Category: Book Review and Author Interviews

Book Review and Author Interviews, Devotional, family devotions, Kid Ministry

5 Fun Facts from Laura Sassi about her latest release!

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Hey everyone! I have a special treat for you today! My friend Laura Sassi just released the third book in her TENDER HEART SERIES and she is here today to give us the inside scoop!

Here are 5 fun facts about her lastest release entitled MY TENDER HEART DEVOTIONS!

My Tender Heart Devotions: Five Fun Facts

Fact #1:  I originally pitched My Tender Heart Devotions as a collection of 40 devotions. As I was writing it, however, the ideas kept flowing so I asked the team at Paraclete if we could expand it to 50. My editor said yes. Then I thought, why stop at 50? Why not make it 52 so that there could be one devotional for each week of the year?  The team at Paraclete Press thought that was a great idea and so that’s why there are 52 in the final printed version.

Fact #2: This is the third in the My Tender Heart series.  Expanding on the format of the first two books, My Tender Heart Bible and My Tender Heart Prayer Book, the devotional combines fun rhyming poems, scripture, short Biblically-grounded messages and Heart Moments of response to plant seeds of faith in tender hearts. I hope and pray this newest installment nurtures a new generation that loves digging into God’s word, connecting with Him through prayer, and responding by sharing God’s love with others. 

Fact #3: Illustrator Sandra Eide and I both love dogs (and cats and bunnies and hamsters)!  One of neat little details you will notice in this book and the other two in the series is that Sandra has included adorable dogs on many spreads. There’s even a canine cutie on the cover of the book (along with a cute kitten).  As you read this book along with the other two, see how many dogs you can spot.  And if you follow us on our socials you will quickly notice that we both like to post about our cute pooches, too.  Woof! Woof!

Fact #4: This is my first book that includes an index! Because this book contains 52 devotions spanning 112 pages, I decided that a topical index might be helpful so parents, teachers, children’s ministry folk so they can more can quickly and easily find the devotion that fits the need of the moment. The index includes topics like forgiveness, patience, serving others, praising God and more.

Fact #5: There are many ways parents, pastors and teachers can use this sweet devotional to grow their children’s faith.  Because there are 52 weeks in a year, a family or class can read and reflect on one each week during a family/class Bible study time.  A children’s pastor can use selections from the book as the spark for a children’s message during a church service. But my favorite way might just be at night, as the cozy wrap up to story time so that a child’s day concludes with sweet thoughts of God’s love and a bedtime prayer.  

THANKS, LAURA!!

I received a beautiful copy in the mail and I think it is one of the best new resources I have seen in a long time written to help you impart spiritual truth to your toddler or pre-school child! Each devotion has a simple poem, a vers, a kid-friendly lesson, and a heart moment. Its engaging lessons and charming rhyme are perfect of little hearts! You will definitely want to invest in this resource for your family!

You can order the book using this link: MY TENDER HEART DEVOTIONS

Find out more about Laura Sassi at her website: LAURA SASSI TALES

#mytenderheart #familyresources #devotions #familydevotions #preschool #paraclete

Board Book, Book Review and Author Interviews, Children's Bible, Giveaway, Kid Ministry

FIVE FUN FACTS about MY TENDER HEART BIBLE

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I’m so thrilled to welcome my friend Laura Sassi to the blog today. She is here to tell us five fun facts about her latest book published by Paraclete Press. You will also find details about the opportunity to win a copy of MY TENDER HEART BIBLE at the bottom of the post.

FIVE FUN FACTS about MY TENDER HEART BIBLE with Laura Sassi

Here is what Laura had to say:

Fact #1: Writing My Tender Heart Bible was a dream project. From the time my children were little, God planted an idea in my heart — to write my own rhyming Bible story collection. Because rhyming text is appealing to little ears, I believed it would lend itself beautifully introducing littlest ones to deep truths in a short fun format. It only took 15 years or so, ha-ha, for that idea to become reality!

Fact #2: I had written only FOUR of the TWELVE  when I pitched the idea to Paraclete, but had the whole collection in mind. When they said, “Yes!” I was able to then write and polish the final manuscript within the time frame of a couple of months. This was possible because I had been so prayerful and thoughtful in my planning. I wanted to make sure that both individually, and as a whole, the stories conveyed several key themes including that God loves them, that He is good, that God Keeps His promises, even we grumble or fuss or break ours, and that He has a plan to redeem us through His son Jesus.

