The League and the Lantern ~ Book Review and Giveaway

The giveaway is now over.  The winner is Alisha!  Congratulations!

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Hi there!  

Long time, no see, huh?

I've been telling myself for months now that I really should write something on my blog, but then I never got around to it.  I could give you a gazillion reasons why I haven't posted, but I won't bother.  Let's just say it wasn't exactly a priority in my life and leave it at that.

So now here we are at that awkward stage.  Long-time silence.  :)

For those of you who stuck around, thank you.  I hope to post more regularly from here on out.

Anyway, my reason for posting today is pretty exciting!  I just finished reading the book The League and the Lantern and I wanted to tell you about it.

About the book:

After a disastrous sixth grade, Jake Herndon is anxiously awaiting his Big Do-Over, starting with his new school's notorious seventh grade sleepover. Awkward team-building games and forced fun quickly become the least of his problems, however, when a dangerous organization invades and the night takes a shocking turn. Jake and two new classmates, Lucy and TJ, barely escape, only to find themselves in a fight for survival on the streets of Chicago. Over the next 48 hours they unravel a mystery dating back to the Civil War and an incredible secret about Jake's family.

Full of unforgettable characters and unexpected twists, The League and the Lantern is a jaw-dropping ride of mind-bending revelations and laugh-out-loud humor. If Jake and his new friends can make it through this weekend, they just might have a shot at seventh grade.

In this debut novel, family television executive producer and dad Brian Wells has created an epic, rip-roaring comedy adventure that's also about courage, family and friendship. The result is an engaging mix of great characters, crackling wit and unexpected twists that 9- to 14-year-olds, entertainment executives and family groups are applauding.

Wells works from the belief that great entertainment is driven by memorable characters and imaginative writing, and it shows. The League and The Lantern delivers all of this and more without objectionable language or inappropriate themes. Throw in a plot that traces back to real historical figures and you've got what some are calling Percy Jackson meets National Treasure.

As an extra bonus, the book also invisibly weaves in 140 of the top vocabulary words for middle school success. A free downloadable study guide is available on the book's website.

I started reading this book to my 10-year-old son and we got through the first couple chapters.  He's happy with me reading a chapter or two a night, but I was hooked and kept on reading without him.  (Don't worry though.  I will continue reading it to him until we finish.)  :)  I finished the book in two days!  I couldn't put it down!

Yes, it is geared towards middle-schoolers, but it is a great story that even adults will enjoy. The best part is that there is no foul language and no inappropriate scenes.  Just good, clean action and adventure.  With some surprises along the way, of course.

Actually, that's not the best part.  The best part is that for every book you buy from the website, they will give a copy away to a child in need!

If you have a son or daughter, grandchild, niece or nephew, whomever; get this book for them!  It is the first book in a new adventure series for middle schoolers.  I can't wait until the next book comes out!

Here are a few ways you can learn more about the book and the author:

Website:  https://leagueandlantern.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeagueAndLantern

Now for the giveaway part.  Since I agreed to read and review the book, I have been given permission to also give a copy away to one lucky reader!  All you need to do is answer a simple question - who is your favorite children's author?  Easy peasy!  Thanks for entering!

Winner will be announced here once the giveaway is over, so be sure to check back.  

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

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90 Minutes in Heaven ~ Review and Giveaway

A True Story of Death and Life

The true story that sold over 7 million copies is now a major motion picture!

Pastor Don Piper died January 18, 1989 when a semi-tractor truck crushed his car.  Declared dead by the first rescue workers to arrive on the scene, Don's body lay under a tarp for the next 90 minutes.  Don's soul, meanwhile, was experiencing love, joy, and life like he'd never known before.  Don was in Heaven.  

When another pastor's prayers helped bring Don back to life, he became a living miracle! Yet this is one miracle Don wished never happened.  Heaven's bliss was replaced by excruciating pain and emotional turmoil.  With the support and prayers of his beloved Eva, their three kids, and friends near and far, Don clings to his faith in God and fights to regain a semblance of his previous life.  The Piper family's incredible true story of perseverance and overcoming the challenges of life - and death - will bring hope and encouragement to all who see it. 

After given the opportunity to watch the opening scene of the movie, I can't wait to go see it! In the meantime, I was also given the opportunity to read the book.  While I haven't gotten through the whole book, what I have read so far has definitely kept my interest.  I look forward to picking it up and reading more.

