How I Chose a Great Children's Book for Story Time

I read more than 50 books last month! Impressive, huh? Well, you won’t think so once you hear most of them were children’s books.

There was a reason for my reading so many titles: I was asked to do Story Time for a group of preschoolers and was searching for a book they'd enjoy. I actually wanted to read more titles, but with only days left before the scheduled event I forced myself to stop and make a choice. “Duck and Goose” ended up the winner. Runner up was “It’s (Not) Mine,” another fun read. 

Enjoyed reading to this attentive group. All attend Community Christian Academy, Hemet, CA

Now that Story Time is past it seems a shame to not pass along my findings. If you are like me, I lean on book recommendations from others. With so many titles out there it’s wonderful to have others steer you towards a good read. So, with that in mind, here are a few titles which merit recommending from my recent hours of research and reading, plus a few of my all-time-favorites for beginner readers.

What is my criteria?

For anyone interested, the criteria I keep in mind when evaluating a children’s picture book is noted below: (Not interested? Just skip this section and go right to the book listings.)  

• Story: Does the book keep child’s interest, entertain or teach a lesson? Is it too wordy or long for little ones who have a short attention span? Is it an exceptional story and truly original, or is it predictable and boring?
• Writing: Did the author use correct grammar and words familiar to intended age level of audience? Are concepts easy to grasp/understand for age of reader?                                   
• Visual appeal. Does the art assist in telling the story or does it distract? Is the type easy to read? Too small? Placed wrong on page?  

Enough criteria. Let’s get to the books.

Duck and Goose by Tim Hills. This book succeeds in every way. Colorful. Not too much copy. Fun story with a teaching element about sharing, but a few words are too advanced for pre-schoolers. The "frog who burps" offers a bit of humor making up for the book's one weakness. Yep, both parents and kids will go for this title. Note: Best to read this title first, which introduce the characters, before going on to 11 others in series. 40 pages.

Duck and Goose Find a Pumpkin, also by Tim Hills. Very few words in this simple story. Suggest you read it to your child prior to heading to the pumpkin patch this October. Ideal for children, age 2-3, or any beginner readers. Graphics are rich and colorful. This is a 22-page, large, board book. 

That’s (Not) Mine by Anna Kang. A big shout out to the book’s designer who knows the value of white space, proper size type, and drawing characters with expressions that tie in perfectly with copy. A terrific book for a parent trying to help their child learn to share. 

You Are (Not) Small also by Kang is equally good. Comical and interesting way to teach children how to see themselves correctly. This 32-page book is the winner of the 2015 Theodore Seuss Geisel Award. 

Let’s Go For a Drive by Mo Willems. Take one elephant and a pig and what have you got? An adorable series. This one starts with one great idea that requires a wonderful friend and teamwork. Length: 64 pages. Ideal for a young reader. (Note: Anytime you see a Theodore Seuss Geisel Award sticker on the cover of a book take notice. Those books rarely disappoint.) 

How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin? by Margaret McNamarra. One of my favorite titles I read to classes who visited the library each October. Book is loaded with oodles of information. Got good participation from students when I brought in a pumpkin and asked everyone to guess how many seeds were in it . . . and later disclosed actual seed count. Author wins my vote for how she incorporated math and science while telling a good story. 40 pages.

10 Little RubberDucks by Eric Carle. I'm a fan of this artist/author who wows kids with his unique style. In this title children are taught their basic numbers (1-10) via a story about a box of yellow ducks which topple off a ship. As they drift and separate from each other, one little plastic duck ends up part of a “real” family of ducks. Like the surprise ending.

The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt. I can see why this book is a bestseller and award winner. It is charming, funny, and imaginative -- due mostly to the clever writing found in letters penned by various crayon colors to their owner, Duncan. Parents will enjoy this title as much as kids. Best suited for children, age 5 and up. Length: 40 pages.

Books for young readers

In a future post I will give you more recommendations for young readers. But for today, here are two books by an author who is on my favorites list.

Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride by Kate DiCamillo. Love this 6-book series about a winsome pig. The short chapters and artwork appeal to kids and adults. 80 pages.

Leroy Ninker Saddles Up by Kate DiCamillo. This is the first title in a new series she has developed called:Tales from Deckawoo Drive, 96 pages. Illustrations are super. 

Now it's time for me to get back to my normal reading material: wholesome novels, a couple biographies, and quite a few non fiction works. 

Late last night I started "Life Lessons from the Hiding Place" by Pam Moore. It's a captivating read and I've barely begun. But then, I cherish learning about this remarkable woman called Corrie ten Boom. Though no longer alive God still uses her life and words in profound ways. 

Enjoyed telling you about my world. Thanks for giving up your precious time to read my words. 


Julie
P.S. If you were asked to read at Story Time what book would you choose? I return to those preschoolers in November so suggestions are wanted. So too are people to "subscribe" to my blog at top of page. Hint. Hint. 

How to Make Apple Cider the Old Fashioned Way

Lake Winnipeasukee region in NH is where this red barn still stands. 

There’s a big red barn in New Hampshire that I reminisce about each fall. The large structure sits on a lovely plot of land with a huge garden area and apple orchard out back. Whenever those trees produce a stellar crop the owners send out an alert to friends: “It’s time to make apple cider!”

I happened to be visiting my close friend, Wini, who lives in the picturesque Lake Winnipesaukee region, when I learned of her invite to come join in the fun. Guess who got to tag along?  

The family who live in this house love to share and bless others. 

The weather was crisp and chilly that October day so we bundled up in jackets, slipped on rain boots, added stuffed mittens in our pockets, made sure we took a camera before we zoomed down the road. A few minutes later we pulled into the driveway of a lovely two-story house whose porch was all spruced up with fall décor: pumpkins, corn stalks, gourds, and more. Out back stood the big red barn.

In a matter of minutes they go from apples, to mush, to apple cider! 

I mingled awhile with others until crates of vibrant colored, handpicked apples caught my attention. Out came the camera. Next, I noticed a large contraption which I gathered was a very old cider press. Standing nearby were a few college-age students dressed in their finest: grungy t-shirts, jeans, shoes and baseball caps. Apparently cider making is very messy so clothing destined for the trash bin is preferred. (Must keep that in mind for my next trip east.) 

Toss 'er in and press 'er down. Then watch out for flying apples.

A short time later someone switched on the press and from then on it was non-stop-action. The students tossed apples into the top of the machine to be ground up and pushed down into screened boxes below. Now and then an apple would fly back out the top and occasionally a guy or gal would not duck in time and get clobbered. Ouch! 

She may be old, but this cider press works perfect.

While some tossed apples, two guys closely monitored the machine. It was their job to constantly empty out and then replace the screens full of apple “mush” once the juice was extracted by the press. Gravity forced the juice to flow downward onto a tray and then via a spout to a waiting empty container. Once full the jug, or make-shift recipticle, quickly got switched out and just as quickly an empty one appeared. 

Having no desire to get creamed by a dislodged apple or slip in mush, I opted to take photos that day. Other guests watched from inside the barn while enjoying sips of cider and tasty snacks. 

Here's to our friendship of 45 years and the season called Fall!

At the end of the day the crop produced over 20 gallons of cider! Each of us was given a free gallon to take home. Unfortunately, I had to decline as I knew TSA would confiscate the jug at the airport. They had done it before when on a previous return flight from NH a security person stole took my store bought, unopened and sealed tight, large jar of pumpkin butter. The stinker.

Thankfully, no one can steal my red barn memory. Not even the TSA.

Happy October everyone. Now go have some cider or buy a pumpkin!

Julie

P.S. Have a favorite fall memory or tale involving the TSA? Oh, do share, please!

What's better than a slice of apple pie from The Julian Pie Company?

