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✨ April Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

• Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

⭐ 4 Stars

• My Man, Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse
• Heir to Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

⭐ 3 Stars
• Playing it Safe and Locked in Pursuit by Ashley Weaver

➡️Currently Reading:

• The Beijing Betrayal by Joel C. Rosenberg
• Mama Bear Apologetics Guide by Hillary Ferrer
• The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White

👋🏽 Spy and favorites?

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.

#aprilreads #fictionbooks #booksforwomen #christianfiction

✨ April Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

• Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

⭐ 4 Stars

• My Man, Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse
• Heir to Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

⭐ 3 Stars
• Playing it Safe and Locked in Pursuit by Ashley Weaver

➡️Currently Reading:

• The Beijing Betrayal by Joel C. Rosenberg
• Mama Bear Apologetics Guide by Hillary Ferrer
• The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White

👋🏽 Spy and favorites?

.

.

#aprilreads #fictionbooks #booksforwomen #christianfiction

Do you have a favorite series for middle grades ⤵️

Here's one of ours:

🌟 National Park Mystery Series Books 1-3 by Aaron Johnson

"Before leaving on a two-month summer vacation, Jake Evans finds a gift from his deceased grandfather that will lead him on a scavenger hunt through ten of America's most rugged, wild, and beautiful national parks."

🌟 Thoughts:

This series is an incredible way to get a taste of the beauty God created. I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery storyline and am looking forward to reading the final book to see how it all ends! 🥰

👍🏼 I appreciate the family structure portrayed in these stories. The interactions between kids and parents are very respectful, there are consequences shown for wrong choices, and examples of intentional parenting.

Aaron does a fantastic job of adding in tons of information about each national park you visit. The stories include beautiful illustrations and details of nature and historical attractions within the parks.

There are currently five books available in the series!

🌟Recommended ages:

• Read Aloud: Ages 7+
• Read Alone: Ages 9+

🤐 There are several uses of "oh my gosh", "what the heck", "darn" (especially in books 2 and 3).

➡️What book series would you recommend for middle grades?

For more book suggestions,check out my #livingbooklegacy friend's posts:

@treasuredhourbookshop
@thesewildknights
@juiceboxhomeschool
@brave.little.learners
@brittsbookbin
@livingbrighthomeschool
@agoodbookhunt
@blessedwithmotherhood

Do you have a favorite series for middle grades ⤵️

Here's one of ours:

🌟 National Park Mystery Series Books 1-3 by Aaron Johnson

"Before leaving on a two-month summer vacation, Jake Evans finds a gift from his deceased grandfather that will lead him on a scavenger hunt through ten of America's most rugged, wild, and beautiful national parks."

🌟 Thoughts:

This series is an incredible way to get a taste of the beauty God created. I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery storyline and am looking forward to reading the final book to see how it all ends! 🥰

👍🏼 I appreciate the family structure portrayed in these stories. The interactions between kids and parents are very respectful, there are consequences shown for wrong choices, and examples of intentional parenting.

Aaron does a fantastic job of adding in tons of information about each national park you visit. The stories include beautiful illustrations and details of nature and historical attractions within the parks.

There are currently five books available in the series!

🌟Recommended ages:

• Read Aloud: Ages 7+
• Read Alone: Ages 9+

🤐 There are several uses of "oh my gosh", "what the heck", "darn" (especially in books 2 and 3).

➡️What book series would you recommend for middle grades?

For more book suggestions,check out my #livingbooklegacy friend's posts:

@treasuredhourbookshop
@thesewildknights
@juiceboxhomeschool
@brave.little.learners
@brittsbookbin
@livingbrighthomeschool
@agoodbookhunt
@blessedwithmotherhood

Get your free book list ⤵️

🌷 May reminds me of flowers, gardening, imagination, and Mother's Day!

➡️ Comment the word "May" below and I'll message you a direct link.

**Also check out my other monthly reading lists!

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.

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#mayreading #readingcalendar #maypicturebooks #picturebooksformay #monthlybooklist #booksforspring #springpicturebooks

Get your free book list ⤵️

🌷 May reminds me of flowers, gardening, imagination, and Mother's Day!

➡️ Comment the word "May" below and I'll message you a direct link.

**Also check out my other monthly reading lists!

.

.

.

#mayreading #readingcalendar #maypicturebooks #picturebooksformay #monthlybooklist #booksforspring #springpicturebooks

🎉 Stories that make us laugh are the best⤵️

Here is a list of some our favorites:

⭐ If I Built series and Circus Ship by Chris Van Dusen

⭐ Giraffe Problems by Jory John

⭐ The Bear Ate Your Sandwich by Julia Sarcone-Roach

⭐ Mother Bruce Series by Ryan T. Higgins

⭐ Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin

⭐ Knight Owl series by Christopher Denise

⭐ Mercy Watson by Kate DiCamollo

⭐ Mr. Putter & Tabby Series by Cynthia Rylant

⭐ Sir Lancelot the Great by Gerald Morris

⭐ Ling and Ting by Grace Lin

⭐ The Very, Very Far North by Dan Bar-el

⭐ Mr. Pine's Purple House by Leonard Kessler

➡️Do you have a favorite book that made you laugh out loud? 🤗

Check out my #livingbooklegacy friend posts for more recommendations:

@brittsbookbin
@livingbrighthomeschool
@thisnewday_
@blessedwithmotherhood
@letthemlovelearning

🎉 Stories that make us laugh are the best⤵️

Here is a list of some our favorites:

⭐ If I Built series and Circus Ship by Chris Van Dusen

⭐ Giraffe Problems by Jory John

⭐ The Bear Ate Your Sandwich by Julia Sarcone-Roach

⭐ Mother Bruce Series by Ryan T. Higgins

⭐ Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin

⭐ Knight Owl series by Christopher Denise

⭐ Mercy Watson by Kate DiCamollo

⭐ Mr. Putter & Tabby Series by Cynthia Rylant

⭐ Sir Lancelot the Great by Gerald Morris

⭐ Ling and Ting by Grace Lin

⭐ The Very, Very Far North by Dan Bar-el

⭐ Mr. Pine's Purple House by Leonard Kessler

➡️Do you have a favorite book that made you laugh out loud? 🤗

Check out my #livingbooklegacy friend posts for more recommendations:

@brittsbookbin
@livingbrighthomeschool
@thisnewday_
@blessedwithmotherhood
@letthemlovelearning

✨ Do you have a favorite family read aloud? ⤵️

I asked some friends to share theirs and this is what they chose:

🌸 A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus - Trisha @juiceboxhomeschool

🌸 The Complete Brambly Hedge by Jill Barklem - Ariel @blessedwithmotherhood

🌸 Lepunia by Kevin Ford - Alison @reading.in.azaleawoods

🌸 The Adventures of Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne - Kate @remedystorytime

🌸 Charlotte's Web by E.B. White - Jessica @lifegivingpages

🌸 Little Pilgrim's Big Journey by Tyler Van Halteren - Katie @mudpieswithsprinkles

🌸 Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren - Leah @family.book.nook

🌸 The Very, Very Far North by Dan Bar-el - Me (Sonya) @thisnewday_

✨ Let's start a thread of favorite read alouds - drop yours in the comments! ⤵️

✨ Do you have a favorite family read aloud? ⤵️

I asked some friends to share theirs and this is what they chose:

🌸 A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus - Trisha @juiceboxhomeschool

🌸 The Complete Brambly Hedge by Jill Barklem - Ariel @blessedwithmotherhood

🌸 Lepunia by Kevin Ford - Alison @reading.in.azaleawoods

🌸 The Adventures of Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne - Kate @remedystorytime

🌸 Charlotte's Web by E.B. White - Jessica @lifegivingpages

🌸 Little Pilgrim's Big Journey by Tyler Van Halteren - Katie @mudpieswithsprinkles

🌸 Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren - Leah @family.book.nook

🌸 The Very, Very Far North by Dan Bar-el - Me (Sonya) @thisnewday_

✨ Let's start a thread of favorite read alouds - drop yours in the comments! ⤵️

✨ Have you ever wanted to study the minor prophets with your kids, but it looks daunting?

👉🏽 This series, God's Daring Dozen by John Brown and Brian Wright, has been a game-changer!

We have been reading through these gorgeous book sets and it has been a fantastic way for my kids (and myself!) to learn more about these amazing men of God.

The text is short and gentle, which makes it perfect for younger ages!

🛑 Giveaway Closed 🛑

➡️ We would like to give away one box set to one of you! The set includes the following books: Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Obadiah and Haggai.

✨ How to enter:

1. Follow @christianfocuspublications and @thisnewday_

2. Tage some friends in the comments

3. Share this post in your stories and tag @thisnewday_
*If you have a private account please send me a screenshot of your story.

✨ That's all!

The giveaway will run until Monday, April 14 and the winner will be announced the next day.

** This giveaway is not sponsored by Meta or affiliates. You must be a resident of the U.S. to enter and be 18+.

✨ Have you ever wanted to study the minor prophets with your kids, but it looks daunting?

👉🏽 This series, God's Daring Dozen by John Brown and Brian Wright, has been a game-changer!

We have been reading through these gorgeous book sets and it has been a fantastic way for my kids (and myself!) to learn more about these amazing men of God.

The text is short and gentle, which makes it perfect for younger ages!

🛑 Giveaway Closed 🛑

➡️ We would like to give away one box set to one of you! The set includes the following books: Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Obadiah and Haggai.

✨ How to enter:

1. Follow @christianfocuspublications and @thisnewday_

2. Tage some friends in the comments

3. Share this post in your stories and tag @thisnewday_
*If you have a private account please send me a screenshot of your story.

✨ That's all!

The giveaway will run until Monday, April 14 and the winner will be announced the next day.

** This giveaway is not sponsored by Meta or affiliates. You must be a resident of the U.S. to enter and be 18+.

✨ Book Review ✨

➡️ The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House by Joanna Davidson Politano

✨ Description:

It is 1901 when clockmaker and tinker Sydney Forrester receives a most unusual inheritance. Blakely House, the island estate of an estranged uncle she's never met, seems almost alive, revealing and hiding its secrets at will. It is filled with remarkable inventions, including an intriguing unfinished automaton Sydney is itching to get her skilled hands on.

The estate is also home to a number of peculiar people--including two men intent on removing this interloper from the island. Convinced that Sydney has something to do with their uncle's death, the late master's nephews contest the will and work against their cousin at every turn.

Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 5/5
🤐 Language: None
🔥 Spice: A few gentle kisses
👋🏽Content: Child abandonment, loss of parents, death, grief

I have read all of Joanna's books and this is hands-down my new favorite! 💕 The characters, the plot, the mystery all lend themselves to a beautiful storyline!

Joanna lays out the Gospel story in such a personal, relatable way - inviting us to see Christ in the creation around us and also reminding us that, as humans, are unfinished works of art.

Someday we will know a place of true belonging and experience being fully-known. Our broken pieces will be made new and we will truly be made whole.

This is a touching story of redemption and hope!

.

Thank you @revellfiction and @joannadavidsonpolitano for my free copy of the book to review. As always, all of these thoughts are honest and my own.

.

.

.

#joannadavidsonpolitano #revellfiction #cleanfiction #steampunkfiction #christianfiction #christianbookstagram

✨ Book Review ✨

➡️ The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House by Joanna Davidson Politano

✨ Description:

It is 1901 when clockmaker and tinker Sydney Forrester receives a most unusual inheritance. Blakely House, the island estate of an estranged uncle she's never met, seems almost alive, revealing and hiding its secrets at will. It is filled with remarkable inventions, including an intriguing unfinished automaton Sydney is itching to get her skilled hands on.

