Easter is only one month away and I’ve been rounding up gifts to fill our children’s Easter Baskets! As I have shared before, I’m always collecting books to give our children on their birthdays, Easter, and Christmas. Some of the books I have purchased from Amazon, Sacred Heart Books and Gifts, Catholic Child, or St. Augustine Academy Press, some have been purchased on sale at local bookstores, and some have been given to me as review copies from the authors or publishers.
In addition to all the books, I usually include something that represents each child’s patron saint (this year I think it will be a mix of Saints ‘N Stitches, Wooden Saint Dolls, Blessing Blocks, and Prayer Pillowcases), art and/or writing supplies (this year it will include new pens, postcards, greeting cards, or notebooks), a small toy or two (maybe these NHL Minifigures, doll accessories from The Little Habit, Schleich animals to go along with the barn Bud received for his birthday, etc), and some symbolic Easter candy (I’ve made my own in the past or purchased it at the store) in the Easter Baskets. I also usually put together a “Family Easter Basket“, incorporating the various Easter symbols.
Below you will find the list of books we’ve picked out for each of our children. Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom for a chance to win a book from a basket of books I have to share with all my dear visitors here at Shower of Roses!
Note: Before I share the book list, I do want to remind you all that I haven’t read most of these books yet. I made my decisions based on recommendations, reviews, publishers, and the past work of some of the authors/illustrators.
The Imitation of Christ (with zippered cover)
Any book on the sacrament of Confirmation can explain what Confirmation is, but this is the only book that explains, in the most original and engaging manner, what Confirmation does. It is both a dialogue and a travelogue, taking the reader on a journey from the Crusades to the Crimea; from medieval ceremonies of Knighthood to early modern methods of warfare. What does it mean to be a Soldier of Christ? For the true child of God, life is a daily battle against a well-concealed foe-that is, our own flaws and failings-and Mother Mary Loyola proposes to arm young recruits adequately for this task, leaving no stone unturned in her quest to root out this ‘enemy at home’. This is the sort of basic training no young Catholic should be without.
My Daily Bread
(My husband requested that we give each of the older boys copies of The Imitation of Christ and My Daily Bread this Easter.)
Hear Christ speak to you like never before. My Daily Bread is a series of short, daily reflections on the spiritual life. Written with loving care by Father Anthony Paone, this devotional will strengthen your love for Christ and his teachings. Written as a dialogue with Christ himself, Father Paone leads the reader through the three ways of the spiritual life: Purification, Imitation, and Union. Arranged for daily reflection, this pocket-sized book is an indispensible guide to the spiritual life.
The Young Man’s Guide
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
Father Lasance’s Catholic Girl’s Guide, published in 1906, found immediate success among Catholic readers, and the natural demand for a companion volume gave rise to The Young Man’s Guide in 1910. Both have a similar format and similar material, though each is geared specifically for its particular audience. In The Young Man’s Guide we see life as warfare; thus those who would conquer must be prepared, as were the knights of old. The implements of battle are the young man’s virtues, and the fight will determine not only the character of the man he will become, but the crown he may win in the hereafter.
Page, Esquire, and Knight
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
The Lego Neighborhood Book: Build Your Own Town!
In The LEGO Neighborhood Book, you’ll create buildings with real-world details like cornices and facades, and try your hand at interior design by filling your buildings with furniture and light fixtures. Then add the finishing touches to your models with plants, traffic lights, scaffolding, and park benches. Snap together a few houses, shops, and apartment buildings to create your own neighborhood! Inside you’ll find: complete, step-by-step instructions for four multistory buildings, dozens of inspiring ideas to use in your own models, mini builds for a recliner, old-time lamp post, traffic light, and more…
The editors of the best-selling rediscovered Tolkien novel Roverandom present an expanded edition of Tolkien’s beloved classic Farmer Giles of Ham, complete with a map, the original story outline, the original first-edition illustrations by Pauline Baynes, and the author’s notes for an unpublished sequel. Farmer Giles of Ham is a light-hearted satire for readers of all ages that tells the tale of a reluctant hero who must save his village from a dragon. It is a small gem of a tale that grows more delightful with each rereading.
The Imitation of Christ
Any book on the sacrament of Confirmation can explain what Confirmation is, but this is the only book that explains, in the most original and engaging manner, what Confirmation does. It is both a dialogue and a travelogue, taking the reader on a journey from the Crusades to the Crimea; from medieval ceremonies of Knighthood to early modern methods of warfare. What does it mean to be a Soldier of Christ? For the true child of God, life is a daily battle against a well-concealed foe-that is, our own flaws and failings-and Mother Mary Loyola proposes to arm young recruits adequately for this task, leaving no stone unturned in her quest to root out this ‘enemy at home’. This is the sort of basic training no young Catholic should be without.
My Daily Bread
(My husband requested that we give each of the older boys copies of The Imitation of Christ and My Daily Bread this Easter.)
Hear Christ speak to you like never before. My Daily Bread is a series of short, daily reflections on the spiritual life. Written with loving care by Father Anthony Paone, this devotional will strengthen your love for Christ and his teachings. Written as a dialogue with Christ himself, Father Paone leads the reader through the three ways of the spiritual life: Purification, Imitation, and Union. Arranged for daily reflection, this pocket-sized book is an indispensible guide to the spiritual life.
