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The Christian Library Journal ispublished by Christian LibraryServices. Indexed in ChristianPeriodical Index. Addresscorrespondence toinfo@christianlibraryj.org, or toChristian Library Services, 85785Glenada Rd, Florence, OR 97439.Phone 541-991-2407. Copyright2011 by Christian Library Services.ChristianLibraryJ O U R N A LVolume XV No. 5November 2011ISSN 1 0 9 7–1 2 6 2www.christianlibraryj.orgThe purpose of the ChristianLibrary Journal is to providereviews, from a Christian point ofview, of both Christian and seculartitles for the Christian reader.Materials reviewed may reflect abroad range of Christian doctrinalpositions and do not necessarilyreflect the views of ChristianLibrary Journal.T A B L E O F C O N T E N T SARTICLEStill More Book Lists, part 3, by Donna W. Bowling ....................................................... 4Editor & PublisherNancy L. HeschEditorsCarol GehringerDeborah H. RabernCover, WebmasterMark L. WardR E V I E W SKey ................................................................................. 7Picture Books ................................................................................. 8Children’s Fiction .............................................................................. 13Children’s Nonfiction .............................................................................. 17Middle School Fiction .............................................................................. 22Middle School Nonfiction .............................................................................. 27High School Fiction .............................................................................. 31High School Nonfiction .............................................................................. 34Cover: Heart and mind : what theBible says about learning / RuthBeechick, published by Mott Media,2004. Used with permission.Adult Fiction .............................................................................. 36Adult Nonfiction .............................................................................. 48Professional .............................................................................. 58Index .............................................................................. 61CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 3 NOVEMBER 2011

Still More Book ListsPart 3Donna W. BowlingThese newer book selection resources are geared to the general market.A core collection for young adults / RollieJames Welch. (Teens @ the library series)New York: NealSchuman Publishers, 2011.LCCN 2010046693.PAP, 9781555706920, $80.0011.625 xvii, 417 p. ; 23 cm. + 1 CDROM (color ; 4 3/4 in.)PROF Rating: 5This new edition of A Core Collection for YoungAdults includes nearly 900 main entry titles,plus more than 500 other titles listed withinthose entries. At least two-thirds of these titleshave been published since 2000, while morethan a tenth are classic titles. Librarian RollieWelch has divided the book titles in thisannotated bibliography into thirteen topicalsections: Adventure tales, Cautionary novels,Classic literature, Coming-of-age stories,Fantasy novels, Graphic novels, Historicalfiction, Humorous novels, Inspirational fiction,Problem novels, Readable nonfiction, Romancenovels, and Science fiction. In each section,titles are arranged alphabetically by author’slast name, with the exception of the nonfictiontitles arranged by Dewey classificationnumbers. Each main entry includes: author,title, number of pages, and publicationinformation for various formats, followed by aparagraph-length annotation that may concludewith other related titles, appropriate gradelevels, location of reviews, and awards received.Review sources cited are Booklist, Kirkus,Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal, andVOYA. Seven appendixes include Newbery,Printz, and Alex awards, plus a few “Top Ten”listings, all with titles annotated in thisbibliography starred. In addition to the authorindex, the title index includes all “other titles”listed within the annotations. A CD-ROMincluded provides Excel files for authors, titles(main entries only), grade levels, and individualchapters.The annotations include both descriptive andcritical information. Particularly helpful are thecomments, as appropriate, for violence,language, and/or sexual content—frequentlywith assigned grade levels for “mature” seniorhigh students. Around one-third of the titlesincluded carry these comments. Other contentnoted includes alcohol and/or drug abuse,suicide, spirits or vampires in fantasy fiction,and homosexual romances. Although many ofthe included titles might fit in more than onetopical section, the only title listed in twodifferent sections (with varying annotations) isAusten’s Pride and Prejudice. When the titleindex for this resource is compared with certainChristian book selection tools [the less inclusiveThe Book Tree by McCallum & Scott, 2008; theCore Collection for Small Libraries, 1997, and theCore Collection for Children and Young Adults bySchwedt and DeLong, 2008; and the moreinclusive Honey for a Teen’s Heart by Hunt &Hampton, 2002] less than one-sixth of the titlesin this secular Welch resource also appear inany of those Christian selection aids. Whilesome chapters provide more useful titles forNOVEMBER 2011 4 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

Christian day schools or home schools thanothers, Welch’s well-annotated bibliographyoffers a valuable window into issues addressedin secular titles especially recommended forcurrent middle school and high school students.This high quality resource is definitelyrecommended where indicated by localpriorities and budgets.related activity. Among the pages of additionalfeatures of this handbook are suggestedconsiderations in book selection, listings ofyouth media awards for 2011, Freeman’sfavorites 2001-2010, “99 Exemplary PictureBook Biographies for Grades 2-6,” a number ofrelated websites, and pages of games anddrama activities related to this year’s chosenannotated titles.The winners! Handbook : a closer look atJudy Freeman's toprated children's booksof 2010 / Judy Freeman. Santa Barbara,Calif.: Libraries Unlimited, 2011.PAP, 9781598849776, $40.0028.162 244 p. : ill. ; 28 cm.PROF Rating: 4In Judy Freeman’s annual The WINNERS!Handbook, the author examines four highlyrespected annual lists of the best children’sbooks of the year: The American LibraryAssociation’s “Notable Children’s Books,”Booklist’s “Editor’s Choice,” Horn Book’s“Fanfare,” and School Library Journal’s “Best ofthe Year.” These lists often disagree with eachother. In fact, for 2010, only 2 titles out of 162titles appear on all four lists, and 79 titlesappear on only one list. To these lists, Freemanthis year adds 52 of her own additional choices.From this combined list, she has chosen 102titles for the WINNERS! annotated book list(designed for use in Freeman’s one-dayworkshop), but then includes those titles notchosen in a separate list. She also adds in aseparate list “Young Adult Books for Grades 7and Up That Were on This Year’s Lists.”As in earlier editions [cf. CLJ 15, 2 (2011)],entries in the 2010 WINNERS! bibliography aregrouped by genre and then arrangedalphabetically by author. Each entry includesFreeman’s own rating, “best” lists (see above)in which that book appeared, bibliographicinformation, descriptive annotation, a numberof earlier related titles, subjects, plus asuggested “germ,” or library or curriculumCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 5 NOVEMBER 2011

NOVEMBER 2011 6 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

Review Rating System*5 Outstanding ―a beautifully written book which impactssomeone’s life or thinking5 Excellent―well written, among the very best4 Good―definitely worth reading3 Fair―to be read for relaxation or to meet a need for information2 Poor―poor writing or editing; read only if very interested1 ―What can we say? Not much going for this title.Recommended with caution (may be used with any of the above ratings)–Notereservations within the review.Not recommended (may be used with any of the above ratings)–Note problems within thereview.With fiction, the rating includes the quality of plot development/pacing, characterization,sense of time and place, mood and atmosphere, dialogue, depth of perception, sensitivityof writing, use of humor. Be aware that some books are character driven, so characterdevelopment is extremely important. Others are plot driven, so character developmentisn’t as critical; plot is.Commonly used abbreviations in CLJ reviewsLCCN Library of CongressCataloging NumberC Canadian Library CatalogingNumberISBN International StandardBook NumberHBB Hardbound bookLGP Large print bookLIB Library editionLLB Loose-leaf bindingPAP Paperbound bookPBB Paper board bookSPR Spiral bound bookCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 7 NOVEMBER 2011

P I C T U R E B O O K SB O O K R E V I E W SBrave young knight / by Karen Kingsbury ;[illustrations by Gabrielle Grimard].Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zonderkidz, 2011.LCCN 2008053938.HBB, 9780310716457, $15.99E1 c. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 23 x 29 cm.PRI INT Rating: 3Karen Kingsbury pens another picture bookaimed at young children but easily enjoyed byolder children. Brave Young Knight, illustratedby Gabrielle Grimard, tells a story about aknight who decides to be honest, despite whatothers are doing.Meant to be a companion to The Princess andthe Three Knights, another children’s book byKingsbury where knights battle to prove theirlove for the princess, Brave Young Knightshows that true bravery is choosing to do theright thing, even when others are not.The young knight lives in the west village. Heis helpful, intelligent, strong, and kind. Thenthe king announces that the bravest knightwould be named as the new prince. When theyoung knight hears about his threecompetitors from the other villages, hebecomes discouraged. But his father remindshim the bravest knight is not always thefastest, the strongest, or even the smartest.The other knights take shortcuts to win eachcompetition. The king tallies up the score andrewards the bravest knight of all―the one whodidn’t cheat.Brave Young Knight shows that one doesn’thave tobe the fastest, strongest, or even thesmartest to be a winner. The beautiful picturescompliment the story. They are colorful andinviting; one feels drawn into the story. Thisbook, although aimed at young children, ages4-7 (publisher’s website) can be used witholder children to teach them about making theright choice, even when it might cost you thecompetition.Recommended for families, church libraries,Sunday schools, and school and publiclibraries.Carol GehringerAndi's fair surprise / Susan K. Marlow ;illustrated by Leslie Gammelgaard. (CircleC beginnings ; 3) Grand Rapids, Mich.:Kregel, 2011. LCCN 2010052936.PAP, 9780825441844, $4.99Andi's scary school days / Susan K.Marlow ; illustrated by LeslieGammelgaard. (Circle C beginnings ; 4)Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel, 2011. LCCN2010053234.PAP, 9780825441837, $4.99Fic74 p. : ill. ; 21 cm.PRI INT Rating: 3The Circle C Beginnings series offers newexperiences for a younger Andi Carter as shebegins to venture outside the safety of theranch.Everyone is excited about the state fair inAndi’s Fair Surprise. The whole family has toget dressed up and ride a train for hours justto get there. Then they stay in a hotel and eatin a restaurant, a new experience for her.Andi likes seeing the horses, but her favoriteanimals are the lambs. They remind her of thelost sheep in the Bible story. Cattle ranchersdon’t tolerate grass-destroying sheep, so thelambs are a novelty to her. When she wins aNOVEMBER 2011 8 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

PICTURE BOOKSlamb with her fair ticket, big trouble erupts ashe gets loose in the midway and wreaks havoc.Andi has to make a hard choice to do what’sbest for the lamb.Andi doesn’t want to start school in Andi’sScary School Days. In fact she puts all herenergy forth to resist the change. Because herbig sister Melinda has to sit with the olderstudents, Andi feels all alone. The rules are amystery at first, and she doesn’t understandhow to behave at school.Her new friend Cory brings a pet to keep Andientertained, but a loose lizard in the classroomgets her in serious trouble with the teacher.She’s supposed to put it outside, but insteadshe decides to run away from school. BrotherJustin shows up to rescue her, and Andi learnsthat school isn’t so bad after all.The awesome team of author Susan Marlowand illustrator Leslie Gammelgaard bring the1870’s to life. Each book is comprised of tenshort chapters interspersed with illustrationsthat teach about new experiences. Parents willfind helpful additional resources offered onthe website.Deborah H. RabernGeorge and Martha : full of surprises /written and illustrated by James Marshall.Boston: Houghton Mifflin Books forChildren, 2010, c1976.LIB, 9780547144214, $15.00E29 p. : col. ill. ; 24 cm.PS PRI Rating: 5George and Martha, that dear and somewhatditzy hippo duo, delight audiences withanother adventure in James Marshall’s Georgeand Martha: Full of Surprises. Originallyreleased in 1976 as George and Martha: OneFine Day, the three stories still hold in theirability to produce a laugh these many yearslater. Possibly a modern classic, George andMartha, show the meaning of friendshipthrough three simple stories that are theepitome of understated humor.James Marshall is hailed as a comic genius, andGeorge and Martha are proof of why this is sotrue. Who would think two hippos wouldprove so funny and so endearing? Each of thethree stories explore a different facet offriendship. With few words and simpleillustrations, Marshall is able to convey avariety of emotions. Martha’s parentheticaleyes twitch at George in vexation whileGeorge’s become pinpoints of apprehension.Each story is separate in its telling yet thesurprise ending binds them together withgentle hilarity. Though Marshall is no longerwith us, his books live on, and his George andMartha series are ready for anothergeneration’s appreciation.Pam WebbMama, is it summer yet? / Nikki McClure.New York: Abrams, 2010. LCCN2009023013.HBB, 9780810984684, $17.05E1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 27 cm.PRI Rating: 5It is still winter when a young boy and hismother start anticipating summer in NikkiMcClure’s Mama, Is It Summer Yet? Eachactivity―seeing new buds on the trees,CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 9 NOVEMBER 2011

PICTURE BOOKSplanting seeds, watching ducklings in apond―brings them closer to sunny days andsweet berries.This is a tender vignette inspired by theauthor’s own son asking the title question.“Not yet, my little one,” is her gentle response,lovingly repeated on each page as mother andson together look for nests, listen forswallows, and wait for warmer winds. Thesentiments will be familiar to anyone who hasever had cabin fever or entertained a childwho can’t wait for bare feet and picnics.The large, square size of the book and thesimple text will engage preschoolers, while thefolk-art quality of the images is rich andmature enough to please older children aswell. The author captures beautiful elementsof nature and many typical signs of thechanging seasons with her unique cut-paperillustrations. The soft pastel pages provide asoothing background for the bold blacksilhouettes; parent readers will appreciate theartistic detail and should look for the Artist’sNote on the last page that explains hertechnique.Nina DitmarThat's when I talk to God / Dan Morrow &Ali Morrow ; illustrated by Cory Godbey.Colorado Springs: David C. Cook, 2011.LCCN 2010942613.HBB, 9781434700186, $12.99E1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 26 cm.PS PRI Rating: 5Dan and Ali Morrow have written a wonderfulbook that explains prayer to young children. Weall know that children are full of questions abouteverything, and this book answers preschoolers’questions about their beginning relationship toGod.At bedtime, after Mom reads a story and the childis ready to pray, Mom explains that prayer canhappen at any time, not just before crawling intobed. This is a new concept for the child, whothinks about it as she goes to sleep.The next morning, as the child wakes up, shelooks for times to pray to God. Throughout theday, her mother helps her see situations whenprayer is the natural thing to do―times such asthanking God for the sunshine, thanking God forfriends, and asking forgiveness for a wrongattitude. Many situations during the day cause thechild to see the need for prayer, and as hermother points them out, she whispers a prayer toGod. Each time, the repetition of the title of thebook, That’s When I Talk to God, becomes aphrase that the child can repeat as the pages areturned.When it is bedtime again, the child recounts thetimes she talked to God. Then her motherexplains how God talks to her, opening anothernew concept for her to think about.Pictures along with each situation will help thechild to vocalize his or her own feelings. Onepicture is of a coach with the little girl. She had abad attitude during the game and she asks God toforgive her for that. Another shows a police carwith a red light and the child prays for peoplewho may have been hurt. Another time herbrother helps her to be brave as she climbs a highslide and she thanks God for making herunafraid.This delightful picture book is a refreshinganswer for parents who want to teach theirNOVEMBER 2011 10 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