You can tell it’s fall when apples and pumpkins take over the produce section at grocery stores. Or, your cravings switch from dark chocolate to pies and other tempting sweets. For me, it’s homemade hot apple pie topped with a huge helping of vanilla ice cream. A close second is pumpkin butter which takes toast to a new level.

Thinking about these scrumptious foods makes me recall two memorable times with friends.

My first memory took place in apple country: Julian, CA. This small mountain town lies about 60 miles outside of San Diego and is known for its orchards and homemade apple pies! Yum. Yum. These days Julian is a tourist destination for city dwellers who long for those wide open spaces and a slice of pie. That includes me and two good friends, Debby and Linda.

Our trek there last fall was a belated birthday outing for Debby. As a way to make her day unforgettable we gave her a large gift bag full of wrapped items with this one directive: “You are to open two presents every half hour!”

Giddy, Debby took the bag and to her delight pulled out two packages which when unwrapped brought on a smile and a "Whoo hoo!" The gifts? Bag of black licorice (her favorite candy) and a scented candle.

While we made our way along the curvy back roads laughter filled the car from the telling of stories from our childhoods. But every 30 minutes the talking stopped, Debby opened two more presents, and then the chatting resumed.

Her gifts were a menagerie of items we knew Debby either liked or could use: a red-gel pen (She’s an editor and this is a must have.), notepad, hair clip, book, chap stick, green tea, business card holder, bookmark, DVD, incense, peanut clusters, coin purse, gift card and more!

  

Once we arrived in Julian we walked main street where we perused a bookstore, looked in a few specialty shops, lunched at what once was the vintage corner drugstore, and went on a search to find the local jail (no longer in use). Last stop was The Julian Pie Company to buy two whole pies to share and devour with others back home.

I wonder who got the final piece of the apple/rhubard pie at Debby's house

Curious to know how Debby viewed last year's birthday adventure I asked her "What was your favorite part about the Julian outing?" She was quick with her answer: “It was the drive up there with the fun presents and conversation. But I also loved our lunch time—the food and the company. I love simple, day outings.”

Simple.  Day.  Outings.

Did you notice she did not mention "pie"? No, what she cherished was being with friends, and laughter, and a few hours on the road viewing God's creation. 

I'm convicted by her words, as I too often let tasks take precedence over being with others. It's time I plan another relaxing getaway. Perhaps to nearby Oak Glen, well known for its apple dumplings and scenic drive. I'm pretty sure Debby will want to go. 

My second memory took place at a big, red barn in New Hampshire a few years ago. It too involves apples. I'll tell you all about this special event in my next blog which I promise will be soon. 

Hope you'll come back!

Julie

  

A Question for Mel Gibson, producer of "The Passion of the Christ"

Someday I’d like to ask Mel Gibson a question. It pertains to two scenes in the movie, “The Passion of the Christ,” which seem to have a connection.

Almost every Good Friday, since the film’s release in 2004, I have viewed the movie. And every time when I get to a particular scene my eyes are riveted on one person and an action that is hard to overlook.

Here’s the scene: It is near the end of the film, Jesus is about to get spikes hammered into his wrists and feet, securing him to two wooden beams. As the camera pans the crowd it stops at two women who have lowered themselves to the ground, intently looking at Jesus. The film's cinematographer then focuses on the tear-stained face of Mary, his mother, and her hands which have grabbed fistfuls of dirt and stone. As the camera zooms in, her anguish and piercing pain are almost palpable. When the cross is lifted up with her son attached, she raises to her feet, still clenching the rocks. And there, while standing, with her eyes on Jesus, slowly her fingers move, releasing a flow of dirt and stones back to the ground.

It’s then I recall an earlier scene from the movie: this one is of Mary Magdalene, the one caught in adultery, who is about to be stoned by her accusers. They have brought her to the temple in an effort to entrap Jesus with his own words. As she lies on the ground the camera follows her stretched out arm and hand as she cautiously moves her fingers along the dirt toward Jesus' feet. If I recall right, all this is done in silence until Jesus says these words directed to the prideful Pharisees: “He who is without sin . . . cast the first stone.”

