us.” ~Toni, page 47

July

,

God’s Promise

by Maureen Moss     Illustrated by Gerald Purnell

In this beautifully illustrated picture book, God shares the wonders of life on Earth with Angelina, an about-to-be born baby. When Angelina frets about leaving God to live in an unfamiliar world, God soothes her fears by introducing her to the birds of the air, the fish of the sea, and animals near and far. Angelina is comforted and finally assured by the vision of the family waiting patiently and lovingly for her to arrive. God’s promise to always be at Angelina’s side, through all the ups and downs of life, is a message both children and adults can take heart in.

*Recommended ages 3-8

**Faith quote:

“My precious child, I will see you every moment of every day, wherever you are.” ~God

June

Miraculous! Catholic Mysteries for Kids

by Kathryn Griffin Swegart

A mystery…or a miracle? This is the question you will ask yourself as you read these 11 intriguing stories. Who moved the birth home of the Virgin Mary thousands of miles from Nazareth to Italy? Who was the mysterious dog who protected St. John Bosco time and time again on the streets of the dangerous city of Turin, Italy? Who was the mysterious carpenter who appeared to build a much needed staircase for the Sisters in Santa Fe, New Mexico? A flying priest? A spinning sun? These short stories, beautifully told and filled with wonder, will leave children and adults in awe of God. The appendix with history and photographs is a bonus.

*Recommended ages 8-14

**Faith quote:

“Do not be afraid.” ~Padre Pio, page 38

May

The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls

by M. J. Thomas

Nine-year-old Peter and his sister, Mary, think spending a month at their Great-Uncle Solomon’s house will be boring until they hear about the secret scrolls. While working as an archaeologist in Israel, Great-Uncle Solomon found a clay pot filled with scrolls from Biblical times. Handling the first scroll transports Peter, Mary, and their dog, Hank, back to Creation where they meet the Angel Michael and witness the marvels of the first seven days. But unless they can outwit evil and solve the secret of the scroll, they may have to live in the garden forever.

*First book in a great read-aloud series

**Recommended ages 7-10

***Faith quote:

“God knows everything.” ~Michael, page 37

April

The Treasure With a Face

by Janeen Zaio

Set in first century Israel, The Treasure With a Face is the story of 12-year-old Eli, an aspiring treasure hunter. Eli is determined to find the most important treasure there is–the Ark of the Covenant. It has been missing for over 500 years, but that doesn’t mean much to Eli because he knows just who to ask about it–the one person on earth who could tell him exactly where the Ark is…Jesus. Eli accepts a difficult job and travels 120 miles, hoping to meet Jesus in Jerusalem. He overcomes many obstacles along the way only to find he may be too late–until he meets Jesus’s mother, Mary, and friend, John, who help Eli find the greatest treasure of all.

*Exciting story recommended for ages 8-12

**Faith quote:

“We can’t see Him the way He looked when He walked on the earth, but

It is truly Him. It just looks like bread…” ~Mary, pg. 179

March

Book of Ruth: A Tale of Great Loves

by Mary Kathleen Glavich, SND

This is a wonderful re-telling of the Old Testament story of Ruth. Having only four chapters, The Book of Ruth is one of the shortest books in the Bible. In Book of Ruth: A Tale of Great Loves, we get a realistic glimpse of life 500 years before the birth of Christ. This exciting story follows the brave Israelite, Naomi, who—in the spirit of Abraham—resettles with her husband and sons in the pagan land of Moab. There, Naomi meets Ruth and neither of their lives are ever the same. Middle grade through adult readers will mourn and celebrate with these women as, together, they walk a path that could only be chosen by God—a path that literally leads directly to Jesus.

*Recommended ages 12-adult

**Faith quote:

“We must be patient and trust. Things will work out all in God’s good time.” ~Naomi, pg. 95

February

Blessed Chiara Badano: Her Secrets to Happiness

by Geraldine Guadagno   Illustrated by Loretta Rauschuber

Every child (and adult too) will see a bit of themselves in Chiara and realize the rewards of living life with an eye on Jesus. This beautifully written and illustrated story highlights the reality of choosing a lifestyle, at a very early age, fully dedicated to Jesus. Through the joys and the sorrows, the accomplishments and the difficulties, Blessed Chiara models goodness and virtue by living the Gospel. Her advice to stay focused on the present moment should comfort and guide us along the path to happiness.

**Recommended ages 8-14

***Faith quote (there are many) “If you want it, Jesus, I want it too.” ~Chiara, 18, page 52

January

Talitha the Traveling Skirt

by Becky Van Vleet     Illustrated by Courtney Smith

Author Becky Van Vleet has written a beautiful story which underscores the value of family traditions. Each little girl in the family who is lucky enough to meet Talitha, the Traveling Skirt, experiences the joy that wearing the skirt brings. Along with the joy comes some mishaps, much to Talitha’s dismay–but nothing Mother can’t fix before the picture! Talitha prevails, continuing to delight many generations. Wonderful illustrations capture the special feelings Talitha evokes. Children will want to hear this story of love and belonging again and again!