PICTURE BOOKSchildren to pray in their own words. As the childlistens, the text will provoke conversation for theparent to further instruct their children in timeswhen they can call on God.The unnumbered pages are illustrated with softcolored drawings that are consistent throughout.A first or second grader could easily read thebook alone.Juanita Wier Nobleswonderful lesson for all. Colorful, full-pageillustrations capture George’s creativity andperseverance as he tries to make his bedroomdark, quiet, and “cave-like” enough forhibernation. The expressions on George’s faceare especially endearing. A short educationalactivity and ideas for a related craft areincluded at the end of the book.Nina DitmarCurious George : a winter's nap /adaptation by Marcy Goldberg Sacks andPriya Giri Desai ; based on the TV seriesteleplay written by Craig Miller. (Greenlight reader: Level 1) Boston: HoughtonMifflin Harcourt, 2010. LCCN 2010549523.PAP, 9780547235905, $3.99E22 p. : col. ill. ; 23 cm.PS (PRI) Rating: 5Curious George learns about hibernation andthinks it would be a great way to spend thecold winter. He tries to transform his bedroominto a cave and snuggles in for a long sleep,only to discover he has slept for only onenight! His discouragement disappears whenthe man in the yellow hat reminds him of allthe fun winter activities they can do together.Most children are familiar with H.A. Rey’scurious little monkey and his friend, the manin the yellow hat. This Level 1 “Green LightReader” is based on a PBS Kids Curious Georgeteleplay written by Craig Miller andrecommended for ages 3-6. The story is sweetand simple, and offers young children a basicexplanation of why animals hibernate. At theconclusion George learns to look for thepositive in a disappointing situation, aAll around the seasons / Barney Saltzberg.Somerville, Mass.: Candlewick Press,2010. LCCN 2009017518.HBB, 9780763636944, $11.99E1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 24 cm.PS PRI Rating: 5Familiar childhood activities are captured insimple rhyme and chronicled in All Around theSeasons. Friends play, families gather, andnature provides the ever-changing backdropfor the traditions and memories that defineeach season of the year.Barney Saltzberg’s lighthearted rhymes andwhimsical pencil and acrylic drawings are adelightful combination. All Around the Seasonsis a sentimental journey through long picniclunches (spring), creaky screen doors(summer), dizzy kites (fall), and gliding on ice(winter).Though recommended for ages 2-5 (backcover), readers of all ages will enjoy revisitingthe customary pleasures of each season. Therhyming verses are best read aloud, andchildren can watch for the small grey dog thatappears throughout the scenes. There is adepiction of Halloween (carved pumpkins,broomsticks and candy) and winter holidaysCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 11 NOVEMBER 2011

PICTURE BOOKS(reindeer and sleighs).Nina DitmarNOVEMBER 2011 12 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

B O O K R E V I E W SC H I L D R E N ’ S F I C T I O NThe case of the library monster / Dori HillestadButler ; pictures by Jeremy Tugeauand Dan Crisp. (The buddy files ; 5) Chicago:Albert Whitman, 2011. LCCN2010033301.HBB, 9780807509142, $14.99Fic134 p. : ill. ; 22 cm.PRI INT Rating: 5Buddy, the therapy dog, is on the job with allhis senses aquiver in The Case of the LibraryMonster. Mysterious happenings around theschool have Buddy scouting for a ghost. Beinga fair-minded detective-dog, Buddy considersthe reasons a ghost could be present, and otherthings that could be possible explanations.A rustling in the library bookshelves, followedby moving books, leads Buddy face to facewith a monster. He asks him where he camefrom, but gets no answer. The stranger has ablue tongue and smells like lettuce and sand.He scampers up the bookshelves while Buddypulls the books onto the floor in his eagernessto catch the intruder.Barking, running, and making a mess of thebooks gets Buddy in trouble. He doesn’t get tomeet the Reptile Guy or his friends, but thenext day several of the students read booksabout reptiles to Buddy. He starts to accumulatesome interesting facts.Dori Hillestad Butler has a winning series withThe Buddy Files. This charming entry lets ussee, hear, smell, and perceive through Buddy’ssenses. The student also learns the purpose fora therapy dog, and many facts about reptiles. Itteaches the reader to use a logical thoughtprocess with Buddy as he figures out answersto his questions.This ten chapter book is an enchanting rompwith a lovable dog. The illustrators, JeremyTugeau and Dan Crisp, provide additional humorwith their pen & ink drawings. The bookhas an appealing mix of fonts and icons. Buddy’slists appear in bold, comic font with pawsmarking the bullet points. Conversation withother animals and raised voices are designatedwith all caps. Six to nine-year-olds will be eagerto read more of these adventures.Deborah H. Rabern*Turtle in paradise / by Jennifer L. Holm.New York: Random House, 2010. LCCN2009019077.HBB, 9780375836886, $19.99Fic191 p. ; 22 cm.INT Rating: *5It’s 1935, and times are tough. Turtle Curry’smother takes work as a housekeeper wherechildren aren’t allowed, so Turtle travels southto live with relatives she has never met in KeyWest, Florida.In Turtle in Paradise, a spirited eleven-yearoldgirl lands in a close-knit “Conch” communityfilled with boy cousins, strange ways, hiddentreasure, and family secrets. While Turtlebides her time until she can live in a beautifulhome like a real family, she discovers thatwherever you live with people that love you—well, that’s a real home.Jennifer Holm, the author of this 2011 NewberyHonor book, masterfully weaves snappydialogue, authentic period details (ShirleyTemple, Necco Wafers, etc.), tantalizing fore-CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 13 NOVEMBER 2011

CHILDREN’S FICTIONshadowing, and down-home wisdom into thisstory inspired by her own Key West relatives.The characters are refreshingly imperfect.However, just like Turtle—who has a toughshell but a soft underbelly—they pull togetherand love each other.The author’s note shows period photos andfleshes out the historical setting. Jennifer Holmalso earned Newbery Honors for her Our OnlyMay Amelia and Penny from Heaven.Carol SattaJackson Jones : the tale of a boy, an elf, anda very stinky fish / written by Jenn Kelly ;illustrated by Ariane Elsammak. GrandRapids, MI: Zonderkidz, 2010. LCCN2010013101.HBB, 9780310720799, $12.99Fic267 p. : ill. ; 23 cm.INT Rating: 5Jenn Kelly writes a humorous adventure storyabout a boy who wants to be a hero for once inhis life. Great Aunt Harriet is always tellingJackson he needs to find his own story, andthat is what happens in Jackson Jones: The Taleof a Boy, an Elf, and a Very Stinky Fish.Jackson doesn’t have any friends, and hedoesn’t understand algebra. He loves baseballbut when he pitches, his team loses. Just once,he would like to be a hero who saves the day.When he falls into Great Aunt Harriet’s big, bighair (yes, into her hair!), he encounters a worldof trap doors, elves, and hairy spiders providingperilous danger to Jackson and his newfriend Meeka.Another new friend, Josh, tells him about theAuthor who created each one of us. Some readerswill recognize the Author’s description asthat of the Creator God. Josh tells Jackson each“one of us has our own story, full of excitementand adventure, sadness and joy,” and more importantly,we each have a choice—to be “thehero in our own story and succeed, or try to bethe hero in someone else’s story andfail” (p.172).This story will have readers laughing out loud,especially as they read the chapter titles. Thebook is silly, quirky, and entertaining with picturesand text keeping the readers hooked.Ilustrator Ariane Elsammak provides whimsicalpen and ink drawings that complement thestory. Jackson Jones is an excellent addition toChristian children’s literature, combining fantasyand science fiction to teach a lesson.Recommended for church, school, and publiclibraries, as well as families.Carol GehringerA ram for Isaac / Ginny Merritt ;[illustrations by Keith Neely.]. Greenville,S.C.: JourneyForth, 2009. LCCN2008055116.PAP, 9781591669838, $7.99FIC25 p. : col. ill. ; 24 cm.INT PRI Rating: 4A Ram for Isaac presents Genesis 22 fromyoung Isaac’s perspective. Abraham takes hisson and two friends on a journey to make anoffering to Jehovah. To the boys it is an adventure.On the third day Isaac and his father goahead to Mt. Moriah to prepare a stone altar.Abraham tells his son they must trust and obeyGod, even as he binds Isaac, places him on theNOVEMBER 2011 14 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

CHILDREN’S FICTIONaltar, and raises his knife. God calls to Abrahamnot to harm Isaac and a white ram caught inthe thicket is sacrificed in Isaac’s place.This Christian fiction chapter book is recommendedfor ages 6-7 (back cover) and certainlychildren of that age who have read Bible storiesalready know the account of Abraham andIsaac and their test of faith. It is quite anotherthing, though, to see Keith Neely’s full-page illustrationsof a smiling Isaac, happily carryingfirewood alongside his father, then lookingquizzically as the man he loves binds his wristswith rope. The boy’s thoughts are heartwrenching: “What is Father doing? Is he goingto kill me? Am I the sacrifice? No, NO!” Isaacknows he must trust Abraham just as Abrahamfully trusts God, but the boy is confused andfrightened. The message is strong, but the imagesmay be disconcerting for primary readers.Perhaps this is why author Ginny Merritt encouragesthe audience (presumably with a parentor teacher’s guidance) to “read the Scripturefirst and let God show you what He wantsyou to learn from the story.” A Ram for Isaacportrays Isaac as a playful boy of about 12.This book in its powerfully dramatized formatmay be more appropriate for readers closer tothat age.Nina DitmarEscape by night : a Civil War adventure /Laurie Myers ; illustrated by Amy JuneBates. New York: Henry Holt, 2011. LCCN2010030117.HBB, 9780805088250, $14.99Fic120 p. : ill., map ; 19 cm.INT Rating: 4Author of several children’s books, Laurie Myerspresents Escape by Night: A Civil War Adventureabout a brave boy and his dog. Inspiredby a true story, this work of historical fiction isa welcome addition to juvenile literature.As a wagon filled with wounded soldiers rollsthough town, a one-armed soldier drops hissmall notebook. Tommy, the son of a Presbyterianminister, sends his dog to recover it, andtries to locate the wounded soldier at themakeshift hospital, the former First PresbyterianHospital in Augusta, Georgia. When he findsthe soldier, Tommy realizes there is somethingdifferent about his new friend, Red.Red treats Henry, a slave working at the hospital,with respect, but won’t talk to anyone exceptHenry and Tommy. As Tommy and Redtalk, Tommy begins to question slavery and themeaning of friendship. Then Tommy discoversRed’s secret. He is surprised to discover thatthe soldier is actually a Yankee in disguise! WillTommy help him escape or turn him in? IfTommy turns him in, Red will be sent to a prisoncamp. What is the right thing to do?Myers introduces some serious issues (slavery,loyalty, and mercy) in a book written for 2 nd -4 thgrade readers. The book is well-written andwill make a good choice for a classroom novelread for elementary students.In the author’s note, Myers explains the storyof a young Woodrow Wilson inspired this book.As a boy, Wilson was known as Tommy, and hisfather was a Presbyterian minister whosechurch became a hospital during the Civil War.However, the book is fictional; it is only inspiredby Wilson’s early life.Recommended for public libraries, school li-CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 15 NOVEMBER 2011

CHILDREN’S FICTIONbraries, and church libraries.Carol R. Gehringer*In Grandma's attic / Arleta Richardson.(Grandma's attic series ; 1) ColoradoSprings: David C. Cook, 2011, c1974. LCCN2011922182.PAP, 9780781403795, $6.99Fic144 p. : ill. ; 20 cm.INT Rating: *5More stories from Grandma's attic / ArletaRichardson. (Grandma's attic series ; 2)Colorado Springs: David C. Cook, 2011,c1979. LCCN 2011922183.PAP, 9780781403801, $6.99Fic144 p. : ill. ; 20 cm.INT Rating: *5In Grandma’s Attic and More Stories fromGrandma’s Attic are collections of stories toldto Arleta Richardson by her grandmother, Mabel.As she was growing up in the 1930’s, Arletaspent invaluable hours with her grandmother.Grandma Mabel’s stories accompanymany of the items in her home. From a sweet,small button in the button jar to a scrap of fabricfrom one of great grandmother’s aprons,delightful tales ensue.Arleta Richardson expertly transports herreaders into a time when horses pulled buggies,dishwasher meant the person washing thedishes and throwing out the dirty water, andbeing neighborly might even mean openingone’s home to a stranger. The setting, a smallfarm in Michigan in the late 1800’s, offers thebackdrop for these tales of the past. Since thecharacters are true people, they are round,growing in each story. Many of the situations inwhich Mabel finds herself as a young girl offerhumor, and some include a memorable lessonalong with the story. For example, after one hilariousstory about the day Mabel and her bestfriend, Sarah Jane, donned hoop skirts undertheir calico dresses, went to church, sat downand blushed furiously as their hoops flew up,Mabel tells her granddaughter, “…many timeswhen I am tempted to be proud, I rememberthat horrid hoop skirt and decide that a proudheart is an abomination to the Lord!” p16, InGrandma’s AtticI read the Grandma’s Attic books as a child andeagerly awaited the next book order, hoping tofind another. After re-reading the books for review,I find the stories just as touching as anadult. I contacted my childhood best friend tosee if she remembered them. Not only werethey some of her favorite stories, but now shehas shared them with her girls, and anothergeneration has come to love and enjoy Mabeland her girlhood.Kristi WolcottNOVEMBER 2011 16 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

B O O K R E V I E W SC H I L D R E N ’ S N O N F I C T I O NThe Lord's Prayer / by Rick Warren ;illustrated by Richard Jesse Watson. (Themaster illustrator series) Grand Rapids,Mich.: Zonderkidz, 2010. LCCN2009037508.HBB, 9780310710868, $16.99226.9 1 c. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 29 cm.PRI Rating: 5The Lord’s Prayer, beautifully illustrated byRichard Watson, contains only a few words foundin Matthew 6:9-15, when Jesus taught hisdisciples how to pray.Children of all races dressed in their nativecostumes open the first pages. The pictures,wonderfully intricate in detail, call for closeinspection. Both the words and the illustrationsdraw the reader into the prayer our Lord taught.Each phrase from the Lord’s prayer is printed ona double page, along with large, detailed artworkthat compels the reader to look more closely. Asthe prayer continues, the pictures keep the readerengaged. The illustrator shows pictures of youngones from many ethnic backgrounds throughoutthe book’s pages, as well as on the inside covers.Rick Warren, pastor of the Saddleback Church inOrange County, California, and a well-knownChristian leader who wrote the best-sellingPurpose Driven Life, provides an additionalcommentary. In Dr. Warren’s full-page comment,he emphasizes God’s love for the simple prayersof children. Author Richard Watson relates hispersonal feelings for this simple prayer. He hopesthat today’s children will experience that samelove for the Lord’s Prayer that he felt as a boy.This book is sure to be a favorite for children asthey examine the images depicting God’s love forchildren of all races and nationalities as theyrecite the Lord’s Prayer. The unnumbered pagesare thick, ready for a child’s fingers. The finalpage contains the Lord’s Prayer, presented in itstotality, for review. This will be a wonderfuladdition to any child’s collection. RichardWatson’s love for children and for God’s word isevident.Juanita Wier Nobles*God's mighty acts in salvation / StarrMeade. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books,2010. LCCN 2010009996.PAP, 9781433514012, $10.99227 87 p. ; 23 cm.INT (All ages) Rating: *5God's mighty acts in creation / StarrMeade. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books,2010. LCCN 2010009997.PAP, 9781433513985, $10.99231.7 109 p. ; 23 cm.INT (All ages) Rating: *5The God’s Mighty Acts series by Starr Meadeincludes devotional books focusing on thepower of God. The books may be used as anindependent read for children, or a family read-aloud. Each devotion begins with a Scripturerelating to a topic. The body of the devotionexplains the Scripture and gives otherScripture references for support. Eachdevotion ends with a section titled “As For Meand My House.” This section contains acombination of food-for-thought, additionalreading suggestions, prayer starters, andactivities designed to reinforce the lesson.God’s Mighty Acts in Creation is designed toprompt worship for our Creator God. The bookcontains 45 devotions, which systematicallyCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 17 NOVEMBER 2011

