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✨ 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?

✨ Friday Feature ✨

A series of posts where I share new releases or family favorites on Fridays. 😉

👏🏽The Book:

A Long Road Home by Sarah Walton and illustrated by Christina Yang

✨ The Synopsis:

In this creative retelling of the parable of the Prodigal Son, the youngest son, Wander, was willing to give up everything for his independence - including a relationship with his father and brother G Goodness.

With his father’s cash in hand, he left for the alluring towns of Perfection, Prosperity, and Popularity. Each new town brought a brief sense of happiness, but eventually, as the excitement wore off, he was overcome by a deepening sense of emptiness. It was then that Wander remembered his father’s words, “Wherever you go, my son, I want you to remember that I love you with a never-ending love.”

👋🏽 My Thoughts:

I have a soft spot in my heart for the parable that Jesus tells of the lost son. So when I saw this book, I knew I had to read it! 💞 It did not disappoint!

Filled with beautiful storytelling that is reminiscent of Pilgrim's Progress and illustrations that you don't want to stop enjoying, this book is brilliant from beginning to end. I found myself wishing there was a sequel so that I could continue reading! ☺️

⭐Suggested Ages:

Since this story is more of a long-form picture book (longer, deeper text), I would suggest it for ages 6-8.

➡️ Have you read this one?

** Thank you to @crosswaybooks for this gifted book. As always, the thoughts and content of this honest review are my own.

✨ Friday Feature ✨

A series of posts where I share new releases or family favorites on Fridays. 😉

👏🏽The Book:

A Long Road Home by Sarah Walton and illustrated by Christina Yang

✨ The Synopsis:

In this creative retelling of the parable of the Prodigal Son, the youngest son, Wander, was willing to give up everything for his independence - including a relationship with his father and brother G Goodness.

With his father’s cash in hand, he left for the alluring towns of Perfection, Prosperity, and Popularity. Each new town brought a brief sense of happiness, but eventually, as the excitement wore off, he was overcome by a deepening sense of emptiness. It was then that Wander remembered his father’s words, “Wherever you go, my son, I want you to remember that I love you with a never-ending love.”

👋🏽 My Thoughts:

I have a soft spot in my heart for the parable that Jesus tells of the lost son. So when I saw this book, I knew I had to read it! 💞 It did not disappoint!

Filled with beautiful storytelling that is reminiscent of Pilgrim's Progress and illustrations that you don't want to stop enjoying, this book is brilliant from beginning to end. I found myself wishing there was a sequel so that I could continue reading! ☺️

⭐Suggested Ages:

Since this story is more of a long-form picture book (longer, deeper text), I would suggest it for ages 6-8.

➡️ Have you read this one?

** Thank you to @crosswaybooks for this gifted book. As always, the thoughts and content of this honest review are my own.

This is such an impossible question! 🫣

But I had to ask. ☺️

Here are mine:

⭐Fiction: The Queen's Cook by Tessa Afshar
⭐Nonfiction: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
⭐Christian Nonfiction: Gracelaced by Ruth Chou Simons
⭐Christian True Story: Defying Jihad by Esther Ahmed

➡️What are yours?

This is such an impossible question! 🫣

But I had to ask. ☺️

Here are mine:

⭐Fiction: The Queen's Cook by Tessa Afshar
⭐Nonfiction: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
⭐Christian Nonfiction: Gracelaced by Ruth Chou Simons
⭐Christian True Story: Defying Jihad by Esther Ahmed

➡️What are yours?

✨ Illustrator Spotlight ✨

➡️Astrid Sheckles @astridsheckelsart

Today for #livingbooklegacy we are sharing about a favorite Illustrator.

I was recently introduced to Astrid's illustrations and have since enjoyed finding more of her work!! 💞

Her artwork is gorgeous and pulls you right into the pages of the story! 😍

Pictured here:

⭐ The Fish House Door
⭐ Hector Fox and the Giant Quest (definitely hoping to collect this whole series)

👏🏽 Who is your favorite Illustrator?

For more illustrator highlights check out my friend's posts:

@agoodbookhunt
@thisnewday_
@treasuredhourbookshop
@juiceboxhomeschool
@thesewildknights
@playinghomeschool

.

#astridsheckles #islandportpress #picturebooks #illustratorhighlight #illustratorsofinstagram

✨ Illustrator Spotlight ✨

➡️Astrid Sheckles @astridsheckelsart

Today for #livingbooklegacy we are sharing about a favorite Illustrator.

I was recently introduced to Astrid's illustrations and have since enjoyed finding more of her work!! 💞

Her artwork is gorgeous and pulls you right into the pages of the story! 😍

Pictured here:

⭐ The Fish House Door
⭐ Hector Fox and the Giant Quest (definitely hoping to collect this whole series)

👏🏽 Who is your favorite Illustrator?

For more illustrator highlights check out my friend's posts:

@agoodbookhunt
@thisnewday_
@treasuredhourbookshop
@juiceboxhomeschool
@thesewildknights
@playinghomeschool

.

