Reviewer: Michelle Dennis Evans

This is a sweet story about 14-year-old Bethany who is in a terrible car accident killing both her parents. With a severely broken leg, Bethany is unable to dance. At times the characters seemed older than 14 and some of the conversations didn’t ring true to a teenager – this could be because they were rich ballerinas and possibly more mature than the average teen. Great book for teens to see through Bethany’s eyes, what it might be like to lose everything valuable to you. Her grief journey shows the wide range of highs and lows that are very real when someone close to you dies.

Reviewer: Valerie Jackson

This book is focused on the many problems that could beset a marriage (all starting with the letter "C") and could be considered a series of short essays on each problem. Considering the number of C's, the author wisely kept most of them to the point. The number of topics is comprehensive, but his treatment of them isn't, which makes for an easier read. As such, it should probably be considered a resource, with the reader turning to and bookmarking the areas they'd like information on, rather than reading the book straight through.

The author frequently speaks man to man, as well as to couples, which is a nice change from many similar books. He covers everything from practical issues like Cleanliness and Consummation, to spiritual issues like Christ-likeness. There are also some really nice turns of phrase here and there. "Chivalry is the knack of putting your spouse on a pedestal and defending his or her right to be there before the world," is a favorite.

It would be nice if had more scripture citations, even if only into footnotes. I recognized when he was quoting scripture instead of simply giving his opinion, but not everyone will. Plus, sometimes I like to look them up if I'm not familiar with them.

Overall, this is a good resource to help those who can't quite pinpoint what might be going on with the marriage. And who'd like to know what they're getting right.

Reviewer: Mary Hemlow

Anyone who has ever been responsible for a teen will appreciate the scenario in this novella. A missionary father who has been forced to return from the field in Kenya because of his errant daughter, makes an attempt to reconnect with her through their mutual enjoyment of fly fishing. It's difficult not to admire the father's patience and tenacity in the face of his daughter's disrespect. The comparison between his thoughts about what he wants to say to his daughter and what he actually does say adds a richness to his character. A smoothly depicted account, it was difficult to put down due to my curiosity as to whether the relationship would be restored. A well told story of sacrificial love, would recommend to readers in relationship with teens or to anyone who has felt unloved.

Reviewer: Mary Hemlow

Pearls for the Bride by Laura Thomas is a book that is important for today because marriage is under attack in our culture, but is foundational for Christian family values. The cover immediately draws you in and the bridal theme is obvious. While this book is well-researched, I struggled with quotes from popular Hollywood personalities, Doris Day, the author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and others. I would have preferred the authority for Thomas' assertions to have been the bible or recognized Christian authorities on topics like conflict resolution, acceptance of our circumstances, family values etc.  It was well researched and citations were given, I just didn't approve of the sources. However, it was well done and while I would have liked more biblical principles illuminated I would still recommend this to a bride-to-be.

Reviewer: Margaret Welwood

My ten-year-old granddaughter and I found this story very engaging; her interest peaked when Butch needed help.
 
The action and suspense drew me in from the beginning. Ten-year-old Benjamin is both likeable and believable, and we can readily empathize with his wants, fears and compassion. The setting, too, is vivid; cold and poverty play a major role in building our empathy with both boy and dog.
 
The adults in the story are quick to point out the lesson—“what the Good Book says about taming the tongue”—but there is so much more here. Perseverance in the face of discomfort and danger, compassion when it’s easier to look the other way, generosity, secret wishes that are best unfulfilled, courage and unexpected friendship, as well as a delightful Christmas surprise all play a part in this beautiful story. Best of all, the Light of the World shines in the streets and alleys of Old England through the prayer, faith and kindness of one little boy and his family.

Reviewer: Cierra Loften

This less than 15 page children's book was a very quick read, though delightful, nonetheless. It covers the basic principles of living a life for God in a way that is very clear, fun, and easy to understand for children. Even though I am in my twenties, I couldn't help but be uplifted by this lovely book. While there is nothing particular that stands out about 'Jesus Loves Me When I Dance,' if you're looking for a sweet, to the point book to read to your children about the love God has for them, pick this one up! Overall, I would give this book a 4 Star rating. The cover is cute and inviting, the main character centers around the author's granddaughter (so cute!) and the style is very quick to follow and devour in no time. This is a Christ-centered novel that can easily be read over and over again! 

Reviewer: Laura J. Davis

When I saw the cover of this book I thought, "What a cutie!" When I saw the title however, I was overjoyed because I have three little "great-nieces" who are dancers and would probably love this book. I contacted the author, Glynis Belec and asked her who the little cutie on the front cover was and she informed me it was her granddaughter who did an impromptu photo-shoot with her mom on the way home from ballet class one day. When the author saw them, she immediately knew she had to write a story around them and this book is the result.

This delightful little rhyming book reinforces in its young readers that Jesus loves them in all stages of their development. He loves them when they are dancing and when they are playing and enforces the truth that Jesus is the best friend they will ever have.

If you have young dancers in your home and want to encourage them in their faith (and their dance) grab a copy. You'll be glad you did!

Reviewer: Mary Hosmar

This delightful children’s picture book is filled with truths. The poetry and charming photos will keep the very young enthralled. Older children will enjoy reading it for themselves.

The photos compliment and illustrate the text and the child’s facial expressions will evoke a response from even the youngest readers. Glynis Belec has taken Amanda Belec Newton’s photography and added the poetry and together they have created a picture book which reassures children about Jesus’ love for them.

Reviewer: Janis Cox

A fascinating story using the historical references of  William Lyon Mackenzie and the Upper Canada Rebellion of 1837. Mary has made that time in history come alive by creating real characters and having them work through their emotions regarding their decisions of whether to join in the rebellion or not. Well written. Fast-paced. A great read.