The estate is also home to a number of peculiar people--including two men intent on removing this interloper from the island. Convinced that Sydney has something to do with their uncle's death, the late master's nephews contest the will and work against their cousin at every turn.

Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 5/5
🤐 Language: None
🔥 Spice: A few gentle kisses
👋🏽Content: Child abandonment, loss of parents, death, grief

I have read all of Joanna's books and this is hands-down my new favorite! 💕 The characters, the plot, the mystery all lend themselves to a beautiful storyline!

Joanna lays out the Gospel story in such a personal, relatable way - inviting us to see Christ in the creation around us and also reminding us that, as humans, are unfinished works of art.

Someday we will know a place of true belonging and experience being fully-known. Our broken pieces will be made new and we will truly be made whole.

This is a touching story of redemption and hope!

.

Thank you @revellfiction and @joannadavidsonpolitano for my free copy of the book to review. As always, all of these thoughts are honest and my own.

.

.

.

#joannadavidsonpolitano #revellfiction #cleanfiction #steampunkfiction #christianfiction #christianbookstagram

✨Cultivating Courage ✨

Here's my book list:

🌸 Jesus Moments - Moses and Jesus and the Lion's Den by Alison Mitchell

🌸Pilipinto by Valerie Elliot Shepard

🌸 Trial and Triumph by Richard Hanula

🌸 Knight Owl by Christopher Denise

🌸 Henry's Freedom Box by Kadir Nelson

🌸 Elisabeth Elliot by Danielle Lopes

🌸 The Courage of Sarah Noble and The Bears on Hemlock Mountain by Alice Dalgliesh

🌸 Brave Irene by William Steig

🌸 Obadiah the Bold by Brinton Turkle

🌸 The God Contest by Carl Laferton

🌸 Little Pilgrim's Progress by Hellen L. Taylor

🌸 St. Conrad and the Wildfire by Maura Roan McKeegan

🌸 The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

🌸 The Light that Shines Forever by David T Warner

➡️What books would you add?

Check out the posts from my friends at #livingbooklegacy:

@juiceboxhomeschool
@thisnewday_
@brittsbookbin
@agoodbookhunt

✨Cultivating Courage ✨

Here's my book list:

🌸 Jesus Moments - Moses and Jesus and the Lion's Den by Alison Mitchell

🌸Pilipinto by Valerie Elliot Shepard

🌸 Trial and Triumph by Richard Hanula

🌸 Knight Owl by Christopher Denise

🌸 Henry's Freedom Box by Kadir Nelson

🌸 Elisabeth Elliot by Danielle Lopes

🌸 The Courage of Sarah Noble and The Bears on Hemlock Mountain by Alice Dalgliesh

🌸 Brave Irene by William Steig

🌸 Obadiah the Bold by Brinton Turkle

🌸 The God Contest by Carl Laferton

🌸 Little Pilgrim's Progress by Hellen L. Taylor

🌸 St. Conrad and the Wildfire by Maura Roan McKeegan

🌸 The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

🌸 The Light that Shines Forever by David T Warner

➡️What books would you add?

Check out the posts from my friends at #livingbooklegacy:

@juiceboxhomeschool
@thisnewday_
@brittsbookbin
@agoodbookhunt

✨ Nonfiction that reads like fiction ⤵️

I enjoy a good true story! But as an avid reader (+ a mood reader) sometimes it's hard to know how to find stories that captivate and don't get old quickly. 😅

💞 One of my all-time favorites is Defying Jihad by Esther Ahmed

I have put together a list of some of my top nonfiction reads (it includes all topics not just stories).

➡️Comment "nonfiction" to receive the link straight to your inbox!

👋🏽I'd love to know what your favorite nonfiction story is. I'm looking for a new read! 😍

✨ Nonfiction that reads like fiction ⤵️

I enjoy a good true story! But as an avid reader (+ a mood reader) sometimes it's hard to know how to find stories that captivate and don't get old quickly. 😅

💞 One of my all-time favorites is Defying Jihad by Esther Ahmed

I have put together a list of some of my top nonfiction reads (it includes all topics not just stories).

➡️Comment "nonfiction" to receive the link straight to your inbox!

👋🏽I'd love to know what your favorite nonfiction story is. I'm looking for a new read! 😍

✨ Current Reads ✨

Read Alouds with my eight and five year old boys:

🎇 The Wisdom of God by Tyler Van Halteren

🎇 The Apple and the Arrow by

🎇 The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford

🎇 The Adventures of Bo and Mr. Quillery - Book One by Andrew K. Johnston

My Reads:

🎇 When the Flames Ravaged by Rhonda Dragomir

🎇 Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

🎇 Mama Bear Apologetics by Hillary Morgan Ferrer

➡️ What are you reading?

Check out what my #livingbooklegacy friends are reading:

@thesewildknights
@thisnewday_
@letthemlovelearning
@juiceboxhomeschool
@alearningwewillgo
@agoodbookhunt
@playinghomeschool
@livingbrighthomeschool
@brittsbookbin

✨ Current Reads ✨

Read Alouds with my eight and five year old boys:

🎇 The Wisdom of God by Tyler Van Halteren

🎇 The Apple and the Arrow by

🎇 The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford

🎇 The Adventures of Bo and Mr. Quillery - Book One by Andrew K. Johnston

My Reads:

🎇 When the Flames Ravaged by Rhonda Dragomir

🎇 Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

🎇 Mama Bear Apologetics by Hillary Morgan Ferrer

➡️ What are you reading?

Check out what my #livingbooklegacy friends are reading:

@thesewildknights
@thisnewday_
@letthemlovelearning
@juiceboxhomeschool
@alearningwewillgo
@agoodbookhunt
@playinghomeschool
@livingbrighthomeschool
@brittsbookbin

"I homeschool not because I think it will save them but because I want them to hear, as much as possible, about the One who does. Education is discipleship."
- Katie LaPierre

This quote needed a permanent place in this space.