Christians Courageous
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
For every half-dozen heroes antiquity could muster, Christendom produced thousands; and often from the strangest holes and corners. Instead of drying up the spirit of adventure, the Fire of Pentecost kindled it anew and made it burn with an unquenchable flame. The Master’s parting instructions to His followers resulted in a host of enterprises quite as daring as any to be found in Homer. Some of these are brought vividly to life in these stories about courageous Christians from the earliest days of Christianity to modern times. Although written primarily for youthful readers, they are sure to interest all those to whom the achievements of their fellow Christians are a matter of pride and encouragement.
The Book of Saints and Heroes
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
Andrew Lang and his wife Leonora are remembered best for their series of 12 fairy tale books–beginning with the Blue Fairy Book in 1889 and ending with the Lilac Fairy Book in 1910. These quickly became the most popular gift books of all time and remained so for several decades. And though all of them were published in Andrew’s name, his role was largely editorial–a great deal of the translating, adapting and rewriting was done by his wife Leonora and others. This husband and wife team next applied their highly successful formula for choosing, researching and adapting folk tales to the stories of the saints, creating The Book of Saints and Heroes in 1912, with a result that is both inspiring and fun to read. Illustrated by H.J. Ford, whose creations also illuminated the Fairy Books. This book is completely re-typeset in imitation of the 1912 edition by Longmans, Green & Co., with the original illustrations.
Dollar Battle-Gami
Got a dollar burning a hole in your pocket? Impress your friends wherever you go with the readily available paper in your wallet. Or leave a creative tip for waiters and bartenders with these creative designs in Dollar Battle-Gami. Master paper engineer Won Park created this sophisticated origami kit for advanced paper artists. These 15 impressive projects turn a dollar bill (or a sheet of the included practice paper) into a combat knife, spy plane, hand grenade, revolver, tank, stealth bomber, stealth fighter, submarine, jet fighter, U.S. Navy destroyer, assault rifle, unmanned aerial drone, sniper rifle, land mine, or a Japanese zero fighter plane. Dollar Battle-Gami offers the next generation of origami enthusiasts a chance to gain a whole new perspective on battle tools and the world of origami.
Smith of Wootton Major
Recently republished! A charming new pocket edition of one of Tolkien’s major pieces of short fiction, and his only finished work dating from after publication of The Lord of the Rings. What began as a preface to The Golden Key by George MacDonald eventually grew into this charming short story, so named by Tolkien to suggest an early work by P.G. Wodehouse. Composed almost a decade after The Lord of the Rings, and when his lifelong occupation with the ‘Silmarillion’ was winding down, Smith of Wootton Major was the product of ripened experience and reflection. It was published in 1967 as a small hardback, complete with charming black and white illustrations by Pauline Baynes, and would be the last work of fiction to be published in Tolkien’s own lifetime. Now, almost 50 years on, this enchanting tale of a wanderer who finds his way into the perilous realm of Faery is being published once again as a pocket hardback. (pre-ordered – released on Feb. 26, 2015)
Tea and Cake with the Saints: A Catholic Young Lady’s Guide to Hospitality and the Home Arts
Second edition: Now with full color photos, as well as watercolor illustrations, throughout!
Hospitality does not have to be elaborate or difficult. It can begin right at home with one’s siblings and parents! It can be as simple as a picnic with a friend to celebrate their feast day or surprising your brother or sister with breakfast in bed. Many of the ideas in Tea & Cake with the Saints use saint’s feast days as the occasion for practicing hospitality in the form of simple tea parties, but almost all of the ideas given can be used for any occasion a girl can dream up…
Sixty Saints for Girls
Recently republished! Joan Windham’s Sixty Saints for Girls contains all her stories of girl and woman saints from her other books, with a number of new ones added. The stores are arranged by date, beginning with Our Lady’s mother, St. Anne, and finishing with another Anne, Anne de Guigne (this Anne, who died in 1922, aged 10, has not been canonized, but she was declared Venerable on March 3, 1990 by Pope John Paul II). In between is a lovely mix of saints, young and old, princesses and pilgrims, mothers and grandmothers and nuns: a goose-girl and a horse-dealer’s daughter; a girl who was kidnapped by pirates, a veterinarian, and (believe it or not) a ventriloquist! These stories are ideally suited to inspire readers to fall in love with virtue. No child reading them will ever suppose that saints are all cut to one pattern or that holiness is less interesting than bad behavior. Anyone who wants to know what a saint is really like will get a clear and beautiful picture by reading these accounts, and they can be enjoyed over and over again by children of all ages, and by adults alike.
A Little Princess
Illustrated by Tasha Tudor!
The Doll’s House
From Rumer Godden, one of the foremost authors of the 20th century, and illustrated by two-time Caldecott Honor recipient Tasha Tudor, comes a heartwarming tale filled with imagination and creativity that is ideal for any girl who has ever loved a doll so much that it has become real to her.
For Tottie Plantaganet, a little wooden doll, belonging to Emily and Charlotte Dane is wonderful. The only thing missing is a dollhouse that Tottie and her family could call their very own. But when the dollhouse finally does arrive, Tottie’s problems really begin. That dreadful doll Marchpane comes to live with them, disrupting the harmony of the Plantaganet family with her lies and conceited way. Will Tottie ever be able to call the dollhouse home?