About the movie presented by Giving Films:

Releases in theaters everywhere September 11, 2015

Rating: PG-13 (for intense accident and injury images) 

Starring Hayden Christensen (Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones, Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith), Kate Bosworth (Remember The Titans, Blue Crush) Michael W. Smith, Fred Thompson, Dwight Yoakam, and Jason Kennedy, 90 Minutes In Heaven is based on the inspiring New York Times best-selling book that has sold 7 million copies.  

About Giving Films:

Giving Films is passionate about sharing hope-filled movies and donating ALL of their profits to charities and ministries who serve those in need.  Beginning with their first film, 90 Minutes In Heaven, Giving Films is allowing all of us to be a part of making a difference.  Anytime you go to a Giving Films movie in theaters, visit http://www.givingfilms.com and select which charities you want to receive the profits from your ticket.  Their charitable organizations are Christian Alliance for Orphans, Faith Bridge Foster Care, Hire Heroes USA, Hope International, LifeWater, Street Grace, and World Vision. 

OFFICIAL MOVIE WEBSITE

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

GIVING FILMS

OFFICIAL TRAILER 

I hope you will go see the movie!  But in the meantime you have a chance to win your own copy of the book.  Just leave a comment on this post.  That's it!  Easy peasy!  Last day to enter is Tuesday, September 15.  Winner will be chosen and announced at the top of this post on Wednesday, September 16.

Once butterfly season (< -- click here to see what I'm talking about) is over I'm hoping to have more time to finish reading this book.  And to read a few other books that are on my list.  :)

Thank you for your time!  Don't forget to comment in order to be entered to win your own copy of this book!

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Awaken Love Devotional ~ Review & Giveaway

The winner of the Awaken Love book giveaway is Danielle!  Congratulations!

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Are you interested in growing closer to your spouse?  Would you like to experience deep and genuine love with him/her?  Then this book is a great tool to help get you there.

Kyle & Desirae Idleman put together this 6-week devotional specifically for married couples to hlep them "awaken love in their marriage.  With daily relationship insights and prayer points drawn from the Song of Solomon, The Song couple's devotional will help couples grow in their relationship with God and one another."

The book is broken down into short daily readings that spark thinking and communication. And draw the reader closer to God and to their spouse.  There is a different category for each week, such as Deepening Desire, Rediscovering Romance, and Cultivating Commitment, as well as others.

Check out this resource website!  There are some very helpful resources on this site!

Check them out on Twitter!

Check them out on Facebook!

And now, because I can, I am giving away a copy of the book, Awaken Love.  All you need to do in order to win is leave a comment telling me how long you have been married.  Or if you are not married, you can just say hello (since I can't come up with something creative for you to do).  :)

Last day to enter is Thursday, December 4.  Winner will be randomly chosen and announced on this post on Friday, December 5.

Thanks for stopping by!  Have a great week!

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PERSECUTED ~ Book Review & Giveaway

UPDATE:  The winner of the book is Sam.  Congratulations, Sam!  I'll make the necessary arrangements to get your book out to you.  Thank you!


I recently finished reading the book, PERSECUTED.  Wow!  Did I love this book?!

This is one of those books that you just don't want to put down!  It is based on the Daniel Lusko film by the same name that is being released in theaters on Friday, July 18.

Some information about the book and author ..

About The Book:

The Question Is Not IF Attempts Will Be Made to Limit Religious Freedoms, But When

And When That Day Comes, Will You Stay Silent?

The most popular evangelist of his day, John Luther, simply wants to share the Gospel and enjoy a quiet life with his family. He never asked to be at the center of a political controversy, but an ill wind has been blowing through the halls of Congress, and supporters of a new religious-equality bill see Luther's endorsement as critical. But when Luther refuses to lend his support, he unknowingly sets in motion an explosive plan bent on destroying his reputation and undermining everything for which he stands. His once-normal life is turned upside down as he becomes a fugitive left with only one dangerous option--putting everything he holds most dear at risk while he fights to expose the truth. It is a mission that brings him face-to-face with the coming storm of persecution that could threaten the very fabric of our nation's freedoms.

About The Author:

Robin Parrish is a journalist who's written about the intersection of faith and pop culture for more than a decade. He's also the author of Offworld and The Dominion Trilogy . Robin and his wife and children live in North Carolina. Visit Robin's website...www.robinparrish.com

Be sure to check out PERSECUTED the movie at a theater near you, July 18th!