Sometimes in the midst of a hard day (or week), I can forget why I chose this lifestyle of homeschooling.

It isn't always pretty. There are many days when we all sit on the couch and cry together. 😅

I can forget that this is not about me. It's about raising them to know Him. That's all that matters! 💕💕

#homeschoolmom #homeschoolfamily #homeschoolfordiscipleship #homeschool #homeschoolencouragement

"I homeschool not because I think it will save them but because I want them to hear, as much as possible, about the One who does. Education is discipleship."
- Katie LaPierre

This quote needed a permanent place in this space.

Sometimes in the midst of a hard day (or week), I can forget why I chose this lifestyle of homeschooling.

It isn't always pretty. There are many days when we all sit on the couch and cry together. 😅

I can forget that this is not about me. It's about raising them to know Him. That's all that matters! 💕💕

#homeschoolmom #homeschoolfamily #homeschoolfordiscipleship #homeschool #homeschoolencouragement

✨ March Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

•The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House by Joanna Davidson Politano
•Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes
•Volumes 7 & 8 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower
•The Q by Beth Brower

⭐ 4 Stars

• Run Baby Run by Nicky Cruz
• The Queen's Gambit by Beth Brower
• Wormwood Abbey by Christina Baehr
•The Lady and the Lionheart by Joanna Bischof

⭐ 3 Stars
• The Ruby Prince by Beth Brower

👋🏽 Spy and favorites?

.

.

#marchreads #fictionbooks #booksforwomen #christianfiction

✨ March Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

•The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House by Joanna Davidson Politano
•Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes
•Volumes 7 & 8 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower
•The Q by Beth Brower

⭐ 4 Stars

• Run Baby Run by Nicky Cruz
• The Queen's Gambit by Beth Brower
• Wormwood Abbey by Christina Baehr
•The Lady and the Lionheart by Joanna Bischof

⭐ 3 Stars
• The Ruby Prince by Beth Brower

👋🏽 Spy and favorites?

.

.

#marchreads #fictionbooks #booksforwomen #christianfiction

🌟 April Picture Book List 🌟

Looking for some fun picture books to read this month?

I have created a free book list PLUS a printable calendar of some of our favorite books to read in April!

➡️ The printable calendar is a great tool to take along on your library trip!

This month we will be reading some of our favorite books about rainy weather, planting seeds, kindness, and the beginning of spring! 🤗 As always, the list includes several true stories - because those are always our favorites!

Comment "April" to receive the link straight to your DMs!

🌟 April Picture Book List 🌟

Looking for some fun picture books to read this month?

I have created a free book list PLUS a printable calendar of some of our favorite books to read in April!

➡️ The printable calendar is a great tool to take along on your library trip!

This month we will be reading some of our favorite books about rainy weather, planting seeds, kindness, and the beginning of spring! 🤗 As always, the list includes several true stories - because those are always our favorites!

Comment "April" to receive the link straight to your DMs!

🌱 Easter Books 🌱

Easter is just around the corner and now is a great time to begin ordering books from the library! 😉

Here are a few of our favorites:

🌸 The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross by Carl Laferton @thegoodbookcompanyusa

🌸 The Good News of Easter by Rosseaux Brasseur @rousseauxbrasseur

🌸 The Donkey Who Carried the King by R.C. Sproul

🌸 The Easter Lamb by John Greco

🌸 The Tale of the Three Trees by Angela Hunt

🌸 'Twas the Morning of Easter by Glenys Nellist @glenysnellist

🌸 Easter is Coming by Tama Fortner

🌸 The Sower by Scott James

➡️If you want the full list of these books PLUS a bunch more, comment "Risen" and it will come straight to your inbox.

👏🏽Do you have a favorite Easter book?

👋🏽For more Easter books, check out my #livingbooklegacy friend's posts:

@brittsbookbin
@alearningwewillgo
@treasuredhourbookshop
@thesewildknights
@agoodbookhunt
@homewithmytinies
@juiceboxhomeschool

🌱 Easter Books 🌱

Easter is just around the corner and now is a great time to begin ordering books from the library! 😉

Here are a few of our favorites:

🌸 The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross by Carl Laferton @thegoodbookcompanyusa

🌸 The Good News of Easter by Rosseaux Brasseur @rousseauxbrasseur

🌸 The Donkey Who Carried the King by R.C. Sproul

🌸 The Easter Lamb by John Greco

🌸 The Tale of the Three Trees by Angela Hunt

🌸 'Twas the Morning of Easter by Glenys Nellist @glenysnellist

🌸 Easter is Coming by Tama Fortner

🌸 The Sower by Scott James

➡️If you want the full list of these books PLUS a bunch more, comment "Risen" and it will come straight to your inbox.

👏🏽Do you have a favorite Easter book?

👋🏽For more Easter books, check out my #livingbooklegacy friend's posts:

@brittsbookbin
@alearningwewillgo
@treasuredhourbookshop
@thesewildknights
@agoodbookhunt
@homewithmytinies
@juiceboxhomeschool

✨ Who's joining me in April? ⤵️

When we voted for the March group read, Edenbrooke was the close runner-up, so I thought we would read it in April.

➡️ The Book: Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

*Swipe through to see the description of the book!

➡️There is also a cute novella that comes before this book called, The Heir to Edenbrooke. If you purchase the hard copy of the book, you can purchase them together or find it for a couple of dollars on Kindle.

👋🏽 I am hosting the group read along exclusively on the FABLE App! It is a fantastic platform to chat about the book as we read together!

How to participate:

.• Download the Fable app and create an account

• Join my book club

• Comment and engage along with others in the group as we read.

• Feel free to read at your own pace

If you'd like to join, comment "April" below and I'll send you all the details! 💕

I'm excited to read along with you! 🤗

✨ Who's joining me in April? ⤵️

When we voted for the March group read, Edenbrooke was the close runner-up, so I thought we would read it in April.

➡️ The Book: Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

*Swipe through to see the description of the book!