Tiny Stitches
Brand new! Instructions and supplies for quick, hip, adorable, tiny embroidery pieces with mini hoops that kids turn into decorative pieces they can wear or display. Embroidery is on trend (with more than 37m Google listings and 1.4 million blog posts about tiny embroidery), and these darling, penny-sized pieces provide the perfect application for what kids do with their finished sewn art: necklace pendants, buttons, hair clips, and more. The book teaches the basics of embroidery with Klutz-clear instructions, and includes thread, fabric, a hoop, mini-display hoops, and 100+ patterns for tracing.
(This new release hasn’t shipped yet, but I’m hoping it will arrive on time! If not I’ll save it for her birthday in August and replace it with another book.)
The Rose Round
13-year old Matt is spending the holidays at the dilapidated Woodhall mansion where his spirited step-sister Caroline works as cook. In a faded rose garden Matt meets Alix, proud old Madame Ayre’s granddaughter, and is introduced to the tension-filled relationship between the embittered mother and her crippled son Theo. Matt must learn to judge character rather than appearances as Theo strives to turn the house into a home for orphans. Alix, through her willful foolishness, puts Theo’s life in danger and brings a dramatic confrontation: Christian hope versus fatal self-pride. A timeless book with a fast-paced plot and vivid characters.
Saints Among the Animals
What do a whatchful fly and a weight-bearing whale have in common?
A grateful saint — a saint whose life of work and devotion to God wouldn’t have been the same without the loyalty. the friendship of a lion or a blackbird, an eagle or a deer. Other saints in these stories — two of the liveliest are women — deal cleverly with animals who act up: snakes in one instance, greedy geese in another. But in each of these stories, the commonality of all living things is luminously celebrated. The ten saints, whose biographies are given in the last pages, are named on the back of this jacket. (Includes: St. Colman, St. Werburge, St. Francis, St. Medard, St, Canice, St. Hilda,St. Keneth, St. Brendan, St. Kevin, and St. Jerome.)
The Golden Castle
“Once upon a time there was a castle (only most people called it a monastery)…” Published in 1969, our monastery’s Golden Jubilee Year, this delightful “nun-fairy tale” takes us inside the “Golden Castle” (on the corner of Morris and Springfield Avenues in Summit, New Jersey!) and gives us a peek into the lives of its “princesses.” A light-hearted read for children of all ages.
Sisters of the Last Straw: The Case of the Missing Novice
Will Mr. Lemon get Gracie the puppy taken away? Can Sister Krumbles find a way to stop Mr. Lemon’s evil plan? Where is Novice Kathy? Can the Sisters solve the mystery and find the lost Novice before it’s too late?
(One of the girls received the first book in the series last year and Sisters of the Last Straw 3: The Case of the Stolen Rosaries is also available. I will probably give book 3 to Chiquita for her birthday in April.)
A Nest for Celeste: A Story About Art, Inspiration, and the Meaning of Home
A beautifully illustrated novel about a mouse, her friendship with Audubon’s apprentice, and her search for home. Beneath the crackled and faded painting of a horse, underneath the worn and dusty floorboards of the dining room, lives Celeste, a mouse who spends her days weaving baskets, until one day she is thrust into the world above. Here Celeste encounters danger—and love—unlike any she’s ever imagined. She dodges a hungry cat and witnesses the brutality of hunting for the first time. She makes friends with a singing thrush named Cornelius, a talkative osprey named Lafayette, and Joseph, Audubon’s young apprentice. All the while, Celeste is looking for a new home. In the end, Celeste discovers that home is really the place deep inside her heart, where friendships live.
Make Your Own Washi Tape Stickers
Kids love washi tape (beautifully decorative paper tape that originated in Japan), but up until now they didn’t know quite what to do with it. Washi Tape Stickers is the only book that makes it easy to turn strips of pretty little tape into even prettier little stickers. The book is filled with pages and pages of traceable art and comes with six beautifully bright colors of washi tape, a stack of special peel-off backing paper, and a fine-line felt-tip pen. Simply trace a piece of art on the backing paper and cover it with washi tape. Then cut it out, peel it off, and you’ve got a perfectly shaped, perfectly adorable sticker.
The Wind in the Willows
Kenneth Grahame’s classic tale of the pleasures of country life and the dependability of good friends will never grow old. Now, in this splendid volume, Inga Moore recaptures its scenes and its characters with richly patterned and warmly detailed illustrations. Here, drawn with charming freshness, are impulsive dear Mole, rash Mr. Toad, reclusive Badger, and sensible Rat, so happy just “messing around in boats.” And here are the most treasured moments from THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS – Mole’s first enraptured row on the river, Toad’s irrepressible adventures in and out of automobiles, and many more. So gather ’round to read or listen, and, as Mole and Rat would heartily agree, a fine time will be had by all.
The Apostles Creed: What We Believe (Gloria Series)
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
Gloria Series Children’s Story Books
The Life of St. Benedict
Children and parents alike will be delighted by these stories and illustrations about the famous Saint Benedict. Based on his biography by Pope Saint Gregory the Great, and told by a Benedictine monk living today in Italy at the birthplace of Benedict, these stories and pictures are rich with interesting details. The holiness of Benedict, his wisdom, his great impact on the world, and his miracles will intrigue and inspire everyone in the family. Also included are stories involving his twin sister, Saint Scholastica.