**Recommended ages 4-8

*** Don’t forget Book 2 of The Traveling Series: Harvey the Traveling Harmonica

December

The Night the Saints Saved Christmas

by Gracie Jagla    Illustrated by Michael Corsini

Everyone gets sick sometimes—even Santa! But what happens when Santa gets sick on Christmas Eve? Well, the saints step in to do what they do best—they help!

Meet saints from around the world in this beautifully illustrated, rhyming story about how the saints shared Santa’s load to ensure a gift is delivered to every child on Christmas Eve. Children will love to learn interesting facts about the saints and their homelands. The true meaning of Christmas is the highlight of the story as, after delivering a token of God’s love to all children, the saints visit Bethlehem before returning to their home in heaven.

A beautiful Christmas message for all ages.

Faith quote: “The gifts are a symbol of God’s glorious love–undeserved graces sent from above.”

November

Puppy Ciao

by Annette O’Hare

Summer is approaching, and best friends Jeannie and Jonathan are at the riverbank lamenting their summer job prospects when they save two puppies from certain death. Jeannie, with the help of her friends, investigates and uncovers a trail of animal abuse. Between their jobs, family obligations, and personal distractions, they are determined to find who is putting puppies’ lives–and their own–at risk.

Recommended ages 10-14

Faith quote:  “Whatever God has planned for you, I guarantee his plan will fit you perfectly.”

-Dad, page 55

October

The Orchard’s Secret

By Templa Melnick

When the “Cousin Crew” planned to spend a month at Aunt Sarah’s peach orchard in Colorado, they expected fun—not danger. A mysterious man is determined to buy the orchard even though Aunt Sarah is not interested in selling. The first night there, the cousins thwart a home invasion with the help of Chester, the cat. It seems stealing a framed map, hanging on the wall in Aunt Sarah’s living room, was the thief’s intent. The more the cousins explore the property, the more deeply they become involved in a treasure hunt involving a puzzle box, a key, and secret tunnels. The cousins must rely on their wits, and courage gleaned from Aunt Sarah’s bible quotes to help them unearth a secret that’s been buried for years and protect the orchard from an unthinkable fate.

Recommended ages 8-13

Faith quote: “Thank you, God, for all the ways you have directed us, kept us safe, and watched over us today.” -Aunt Sarah, page 164

September

The First Ostrich to Fly

By Erik Steidl    Illustrated by Kelly P. Harrison

Grandparents always know just what to say. 😊 In The First Ostrich to Fly, a child laments being different and wonders why he cannot do things other kids can. His Nana encourages him with a lovely story about friends in nature who do not fly, swim, or even move, because they once heard a voice tell them they couldn’t. But others, who heard the same voice tell them they couldn’t, ignored the voice—and they succeeded.

In this tale, children will learn that by embracing their differences they can do things they never thought possible.

Recommended ages: 4-8

Faith quote: “Laugh your laugh, shine your light, and keep on singing your song no matter what people say.”   -Nana

August

7 Riddles to Nowhere

by A.J. Cattapan

When seventh-grader Kam is selected to participate in a riddle contest he must use his wits to overcome obstacles and succeed. You will root for Kam as he and his friends work to solve the tricky riddles and win the treasure while staying one step ahead of their competition. The stakes are high as Kam knows that finding the treasure would relieve his Catholic school’s financial woes and save it from closing. The Catholic traditions woven throughout are a bonus.

If you liked The Goonies, Jumanji, National Treasure, or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, you will love 7 Riddles to Nowhere.

Recommended ages 10-14

Faith quote: “God will provide.” -Gram, page 59

July

The Chestertons and the Golden Key

by Nancy Carpentier Brown with Regina Dorman

The young Nicholl girls, Clare, Joan, and Cecelia, lived with their widowed mother. Even though they are sisters and best friends, they each have their own passion—Clare for writing, Joan for music, and Cecelia for outdoor activity. These three passions intertwine, through a series of events, leading them to solve a mystery which has saddened their mother for many years. In this fun adventure, we meet the famous author, C. K. Chesterton, the annoying Hampton brothers, and the Nicholl’s own mischievous dog, Pepper.

This charming historical fiction story, set in 1926 England, highlights the values of kindness, forgiveness, and determination.

Recommended ages 7-11

Faith quote: “Nothing is impossible with God.” -Mrs. Chesterton, page 93

June

Mommy, Am I Strong?

