2020 Holiday Reads

Holiday reads + Cup of Wassel = Precious Downtime 

  Jennifer Chiaverini  ISBN: 9781101984796 Holiday/Historical Romance

In 1860, a writer's family begins to celebrate Christmas. Yet, there is such political unrest and all joy of the season isn't or can't be embraced. One moment in time can change the course of many. If you have ever read Henry Wadsworth Longfellow you will discover an "insider's" view into his word crafting.

Sophia, struggles with the new direction of her school and her music department. With a spectacular Christmas program concluded, she must take a renewed look into what her future will look like for her students... for her career. Will there be a location change? She chose to stay in her position, in her church, and end an engagement that would have moved her away from those she loved. Now what?

Lucas has only known Sophia for three years. He knew she needed a friend. Is this time for him to extend a hand during her struggles? Could an offering, a cup of coffee and friendship, bring about a perceived promise? Or a wasted opportunity?

With the shadow of a Christmas classic, Chiaverini masterfully blends the pen of Longfellow with the dilemma of Sophia's acceptance and choices during this Christmas season. Two periods of time; two lives on a journey during critical seasons; one choice made; and another... a choice in which inspiration from a poem will once again ring out truth's wisdom in another's life. Beautifully crafted!

 Debbie Macomber  ISBN: 9780399181283 Holiday Romance

Palmer is an "Alaskan man." Ponder is in the wilderness, far removed from most of civilization. The only time that "new" people are in town is when the Caribou Lake Lodge is open. So, Palmer has no clue what to do his feelings for a certain young "chef" that joined the staff at the lodge. By the end of October, he will need to consider just what will happen if Josie heads back to Seattle.

Jack is the lodge's hunting guide, he's as old as the "scenery," and just as ornery as the wildlife! If you ever had a friend who can be brutally honest, then Jack is the man. In his opinion, Josie is the cook that makes a "moose stroganoff" like no other. Palmer had better not let her leave!

Josie has only been in Ponder for six months, her longest time away from home and her mother. Her life in Seattle had given her such valuable training as a Sous-Chef. There were so many opportunities and valuable experiences for her in Seattle. Now that the lodge was closing, she has been offered "the" career opportunity of a life time. Of course, nothing really compares to the beauty of Alaska. The friends she has made, the hikes, the grandeur of the land, and Palmer. Yet, Seattle is her career making move. She has never experienced an Alaskan winter and without the lodge being open what good is being a chef without the visitors? Working with Chef Anton just isn't an opportunity to pass on... right?

Yes, this is a delightful winter adventure. Yes, this novel has settings that creates a slow-down and enjoy the moment scenery. Yes, there is a romance with a chance of a lifetime. Yes, there are conflicting heart choices. And... yes, oh yes, there are the most hilarious conversations.

Nothing could be better for a quick Holiday read...

 Jennifer Chiaverini  ISBN: 9780062841131 Holiday/Realistic Fiction

The Elm Quilters have a new dilemma, a winter storm has ruined the church's roof, the hall was to host the Christmas Boutique, now what will the ladies do? Who is responsible? Just what could the quilters do at a time such as this?

The Christmas Boutique is a "staple" for their community. With its home-baked goodies, seasonal crafted gifts, and beautiful quilts to comfort any heart and home... what will the community do with out the funds the boutique earns? The decision of a new location for the event will bring everyone back to the Elm Creek Manor. Not just those attending the event, the quilters and their best quilts will be active in pulling the boutique together.

The stories behind those quilts, the struggles and the hopes, every stich has its own story... this book is a fond return for those who have been a fan of earlier books. It is an endearing discovery of these characters in Elm Creek. It is a "cozy" read for any book lover who reads with a cup of hot chocolate and a quilt. It is a novel about life unfolding... a "stitch in time!"

Whether you've read any of the other Elm Quilt titles, this is a "heartening" novel that brings about the truth in "crafting" friendships.