Bilbo’s Last Song
Bilbo’s Last Song is considered by many to be Tolkien’s epilogue to his classic work The Lord of the Rings.
The Chestry Oak
As he watches his homeland of Hungary being taken over and run by invaders from Nazi Germany, young Prince Michael of Chestry strives to retain his identity and integrity during one of the most dangerous seasons in human history. Michael carries an acorn all the way from his castle home in Chestry Valley to the warm soil of the Hudson Valley farm in the USA where he makes a new home after WWII. It is difficult to decide which are the most unforgettable; the scenes in Hungary, Michael’s proud, valiant father and his beloved Nana, or the friendly young GI and his family who take Michael to their hearts and make him their own. Perhaps the most compelling character of all is Midnight, the dancing black stallion, full of fire and beauty, and trained to perform before princes. Kate Seredy’s drawings make this a book to treasure.
(pre-ordered – will be released on March 2, 2015)
Our First Communion with Brother John
(DVD – also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
In this unique presentation, young Catholic hearts and minds will encounter the Story of Creation, the Miracles of Jesus, the Last Supper, Confession, the Traditional Mass, and much more. Intended for children in the lower primary grades, included are some basic prayers, plus simple forms of the Act of Contrition and the Acts of Faith, Hope and Love, As Msgr. Kelly wrote in 1925, “Easy words and a little rhyme please a child; and when he knows what he is saying, his prayer is better said.”
The Rosary: My Prayers to Jesus through Mary (Gloria Series)
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
Gloria Series Children’s Story Books
The Hail Mary: Our Mother in Heaven (Gloria Series)
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
Gloria Series Children’s Story Books
The Little Children’s Prayer Book
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
This is a newly typeset and illustrated edition of the classic 1911 title by Mother Mary Loyola. This little 4″ x 6″ pocket gem contains more than just daily prayers: Two different sets of meditations for the Mass and Mother Loyola’s uniquely appropriate examination of conscience for children make this book a must for the Catholic child. Gorgeous full-color illustrations throughout. This is the softcover edition; we also offer a hardcover edition at the St. Augustine Academy Press website.
Little Saint Therese Paper Doll Set
(available as a printed set and as a digital download in color or black and white)
This paper doll set is made of my original, hand-drawn illustrations and offers a glimpse into the childhood of Thérèse of Lisieux, who became known in her adulthood as “Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face,” and, simply, “The Little Flower.” With this set children can join Thérèse as she sews, paints, plays with her sisters and her pet dog, takes long walks with her beloved father, participates in a Eucharistic procession, dresses up as Saint Joan of Arc, and–on what she described as “the most important day of my life”–makes her First Holy Communion. Her First Holy Communion costume is based on the actual dress and veil she wore (which has been preserved in her family home in Lisieux). Her other costumes were are based on clothing for girls in the late 1880s. Each page includes captions for the costumes and accessories and a brief description of her family life.
A Doll for Marie
This rediscovered gem, first published in the 1950s but long out of print, by Caldecott-winning illustrator Roger Duvoisin is perfect for a new generation of little girls who love dolls.
In the city of Paris, a beautiful but lonely doll sits on a shelf in an antique shop. She’s surrounded by old vases and teapots, but longs for a friend to play with. There is one little girl who would dearly love to own the doll, but Marie could never afford such a precious item. So Marie has to settle for admiring the doll through the window on her way home from school. But Marie and this doll are clearly meant for one another, and Marie will make sure that the doll has a home where she is loved.
(pre-ordered – will be released on March 10, 2015)
The Easter Story
“A beautifully illustrated book that recounts the story of the first Easter from Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem to the resurrection, and emphasizes the message at its heart—that of God’s everlasting love. This retelling of the Easter story is both clear and detailed, explaining fully the message of God’s love in a way that children will be able to easily understand. The book follows this important episode from Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem right through to the resurrection. Giuliano Ferri’s illustrations are peaceful, gentle, and elegant, making this a sophisticated picture story book for older children.”
The Our Father: Our Prayer to God (Gloria Series) and The Boy Jesus: The Perfect Child (Gloria Series)
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
Gloria Series Children’s Story Books
Exquisite 30 page hardcover books filled with Fratelli Bonella artwork from Italy 5″ x 6″
The Beautiful Story of the Bible
(also available from Ignatius Press)
Here are all the most important stories of the Bible, Old and New Testaments, with very expressive and gorgeous pictures, sure to delight young children from 3 years old and up. The Old Testament stories include Creation, Adam and Eve, Noah, David & Goliath, Moses and more. The New Testament stories include the whole story of the life and miracles of Jesus, and the lives of the Apostles and early Church, all presented in a wonderful way that shows God’s great love for mankind.
When God tells Noah to build an ark to keep earth’s creatures safe during the coming mighty flood, Mrs. Noah and their sons all give him a hand. Scene by scene, six appealing 3-D pop-ups tell the story — building the Ark, gathering the animals, birds, and reptiles, weathering 40 days of rain, sending out a dove to look for land — and, in a splendid finale, the doors of the Ark open and the animals come out two by two!
THE ROOSTER STRUTS . . . the bear shuffles . . . the worm wiggles . . . and the eagle soars! Recently unearthed in the Golden Books archives—and one of Richard Scarry’s most breathtaking books—it is the perfect first book about animals with its bold color, simple lines, and sturdy pages.