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONwork through the days of creation. Two mainthemes are present: creation displays thewisdom of God, and God owns His creation.Therefore, in each subset of devotions bycreation day, the reader sees how God uniquelydesigned his work. Not only does this themepromote praise to God for his amazingcreativity, but it also refutes the notion thatsuch designs happened accidentally through anevolution process. The theme of God owninghis creation is displayed through Scripturesshowing how certain creations acted contraryto design. Because God owns His creation, Hecan change its rules on command.God’s Mighty Acts in Salvation leads toward aclear understanding of the gospel of JesusChrist. The book contains 40 devotions basedon themes from Paul’s epistle to the Galatians.Meade’s message is one of salvation by gracethrough faith in Christ alone. She writesconversationally and uses easy-to-understandillustrations in order for children tocomprehend the danger of counting on goodworks to please God. The biblical conceptsbuild on one another as Meade continuesthrough Galatians. From understanding theauthority of Scripture, to the final call to boastin nothing but Christ crucified, this devotionalbook repeatedly turns the reader to ouramazing Savior.Amy ArensI wanted to know all about God / byVirginia L. Kroll ; illustrated by Debra ReidJenkins. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans,2010, c1994. LCCN 93037382.Board, 9780802853806, $8.00231 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 29 cm.PRI Rating: 4I Wanted to Know All About God is a largecolorful picture book that discusses tangiblesigns of God by engaging the senses. What thechild sees, smells, feels, wonders, and hearsdemonstrates God’s presence through natureand people. God’s character is reflected in thegentleness of butterflies, the glitter ofsnowflakes, the sounds of the ocean, and thehug of a Grandma. The child experiences theart of a spider web, sharing with a friend, andunderstanding that we find God wherever weare. The final lesson that God likes to visit eachindividual’s heart paves a path for salvation.Children’s author Virginia Kroll inviteschildren and parents to discover God in HisCreation. This twenty-eight page volume is adelight for the eyes. Deborah Reid Jenkinsprovides glorious paintings in double-pagespread for each of Mrs. Kroll’s fourteen shortstatements. Her realistic portrayals depictchildren from many ethnic groups, so a childfrom any cultural background will feelincluded.This book is appropriate for reading aloud. Thetext and pictures provide a staging area forconversation between the parents and theirchildren ages 5-8. Each page provides an ampleopportunity to consider how little onesexperience the presence of God. They will wantto linger over each illustration and think of theother ways they sense God. The paintings andtext combine for dynamic, interestingencounters to help young ones understandmore about God. Virginia Kroll and DeborahJenkins have a winning combination. Anylibrary would be proud to display this beautifulNOVEMBER 2011 18 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONpublication.Deborah H. RabernF is for fireflies : God's summertimealphabet / by Kathyjo Wargin ; illustratedby Linda Bronson. Grand Rapids, Mich.:Zonderkidz, 2011. LCCN 2008044102.HBB, 9780310716631, $15.99231.7 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 24 x 29 cm.PS PRI Rating: 4Kathy-jo Wargin adds another seasonalalphabet book with F Is For Fireflies: God'sSummertime Alphabet. Similar to her first book,K Is For Kite: God's Springtime Alphabet, Warginprovides a rhymed text which explores aparticular season, weaving in the exultationand praise for God’s creation. For instance, theletter "G" is for "Garden." The accompanyingtext reads: "God made the Gardens, and wehelp them grow, weeding and watering rowafter row."As in the first book, the rhyming text is notperfect, but does capture the joy andappreciation for one of the favored seasons ofthe year. The bold painted illustrationsrendered by Linda Bronson are lively, yetalmost overshadow the text instead ofcomplementing it. The illustrations of multiculturalchildren make this a book easilyshared with in a variety of settings andaudiences. It is a reminder and worthwhilecelebration of how special summer is,especially as a time of sharing moments withfamily members.Pam WebbFix-it and forget-it kids cookbook : 50favorite recipes to make in a slow cooker /Phyllis Pellman Good ; Rebecca GoodFennimore, photography editor. (The fix-itand forget-it series) Intercourse, Pa.: GoodBooks, 2010. LCCN 2010021045.HBB (spiral), 9781561487042, $19.99641.5 128 p. : col. ill. ; 26 cm.INT Rating: 3Bestselling author Phyllis Good presentsanother cookbook in her Fix-it and Forget-itseries, this one aimed at children.While some recipes could be made in themicrowave or the stovetop, Pellmandeliberately chose the slow cooker. The bookstarts off with a welcome to the kitchen, a noteto adults who cook with kids, tips on using theslow cooker, how to follow a recipe, learning tomeasure, equipment list, and safety tips.The second part includes the fifty recipes,divided into breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner,and dessert. All the recipes have photosshowing the finished product.A glossary and index are included in the backmatter. A cookbook diary is included for theyoung cook to record when they tried a recipeand how it turned out.The colorful photos enhance the spiral boundcookbook, allowing it to lay flat. Many havesmall sidebars with recipe tips. Each recipe haseasy-to-follow instructions, listing the requiredingredients and necessary equipment.This cookbook is an excellent way to get youngcooks started. It shows them that a slow cookercan be used for any portion of the meal. Whilesome of the recipes are not as healthy as theycould be, it is a good collection of recipes thatCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 19 NOVEMBER 2011

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONmight appeal to kids and encourage them to getcooking. However, they will need other recipesif they want to make an entire balanced meal. Ifthe main dish is already cooking in the slowcooker, the slow cooker cannot be used for thedessert. In spite of this, this cookbook is awelcome addition to cookbook literature.Recommended for public libraries and schoollibraries.Carol R. GehringerF is for friendship : a quilt alphabet /written by Helen L. Wilbur ; illustrated byGijsbert van Frankenhuyzen. Ann Arber,MI: Sleeping Bear Press, 2011. LCCN2010034398.HBB, 9781585365326, $16.95746.46 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 27 x 29 cm.INT (PRI) Rating: 5Helen L. Wilbur’s F is For Friendship is part ofthe Alphabet Books series. The book describesthe past and present history of the art ofquilting across the globe as well as thefriendships that quilting fosters. Quilting isdiscussed as both an art form, means ofconveying a story or history as well as a usefulhousehold skill. Each page of the bookincorporates a letter of the alphabet andincludes color illustrations by Gijsbert vanFrankenhuyzen. Each letter’s page includes ashort verse in rhyme describing the scene aswell as a much longer and more detaileddescription on the side bar. Topics for eachletter’s page include types of quilts, patterns,fabrics as well as quilts as history and art.A common element in the Alphabet Booksseries is that the books are appropriate for awide range of elementary school ages. Thepictures reinforce the story and both are ofexcellent quality. Colorful hand drawnillustrations and short rhyming verses on eachpage make this title suitable for read aloudsettings as well as for engaging youngerchildren. Moreover, older children willadditionally appreciate the more detailedinformation and descriptions on each page.Wilbur’s book also creates a strong tie-in forhistory, world cultures, and social studieslessons as it incorporates aspects of thehistorical and social significance of quiltingworldwide. F is For Friendship will pique theinterest of even those who are unfamiliar withquilting.Elissa RizzoA wizard from the start : the incredibleboyhood & amazing inventions of ThomasEdison / Don Brown. Boston: HoughtonMifflin, 2010. LCCN 2010279273.HBB, 9780547194875, $17B or 621.31 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 27 cm.INT Rating: 3Don Brown focuses on Thomas Edison’s earlylife in A Wizard from the Start. His mothertaught him at home after a teacher labeled himas addled because of his daydreaming. Tomread on a wide variety of subjects, engaged inchemistry experiments in the basement, andlearned the value of hard work.At the age of twelve, he worked fourteen hoursa day on a commuter train to Detroit, sellingnewspapers and other items. He continuedchemistry experiments on board, setting fire toNOVEMBER 2011 20 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONthe baggage car, provoking the anger of arailroad official who boxed his ear. By the ageof fourteen, the young entrepreneur wasprinting his own newspaper from salvagedequipment discarded by a Detroit print shop.Several hundred subscribers paid eight cents amonth for the budding journalist’s efforts.Award-winning author and illustrator DonBrown offers a thirty-two page picture bookillustrated with large delicate watercolors ofThomas Edison’s boyhood. He covers Tom’sfascination with the telegraph and his career asa traveling telegraph operator, before theinventor’s fervor kicks in full time.Mr. Brown emphasizes Tom’s pursuit ofknowledge through reading, and homeschooled children may be pleased to identifywith the eminent inventor who rose from theranks of the home schooled. He speculatesbriefly on Edison’s early loss of hearing, butdoesn’t elaborate on how it affected Tom’swork or perception of the world around him.The author’s note on the last page givesadditional perspective on Edison’s overallcontributions and mentions his idea thatnature is the “Supreme Intelligence that rulesmatter.” This book is an adequate introductoryresource for ages eight to ten.Deborah H. RabernCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 21 NOVEMBER 2011

M I D D L E S C H O O L F I C T I O NB O O K R E V I E W SA horse to love / by Marsha Hubler.(Keystone Stables ; 1) Grand Rapids, Mich.:Zonderkidz, 2009. LCCN 2008045620.PAP, 9780310717928, $6.99Fic137 p. : ill., map ; 22 cm.On the victory trail / by Marsha Hubler.(Keystone Stables ; 2) Grand Rapids, Mich.:Zonderkidz, 2010. LCCN 2008053937.PAP, 9780310717935, $6.99Fic136 p. : ill., map ; 22 cm.Southern belle's special gift / by MarshaHubler. (Keystone Stables ; 3) GrandRapids, Mich.: Zonderkidz, 2009. LCCN2009001809.PAP, 9780310717942, $6.99Fic126 p. ; 22 cm.Summer camp adventure / by MarshaHubler. (Keystone Stables ; 4) GrandRapids, Mich.: Zonderkidz, 2009. LCCN2009005603.PAP, 9780310717959, $6.99Fic128 p. ; 22 cm.Leading the way / by Marsha Hubler.(Keystone Stables ; 5) Grand Rapids, Mich.:Zonderkidz, 2009. LCCN 2009010793.PAP, 9780310716966, $6.99Fic122 p. : ill., map ; 22 cm.Blue ribbon champ / Marsha Hubler.(Keystone Stables ; 6) Grand Rapids, Mich.:Zonderkidz, 2009. LCCN 2009013981.PAP, 9780310717973, $6.99Fic112 p. : ill., map ; 22 cm.Whispering hope / by Marsha Hubler.(Keystone Stables ; 7) Grand Rapids, Mich.:Zonderkidz, 2010. LCCN 2009023909.PAP, 9780310716915, $6.99Fic144 p. ; 22 cm.The long ride home / by Marsha Hubler.(Keystone Stables ; 8) Grand Rapids, Mich.:Zonderkidz, 2009. LCCN 2009033133.PAP, 9780310716921, $6.99Fic144 p. ; 22 cm.MS Rating: 4In A Horse to Love, thirteen year-old SkyeNicholson, a troubled foster child, is facing achoice―Chesterfield Detention Center, orfoster care with Eileen and Tom Chamber,owners of Keystone Stables. Starting withcounseling at Maranatha Treatment Center,and then at her new home at the stables, Skyehas every chance at a better life.In On the Victory Trail, Skye loves her newhorse, Champ, and finally feels at home withMr. and Mrs. Chambers. She’s learning to trustGod, and getting to know Jesus. Her new foundfaith is about to be tested when an old schoolfriend shows up at the stables with her owntroubles. Sooze is sick, and needs real help.Instead, she just wants to run the other way.In Southern Belle’s Special Gift, a runaway inthe midst of winter, hiding in the barn, findsher way to Keystone Stables. Tanya, with abackground similar to Skye’s, has a badattitude and is determined to not fit in. TheChambers’ and Skye, have their hands full. Thatis until Tanya meets Belle, a pregnant mare,with her own problems. God uses Belle inTanya’s life for some remarkable changes.In Summer Camp Adventure, Mr. and Mrs.Chambers bring Skye to a Christian camp forthe summer to help out with the campers. Skyeis partnered with eight-year-old Jonathan whois deaf, stubborn, and doesn’t like to listen toanyone. That is until he discovers how much heloves horses―and Skye―and does everythingNOVEMBER 2011 22 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

MIDDLE SCHOOL FICTIONhe can to get her attention.In Leading the Way, blind Katie Thomas iscoming for the summer to Keystone Stables.Skye is determined to understand being blindso she can help Katie, whose parents aretalking about divorce. Skye wants to do herbest for Katie and God. Katie just wants herparents to stay together.In Blue Ribbon Champ, Skye at thirteen is stilllearning to be the teenage role-model atKeystone Stables, and the Christian shebelieves God is growing her into. Sometimesit’s not so easy. Joey Klingerman is spendingthe summer at the stables, and he sees Skye ashis personal summer pal. Skye has otherplans―like the Snyder County Horse ShowIn Whispering Hope, the Chambers and Skyeare just finishing their last days at the StateHorse Show, when Skye stumbles across arunaway wielding a knife, and threatening touse it against her. Once again, the Chambersoffer the culprit the stables as way for her toget her life together. This is Wanda, the wannabepro pool player. At the stables she evensleeps on top of the pool tables.In The Long Ride Home, while stopping at asmall diner in Charleston, S.C., the Chambers,Morgan, and Skye meet a woman who takesthem all by surprise. For many years Skye hasbeen wondering about her parents and anyother family she might have, and this woman,Millie, claims to know who Skye is. It is a longride home for everybody, but there are manysurprises yet to be learned.Keystone Stables, is a sweet series which willengage readers while showing the love ofhorses and the love of God. After the story, theauthor includes a plethora of information onhorses that will be interesting to anyonereading this series. Each book is a stand-alonestory, yet, readers will enjoy the entire set ofeight.Debby WillettThe way of the wilderking / JonathanRogers. (The wilderking trilogy ; 3)Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 2006.LCCN 2007271966.HBB, 9780805431339. OP; buy usedFic225 p. ; 20 cm.MS INT (HS) Rating: 5In The Way of the Wilderking by JonathanRogers, Aidan Errolson’s brother braves theFeechiefen Swamp to warn him that KingDarrow is preparing to send 1,000 soldiers intothe swamp to capture him. To prevent theneedless death of those soldiers, Aidanabandons his refuge in the swamp. From a safedistance, Aidan tries to demonstrate to thejealous king that he remains a loyal subject, butin vain. During Aidan’s three years hiding inthe swamp, some citizens of Corenwald callingthemselves “Aidanites” have been training tooppose the king. Aidan wants no part in theefforts of others to bring about the fulfillmentof the prophecy that he is the promisedWilderking. So as he discourages any treasonfrom the Aidanite bands, Aidan and his feechiefriend Dobro travel to join his family in ahidden canyon refuge.This third and final volume in The WilderkingTrilogy follows the author’s earlier The Bark ofthe Bog Owl [CLJ 10, 3 (2005)] and The Secret ofthe Swamp King [CLJ 10, 4 (2005)]. In severalCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 23 NOVEMBER 2011