➡️There is also a cute novella that comes before this book called, The Heir to Edenbrooke. If you purchase the hard copy of the book, you can purchase them together or find it for a couple of dollars on Kindle.

👋🏽 I am hosting the group read along exclusively on the FABLE App! It is a fantastic platform to chat about the book as we read together!

How to participate:

.• Download the Fable app and create an account

• Join my book club

• Comment and engage along with others in the group as we read.

• Feel free to read at your own pace

If you'd like to join, comment "April" below and I'll send you all the details! 💕

I'm excited to read along with you! 🤗

✨ Do we have any books in common?

It was hard to choose only a few for each category, but it was also fun to try to narrow it down.

✨ Consider yourself tagged to post your own book choices for this challenge!

➡️ Thanks to Alison @reading.in.azaleawoods for the post idea and template.

Featured Authors:
@amanda_spins_stories
@connilyncossetteauthor
@bethbrower
@tessaafshar
@victorialynnauthor
@baehrlyreading

✨ Do we have any books in common?

It was hard to choose only a few for each category, but it was also fun to try to narrow it down.

✨ Consider yourself tagged to post your own book choices for this challenge!

➡️ Thanks to Alison @reading.in.azaleawoods for the post idea and template.

Featured Authors:
@amanda_spins_stories
@connilyncossetteauthor
@bethbrower
@tessaafshar
@victorialynnauthor
@baehrlyreading

🌱 Spring Picture Books 🌱

Today for #livingbooklegacy our book group is sharing favorite picture books for spring!

A few of our favorites:

🌱 Mell Fell by Corey Tabor

🌱 What Grew in Larry's Garden by Laura Alary

🌱 And Then It's Spring by Julia Fogliano

🌱 Dear Duck, Please Come by Sarah Mackenzie

🌱 Mortimor's First Garden by Karma Wilson

🌱 On Meadowview Street by Henry Cole

➡️To see my full book list, Comment "SPRING" for my free book list!

For more book suggestions, check out my friend's posts:

@playinghomeschool
@thesewildknights
@brittsbookbin
@juiceboxhomeschool
@agoodbookhunt
@alearningwewillgo
@letthemlovelearning
@livingbrighthomeschool

🌱 Spring Picture Books 🌱

Today for #livingbooklegacy our book group is sharing favorite picture books for spring!

A few of our favorites:

🌱 Mell Fell by Corey Tabor

🌱 What Grew in Larry's Garden by Laura Alary

🌱 And Then It's Spring by Julia Fogliano

🌱 Dear Duck, Please Come by Sarah Mackenzie

🌱 Mortimor's First Garden by Karma Wilson

🌱 On Meadowview Street by Henry Cole

➡️To see my full book list, Comment "SPRING" for my free book list!

For more book suggestions, check out my friend's posts:

@playinghomeschool
@thesewildknights
@brittsbookbin
@juiceboxhomeschool
@agoodbookhunt
@alearningwewillgo
@letthemlovelearning
@livingbrighthomeschool

🌱 Spring Chapter Books 🌱

Today we sat outside in the sunshine to read and it's my favorite thing! 💕

I put together a list of our favorite chapter books for spring. These are filled with heart-warming stories of life, adventure, and friendship. 🌸

👏🏽 I think one of our all-time favorite read alouds has been Charlotte's Web!

➡️ Comment "SPRING" and I'll send you the list of all of these shown PLUS more!

.

.

#readaloud #readalouds #chapterbooks #springbooks

🌱 Spring Chapter Books 🌱

Today we sat outside in the sunshine to read and it's my favorite thing! 💕

I put together a list of our favorite chapter books for spring. These are filled with heart-warming stories of life, adventure, and friendship. 🌸

👏🏽 I think one of our all-time favorite read alouds has been Charlotte's Web!

➡️ Comment "SPRING" and I'll send you the list of all of these shown PLUS more!

.

.

#readaloud #readalouds #chapterbooks #springbooks

✨ The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Series Review ✨

"There is no content like that of sitting at one's window, reading a book, with the sounds of birdcall and the promise of spring" - Emma M. Lion

By: Beth Brower

👋🏽Description:

The Year is 1883 and Emma M. Lion has returned to her London neighborhood of St. Crispian’s. But Emma’s plans for a charmed and studious life are sabotaged by her eccentric Cousin Archibald, her formidable Aunt Eugenia, and the slightly odd denizens of St. Crispian’s.

Emma M. Lion offers up her Unselected Journals, however self-incriminating they may be. Armed with wit and a sideways amusement, Emma documents the curious realities of her life at Lapis Lazuli House.

👏🏽My thoughts:

As one who rarely fangirls over books, it is hard for me to put into words how very much I adore this series. ☺️ Rarely do I complete series, because rarely have I ever completely connected to characters as if they are long-lost friends.

Reading the journals of Emma M. Lion is like glimpsing pieces of my own heart as she navigates loss, grief, and new friendships. Her quick wit is a breath of fresh air - I have laughed until I've cried.

As I have come to the end of book eight, I feel like I am a resident of St. Crispians and each of the many characters are warm friends.

I'm fully invested in watching Emma and her friend's lives unfold as they learn more about themselves and each other. I believe I will continue learning a few things about myself along with them.

I only hope I live long enough to read all 20ish books @bethbrower. 💕

Quick Takes:
⭐Rating 5/5 (Across books 2-8. Book one I only have four stars - it starts out slow). Definitely read books one and two together.
🤐 Language: Several uses of "dam_" in variations and "he__"
🔥 Spice: A few gentle kisses
👋🏽Content: Themes of loss, grief, war, physical abuse (in book eight).