Another new addition to the BabyLit collection.
(pre-ordered – will be released on March 1, 2015)
On Easter Day in the Morning
(also available from Catholic Child)
If only every time a person heard the story of Christ rising on Easter Sunday their hearts were touched the way this book will touch yours. Children as young as 2 or 3 years old will be mesmerized by the rhythm of the narrative and captivated by the sweet, colorful illustrations, while older children of 5 or 6 will be able to easily appreciate the story of Jesus, the sadness His friends felt when He died, and their subsequent joy upon seeing Him rise again. On Easter Day in the Morning is a treasure, and a treat to read aloud. It’s a wonderful choice for gift-giving and is sure to become an instant family favorite.
For YOU:
A Basket of Books to Giveaway!
In addition to all the wonderful new books our children will receive this Easter, I also have a basket filled with books to send to my visitors here at Shower of Roses! Thank you to Catholic Child, Ignatius Press, St. Augustine Academy Press, Susan Peek, StellaMarigold Art, and Sacred Heart Books and Gifts for sponsoring these giveaways!
Prize #1 – The Way of the Cross for Children (DVD) and On Easter Day in the Morning sponsored by Catholic Child (value $30.90)
Prize #5 – The Life of Saint Benedict sponsored by Ignatius Press (value $16.99 – featured in New Additions to Our March Book Basket and this year’s Easter baskets!)
Prize #8 – Little Saint Therese Paper Doll Set sponsored by StellaMarigold Art (value $12.00)
What a great list of books! I love your ideas!
2015-03-03 00:25:31
I really enjoy your Easter book lists; they give me so many great ideas for my 4 children; thank you!
2015-03-03 00:29:16
Any of the books by Ignatius Press, thank you! Prize #2 – The Beautiful Story of the Bible sponsored by Ignatius Press (value $19.99)
2015-03-03 00:33:07
JMJ
Nice! Lots of ideas for our girls!
2015-03-03 00:49:12
Thanks for all the ideas! I am excited to start putting together some Easter baskets!!!
2015-03-03 00:51:10
They all look so great, and I have kids of all ages. I'm liking the Noah's Ark pop up though!
2015-03-03 00:55:07
I really like the Easter Story or a Doll for Marie for my daughter
2015-03-03 00:57:35
I would probably buy The Life of St Benedict for my boys.
2015-03-03 01:05:16
Thank you for hosting this giveaway!
2015-03-03 01:05:16
Thanks for the giveaway!
2015-03-03 01:10:59
I would love to win: Prize #7 – Crusader King: A Novel of Baldwin IV and the Crusades sponsored by author Susan Peek (value $13.95 – featured in our 2013 Baskets of Books for Easter) for my 11 year old son! It's a challenge to find him books that will keep his interest, but are also spiritually sound. Thanks for this opportunity, Jessica!
2015-03-03 01:25:57
What an incredible giveaway! Thanks for the chance!
2015-03-03 01:33:40
Thank you for the great giveaway. I am excited to perhaps purchase some of the books you linked for my kids' Easter baskets.
2015-03-03 01:34:12
My kids recently decided that St Benedict should be patron of our homeschool, so that one is especially interesting.
2015-03-03 01:44:03
Tiny Stitches! I have been looking for handicrafts to do with my daughter.
2015-03-03 01:47:11
Thanks for the lovely give away! I'd love to purchase the Rose Round or the Crusader King series of boy books")
2015-03-03 02:00:00
What a great giveaway!
2015-03-03 02:07:09
Thank you for all the ideas and the awesome give-away!! 🙂
2015-03-03 02:13:15
Oh, I would love any of these books, but I would especially enjoy either The Life of Saint Benedict, A Child's Book of Warriors, or Crusader King. I have two young boys who are already very interested in saints and knights and historic tales.
2015-03-03 02:13:25
Either Prize #5 or #6 for little boy I'm trying to give good role models to from an yearly age! Thank you!
2015-03-03 02:21:08
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful finds with all of us, Jessica!
2015-03-03 02:22:12
The new St Benedict book looks great!
Thanks for hosting this giveaway!
2015-03-03 02:23:53
What great selections!!
2015-03-03 02:24:51
Thanks for sponsoring this great giveaway!
2015-03-03 02:31:53
Great giveaway! God Bless!
2015-03-03 02:42:27
So excited! I'm a book fanatic and what would I do without your book posts? Truly, your guidance has placed more good Catholic literature on our bookshelves than ever before. Many blessings!
2015-03-03 02:43:37
amazing giveaway
2015-03-03 02:44:27
The Tolkien books and The Easter Story look like great reads, but all of them do really! Thanks for the giveaway!
2015-03-03 02:51:20
Nice selection! Thanks for the giveaway!
2015-03-03 03:00:37
What great book! My boys would love them!
2015-03-03 03:09:33
Prize #5 St Benedict has caught my eye! I have been looking for a child-friendly way of introducing my girls to this saint and his sister. This book looks like it may be just the thing! Thank you for the chance to win!
2015-03-03 03:17:03
The Sisters of the Last Straw: The Case of the Missing Novice sounds really interesting and I think my daughter would love it too. Nice assortment of books! ~Colleen
2015-03-03 03:18:54
I love that edition of Wind in the Willows. I had to give the one we read back to the library, but I'll hopefully add it to our collection some day.
