It’s been awhile since I’ve done any kind of review on here, especially a book review. I struggled when I was relaunching this space, wondering if there was room on a blog about community to talk about products I loved. I think there is – and while it might be limited to the occasional post, I think there is something special about sharing your favorite finds with your friends that makes community a really fun place to be.
Last week I received a book in the mail from BookSneeze* (y’all know about them, right? Love.) I have to say, it made my heart happy to receive a children’s book because I knew I could read it in one sitting. Something I rarely have time for with adult books anymore – unless you count reading all of “The Antelope in the Living Room“** on one plane ride last week (hilarious and sure to make the guy in the seat beside you think you’re a little crazy with the laughter).
I thought there was a chance that Madi might like this book, since she’s currently a big fan of yelling “Yo Ho!” at the television when Jake & the Neverland Pirates are on. Added to her newly discovered “favorite” animal (pigs) and the extreme joy she has singing “Old MacDonald” in the back of the car (mostly the EIEIOs), it seemed like a book called “Pirates on the Farm” would find a happy home with our kiddo.
The book is a charming “love thy neighbor” tale about a family who happens to find themselves suddenly living beside pirates. Pirates who want to be farmers, but don’t seem to know how. Each member of the family reacts differently – excitement, fear, love. It’s a very child-appropriate, entertaining story to teach children Biblical principals. The story is a quick read, perfect for an easily distracted toddler, and enjoyable enough that I don’t mind reading it several times in a row. As Madi grows older, the discussion questions and scripture references in the back will be a valuable resource. I’m looking forward to the next Zonderkidz “Next Door” book coming out later this year to add to the collection.
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There are so many amazing things happening this week, and I wanted to share a few of them with you:
This post by Emily Freeman? Grab a box of tissues and get ready for the ugly cry. Then hop over to Compassion and see who God might have as your”Otwii Paul.”
This book by Lisa-Jo Baker? Go pre-order it now. Buy extra and give them as Mother’s Day gifts. Start planning your summer book club around it. I see so much of my own motherhood story as she shares so beautifully, and I know you’ll be encouraged & blessed.
These groups over at (in)courage? Go join one. Invite the teachers, professionals, mothers, work-at-home, stay-at-home, Bible study loving, encouragement needing women in your life to join, too. Over 700 ladies have already signed up, and we have room for at least that many more. Come and be encouraged.
This eBook by Holley Gerth? Y’all. I want you to buy it so that you are encouraged and loved the way only Holley can do…but I also want you to get a copy & flip to the acknowledgements & see a familiar name ๐ Blush.
These earrings by Noonday Collection? Swoon. I think these are my new love language. Maybe a Valentine’s Day gift for your sweetheart? {{hint}} to the hubs who reads my posts {{hint}} If anyone who lives near me would like to become an Ambassador for Noonday, please tell me & I’ll happily host your first show!
What are your favorites from around the web this week?ย
* ย I received the book free from BookSneeze in exchange for an honest review. Which you just read.
** Some affiliate links are included in this post. If you click through & purchase, I receive a very small compensation. If you choose not to click on them, kittens everywhere are sad. Kidding. Nothing happens.ย
I did not know about Booksneeze. So thank you. ๐
You’re welcome ๐ Lot’s of great choices…so many, in fact, that I’m paralyzed to choose my next one!
I signed up after reading this and have my first book coming my way.
Hi Crystal! I’m your closest Noonday Ambassador and I would LOVE to bring a trunk show to your home.
My kids will LOVE this!!! I’ve wrestled with the same question on my little blog over my newfound passion for noonday. I figure we should share the things that make us smile! Thanks for sharing, Crystal!
I agree completely, Miriam ๐ It’s fun to have fun when we blog!
I had already read Emily’s post…no words.
I ordered Holley’s book…read the acknowledgements.
Those earrings are lovely.
And your words as always, I enjoy reading them.
You make me happy, Mary ๐