iShine Bible

First of all, what is a tween? I have seen this word used in the media, at our library, and in advertising. I found the following definition online: "A child between middle childhood and adolesence, usually between 8 and 12 years old". It is a combination of the two words teen and between. So by this definition, I am the parent of a tween. So I was very excited to receive a copy of this New Living Translation iShine Bible to review.

Here's what I love about this Bible:

*The compact size. It could easily fit in my son's cargo pants pocket!
*The new translation. Our teaching minister just switched to this translation, so now my son has his own copy.
*There are 3 sections for deeper study which include VALUE, IDENTITY, & PURPOSE (making the reader a VIP in God's eyes)


Here's what my ten year old liked about the Bible:

*Cool graphics & pictures
*A Bible just for tweens like me!
*"I can't wait to take this to my Sunday School class!"

I though I would include my son's favorite verse in the new translation. "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16 NLT

Max On Life

Lots of people have questions. I live with a ten year and two (almost) six year olds. They ask me lots of questions! My friends at work all have questions. My neighbors have lots of questions. People have questions and are desperately looking for answers.

Max Lucado has been in ministry for many years and has over 100 million products in print! He has received thousands of questions from people all over the world. This book is kind of like a "what would Max do?" when faced with a question, doubt, situation, or even a certain life event. I've often wondered if I am responding the right way to something, and this book is a good place to find the answer.

Max answers 172 questions in his new book. Each answer feels like a personal conversation with the author. Each answer is based on scripture when applicable. Each answer is simple and straight forward. No beating around the bush for Max!! There is also a topical index at the back of the book to easily find the answer you are searching for. Whether you've been a Christian for 2 days, 2 years, or 2 decades, this book will be of great value to you! You will not be disappointed.

Max is also scheduled to speak at the 2011 MOPS convention. How exciting!! These MOPS mommas will be blessed to hear this great man speak!

Imagination Station Review

I chose to review this book because I knew my nine year old son would enjoy reading this. We decided to read it together. It is a great adventure story with a little bit of history tucked in. My son, who has a pretty good imagination, enjoyed this story. The story is pretty gender neutral so I think both boys and girls would enjoy this book alike!

Life, In Spite of Me

I am so excited to share a review of this book. After reading this, you will be inspired. I love the author's brutal honesty about life and choices. Kristen is amazing young woman and an inspiration to many. She has included a letter to anyone contemplating suicide in each chapter of the book. I have worked with teens in our church youth group for years and would recommend this book to be required reading for anyone working with teens. Suicide is often swept under the rug in teen circles today, and this book helps bring to light the struggles and depression that many teens face and have no idea how to start dealing with their issues.

Writing a book like this takes strength and courage, and I am thankful Kristen has been courageous enough to share her story with the world! You will be blessed and inspired (just like I was) after finishing this book.