The Grace Effect - A Review and Giveaway

The Grace Effect
Larry Alex Taunton, 2011
Thomas Nelson, Inc.
ISBN:  978-1-5955-5440-6
$16.99 (may vary depending on where purchased)

Buy the book here


What exactly is the "grace effect"?

“Simply defined, the ‘grace effect’ is an observable phenomenon—that life is demonstrably better where authentic Christianity flourishes.” Larry Taunton, author, The Grace Effect

Would the world be a better place without Christianity?  Historian and Christian apologist Larry Taunton has spent much of his career refuting that idea.  Mr. Taunton describes meeting Sasha, a golden-haired orphan girl whose life has been shaped by atheistic theorists.  When he and his family decide to get to know Sasha and adopt her he discovers the transforming power of grace.

The Grace Effect describes the false promises of socialism, the influence of unbelief, and the story of Sasha’s redemption.  The reader is able to see the false promises of socialism and the soul-destroying influence of unbelief.  Mr. Taunton shows us the kind of world the atheists would give us--cold, pitiless, and graceless.

This is an excellent book about a true story.  It gives a very realistic picture of a very sad situation in Ukraine, the orphanage/adoption system.  Obviously I won't give away the ending, but I think you'll find the story quite inspiring.

It's a Giveaway!!

Want to find out more about what happens?  You can do that very easily--just enter my giveaway.  This is one you don't want to miss!

How to Enter: 

1. To have a chance to win a copy of The Grace Effect just leave me a comment on this blog about your favorite inspirational story.

2. For a second entry tell me your favorite inspirational author. 

I will be drawing a winner randomly from all entries on Saturday, December 17th at noon.  Good luck!  Blessings!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”





For more information about this book and others visit Fixed Point here
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Find the book at Amazon

Parts + Pieces = Whole -- Fractazmic TOS Review

Fractazmic
I See Cards
Contact Info:  corporate@iseecards.com
                      Fax: 407-366-3343

For More Information or to check out other I See Cards products, such as Pyramath,  visit here
To Order Fractazmic click here

Price: $6.95
Age Range: Grades 1-8

Lately we're learning the "whole" picture of manipulating fractions using a fun card game developed by I See Cards.  As a member of the TOS Review Crew I received a free deck of Fractazmic cards to use in order to provide this review.  This game is definitely a "keeper".

The Fractazmic deck contains 60 colorful cards which are clearly numbered and clearly labeled with a fraction and a reinforcing graphic.

This is a 2-4 player game in which players try to gather as many hands as possible before one player runs out of cards.  The interesting part is the capture of a hand in a round.  In order to gather a hand a player must play a card that brings the sum of all cards thrown to 1 (a whole) or force the next player to use a card that takes the sum over 1.

This game teaches players to quickly identify fractions and then convert and add them.  The cards reinforce the relationship between fractions and measurements, and the colorful graphics shows real-world use of fractions.

My "Whole" Opinion of this Game:  We really like this game.  The game is easy to play and doesn't take very long.  The longer we played the faster we all became at converting and adding fractions at a quick pace.  This is a great practice tool to use while learning about fractions.  I like the illustrations on the cards too.  The illustrations provide plenty of conversation opportunities related to everyday things which involve measuring and fractions.  (6/12 or 1/2 dozen eggs for example)  The age range given is appropriate for this game.  (My 14 year old daughter frequently wins when playing with dad.  (He told me he's not just letting her win either!)  We will be bringing out this game frequently for review of basic fraction information.  My 1/3 + my daughter's 1/3 + my husband's 1/3 = A "Whole" lot of fun and learning!  The price on this game is very reasonable for the learning it provides.

If you'd like to find out what other TOS Review Crew members had to say about Fractazmic click here .

Disclaimer:  As a member of the TOS Review Crew I received a free deck of the above-mentioned cards in order to provide this honest review.  I have not and will not receive further compensation.  Thoughts, opinions and comments here are my own.  I am not obligated to provide a positive review.

Ready, Set, Fling - Trebuchet and Catapult - TOS Review

Pitsco Education, Inc.
P.O. Box 1708
Pittsburg, KS 66762-1708
http://www.pitsco.com/

http://shop.pitsco.com/ for information/catalog/ordering

$21.95
geared to Middle School - High School

How many times have you told your children not to throw things in the house?  That has to be one of the most frustrating things with my little guy during winter.  You should have seen the expression on his face when his sister got to "fling" clay balls across the dining room and living room.  Actually, you can see it below.  This picture was followed by "Do it again, do it again!" and "Wow, cool!" (Pay no attention to the stuff behind them -- my kids always put their stuff away.) (wink, nudge, roll eyes)  One of the best parts of this whole process was that his sister was learning math and science at the same time.  Yes, it was another one of those moments where I'm glad I'm a member of the TOS Review Crew. 

So, what is that thing he's fascinated by in the picture?  It's a trebuchet, a medieval siege machine--a type of catapult.  It uses counterweights to provide the power to fling objects using weight, gravity and a lever.

As a member of the Crew I received a free Pitsco Trebuchet and Catapult Kit to use in order to provide this review.  The kit included: a Trebuchet Kit, a Catapult Kit, a Siege Machines book, weights and modeling clay.  The book contains assembly directions and experiments.  The materials used were laser-cut basswood, assorted hardware, fine string, clay and paper.  There was some assembly required, mostly cutting and gluing.  In addition, a minimal number of tools are required to complete assembly of the two machines.  (Pliers, ruler, scissors, glue, scale, tape, calculator, hobby knife, rubber bands and a number of other small items.)