MIDDLE SCHOOL FICTIONpoints, the adventures of young Aidan parallelelements of the life of the biblical David, butwith significant differences in both plot andsetting. The feechiefolk on the imaginary islandof Corenwald would fit right into the terrainand climate of the author’s native state ofGeorgia during the years of its early settlers.Varied real and appealing characters growthrough their experiences in an action-filledplot with some surprising twists. Themes forpossible discussion include integrity, loyalty,duty to country, respect for other peoplegroups, sacrificial unconditional love withforgiveness and mercy, and faithfulness to theOne true God. This entire fantasy series ishighly recommended for public, school, church,and home libraries.Donna W. BowlingKaty's homecoming / Katy Lambrightseries ; 3. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan,2011. LCCN 0.PAP, 9780310722878, $9.99Fic202 p. ; 22 cm.MS (HS) Rating: 5Kim Vogel Sawyer continues her contemporaryseries featuring a teen living in a smallMennonite community who is given the chanceto attend pubic school. Katy struggles tomaintain her faith as she interacts with teensraised in a secular world.In Katy’s Homecoming, Katy has just learned toembrace her dad’s new wife as her new motherwhen she is faced with her biggest challengeyet. Katy is elected to homecoming court, anevent any teen would welcome! Rumorscirculate that Bryce, the boy she has a crush on,might even ask her to attend with him. Whatwould be more perfect?But Katy’s Old Order Mennonite communityforbids dancing, fancy dresses, and makeup.Since Bryce isn’t Mennonite, her dad might notallow her to go with Bryce. But he allows Katyto make the decision whether or not to attendthe homecoming ceremony and the dance, aswell as a forensics meet the following day.When one of her school friends loans her abeautiful fancy dress for the homecomingdance, Katy must make several decisions. Doesshe abandon her principles and attend this onespecial night, or stick to her convictions?Whatever she decides will have an impact onothers.Teens relate to Katy as she deals with herdilemma without losing face with her friendsor compromising her personal values. Althoughmany teens may not understand the standardsof a Mennonite community, they can relate tobeing an outsider and trying to fit in. Katy’sHomecoming also includes discussionquestions to help the reader connect Katy’schallenges with their own.Recommended for middle school and teencollections in public and school libraries,especially for girls ages 10-16.Carol R. GehringerMoon over manifest / Clare Vanderpool.New York: Delacorte Press, 2010. LCCN2009040042.HBB, 9780385738835, $16.99Ficviii, 351 p. ; 22 cm.MS (INT) Rating: 5NOVEMBER 2011 24 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

MIDDLE SCHOOL FICTIONTwelve-year-old Abilene Tucker is contentriding the rails with her Daddy, but he sendsher to Manifest, Kansas, to spend the summerof 1936 with folks from his youth. While there,Abilene lives with the interim Baptist ministerand spies around town with two new friends,Lettie and Ruthanne.Abilene is puzzled about her father’sconnection to the town, so she searches formention of him in old newspaper clippings andstories told by Miss Sadie, the local fortuneteller.Although the main story of Moon Over Manifesttakes place in 1936, flashbacks to the years1917-1918 touch on prohibition, WWI,immigration, orphan trains, Spanish influenza,the KKK, and the unfair treatment of coal mineworkers.The author, Clare Vanderpool, has createdsomething akin to a Richard Peck novel withlaugh-aloud humor, “down-home” sayings,memorable characters, and tight-knitcommunity relationships. On a deeper level,she infuses the story with powerful values suchas hard work, patriotism, care for thehomeless, neighborliness, etc.Perhaps the author tried to accomplish toomuch in one book—weaving in many sub-plotsand mysteries, many historical topics, etc. Also,the frequent interjection of newspaperclippings, personal letters, and flashbacksmakes the story a bit choppy.Although Abilene visits the local “medium,diviner, fortune-teller, spirit-conjurer” to getinformation about her Daddy, the Hungarianimmigrant uses that persona as a ruse. Inreality, she functions mainly as a natural healerand listening ear for folks in the community.There are several references to the Bible. All inall, this is a complex yet enjoyable story thatteaches a lot of history. It won the 2011Newbery Medal.Carol SattaPeace, Locomotion / Jacqueline Woodson.New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2009.HBB, 9780399246555, $15.99Fic134 p. ; 22 cm.MS Rating: 5Sixth-grader Lonnie Collins Motion (a.k.a.Locomotion) and his younger sister, Lili, live inseparate but loving foster homes. Peace,Locomotion is a compilation of his letters toLili, telling her about his home and school life.Locomotion enjoys writing poetry, so some ofhis poems are interspersed amongst theletters, too.Jacqueline Woodson weaves a tender story offamily, grief, love, war, empathy, andfriendship. Her descriptions of small humancomforts―such as Miss Edna makingLocomotion’s favorite meal or sewing a patchon his pants―feel natural. Woodson coversdifficult intangibles such as grief and war justas masterfully, and her characters are so welldrawn that they spring to life in the reader’smind.This is the sequel to Locomotion, but the readercan understand and enjoy this story withoutknowing the prequel. Because each ofLocomotion’s letters forms its own chapter,chunks of white space are common. Themargins are wide and the pages are edged insilver-gray, giving the book the feel of a privateCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 25 NOVEMBER 2011

MIDDLE SCHOOL NONFICTIONjournal. The well-designed format matches themood and pacing of the book perfectly.This is an excellent choice for reluctantreaders, especially middle school boys who willrelate to Locomotion’s friendship with Clydeand his fond relationship with Miss Edna’s twoolder sons.Carol SattaNOVEMBER 2011 26 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

B O O K R E V I E W SM I D D L E S C H O O L N O N F I C T I O NBullying and me : schoolyard stories / byOuisie Shapiro. Chicago: Albert Whitman,2010. LCCN 2010000754.HBB, 9780807509210, $16.99371.5 1 v. (unpaged) : col. ill. ; 26 cm.MS (INT) Rating: 4Bullying and Me: Schoolyard Stories by OusieShapiro opens with a letter to the reader thataddresses bullying broadly and sends themessage to anyone who has ever been bulliedthat you are not alone and it is not your fault.Thirteen personal accounts follow. Elevencome from school-age children and teenagerstalking about their experiences with bullying ingrades 5-12, while two come from adults whorecall being bullied when they were younger.Every story includes a photograph of thenarrator by Steven Vote and a comment frombullying expert Dorothy Espelage (“Dr.Dorothy”). The book concludes with six tips ondealing with bullies: Ignore the bully, don’tfight back, tell someone you trust, find yourreal friends, steer clear of bullies, and don’tstand by and do nothing.Excellent photography makes the book visuallyappealing, but its concept is stronger than itsexecution for two reasons: Shapiro never reallydefines what bullying is, and Dr. Dorothy’sadvice seems confusing or inconsistent in lightof the stories selected. Dr. Dorothy sidestepsthe issue of self-defense and when, if ever, it’sappropriate to respond to violence withviolence. She tells one boy who fights backphysically it is not his fault. She tells anotherboy who beats up his bully and threatenssomeone who was bullying a friend that he wasbrave and kind to help his friend, but that it’sdangerous to stand up to bullies.As a picture book designed for ages 9-12,Bullying and Me focuses on raising awarenessand does create an opportunity for meaningfuldiscussion with children in this age group.Unfortunately, it does not move beyond thestandard bullying advice for children to avoidit if you can, ignore it if you cannot avoid it,and ultimately just tell an adult.Laurie A. GrayDragons : legends & lore of dinosaurs.Green Forest, Ark.: Master Books, 2011.LCCN 2010937900.HBB, 9780890515587, $17.99398.23 24 p. : col. ill. ; 28 x 31 cm.MS Adult Rating: 3Dragons is a gorgeous coffee table book thatcovers dragon legends across six continents ofthe globe. Legends from Babylon, Greece,China, America, the United Kingdom and SouthAmerica are tucked into tiny envelopes for thereader to unfold and enjoy.One section of this twenty-four page volume isdevoted to flying serpents that are depicted inthe ancient art of civilizations as diverse as theChinese, Babylonians, and Peruvians. TheRoman philosopher Cicero and the historianMarcellius also cite documentation of theseserpents’ existence. Additional eyewitnessaccounts are provided along with an 1890newspaper article from Tombstone, Arizona. Ascholarly commentary examines varioustheories about dragons, concluding that theseaccounts make sense if dinosaurs and peopleco-existed.Biblical commentaries are referenced, alongwith twenty-four quotes from the King JamesCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 27 NOVEMBER 2011

MIDDLE SCHOOL NONFICTIONVersion of the Bible that mention dragons. Thebook also includes a spread on saints andslayers.This lovely illustrated publication presentsinformation to stimulate the imagination. Itsglossy, rich colored pages are filled withbeautiful portrayals of dragons and dinosaurs.The word for dragon is listed in twenty-onedifferent languages. Small inset books, maps,timelines, fold-out pages, and pictures behindhidden panels add appeal. The inside backcover offers a list of questions and answersbased on the Bible.This book does a commendable job ofpresenting a Biblical worldview with muchanecdotal evidence to support the premise thatdragon was the common term used for avariety of dinosaurs. However, no strongparallels are drawn between legend and the listof quotes from the Bible. The subject is coveredwith great thoroughness, but with little hardscientific evidence. Although it couldn't havebeen presented more colorfully orimaginatively, the volume doesn’t verify orquantify any scientific facts. It is unlikely toconvince a skeptic. Very young children mayfind the cover art and some of the picturesfrightening. It's an interesting and appealingwork, but unlikely to satisfy a serious student.Deborah H. RabernSugar changed the world : a story of magic,spice, slavery, freedom, and science / byMarc Aronson and Marina Budhos. Boston:Clarion, 2010. LCCN 2009033579.HBB, 9780618574926, $20.00664 ix, 166 p. : ill., maps ; 25 cm.MS HS Rating: 3How often do we consider the sweetening inour cake, candy, or ice cream? Sugar Changedthe World by Marc Aronson and Marina Budhosdemonstrates the story of sugar and how it fitsinto the picture of world history. An emphasison the slave trade shows how the desire forsugar created barbaric practices in theendeavor to bring the seasoning to the blessed.Eye-opening and a bit unsettling, sugar’sjourney through the ages is chronicled byauthors motivated by family history thatentwine with the sugar trade. The science andproduction methods behind sugar areparticularly fascinating.However, in the attempt to be comprehensive,the book tries to accomplish too much. Thescope of the book encompasses the entireglobe, from early B.C. civilizations through the20 th century. The vastness of sugar’s storysometimes rabbit trails into side avenues thatcan become tedious, although the authors’efforts toward thoroughness are appreciated. Itshould also be noted that personal opinionsand some political asides can be found in thetext, undermining the authors’ extensiveresearch. This lack of objectivity makes it lessappropriate for school use.Songs, quotes, oral histories, and more thaneighty archival illustrations, photographs, andmaps help portray the history of sugar.Resources feature a list of notes, websites list,web guide to illustrations, index and abibliography. The authors also include an essayon how they researched the book.Not for the armchair historian, but ideal forthose interested in food history, social justice,NOVEMBER 2011 28 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

MIDDLE SCHOOL NONFICTIONor researching this topic.Jaclyn S. MillerWhat I learned in Narnia / Douglas Wilson.Moscow, Ida.: Canon Press, 2010. LCCN2010029748.PAP, 9781591280798, $15.oo823 168 p. ; 22 cm.MS HS Adult Rating: 5What I Learned in Narnia, by Doug Wilson, is agem of a book for those who have alreadytraveled to Narnia. Wilson, for his part, hasbreathed Narnian air since the first decade inwhich it seeped into our world, and his nativestatus shows.Wilson first developed the material in this bookfor talks he delivered to kids at his church. Someremarkable kids apparently attend that church,because only the kids old enough to understandwhat a "supposal" is (the idea that things andcharacters in Narnia have a relationship to thingsand characters in our world) will be able to graspWilson's analyses and lessons.Wilson's book "moralizes" the Narnia series. thiswill sound dangerous to literature lovers andtheologians―but it's not, because Wilson fits bothof those roles and knows their concerns. Hedoesn't make the story fade away in order to focuson a bunch of dry principles. The story, he says,should be enjoyed first as a story. And stories,Wilson well knows, provide one of the best waysto really learn good theology. Wilson's book isthe best kind of moralizing: he is only shininglight on morals Lewis put there.Those morals come to the reader in sevenchapters: authority, confession of sin, nobility,spiritual disciplines, love of story, thoroughgrace, love for God. Wilson quotes from thestories liberally and shows true and falseexamples of the character qualities.Wilson makes plain C.S. Lewis's penetratinginsights into fallen human psychology. Theselfishness of Edmund provides a window intoadult selfishnesses. The faith of Lucy is a modelfor adult faith. That's why the Narnia series isbeloved by children and parents alike. Theillustrations and applications Wilson gives are,like Lewis's, picture-perfect for his targetaudience. Wilson, borrowing from Lewis'amazing skill, knows how to connect truth to thereal life of children without sounding trite.One unforgiveable typo (Iterion for Tirian!) is theonly real criticism that could be made of thiswonderful book, and all it shows is that aCalormen has crept in unawares and played withCanon Press's spell-checker!Mark L. Ward, Jr.Truce : the day the soldiers stoppedfighting / Jim Murphy. New York:Scholastic Press, 2009. LCCN 2008040500.HBB, 9780545130493, $19.99940.4 116 p. : ill., maps ; 26 cm.MS (HS) Rating: 5Truce by Jim Murphy highlights the ChristmasTruce of 1914, a spontaneous agreement betweensoldiers on both sides of the trenches to suspendhostilities in order to celebrate Christmas. Thistruce was not officially sanctioned and has neverbeen replicated in military history.An illustration showing British and Germansoldiers exchanging gifts appears at the beginningof the book and captures the reader's attention. Tothe right is a quote by Winston Churchill from aCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 29 NOVEMBER 2011

MIDDLE SCHOOL NONFICTIONletter to his wife Clementine, dated November 23,1914: "What would happen, I wonder, if thearmies suddenly and simultaneously went onstrike and said some other method must be foundof settling the dispute?"In the chapters that follow, Murphy givesbackground information regarding the eventsleading up to World War I. He explains thetransition from the excitement of hand to handcombat to the inherent boredom of trench warfare.He also emphasizes the diminished confidence ofallied and enemy troops as they realize that aswift victory is not forthcoming. Finally, hedescribes the Christmas miracle of a peace thatlasted from two days to two months.Many sepia tone photos, paintings, and chartsobtained from museums, newspapers, and theauthor's own private collection are used toillustrate the book. Included, is a time line ofWorld War I, a comprehensive bibliography ofnotes and sources, an index, andacknowledgments.In the epilogue, Murphy compares the volatilesituation between the Allied Nations and theCentral Powers of Europe prior to World War Iwith the emotionally charged atmospherefollowing the attacks of September 11, 2001.Whether one agrees with his summation or not,Truce is a book worth reading and one which Ihighly recommend.Carmen ReddingNOVEMBER 2011 30 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

