Books For Boys- Max Elliot Anderson

I had written an earlier post on a subject that is close to my heart...nourish the love of reading!

How to raise a reader
by Mary VanClay

Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board

"It's never too early to steer your child toward books. But for toddlers, the goal is not to make sure they can read the classics before they're out of preschool. "The phrase to remember is 'developmentally appropriate,'" If interested, read more at

http://ladyd-books.blogspot.com/2009/04/how-to-raise-reader.html

It seems that I'm not the only one interested in helping children become readers. Are you familiar with Max Elliot Anderson? Here is his comment of kind words to me:

"I always appreciate finding others who are concerned about helping children become readers.
That's because I grew up as a reluctant reader. And my father was the author of over 70 books. Now I write action-adventure and mystery books, especially for tween boys. My blog, Books for boys, is # 4 on Google today.
Keep up your good work!"

So, who is Max Anderson? I love the name Max because that's my Uncle's name! So, let's visit the world of Max Elliot Anderson and start with his blog:

http://booksandboys.blogspot.com

Right away Max lets you know what his blog is all about and why you will want to stay awhile and drink fresh inspiration from his writing skills!

"Here we will concentrate on books for boys, reluctant readers, and why reading is so important. After all, readers are the leaders others follow."

I was impressed not only with Max's professional writing skills but now I had read about his blog reaching # 1 on Google when people are searching for Books For Boys.
April 16, 2009 - Eight years ago, children’s author, Max Elliot Anderson, sensed a need in the market for books for boys.
“I noticed a predominance of books for girls or books that had a girl as the main character. My background is in the production of motion pictures for children. Through that experience, I learned that girls would watch a boy’s story, but boys were not interested in girl’s stories. So I used that same template in my writing.”... more at:
http://www.1888pressrelease.com/children-s-author-s-blog-reached-the-top-position-on-google-pr-112709.html

In Jack W. Regan's interview of Max, I learned a little more of the author's background and of his future projects. "I feel better suited for writing action-adventures and mysteries for tweens, especially boys... I find writing for kids to be the most fun, and very easy. So far I’ve never experienced writer’s block." more of the interview with Max:

http://jackwregan.blogspot.com/2009/04/max-elliot-anderson-interview.html

In reading up on the surprise visitor to my blog, I discovered that Max Anderson completed 35 manuscripts. Seven of these are published!

* Newspaper Caper

Newspaper Caper (Tweener Press Adventure Series #1)

* Terror at Wolf Lake

Terror at Wolf Lake (Tweener Press Adventure Series #2)

* North Woods Poachers

North Woods Poachers (Tweener Press Adventure Series, No. 3)
* Mountain Cabin Mystery

Mountain Cabin Mystery (Tweener Press Adventure Series #4)

* Big Rig Rustlers

Big Rig Rustlers (Tweener Press Adventure Series, No. 5)
* Secret of Abbott's Cave

Secret of Abbott's Cave (Tweener Press Adventure Series #6)
* Legend of the White Wolf

Legend of the White Wolf (Tweener Press Adventure Series #7)

Seven is my favorite number! With the looks of this great list of book reading material, I know I plan to invest in all of these paperbacks for my Grandson's future reading!

I am honored and blessed to have received a visit from this wonderful author, Max Elliot Anderson, who shares the same passion with me... getting kids hooked on reading!

Max, thanks for stopping by!

~ LadyD

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Andy Andrews- The Noticer Review

Do you need a new perspective? Did you know that you're right where you're supposed to be? I would like to invite you to a life changing experience... You see, thanks to Thomas Nelson, I read a book from the New York Times Best-Selling Author of The Traveler's Gift, Andy Andrews. Andy Andrews tells about a man simply named Jones and his profound impact on his world around him through active observation. The Noticer is truly a brilliant blend of fiction and a true inspiration. This marvelous book, The Noticer, will bring out the best in you. I give the book 5+ stars, along with everyone's unanimous vote of excellence! Now, let me outline for you this life-changing experience I'm talking about.


