Winter Reads From Zonderkidz

Hard to believe we're at the end of January already! It's only been a month, but the year is already zipping by! I think about that because I'm already sharing a Valentine's Day book with you! *jaw drop*

I look at children's books in an entirely new way now that I have a granddaughter in the picture. Sure, she's only a month old, but every kid book will now be viewed in light of her and me being her grandma! I'm SO glad I decided to review these books.

The first book is

Valentine's Day Treats

by Tara Knudson

Illustrated by Pauline Siewert

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310768395

Summary:

From sparkly cards to heart-shaped cakes to a party with friends, Valentine’s Day Treats captures the joy and fun of holiday traditions. The fun, read-aloud rhymes and bright, adorable illustrations are perfect for evoking favorite holiday memories and—with the included recipe to make your very own heart-shaped cereal treats—creating new ones!

My Review:

The first thing you notice about this delightful board book is the cover (of course). Aside from the adorable raccoons and squirrel, the glittered texture is so fun! The font on the cover and throughout the story are very cute and go along with the adorableness of it!

The illustrations that go along with the rhymes on each page will draw children into the story. I have no doubt that when my little granddaughter is old enough she'll want to craft just like the raccoon family. It's sweet watching mama raccoon help her kids make Valentine's Day treats for their friends.

And of course, if your kids (or grandkids ahem) are old enough to help out in the kitchen, definitely try the recipe included on the back! Super simple and fun for the kiddos to personalize!

near

by Sally Lloyd-Jones

Illustrator: Jago

Publisher: Zonderkidz

ISBN: 9780310768265

Summary:

God is my Father who made everything.

And I am a little explorer of the wide world.

He is near me

And he protects me.

He sees me

And he knows me.

He is strong

And he looks after me.He is with me—always!

Near:

• Is written by Sally Lloyd-Jones, the bestselling author of The Jesus Storybook Bible
• Contains lyrical text inspired by Psalm 139
• Contains a reassuring message that helps calm kids’ nerves, soothe their anxieties, and ease their fears
• Features a soft padded format that is a perfect fit for little hands
• Is a great gift for a new baby, First Communion, or birthday

My Review:

Books are such a great way to share Scripture with our little ones. Psalm 139 has always been a favorite of mine and seeing it illustrated for babies or toddlers, I was excited to review it so I could give it to my daughter for her daughter. I was bummed it didn't arrive before I headed to MN, but was grateful to see it when I got home.

I love how the illustrations go along with the words. For example, the first page has 3 children, 2 cats, and a dog in a hot air balloon looking out over the expanse of the Earth. Whether the children are in the city or the countryside, the words remind children that God is with them.

The illustrations help the children to go on an adventure around the world and in outer space. So many animals and experiences that the children in the book go through helps us to see how He will always be there. No matter what we do or where we go, God won't ever leave them. So reassuring to to share that good news with them!

Be sure to look through the next to last page to see all of the fun the kids have enjoyed throughout the story!