Two different scenes, but with one common denominator: stones. For the Pharisees the stones were weapons used to humiliate and destroy a life, unlike God's mercy, which forgives and restores. For Mary, Jesus' mother, the stones defused her pain as each blow of the hammer struck her son. Or, perhaps reveal her own struggle with vengeance and forgiveness. And for Mary Magdalene, the stones that were meant to kill, brought her Jesus and life. 

Both scenes get to me emotionally and trigger tears as I recognize I am at times like all three of them: full of pride and quick to accuse like the Pharisee; desperate for mercy and restoration like Mary Magdalene; and like Mary, consumed with pain and anger, plus toying with vengeance, choose instead to forgive. 

I realize these scenes are secondary to the more important story – that of Jesus, the Son of God, and His death on a cross. Never do I want to minimize His love and perfect blood sacrifice which paid the debt required for my and everyone's sin. I simply wanted to tell you how this movie impacts me every Easter and encourage you to watch it sometime this weekend. 

But it’s also true I want to ask Mel Gibson a question. I may never have the opportunity but if by chance he reads this post here it is: Was it your intent to connect these scenes by using dirt and rocks to artistically convey, without using a single word, the power of forgiveness?

If it is, you succeeded. 


P.S. If you could ask Mel Gibson a question what would it be? Just curious.

Audio Books -- My Practical Tips and Titles Worth Recommending

Audio books and I have spent a lot of time together in recent weeks. As a consequence I have gained an appreciation for this format, and for those artistic men and women with voices that make a book exceptional.

It took listening to a variety of audio books before it became apparent what made certain ones better than others. Thought you might like to know what I learned, and also hear my take on titles which made my recommended list, plus those that did not for an assortment of reasons.

Four Practical Tips on Audio Books

I wish I had known these tips when first starting with audio books as they save time and money. Pretty sure if/when you try an audio book, or buy one as a gift, these guidelines will prove valuable.

• The voice! Pay attention to the short bio, usually provided on back jacket, of the man or woman whose voice is used on an audio book. You want someone with more than decent reading skills. If his/her credentials mention drama or acting experience that’s a good indicator you’ll enjoy the audio. Once you have listened to a skillful reader—one who makes the story and characters come alive—it’s hard to accept anything of less quality. So make sure your reader is top notch.

• Screening for content. Unlike movies which have a rating system, there is none for audio books. Only until you listen do you know if it contains objectionable matter. At least with a hand-held book you can flip through the pages and do a spot check for these issues. Sad to say, I did not get beyond chapter one with a number of the audio books I checked out due to these precise reasons. Discovered yesterday on Amazon the option to listen to a “sample” of an audio book. That gave me an idea of the reader, but only a tiny taste of the story. Still, that did help.

• Availability. Did you know you can download audio books for free? I’m fortunate to have a county library which provides this service. There are also places online that make the classics and other genre available for free in audio format. Or you can sign up with places like Audible and for a flat fee per month download audio books. Often there is a 30-day free trial with subscribing.

• Bargains. Amazon and Barnes & Noble carry audio books and quite often online you can get them at a reduced price, and sometimes free. One of my best audio book finds was at the “Friends of the Library” store at my local library which sells used audio books; spent $2 for the audio version of The Broker by John Grisham which was in superb condition.   

Now, My Reviews:

State of Wonder by Ann Patchett – A story that took me to far-away places, with a plot line that involved science, eccentric characters, far-fetched events, and an ending that seemed odd. Still, I liked it, perhaps because the reader was better than average. (Warning: Occasional inappropriate language; morals issues.)

The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester-- Fascinating true story and mystery behind the formation of The Oxford Dictionary. The English accent by reader certainly fit the historical fiction with it's London and nearby locations. Though not able to complete the book before the library load deadline I do intend to check it out again, or perhaps even purchase the audio version. 