* A Grateful Perspective


You see, a view gives us a glimpse of our next destination. Other people's experience is the best teacher. By reading about the lives of great people, you can unlock the secrets of what made them grate. A grateful perspective brings happiness and abundance into a person's life. I could write an entire blog post about my Mother. Angie had the keys to success while living and then battling cancer. She knew that whatever she focused upon increased. So, she chose a thankful and grateful heart all through life ... The Noticer is an uplifting story with an inspirational ending!

* Friendships

Imagine if you were going through tough times like a divorce or let's say you're ready to file bankruptcy. At times like this, you need a good friend. In The Noticer, you'll find that it's easier for people to discuss their problems with people they barely know. Here's where the story begins... Nobody seems to know much about the man who calls himself The Noticer. He shows up when he's needed the most and leaves just as mysteriously as he arrives. He's called Jones, not Mr.Jones. Jones affects everyone who ever meets him in the small Alabama town, reaching into the problem areas of everyone who crosses his path. He's a true friend who holds you to a higher standard. My dear friend Nancy is a nurse who went to Africa to give free medicine to Mother's of hurting children. Everywhere she went, she lifted their weary spirits and gave them hope. The book, The Noticer, will definitely bring out the best in you!

* Are You a Worrier?

You might be saying to yourself, "What will happen if..." The messages Jones brings speaks to that part in all of us, yearning to find answers. You'll be able to stop yourself from spiraling down by defeating those worry thoughts with logic. Worry is focusing on the wrong things. Remember, you can't chase 2 rabbits at the same time! In Andy's book, Jones tells us that the seeds of depression cannot take root in a grateful heart. My Cousin Liz is a breast cancer survivor. Her amazing life has impacted mine with her renewed vision of faith and hope. The gift of being greatly encouraged in these challenging times is what The Noticer is all about. Know anyone who could use a little encouragement today?

* Willow Calloway

My favorite character in the book is Willow. I have heard my mother-in-law say the same thing, "How did I get so old?" Patti is 90 and by far the most influential person in my life, next to my hubby! She doesn't let a number dictate how she feels! In the book, Willow struggles with her purpose since she's outlived so many, including family members. Jones goes on to say that as long as you're still alive, your purpose has not yet been fulfilled. Then the most important part of your life has not yet been lived! and that, my dear Miss Willow, is your proof of HOPE! If you need a lift, an insight, a glimmer of hope, this is the book for you.

* Seeds Planted

My dear husband is the most influential person in my life. He shared his faith in Christ with me and introduced me to the Lord. I am eternally grateful...My husband and I have been playing our musical instruments and doing worship for over 30 years. We have been blessed with 3 beautiful grown up children and 2 spectacular Grandsons! We're avid gardeners together. A successful life has to do with perspective. You see, time and money are a matter of perspective. Ask yourself this question... Do you have a Jones in your life? I know that I do and can say so with confidence! Are you a Jones to anyone else? I certainly hope so. The very fact that you are reading my review is encouraging to me...
Seeds that are planted in your minds and hearts will be sufficient to carry you forward. Then you can plant your own seeds in the minds and hearts of those you touch. The seeds of these dreams are often found in books like The Noticer. You can help plant in your community seeds that can grow across the world. I highly recommend the book, The Noticer. I know that my perspective has been renewed.

From, The Noticer, the new book from New York Times Best-Selling author, Andy Andrews
kjohn on YouTube shares these clips with us:

Why am I the Wayward
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUQ5363YtBA
Why am I the Lover Lost

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyZNZ7Cpfeo
Why am I the Worrier

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMUODIrH-_Q
Why am I the Lustful Youth

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmvarlHJiinM
Why am I the Workaholic

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CgUr3RV7d0
Why am I the Useless

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCyemhEkq2I
Full Length

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCRfVHxldlk

Andy Andrews The Noticer Gaining Perspective

The Noticer by Andy Andrews and gaining perspective in a down market. Shepard Smith interviewed Andy Andrews LIVE in Studio B on 2/9/09 about Andy's new book - The Noticer - to be release at the end of April 2009.

Book Description

A moving story of common wisdom from the bestselling author of The Traveler’s Gift.