2015-03-03 03:20:50
All of the books sound great, but I think my son (8) would really love the Child's Book of Warriors. I find your monthly book baskets so useful- thanks for the giveaway!
2015-03-03 03:21:59
Wonderful selection of books!
2015-03-03 03:24:22
I always love hearing your book recommendations! Thank you! I've added several to my amazon wishlist!
2015-03-03 03:24:24
These all look like good reads!
2015-03-03 03:26:28
Tough to pick. I like the paper dolls and may get them any way…I've always been drawn to St. Benedict so that has my attention…my son would love the book of warriors…the Noah's ark one looks cute as well.
2015-03-03 03:45:49
Thanks for book suggestions! Great giveaways..
2015-03-03 03:47:42
I can't wait ti get some of these. They look so good. The reprints from old are my faves!
2015-03-03 03:49:00
I can just about say that I have not read or even heard about most of the books in your post. I'm glad to be able to learn about them here and perhaps even get some of these choices for my own children. Thank you.
2015-03-03 04:06:00
I'm interested in the Tolkien books.. I'm thinking my boys might enjoy them!
2015-03-03 04:17:39
What a great list! Thank you for sharing it. I love giving my kiddos books like these as well.
2015-03-03 04:33:47
Another great list of books!
2015-03-03 04:41:52
Thank you for this wonderful list! I would love to win the St. Therese paper dolls for my little Gianna Therese, but any of them would be wonderful!
2015-03-03 06:23:31
These are all new to me so it's hard to pick! I am excited about the Jesus of Nazareth for children.
2015-03-03 06:48:19
What a great booklist! Thanks for sharing!
2015-03-03 11:29:25
I cannot choose a favorite, as they are all wonderful and fit the range of ages of all my children. Thank you for the opportunity!
2015-03-03 11:49:38
Easter Day in the Morning looks perfect for my little godson, who is three. What a fun giveaway!
2015-03-03 12:05:30
Thank you for your giveaways and your ideas! We are enjoying the Lenten Calendar in our home this year. God Bless!
2015-03-03 12:15:18
Lovely giveaway, thank you!
2015-03-03 12:31:11
Thank you for the chance to win. I would especially love Jesus of Nazareth: The Life of Our Lord for Children and the St. Therese Paper dolls.
2015-03-03 12:53:18
thank you for your time putting these together…absolutely beautiful
2015-03-03 13:18:40
pretty. and fun links!
2015-03-03 13:21:48
Thanks for sharing, I would love to get the On Easter Day in the Morning book for my 1 and 2 yr olds.
2015-03-03 13:23:06
The Beautiful Story of the Bible, looks beautiful !
2015-03-03 13:24:00
I put tea & cake and tiny stitches on my daughter's wish list. 🙂
2015-03-03 13:59:00
The St. Therese paper dolls looks so sweet.I have a daughter Theresa Rose named after St. Therese-she would love the paper dolls.
2015-03-03 14:09:01
I always find wonderful gift ideas from your blog. THank you!
2015-03-03 14:21:05
As usual SOR has great ideas for Easter
2015-03-03 14:36:51
These are great! It constantly amazes me how much you manage to put together for celebrations during the year. You are my inspiration to live more closely with the liturgical year. Thank you.
2015-03-03 14:53:25
I am so excited about the Sisters of the Last Straw book series. My girls will love them!
2015-03-03 15:08:19
More books! There is always room for more…. Lovely giveaway, thank you for the chance to win!
2015-03-03 15:39:25
Would love to win #2 or #5!
2015-03-03 15:53:34
Growing up, I loved Sixty Saints for Girls! So glad it's back in print! I think your girls will love it too. 🙂
2015-03-03 16:15:56
So hard to choose – I would love the DVD of the way of the cross – but my older boys would love the warrior book!
2015-03-03 16:31:37
Crusader King looks great for my boys! All of them look good- I have 2 little nieces (who are also my goddaughters) who would love some of these for Easter!
2015-03-03 16:34:33
Thank you for sharing your book lists with us. I've seen many that I would like to add to our own home library, so I have quite a list going. You are not only passing on great ideas, but you're also helping me to grow in the virtue of patience as I wait to buy them! 🙂 God bless your family.
2015-03-03 16:52:33
Too hard to choose! These are all great books. We already have a few of them, but these would all make great additions 😉
2015-03-03 17:19:32
What a great resource you are! I would love to have any of these!!
2015-03-03 17:43:47
I really enjoy your posts regarding books for little ones during the liturgical year. As a mom of two toddlers, I really appreciate the guidance!!!
2015-03-03 18:10:56
I remember coming across my Mum's copy of My Daily Bread as a child. It fascinated me and Mum let me hold onto it. I think it's especially charming because it's as if Our Lord is really speaking to you.
2015-03-03 18:17:04
I cannot seem to make my own comment – however, I too love the list of books. Thanks, Jessica, for the time you put into these posts and for the great ideas. I don't know where you find the time, but i am grateful.
2015-03-03 18:45:49
This is like Christmas during Lent! God bless you for your generosity and inspiration.