Visit the official movie website: http://www.persecutedmovie.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/persecutedmovie

When I think about persecution, I think about other parts of the world.  Not here.  Not in the United States.  But persecution has many forms.  We are seeing it more and more, whether we like to admit it or not.  This book brings to light some forms of persecution right here in our nation.

Despite the heavy subject material this book is very easy to read.  And, as I said, hard to put down.  I highly recommend it!  And if you're not much of a reader (or even if you are), go see the movie!

Here's the fun part ... I get to give a copy of the book PERSECUTED away to one of my lucky readers!  Just comment on this post and let me know what the last movie was that you saw in the theaters.  Easy peasy!  Hmmm, thinking about what we last saw ... I think it was Monsters University.  It has been a while since we have been to the theater.  :)

Last day to comment is Thursday, July 24.  A winner will be chosen randomly and posted at the top of this post on Friday, July 25.  I will also email the winner if there is an email attached to their profile.  Or you can always leave it in the comments.  I promise no SPAM from me!  I don't have time for that!  :)

Finally, the fine print ...

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Thank you and good luck!

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The Sparkle Box ~ Book Review and Giveaway

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

UPDATE 11/26/13:  The winner of The Sparkle Box book is Jenniffer!  Congratulations!

When I received an email about reviewing this book, I just knew I had to do it.  When I viewed the book trailer, it had a picture of a little boy admiring a train set inside a store window.  And if you know anything about me, you may know that I have a little boy who is just a bit crazy about trains.  :)

About The Sparkle Box - A Gift with the Power to Change Christmas 

Sam is so excited about Christmas! He's thinking about his Christmas list, looking forward to holiday parties, and puzzling over one very mysterious gift: a sparkly box sitting on the mantel. In the midst of the festivities, Sam and his family participate in various acts of kindness to others. On Christmas morning, when Sam finally opens the Sparkle Box, he finds only slips of paper that record the family's good deeds. Sam's mom explains that the things that they've been doing are, in fact, a gift for Jesus, for Jesus said that whatever we do for those in need, we do for Him. 

Written by Jill Hardie

Illustrated by Christine Kornacki

Available now!

Hardcover with jacket, 10 x 10, 32 pages, with a fold-out sparkle box included!

ages 4 to 8 

Website: http://www.idealsbooks.com/The-Sparkle-Box-Jill-Hardie/dp/0824956478

 http://www.thesparklebox.com/buybook.aspx

Book Trailer: https://vimeo.com/49762666

Author Video: https://vimeo.com/49763494

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IdealsBooks

#TheSparkleBox

Author Bio

Author Jill Hardie and her family began placing a gift for Jesus under their Christmas tree as a way of bringing more meaning to the holiday.  The first time they opened His gift, the commercialism of the season melted away and they felt a profound joy and peace.  Jill hopes that The Sparkle Box will spark a new Christmas tradition, bringing light into thousands of lives.  

Illustrator Bio

At a very early age, Christine Kornacki developed a love for painting and bringing stories to life.  After receiving a BFA in illustration from the University of Hartford, her dreams of illustrating children's books began to take shape.  She spends her days painting in her studio, which adjoins a charming cafe in New Haven, Connecticut.  

Alex and I read this book together the other night.  He loved the story and the colorful illustrations.  The wonder of what exactly was in The Sparkle Box kept him engaged.  He couldn't wait for me to turn the page and read some more!

This is a great story of giving and what Christmas should really be about.  Not about getting more stuff, but about doing for others as Jesus would do.

The book even includes our very own Sparkle Box.  We look forward to filling it this year and hopefully for years to come!

If you'd like a chance to win this book for your family, just leave a comment telling me if there is one thing that you do every year to help those in need.  Maybe you volunteer your time at a homeless shelter.  Or donate toys to underprivileged kids.  Or help out a widow in your neighborhood by shoveling the snow off her sidewalk.  Whatever it might be, just shout it out in your comment.  Not as a way to bring recognition to ourselves, but just to give others ideas of things they can do to help.

I'll start ... every year we help fill shoeboxes for Samaritan's Purse's Operation Christmas Child program that our church participates in.  My kids love to go shopping for items to put into the shoe boxes.  Realizing that this is probably the only gift a child may receive makes them even more excited about giving.  We plan to do a couple other things this year also, like help an organization that supplies toys to kids in Children's Hospital and help another family in need.  Not to bring ourselves glory but to bring glory to God as we serve Him.  We are so blessed, we just wish to pass some of that along to others.