Orange Beach, Alabama is a simple town filled with simple people. But they all have their share of problems – marriages teetering on the brink of divorce, young adults giving up on life, business people on the verge of bankruptcy, and many of the other obstacles that life seems to dish out to the masses.

Fortunately, when things look the darkest – a mysterious old man named Jones has a miraculous way of showing up. Communicating what he calls “a little perspective,” Jones explains that he has been given a gift of noticing things that others miss. In his simple interactions, Jones speaks to that part in everyone that is yearning to understand why things happen and what they can do about it.



Based on a remarkable true story, The Noticer beautifully blends fiction, allegory, and inspiration.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hEYWgZZ3uD0

* Purchase Book
The Noticer: Sometimes, all a person needs is a little perspective.

Happy Reading! I appreciate you, so thanks for stopping by!

~ LadyD

Free Kids Book Party April 25 in San Diego

I found this post today and I am a huge Chargers fan. I would love to get a LaDainian Tomlinson T-shirt. More importantly, I am so excited San Diego is having a book party.

Free kids book party set for Saturday
By Amanda Strouse

2:00 a.m. April 23, 2009

BALBOA PARK — Free books for kids.

That's the message of Reading Literacy Learning Inc., a San Diego foundation that will have its 25th Anniversary Children's Book Party on Saturday morning in its ongoing effort at stressing that every child deserves to have a variety of books at home.

Roosevelt Brown is the founder of the a children's book distribution organization that stages the annual book party. He said the primary function of the organization is to encourage home libraries.

“We'd like to get the books in the hands of kids to make sure everyone has books,” said Brown, 66. “I think that reading can open up a spark in your life.”

Thousands of new books, varying in subjects and categorized by age, will be available at this event at Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. The event runs from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

“When a child looks at a book, they normally pick out something they like,” Brown said. “And if they pick out something they like, they'll definitely read it.”

Books are either donated or bought with money donated to the foundation, Brown said.

The party includes entertainment from Spanish dancers and a step dance team. Refreshments will be available.

Brown said he's expecting a few thousand people to show up to the free book giveaway. The first 1,000 parents will also get a LaDainian Tomlinson T-shirt.

Brown said he held the first children's book party in his backyard a quarter century ago.

“Common sense just told me that if all the kids were reading and writing and learning, then they could do better with their life and they could do better in school,” Brown said. “If the kids had beautiful books to read on different subjects, it would broaden their appetite for learning.”

After the success of his backyard book party, he decided to make it more public, so he took it to Balboa Park.

Amanda Strouse is a Union-Tribune intern.
http://www3.signonsandiego.com

-- LadyD

Kids Need to Read Calendar Project

Beautiful photo! I supported the Kids Need To Read Foundation at the Barnes&Noble Book fair that was in my area yesterday. Then I discovered this wonderful project online.

"The Kids Need to Read Foundation" has big plans for 2010. Fortunately, one of our first projects for next year will help you keep track of all the others. Kids Need to Read is organizing a 2010 calendar project as a fundraiser.

To that end, Kids Need to Read contacted a professional photographer, Allen Patrou of Apatrou Photography (Phoenix, Arizona). He is working with us on a volunteer basis to produce one-of-a-kind pictures that feature children reading in natural settings. This may sound like a simple snapshot calendar, but it is far from it. The images that are being created for this wall calendar are truly unique pieces of art featuring the natural beauty of Arizona, real life kids, and books about Kids Need to Read book list... If you’d like to get involved in this project, you can become a sponsor of our calendar by making a donation to Kids Need to Read. Any individual, business or group who donates $300 to KNTR will be featured on a special sponsor page inside the calendar (including logo, if available). To become a KNTR 2010 calendar sponsor, or to inquire about selling the calendars for Kids Need to Read, please write to info@kidsneedtoread.org. Ask us how you can use the calendar as a fundraiser to help your school library!