Written by Michelle S. Lazurek            Illustrated by Scott Spinks

Caleb was very strong—as strong as a superhero. He could lift heavy stuffed animals and leap from couch to couch. Caleb and his cousin David were very proud of their superhero strength. So they were surprised when Caleb’s mommy told them they could be even stronger. With their big muscles, how could they possibly be any stronger? Then Mommy helped Caleb and David think about all the times they did the right thing—even when it was difficult, and how God helped by giving them the strength to make good decisions. That’s when Caleb and David realized their inside strength was as important as their outside strength and they could always depend on God.

This is a beautiful story for children about the relationship between inner strength and prayer.

Recommended ages 4-7

Faith quote:

“We can all be superheroes when we ask God to give us his grace to make us strong inside and out.” -Mommy

** Check out Michelle’s many other books a www.michellelazurek.com

May

The Rubber Band

by Christy Hoss

The only good thing that could come from being sent to the principal’s office for a crime you didn’t commit is leaving with a great idea you may have never considered. And the only good thing that could come from serving a punishment you don’t deserve is the revelation that the school bully might not be as bad as you thought. And when the great idea and the revelation collide, you have “The Rubber Band”.

A talent show contest draws Eddie and his friends into a tentative friendship with Rocky “Roadkill”, whose behavior, they find, is a result of his complicated past. When the group recognizes there is a gaping hole in their band only the talented Bossy Becca can fill, Eddie must swallow his pride and include her, realizing she, too, has an unconventional past.

Working to overcome their differences, the group persists until a health scare threatens their dream and teaches Eddie the true meaning of friendship.

Recommended ages 8-12

Faith quote:

“Unexpected friendships, given the chance, have become the most important thing to me, next to family.”  -Eddie

April

Achoo!

Written by Brenda Ramirez     Illustrated by Juan Martinez Vargas

In this story that parallels the story of Creation, Lola, the only being of her kind who lives in an empty world, blasts out her first-ever sneeze. What did she sneeze? Crayons! Lola uses the crayons to create beautiful surroundings full of life and love which she enjoys immensely—until she realizes she is missing companions. Lola then created others like herself, called chilulos, who happily share Lola’s beautiful world.

Things take a turn for the worse after Lola lovingly uses the most beautiful of her crayons to create gifts for the chilulos—useful gifts that enhance the beauty of their world. Having warned the chilulos to protect their gifts, Lola is dismayed to find they do not.

In a spectacular act of love, Lola uses the last of her special crayon to create something for the chilulos which they can never destroy and will always serve as a reminder of how much she cares for them.

Children will enjoy this beautifully illustrated story of love and sacrifice.

Recommended ages 3-7.

Faith quote:  “Every creation was beautiful and loved.”

**to purchase go to www.aikobooks.com

March

I Forgive You: Love We Can Hear, Ask For, and Give

Written by Nicole Lataif     Illustrated by Katy Betz

How wonderful it is to forgive and be forgiven. The verses and artwork in this beautiful story celebrate forgiveness and encourage children to let forgiveness become a part of who they are. The story addresses the different emotions children feel—anger and sorrow before forgiveness, and happiness and peace after. Children will identify with the characters in the story as someone who can listen for, ask for, and grant forgiveness and feel comforted by the knowledge they are imitating God’s forgiving nature. Grown-ups will find the guidance at the beginning of the story helpful, and there is a lovely prayer for children at the end. I Forgive You is a great story to reflect on during Reconciliation.

Recommended ages 4-8

Faith quote: “God forgives you every time.” page 5

February

Haunted Waters  by Jerry B. Jenkins and Chris Fabry

Thirteen-year-old twins Ashley and Bryce are looking to escape some of the personal drama they’re dealing with when they agree to visit an old mining town for the weekend with their stepfather. Ashley’s friend woes and Bryce’s bully issues have been dragging them down. They look forward to spending some time at the mountain cabin, playing games and sightseeing. They are especially interested in learning more about gold mining and actually laying eyes on a real gold nugget. The last thing they expect is to find themselves wrapped up in a mystery, targeted by a daring thief and fighting for their lives. Ashley and Bryce know the only way they can survive—and save their little brother and stepfather—is with God’s help.

Haunted Waters is an entertaining mystery/adventure for your middle grade reader. Apart from the mystery, Ashley and Bryce struggle to resolve social issues without compromising their Christian beliefs. The themes of family and faith shine through the action—and readers who love cliffhangers will not be disappointed!

Recommended for ages 9-13

Faith Quote:

“Tell her the truth. And let God do the rest.” -Ashley’s Mom

**Book 1 in the Red Rock Mystery Series

December

Stars of Wonder: A Children’s Christmas Adventure by Rebecca Dwight Bruff

Was it really three wise kings who followed a star and found baby Jesus lying in a manger? Or…was it three adventurous royal children and their friend?