Still Alice by Lisa Genova –Liked this book from beginning to end. The author/reader did a nice job and impressed me by how she wove scientific data about Alzheimer’s into the story. Closed the book feeling I better understand this illness and how it impacts a family. (Warning: foul language)

Killing Patton: The Strange Death of World War II’s Most Audacious General by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard – This book may be very good, but I didn’t get past the second chapter due to the reader’s voice (Bill O’Reilly) and his lack of dramatic reading skills. I’d avoid the audio book and buy the book.

The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin – Anyone with a background in bookstores or publishing would find this fiction piece a good read. Story jumps around a bit, includes a few surprises, and is full of book recommendations which I found delightful and useful. Just wish it omitted its use of inappropriate language and a few sexual references which were not necessary. 

Believing God by Beth Moore – Content is good and definitely like the reader’s voice and clarity, along with Beth’s friendly way of presenting her subject. But found one annoying problem: the frequent references of Scripture passages. Understand why Beth includes them, but for an audio book they disrupt the flow of thought--sort of like how hiccups break up a conversation. Did not finish audio book for this single reason.

An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris –If you speak French you are apt to like this story which takes place in Paris and is based on a true event from 1895. I’m only on chapter six but so far finding the story fascinating. Reader’s voice and ease with pronunciation of French names, streets, cities and more is well suited for this audio. (Warning: moral issues.)   



(Note: If you click on the book cover it will take you to Amazon should you want to know more about content, author and price.)

On my nightstand

These three audio books are on my nightstand waiting to be listened to: Rosie (Story about an 86 year old widow who wants to live a little!); The Little Guide to Your Well-Read Life (A short book to help you get more books in your life and more life from your books.); Stones of Jerusalem ("A tale of unselfish love, enduring faith, and God's transforming power" according to promo copy found on its back cover.

Now you know how I'll be spending my evenings in the coming weeks. If any of them deserve a 5-star review I'll let you know.


P.S. Have any books on your nightstand that's keeping you up late reading? If so, please jot a comment below!   

How Modern Mrs. Darcy and Audio Books Saved My Day

How Modern Mrs. Darcy and Audio Books Saved My Day

Pain has a way of altering our lives. Four months ago eye pain forced me to stop reading and wear sunglasses indoors. 

Turns out the cause is chronic Dry Eye Syndrome which my ophthalmologist informs me is “Not life threatening, nor does it have a cure, and in most cases prescription eye drops alleviate the pain, light sensitivity, and irritation.”

Unfortunately, I’m not one of those “in most cases.” My eyes still hurt. As a result books have remained closed and time at the computer cut way back. (Now you know why no posts have appeared here since January.)

Not one to give up so easily I started looking for ways that would allow me to keep enjoying books. Surely there’s a solution that will enable me to continue being an avid reader and blogger.

The Reading Solution

I tried a variety of possibilities: reading with sunglasses, enlarging the type on my Nook, reducing my laptops brightness level plus buying an anti-glare screen, and looking into acquiring glasses with prisms. None solved my problem.

Then one day I recalled a post I read awhile back at one of my favorite blogs www.modernmrsdarcy.com. There was my answer! I’ll listen to books. Ta da. Problem solved. Or so I thought.

Lucky for me, my local library is nearby and houses a modest collection of audio books. I checked out a few titles and later that evening slipped in a CD. Leaning back in my easy chair I got comfortable and began listening . . . but awhile later realized I had dozed off. Um, either I’m tired or this book is boring.

I try another title and get the same results. This is not good. I’m down to my final option, the bestseller State of Wonder. Oh, please, please, please be good.

Chapter 1 starts and the first thing I notice is that the reader’s voice is pleasant and versatile; she gives each character his own voice/inflection. Oh, I like that. The story transports me to the Amazon jungle and keeps me intrigued . . . three hours later I am still awake!