Kids Need to Read is excited about this project and hopes that you will join us in supporting reading and photographic art with a sponsorship or by purchasing one of these calendars. We plan to sell the calendar nationally in the KNTR eBay store, at independent bookstores, and at several conventions."
http://community.kidsneedtoread.org/?p=932

* Here's the Official Kid's Need To Read List

Children (preschool)

Ferri, Francesca – Peek-A-Boo
Foley, Greg – Thank You Bear
Foley, Greg – Don’t Worry Bear
Katz, Karen – Where is Baby’s Belly Button?
McGhee, Allison – Someday
McGhee, Allison – Little Boy
Portis, Antoinette – Not A Box
Portis, Antoinette – Not A Stick
Seeger, Laura Vaccaro – First the Egg


Children (Ages 5-7)

Bernheimer, Kate & Ceccoli, Nicoletta – The Girl in the Castle Inside the Museum
Dewdney, Anna – Llama Llama Red Pajama
French, Jackie – Diary of a Wombat
Harris, Robie H. – Maybe A Bear Ate It!
Jeffers, Oliver – Lost and Found
Kirk, Daniel – Library Mouse
Levine, Ellen – Henry’s Freedom Box
Morris, Jackie – The Snow Leopard
Muth, Jon – Zen series (2 books)
—– Zen Shorts
—– Zen Ties
Willems, Mo – Elephant and Piggie series (7 books)
—– My Friend is Sad
—– Today I will Fly!
—– I Am Invited to a Party!
—– There Is a Bird on Your Head!
—– I Love My New Toy!
—– I Will Surprise My Friend!
—– Are You Ready to Play Outside?

Middle Readers (Ages 8-12)

Beddor, Frank – The Looking Glass Wars series (2 books) (Ages 10+)
—– The Looking Glass Wars
—– Seeing Redd
Benton, Jim – Dear Dumb Diary series (7 books)
—– Let’s Pretend This Never Happened
—– My Pants are Haunted
—– Am I the Princess or the Frog?
—– Never do Anything, Ever
—– Can Adults Become Human?
—– The Problem with Here is that it’s Where I’m From
—– Never Underestimate Your Dumbness
Benz, Derek & Lewis, J.S. – Grey Griffins series (3 books) (Ages 10+)*
—– The Revenge of the Shadow King
—– The Rise of the Black Wolf
—– The Fall of the Templar
Curtis, Christopher Paul – Elijah of Buxton
Forester, Victoria – The Girl Who Could Fly
Frazier, Sundee T. – Brendan Buckley’s Universe and Everything in It*
Haarsma, PJ – The Softwire series (2 books)*
—– The Softwire: Virus on Orbis 1
—– The Softwire: Betrayal on Orbis 2
Landy, Derek – Skulduggery Pleasant series (2 books)*
—– Skulduggery Pleasant
—– Skulduggery Pleasant: Playing with Fire
Lorey, Dean – Nightmare Academy series (2 books)*
—– Nightmare Academy: Monster Hunters
—– Nightmare Academy: Monster Madness
Resau, Laura – Red Glass (Ages 11+)
Ryan, Pam Munoz – Esperanza Rising
Sanderson, Brandon – Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians*
Selznick, Brian – The Invention of Hugo Cabret
Stewart, Trenton Lee – The Mysterious Benedict Society series (2 books) (Ages 10+)
—– The Mysterious Benedict Society
—– The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey
Various authors – Actionopolis illustrated novel series (7 books)*
—– Beechen, Adam & Hipp, Dan – What I did on my Hypergalactic Interstellar Summer Vacation
—– Hart, J.J. & Meugniot, Will – Zombie Monkey Monster Jamboree
—– Long, Christopher E., & Geiger, Michael – Blackfoot Braves Society: Spirit Totems
—– Mishkin, Dan & Mandrake, Tom – The Forest King: Woodlark’s Shadow
—– Reed, Gary & Hoberg, Rick – Spirit of the Samurai: Of Swords and Rings
—– Worley, Rob M. & Dubisch, Mike – Heir to Fire: Gila Flats
—– Zick, Bruce – The Anubis Tapestry: Between Twilights

Teens (Ages 13+)