One night, Princess Phoebe and her brothers, Princes Jonah, Jacob, and Nathan notice an unusual star in the sky. Convinced the star has a special meaning, the children pack their camels for a journey—and wisely invite their friend, Sumar, along. (Sumar knows everything about camels!)

As they travel, the star grows brighter, their destination grows closer, and danger grows greater. The children must use their wits and trust their intuition to find—and then protect—a very special baby.

Stars of Wonder is a fabulous story of determination and bravery in a familiar Christmas setting. With fifty pages, it’s a great choice to read aloud or encourage younger middle-grade independent reading.

Recommended ages 7-12.

Faith quote:

“The princes would learn that there are some moments so wondrous, and so extraordinary, and so beautiful that they live in one’s heart forever. They remind one that holiness and goodness are true and real.” –Nana

November

Power Up by Jessie Mattis

Lexi Hanson is managing her 11-year-old life just fine, even with the predictable sibling, friend, and school issues, but she is less than thrilled to hear the new Kids’ Church arrangement. Combine the classes? Really? All the kids aged 5 to 11 in one class?

Miss Kate, the new Kids’ Church teacher get right into introducing the Holy Spirit to the class. Lexi is only mildly interested and is ready to check out upon hearing the word “homework”—until she learns what the homework is. It can’t be that hard to pray to the Holy Spirit, right?

With the help of Miss Kate’s weekly homework assignments, Lexi begins to recognize the presence of the Holy Spirit in her life. This new relationship has an effect on her, both socially and academically. The real test comes when Lexi experiences a personal tragedy and must put all her trust in God’s plan.

This story is a win/win. Middle graders will enjoy the exciting plot as Lexi faces school, friend, and family concerns with the help of the Holy Spirit, ultimately learning that God is in charge.

A great pic for those preparing for Confirmation.

Recommended ages 8-13

Faith quote:

“The more you try listening to the Holy Spirit, the easier it will get to hear him.” -Miss Kate

October

Ghosts in the Old Attic  by Max Elliot Anderson

Twelve-year-old Sam Cooper’s life is turned upside down when his family says goodbye to Florida and relocates to Louisiana. But soon, Sam, a guy with an eye for adventure, sees the move as an opportunity to explore new places. The beautiful home where his cousins, Scooter and Missy, live is a good place to start. But, according to Scooter, there is someplace even better—an actual haunted mansion nearby. The history of the old Bourleguard Plantation includes tales of ghosts, pirates, and buried treasure. There is even a legend that says, “He who owns the mansion, owns the treasure.”

One night, when Sam and Scooter sneak onto the property, Sam finds that the mansion is even creepier than he imagined and is haunted by someone—or something!

But Sam believes in God, not ghosts. Someone does not want them there, and Sam sets out to prove he’s right. He gets his chance when his family decides to buy the Bourleguard Plantation and turn it into a Bed and Breakfast.

Ghosts are not the only problem on Sam’s mind as costs mount, threatening his family’s dream. Only their faith—and maybe an old legend—can help them.

Ghosts in the Old Attic is a fun story, full of creepy sights and sounds, and perfect to read as we approach Halloween. Enjoy!

Recommended ages 8-12

Faith quote:

“It’s okay to be a little scared. But if you wake up every morning and tell God you need Him to help you in your day…He will.” -Sam’s dad

*Book 6 in the Sam Cooper Adventure Series

September

The Edge of Everywhen   by  A.S. Mackey

Book lovers everywhere, in Piper you will find a kindred spirit…

As a librarian, I was intrigued by the idea of a book as its own narrator. What a wonderful premise! Richly (and deliciously) detailed, with an endearing cast of characters, led by 13-year-old Piper and her autistic younger brother, Phoenix, The Edge of Everywhen (and yes, everywhen is a word) is one for your ‘To Be Read’ list.

Unexpectedly orphaned, Piper and Phoenix are shipped off to the majestic home of their geographically (she lives in Maine) and characteristically (she’s borderline mean) distant Aunt Beryl.

The discovery of an impressive library in the house is Piper’s only solace as she and her brother adjust to their new lives—until they meet “Novus Fabula”, a very special book with the power to change everything.

The adventure that awaits these two at the home of Aunt Beryl brings with it a message of hope and acceptance and the certainty of God’s love. Enjoy!

Recommended ages 9-13

Faith quote:

“…God isn’t just everywhere, but He’s also everywhen…” -Mr. Greene

June 2020

I thought I’d share, in my very first post, my top five favorite books of all time:

Christy by Catherine Marshall

The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck

Morgan’s Run by Colleen McCullough

Firefly Summer by Maeve Binchy

The Stand by Stephen King

Favorite Series?

Beside Nancy Drew, of course? The Wilderness Series by Sara Donati

Care to Share? What is your favorite book/series?