Fact #3: Each rhyming Bible story is paired with a Bible verse, a Heart Moment, and a beautiful illustration with lots to notice. I chose this format for several reasons. First, I included Bible citations so that little readers and their families would know that these aren’t just any stories – they are stories from God’s Word. Second, illustrations with lots to point to and ponder were also important so that children could really immerse themselves in the story (and hasn’t illustrator Sandra Eide done a marvelous job!) Finally, I wanted each story experience to conclude with a Heart Moment of prayer because when we encounter God’s love and God’s word, it touches our hearts and begs us to respond!

Fact #4: My Tender Heart Bible is not your typical board book. Yes, the format is board book, but the content has way more text than a traditional board book. Thematically, it’s also much richer, with much more to ponder than a typical board book. Each spread is a story unto itself and, unlike most board books which are designed to be read in one sitting, I envision families picking just one out of the twelve to read at a sitting.  Gauging from the kids and families I’ve shared the book with so far, it’s suitable for a nice broad range of ages – birth to up eight years old – which is perfect for reading as a family with multi-aged siblings.

Fact #5: The publisher has created some awesome resources to go with the book.  Because My Tender Heart Bible is the first of a series (ooh, I could have made that Fun Fact #6!), Paraclete Press has created a website for all things My Tender Heart at https://mytenderheartbooks.com. There you will find free downloadable resources for My Tender Heart Bible including book-themed illustrated printable memory verse cards, greeting cards, and other fun things like a  book trailer and an inspirational video.  The website also lists upcoming book events and even has a contact page. I hope you will check it out. 

Mindy here: Thank you so much, Laura! I loved hearing your 5 fun facts about your book. I love the project and think it will be a treasure for years to come. Best wishes!

Check out this beautiful interior photo!

Interior photo used with permission

About Laura Sassi:

Laura Sassi finds great joy in writing picture books for children. She is the author of seven published books for children with the eighth and ninth scheduled to release in 2023. She loves visiting schools and engaging with writers, parents, church groups and more at special events. You can interact with her at her website (Link below).

Book trailer

Author website

And now for the Give-Away!

RULES TO ENTER:

  1. First, make sure you are following @mindybakerbooks and @LauraSassitales on Instagram.
  2. For one entry, leave a comment on this blog post or on any @mindybakerbooks Instagram post about My Tenderheart Bible (This week’s posts only).
  3. For an additional entry, tag a friend on one of the Instagram posts. (one additional entry per tag) or share the post to your stories tagging @mindybakerbooks and @laurasassitales.
  4. For 10 entries, sign up to receive my mini-magazine.
  5. Deadline to enter is Wednesday, March 15, at 6pm EST
  6. Winner will be announced March 16 on this blog and on @mindybakerbooks Instagram account.

You must be living in the continental United States to win. Paraclete Press is sponsoring this give-away and will mail the winner the book. A big thank you Laura Sassi and to Paraclete Press for this offer.

Board Book, Book Review and Author Interviews, Easter, family devotions, Giveaway, My Faith, Parent and Child Connection

Introducing Snuggle Time Easter Stories (Plus Giveaway!)

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Glenys Nellist has a darling new release just in time for the Easter Season. It is the latest in her Snuggle Time Series entitled Snuggle Time Easter Stories. Illustrated by Cee Biscoe and published by Zonderkidz, it is just the right text to introduce your little one to Jesus and the meaning of Easter.

The poems and Scripture that are included are Easter Song (Zephaniah 3:17), Easter Story (1 John 3:16), The Donkey (John 12:14), The Last Supper (1 Corinthians 11:24), Washing Feet (John 15:12), In the Garden (Mark 14:46), Jesus Dies on the Cross (Luke 23:45), Jesus Comes Alive (Luke 24:6), Mary’s Story (John 20:18), Breakfast on the Beach (Matthew 28:19), Jesus Is With You (John 20:31), and Song of Hope (Revelation 1:18).

That is a lot of truth packed into one book!

Your child will also enjoy finding the two bunnies on each page spread. Can you find them in the pictures below?

The book also offers a free activity download.

Also, check out this video trailer.

If you would like to purchase the book, you can order it here.

To find out more about Glenys Nellist and all of her wonderful titles, visit her website!

AND NOW FOR THE GIVEAWAY DETAILS!

I am so happy to be giving away one copy of Snuggle Time Easter Stories!