Brande, Robin – Evolution, Me and Other Freaks of Nature
Castellucci, Cecil – The Plain Janes (graphic novel)
Clement-Davies, David – Fire Bringer
Davis, Tanita – A la Carte
Ferraro, Tina – Top Ten Uses For an Unworn Prom Dress – by Tina Ferraro
Friesner, Esther – Nobody’s Princess
Friesner, Esther – Nobody’s Prize
Galante, Cecilia – The Patron Saint of Butterflies
Hale, Shannon – Book of a Thousand Days
Kluger, Steve – My Most Excellent Year: A Novel of Love, Mary Poppins & Fenway Park
McKinley, Robin – Dragonhaven
Myers, Walter Dean – Harlem Summer
Owen, James – The Chronicles of the Imaginarium Geographica series (3 books)
—– Here, There be Dragons
—– The Search for the Red Dragon
—– The Indigo King
Shulman, Polly – Enthusiasm

Teens (Ages 17+)

Alexie, Sherman – The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
McMann, Lisa – Wake
Satrapi, Marjane – Persepolis series (2 books)
—– Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood
—– Persepolis 2: The Story of a Return
Tan, Amy – The Joy Luck Club
Wizner, Jake – Spanking Shakespeare
*Great for Reluctant Readers

You can download the list and print in pdf format,
http://www.kidsneedtoread.org/book_list.html



* Michael's Book Bytes
Visit his blog for great programs for kids.
http://community.kidsneedtoread.org/?cat=26

* Kids Need to Read works to encourage a lifelong love of reading in all children.

Visit their site online for inspiring imagination and freedom to learn to read!
http://www..kidsneedtoread.org



From Founder PJ Haarsma:

..."I support Kids Need To Read because it fosters a desire to learn, the process of self-improvement, and the chance for children’s minds to grow. What will you do?"

How To Raise A Reader

I found this great article of encouragement from Babycenter.com called, "How To Raise A Reader." I wanted to share the whole article with you because it has some great points... Nourish A Love For Reading

How To Raise A Reader
by Mary VanClay

Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board

It's never too early to steer your child toward books. But for toddlers, the goal is not to make sure they can read the classics before they're out of preschool. "The phrase to remember is 'developmentally appropriate,'" says Roni Leiderman, associate dean of the Family Center at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. "Parents often come to me wanting to push academics too much, too fast, too soon. In fact, children learn best through play. Make reading a joyous event for them."

There are many developmentally appropriate — and fun — ways to help your little one learn to love books and stories. And, surprisingly, not all of them involve sitting down with an actual book.

*Use books to bond

"It's not about reading the words," says Leiderman. "At this age, it's about learning to love the interaction with Mom, Dad, or a caretaker." When your child sits in your lap as you read aloud, she doesn't just enjoy books, she also enjoys the security of your undivided attention.

* Set up a ritual

A regular reading time establishes the calming routine young children love — that's why the bedtime story is a time-honored tradition. But don't forget that many other daily events also provide good reading opportunities. Once in a while try establishing a new ritual with a breakfast story, a bathtub story, a just-home-from-daycare story. Some toddlers (and older children) who are heavy sleepers are much better able to face the day when their parents "read them awake" rather than hustle them out of bed.

* Choose appropriate books

Toddlers love board books, bathtub books, and pop-up books — any type they can hold easily and manipulate themselves. They love stories accompanied by bright, clear, realistic pictures. And of course, they love rhymes. That's not to say your 2-year-old won't appreciate the stories her big brother chooses — who knows, Rocks and Minerals may end up being her favorite book. Just make sure she has access to simpler books as well.

* Repeat, repeat, repeat

Stifle your yawns if you've read The Very Hungry Caterpillar every night for the past month and your child still asks to hear it again. Repetition is a hallmark of the toddler years. "The reason children love to read the same stories over and over and over again is that they're so thirsty to learn," says Leiderman. You'll soon find that your toddler has memorized her favorite passages and is eager to supply key phrases herself — both signs of increasing reading readiness.

