We Love Books!

There is nothing like enjoying a good book on a cold and dreary day. Starting a fire in the fire place, grabbing a craft and hunkering down to listen to Mama read. I suppose we enjoy reading aloud any time of the year, but since it is cold, the time together seems to keep us especially cozy. And we wanted to share a few of our recent favorites with you!

Black Beauty is a very sweet tale for the entire family. I would have no trouble handing this book to a nine year old to read on their own, the quality is so pure and stellar, but If you haven't read this one aloud you won't want to miss it! It took Anna Sewell seven years to write this character building volume and it really shows. It feels like you are truly enjoying her life's work as you read this . And I love this new binding as well which matches Heidi and a handful of others we love in this set. What a blessing to find these wonderful works unabridged and handsomely hard bound. Might make a nice gift.

Age recommendation: All
Editing: None

The Kingdom Series by Chuck Black was a fun and adventurous tale! Certainly exciting for boys and girls. The books are a wonderfully written Biblical allegory set in the days of knights and fair maidens. They cover Genesis to Revelation and yet will keep you guessing as you go along. So many times we had no idea what would happen next! In our expereince, the first chapter or two took a bit to catch on, but once we passed them we couldn't stop reading and we zipped through all six in a row! These books do not include magic, mysticysm or wizardry.

There are a couple scenes that a parent might want to skip near the beginning of the first novel if reading aloud with little ones and the volumes include a lot of clashing of swords and struggle as good and evil collide, but all the kids will love them and want to hear them again! They do have these on audio and as long as your expectations are set that they will not be as polished as some of the other audio drama available (such as Lamplighter's audio), then you should enjoy it. Warning: Do not read unless you won't mind sword play around your home! It's a little contagious!

Age recommendation: All (with some editing)
Editing: Some

Carry on, Mr. Bowditch was also a great book-- a must read. I might recommend for a bit older audience just so it keeps their attention.

From Vision Forum: Every young person needs to read this true story of “Nat” Bowditch, the famous Massachusetts mathematician and seaman known as the founder of modern maritime navigation. Born in 1773, Bowditch persevered through terrible disappointment, breaking through obstacles in life by learning to “sail by an ash breeze”, and ultimately changed the world for seamen through his dedication to precision. His mastery of advanced math led to new methods of calculation that were compiled in his book, The American Practical Navigator, which is still used today and carried by every commissioned U.S. Navy vessel!

Age recommendation: 9 and up
Editing: None

Heroes of History books: Clara Barton and Harriet Tubman
We decided to read both of these books near the same time since both these ladies were contemporaries during the time of the Civil Was. Some editing was required, but not much. It was interesting to do our own research (how I love to read speeches and letters that come from the hands of historical figures) and found a greater faith and trust in Christ professed than came across in the Benge's book. I would have enjoyed a bit more of that in the book. Both women sought to help wherever they were needed. Both women trusted the Lord in times of turmoil. Both women sought to help others and were recognized for it, though that was not their motive. From Clara we gleaned wisdom in how she dealt with difficult people-- it wasdefinitely by The Book and with wisdom. And from Harriet we were encouraged at how God could use and help someone who was physically weak, but strong in Him.

From the Amazon website: Clara Barton risked everything to save countless lives on the front lines of battle. Once a painfully timid child, Clara was as bold as a lion when it came to helping others, whether wayward schoolboys, natural-disaster victims, or dying soldiers.

And Harriet Tubman: Even huge rewards for her capture - dead or alive - did not stop Harriet from risking her life again and again in the fight for liberty as the nation spiraled into the Civil War. Whether running from slave hunters, advising generals, or improving condition in war hospitals, remarkable Harriet Tubman would not be satisfied until every person could experience true freedom."

Age recommendation: All (with some editing)
Editing: Some

Blessings to you!

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Photos: More photos from our sweet time with the Harder family. Aren't they cute? A fort made of blankets by little girls. Many paper air planes were made and tested this weekend. Lots of health food (ahem), smiles and laughs. Wonderful time of singing together and discussing what the Lord is teaching us. And sweet neighbors that joined us from next door-- including my younger sister Liz (pictured in grey and purple). Thank you for the joy and encouragement friends!