So, back to the giveaway ... leave your comment by Monday, November 25.  I will randomly draw a winner on Tuesday, November 26 and notify them by email.  So be sure to include your email address!  It won't be used for any other purpose.  No spam coming from here!  :)

Thank you for your interest!  Have a blessed Christmas!

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Rufus and Ryan Go to Church! ~ Book Review and Giveaway

Recently I was given the opportunity to read a super sweet board book for review.

Rufus and Ryan Go To Church!

In Rufus and Ryan Go to Church!, four-year-old Ryan explains to his stuffed monkey, Rufus, what is happening as they attend church on Sunday morning. He lets Rufus know when it’s time to sing and to pray and to be quiet. Author Kathleen Bostrom brings a delightfully light touch to the text as she provides an introduction to an experience that most children are exposed to long before they understand why. And children everywhere will relate to the idea of explaining their surroundings to their favorite companions as they go about their daily activities.

This is just one of the first titles in a new series of inspirational books for preschoolers.

About the Rufus and Ryan

Rufus and Ryan is a new series of books for preschoolers, featuring Ryan, an energetic little boy, and his stuffed monkey Rufus. Basic Christian and church concepts serve as the foundation of the series, with an additional focus on character traits and development. The text is presented in young Ryan’s voice as he teaches Rufus about the concepts he is learning himself. Each story is about 150 words, using age-appropriate vocabulary and themes.

Also available now, Rufus and Ryan Say Their Prayers

About the Author

Kathleen Long Bostrom is a published children’s author in both the Christian and trade markets. She has a Master’s in Christian Education and a Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching, and she has worked in children’s ministry for many years. Kathy and her husband, Greg, have three grown children and live in Illinois. 

About the Illustrator 

Rebecca Thornburgh began illustrating children’s books full-time in 1996 and today has almost 100 books to her name. Rebecca’s vibrant watercolors have been showcased in previous Ideals titles, including the new edition of The Story of Christmas. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and two daughters.

Rufus and Ryan Go to Church! 

Written by: Kathleen Long Bostrom 

Illustrated by: Rebecca Thornburgh

Publisher: Ideals Books

Board book

$7.99

Available at IdealsBooks.com

          Buy It / Stay Connected: 

          http://www.idealsbooks.com

                      https://www.facebook.com/IdealsBooks

This is a very cute board book that would be great for a preschooler.  The story is quick and easy to read and the illustrations are sweet and colorful.  I plan to give my copy to my church library so it can be enjoyed by many preschoolers (since my kids are beyond that age).  I hope they get much use out of it!

If you'd like a chance to win a copy for yourself or someone you love, here's your chance.  Just enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway box below.  Winner will be notified by email.  Thank you!  Have a great weekend!

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Grace Unplugged + Own It ~ Book Reviews and Giveaway

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned below for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Recently I had an opportunity to read a couple new books ... Grace Unplugged and Own It.  Keep reading to find out how you can win your very own copy of BOTH books!

Grace Unplugged is a novel by Melody Carlson.  Here's what the back of the book reads ...

Grace Trey is an eighteen-year-old singer as passionate about her Christian faith as she is her phenomenal, God-given musical talent.  Both traits come from her father, one-hit wonder Johnny Trey who found a new life in Jesus after losing his chart success two decades ago.

When Grace encounters her own music break of a lifetime, the sudden dive into the "real world" puts her deeper beliefs to the test.  Pop superstardom is just within reach but appears to require spiritual compromise.  Will Grace reject her faith, or will she own it?

What did I think?  I really liked the book.  The story was easy to follow and, although the ending was predictable, it kept me interested right up to the end.  The characters were believable and real.  I laughed and cried right along with them.

Oh, and the best part is that the major motion picture, Grace Unplugged, will be released on October 4!

The second book is Own It.  

Here's a quick synopsis of this book ...

About Own It, Discover Your Faith in God

The movie Grace Unplugged tells the story of Grace Trey, an ideal Christian teenager who is also a phenomenal singer. But when she is pushed into the “real world” at the tender age of eighteen after getting the music break of a lifetime, her faith is put to the test.

Own It mirrors the film by asking what it means to really “own” your personal faith rather than just automatically following in the footsteps of parents, friends, or other influencers. Best-selling authors Hayley and Michael DiMarco help readers understand what to do when faith meets real world challenges.