  Amy Clipston, Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Irvin  ISBN: 9780310352808

Cookies and Cheer (Clipston):

Alyssa is working at the Ronks Bakery for Denise. Even though Denise, an Englisher, bought the bakery from the previous Amish baker, she has continued with the Amish traditions. Denise has worked for her for so long. Now she gets to put her window designs into reality. This Christmas theme will be her best display, as long as Denise approves of its design. Has Alyssa taken on too much for this holiday season? Can she overcome her guilt about this season's overflow of chaos for Denise? How should family, the truth  of Christmas, and her time factor into her life?

Kyle was taken by surprise when Alyssa showed up at his father's metal shop. Here she was asking him, to help her, with a Nativity themed "cookie-cutter" display for the bakery. Cookie cutters, of course he can create these designs. Could this be the opportunity he has been waiting for? Would Alyssa agree to a few "innocent" outings? Just how much is he willing to do for Alyssa, is there a limit when life enmeshes with the world's fast-paced Holiday rush? Will commercialism continue to overshadow his participation in Alyssa's life?

Loaves of Love (Wiseman):

Katie is filled with a joy that she is accomplishing so much for her mother's bakery. Now that her mother is recovering from a medical procedure, Katie is the only baker, shop-keeper, and employee getting her family's generational pies and baked goods into the hands of their loyal patrons, as well as all visitors. For Katie the largest obstacle is the wood stoves that she must bake with. It takes so long to fill orders. Is it possible that a current "boy friend," has an unbelievable gift that might provide an answer to her baking needs? Even though her mother would not approve, there is not any real reason not to upgrade the wood stoves... or is there? What would be the real cost of her decision? Is there any hope in something "more" with Henry? Will Katie face the music?

Henry has known Katie their entire lives. Their families have always been close. They even share the same birthday. Henry has never really allowed himself to ask Katie to do anything beyond their church socials. With the promptings of his family, he hopes that this is the day that he would ask Katie to go with him to diner. Today would be the day! Who is this stranger that seems to know Katie? What is their relationship? Has he missed his opportunity with Katie?

Clara is a friend of Henry's sister. After an initial "re-introduction," Clara is hoping that there just might be a chance to re-new a promising friendship with Henry. Every outing leads Clara into a hopeful relationship that appears to have so many blessings. Until, that one dinner in which they stop by the bakery for desert. What really is happening between Henry and Katie? Should she help Katie with her baking? Katie seems to have too many "men" trying to pull her into so many directions, obviously she should offer a helping hand. But then what?

*A quick moment to ponder... Often, while reading a beautiful nugget of inspiration occurs. Here is a beautiful idea for this season of giving: "There are many biblical mentions of the number twelve in the bible... So, each year my husband and I would get twelve loaves of bread from different bakeries... we would ask God to point us in the direction of those He wanted us to offer up extra blessings... 'Loaves of Love' we called them."

Melting Hearts (Fuller):

Mattie has arrived in Birch Creek to help at her Aunt's bakery. Working in the bakery is a joy, as is lodging with her Aunt and Uncle. Yet, when she discovers that they have also invited the man who is building an addition onto their house to stay... well life couldn't be so cruel, or could it? Exactly how will Mattie be in their home with a man that caused her best friend such distress? What do you do when you feel that someone's choices of cruelty should be held accountable, not invited into your home. She has given her word to be of help, she won't back out on that promise. Should she accept Peter's offer of a truce? Could she keep the truce, given the friendship she has with Lizzy? 

Peter has been offered a job, with lodging, with Carolyn and Atlee. It is a great opportunity to be helpful and return a kindness. That is until he arrives at the bakery and hears Carolyn calling to Mattie? Her name "sets his teeth on edge." Merry Christmas... will the next few weeks be an eternity? At some point, he will need to make peace with Mattie. He hoped Lizzy would have told her the truth by now, unfortunately this situation might get dicey before Lizzy clears up her lies. Can you change someone's understanding with kindness? After all, Mattie and grew up knowing him, couldn't she see past the falsehoods?