* Ham it up

Lose your inhibitions when you read to your child. Growl like the Papa Bear in Goldilocks, squeak like Piglet in Winnie-the-Pooh. Kids love drama as much as adults do — in fact, your youngster may love to pretend to be the scary wolf in The Three Little Pigs. Encourage her, even if it slows the story's progress. She'll get more out of the story if she's participating actively.

* Follow her interests

Choose books about her favorite activities — visiting the zoo, swimming, playing ball. Back up your kids' favorite videos and TV shows with books about the characters. You may be mystified by the appeal of Teletubbies, but if your child loves the cheery little creatures, she'll love the books about their exploits as well. Follow her lead, but do experiment with a wide variety of books before you decide you know exactly what your child will like. Your little girl who loves dress-up and dolls may, to your surprise, also be the one who asks to hear Godzilla Likes to Roar or Monster Bugs over and over.

* Go to the library

Even babies like library story hours and they're wonderful adventures for toddlers. Your child may well discover a new favorite when it's presented by a beguiling librarian with a soothing voice and perhaps some pictures or puppets to illustrate the action. And, of course, libraries let parents — and kids — try out countless stories without spending a bundle.

* Push play

Many wonderful books exist on cassette or CD. Your toddler may not be interested in them because what she really likes about books is the interaction with you, says pediatrician Laura Jana, a national trainer for Reach Out and Read. But if your toddler does happen to like them, great. She may want to sit with the picture book while she listens to the recording, or you may want to put it on while the two of you do other things. You could also record yourself — or another relative or friend — reading stories. Just remember, says Jana, that recorded stories can't take the place of sitting down together.

* Don't make books a reward

Don't tell your child she can listen to a story if she finishes her dinner. When reading is associated with systems of reward and punishment, it isn't a positive experience. Instead, pick times to read that feel natural, such as when you want your toddler to quiet down before her nap.

* Dealing with the wigglers

Some wiggly youngsters just won't sit still through all of the Blueberries for Sal. What to do? "Sit down and leaf through something short for just 30 seconds, and then say, 'Wow, we read this whole book!' Then let them go," says Leiderman. The next day you can try a little longer session. "Some children will always be more interested in motor activities than in reading," she says. "Respect that, and don't make reading a negative experience." If your toddler is the physically active type, she may respond best to the non-book-related activities described below.

* Make storytelling a part of life

"Promoting reading readiness is more than reading a traditional book," says Leiderman. While you're at the dinner table or in the car, tell stories — standards like "Goldilocks and the Three Bears" anecdotes from your own childhood, or stories that feature your child as a central character. Make books of your child's drawings or favorite photos, and tell stories about them — or ask her to be the narrator.

* Point out words everywhere

Wherever you go, you can show your child that words are an important part of everyday life. Even the youngest toddlers quickly learn, for example, that traffic signs say STOP. Alphabet refrigerator magnets are staples in many homes. Other families label objects around the house, such as the shelves that house BLOCKS, DOLLS, and other toys. If your child is in daycare or preschool, slip a daily note into her lunchbox. Even if she can't yet read CAT, seeing the word printed on a piece of paper, along with a drawing or sticker of a cute kitten, will be a high point in her day and help excite her interest in reading. If this seems too ambitious, try drawing a heart or smiley face with a simple "I love you," which will help get your toddler excited about the meaning behind words.

* Talk

Children from families who converse at the dinner table have larger vocabularies, according to researchers at Harvard University. Talk with your toddler, and don't be afraid to use complex words and phrases. Encourage her questions and explanations. Toddlers are curious and wonder endlessly about the world, so don't be shy about trying to explore her interests with her.

* Demonstrate your own love of books

Your child wants to imitate you. If she sees books all around the house and knows that you like to settle down with one whenever you have a moment to yourself, she'll learn that books are essential to daily life. Modeling your own love of reading is more powerful than making your child sit through a rigid story time.