Without solid beliefs, poor choices are likely to follow. You must take the time to really know who you are, who you are becoming, and who God made you to be. It's your personal faith . . . own it! 

The book Own It is mentioned in Grace Unplugged.  A friend of Grace's gives it to her to read when he sees she is going down the wrong path.  The book talks about the importance of owning your faith, not just faking it or borrowing your parents' faith.  But truly understanding that "you own your faith when and only when Christ owns you."

Both books would be great for young adults to read.  Especially those who were raised in Christian homes and may be struggling with their faith.  I was not, so Own It was a little hard for me to relate to.  However, I will encourage my kids to read it when they are old enough to comprehend the message in it.

Here's some more information about the books:

About the Grace Unplugged Author

Melody Carlson has sold more than five million books. A professional writer for twenty years, she recently received the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. Melody has two grown sons and lives with her husband in the Pacific Northwest. 

About the Own It Authors

Hayley DiMarco is the best-selling author of more than thirty books including Dateable, Marriable, Mean Girls, and The Woman of Mystery. She has been a featured speaker at Women of Faith, Precept National Women's Conference, and MOPS Intl. among others and has consulted on the creation and enhancement of some of the largest stadium events for teens and young women in North America.

Michael DiMarco is a skillled communicator and teacher who has authored more than a dozen bestselling books including the 2010 Christian Bookof the Year for Youth, B4UD8 (Before You Date). He and his wife, author Hayley DiMarco, have one daughter and live in Nashville, Tennessee. 

Grace Unplugged

Written by: Melody Carlson

Publisher: B&H Books

Paperback: 304 pages 

Release Date: September 1, 2013

$15.99

            Own It           

                    Written by: Hayley and Michael DiMarco

            Publisher: B&H Publishing

            Paperback: 192 pages
            Release Date: September 1, 2013

                        $14.99 

Stay Connected: 
Grace Unplugged Movie Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graceunplugged

Grace Unpluggled Movie Twitter: @GraceMovie
Grace Unplugged Website: www.graceunplugged.com

B&H Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bhpublishing

B&H Twitter: @BHpub

And remember to check out the Grace Unplugged movie trailer. 

Whew!  Okay, so here's the best part.  One of my readers can win their very own copy of BOTH books.  Just enter via Rafflecopter (my first Rafflecopter giveaway!).  Winner will be drawn and announced on October 3.  Thanks and best wishes!

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Bash and the Pirate Pig ~ Book Review and Giveaway

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Apparently I fell off the face of the earth for a week.  :)  Actually I just didn't feel like posting anything.  Some weeks are like that.

Anyway, today I want to share with you a book that the boys and I just finished reading.

This was a fun book to read.  Nicholas, my ten-year-old especially enjoyed it.  It was right up his alley.  I would read a chapter or two to the boys in the evenings.  Most evenings they couldn't wait until it was time to read.  And they didn't want me to stop when it was time for bed.

Here's some info about the book, author, and illustrator ...

About Bash and the Pirate Pig 

Bash and the Pirate Pig, by Burton Cole, is the story of a cranky city kid named Raymond "Beamer" Boxby who must spend summer vacation at his younger cousin, Bash's, farm. 

Beamer prefers air conditioning and video games. He can't see what good can come of this so-called country fun that includes riding cows, river rafting with a pig, or playing with skunks. 

But hang tight, Beamer, because Bash's zany adventures with his "Fishin' and Farmin' book" (The Bible) just might lead to the coolest discovery of all. 

About the Author

Burton Cole is a Pulitzer Prize nominated journalist with thirty years of experience and more than fifty humor writing awards to his credit. He grew up on a farm in northeast Ohio and attended a small-town church with a slew of cousins and buddies. That same boyhood inspires his colorful stories today. 

About the Illustrator 

Tom Bancroft has more than twenty years of experience in the animation and illustration industry and worked with Disney on films including Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, and Aladdin. Other clients have included DC Comics and Big Idea Productions. 

Bash and the Pirate Pig 

Written by: Burton Cole 

Illustrated by: Tom Bancroft

Publisher: B&H Kids

Hardcover: 224 pages 

$12.99

Stay Connected: 

B&H Kids Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BHPubKids

B&H Publishing Twitter: @BHKidsBuzz

Website: http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/books/products.asp?p=9781433680694

What did I think?  Well, I mostly liked it.  I say mostly because despite how entertaining the story is, there are several typographical errors in the book.  I tend to proofread things as I read them.  Seriously, maybe I should have become an editor or something.  Some missing punctuation or a comma where a period should be.  And the name "Bush" once where it should have been "Bash".  Nick actually pointed that one out.  I read it as it was in the book and Nick corrected me.