Cakes and Kisses (Irvin):

Ambrose is a man blessed with many talents, as well as a pure heart. At thirty he lived in Jamesport, the town he was born in. He may have lacked the desire of his heart, yet his life was good. He found contentment with his life, his home, and those in his community. Just about the time his cousin arrives, Ambrose learns that his home could be taken by the bank. Will he accept the help he is offered? At his age, is it possible that he could learn to read? How much responsibility could he take care of? As a "simple man," could he hope in a future beyond his front porch?

Martha works at the Sweet Tooth bakery, she has always had a place in heart for Ambrose. His smile always brought a smile to her face. She knew that God had a plan for her, yet in these trying times all she could do is pray that God's will would be done. Could it be possible that, in some "great" moment, God's will would bring her the blessing she is hoping for? How can she balance her desire to help Ambrose with her deepest desire of love for a man who isn't ready to accept anything beyond friendship?

It is a rare read that brings "goodness" to your heart. This story is one of reflection, for when we think of falling in love... in these days... many seek appearances and financial security. I wonder, which life is richer? A marriage in which two pure hearts are united or a marriage in which two hearts are seeking all the world can offer?

*Only through the opportunity as a book reviewer and the Fiction Guild did I discover the joy of opening a box of books that would introduce me to the lives within Amish Romance. 

I will cherish every moment of inspiration and goodness that these authors have given. 

Thank you Fiction Guild for recognizing the hopes of your readers!

"I received this book, An Amish Christmas Bakery, from the Fiction Guild for this review."

 It's beginning to look like... Holiday moments with a cup of goodness!

Every title has just the right measure sweetness for gifting.

Indivisible by Travis Thrasher

Travis Thrasher

ISBN; 9780785224051

Publisher's Synopsis:

Inspired by true events, 

Indivisible is a story of love, service, and finding each other all over again.

Darren and Heather Turner share a passion for serving God, family, and country. When Darren is deployed to Iraq as an army chaplain, Heather vows to serve military families back home as she cares for the couple’s three young children.

Darren knows he’s overseas to support the troops in their suffering as their chaplain. What he doesn’t know is how he will get through his own dark moments. And as communication from Darren dwindles, Heather wonders what is happening in her husband’s heart. Meanwhile, she’s growing weary in the day-to-day life of a military base—each child’s milestone Darren will never see, each month waiting for orders, each late-night knock on the door.

When Darren returns, he is no longer the husband Heather once knew. She is no longer the woman Darren wed. And so it’s at home that the Turners face their biggest battle: to save their marriage.

Based on the screen play by David Evans, Indivisible is a tribute to the beauty of serving our country, the courage of choosing love in the darkness, and the power of a God who never gives up hope.

"A wound that goes unacknowledged and unwept

is a wound that cannot heal."

John Eldridge, Wild At Heart

MrsK's Review:
It is rare that a prologue will become a unique perspective for the words that follow. When words "hook" you as a reader, you tend to turn the page with an expectation that either becomes an expectation or it evaporates as you read on. What would you expect from these words:

"So many special times to choose from. I have hundreds of good memories.

But we've stopped making new ones."

This is the story of a Chaplain, his experiences in the armed service, and his coming home to his wife, family, friends, and continued calling. The timeline begins pre-deployment in 2007 when Darren began listening to the "deep whispering" within. Things can get messy and uncomfortable when you choose to step out in faith. How do follow through with such an uncertain decision? This section is about daily living as a new reality is unfolding. It's beautiful strength is in the perfected weaving of scripture and narrative. It portrays a marriage that continued to build its relationship on an unshakable foundation. 

"No one prays harder for peace

than those of us in war!"