H I G H S C H O O L F I C T I O NB O O K R E V I E W SDouble take : a novel / Melody Carlson.Grand Rapids, Mich.: Revell, 2011. LCCN2010053530.PAP, 9780800719647, $9.99Fic273 p. ; 22 cm.HS (Adult) Rating: 3In Melody Carlson’s new offering, Double Take,readers get an insight into the Amishcommunity through the eyes of a spoiled NewYork heiress. Seventeen year old Madison is sostressed about the demands placed upon herby friends and family that she jumps in her carand flees town. In trying to find answers todownsizing her complicated lifestyle shediscovers an Amish girl, Anna, who is waitingfor her uncle. Anna is also searching foranswers and she believes they lay beyond herAmish community. On a whim, the girls decideto switch places since they resemble each otherin looks. It’s only for a week, but what theylearn from the switch will last them a lifetime.Melody Carlson’s specialty is writing for theteen girl audience. She has covered a variety ofsubjects from college life to cults tokidnappings, and now her new book takes onthe Amish culture. At first there is the tendencyto think the book is trying to jump aboard theAmish craze; however, the deeper focus is theage old theme of appreciating what you’ve gotwhen it’s no longer there. For spoiled uber-richgirl Madison, there is the realization of how shecan get by on a little, and the discovery of whoher true friends really are. For simple livingAmish Anna, it’s learning to live reality and notlive for dreams that can’t come true.One other important aspect of the book is themessage of judging others, which Carlsoncovers with a light touch that leaves a deepimpression. Overall, even though the plot isfairly implausible, and the story gets a bitdidactic when it comes to a character-drivendiscussion about Amish beliefs, this is anentertaining read, one Carlson fans withundoubtedly appreciate.Pam WebbDouble shot / Erynn Mangum. (A MayaDavis novel ; 3) Colorado Springs: THINK,2010. LCCN 2010023151.PAP, 9781615215492, $12.99Fic285 p. ; 21 cm.HS (Adult) Rating: 3Continuing her contemporary series, ErynnMangum presents Double Shot about MayaDavis, a coffee shop employee. Jack and Mayaare engaged―but before they can finishwedding plans, things begin to unravel. CanMaya trust God even when things seemdisastrous?In Double Shot, Maya’s brother and sister-inlaware expecting their first child. There issome sibling rivalry, at least in Maya’s mindwhen she compares herself to her brother, asuccessful doctor. All that is set aside as Kategoes into early labor and delivers a prematurebaby boy. The family rallies around Zach andKate as they watch Benjamin struggle to stayalive and grow. Meanwhile Jack and Maya aretrying to plan a wedding. Before Maya canshare her news of being offered a promotion tomanager, Jack is recommended for a position inanother city, twenty hours away.Mangum does a good job presenting likeablecharacters facing real situations. Maya and Jackare planning a wedding in the midst of tryingCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 31 NOVEMBER 2011

H I G H S C H O O L N O N F I C T I O NB O O K R E V I E W SThe handy science answer book / compiledby the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh; [edited by Naomi E. Balaban andJames E. Bobick]. (The handy answer bookseries) Canton, Mich.: Visible Ink, 2011.LCCN 2011000429.PAP, 9781578593217, $21.95500 viii, 679 p. : ill. ; 24 cm.HS (Adult) Rating: 5The Handy Science Answer Book, by theCarnegie Library of Pittsburgh, updates the2003 edition. It is part of a series answeringbasic questions on various subjects. Like theothers, The Handy Science Answer Book isgeared toward the general audience.Pure science is the “knowledge of the naturalworld” (p.1), while technology is considered“applied science.” Arranged by subject, TheHandy Science Answer Book covers physicsand chemistry, astronomy and space, earth,climate and weather, minerals, energy, environment,biology, plant world, animal world,human body, and health and medicine.Using a question and answer format, thebook provides a quick refresher in several areas,as well as an introduction to the keyconcepts in each of these areas. Along withthe 2,000 questions and the one or two paragraphanswers, the text is interspersed withfacts in sidebars, photos, graphs, and illustrations.An index is also included.One does not need to read the book fromfront to back. In fact, it is designed to allowthe reader to flip to the section of interest,finding the answer they need. It can also beused to supplement traditional texts byproviding a quick review on a topic, as is thecase with the other books in this series.The book has significant value to the generalreader who is interested in finding out moreabout what was the first computer game, howdo fleas jump so far, to what is the averageweight of a human brain. It is a user-friendlyguide explaining scientific concepts in plainEnglish.Recommended for high school and public libraries.Carol R. GehringerEscape-- teens on the run : primarysources from the Holocaust / Linda JacobsAltman ; Holocaust research by MargaretShannon. (True stories of teens in the Holocaust)Berkeley Heights, N.J.: Enslow Publishers,2010. LCCN 2009021378.LIB, 9780766032705, $23.95940.53 128 p. : ill. (some col.), col. map ; 25 cm.HS (Adult) Rating: 5Linda Jacobs Altman specializes in writingbooks about history and social issues for teens.This book by Altman discusses teens on the runduring the Holocaust in Europe.Escape – Teens on the Run uses primarysources from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museumto share the ways teens and children escapedthe Nazis, found places of refuge in Europe,and fought back as part of the resistance.One chapter tells of an eleven-year-old girlwho faced execution several times but managedto escape, although the rest of her familydid not.Another chapter tells of their experience withKristallnacht and having no country willing toaccept the fleeing Jews. Many would flee onecountry only to find their “new” country wasNOVEMBER 2011 34 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

HIGH SCHOOL NONFICTIONsoon invaded by the Nazis, and their lives werein danger again. Families were split up withlittle time for goodbyes. Jews would find sanctuaryonly to face a new challenge: learning tobuild new lives in an unknown land.Altman’s book presents seven chapters tellingthe stories of teens and children. Some storieswere familiar with fathers being sent to prisonwhile families fled the country. But others areunfamiliar, like the Japanese ambassador toLithuania who issued thousands of visas forJews to immigrate to Japan, and the Kindertransportin which two hundred Jewish orphanswent to England. Still other stories toldof the valiant effort to fight back in big and littleways.The poignant black-and-white photos enhancethe stories. A timeline, chapter notes referencingthe primary sources, a glossary, a bibliographyfor further reading, Internet addresses,and an index complete the book.Recommended for school and pubic libraries.Carol Gehringer331.702 Occupational outlook handbook530. The handy physics answer book642.4 The reluctant entertainer : every woman'sguide to simple and gracious hospitalityThe following titles of interest to high schoolersare reviewed in the adult nonfiction section:150. The handy psychology answer book220.9 The whole Bible story231.7 Should Christians embrace evolution? :biblical and scientific responses248.88 The Christian's career journey : findingthe job God designed for you261.8 The global-warming deceptionCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 35 NOVEMBER 2011

ADULT FICTIONMeanwhile, a bomb explodes, injuring Harry.He escapes from Palestinian authorities intoJordan hot on the trail of a forged icon, theBlack Madonna.Davis Bunn’s dialog and action sequences arewritten with panache, and the flavor of foreignlocales is vivid with detail. The plot couldadapt well as a screenplay with somesimplification.However, the storyline is uneven and confusingin places. A major suspension of disbelief isrequired for the discriminating reader.Characters appear with dizzying rapidity, andapparently trust each other on sight.Relationships don’t evolve much. The romancebetween Storm and Raphael happens withoutenough prelude―too much too soon. Moretransition would be helpful.All of the elements for a great thriller are here,but they don’t come together with either thecohesiveness or intensity prevalent in some ofBunn’s other novels. This title feels a bit like acollaborative effort although no one is listed.This book may not be a disappointment fordiehard fans. It’s a decent read, but not Bunn’sbest.Deborah H. RabernDeadly disclosures / Julie Cave. (DinahHarris mystery : 1) Green Forest, Ark.:Master Books, 2010. LCCN 2010920641.PAP, 9780890515846, $9.99Fic288 p. ; 22 cm.Pieces of light / Julie Cave. (Dinah Harrismystery : 3) Green Forest, Ark.: MasterBooks, 2011. LCCN 2011928273.PAP, 9780890516089, $9.99Fic301 p. ; 22 cm.Shadowed mind / Julie Cave. (Dinah Harrismystery ; 2) Green Forest, Ark.: MasterBooks, 2010. LCCN 2010936940.PAP, 9780890515907, $9.99Fic281 p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 5Julie Cave presents a suspenseful trilogyfeaturing FBI agent Dinah Harris who tries tofind answers even as she struggles with herown depression and alcoholism following thedeath of her husband and son. From thedisappearance of a high-ranking governmentofficial, to the world of neo-eugenics, to a serialbomber in Washington, D.C., Dinah works onthe mystery and comes to terms with her ownpast and her future.In Deadly Disclosures, FBI agent Dinah Harrisworks to find the answers to the mysteriousdisappearance of Thomas Whitfield, Secretaryof the Smithsonian. When his body is found andothers close to him start dying as well, afrightening conspiracy is uncovered, connectedto Whitfield’s recent conversion to Christianityand the hostility in financially endowedacademia towards believers.No longer an FBI agent, Dinah begins her newcareer as a private consultant, in The ShadowedMind. She uncovers a connection between theworld of neo-eugenics and a serial killerdeciding whose life has value to society andkilling those who do not. Dinah must come toterms with her past before she becomes thenext victim on the killer’s list.Pieces of Light, the thrilling conclusion to thisseries, finds Dinah hunting down a serialbomber who is on a mission to rid Washington,CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 37 NOVEMBER 2011

ADULT FICTIONColorado Springs: David C. Cook, 2010.LCCN 2009943354.PAP, 9781434768018, $14.99Fic288 p. : map ; 21 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 4Originally published by NavPress, this reissueof Ginger Garrett’s Chosen: the Lost Dairies ofQueen Esther is based on the biblical account ofQueen Esther of Persia. An orphaned Jew livingin exile with her people, Esther is ripped fromthe loving home of her guardian, Mordecai, tobecome a member of King Xerxes’ harem.There she endures rigorous daily beautytreatments to make her so pleasing to the kingthat he will choose her from all of the womenof the harem to become his queen. Esther ,however, mourns the loss of her first love,Cyrus, whom she had hoped to marry. Now heronly friend is her diary. Esther struggles withwhy the Lord has let this happen to her butcomes to accept her situation and trusts thefuture to God. Later, when she has indeedbecome Xerxes’ queen, she sees the fulfillmentof God’s plan when she is instrumental insparing the chosen people from genocide.Esther is portrayed as a faithful daughter ofIsrael and a quick-witted young woman whotells Xerxes that he must give her his heartbefore she will accept his advances, thusprocuring her the crown. Esther’s faith andcourage enable her to survive the cutthroatcompetition in the harem and, once she isqueen, to be willing to sacrifice her life for herpeople. Garrett’s descriptive prose is almostlyrical at times and easily draws the readerinto the exotic sights, sounds, and scents ofXerxes’ harem and palace, both places of greatbeauty but also of much suffering and intrigue.Several brief fictional commentaries, which theauthor uses to make the story of Esther’sheroism relevant to modern readers, have beenappended. When originally published, this titlewas named one of the top five novels of 2006by the Evangelical Christian PublishersAssociation and received a Reader’s ChoiceAward from Romantic Times Magazine. Morerecently it was a finalist for the 2011 ChristyAward.Peggy MorganSecrets / Robin Jones Gunn. (Glenbrookeseries ; 1) Sisters, OR: Multnomah Books,2011. LCCN 94043679.PAP, 9781601422736, $6.99Fic263 p. ; 21 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 3In Secrets, twenty-five year old Jessica Morganis hiding a secret that has caused her to createa brand new life: new job, new identity, andnew name. Her plan to lie low as a high schoolEnglish teacher in a small Oregon town ishindered when she is involved in a car accidentjust before her arrival. She is rescued by KyleBuchanan, a kind and caring firefighter whosoon makes it clear that he would like to bemore than friends. Jessica faces new and oldstruggles as she tries to make a place forherself. Jessica’s principal, Charlotte, is jealousof Jessica’s growing relationship with Kyle andis determined to discover Jessica’s secrets.Jessica develops a friendship with hercolleague Terri and is amazed by the peace thatfaith brings to both Terri and Kyle. But Jessicafears allowing anyone too close as she keepsher past carefully silenced. Jessica must decideif she will allow the secrets of her past toCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 39 NOVEMBER 2011

ADULT FICTIONdetermine her future.Recently republished, Secrets is Robin JonesGunn’s first novel written for adults. First ofeight books in the Glennbrooke series, thiscontemporary fiction story is set in thefictional Glennbrooke, Oregon, an idyllic smalltown where home and community have truemeaning. The characters are well drawnalthough at certain points the plot seems to beunderdeveloped. Kyle and Terri’s faith is wellrepresented by their actions and lives. Kyle’sown past has prevented him from showinginterest in anyone until Jessica comes to town.Jessica is a likable character for whom onecannot help but root as she struggles to cometo terms with her past and find the strength toallow others to discover the real her. Overall,Secrets is a sweet and satisfying romance.Elissa RizzoIndelible : a novel / Kristen Heitzmann.Colorado Springs: WaterBrook Press,2011. LCCN 2011010954.PAP, 9781400073108, $13.99Fic324 p. ; 21 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 4Once again Kristen Heitzmann has written agripping suspense novel filled with complexand intriguing characters. Readers of hernewest novel, Indelible, will want to readIndivisible first, as this second book in theseries is full of references to previouscharacters, events, and relationships that willnot make sense without the necessarybackground.Indelible introduces us to Trevor, who rescuesNatalie’s young nephew from the jaws of amountain lion. Natalie, a sculptor, has anincredible gifting that is both a blessing and acurse. Born with an eidetic memory, Nataliesees people’s faces so strongly that not onlydoes she see and feel the intensity of a person’semotions with an almost supernatural insight,but the image remains so imbedded in hermemory that it actually blocks her real visionuntil she is able to “release” it into clay.Trevor and Natalie’s lives become moreentwined as Trevor assists her in the care ofher young nephew, and as Trevor comes underattack from an ominous source who beginssending him disturbing photos of actualchildren in extremely dangerous situations.When Trevor’s own loved ones are targeted,Natalie helps him to come to terms with whohe is as a rescuer of people, and helps him taketentative steps toward the God he once knewand loved.Heitzmann’s novel describes a town of misfits,each with odd quirks that set them apart, suchas Natalie with her eidetic memory, a painterwho is blind, a man who longs to be loved butcan’t bear to be touched, and so on. Along withmystery and suspense, part of the fascinationof Heitzmann’s novel comes in realizing that allof us are “crippled” in some way, yet God canmake us whole, despite our weakness.Sherri BeelerThe fine art of insincerity ; a novel /Angela Hunt. New York: Howard Books,2011. LCCN 2010028940.PAP, 9781439182031, $14.99Fic302 p. ; 22 cm.Adult Rating: 5NOVEMBER 2011 40 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