➡️Have you read Emma M. Lion? If not....why not?? 🤭

** I had to keep the audio of my one-year-old daughter helping me make this video. She was a gem and handed me each book. I couldn't cover up her little "thank you's". 💞🥰

✨ The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Series Review ✨

"There is no content like that of sitting at one's window, reading a book, with the sounds of birdcall and the promise of spring" - Emma M. Lion

By: Beth Brower

👋🏽Description:

The Year is 1883 and Emma M. Lion has returned to her London neighborhood of St. Crispian’s. But Emma’s plans for a charmed and studious life are sabotaged by her eccentric Cousin Archibald, her formidable Aunt Eugenia, and the slightly odd denizens of St. Crispian’s.

Emma M. Lion offers up her Unselected Journals, however self-incriminating they may be. Armed with wit and a sideways amusement, Emma documents the curious realities of her life at Lapis Lazuli House.

👏🏽My thoughts:

As one who rarely fangirls over books, it is hard for me to put into words how very much I adore this series. ☺️ Rarely do I complete series, because rarely have I ever completely connected to characters as if they are long-lost friends.

Reading the journals of Emma M. Lion is like glimpsing pieces of my own heart as she navigates loss, grief, and new friendships. Her quick wit is a breath of fresh air - I have laughed until I've cried.

As I have come to the end of book eight, I feel like I am a resident of St. Crispians and each of the many characters are warm friends.

I'm fully invested in watching Emma and her friend's lives unfold as they learn more about themselves and each other. I believe I will continue learning a few things about myself along with them.

I only hope I live long enough to read all 20ish books @bethbrower. 💕

Quick Takes:
⭐Rating 5/5 (Across books 2-8. Book one I only have four stars - it starts out slow). Definitely read books one and two together.
🤐 Language: Several uses of "dam_" in variations and "he__"
🔥 Spice: A few gentle kisses
👋🏽Content: Themes of loss, grief, war, physical abuse (in book eight).

➡️Have you read Emma M. Lion? If not....why not?? 🤭

** I had to keep the audio of my one-year-old daughter helping me make this video. She was a gem and handed me each book. I couldn't cover up her little "thank you's". 💞🥰

✨ Storybook Treasuries ✨

Our family thoroughly enjoys storybook treasuries! One of our favorites right now is Brambly Hedge - those illustrations just pull you right into the story!

➡️ Benefits of treasuries:

💕 A fantastic way to build a home library on a budget! You're getting hours of stories with one purchase.

💕 Connecting to the characters. The longer you read about a character the more you connect with them and want to know more. This helps build interest in kids.

💕 Illustrations. Because treasuries are just compilations of picture books, they still include the amazing illustrations that bring them to life.

👋🏽 Comment "Treasury" below for a list of all of these PLUS a bunch more that we enjoy!!!

👏🏽 Does your family have a favorite treasury?

✨ Storybook Treasuries ✨

Our family thoroughly enjoys storybook treasuries! One of our favorites right now is Brambly Hedge - those illustrations just pull you right into the story!

➡️ Benefits of treasuries:

💕 A fantastic way to build a home library on a budget! You're getting hours of stories with one purchase.

💕 Connecting to the characters. The longer you read about a character the more you connect with them and want to know more. This helps build interest in kids.

💕 Illustrations. Because treasuries are just compilations of picture books, they still include the amazing illustrations that bring them to life.

👋🏽 Comment "Treasury" below for a list of all of these PLUS a bunch more that we enjoy!!!

👏🏽 Does your family have a favorite treasury?

✨ February Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

•The Worry Free Parent by Sissy Goff
•Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose
•Volumes 4 & 5 & 6 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower
•Endurance by Alfred Lansing

⭐ 4 Stars

• Burning of Rosemont Abbey by Naomi Stephens
• The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz
• Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin

⭐ 3 Stars

• Gospel Mom by Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler
• A Game of Hearts by Joanna Barker

👋🏽 What was your favorite read in February?

✨ February Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

•The Worry Free Parent by Sissy Goff
•Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose
•Volumes 4 & 5 & 6 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower
•Endurance by Alfred Lansing

⭐ 4 Stars

• Burning of Rosemont Abbey by Naomi Stephens
• The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz
• Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin

⭐ 3 Stars

• Gospel Mom by Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler
• A Game of Hearts by Joanna Barker

👋🏽 What was your favorite read in February?

✨ Feature Friday ✨

A series of posts where I feature new or favorite things we enjoy!

👏🏽 Since I was a teenager, I have read and enjoyed many of Lysa Terkuerst's books (I think I have read almost all of them)! ☺️ She has inspired me in my Christian walk and with her personal testimony.

➡️ Her newest release, "I Want to Trust You, but I Don't", focuses on "moving forward when you're skeptical of others, afraid of what God will allow, and doubtful of your own discernment".

I'm so excited to dig into this book!

✨ I love this quote: "Having your trust broken can be life altering, but it doesn't have to be life ruining."

👋🏽 Have you read any of Lysa's work?

.

.

Thank you to @frontgatem for my gifted copy of this book! As always, this review is honest and my own! 💕

✨ Feature Friday ✨

A series of posts where I feature new or favorite things we enjoy!

👏🏽 Since I was a teenager, I have read and enjoyed many of Lysa Terkuerst's books (I think I have read almost all of them)! ☺️ She has inspired me in my Christian walk and with her personal testimony.

➡️ Her newest release, "I Want to Trust You, but I Don't", focuses on "moving forward when you're skeptical of others, afraid of what God will allow, and doubtful of your own discernment".

I'm so excited to dig into this book!

✨ I love this quote: "Having your trust broken can be life altering, but it doesn't have to be life ruining."

👋🏽 Have you read any of Lysa's work?

.

.

Thank you to @frontgatem for my gifted copy of this book! As always, this review is honest and my own! 💕

✨ Two new releases I enjoyed in January ✨

👏🏽 The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz

This story is set in 1774 and follows our main character, Juliet Catesby, who lives on her family plantation in Virginia. Juliet discovers her father has arranged for one of his daughters to marry a business benefactor from Glasgow, Scotland. Juliet thinks it will be her younger sister.

