Youth Books

New Day has a series of eight little action and rhyme books. This one is perfectly suited for a little children's Christmas play. The kids love the action and the repetitive and rhyming nature of the book makes memorization easy. The kids love it.

My three year old granddaughter gives it the thumbs up!

This is another favorite story from Bible in action rhyme. Stephanie Jeffs teams up with illustrator Chris Saunderson in this memorable story of the three wise men from the East, the Star of Bethlehem, and the giving of gifts to the Baby King, Jesus. The brilliant color illustrations, the action movements pictured and the simple narrative all combine to make this a delightful story for the Christmas season.

The search begins with the star, the vision of a new king, traveling from afar, and the discovery of the baby king. As the wise men worship the new found king they bring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

"Follow the star with the Wise Men" is a good choice for the advent season. The story can be read by early readers themselves, dramatized, included in family time celebrations, or for bed time reading. A delightful reminder of the message of Christmas.
Reviewed by Richard R. Blake, a Christian Education Consultant

Action and adventures await the reader. The entire series are fun for kids. It is something kids and their parents can do together.

I love this series, Action Rhyme Books, from New Day Publishing. Each part of the Nativity story is accompanied by an action for toddlers through 1st graders to act out - "Point point" to the Star - "Search search" for the King. This could even be the script for a Christmas play; parents might even want a copy for themselves!

This novel steps back to the begining of last century and presents a message to readers that spans over the ages."Fortress of the Heart: the Story of Anna" is a non-fiction novel that embraces the incredible journey of Anna Buchanan Coleman with such insight and clarity that the reader is sure to recognize her in a strong woman they know personally.
Coleman-Wells reached with both hands into the colorful tapestry that her mother, Anna, called life. As a result Ms. Wells constructed a masterpiece. This book could have gone several directions as far as theme. Anna Buchanan's life was chocked full of gender discrimination, racism, colorism,abuse, economic disadvantages, struggle for higher education being a minority....the list goes on.
Instead of focusing on negative circumstances that Anna endured, Shirley Coleman Wells plucked the gold thread of her mothers life to immortalize in this book as Anna's legacy...simply love. Out of bitter tears, lonliness, hurt,and abandonment sprang love that was well appreciated by Anna, like a cooling rain after a drought.
This novel, although heart wrenching and tear jerking at several points, celebrates life. The proverbial "calm after the storm" is personified in the life of Anna as a result of her strength, faith,resolution and service to others. "Fortress of the Heart" could have spanned several categories including drama, suspense, horror, romance and educatonal. But undoubtedly, after the last page is read, the reader will surely agree there is only one category that does this book justice........as a classic.

An inspirational story of how the hate of prejudice was overcome by the love of friendship. A most enlightening, thought provoking book, that touches the heart and soul. This is a must read for adults and children alike.

What a story! What heartache she went through and what trials and tribulations to have to endure as a child. Every chapter keeps you crying with her or laughing with her or yelling horray for you Anna. Everyone should read this book to find out what life can really be like with stupid prejudices and then find out how life can be without them. Should be required reading in the schools.

When I started this book, I did not know quite what to expect. Then when I couldn't put it down for four hours, I wanted more and more. It is so amazing that during the time frame of years this book was written that there was "reverse" discrimination against this woman's mother. Look at what that woman had to endure - seeing her mother run so her father wouldn't shoot her because she was white. Ms. Wells did an incredible job of taking us from the turmoil and heartache through the life of this wonderful woman, Anna. Every page is so beautifully written and so incredibly believable. Please, Please, tell us there is another of her books out there somewhere. She is a master and deserves the highest applause for this incredible piece of literature. This should be in all the libraries and in our schools. I will read this book over and over again, and I'm sure I will cry over and over again and laugh and applaud over and over again as I did the first time I read it. Thank you, Ms. Wells, for this beautiful story. This proves that true life is better than fiction. God Bless You.

Methuselah? Faggetaboutit ...if you want the secret to longevity, read this book. Kotulak proves once again why he is worthy of the Pulitzer. The style and pace of this book not only make it one of the best scientific reads of the past decade, the language also simplifies the science without stripping away its essence. I highly recommend "The Garden of Eden Molecule".