Deployment 2007 begins in May as Darren corresponds with his friends and family, especially Heather his wife. As with any separation, Darren's faith becomes a stronghold for his new normal. Nothing is ever safe, free from emotions, or endless as Darren is in the field. All of the men and women on assignment with him become a necessary family foundation, one in which one life touches another. Deployment, war, and death. Darren's hope endures but to what depth will he walk back home?

This novel is about faith in action. Courage is enduring the trials that we all have very little control over life and death issues... choices made are our only defense. Outcomes that wound us become stumbling blocks of survival. And yet, survival can turn into a "grit" of hope and new seasons.

A unique retelling about one man, one marriage, one life, death of many, and one walk of enduring faith. An inspirational read,
MrsK 

"In light of eternity, all of this is but a

grain of sand on the seashore."

A story of faith, love, and overcoming that which comes against us!

Meet the Author:

 Bestselling author Travis Thrasher has written over 50 books, spanning genres in fiction, nonfiction and children’s literature. His inspirational stories have included collaborations with filmmakers, musicians, athletes, celebrities and pastors.

With the childhood goal of pursuing a writing career starting in third grade, Thrasher worked for 13 years at Tyndale House Publishers after graduating college. His experience working with authors allowed him to understand the writing life as well as training him to work with a variety of personalities. This experience has proven to be valuable with co-writing projects.

His novels are as diverse as the people he’s worked with, ranging from love stories to supernatural thrillers. This storytelling ability has also allowed him to work with others on their books, from country musician and American Idol winner Scotty McCreery to Bill Klein and Jen Arnold, reality TV stars of The Little Couple. Upcoming projects continue to expand his talents, with projects including Olympic Pride, American Prejudice about the lives of the other 17 American black athletes who competed in the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin and Baby Don’t Hurt Me about comedian Chris Kattan’s life and time on Saturday Night Live.

Travis lives with his wife and three young daughters in a suburb of Chicago and fittingly enough will have a children’s book entitled Brave Girls Confidential released later in 2017.

"I received this book from the Fiction Guild for this review."

God Bless You and Good Night by Hannah C Hall

Hannah C. Hall

ISBN: 9781400209231

Publisher's Synopsis:

Bedtime Bibles and storybooks are evergreen classics that sell through year after year. Seasoned brands and new names alike are seeing surging sales in this felt-need genre as parents are looking for comforting books with Bible stories, verses, and prayers to settle kids down to sleep.

In "God Bless You and Good Night," sleepy little ones are reminded of God's blessings and how much they are loved. The delightful rhyming story takes readers through several scenes of snuggly animals who are getting ready for bed. These sweet, sometimes silly rhymes and adorable art are sure to make "God Bless You and Good Night" a favorite part of the bedtime ritual for parents and children.

MrsK's Review:

Every parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle knows that bedtime for little ones can take on a life of its own. Those little ones yawn and fight to stay awake and not miss one single moment. Getting them tucked in can be a joy. Lights out can be a struggle. This sweet story offers the promise for sweet moments to snuggle, to "lull" a cadence of comfortable security, and gifts of tenderness.

"It's time to stretch from small to tall

To see the moon so bright.

It lights our way and seems to say,

"God bless you and good night."

This copy is the touch and feel version of the story. Each small animal has a parent helping them in the process of getting ready for bed. What is so endearing, is how little fingers just have to "feel" each page even as they are drifting off to sleep.

Such a sweet invitation... take the precious moments to snuggle up with this book!

MrsK

A sweet story...

Promised memories...

Moments to be tucked away within your heart!

Meet the Author:

  Hannah Hall’s future truly began to take shape on her first day of Kindergarten. Paired up to be in a reading group with a mischievous little redheaded boy, Hannah both realized her love of well-written story and met her future husband.

Just a couple years down the road, on her seventh birthday, Hannah’s mother dressed up like a gypsy, gazed into her crystal ball (aka snow globe) and predicted that Hannah was going to grow up to be an author. Her powers were astonishing.

Sadly, time passed and Hannah became too “cool” to read and write stories. She immersed herself in trying to be popular, struggled with who she was and who God wanted her to be, and forgot that He had made her to write.