➡️ Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 4/5
🤐 Language: Mild - uses of "by jove" and "Hades"
🔥 Spice: A few kisses and closed door romance
👋🏽Content: Death, loss, grief, mental illness

This was my first book by Laura Grant and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The story was set between Virginia and Scotland. It was fun to experience both settings within the same story!

The faith content was okay....it could've maybe been portrayed as a little more personal, instead of just quoted here and there.

Overall, I loved the cast of characters and the storyline was great!

👏🏽 Before the King by Heather Kaufman

"Joanna's wealthy family aspires to Herod's inner circle, but when her father's esteemed position in the Sepphoris Sanhedrin is threatened, her family harbors a dark secret. Entangled in the complexities of aristocratic life and an impending arranged marriage, Joanna is caught between her own desires and maintaining appearances. When tragedy strikes, Joanna grapples with a new future that challenges her sense of duty and hope for love."

Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 4/5
🤐 Language: None
🔥 Spice: Closed door
➡️ Content: Deaths of family members, chronic illness

I read Heather's first Biblical fiction book, Up from Dust, and really enjoyed it, so I was excited to read this next one.

Joanna's story was heartbreaking, yet full of themes of redemption, healing, and hope. I really enjoyed this book!

The reason I gave it four stars is because it felt like there were a few threads of the story left unresolved. It just fell flat in a few areas. Just personal preference.😊

👋🏽Have you read either of these?

.

Thank you to @bethanyhousefiction and @revellfiction for gifting me these books to review. As always, these reviews are honest and my own.

✨ Two new releases I enjoyed in January ✨

👏🏽 The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz

This story is set in 1774 and follows our main character, Juliet Catesby, who lives on her family plantation in Virginia. Juliet discovers her father has arranged for one of his daughters to marry a business benefactor from Glasgow, Scotland. Juliet thinks it will be her younger sister.

➡️ Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 4/5
🤐 Language: Mild - uses of "by jove" and "Hades"
🔥 Spice: A few kisses and closed door romance
👋🏽Content: Death, loss, grief, mental illness

This was my first book by Laura Grant and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The story was set between Virginia and Scotland. It was fun to experience both settings within the same story!

The faith content was okay....it could've maybe been portrayed as a little more personal, instead of just quoted here and there.

Overall, I loved the cast of characters and the storyline was great!

👏🏽 Before the King by Heather Kaufman

"Joanna's wealthy family aspires to Herod's inner circle, but when her father's esteemed position in the Sepphoris Sanhedrin is threatened, her family harbors a dark secret. Entangled in the complexities of aristocratic life and an impending arranged marriage, Joanna is caught between her own desires and maintaining appearances. When tragedy strikes, Joanna grapples with a new future that challenges her sense of duty and hope for love."

Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 4/5
🤐 Language: None
🔥 Spice: Closed door
➡️ Content: Deaths of family members, chronic illness

I read Heather's first Biblical fiction book, Up from Dust, and really enjoyed it, so I was excited to read this next one.

Joanna's story was heartbreaking, yet full of themes of redemption, healing, and hope. I really enjoyed this book!

The reason I gave it four stars is because it felt like there were a few threads of the story left unresolved. It just fell flat in a few areas. Just personal preference.😊

👋🏽Have you read either of these?

.

Thank you to @bethanyhousefiction and @revellfiction for gifting me these books to review. As always, these reviews are honest and my own.

✨ Thank you to @flycitymall for this gifted 5-tier rotating shelf! I was needing a new shelf for all of my TBR (to be read) books. And no, this definitely isn't all of them. 😉

This shelf was so easy to build, it only took me around 40 mins (with the help of my one-year-old), and it is super sturdy! ☺️ I love that it rotates and holds so many books (up to 100). The 5-tier shelf can also be made into four or three tiers instead.

➡️ I'd love to know, how many books are in your TBR? 😊

If you're looking for a beautiful bookshelf to help hold your books, comment LINK and I'll send you the details! 💕

✨ Thank you to @flycitymall for this gifted 5-tier rotating shelf! I was needing a new shelf for all of my TBR (to be read) books. And no, this definitely isn't all of them. 😉

This shelf was so easy to build, it only took me around 40 mins (with the help of my one-year-old), and it is super sturdy! ☺️ I love that it rotates and holds so many books (up to 100). The 5-tier shelf can also be made into four or three tiers instead.

➡️ I'd love to know, how many books are in your TBR? 😊

If you're looking for a beautiful bookshelf to help hold your books, comment LINK and I'll send you the details! 💕

🌟 March Picture Book List 🌟

Looking for some fun picture books to read this month?

I have created a free book list PLUS a printable calendar of some of our favorite books to read in March!

➡️ The printable calendar is a great tool to take along on your library trip!

This month we will be reading some of our favorite animal stories, historical picture books, and a few silly reads! 🤗 As always, the list includes several true stories - because those are always our favorites!

Comment "March" to receive the link straight to your DMs!

🌟 March Picture Book List 🌟

Looking for some fun picture books to read this month?

I have created a free book list PLUS a printable calendar of some of our favorite books to read in March!

➡️ The printable calendar is a great tool to take along on your library trip!

This month we will be reading some of our favorite animal stories, historical picture books, and a few silly reads! 🤗 As always, the list includes several true stories - because those are always our favorites!

Comment "March" to receive the link straight to your DMs!

✨ Who's joining me in March? ⤵️

Although the voting was close, this book had the most votes from you for the March group. I am so glad! I read this book once a year because it is so dear to my heart! 😊

➡️ The Book: Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes

*Swipe through to see the description of the book!

👋🏽 I am hosting the group read along exclusively on the FABLE App! It is a fantastic platform to chat about the book as we read together!

How to participate:

.• Download the Fable app and create an account

• Join my book club

• Comment and engage along with others in the group as we read.

• Feel free to read at your own pace

If you'd like to join, comment "March" below and I'll send you all the details! 💕

I'm excited to read along with you! 🤗

✨ Who's joining me in March? ⤵️

Although the voting was close, this book had the most votes from you for the March group. I am so glad! I read this book once a year because it is so dear to my heart! 😊

➡️ The Book: Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes

*Swipe through to see the description of the book!