This giveaway is sponsored by the publisher, Zonderkidz, and is open to entrants living in the USA with a physical street address (no PO boxes.) 

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Follow @mindybakerbooks and @glenysnellist on Instagram and leave a comment on any Instagram post this weekend about the give-away.

2. You can also tag a friend on any Instagram post this weekend for even more entries. One entry per tag.

3. Share the post to your stories and tag myself and Glenys. One entry per story share.

4. Leave a comment on this blog post for an additional entry.

5. For 10 additional entries, follow this blog and/or subscribe to my mini-magazine. You will receive free bi-monthly content and also be notified of any new posts.

6. You must enter by 6pm EST on Friday, March 25, 2022. I will draw the winner and post the result here and on Instagram Saturday morning, March 26, 2022.

I can’t wait to see who wins!

Glenys, I’m so happy for you with this latest book. It is adorable!

Book Review and Author Interviews, Fun for kids, Kid Ministry, My Faith, Parent and Child Connection

A Chat With Laura Sassi About Her New Book

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Today I’m highlighting Bunny Finds Easter, the latest board book from author Laura Sassi. I invited Laura here today because I wanted to discuss how much the role of the illustrations play in bringing a picture book story to life. I’m so thrilled that she accepted my request!

MINDY: First of all, Laura, thank you so much for stopping by! What a treat for you to be here!

LAURA: I’m happy to join you, Mindy. I love to discuss picture books!

MINDY: I have to tell you, Laura, how much I have enjoyed my advance copy! I really love that Jesus is highlighted so prominently as the reason we celebrate Easter. That is so dear to my heart and my faith! I also adore the illustrations in this book and wanted to discuss that topic with you a little bit. I know that once you turn your manuscript in, the artist job begins. It is always amazing to me how much charm illustrators are able to add to the text. My first question for you is, what is your favorite page spread in this book? 

LAURA: Truly, I love them all but I’m going to pick the spread that reads “She hops to town. Cheep. Chirp. Who’s there?  Babies, babies, everywhere!” because I think it captures beautifully the amplified way that the illustrations add heart and depth to the story in board books. 

MINDY: What do you love about it?

LAURA: At first glance, this spread seems simple enough. But if you look carefully, there are oodles of picture clues and story elements for littlest ones and their parents to notice and enjoy. 

First, the text says simply “Babies, babies, everywhere.” The illustrations fill that out with adorable chicks sliding down a hay stack while a mother hen (with matching Easter bonnet and purse) looks one. But there are other babies, too. Can you spot the tadpoles?  

MINDY: I do spot them! So adorable!

LAURA: Second, observant little ones might notice that Mama is now carrying a bouquet of lilies. These are the lilies that Bunny clipped on the previous spread. Now we know why she clipped them. For Mama!

MINDY: I love how the story connects from page to page. Brilliant!

LAURA: Third, look what’s peeking through in the background. It’s the church!  If you are observant, you will notice that from this spread on, Bunny keeps hopping closer and closer to church.  I like to think of this as the board book version of foreshadowing because guess where Bunny will discover what Easter is all about?  If you guessed that the will find the final clue in that little chapel, you are right!

MINDY: I am so intrigued by this! What else?

LAURA: Other details to notice on the spread. The houses. Where is everybody? On their way to church, maybe? And is Bunny holding a basket? Why might that be? (Hint: It’s a clue to the activity on the next page.)

MINDY: Wow, Laura! The illustrator truly did a fabulous job bringing your words to life! I have loved taking this deeper look at some of the treasures on each page.

LAURA: Yes, the illustrations are so important in picture books!

MINDY: One other thing I wanted to ask, I have heard you mentioning on social media about some fantastic freebies that accompany this book. Can you tell us how we can take advantage of these opportunities?

LAURA: Yes, Zonderkidz has created two great resources for BUNNY FINDS EASTER. The first is an activity kit that includes coloring pages, a maze, a printable Easter card and more. Here’s the link for that: https://laurasassitales.wordpress.com/2022/02/03/parents-teachers-kidmin-download-your-free-activity-kit-for-bunny-finds-easter-2/

The second is an instruction sheet for a BUNNY FINDS EASTER book walk, an intergenerational event in which participants walk from station to station to read spreads from the story and have an activity at the end. Here’s the link for that: https://laurasassitales.wordpress.com/2022/01/24/host-a-bunny-finds-easter-book-walk-free-printable-resource/

MINDY: Both of these resources look fantastic and fun. I truly can’t recommend it your new book enough, especially as the perfect gift to be tucked into an Easter basket! Thank you so much for joining me today, Laura! I wish you all the best in your future writing endeavors. I know you have a book coming out this fall for the Christmas season. I will be following your blog to hear more details about that one, too!