* Books for you

Numerous books have been written for parents who want to nourish a love of reading. Try Jim Trelease's The Read-Aloud Handbook, E.D. Hirsch's Books to Build On, Elizabeth Wilson's Books Children Love, and Bernice Cullinan's Read to Me: Raising Kids Who Love to Read.
http://www.babycenter.com/0_how-to-raise-a-reader_11545.bc

-- LadyD

Review- In the Footsteps of Paul

I received the book, In the Footsteps of Paul by Ken Duncan from Thomas Nelson. I am so appreciative to have read this great book of treasures during Holy Week. Thank you, Thomas Nelson! The photography work of Ken Duncan is breath-taking. Being Greek and having family in Greece, this book captured my heart with superb photos of Thessalonica, Parthenon on the Acropolis, Saint Paul's Church in Crete and the Temple of Artemis, Ephesus.
Ken's eye for beauty had me from the start. He opens with a stunning sunrise photo. I have taken many sunrise photos myself from Maui to Punta Chivata, Mexico. It is thrilling to rise early in the morning hours just to capture that moment. Ken's shots are professionally displayed in the book. While glancing at photos of Israel, Greece, Italy and Turkey, being the true fishing woman that I am, you can feel the ocean breeze blow through your hair and smell the salt in the air! Ken's intro with the Icon painting of a Portrait of an apostle is a reminder of my background being raised Greek
Orthodox. Here's an example of Ken's work:


For more examples of his wonderful work, visit

http://www.kenduncan.com/gallery.php

Here's a little background on Ken Duncan.


"Ken Duncan (born 20 December 1954) is a photographer from the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia. He is regarded as one of Australia's most acclaimed landscape photographers, and gained prominence for his pioneering work with panoramic landscapes and limited edition photographic prints."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ken_Duncan
I've talked on and on regarding Ken's stunning photographs from the book, In the Footsteps of Paul. If you would like to see his gallery for yourself, please visit
http://www.kenduncan.com

This gorgeous, hardcover book starts with a Forward by John MacArthur, the Pastor of Grace Community Church..."But no one was more committed to the truth of the gospel or more devoted to Christ than Paul. His ministry literally cost him everything, and he happily gave it all."
http://www.gty.org

Mixed throughout the book, you will find quotes from special people such as Spurgeon and Richard Exley. One of my favorite quotes is from Rick Warren, pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California. He is the author of The Purpose Driven Life.
http://www.rickwarren.com

"Great souls are grown through struggles and storms and seasons of suffering. Be patient with the process."

And another good one can be found on page 37 from Richard Exley...

"Never make the mistake of belittling the eternal value of the ministry you invest in another."

To sum it up, the book In the Footsteps of Paul is:

* An inspiring book
* A beautiful photography book
* The book showcases visited places from Paul's travels
* Amazing photography, travel book

Not only is the photo of wild poppies etched in my mind forever, but I now have a greater understanding of Paul. From Philip Yancey, "... Paul never recovered from the impact of grace." So, the challenge for us now is... what are we going to do with the example of Paul's walk?

In the Footsteps of Paul 5/5 stars!

Amazon.com:New Releases In Books For Baby-Age 3

Amazon.com: New Releases In Books For Baby-Age 3

* Caillou ABC Train (Puzzle Book) (Board book)

I would love to get this book for my grandson who loves trains and puzzles. Looks like a double winner for me!

Product Description

Caillou is the conductor of the ABC Train, a wonderful jigsaw train that chugs through the world of letters. On his train ride, Caillou employs the help of family, friends, and animals of every kind to help him learn his alphabet. Children can play with the puzzle pieces by placing them on corresponding images, and arrange the letters in order to make a train or simply enjoy the wonderful story and full-color illustrations.

About the Author

Chouette Publishing is the publisher of the Caillou series of books based on the Caillou television series. They are located in Montreal, Quebec. Eric Sevigny is a graphic artist and the illustrator of Caillou Happy Holidays, Caillou: New Shoes, and Caillou: The School Bus. He lives in Montreal.

This delightful Board Book of 18 pages is for reading level 4-8
Caillou ABC Train (Puzzle Book)

* Caillou: My Room (Caillou Board Books)
This is another one that looks very interesting to read for around $7.95



* Caillou: My Book of Great Adventures (Treasury Collection)

I'm impressed with the beautiful primary colors Eric Sevigny uses in all his books.




-- LadyD