But God was faithful.

After she graduated from college with a degree in Broadcasting, Hannah realized that the life of a news anchor was not for her. She floated from job to job, wrote for teeny tiny magazines, learned to be a wife, settled in small-town Arkansas, and fell deeply in love with God before taking on the both the greatest and hardest job she’s ever had: being a mom.

Now as a wife to a red-bearded worship pastor and a homemaker with a growing family, Hannah is passionate about bringing God glory wherever she is and in whatever she’s doing, whether it be in the midst of “training” one of her five kiddos, through discipleship with younger women, or through writing little books for little readers.

Hannah has published thirteen books, including bestsellers God Bless You and Good Night, God Bless our Fall, God Bless our Christmas, God Bless our Easter, Sunrise, Easter Surprise, and Star Bright, Christmas Night. Hannah’s first picture book Would a Worm Go on a Walk? was a finalist for the ECPA Christian Book Award and was included on Focus on the Family’s list of Top Ten Picture Books.

Her life mission is to please God, however that may look. And though she fails (often and badly) her life verse reminds her that God is good and He is faithful:

“Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has done for her will be accomplished!”

 Luke 1:45

To God be the glory.

Unbridled Faith by Cara Whitney

Cara Whitney

ISBN: 9781400303311

Publisher's Synopsis:

Through years spent working with these majestic animals—Cara Whitney has learned countless spiritual lessons that have brought her closer to God.

In 100 heartfelt devotions with stunning photography, you'll learn about being flexible in your faith from a gangly legged colt. Discover the secret to overcoming temptation through a horse's "sneak and eat" game. From a pony with a sweet tooth, find out why we should be glad God doesn’t answer yes to all of our prayers. Be reminded that you are priceless to God from a one-eyed quarter horse named Roanie.

Unbridled Faith is the perfect daily devotional for horse lovers.

"If we wish to be godly encouragers, 
we must not speak until we have truly
listened and prayed."

MrsK's Review:

Fresh truth for an every day renewal. This devotional is a collection of peaceful encounters. Whether you are finding hope, joy, or just a step in the right direction... you will discover a quiet moment that re-energizes your spirit and your outlook.

Beautifully crafted with photos of horses, calming vistas, and truthful connections between ourselves and these loyal animals. Many of you will find a connection that you might have found the first time you read Black Beauty. That profound wisdom that spoke to your spirit will be discovered on a daily basis within these pages.

This is a devotional for those in love with ranches, horses, and our Lord. What I found within was a peace that I must share with a grand-daughter who is emerging into a teen. What is guaranteed is a daily journey that inspires, ignites a walk beyond your stumbling blocks, and wonderment in our Lord's creation.

Such a wonder-filled journey. Please gift this devotional to those who live with horses...
MrsK

Inspiring, joyful, and completely unique!
Every morning and every evening...
Sit and ponder...
Then begin to lift your voice in praise!

For a quick preview click here!

Meet the Author:

    Author Cara Whitney grew up on a cattle farm in Northern Wisconsin. After spending a decade as a radio personality in markets that included Las Vegas, she found herself in search of that simpler life everyone talks about. She soon discovered that there is no such thing as a simple life, but instead your best lived life is one that includes a relationship with Jesus Christ. Cara lives with her husband, Dan, and two kids on a horse farm in Nebraska.

"I received this book from the for this review."

Precious Moments: Little Book of Thanks by Jean Fischer

Jean Fischer

ISBN: 9780718098643

Publisher's Synopsis:

In the sweet, enduring art style of Precious Moments, this timeless book will help your children recognize all the wonderful things God has given them! Read along, and you will remember to enjoy the simple things, like singing silly songs, jumping in a pile of leaves, and watching the seasons change. The short, rhyming verses in this classic Precious Moments book don’t take much time to read at all, and they will create memories that last forever.