In this so-called "Age of the Human Genome," we are constantly bombarded by news that genetics, not environment, is the final arbiter in determining how sick we all will end up sooner or later. Fortunately, there are a few good science writers who are helping to set the record straight in this continuing nature-nurture debate. Ronald Kotulak is one such writer, whose book "The Garden of Eden Molecule" provides a timely wake-up call to aging baby-boomers who might otherwise succumb to genetic fatalism. His clear descriptions of what goes on inside our bodies as we grow older -- and, more importantly, his compelling arguments of what lifestyle changes we need to make in order to stay healthy as we age -- make this book a must read for anyone who cares about making the most of life.

From great writers come great insights and captivating books. Ron Kotulak has done it again with "The Garden of Eden Molecule."

At a time when new genetics books are popping up almost daily heralding the power of our genes in controlling all aspects of our lives, this Pulitzer Prize winner brings new clarity and rationality to the national dialogue how we age.

Despite the gene-of-the-day public relation blitzes reported as news in the media promising to do this or that (but never being held accountable), here is an on-target book that looks beyond the tempting (and marketable) genetic basis of aging.

There are more things about people than the sum total of their genes. Kotulak writes: ..."the more we know about how and why we age, the more we can control our fate. We have far more to say about how long we live than do our genes."

A beautifully constructed and excellently written book that I will read again. And certainly one of the best books you'll find anywhere on how people age.

Hats of to the author, and may more books follow.

At last, the inside scoop on what it takes to live longer, healthier lives. This book is short and to-the-point, and Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter Ronald Kotulak has the knack of making the most complicated concepts as easy to follow as a recipe for apple pie. What's unique about The Garden of Eden Molecule is it's not just another opinion from a self-proclaimed "expert" with an idea that might (or might not) prolong our lives. Kotulak goes to the real experts - the doctors and scientists who are too busy to write best sellers; they're hard at work learning what makes us tick -- and why some people go on ticking for 80, 90, or 100 years and longer. This is the report from the front lines of science: What we know, what we don't know, what works and why. There are no "quick fixes" here, but if you have common sense, Kotulak's user-friendly writing makes clear what we need to do to live better and live longer. Sure, we all know "free radicals" are bad, and we should get plenty of antioxidants. But how many of us take this advice seriously? Who knows why these things are so important? What do the experts say about how we can prevent or cure cancer, heart disease, diabetes or Alzheimer's? This book gives you the knowledge of the world's top researchers, plus practical advice based on what's scientifically proven to prolong life. Dianne Helkenn, Senior Science Writer, Public Communications Inc.

I got a huge relieve when I found out I wasn't alone, it made me so happy. I'm glad I have this book to be my guide, and I can read it over and over when I want comfort...

I got this book and opened it right away. I skipped to the chapter on downlow and coming out. It made me feel a lot better. I didn't come out yet, but I will, because it tells me how to do it safely, and with a backup plan. This book helped me a lot.

This was an outstanding book.......i even let a couple of my friends read it......I wish i had this book b4 i started in "tha Life".......i say that because it tells you damn near EVERYTHING you need and want to know about "Tha Life".......It left out little things, but i would recommend this book to anyone coming out, out, about to come out, or in the closet......My Hats off to the author...... A job WELL DONE!!

its a great and real book. i kove how it comes from a young person

Girls in America is a revealing, eyes-wide-open look at the secret world of young girls today. The girls interviewed in this book are direct and open about what's behind their thoughts and actions. They reflect on the messages they get from their parents, peers, and the American culture, then with great inner strength and wisdom, tell us how they cope and prevail. Every girl... each teenage mother, young athlete and beauty contestant ... has something worthwhile to share with us and teach us. This book is powerful, insightful and inspiring!

What a great book! I am a mother of two young girls and find it exteremely helpful to understand what teenagers are thinking about. Carol Cassidy's book is a must for anyone who is concerned about what goes on beyond your home and what your daughters needs are. We, mothers, love to give advice--but this is an advice for us from our girls.

The stories and words of beauty queens, swimmers, cheerleaders and teen moms alike are gathered in an involving collection which will appeal to middle school ages on up. Cassidy traveled across the country gathering the words and stories of American girls ages 14-19: their stories present a diverse cross-section of teen experience.