Two days later I finish it, thrilled that I have a viable solution and books can still be a part of my world. I’m happy. 

The Writing Solution

How I solved the dilemma of writing this blog came while at my writer's group where I spotted John speaking into his phone. Curious, I asked him if I could do the same thing with my computer. "Absolutely." Yay! I can keep writing my blog and be among the 5% of bloggers who start one and actually keep at it.

That same day I tested out the idea. It worked, but the process was laboring. I had to speak slowly and distinctly for the computer to learn my voice, but still there were errors. Growing frustrated I resorted to typing with my eyes closed instead! Actually, it was rather relaxing and gave me quick results as I type fast: 90-words-per-minute with few errors. Editing, not so much. That task calls for eyes wide open, and only for short periods of time to avoid aggravating my vision. But as you can see the blog eventually got done.

Lessons Along the Way

While I do not like pain, I do like a good challenge. Dry eye syndrome has certainly provided that. So has my self imposed crash course in audio books.

I’ll tell you more about that in my next post, plus give you a list of audio books I like/dislike. Currently I'm listening to An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris--a story based on a true event in France, 1875. Sure hope it keeps me awake! 

P.S. Could use some book recommendations. Have you read anything lately that rates five stars? It does not have to be an audio book.

A 2015 New Year's Debate Winner!

I had a debate with myself this morning. Should I post this article today, or file it away for January 1, 2016? One side of me said, "No, save it for another day. We're already two weeks into the new year." The other side said, "Post it! After all, if popular blogger Holley Gerth can write about her special word for 2015 on January 14th, so can you."

And the debate goes to . . . Phooey on perfectionism, hurrah for delayed posts!

First, a short disclaimer: I wrote my piece over a week ago as a writer's group assignment and do not know Holly. This morning I was totally surprised, and delighted, to find we had penned something similar. She doesn't disclose how she came about her idea for choosing a word. Mine resulted from watching an eleven-minute video, “Discover God’s Theme for You in 2015," presented by bestselling author John Eldredge and ministry partner, Craig McConnell at www.RansomedHeart.com.

In summary, the two men discuss the practice of asking God for what He has for us in the year ahead. Hearing their individual experiences lent credence to this practice and sounded familiar. Each year I select a word and then read Scripture making note of every place it appears. One year I chose “favor.” Last year, “prayer”.  But they were my choices, not God’s, and done for a different purpose. This year I am going with John and Craig’s idea.   

This is not a mystical experiment. It is simply a desire to pay closer attention to God and what He intends for me. None of us knows what will transpire in 2015, but God does. I do know I want my heart and mind to be in sync with His. 

Here’s what I’ve learned in the initial days of this practice: Don’t expect God to tell you immediately what that word or phrase is. Most likely, that’s not gonna happen. Instead, set aside all your expectations other than the promise that He will inform you at some point. Until He does, simply go about your life, keeping alert to His voice. You will know. There won’t be any doubt or question when He reveals His theme for you. May take a few days, or a few months.  Maybe even longer. Leave the timing to Him.

For me, my word emerged while I read Scripture. It's a six-letter-word that starts with an L . . . Listen! As I pondered it there was no resistance on my part to embrace it. I welcomed it, ready to see God’s theme unfold. 

Pretty sure twelve months from now a remarkable story about God and that word will be revealed. No doubt all sorts of twists and turns, conflict, laughter, challenges, moments of boredom, tragedy, triumphs, and probably a surprise ending will comprise the story. 

Meanwhile, I am making short entries in a journal about any significant lessons, insights, events, or scriptures from each day. Already today I found a gem towards the end of Holley's blog, www.holleygerth.com -- "The desire to listen pleases Him (God) and He'll answer in His perfect timing." 

Why don't you join me, John and Craig, Holley and her husband, and many others by asking God what word He has for you in 2015? Aren't you curious to know what He's chosen?  

When you find out, do let me know!