Other than those minor annoyances--that you can probably overlook if you aren't a proofreader like me--it is a really cute story.  Two boys having summertime adventures.  One boy teaching the other about God's love and mercy.  Good stuff.  In fact, my boys can't wait until the next book in the series comes out.  (There's a sneak peek of chapter one in the back of this book.)

If you'd like a chance to win your very own copy of the book, just leave a comment on this post telling me who you would give this book to if you win.  Do you have a child who would love to read it?  Maybe a nephew or niece?  Would you donate it to your local library?  Or would you just keep it for yourself?  (That's okay too!)  Just name it and you are entered!

Last day to enter is Sunday, September 22 (which is also the first day of fall, just so you know :) ).  I'll randomly draw a winner and post it on Monday, September 23 so be sure to check back!

Thanks for stopping by!  Have a great week!

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Can't Wait Willow! {review and giveaway}

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Willow is so excited to go to the circus!  She can't wait to see the show and have some yummy cotton candy!  But on the way there, she makes some choices that leave her upset in the end.

Can't Wait Willow! is a super cute children's book that teaches a great lesson.  For children and adults.  Zig Ziglar says, "Sometimes you've got to say 'no' to the good, so you can say 'yes' to the best."

As Zig Ziglar's niece, Christy, tells in this adorable book, Willow says "yes" to some good things.  But they leave her unable to say "yes" to the thing she was most looking forward to.

We have this lesson in our house almost daily it seems.  When my kids - my boys especially - get some money in their pockets, they want to run right out and spend it.  And the things they want to buy are usually good things.  But we talk all the time about saving up for something even better.  Sometimes they listen and sometimes they don't.  And usually when they don't, they end up regretting it in the end.  So I was very excited to receive this book.  We will read it over and over again together.

About Shine Bright Kids:

The Shine Bright Kids series provides children and their families with a relevant framework to help instill solid values and teach the importance of making good choices. The principles that will be explored include: using good judgment, taking responsibility, having a positive attitude, and demonstrating perseverance.

About the Author: 

Christy Ziglar, financial planner, mother of twins and niece of legendary motivator and the world’s original optimist, Zig Ziglar, is bringing the same timeless wisdom and ageless advice to an entirely new, younger audience through her new Shine Bright Kids picture book series.  Christy is available for Q&A, author interviews, Skype calls, etc.!

About the Illustrator: 
Thanks to her first grade teacher, who recognized her superior skills in drawing a robin, Luanne Marten has been drawing, painting and sketching ever since. She is a great experimenter and has a fresh, whimsical approach to bring her characters to life.

The first book in the series: Can't-Wait Willow!

Willow is so excited that the Over-the-Top Circus has finally come to town! The only problem is, that when left to her own devices, she can’t say “no” to some good things. On the way to the show, she is distracted by enticing treats and fun that she just can’t turn down. Willow arrives late and is sad to find that, not only has she has run out of time, but money, and she won’t be able to enjoy the pink cotton candy she’s been dreaming of. Willow is given valuable advice and a second chance and is ultimately taught the lesson that sometimes in life you have to say “no” to good things to end up with something great!

If you'd like a chance to win a copy of Can't Wait Willow! to read to your kids or donate to your favorite teacher or library, just leave a comment telling me your favorite children's book author.  Me?  I love Dr. Seuss!  I could read Dr. Seuss books all the time!  So who do you like?

Need more information?

Website: The author's website has great resources to support the book, including a printable poster with 'Ways to Shine Bright,' as well as reward chart you can use at home with your children.

Visit: http://www.alwaysshinebright.com

The publisher site is: http://www.idealsbooks.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IdealsBooks

Pictures of you and your family enjoying Can't-Wait Willow! are encouraged on Facebook and Twitter! :)

Trailer: https://vimeo.com/63779686

The last day to enter to win your own copy of Can't Wait Willow! is Thursday, May 16.  I will randomly pick a winner on Friday, May 17, and announce it here on my blog.  Thank you!


Also there's still time to enter to win a copy of the DVD movie, Ring the Bell.  Go check out my review and enter!  The winner will be chosen on Tuesday, May 14.

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