ADULT FICTIONCarol GehringerThe fire in ember / DiAnn Mills. GrandRapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011.PAP, 9780310293309, $14.99Fic340 ; 22 cm.Adult HS Rating: 4Dirty and ragged looking, Bert leaves home onthe horse she believes her brother has stolen.Wanting to return the horse, she is mistakenfor the thief and is about to be hung whenDeputy John Timmons arrives. The Fire inEmber is a historic romance set in 1888Colorado, written by DiAnn Mills.The deputy arrests Bert and takes her to hisranch to await trial. Bert works alongside Johnand his brothers until the night Mrs. Timmonsgives every one a towel and a bar of soap. Asthey head toward the river, Bert hangs back.The other boys decide Bert should go in thewater first. They grab his arms and pull."Don't!" Bert screams. "Let me go. I'm a girl!"John takes Bert to the house and explains themisunderstanding to his mother. The twoladies began working together, cooking,gardening, and doing other women’s chores.Growing fond of John's mother, the girl revealsher real name: Ember. She has run away fromher family, a father and three brothers, whoabused her mentally, physically, and sexually.When rumors of horse thieves arise among theranchers, Ember suspects her family. She plansto sneak away from the 5T ranch, hoping thiswill keep her brothers from stealing theTimmons’s livestock. She packs to leave, butnight after night, she finds an excuse to stay.She has fallen in love with John Timmons,whom she could never marry because of theirsocial differences.A Fire in Ember by DiAnn Mills starts slowly,but soon the plot twists―a lack of lawenforcement, deceitful individuals, andoutlaws―turn it into an exciting page-turner.Maxine Cambra*The sweetest thing : a novel / ElizabethMusser. Minneapolis: Bethany House,2011. LCCN 2011008204.PAP, 9780764208317, $14.99Fic397 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: *5In The Sweetest Thing, Elizabeth Musser’s storyof life in Atlanta during the Great Depression isabout friendship, jealousy, prejudice, forgiveness,and God’s love. It is the story of two girls,opposites in every way, who find friendship, andthe families and friends around them.Anne Perrin Singleton is a spoiled rich girl whogoes to an exclusive school and has everythingshe wants. Mary Dobbs Dillard is the daughter ofa poor preacher in Chicago. They meet whenDobbs moves to Atlanta to attend school and livewith her aunt and uncle.They are not friends at first, but when a tragedybefalls the Singleton family, Dobbs befriendsPerri and they become fast friends, even to theexclusion of Perri’s long-time school friends. Theother girls’ jealousy of Dobbs does not thwart heroutspoken and independent personality. She keepson professing her faith in God in spite of theirridicule. When Perri’s family loses everythingand they have to adapt to a new lifestyle, fearsand prejudices overwhelm them. The friendshipNOVEMBER 2011 44 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

ADULT FICTIONof these two girls carries them through.Old diaries written by the author’s grandmotherfrom 1928 to 1932 inspired this book. Firstpersonaccounts by Perri and Dobbs are told inalternating chapters, an insightful way to get toknow the characters and their feelings.The question, “Does God provide in the midst ofdifficult circumstances?” is answered as Musser’soutstanding character development enables thereader to come to know each person, with his orher mannerisms and prejudices. As the authordescribes life in an affluent neighborhood inAtlanta and a poor neighborhood in Chicago, sheshows how the Depression affected people,whether rich or poor. There are some startlingdiscoveries as the book progresses and it isimpossible to guess the ending. As in other bookswritten by Musser, this one is a winner. Thesweetest thing is friendship and love.Juanita Wier NoblesAmy inspired / Bethany Pierce.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2010. LCCN2010283470.PAP, 9780764208508, $14.99Fic318 p. ; 22 cm.Adult Rating: 4Amy Gallagher is a frustrated writer whostruggles with her inability to becomepublished and her inability to keep her privatelife tidy, for Amy is all about not having toomany loose ends.Bethany Pierce provides a provocative comingof age novel with Amy Inspired. Even thoughAmy is about to turn thirty, and has a master’sdegree and a decent job as a college writinginstructor, she is still trying to figure it out. Shefeels life, friends, and family are moving onwithout her. She struggles with her definitionof being a Christian and what that involveswhen it comes to relationships. As Amy dealswith her issues, demands, and concerns, themysterious Eli comes into her life. How far cantheir friendship go, and should it go fartherbegins to overtake Amy’s life, as shecontemplates turning the big three-oh.Of late, the past couple of years perhaps,Christian fiction has inched further and furtherinto areas not previously explored. In AmyInspired readers encounter a character whowrestles with her personal goals, ambitions,and relationships and how her beliefs fit intoall of it. In short, Amy’s character reflects thereal struggles most people deal with. Amy hasher flaws and weaknesses, ranging fromcontemplating pre-marital sex to attendingparties. She struggles with wanting much butnot taking the time to prayerfully listen foranswers. Gallagher gives readers an insightfullook at a character whose struggles imitate reallife.Pam WebbFallen angel / Jeff Struecker and AltonGansky. Nashville: B&H, 2011.PAP, 9781433671401, $14.99Ficxviii, 381 p. ; 22 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 5A seemingly dead Chinese satellite suddenlycomes to life and collides with America’s mostsophisticated satellite containing secrettechnology. Eric Moyer and his Special Opsteam are called in to locate and destroy thefallen machine before the Chinese steal it. ThisCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 45 NOVEMBER 2011

ADULT FICTIONtakes them into Russian territory, whereCaptain Masters, son of the vice president ofthe United States, is held captive by Russiandissidents.Moyer and his team race to intercept thesatellite and rescue Masters, but they receivethe shocking news that Moyer’s daughter hasbeen abducted, and that it is likely connectedto the team’s mission. Moyer’s struggles tomanage his emotions and complete the missionsafely, while specialists back home try to locateGina’s abductors and identify the spy who isleaking information to the Chinese.Fallen Angel, by Major Jeff Struecker and AltonGansky, is an exciting military suspense novelthat revisits characters from their previousnovels; however, it can easily be read as astand-alone. Some of the novel’s characters areChristians and some are not. Those who arerely on their faith to carry them through thehard times, even while they wrestle with thefact that the same hands they use to pull thetrigger are the hands they raise in praise toGod. The difficult question of God allowing evilto be perpetuated is also raised. No easyanswers are given.The interaction and banter between the SpecialOps team members is humorous, serving as areminder of the tightly-knit nature of a groupof men who must implicitly trust each otherwith their lives. This humor helps balance theintensity of the novel’s action. Readers shouldbe aware that the novel includes brief butchilling and somewhat graphic descriptions oftorture, and employs slang and mildly crudelanguage.Sherri BeelerMartha : a novel / Diana Wallis Taylor.Grand Rapids, MI: Revell, 2011. LCCN2011004041.PAP, 9780800734657, $14.99Fic245 p. ; 22 cm.Adult Rating: 3Martha is infamously known as the busy,efficient, type-A personality who was rebukedby Jesus when she complained that her sisterMary needed to assist her in preparing a mealfor Jesus and his disciples. She is also thebrother of Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from thedead. This eponymous novel, by Diana WallisTaylor, attempts to flesh out the story ofMartha, imagining what her upbringing, life,marital status, and dreams might have been.Since the death of her mother, and later on herfather, Martha has been in charge of runningthe household for her younger siblings. Whennews comes of a teacher who heals people andclaims to be the Messiah, Martha and herfamily are intrigued; they host him in theirhome several times during his travels aroundthe area. Jesus later raises Lazarus from thedead, and things become especially dangerousafter Jesus’ own resurrection, when Lazarusbecomes a target of the High Council andreligious leaders. Mary hastily marries thedisciple Thomas, and Lazarus flees to safety inDamascus, leaving Martha to decide how shewill care for the family home and lands on herown.The challenge of writing a story that is alreadywell-known to its readers demands a uniqueapproach, or a more substantive treatment ofthe material than Martha provides. Despite itslack of depth and richness of characterdevelopment, the novel is full of interestingNOVEMBER 2011 46 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

ADULT FICTIONfacts about the Jewish traditions and times inwhich Martha lived. Readers will appreciatethe attention given to describing theobservance of the Sabbath and Jewish holidays,as well as the types of jobs, foods, crops, andmarriage traditions typical of the era.Sherri BeelerLarkspur Cove / Lisa Wingate.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2011. LCCN2010037084.PAP, 9780746208218, $14.99Fic360 p. ; 22 cm.Adult Rating: 4Second chances is a prevailing theme in LisaWingate’s latest offering, Larkspur Cove. As arecent divorcee, Andrea Henderson and herfourteen-year-old son return to hometown tiesto start over; however, Andrea finds this istough to do since she must contend with livingoff her parent’s smothering good graces whilebalancing the demands of her new job andbeing a single mother of a somewhat rebelliousteen.When her paths cross with Mart McClendon,the local game warden, a tentative workingalliance occurs concerning one of Andrea‘scases. Mart, struggling with his own past hurts,is ready to go beyond a professionalrelationship, yet Andrea is unsure she is readyto confront her feelings towards commitmentso soon. As their wounded pasts intersect,Andrea and Mart begin to understand themeaning of redemption.Lyrical writing, romance, mystery, and avacillating viewpoint provide an intriguingvariation of overcoming past hurts to embracepossibilities of the present. Wingate’s writingoften illuminates how everyday people loseand gain their faith due to variouscircumstances. Although Andrea’s voice is notas distinctive as Mart’s, readers are able toexperience both sides of the story through thealternating point of view. The chapter headingsadd a satisfying dimension to the story, andthey become a signpost for the chapteremphasis. Readers familiar with MelodyCarlson novels of small town life willappreciate Wingate’s style.Pam WebbCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 47 NOVEMBER 2011

A D U LT N O N F I C T I O NB O O K R E V I E W SThe handy psychology answer book / LisaJ. Cohen. Canton, Mich.: Visible Ink, 2011.LCCN 2010042165.PAP, 9781578592234, $21.95150 ix, 502 p. : ill. ; 24 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 4Dr. Lisa Cohen covers the fundamentals ofpsychology in The Handy Pscyhology AnswerBook. By introducing fun facts with history ofpsychology, as well as answering questions onhow psychology applies to everyday issues, Dr.Cohen delivers a fascinating guide to a generalaudience.The first section of the book gives an overviewof psychology, while the second half appliespsychology to everyday life. The history ofpsychology, brain and behavior, andpsychological development across one’slifespan are covered in the first half. Findingsfrom the field of neuroscience are presented inthe brain and behavior section to aidunderstanding in how learning takes place.Over one thousand questions in the second halfare answered in one or two paragraphs,making the book easily digestible by the nonacademicreader. One does not need to read thebook in order from front to back. In fact, it isdesigned to allow the reader to flip to thesection of interest, finding the answer theyneed. Some topics do not lend themselves tobrief answers, and the reader is encouraged todig deeper. A glossary, index, and extensivebibliography are included. Numerous tables,graphs, and sidebars enhance the text.Cohen claims “the entertainment value ofpopular psychology has overtaken theappreciation of serious science “ (p.vii). Shewrote this book to show a middle groundbetween the serious academics of psychologywhile making it available to the general public.Although intended for the general reader, itcan be used to supplement traditional texts byproviding a quick review on a topic, as is thecase with the other books in this series.The Handy Pscyhology Answer Book isrecommended for high school libraries andpublic library collections.Carol R. GehringerA visual history of the King James Bible :the dramatic story of the world's bestknowntranslation / Donald L. Brake withShelly Beach. Grand Rapids, Mich.: BakerBooks, 2011. LCCN 2010021092.HBB, 9780801013478, $24.99220.5 283 p. : ill. (some col.) ; 24 cm.Adult Rating: 5With 2011 marking the 400 th anniversary ofthe King James Bible, it is clearly expected atribute would be forthcoming, and DonaldBrake and Sally Beach do so with A VisualHistory of the King James Bible. This attractiveand informative account of how the KJB cameinto existence and its subsequent impact on theworld is definitely a special commemoration tothis all-important translation of the Bible.Brake’s passion and knowledge as a Biblescholar and collector resonate throughout thebook and his sidebars of personal anecdotesoffset the almost overwhelming voluminoustextual detail, creating a balanced referencewhich blends warmth and expertise. Theinclusions and variety of the manyphotographs, drawings, verse comparativeNOVEMBER 2011 48 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

ADULT NONFICTIONcharts, appendices, and indexes create aresource and reference serious Bible scholarswill no doubt want to add to their bookshelfofferings. One impression after reading thisbook is having experienced an armchair coursein Bible history, complete with an appealingslide show. Readers wanting to know thebackground of one of the most influential andinspiring Bible translations will be more thansatisfied with this timely edition.As a side note, it is encouraged for readers tocheck out KJB: The Book That Changed theWorld, a documentary with John Rhys-Daviesas the host, narrator, and guide. This docudramaavailable on DVD from Lions Gate, givesmore illumination to the King James Biblehistory and proves to be a worthy complementto Brake and Beach’s book.Pam WebbThe whole Bible story / William H. Marty.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2011. LCCN2010048249.PAP, 9780764208294, $12.99220.9 300 p. : maps ; 22 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 4Dr. William H. Marty, a professor of Bible atMoody Bible Institute, has taken on thechallenge of presenting the Bible as a narrativein his The Whole Bible Story in everydaylanguage, and for the most part, succeeds. Hefocuses on the main details, forgoing the laws,genealogies, prophecies, and other fine pointsthat can often detract from the mesmerizingstories contained within the Bible. Each of thefamiliar accounts such as, Exodus, Noah,Esther, Daniel, and the birth and ministry ofJesus are retold with both simplicity and depth.Despite its slim presentation of three hundredpages, Marty manages to recount many of themore important Bible events and stories;however, he does not actually live up to thesubtitle of “everything that happens in theBible.” He breaks down the retellings in plainEnglish to the point stories are reminiscent ofCliff Notes summaries, leaving a feeling ofincompletion. The book’s format ischronological beginning with Genesis andmoves through the Old Testament up throughNehemiah, and from there it goes to the birthof Jesus, concluding with Acts, allowing a briefsummarization of the epistles and Revelation.A consideration as a Bible companion orteaching resource, this might be adisappointment for those who want to studythe Bible more thoroughly. For thoseinterested in a quick refresher or retelling tosome of the more popular or widely knownaccounts, this is an inexpensive resource toconsider.Pam WebbEmbraced by the Spirit : the untoldblessings of intimacy with God / Charles R.Swindoll. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan,2010. LCCN 2010029817.HBB, 9780310327547, $18.99231.3 236 p. ; 22 cm.Adult Rating: 5Best-selling author Charles R. Swindollexpounds on the Holy Spirit in Embraced by theSpirit. The opening chapters bring the personof the Holy Spirit to light, who He is and Hispersonal significance to the believer. The workCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 49 NOVEMBER 2011