Precious Moments Little Book of Thanks offers you the chance to be thankful for all that you have and for the ones with whom you get to share every precious moment.

It happens every autumn. 

As soon as the leaves begin to turn bright, beautiful colors, the year sprints ahead on fast-forward! Take a few moments out of the hustle and bustle of the season

 to sink into a cozy chair with your little one and

 thank God for everything He’s given us with Precious Moments® Little Book of Thanks.

Thank You, God, for Wonderful Sounds:

Knock, knock, Ding-dong.

Tick-tock too!

Rumble, grumble, bump and thud,

Toot, squeak, moo!

Loud sounds, soft sounds, far and near.

Thank You, God, for giving me 

Ears that hear!

poem follows scripture passage: Jeremiah 33:11

MrsK's Review:

Are you one of the Precious Moments collectors? I remember back when my husband and I were dating, oh so long ago, and our local news paper would publish a Precious Moments box (in fact, I still have one of the first ones he cut out for me). As sweet and delightful as ever, this little board book immediately provides an endearing smile, a heartfelt inspiration, and "precious moments" of discussion for every reader and little one.

The seasonal theme provides snapshots of childhood discoveries leading up to Thanksgiving day. All poems and prayers are crafted in a praise format. Giving thanks to our Lord, to those who love us, as well as the special gifts we receive on a daily basis is delightfully crafted with illustrations which portrays the innocence of youth.

May we all have a sprinkling of love and hope on a daily basis,
MrsK

Thank You, God, for laughter:

Jiggle, Wiggle, Giggle!

I'm Thankful, God,

For everything jiggly

And all things wiggly

That make me giggly!

poem follows scripture passage: Job 8:21

A beautiful read aloud for those snuggling moments
of thankfulness... Delightful!

Meet the Author:
  Jean Fischer is a professional writer with a solid background in publishing. While an editor at Golden Books, she oversaw the creative development of activity books and award-winning audio and book products. As a freelance writer, she co-wrote books with Christian authors Thomas Kinkade, John MacArthur, and John C. Maxwell and created devotions for the popular children's series Adventures in Odyssey concepted by Dr. James Dobson.

Jean writes Christian literature for adults as well as children's picture books, board books, nonfiction books and K-6 Language Arts workbooks and textbooks. She also creates promotional material for a leading fast-food restaurant. Her recent books include four preteen novels in the Camp Club Girls series published by Barbour Books and A Charles Dickens Devotional by Thomas Nelson.

Jean holds degrees in elementary education and library science and an advanced certificate in technical communication.

Discover the Samuel J. Butcher Story

Precious Moments

 

God's Blessing Day by Day: Daily Devotional for Kids

Johnny Hunt, editor
ISBN: 9781400311306

Publisher's Synopsis:

One of the greatest gifts - and greatest challenges - of raising children is introducing them to the ways of God. As parents and grandparents, we want to impart our faith to the children we love so dearly, and it can feel more difficult than ever in the fast-moving, instant-access culture in which we find ourselves.

God’s Blessing Day by Day,compiled by Johnny Hunt and more than 50 pastors and church leaders, is the perfect way to build faith through gratitude.

This easy-to-understand, child-friendly devotional is the perfect way to engage your family. Each devotion is written on topics children care about and includes great prayers and takeaways that will spark conversation as the timeless Word of God instructs and inspires your children.

Impart a deeper connection with the Lord in your children, help them establish healthy habits of devotion and prayer, and equip them with the tools they need to grow their faith.

God is my Helper

PS 121:2

"Do you know that God loves to help you?

He's a good Helper to have because He can do anything!..."

(segment from Week10, Wednesday pg.58)

"Dear God, every day I need Your help for many things.

Thank You for helping." (prayer on pg.58)

"My God is big enough to help me with

any problem."

(memory banner on pg.58)

MrsK's Review:

Ok, so when this review package came, this mother... grandmother... teacher... librarian never made it down into my work station. The minute I opened the covers of this devotional, an excited request for the grandchildren went out into the front room. 