2015-03-03 18:58:38
Jesus of Nazareth~The Life of Our Lord for Children looks wonderful! All of the book selections for your dear children will make such special Easter gifts. Books are the most wonderful gifts for our children…the stories take them to so many enchanting places. ~Debbie
2015-03-03 18:59:26
I LOVE your book basket posts! I have ordered so many books from your recommendations, and I have never been disappointed. It's so hard to choose a favorite from this list, but I think my 6 year old daughter would LOVE the St. Therese paper dolls!
2015-03-03 19:13:45
Thanks again for the excellent book list! I have been searching for an illustrated copy of The Wind in the Willows. I love the illustrations by Inga Moore, but also read that it was an abridged copy with entire chapters left out. I have resisted purchasing for this reason. Can you tell me your thoughts and whether or not this is true? Thanks!
2015-03-03 19:41:37
Yes, it is abridged… Here is an excerpt from a review I read from a blog called Read-Aloud Dad while researching the book: "As far as I determined, the Inga Moore illustrated version leaves out several chapters – instead of re-writing the entire Kenneth Grahame masterpiece. The bulk of Kenneth Grahame's text is retained, however some chapters have been axed. Yet, that means that the wonderful language of the original has not been dumbed down to '21st century English' – it remains its classical appeal."
I ended up choosing this version anyway, even though it is missing some chapters, since my daughter absolutely loves illustrations by Inga Moore. She received The Secret Garden illustrated by Inga Moore for Christmas in 2013 and it is still one of her favorites. I posted a few pictures of the illustrations here. They are gorgeous!
I found it interesting that when the book was originally published in 1908 it did not include illustrations! The publisher suggested adding the illustrations by E.H. Shepard in 1931. I did consider purchasing The Centennial Anniversary Edition and perhaps giving it to our 7 year old (instead of our 9 year old daughter) but the Inga Moore illustrations won. 🙂
You'll have to let me know if you find a favorite unabridged copy for your family!
2015-03-03 20:22:59
You always find such lovely books! My oldest daughter just devours stories of saints, so I think "Sixty Saints for Girls" would be a good one for our library.
2015-03-03 19:58:04
So many of these look wonderful!
I love the Imitation of Christ, and have given it as a gift several times, but I'll have to look up My Daily Bread.
I am definitely interested in On Easter Day in the Morning as well as the Life of St. Benedict for my kids.
2015-03-03 19:59:28
Oh how I love your book posts! Yeah!! The book "A Doll for Marie" sounds lovely for my Elizabeth Marie! Thanks Jessica!
2015-03-03 20:01:14
I'm interested in the Sisters of the Last Straw series!
2015-03-03 20:11:03
I love seeing all of your book lists. I love too many to comment on all of them, but the Crusader King would be a great addition to our own personal library.
2015-03-03 20:13:59
Thanks for all the great suggestions – I've added some to my wishlist!
2015-03-03 20:27:24
Those look like some great book choices! Thanks for sharing them!
2015-03-03 20:44:19
Thank you so much for a chance to win a book- we love books!!! We have many of the same ones you have and we always look forward to your suggestions for new ones. Many of these are new to us so we like them all. God bless you and all you do!
2015-03-03 21:01:34
we would love to win a book basket. I love looking at your book basket lists and adding them to my wish lists!
2015-03-03 21:12:02
So many good books! Snuggles is going to enjoy the Knight's Tales. My son just checked the compilation of audiobooks out from the library, again. I think we have it at our home more than its in the library.
2015-03-03 21:41:29
What a beautiful collection of books! I would love to share them with our family!
2015-03-03 21:57:26
I am most interested in the St. Augustine Press books because we LOVE their selections but don't have any of theirs yet!
2015-03-03 22:32:20
I think I will as The Easter Story to our Easter basket
2015-03-04 01:50:14
My favorites would be Rose Round (for my daughter) and Farmer Giles or the LEGO book (for my son). Thank you for the chance to win!
2015-03-04 02:25:24
Wonderful list! Thank you, as always.
2015-03-04 02:34:37
We have the old editions of Sixty Saints for Girls and the boy's version too. The kids really like them. The Imitation of Christ and Daily Bread are some favorites here too. My girls would really enjoy reading Rose Round and the book by Mother Mary Loyola looks good. Oh, thanks for the list……I have lots of avid readers here and always on the look out for more good titles. Thanks!
2015-03-04 03:51:55
Thank you! The book list looks excellent!
2015-03-04 04:04:04
Wow…I feel like Lent just started….I guess I should give some thought to Easter!
2015-03-04 05:27:48
We have the way of the cross for children. I would love to give it to one of my godchildren.
2015-03-04 08:00:32
I always love your book lists!
2015-03-04 13:06:54
Thanks for the giveaway!
2015-03-04 13:47:20
My Daily Bread is a wonderful book that I read every morning and want to give to my older children as well. We also have the St. Therese paper dolls, my older girls loved them when they were little and I'm saving them for when my toddler gets a little older.
2015-03-04 13:50:52
I would love to see Jesus of Nazareth: The Life of Our Lord for Children. I have ordered some of Mother Loyola's books from them before and I would love to add to the collection!
2015-03-04 15:16:59
They all look so wonderful (LOVED The Rose Round as a kid!), but I would particularly like to see The Life of St. Benedict. Thanks for the giveaway!
2015-03-04 17:55:29
tiny stitches looks so adorable and right up my alley!