ADULT NONFICTIONand power of the Holy Spirit are cited withaccompanying scriptural references.About a quarter of the way through the book,Dr. Swindoll teaches the process of receivingforgiveness for sin and embarking on a new lifein Christ. This passage describes the blood ofChrist as “the greatest detergent in the historyof time.” (p. 94)He debunks the notion that people are victimsof sin, and provides important insights into thegrace available through Jesus. He gives specificways to know when you are led by the Spiritand quantifies the specifics of being filled withthe Spirit.Other chapters explain why we need the Spirit,how the Spirit keeps us free from sin, andexplore the ramifications of healing as afunction of the Holy Spirit. He discusses thefive laws of suffering, God’s sovereignty, aswell as the role of medical interventioninterpreted in light of scripture.Dr. Swindoll has written a classic that willdraw established Christians and seekers alikeinto a more intimate relationship with theoften-misunderstood third member of theTrinity. He provides practical real-life parallelsto scripture that bring clarity. The chapter on“unidentified inner promptings” offersvalidation to a phenomenon that many expertsare loath to address.A complete bibliography concludes the book,along with a study guide with suggested Biblereadings and questions to guide the reader todeeper investigation. Those who followthrough are likely to discover a new dimensionof spiritual connection. This volume won’tdisappoint those who are familiar with Dr.Swindoll’s work. It’s a worthy addition to anylibrary.Deborah H. RabernShould Christians embrace evolution? :biblical and scientific responses.Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 2011. LCCN2011014890.PAP, 9781596382305, $14.99231.7 220 p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 4Is Darwinian evolution compatible with theChristian faith? Can it enhance the integrity ofan orthodox biblical theology? Is it even goodscience? Such questions are brought to theforeground in Should Christians EmbraceEvolution? edited by British geneticist NormanC. Nevin. This timely volume brings togetherscientific and theological contributions from abroad range of well-qualified Christian voicesto address the crucial issue of the properrelation between the Christian faith andDarwinian evolutionary theory.Following a foreword by theologian WayneGrudem and a stage-setting preface, thediscussion proceeds from historical orientationto the origins issue through an analysis ofmajor theological challenges involved in theacceptance of Darwinian evolution. Individualchapters discuss such theological lynchpins asthe language and literary criticism of Genesis,the historicity of Adam and Eve, the historicityof the fall and the entry of death into the world,the nature and redemption of man, and thenature and character of God. Scientific topicsinclude the attributes of a science suitable forcreatures fashioned in the image of God andNOVEMBER 2011 50 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

ADULT NONFICTIONthe interpretation of scientific evidence. Aconclusion reiterates the basic contours of theorigins controversy among Christians andexpresses a conviction against the integrationof Darwinian thought with Christian faith.Brief biographic sketches introduce thecontributors and contextualize the content oftheir respective portions of the overall work.Subheadings clarify the flow of each chapter’sargument, and footnotes highlight the relevantliterature and provide supplementary insight.The most technical chapters contain numerousfigures to illustrate the more complexinformation they present.Mature adults, particularly those interested inthe integration of faith and science or involvedin apologetics ministry, will find this book anilluminating introduction to the far-reachingimplications of Darwinian evolution forChristian faith. Young adult readers seeking astrong foundation in the faith will appreciatethe clear presentation.Bradley A. PoteatThe Christian's career journey : finding thejob God designed for you / Susan BrittonWhitcomb. Indianapolis: JIST Works, 2008.LCCN 2007044990.PAP, 9781593575182, $14.95248.88 xii, 308 p. ; 23 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 5Susan Whitcomb writes a practical andbiblically-based resource for anyone on acareer journey. The Christian’s Career Journeyprovides the reader with information neededto conduct an effective job search, whether it isfor a new job, a career change, or to evaluateone’s calling for the marketplace or ministry.The book begins with a three-page “About ThisBook” section, similar to an annotated table ofcontents. This section mentions the companionwebsite that contains downloadable forms andadditional resources. Whitcomb’s premise is“God created you to play a significant role inthis world. He gifted you with a combination oftalents and experiences like no other ” (p. x).The first part of this book establishes thebasics for a successful career, including God’skey purposes for work, responding to God’scall, and how to make the right career decision.The second part covers planning yourcampaign and creating your career marketingdocuments. Executing your job search andavoiding problems during the interview orsalary negotiations are discussed in the finalpart of the book.All the chapters have sidebars with interestingtips and tidbits, such as coaching questions,quick tips for the job search, employer’s petpeeves about resumes, and more. Each chapterends with a “pocket prayer” to help the readertalk to God about their career transition. Alisting of Christian career and leadershipcoaches is found in the appendix. An index isalso included in the back matter, and dozens ofscriptures that relate to one’s career journeyare sprinkled throughout the book.This title is highly recommended for guidancecounselors, high school libraries, and publiclibraries.Carol R. GehringerCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 51 NOVEMBER 2011

ADULT NONFICTIONThe global-warming deception / Grant R.Jeffrey. Colorado Springs: WaterBrookPress, 2011. LCCN 2010043660.PAP, 9781400074433, $14.99261.8 217 p. ; 23 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 4In The Global-Warming Deception, Bibleprophecy expert Grant R. Jeffrey weighs in onthe fiercely debated issue of anthropogenic, orman-made, global warming (AGW). Usingpublicly accessible internet and print sources,he offers a detailed interpretation of what heviews as the hidden agenda of well-positionedpolitical elites to bring about a global socialistgovernment through exploitation of thecontemporary AGW movement. According toJeffrey, pervasive propaganda and flawed orfalse science are now the weapons of choiceagainst the free world, given the apparentworldwide failure of socialist and communistregimes to garner continued support andsubmission through more direct politicalmeans.Following a discussion of the general plan ofglobal government, Jeffrey analyzes the AGWmovement in detail. Individual chapters dealwith putative errors and misstatements in pro-AGW science and the movement’s major officialdocuments, former US Vice President Al Gore’sAGW advocacy, and the widely publicizedClimategate controversy involving the allegedmanipulation of climate science data. Jeffreythen outlines in basic terms the science behindthe rejection of AGW and interprets what heconsiders the true meaning of the internationalclimate treaties and regulations. He ultimatelyextends his argument into the realm of Bibleprophecy, exploring the importance of globalreligion to the interests and activities of thosepromoting global government, which hebelieves will be critical to end times events.The text is well organized with sectionheadings and illustrated by occasional graphsand tables. Extensive endnotes providedetailed citations and further discussion. Aselected bibliography of recently publishedworks is included to prompt furtherexploration into the global-warmingcontroversy.Adults and more mature young adults will findthis eye-opening book a biblically informed,albeit controversial, interpretation ofcontemporary issues and events and theirrelation to Bible prophecy. Students willappreciate the popular introduction toimportant relevant scientific information andreference material.Bradley A. PoteatScripture by heart : devotional practicesfor memorizing God's Word / JoshuaChoonmin Kang ; foreword by DallasWillard. Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP Books,2010. LCCN 2009035749.PAP, 9780830835362, $15268.6 166 p. ; 21 cm.Adult Rating: 5Joshua Choonmin Kang presents a convincingdevotional for memorizing scripture inScripture by Heart. He strongly encourages theneed to memorize the Bible, presentingdevotional readings interspersed withpractices which help press home theimportance of storing God’s word for dailynourishment. Kang’s teachings come from hisNOVEMBER 2011 52 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

ADULT NONFICTIONown training and experiences and hisadditional personal anecdotes help reinforcehis teachings.Kang‘s short and powerful book is not a quickcourse on how to memorize scripture; it isinstead, an inspiring instructional expoundingupon the reasons for the daily renewal andtransformation which come from intimatelyknowing God‘s word. Kang has the ability topresent his insights in a friendly andconvincing way, recognizing memorization isnot easy, believing it is an ongoing process.Each short chapter begins with a selectedscripture which introduces the chapter‘s topic.The book ends with an appendix of Kang‘sfavorite passages for memorization. Aninspiring resource, one which would bebeneficial for individual and school instruction.Pam WebbOccupational outlook handbook.Indianapolis: Jist Publishing, 2010. LCCN2010006093.PAP, 9781593577377, $19.95331.702 xlvi, 770 p. : ill. ; 28 cm.Adult HS Rating: 5“Glimpse the future to plan your career,”begins the introduction to this bi-annualreference guide. The Occupational OutlookHandbook, developed by the U.S. Department ofLabor, is recognized as a valuable source inproviding information for those seeking tomake decisions about present and or futurecareers.The OOH, revised every two years, covers suchmaterial as work conditions, training andeducation needs, wages, work environmentand expectations, along with projections forhiring in the selected field. Educators, students,counselors, librarians, and those researchingcareer decisions will undoubtedly want to seekout this vital resource.The OOH is user friendly in its approach.Upfront in the table of contents page is aspecial features section highlighting attentionto such notables as “the Personality-CareerQuiz,” projection overviews, and how to bestuse the handbook. Each career section isclearly marked and once a section is located,the listing is broken down into significantpoints, nature of the work, training required,projection data, and then moves ontoemployment and job outlook, earnings andrelated occupations. Sources for additionalresources are also provided. The index listsjobs alphabetically. Overall, this is animportant resource and reference for bothschool and public libraries.Pam WebbEverything Christmas / David Bordon,Tom Winters. Colorado Springs:WaterBrook, 2010. LCCN 2010027344.HBB, 9780307729293, $14.99394.2 312 p. ; 20 cm.Adult Rating: 4Everything Christmas presents favoriteChristmas stories, holiday recipes, the historyof Christmas traditions, ideas for gift giving,seasonal quotations, Christmas carols, andinspirational poems together in a singlevolume. It is a well-rounded collection ofCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 53 NOVEMBER 2011

ADULT NONFICTIONChristmas cheer.Edited by David Bordon and Tom Winters,Everything Christmas includes the historybehind traditions such as the nativity set andChristmas cards, and Christmas stories like“Why the Chimes Rang” and “Christmas EveryDay.” The editors also include the words andhistory of Christmas songs such as “O LittleTown of Bethlehem” and “We Wish You aMerry Christmas,” as well as recipes forChristmas wassail, peanut brittle, andChristmas snowballs.There are Christmas quotations by MotherTeresa of Calcutta and Andy Rooney; poems byMartin Luther and E. E. Cummings; Christmasmemories by Cheri Fuller, King George V, andSamuel Taylor Coleridge; and finally, gift ideasfor family members, romantics, grandparents,and others. Everything Christmas describesChristmas dinner in Argentina, Bulgaria,Denmark, England, France, Greece, Greece,Italy, Jamaica, Poland, Portugal, and PuertoRico.The book is divided into chapters that can beused as an Advent calendar, counting down thedays until Christmas. A topical index and a listof notes is included in the back helps thereader locate their favorite stories, traditions,or recipes. The chapters are alternately printedon green and red paper. Filled with lots offactual information, the book is appealing in itspresentation. However, the addition of photosor illustrations would enhance this text-densebook.The book will delight readers, especially duringthe Advent and Christmas season. The size ofEverything Christmas makes this book a perfectgift book for the holiday season.Carol R. GehringerPutting God back in the holidays :celebrating Christmas, Thanksgiving,Easter, birthdays, and 12 other specialoccasions with purpose / Bill & PennyThrasher. Chicago: Moody Publishers,2010. LCCN 2010017749.PAP, 9780802486745, $12.99394.2 252 p. ; 22 cm.Adult Rating: 5Bill and Penny Thrasher share their insights inPutting God Back in the Holidays on how tocelebrate fifteen holidays with spiritualemphasis. This resource helps families thinkmore biblically throughout the year.The Thrashers’ book covers New Years,birthdays, Good Friday and Easter,Thanksgiving, Christmas, Martin Luther King,Valentines Day, Presidents’ Day, St. Patrick’sDay, Arbor Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day,Memorial Day / Veteran’s Day / 4 th of July,Labor Day, and Halloween. In addition to these,the book includes spiritual birthdays andblessing parties. The book states “Holidays aredays set apart to celebrate religious orhistorical events” (p.9).The authors note holidays are oftenfatiguing―mentally, physically, emotionally,and spiritually. For example, Christmas,considered a season of joy, is the time of yearwhen suicides and depression are at theirhighest. This is most likely because ofunfulfilled dreams and expectations.The authors do not want to add more pressureNOVEMBER 2011 54 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

ADULT NONFICTIONto families; instead they offer practical helpand suggestions to creating more spiritualemphasis in our next holiday celebration. Withthe practical helps offered here, families canplan and personalize the next holidaycelebration, and perhaps eliminate some of thethings that are adding fatigue and stress.This book is a valuable resource for families,filled with practical ideas in celebrating themilestones of our days. The purpose of theirbooks is to “reflect the love of Christ to familyand friends” (p.10) as families celebrate theholidays throughout the year.Recommended for public libraries, churchlibraries, and families.Carol R. GehringerThe handy physics answer book / Paul W.Zitzewitz. Canton, Mich.: Visible Ink, 2011.LCCN 2010047248.PAP, 9781578593057, $21.95530 ix, 373 p. : charts, photos. ; 24 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 4Paul Zitzewitz, a well-respected physicseducator, updates the 1998 edition of TheHandy Physics Answer Book. The book is part ofa series giving answers to basic questions onvarious subjects. Like the others, The HandyPhysics Answer Book is geared toward thegeneral audience but still of value to thescholar.Physics studies the “structure of the naturalworld” (p.1). Therefore knowledge of physics isessential in understanding technology and thenatural world. Arranged by subject, The HandyPhysics Answer Book covers motion,momentum and energy, statics, fluids, thermalphysics, waves, sound, light, electricity, andmagnetism.Using a question and answer format, the bookis a quick overview or a refresher on severalareas. Along with eight hundred questions withone or two paragraph answers, the text isinterspersed with facts in sidebars, graphs, andillustrations. An extensive bibliography, aglossary, and index are also included.A reader does not need to read the book inorder from front to back. In fact, it is designedto allow the reader to flip to the section ofinterest, finding the answer they need. It canalso be used to supplement traditional texts byproviding a quick review on a topic, as is thecase with the other books in this series.This book has value to the general reader whois interested in finding out more about howradar guns work or whether lightning strikesin the same place twice or similar questions, aswell as the student reviewing elementarytheory. It is a guide to scientific theories anddiscoveries from everyday life applications toexplorations in subatomic physics.Recommended for high school and publiclibraries.Carol R. GehringerThe reluctant entertainer : every woman'sguide to simple and gracious hospitality /Sandy Coughlin. Minneapolis: BethanyHouse, 2010. LCCN 2010006324.HBB, 9780764207501, $17.99642.4 160 p. : col. ill. ; 26 cm.Adult (HS) Rating: 5CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 55 NOVEMBER 2011

ADULT NONFICTIONPopular blog author Sandy Coughlin offers“mouthwatering recipes, practical advice,heartfelt encouragement, and thrifty tips” inher book, The Reluctant Entertainer. She offersa simple approach to help free women from theanxiety or fear that hinders them from showinghospitality to others.Drawing from her experience as a frequenthostess, Coughlin offers steps to transformwomen from a reluctant to confident hostess.She claims many of us are so paralyzed bytrying to be the perfect hostess that we stopbeing hospitable to others. Her encouragementand advice is economical, practical, and easilyreplicable.She addresses the “joy busters” and presentsthe “ten commandments of hospitality” (whichinclude “avoid perfectionism” and“demonstrate thriftiness”). She shares personalstories from her childhood as well as herfamily as she uses her successes and failures todemonstrate her tips. Coughlin tells us in herbook, Reluctant Entertainer, that “best way toimpress others” is to give them “genuine careand authenticity” -- that is the most importantthing we can serve our guests.Each chapter is filled with colorful photos,recipes, anecdotes, and spiritual principles. Arecipe index (for recipes within the chapters aswell as the index), acknowledgements, and abibliography follow the two appendicescontaining pantry talk (i.e., how to organizeand stock your pantry) and more recipes. TheReluctant Entertainer would make a welcomegift to any new bride, single adult, or anyonewho wants to become a gracious hostess.Highly recommended for public libraries andhigh school libraries.Carol R. Gehringer*The 5 love languages : the secret to lovethat lasts / Gary Chapman. Chicago:Northfield, 2010, c2009. LCCN2009037112.PAP, 9780802473158, $14.99646.7 201 p. ; 23 cm.Adult Rating: *5In his book, The Five Love Languages: theSecrets to Love that Lasts, author, pastor, andcounselor, Dr. Gary Chapman, explains that thesecret to maintaining a lasting and loved filledmarriage is for both spouses to understand andlearn to speak each other’s love language.Dr. Chapman describes each person’s lovelanguage as falling into one of five categories:“words of affirmation” (positive and upliftingspeech), quality time (time spent together witha focus on each other), gifts (of all kinds), actsof service (serving in a way that is meaningfulto your spouse) and physical touch (of alltypes). Within each of these five categoriesthere exist varying “dialects” so that evenspouses who innately speak the same lovelanguage will often need to work oncommunicating their love. We naturally showlove for our spouse while speaking our ownlove language. However, few husbands andwives share the same love language andconsequently may not understand or recognizethe love expressed from their spouse.Dr. Chapman has developed definitions foreach love languages including cleardescriptions with examples from his over 30years as a marriage counselor and pastor.NOVEMBER 2011 56 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

