Book Review: M is for Manger

Book Review: M is for Manger

M is for MangerM is for Manger is a delightful children’s book for the holiday season written by Crystal Bowman and Teri McKinley, illustrated by Claire Keay.

As it goes through the letters of the alphabet, M is for Manger features a piece of the Christmas story for little ones — from the Angel that came to Mary to the Zillions of stars in the sky.

I really enjoyed this little alphabet primer all focused on the true Christmas story. While my little one won’t be joining us in time for Christmas this year, I expect next Christmas this will be a much-loved book in our house. The illustrations are simple and adorable, while the letters and rhyming provide a great rhythmic read that children will love. And, of course, this book teaches the story of Jesus’ birth — the center of all of the Christmas celebrations in our house. I love that each page tells a piece of the story and provides the Scripture reference where you can point children when they begin asking more questions as they grow a little older each holiday.

I definitely recommend M is for Manger for all those with little ones in their lives!

I received a complimentary copy of M is for Manger from Tyndale House Publishers, but I was not otherwise compensated for this review. All writing, thoughts, and opinions are solely mine.

Book Review: The Scotties Learn About Respect

Book Review: The Scotties Learn About Respect

The Scotties Learn About RespectA little known fact about me — I love children’s books.

I am slightly obsessed with good illustrations, and I collect children’s books for myself. Above all, though, I love reading to the little ones that I care about — especially my 10 (yes 10!) nephews and nieces.

When I received the opportunity to review The Scotties Learn About Respect, I jumped on it. I have to say, I really liked this charming tale. The illustrations are hand-drawn and, of course, feature some rambunctious pups.

Archie, Flea, and Bonnie — Scottish Terriers — sometimes forget to be good dogs as they romp and play. After Mom puts new tomato plants in the ground, she makes sure all three know they aren’t allowed to play in the garden. But Archie soon finds out that sometimes his imagination gets the best of him, and forgetting to be respectful can hurt others.

Most importantly, I really love the simple, but spot on, explanation of respect portrayed in this book.

“Respect,” says Flea, “means that you honor Mom. You agree to do as she asks… Respect is a form of caring. Don’t you care for Mom?”

With children, we often talk about obedience, and we talk about love. But respect is a harder concept to grasp and more difficult to convey. A big kudos to Stephanie Robinson and Wendy Hope (both fellow Virginians) on a job well done.

Beyond that, the book revolves around animals (an obvious favorite subject of mine) and growing tomato plants (a love of Husband’s). So in all, this book is definitely a win!

I received a complimentary copy of The Scotties Learn About Respect from Ambassador International, but I was not otherwise compensated for this review. All writing, thoughts, and opinions are solely mine.