These devotionals are not just child friendly, the scripture passages and its teachings are so supportive for moments of discussion and sharing. The illustrations help smaller children look and listen (can you say cute, sweet, and tender).

The format is perfect for any day of the week that you choose to read, which in this reviewer's opinion is perfectly matched for the little one who might just be picking which devotional to read because of an illustration connection. Each devotion gives the author's name and city and state, which speaks volumes to children about the vastness of His faithful.

A must own for all young families and grandparents!

Gift this one... you will be passing on God's word by planting

seeds into our future generations,

MrsK

 "Exceptional!" MrsK

"It's good! It helps you know more about God. The pictures are really cute."

Riley Ella

"I wish I would have waited before I bought a different devotional.

This one makes understanding easier for kids from ages 4-9.

I like that it has a little prayer at the end,
plus a key phrase for them to memorize.
The illustrations just make it extra special!"

Brie (Riley and Gabriel's mom)

Meet the Editor:

God’s Blessing Day by Day is a trustworthy devotional compiled by renowned pastors and church leaders. Edited by Johnny Hunt, former president of the Southern Baptist Convention, this devotional is the perfect way to introduce your children and grandchildren to a legacy of faith.

Tommy Nelson link.

A Prairie Girl's Faith by Stephen W. Hines

Stephen W. Hines

ISBN: 9780735289789

Publisher's Synopsis:

A Prairie Girl's Faith provides the first extended, in depth discussion of the Christian faith of one of America's most beloved pioneer women--Laura Ingalls Wilder. Although the faith of the Ingalls' family pervades books in the Little House series, the more specific details of Laura's faith have never been fully explored. It took extraordinary pluck for anyone to survive the harshness of frontier life--from the heartbreak of sudden crop losses to murderous storms to unrelentling loneliness. This book reveals how in surviving, the brave Laura drew not just on her character, but found encouragement, strength, and hope in her relationship with God.

The beloved author of the Little House books was not only one of America's great pioneer storytellers but a woman of vibrant faith.

MrsK's Review:

Little House on the Prairie, there was no better experience for a young third grader! To enter the school's library doors, to run to the "W" section under the bay window, and then to pull off of the shelf the next Little House book. I could hear my heart beat with joy and anticipation about Laura's next adventure. Even the cover gave me a sense of pure family living in a time of calico, log homes, winter chills, and sunny afternoons fishing by a stream. Could life be any better?

I was so honored to receive this book. It was like taking a promised journey home. Now as an educator/Librarian getting ready for retirement, what more could I learn about "my" Laura? What insights might get I get from Laura's faith that I could replant in a new generation of readers? How could Laura's faith resonate with my readers within my classroom?  All good thoughts!

What I learned, well that might just be easier for you to discover for yourself. What was confirmed, now that is something I can reveal. This book is more than a biography about Laura's faith, you will get a second perspective from her daughter, Rose. As this biography unfolds, Laura's faith is compared with the faith of Rose. I had no idea that Rose helped her mother write some of the books. I did not know that Rose was an accomplished writer. Nor did I know the extent of Laura's writing beyond the endearing series.

Faith. What every pioneer needed for survival. What if church faith was not as reliable as your home-schooled faith? What if you didn't discuss faith... you lived it! 
MrsK

A read that will bring a renewed love for the series!

An irreplaceable depth into a childhood favorite.

Little House On the Prairie Link

Meet the Author:

STEPHEN HINES is a recognized authority on Laura Ingalls Wilder and has authored several best-selling volumes on her life, including Little House in the Ozarks. He grew up in the midwest in an area where Wilder once lived. Hines was the founding Director of Communications for the Tennessee Department of Children's Services and has held several editorial positions in magazine, newspaper, and book publishing. The author is a contributor to a www.littlehouseontheprairie.com. He lives with his wife, Gwen, in Nashville, Tennessee.

"I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review."