#astridsheckles #islandportpress #picturebooks #illustratorhighlight #illustratorsofinstagram

✨ First Read Aloud Chapter Books ✨

This is one of my favorite book lists to share because I have so many amazing memories reading these to my boys!! 💕

These are perfect for ages 4-6 (but older ones may enjoy them as well)! 😊

➡️ If you want a free list of all of these PLUS a ton more, comment "FIRST" and I'll send you the list!!

👋🏽 What is one of your favorite first chapter books?

.

.

#chapterbooks
#firstchapterbook
#earlyreading #readaloud #readalouds #firstreaders

✨ First Read Aloud Chapter Books ✨

This is one of my favorite book lists to share because I have so many amazing memories reading these to my boys!! 💕

These are perfect for ages 4-6 (but older ones may enjoy them as well)! 😊

➡️ If you want a free list of all of these PLUS a ton more, comment "FIRST" and I'll send you the list!!

👋🏽 What is one of your favorite first chapter books?

.

.

#chapterbooks
#firstchapterbook
#earlyreading #readaloud #readalouds #firstreaders

✨ My favorite places to buy books ⤵️

• BookOutlet.com - this website isn't safe for me! 🫣☺️ But it is usually the first place I check for books.

• Pango Books - I really enjoy this app!

• Thriftbooks - After having a few rough experiences with their quality, I don't use them as much as I used to, but their customer service is spectacular!

• Don't sleep on eBay! - It is a fantastic resource to find books.

• Mercari and Amazon used books are a little more hit and miss, but I do utilize them from time to time.

• Amazon does run sales periodically throughout the year and often will have discounts on books. Creating a wish list on Amazon is an easy way to find sales you're looking for quickly!

• BookFinder.com - this website is a fantastic resource if you're searching for a specific book and don't feel like doing a ton of shopping around. It will find the places the book is available and you can compare cost, shipping, condition and more!

✨Bonus: Thrift stores!!! I love a good thrift haul! 💕

➡️ Where do you mostly shop for books?

.

#bookstagram #booksonabudget #homelibrary #buildyourlibrary #shopforbooks

✨ My favorite places to buy books ⤵️

• BookOutlet.com - this website isn't safe for me! 🫣☺️ But it is usually the first place I check for books.

• Pango Books - I really enjoy this app!

• Thriftbooks - After having a few rough experiences with their quality, I don't use them as much as I used to, but their customer service is spectacular!

• Don't sleep on eBay! - It is a fantastic resource to find books.

• Mercari and Amazon used books are a little more hit and miss, but I do utilize them from time to time.

• Amazon does run sales periodically throughout the year and often will have discounts on books. Creating a wish list on Amazon is an easy way to find sales you're looking for quickly!

• BookFinder.com - this website is a fantastic resource if you're searching for a specific book and don't feel like doing a ton of shopping around. It will find the places the book is available and you can compare cost, shipping, condition and more!

✨Bonus: Thrift stores!!! I love a good thrift haul! 💕

➡️ Where do you mostly shop for books?

.

#bookstagram #booksonabudget #homelibrary #buildyourlibrary #shopforbooks

📚 Spy any favorites? ⤵️

Five Favorite Picture Books we read and loved in January:

✨ Working Boats by Tom Crestodina

✨ The Man Who Didn't Like Animals by Deborah Underwood

✨ When Beavers Flew by Kristen Tracy

✨ The Knight and the Dragon by Tomie dePaola

✨ Togo by Robert J. Blake

➡️ What is a favorite picture book you read in January?

.

.

#picturebooks #picturebooksofinstagram #favoritepicturebook #readalouds #readaloudfamily #readaloud

📚 Spy any favorites? ⤵️

Five Favorite Picture Books we read and loved in January:

✨ Working Boats by Tom Crestodina

✨ The Man Who Didn't Like Animals by Deborah Underwood

✨ When Beavers Flew by Kristen Tracy

✨ The Knight and the Dragon by Tomie dePaola

✨ Togo by Robert J. Blake

➡️ What is a favorite picture book you read in January?

.

.

#picturebooks #picturebooksofinstagram #favoritepicturebook #readalouds #readaloudfamily #readaloud

✨January Reads ✨

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

⭐5 Stars

•The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon Cameron
•Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
•Volumes 2 & 3 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

⭐ 4 Stars

• Before the King by Heather Kaufman
• The Sentinels of Andersonville by Tracy Groot
• Volume 1 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion by Beth Brower

⭐ 3 Stars

• Collision of Lies by Tom Threadgill
• The Common Rule by Justin Earley

⭐ 2 Stars

• Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys - A low review due to the content and the audience it's intended for.

⭐ One book I wish I had stopped reading:

• The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon - I know everyone loves this book, and while I enjoyed the writing style, I did not enjoy the content.

➡️ I also had three DNFs (which isn't super uncommon for me as a mood reader, but these were for specific things):

•The Hidden Storyteller by Mandy Robotham - I didn't love that the main character was away from her husband and enjoying another man's company.

• Artifice and Bluebird by Sharon Cameron - Tons of swearing in the first and the second felt very empty to me.

👋🏽 What are you hoping to read in February?

.

.