ADULT NONFICTIONChapman often reminds the reader that “love isa choice” and each person’s need is unique.Loving your spouse means taking the time tolearn what matters most to the other person.Although it can be difficult to learn to speak anew love language, the lasting positive resultsupon one’s marriage are well worth the effort.Exploratory questions are included at the endof each section to help the reader betterunderstand each language in the context oftheir own marriage. The book also assistsreaders in identifying their own love languageand that of their spouse. This informative bookis an excellent resource for married couples aswell as for small group discussions.Elissa RizzoInside The voyage of the Dawn Treader : aguide to exploring the journey beyondNarnia / Devin Brown. Grand Rapids,Mich.: Baker Books, 2010. LCCN2010021501.PAP, 9780801071652, $12.99823 249 p. ; 22 cm.Adult Rating: 5For more than fifteen years, Devin Brown hasbeen writing, teaching, lecturing, and helpingreaders understand the writings of C.S. Lewis.In his newest book, Inside the Voyage of theDawn Treader: A Guide to Exploring the JourneyBeyond Narnia, Brown takes readers inside themagic of Narnia to reveal the true spiritualdepth of Lewis’ writings.Brown takes each aspect and/or theme of TheVoyage of the Dawn Treader and elaborates onwhat Lewis is teaching readers through hisstories. The reader is truly transported into thecharacters of the book to see how all humanbeings have the capacity to learn and growfrom various circumstances.Throughout the book, Brown points to the factthat human beings grow and mature morethrough hard circumstances than throughpleasant ones. Instead of only viewing theadventures of Narnia as difficulties toovercome, Brown shows how they are trulyrare opportunities for growth―especiallyspiritual growth. The reader also learns aboutLewis’ childhood and conversion experienceand how both of those fit into the land ofNarnia. Excerpts from other Lewis writings areused often as well and add to a purerunderstanding of the story.Each chapter ends with discussion questions tohelp readers contemplate how they canpersonalize their own life adventures. Brown’sguide is a must read for all lovers of Narnia.Elaine PriceCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 57 NOVEMBER 2011

P R O F E S S I O N A L T I T L E SB O O K R E V I E W SAnnotated book lists for every teen reader: the best from the experts at YALSA-BK / Julie Bartel and Pam Spencer Holleyfor the Young Adult Library Services Association.New York: Neal-Schuman Pub.,2011. LCCN 2010033312.LIB, 9781555706586, $70.00028.55 ix, 270 p. ; 23 cm. + 1 CD-ROM (4 3/4 in.)PROFRating: 5, with cautionPublished by Young Adult Library Services Association(YALSA), a division of the AmericanLibrary Association, Annotated Book Lists forEvery Teen Reader is a resource for every librarianwho works with teens and youngadults in a public setting. Annotated Book Listscovers 1,100 titles published between 2005and 2010. The book, in four sections, has anintegrated authors, titles, subjects, and seriesindex.The first three sections contain lists coveringdifferent readers, formats, themes and settings.“The Right Title for the Right Reader” rangesfrom avid and reluctant readers, innocent middleschool girls, and tweens. “RecommendedTitles by Format” includes audiobooks, nonfictiongraphic novels, and picture books forteens.Some “Recommended Titles by Theme and Format”are about chocolate, summer camp, andstate books (state where story took place). The“Annotations” in the last section are fairly general,without a specific reference which list thetitle appears on. Titles may appear on morethan one list, so the annotation is available inthis section.The book includes a CD-ROM with bibliographicinformation and annotations within the lists.As the authors themselves note, the book is notintended to be the definitive word, but to createa starting point.While a valuable resource for public and schoollibraries, it does not take a Christianworldview into account. In fact, Christian YAauthors are not listed.Because of the book’s worldview, Christiansshould exercise caution. The primary value willbe to recognize secular literature that would beinappropriate for their students. Christians alsowould do well to check other resources forteen literature with a Christian worldview.Carol R. Gehringer*Heart and mind : what the Bible says aboutlearning / Ruth Beechick. Fenton, Mich.:Mott Media, 2004.PAP, 9780880621737, $11.99220.07 183 p. : ill. ; 22 cm.Prof Rating: *5“How can I help Johnny learn?” Different“scientific” learning theories, and teachingtechniques based on them, seem to help for awhile. But eventually teachers encounter situationswhere such techniques are not effective.In her Heart and Mind, Ruth Beechick suggeststhat theories that exclude the biblical teachingon the “heart” (nearly 1,000 references) lackan essential element. In spite of “scientific” biasagainst it, she offers research evidence thatsuch an “immaterial” influence does affectlearning. She compares the theories of“behaviorism” and “humanism” with her own“biblical” theory, and then offers her theoreticalmodel. Parental love and discipline affectNOVEMBER 2011 58 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

PROFESSIONAL TITLESboth the levels of information learning andconcept learning in the head and the higher“heart-set” (self-discipline) in the heart. Theseall interact and then work together to producewise self-direction (creativity) at the top levelof her model. Later chapters expand on the individualelements of the model and offer practicalsuggestions for teachers, concluding withprojected levels of “spiritual developmentaltasks.” An appendix provides research data on“heart” in the Bible, including uses for each of981 citations arranged in biblical order. An indexfollows an annotated bibliography.Dr. Beechick has taught in public schools, andmore recently has written extensively for homeschooling parents on various areas of curriculum.She includes many references to secularbrain research and learning theories with indicationswhere their results may be useful, withlimitations. This is a second edition of her earlierA Biblical Psychology of Learning: How YourMind Works (1982), with extensive revisions inthe later chapters and the addition of the appendixand index. Twelve helpful black andwhite diagrams accompany the text. AlthoughBeechick occasionally refers to technical terms,this is written for home school, Christianschool, and Sunday School teachers. Her valuableperspective is highly recommended for theseteachers and their libraries.Donna W. BowlingThe Bible story handbook : a resource forteaching 175 stories from the Bible / JohnH. Walton and Kim E. Walton. Wheaton,Ill.: Crossway Books, 2010. LCCN2010008043.PAP, 9781433506482, $24.99220.9 448 p. ; 23 cm.PROF Rating: 5Bible professor John Walton and his wife, Kim,a Sunday school educator, present a “resourcefor teaching 175 Bible stories to children of allages“ (back cover). The Bible teaches us aboutGod through the use of stories. The Bible StoryHandbook helps us to teach these stories accurately,faithfully, and insightfully.The first part of the book covers the right andwrong way to use Bible stories by keeping thebig picture of the Bible in mind. The Waltonsdiscuss why Bible stories are useful to teachingus about God’s attributes, not just moral lessons.Addressing primarily Sunday schoolteachers and pastors, this book will be a goodresource for parents too.After laying this basic foundation in a lengthyintroduction, there are ninety-seven storiesfrom the Old Testament and seventy-eight storiesfrom the New Testament. With the exceptionof a single story from Revelation, all theNew Testament stories come from the fourgospels. The New Testament stories have allthe scriptural references. If a story appears inall four gospels, all four gospels are cited. Theback matter includes a teaching index by lessons,a scriptural index, resources for furtherstudy (including children’s resources, and ahelpful commentary), and maps.Each lesson in The Bible Story Handbook examinesthe lesson focus, its application, interpretationalissues, historical and cultural background,and mistakes to void. Each lesson is nomore than two pages long, giving plenty of materialfor the reader to use over one to threeyears. This book is valuable to Sunday schoolCHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 59 NOVEMBER 2011

PROFESSIONAL TITLESteachers, parents, and educators.Recommended for church libraries, pastoralstaff, Christian school libraries, and parents.Carol R. GehringerNOVEMBER 2011 60 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL

INDEXThe 5 love languages : the secret tolove that lasts 56All around the seasons 11Altman, Linda Jacobs 34Amy inspired 45Andi's fair surprise 8Andi's scary school days 8Annotated book lists for every teenreader : the best from the experts atYALSA-BK 58Aronson, Marc 28Balaban, Naomi E. 34Bartel, Julie 58Bates, Amy June 15Beach, Shelly 48Beechick, Ruth 58The Bible story handbook : a resourcefor teaching 175 stories from the Bible59The black Madonna 36Blood of kings ; 3 32Blue ribbon champ 22Bobick, James E. 34Bordon, David 53Boyd, Austin 36Brake, Donald L. 48Brave young knight 8Breach of trust 43Bronson, Linda 19Brown, Devin 57Brown, Don 20The buddy files ; 5 13Budhos, Marina Tamar 28Bullying and me : schoolyard stories 27Bunn, Davis 36Butler, Dori Hillestad 13Call of duty ; 1-3 43Carlson, Melody 31The case of the library monster 13Cave, Julie 37Chapman, Gary 56Chosen : the lost diaries of QueenEsther 38The Christian's career journey : findingthe job God designed for you 51Circle C beginnings ; 3-4 8Cohen, Lisa J. 48A core collection for young adults 4Coughlin, Sandy 55Cramer, W. Dale 38Crisp, Dan 13The Cuban trilogy ; 1 41Curious George : a winter's nap 11The daughters of Caleb Bender ; 1 38Deadly disclosures 37Desai, Priya Giri. 11Dinah Harris mystery : 1-3 37Double shot 31Double take : a novel 31Dragons : legends & lore of dinosaurs27Elsammak, Ariane 14Embraced by the Spirit : the untoldblessings of intimacy with God 49Escape by night : a Civil War adventure15Escape-- teens on the run : primarysources from the Holocaust 34Everything Christmas 53F is for fireflies : God's summertimealphabet 19F is for friendship : a quilt alphabet 20Fallen angel 45Fennimore, Rebecca Good 19The fine art of insincerity ; a novel 40The fire in ember 44Fix-it and forget-it kids cookbook : 50favorite recipes to make in a slowcooker 19The fixit and forget-it series 19Frankenhuyzen, Gijsbert van 20Freeman, Judy 5From darkness won 32Gammelgaard, Leslie 8Gansky, Alton 45Garrett, Ginger 38George and Martha : full of surprises 9The gift 42Glenbrooke series ; 1 39The global-warming deception 52Godbey, Cory 10God's mighty acts in creation 17God's mighty acts in salvation 17Good, Phyllis Pellman 19Grandma's attic series ; 1-2 16Green light reader: Level 1 11Grimard, Gabrielle 8Gunn, Robin Jones 39The handy answer book series 34The handy physics answer book 55The handy psychology answer book 48The handy science answer book 34Heart and mind : what the Bible saysabout learning 58Heitzmann, Kristen 40Holley, Pam Spencer 58Holm, Jennifer L. 13A horse to love 22Hostage in Havana 41Hubler, Marsha 22Hunt, Angela 40Hynd, Noel 41I wanted to know all about God 18In Grandma's attic 16Indelible : a novel 40Inside The voyage of the DawnTreader : a guide to exploring thejourney beyond Narnia 57Jackson Jones : the tale of a boy, anelf, and a very stinky fish 14Jeffrey, Grant R. 52Jenkins, Debra Reid 18Kang, Joshua Choonmin 52Katy's homecoming 24Kelly, Jennifer 14Keystone Stables ; 1-8 22Kingsbury, Karen 8Kroll, Virginia 18Larkspur Cove 47CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL 61 NOVEMBER 2011

INDEXLeading the way 22Litfin, Bryan M. 42The long ride home 22The Lord's Prayer 17Lost loves of the Bible ; 1 38Mama, is it summer yet? 9Mangum, Erynn 31Marlow, Susan K. 8Marshall, James 9Martha : a novel 46Marty, William H. 49The master illustrator series 17A Maya Davis novel ; 3 31McClure, Nikki 9Meade, Starr 17Merritt, Ginny 14Miller, Craig 11Mills, DiAnn 43, 44Moon over manifest 24More stories from Grandma's attic 16Morrow, Ali 10Morrow, Daniel 10Murphy, Jim 29Musser, Elizabeth 44Myers, Laurie 15Neely, Keith 14Nevin, Norman Cummings 50Nobody's child 36Occupational outlook handbook 53On the victory trail 22Once was lost 32The Pandora files 36Paradise Valley 38Peace, Locomotion 25Pieces of light 37Pierce, Bethany 45Pursuit of justice 43Putting God back in the holidays :celebrating Christmas, Thanksgiving,Easter, birthdays, and 12 other specialoccasions with purpose 54A ram for Isaac 14The reluctant entertainer : everywoman's guide to simple and gracioushospitality 55Richardson, Arleta 16Rogers, Jonathan 23Sacks, Marcy Goldberg 11Saltzberg, Barney 11Sawyer, Kim Vogal 24Scripture by heart : devotionalpractices for memorizing God's Word52Secrets 39Shadowed mind 37Shannon, Margaret 34Shapiro, Ousie 27Should Christians embrace evolution? :biblical and scientific responses 50Southern belle's special gift 22Storm Syrrell adventure 36Struecker, Jeff 45Sugar changed the world : a story ofmagic, spice, slavery, freedom, andscience 28Summer camp adventure 22The sweetest thing : a novel 44Swindoll, Charles 49The sword 42Sworn to protect 43Taylor, Diana Wallis 46Teens @ the library series 4That's when I talk to God 10Thrasher, Penny 54Truce : the day the soldiers stoppedfighting 29True stories of teens in the Holocaust34Tugeau, Jeremy 13Turtle in paradise 13Vanderpool, Clare 24A visual history of the King JamesBible : the dramatic story of the world'sbest known translation 48Walton, John H. 59Walton, Kim 59Wargin, Kathy Jo 19Warren, Richard 17Watson, Richard Jesse 17The way of the wilderking 23Welch, Rollie James 4What I learned in Narnia 29Whispering hope 22Whitcomb, Susan Britton 51The whole Bible story 49Wilbur, Helen L. 20The wilderking trilogy ; 3 23Williamson, Jill 32Wilson, Douglas 29Wingate, Lisa 47The winners! Handbook : a closer lookat Judy Freeman's top-rated children'sbooks of 2010 5Winters, Tom 53A wizard from the start : the incredibleboyhood & amazing inventions ofThomas Edison 20Woodson, Jacqueline 25Zarr, Sara 32Zitzewitz, Paul W. 55NOVEMBER 2011 62 CHRISTIAN LIBRARY JOURNAL