LAURA: Thanks for having me! It has been a delight to chat together.

MINDY: Thank you, Laura! It has been a treat!

And, for all of you readers, if you are interested in buying the book, here is a link.

Also, to find out more about Laura and her other books, check out her website or follower her on social media. I also recommend following her blog. She posts regularly with fantastic content!

Did you know?? Laura and I work together with several other authors including Rebecca Gomez, Tina Cho, and Trine Grillo on a new website called www.readdiscussdo.com. I will be doing another interview with Laura there later this month.

Watch for more details and thanks for joining us today!

Book Review and Author Interviews, Devotional, family devotions, Fun for kids, Giveaway, Kid Ministry, My Faith, Parent and Child Connection

Twas the Season of Advent–Giveaway for Glenys Nellist’s new release

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Hey everyone! I’m so excited to be hosting a give-away for Glenys Nellist’s latest release in the Twas series entitled, Twas the Season of Advent. It is a fabulous family devotional with accompanying artwork by Elena Selivanova.

Description: This is a product perfect for family devotions along with many other settings. There are 25 devotions, one for each day leading up to Christmas, with a blend of stories from the Old and New Testament. I love that Nellist has included the story of Isaiah, as I believe it is so important to remember the fact that God promised to send Jesus seven hundred years before he was born! What a miracle!

At the beginning of each page is a poem in the cadence of Clement C. Moore’s classic, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. There is also a highlighted scripture, and several paragraphs to read aloud together with your child. Each devotion concludes with a heart-felt prayer that also serves to summarize the main point of the day and personalize it for the reader.

For example: I love the story of the angel appearing to Mary. This is the content of the devotion for December 6th. The title is “My Answer is Yes.” The prayer reads:

“Dear God, thank you for Mary who was so brave and trusted you. When I need to be brave, help me remember that you are with me.“

Another page that is especially meaningful is the way Nellist concludes the book:

“I wonder how you are celebrating this holy night. I hope that wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, you might come to the manger, where God is waiting to meet you. No matter if your home is quiet or noisy this Christmas Eve–in the hustle or the hush; in the chaos or the calm; in the sound or in the silence, God is waiting to meet you there.

Dear God, as we gather around the manger, help us to listen as you whisper into our heart. Help each one of us truly know that this child–Jesus, Prince of Peace, Immanuel, the Word, was born for us. Thank you for this holy Christmas Eve.“

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There is so much rich and meaningful content packed into this book! I pray that God will powerfully use it in the hearts of all who read it. Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, and he is also the Savior–the Messiah–the one who was born to save each of us from our sin. I am so thankful that Glenys Nellist has written this book, and that Zonderkidz has chosen to publish it. It speaks of the most important message.The message of Jesus Christ.

You will be glad you purchased this book and decided to use it with your family!!!

AND NOW FOR THE GIVEAWAY DETAILS!

I am so happy to be giving away one copy of ‘Twas the Season of Advent!

This giveaway is sponsored by the publisher, Zonderkidz, and is open to entrants living in the USA with a physical street address (no PO boxes.) 

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Follow @mindybakerbooks and @glenysnellist on Instagram and leave a comment on any Instagram post this weekend about the give-away.

2. You can also tag a friend on any Instagram post this weekend for even more entries. One entry per tag.

3. Leave a comment on this blog post for an additional entry.

4. For 10 additional entries, follow this blog and/or subscribe to my mini-magazine. You will receive free bi-monthly content and also be notified of any new posts.

5. You must enter by 6pm EST on Sunday, November 14, 2021. I will draw the winner and post the result here and on Instagram Monday morning, November 15, 2021.

MORE INFORMATION:

Here is a link to purchase the book!

You can find out more about Glenys at her website. She has loads of other wonderful titles!

I absolutely love how Zonderkidz produces free resources to accompany their books. There is a free Parent/Teacher Guide for Twas the Season of Advent that has daily questions and follow-up activities. You can download them at the Zonderkidz website. Check it out!

This blog post is part of a BLOG HOP. The next scheduled post will be December 15th on the Instagram of @DeeperKidmin (Brittany Nelson)