#booksforwomen
#BookLoverMom
#BookishMom
#bookreviews
#christianfiction
#christianbookstagram

✨January Reads ✨

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

⭐5 Stars

•The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon Cameron
•Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
•Volumes 2 & 3 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

⭐ 4 Stars

• Before the King by Heather Kaufman
• The Sentinels of Andersonville by Tracy Groot
• Volume 1 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion by Beth Brower

⭐ 3 Stars

• Collision of Lies by Tom Threadgill
• The Common Rule by Justin Earley

⭐ 2 Stars

• Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys - A low review due to the content and the audience it's intended for.

⭐ One book I wish I had stopped reading:

• The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon - I know everyone loves this book, and while I enjoyed the writing style, I did not enjoy the content.

➡️ I also had three DNFs (which isn't super uncommon for me as a mood reader, but these were for specific things):

•The Hidden Storyteller by Mandy Robotham - I didn't love that the main character was away from her husband and enjoying another man's company.

• Artifice and Bluebird by Sharon Cameron - Tons of swearing in the first and the second felt very empty to me.

👋🏽 What are you hoping to read in February?

.

.

#booksforwomen
#BookLoverMom
#BookishMom
#bookreviews
#christianfiction
#christianbookstagram

❤️ Valentine's Day Books ❤️

👏🏽 Our Favorites:

• Somebody Loves You, Mr. hatch by Eileen Spinelli

• The Day it Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond

• A Village of Valentines by James Stevenson

• One Zillion Valentine's by Frank Morell

• Love Is by Diane Adams

• Little Blue Truck's Valentine by Alice Schertle

• A Friend Who Forgives by Dan Dewitt

• Valentine by Voice of the Martyrs

• The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross by Carl Laferton

• The Love Letter by Anika Denise

• The Valentine Bears by Eve Bunting

• One More Hug by Megan Alexander

➡️ Have you read any of these?

✨ For more book suggestions, check out the posts from my #livingbooklegacy friends:

@playinghomeschool
@thesewildknights
@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@letthemlovelearning
@livingbrighthomeschool
@homewithmytinies

❤️ Valentine's Day Books ❤️

👏🏽 Our Favorites:

• Somebody Loves You, Mr. hatch by Eileen Spinelli

• The Day it Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond

• A Village of Valentines by James Stevenson

• One Zillion Valentine's by Frank Morell

• Love Is by Diane Adams

• Little Blue Truck's Valentine by Alice Schertle

• A Friend Who Forgives by Dan Dewitt

• Valentine by Voice of the Martyrs

• The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross by Carl Laferton

• The Love Letter by Anika Denise

• The Valentine Bears by Eve Bunting

• One More Hug by Megan Alexander

➡️ Have you read any of these?

✨ For more book suggestions, check out the posts from my #livingbooklegacy friends:

@playinghomeschool
@thesewildknights
@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@letthemlovelearning
@livingbrighthomeschool
@homewithmytinies

✨ Spy any favorites? ⤵️

You asked, so I created a master list of favorite board books, which includes all of these and many more!! ☺️

If the time ever comes where my kids are too grown up for board books it's going to be hard to let go! 😭

➡️ Comment "Littles" to receive the list straight to your inbox!

📚 What are some of your favorite board books?

.

.

.

#boardbooks #boardbooksforkids #kidsbookstagram #kidsbooksofinstagram #booksfortoddlers #booksforbabies #readaloudfamily

✨ Spy any favorites? ⤵️

You asked, so I created a master list of favorite board books, which includes all of these and many more!! ☺️

If the time ever comes where my kids are too grown up for board books it's going to be hard to let go! 😭

➡️ Comment "Littles" to receive the list straight to your inbox!

📚 What are some of your favorite board books?

.

.

.

#boardbooks #boardbooksforkids #kidsbookstagram #kidsbooksofinstagram #booksfortoddlers #booksforbabies #readaloudfamily

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Favorite Spring Books Part One

Sonya
May 19, 2021
1 min read

Updated: Jun 1, 2022

This post may contain affiliate links, so I receive a small commission when you purchase through them. Thank you for supporting This New Day and our little family.

Tomorrow is the first day of SPRING!

So in celebration of this wondrous occasion, I decided it would be fun to share a few of our favorite spring picture books!

My list of books includes:

🌱 Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt by Kate Messner

🌱 The Forever Garden by Laurel Snyder

🌱 Grandpa's Garden by Stella Fry

🌱Spring for Sophie by Yael Werber

🌱When Will it be Spring? by Catherine Walters

🌱 Bird Builds a Nest by Martin Jenkins

🌱 The Garden, The Curtain & The Cross by Carl Laferton

Let me know what other books I should add to my spring line-up!

Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

Recommended Ages: 4 years and up

Valuable Lessons: The books in this post focus on springtime.

Questionable Content: None

Purchasing Options:

#thisnewday #springpicturebooks #firstdayofspring #springishere #carllafeeton #thegoodbookcompanyusa ##easterbooks #martinjenkins #catherinewalters #yaelwerber #jenhill #stellafry #laurelsnyder #katemessner #christophersilasneal #picturebooklineup #libraryhaul #christianbookhaul #preschoolbooklist #springbooklist

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