The Holman Christian Standard Journaling Bible

Recently, I received a complimentary copy of the Holman Christian Standard Journaling Bible from B H Publishing Group. 

I was pleasantly surprised when I opened the box and removed the Bible. The Bible cover is a hardback black, with textured insets of brown leather like material. It is approximately 6 1/2 inches wide by 8 1/2 inches high. The stitching along the cover is done in an attractive ivory thread and gives nice detailing to the book. The spine is inscribed in gold leaf with the HCSB logo as well as the words, Journaling Bible. Upon opening the Bible, I find the pages easily lay flat, unlike other journaling Bibles I have reviewed. 

The pages of the Bible are ivory colored with s single column of Scripture along the inside of each page. A lined column compliments the outer edge of each column of Scripture providing the perfect amount of space to record special insights and personal thoughts. For those who love to art journal, these wide columns would provide ample space for artwork too.

This Bible contains a well organized concordance, eight detailed four color maps, an annual Bible reading plan, a ribbon bookmark, a presentation page and an introduction to the Holman Christian Standard Bible. 

The HCSB Journaling Bible is very well made and would make a wonderful gift presentation. The lay flat pages make it unique and provide an easy way to document thoughts or questions. I would highly recommend this Bible for anyone interested in learning more about God's Word. 

I would like to thank B H Publishing Group for providing me with this copy of the Holman Christian Standard Bible to review. 

© bonnie annis 2015

The Prince Who Was Just Himself

I received a complimentary copy of The Prince Who Was Just Himself written by Silke Schnee and illustrated by Heike Sistig today from Plough Publishing. This is a sweet children's book and deals with a sensitive subject, Down's syndrome, in a most delightful way.

The story opens as the King and Queen are expecting a new baby. They already have two sons but when the new one arrives, the find he is quite unusual and different. They aren't quite sure what to think and decide to love him just because he is their son. As the child, Prince Noah, grows, they find he is a very quiet, caring child. They love to watch him out in the sunshine just enjoying nature.

The story continues and the King and Queen discover through one specific event that their child, Prince Noah, has unique abilities to soften people's hearts. The inhabitants of the kingdom realize this child is a blessing and quickly accept him as a vital part of the community.

Down's syndrome is an evident chromosomal defect. Society doesn't readily accept these children and often view them as mentally retarded. The author of this book is the parent of a Down's Syndrome child. She wanted to showcase his sensitive heart in this story.

I enjoyed reading this little book and think it will help soften a difficult subject with children of all ages. It will also help children understand that just because someone is different doesn't mean they are unlovable.

This book is suitable for children of all ages but would be best understood by children aged 7-12.