👋🏽 I am hosting the group read along exclusively on the FABLE App! It is a fantastic platform to chat about the book as we read together!

How to participate:

.• Download the Fable app and create an account

• Join my book club

• Comment and engage along with others in the group as we read.

• Feel free to read at your own pace

If you'd like to join, comment "March" below and I'll send you all the details! 💕

I'm excited to read along with you! 🤗

✨ Do you have beginner readers who aren't quite ready for chapter books?

Bridge books (or early readers) are a fantastic way to build confidence in young readers as they navigate their way to the world of chapter books!

🥳 Bridge books are like short chapter books only with lots of illustrations, easy wording, and very short sentences.

We have so many favorite stories, but some of my son's favorites are:

⭐ Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel

⭐ Billy and Blaze by C.W. Anderson

➡️For a list of all of these and LOTS more, comment "BRIDGE" and I'll send it straight to your inbox!

👏🏽Do you have a favorite bridge book?

✨ Do you have beginner readers who aren't quite ready for chapter books?

Bridge books (or early readers) are a fantastic way to build confidence in young readers as they navigate their way to the world of chapter books!

🥳 Bridge books are like short chapter books only with lots of illustrations, easy wording, and very short sentences.

We have so many favorite stories, but some of my son's favorites are:

⭐ Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel

⭐ Billy and Blaze by C.W. Anderson

➡️For a list of all of these and LOTS more, comment "BRIDGE" and I'll send it straight to your inbox!

👏🏽Do you have a favorite bridge book?

✨ Transitioning from Picture Books to Chapter Books

Picture books will always hold a special place in my heart, and I feel like we should never truly stop reading them to our kids. 💕

However, the chapter book stage is also a LOT of fun and opens a whole new world of stories and adventure.

But how do we get there and help our children to be prepared to listen to longer stories?

Here are a few simple tips that have helped us:

🌟 Attention spans are something that need to be flexed gradually. Just like a muscle, we need to strengthen and stretch our attention spans with longer reading times and stories. Less screen time helps with this!

🌟 Reading picture books that are longer and use larger words. Kids can understand more than we give them credit for sometimes.

🌟 Using early readers (also known as "bridge" books). These help bridge the gap between picture books and chapter books.

🌟 Chapter books with LOTS of illustrations. We have been reading chapter books for years and we (yes, we😄) still enjoy illustrations.

✨ What helped you make this transition?

✨ Transitioning from Picture Books to Chapter Books

Picture books will always hold a special place in my heart, and I feel like we should never truly stop reading them to our kids. 💕

However, the chapter book stage is also a LOT of fun and opens a whole new world of stories and adventure.

But how do we get there and help our children to be prepared to listen to longer stories?

Here are a few simple tips that have helped us:

🌟 Attention spans are something that need to be flexed gradually. Just like a muscle, we need to strengthen and stretch our attention spans with longer reading times and stories. Less screen time helps with this!

🌟 Reading picture books that are longer and use larger words. Kids can understand more than we give them credit for sometimes.

🌟 Using early readers (also known as "bridge" books). These help bridge the gap between picture books and chapter books.

🌟 Chapter books with LOTS of illustrations. We have been reading chapter books for years and we (yes, we😄) still enjoy illustrations.

✨ What helped you make this transition?

✨Books about Compassion ✨

As I think about celebrating Valentine's Day this week, I have been processing what it means to share compassion to those around us. This was a fitting book topic! 💞

👏🏽Our absolute favorite books from this list:

💕 Boxes for Katje - Showing compassion to others

💕 The Long Road Home - A picture of how God shows compassion to us

👋🏽 Need a list? Comment "Compassion" below and I'll send you a link to my free book list that includes all of these titles PLUS more!

➡️ Do you have a favorite book featuring compassion?

For more book suggestions, check out my friend's posts:

@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@brittsbookbin

✨Books about Compassion ✨

As I think about celebrating Valentine's Day this week, I have been processing what it means to share compassion to those around us. This was a fitting book topic! 💞

👏🏽Our absolute favorite books from this list:

💕 Boxes for Katje - Showing compassion to others

💕 The Long Road Home - A picture of how God shows compassion to us

👋🏽 Need a list? Comment "Compassion" below and I'll send you a link to my free book list that includes all of these titles PLUS more!

➡️ Do you have a favorite book featuring compassion?

For more book suggestions, check out my friend's posts:

@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@brittsbookbin

✨ Do you have kids that still enjoy picture books but are ready for longer stories?

I love this stage because it is a prequel to many amazing stories and adventures with chapter books!! 💞

👏🏽 Long-form picture books (or picture novellas) still include my favorite thing - which is the illustrations! But the text is longer, deeper, and richer.

➡️ Need a list? I got you. Comment "LIST" and I'll send you the list of the books shown in this reel PLUS a lot more!!! 😍

✨Do you have a favorite longer picture book?

✨ Do you have kids that still enjoy picture books but are ready for longer stories?

I love this stage because it is a prequel to many amazing stories and adventures with chapter books!! 💞

👏🏽 Long-form picture books (or picture novellas) still include my favorite thing - which is the illustrations! But the text is longer, deeper, and richer.

➡️ Need a list? I got you. Comment "LIST" and I'll send you the list of the books shown in this reel PLUS a lot more!!! 😍

�✨Do you have a favorite longer picture book?

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CHAPTER BOOK LISTS

20210224_093341 (1)_edited.jpg

FIRST CHAPTER BOOKS

for ages 4-8

CHAPTER BOOKS

for ages 7-9

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CHAPTER BOOKS

for ages 10-12

ADVENT

FAMILY RESOURCES

BEGINNER
GRAPHIC NOVELS

for ages 4-8

BOOKS FOR
TEENS

CHRISTMAS
READ ALOUDS

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