This is a very important book. A must read for anyone who cares about what is happening with young American women today.

What an absolutely delightful book this is. First, the cover design is sure to catch the eye; it is bright and inviting, wooing you to taste the morsals of spiritual wisdom inside. What is this work about? How to live a better life by living the Word of God. This is done in a non-preaching way, light-hearted yet packed with the truth of the Word of God. We have topics such as words, worth, and relationships and we have questions, answers and tips to help along the way. The format is a personal, easy to follow read and draws you from one page to another.
All in all this book is a big winner. It's real, it's fun and will be a jewel in any readers hands, young or old. Highly recommended!

I got this book in order to mentor one of the students at my church. The book was so good that I am now doing a group study with 12 girls in our youth group. The book meets teenage girls where they are, and helps them to develop a Godly character in themselves. It teaches them about things that they deal with on a daily basis, like gossip, relationships and who they are in Christ. Point of Grace did a terrific job at writing this book and I recommend it to anyone with teenage girls. I also recommend it to parents to help them understand what their teenager is or will be dealing with at school and in their social circle.
Love the book!!!!!

Make it Real is a devotional and Bible study workbook for Christian teenagers. This guide looks at a variety of real issues that young adults face on a daily basis such as gossip, body image, and self improvement. Christian pop artists Point of Grace share their wisdom on a wide variety of topics and give advice on how to stop the habit of gossip, being genuine, choosing role models, and creating a healthier self image. Each section is complete with study guide exercises including Bible scripture readings and questions relating these reading to the subject at hand.

Make it Real shows young girls that Christian values and Biblical scripture are directly relevant to their lives. It also illustrates the importance of healthy body images. The members of Point of Grace are great Christian role models that try to live what they preach and really feel that f teaching teenagers to be true to themselves and their Christian faith is important.

Point of Grace is a popular Christian singing group with a particular attraction to teenage girls. As part of their ministry they regularly have conferences for teenage girls called Girls of Grace. This book is basically a devotional and Bible study workbook for teenage girls. In it the members of Point of Grace discuss many of the most common problems of teenage girls. These include gossip, being true to yourself, dealing with the games they play, and self-esteem issues. Make It Real delivers Christian based answers and guidance for those dealing with these most common of teenage issues. Each section ends with discussion topic questions that make the book a good guide to get young girls thinking about how to apply the information in their everyday life. Make It Real is a highly recommended book both for any teenage girl and for parents seeking to understand, or remember, the problems of being a teenager and how that has changed today.

I just finished reading this book, and really loved the fact that you can get advice from a mom and a daughter. The book is funny, has lots of stuff to do, and has loads of interesting and very useful information. The authors really understand kids my age.

I have been reviewing books for girls who are in their preteen years. The interactive book I like best is "Girls: What's so Bad about being Good?" (Authors: Harriet Mosatche and 12 year-old daughter Liz Lawner). The format is teen friendly and inviting. A wide range of topics will captivate young readers. The book is written in a format that will guide and encourage young women to make positive choices. Highly recommended.

This book has everything I was looking for. The best part was that the information was down to earth, stuff I can actually use in my life. When I had my copy at camp, all the other girls kept grabbing it so they could read it too!

What a great book this is - I bought it for my daughter who is at an age where she has lots of questions - some easy to ask, some not. This book has provided a save place for those questions along with work sheets to get her "journaling". I have and will recommend this book to my friends with daughters this age (11+).

Linda Masters has created a clear-minded, exuberant body of work obstensably for children; this is a work that might equally be called "Spritual Parables for Adults" as well as "Gold Fish and Silver Kisses." More than art, her work is a gift to all who read it. It encapsulates, without airless theological retoric, the lessons, trials, and ultimate rewards of the strivings for a truly meaningful and moral life. Learing to have life more abundantly is the real Christian message, a message Ms. Masters sends to all children and adults willing to see their world anew.

Gold Fish and Silver Kisses, How to Talk to Children about God, is a beautifully written, doctrinally sound book that puts important Biblical concepts into easily understandable language. Mrs. Masters "puts the cookies on the bottom shelf so the children can get at them." Each short devotional ends with the suggestion of small gift to give the child as a reminder. For example, in the story of Gideon, "Armed with God's Trumpet", she suggests giving small plastic trumpets.