2015-03-04 19:46:06
I would love any of the books, but especially the Gloria series books or the St. Therese Paper dolls
2015-03-04 19:59:02
I would love to win one of these! I have read four chapters of Crusader King and have been dying to finish it. The other ones all sound amazing as well!!
2015-03-04 21:26:21
I always enjoy your booklists. Thank you!!
2015-03-05 02:40:46
All of these look great! You are one of my go to resources for good books!
2015-03-05 02:41:58
There are SO many books in this post I want to get for my kids. I want the Lego book and the dollar origami book. I'd love the Easter story and the St Therese paper dolls…. All of them! I want all the books! 🙂
2015-03-05 02:46:54
Thank you, the prizes are great!
2015-03-05 06:07:49
This is awesome! You are such a wonderful and thoughtful mother!
2015-03-05 17:30:57
Great giveaway!!!!!
2015-03-06 00:04:35
You have found so many great books for boys! With four of them, it's difficult to find new ones. Thank you for sharing your list! A Child's Book of Warriors will be added to our Easter basket without a doubt.
2015-03-06 20:27:47
So wholesome and inspirational as always. You are such an instrument of grace!
2015-03-06 21:27:15
amazing list of books. Thank you!
2015-03-07 02:17:40
I love The Rose Round and Imitation of Christ. I have 5 kids 6 and under so I love getting me ideas to fuel the flame of the love of God and a love of reading. Thank you.
2015-03-07 03:25:02
When I click on a title/link and it takes me to Amazon, how do I know that you will receive commission. Just want to make sure I'm doing it write so you can make some money too!! The list is awesome thank you for sharing
2015-03-07 07:50:16
Thank you, Marie!
All the links to Amazon in this post should have my affiliate information embedded in them, if you look closely at the url when you first click over you should see "shoofros" somewhere in there…
According to Amazon, the purchases that qualify for commission are those that occur after a customer clicks through a link on my website and then adds a book/item (of their choice – it doesn't need to be the item they clicked) to the shopping cart… Anything that was in the shopping cart already doesn't qualify). However, if you add the item to your shopping cart, after clicking a link here, you have 89 days to complete the purchase for me to receive commission (usually 7-8%) on that particular book/item. (If someone adds a book to their wish list I would only receive the commission if they came back and clicked over again before adding it to their cart.)
Thanks again, to you and everyone else who uses the affiliate links here! It is such a blessing!
2015-03-07 08:15:35
Thanks for the giveaway and all the wonderful recommendations!
2015-03-07 12:47:46
Can't wait for my little Theresa Rose to be big enough for the St. Therese paper dolls!
2015-03-07 15:30:17
So many great books! I think my boys would love the all of the Tolkien books (I am currently making a Hobbit birthday:) Imitation of Christ is a definite must read for everyone! I really love the St. Augustine Academy Press books, and I always like to find new saint books! God bless, and thanks!
2015-03-07 17:49:34
Wow! What great lists. Those St. THerese dolls are adorable:)
2015-03-08 01:30:42
I love all the books! We don't have any of those (I think we had St. Therese paper dolls when my now adult daughter was younger). Can I pick "want to purchase all but probably can not afford to?" I have children at home and 8 grandchildren with 1 on the way. Any one of those prizes would go to one of their Easter Baskets.
2015-03-08 02:14:36
This is a great list! I'm most interested in the Saint Benedict as he is one of our family's favorite saints. Also, I hadn't heard of the Tolkien book and we're excited to check it out. I read the Hobbit to my son this past fall.
2015-03-08 16:15:53
So many great titles!
2015-03-09 00:23:58
I love all your books that you have in the basket. You give me great ideas for my children. I made a basket for us to read together and for them to read by themselves.
2015-03-09 04:28:15
You always have great book suggestions. I don't know how you have time to find them all and make a blog post but thank you!
2015-03-09 20:13:31
I'd love to purchase the Life of St. Benedict for my nephews.
2015-03-10 02:34:26
thanks!
2015-03-10 02:37:31
I would love them all! But I'll say "A nest for celeste" 🙂
2015-03-11 22:04:33
Great basket of books!
2015-03-11 22:35:54
Always love your book lists . Thanks for the giveaway 🙂
2015-03-11 22:38:49
Thank you for such a great giveaway!
2015-03-11 23:01:17
Thank you for all of your wonderful recommendations! I love seeing all of the wonderful books for boys!!
I didn't see anywhere that this contest is for USA residents only, so I went ahead and entered. I hope that's OK!
2015-03-11 23:25:50
Such a great giveaway! Thank you!
2015-03-11 23:53:51
I would love the St. Benedict book!
2015-03-12 00:06:37
Wonderful selection, but my favorites are 3 and 5. Thank you for hosting!
2015-03-12 02:11:31
What a wonderful list of books. So inspiring!
2015-03-12 04:16:17
I would like to read Christians Courageous, I'm looking of a novel about early church history to use with my 8th grade class next year.
2015-03-12 05:36:17
Thank you and God bless
2015-03-12 06:26:35
Can I be one of your children ? This is amazing thank you so much for posting this !
2015-03-12 20:00:00
I am most interested in the Way of the Cross for Children – would like to share that with my children.
2015-03-12 21:53:22
Just ordered On Easter Day in the Morning and can't wait to read it to my three littles on Easter! Thank you for so many wonderful recommendations Jessica!
2015-03-13 03:40:40