This book would be extremely useful to Christian parents, grandparents, homeschoolers, youth workers and pastors.

This book is really a classic! And there is nothing else like it available for parents. Linda Masters has written 101 "sermons" for toddlers and pre-school children about the Bible and God; they are all charming, the style is warm and loving and she offers tips and techniques for adults about how to use these "sermons" in any church setting.
This book would also be a welcome gift at baby showers, at baby christenings and at early birthdays. Or just to give to parents of young ones.

Donating this book to churches in memory of relatives would also be worthwhile.
"Gold Fish and Silver Kisses" is simply a wonderful book!

A must for every Christian, or simply moral, home. The sermons are written for the average child to understand but more importantly to internalize. They are spiritual, moral lessons based on scripture (with specific Bible verses and prayers) designed for meaningful family times, Sunday school classes, Christian schools, children's sermons at a church of any Christian denomination. I have personally seen groups of children (and their parents!) mesmerized by the author's presentations. The suggested tokens add an extra dimension to the lessons and act as memory enhancers that really work! Excellent for newborn gifts, grandparent gifts, gifts for yourself! This is a book that will be around for generations to proudly pass down and enjoy sharing together for decades.

This book is thoroughly enjoyable, with M. M. Kaye describing her idlyic days in India in a wonderfully interesting, humorous way, which makes this book a pleasure to read and a must own!

What a terrific book--nostalgic, romantic, funnny, poignant. I was utterly charmed once again by Ms. Kaye's writing. Her descriptions of visits to the Taj Mahal and spring in Kashmir are beautiful. I can't wait to read "Enchanted Evening."

Ms. Kaye has the most wonderful way of describing scenes, colors, and events of an era never to be seen again. Her family led a story-book life of adventure and she makes it look so easy to overcome the forces of nature that were part of living there with very few, if any, modern conveniences. It was a delicious read and I hope Ms. Kaye is busily at work on the next book of her travels in China! I am grateful for this journey back into a gentler, quieter time.

At long last, the sequel to Sun in the Morning -- and as always, M.M. Kaye's writing is evocative, sumptuous, and addictive. (The Far Pavilions is one of the two books I always travel with -- the other is Gone With the Wind -- because I can start reading anywhere and become totally immersed, no matter how many times I've read it.) No one is better at evoking that time-lost period before the Second World War; the details are not only fascinating but reveal to us moderns what the world once was like (which in British India in many cases seems rather closely to resemble E.F. Benson's town of Tilling...). Since I owe not only my interest in, but my several-hundred-volume library on, India to reading The Far Pavilions, I must admit a certain partiality here -- and a burning desire to read the sequel to Golden Afternoon.

I run youth programs in Iowa, and after reading Mr. Wolff's book I feel more educated in the world of youth sports. Not only will this help me in my programs but also at home with my three sons.

I've enjoyed reading Rick Wolff's columns for years - every one seems to be just on the mark. This book is a great compendium of his thinking, caring approach to being a coach and parent. Any parent signing up a child in youth baseball (or any sport) should have to promise to read this book!

Not only does Wolff point out some of the problems with youth sports today, he also gives solutions. As a concerned parent and coach for my children's basketball, softball and soccer teams, I thought I had a pretty good handle on the important ingredients for coaching and being an encouraging parent. This book renewed me and now my children and their teams are enjoying sports more and becoming more successful. I re-read the book prior to every season and get more out of it each time.

This is an excellent overview of the proper attitude to have in coaching kid's sports, as well as containing good tips for parents on their role. But I wonder if it needs a chapter on getting the people who need to read it to actually read this book. I think the concerned parent, the one who wants to learn, will seek out this book. It is the unconcerned parent or coach, who thinks they know how to mold champions, that won't even think to read a book like this.

If there is one criticism of this book, it is that it tends to focus on team sports and does not explore the differences of how to interact with a child involved in individual sports (running, swimming, tennis, golf, etc.). Of course, the biggest abuses of poor coaching and loutish parental behavior tend to be in team sports like baseball. But I think the book would be improved with more specific examples related to individual sports to complement the information about team sports