Since my machinist husband is much more mechanically inclined than this mom he helped with this project.  (Please note, this is an educational kit--not a toy.  It is meant to be used as a learning tool with adult supervision.  That doesn't mean that it's boring though.  I'm pretty sure my husband enjoyed this as much as the children.) 

First dad and daughter constructed the model trebuchet and the model catapult.  Then they discussed science concepts such as elasticity, projectile motion and kinetic energy.  The also talked about speed, mass, force, altitude, velocity, math and design modifications.  Then the flinging began!  Finding the maximum throwing distance for the Trebuchet is what was happening in the picture above.
Pitsco is a new favorite at our house.  The pack that we received sells for $21.95, but other more detailed kits are available at other prices.  The more expensive package contains more in-depth teacher/curriculum guides with another 20+ hours of material.
Dad, mom, daughter and son all give these kits a thumbs up.  There's a lot of learning in the kits.  The price is very reasonable for the contents and quality.  My husband really liked working with the basswood.  Both my daughter and my husband thought the age range for this kit was appropriate.  We all agreed that the information discussed during the whole process was very educational.  All in all, this was "a hit" at our house.  I suspect it will be "Do it again!" time around here for a while.  Now we just need to get back to the history part of the Medieval period and seiges.  Maybe some fun costumes would help?  Ooh, sounds like a sewing project, more up this mom's alley.

To see what other TOS Review Crew members had to say click here

Disclaimer:  As a member of the TOS Homeschool Review Crew I received the above-mentioned products free in order to provide this honest review.  I did not and will not receive further compensation.  Thoughts, opinions, comments are my own.  I am not obligated to provide a positive review.

Don't Know Much About Art? Dive into Artistic Pursuits - TOS Review

Artistic Pursuits
2626 East 109th Avenue
North Glenn, CO  80233
(303)467-0504
alltheanswers@artisticpursuits.com
http://www.artisticpursuits.com/
$42.95

Jr. High level
(PreK-12th grade available) 

Are you clueless about the basics of art?  Do you wish you had a primer to walk you through all those artistic concepts like space, texture, form, value, dimensions, balance, perspective and proportion?  Perhaps you should check out Artistic Pursuits.  As a member of the TOS Review Crew I received a copy of Artistic Pursuits--Junior High Book One--The Elements of Art and Composition by Brenda Ellis to use in order to provide this review.  Take a peek at what we found.

The first part of "Getting Started" contains a Table of Contents, a list of required Art Supplies, What Parents Want to Know and What Students Want to Know.  (The required supplies are minimal and easily found.)

So, what exactly does this book cover?

The Elements of Art

Space, Line, Texture, Shape, Form, Value and Line in 3 Dimensions

Composition

Visual Paths in Line, Center of Interest, Balance-Symmetry, Balance-Asymmetry, Rhythm, Space Without Depth, Space With Depth, Perspective and Proportion

Each unit of the book consists of 4 Lessons.  The First Lesson of a unit is all about Building a Visual Vocabulary.  The topic is explained in words and pictures, followed by observation and connection to real-world experiences.  The student then creates a work of art.  The Second Lesson is about Art Appreciation and Art History.  Students learn about how masters use a particular topic in a work of art.  The student then takes their observations and creates a work of art.  The Third Lesson of each unit is about Techniques.  Students learn how to use different materials and tools while making original art.  Finally, the Fourth Lesson of each unit is about Application.  Students get to complete a final project which uses the new techniques and topic information while using a variety of references like still life objects, landscapes, portraits and photographs.

The author suggests doing a couple of classes per week for about an hour each.  Completed this way, the material can be covered over 32 weeks or a full school year.  The book is non-consumable so you can use it again with another student.  Students can work fairly independently with this program. 

Artistic Pursuits has books available for all ages, PreK-12th grade.  To check out more information for this and other Artistic Pursuits books as well as art supply packs click here to visit the website.

My Thoughts:  I like this book.  The basics are covered and described in an easy to understand format.  I like that the book is written to the student and can be used fairly independently.  It's amazing what you're more aware of when you try to see art in everyday things.  My daughter liked the way the book progressed and the topics it covered.  I found myself wishing we had more time to spend with this one.  I'm thinking we'll backtrack and put in more time as we can.  The Culture and Artist parts of the lessons are quite informative and definitely add some interesting background.  It was fun to see many works of art throughout the book too.  This is not a book for someone looking for little art projects to do.  This book will help you and your child to know the finer points of "art".  Having taken an Art Appreciation class at a college level, I am impressed with the method this book presents.  We also found that it was fine to start at this level without having used the earlier level books.  Great job Artistic Pursuits!

**Another great point - If for any reason you are not satisfied with the book or art supply pack you order, Artistic Pursuits Inc. will refund the cost (shipping not included) when your items are returned in unused condition within 30 days.**

If you'd like to see what other TOS Crew members thought of this and other levels of Artistic Pursuits books click here

Disclaimer:  I received a free copy of the above-mentioned product from Artistic Pursuits in order to provide this review.  As a member of the TOS Review Crew I receive free products such as this one to provide reviews.  I have not and will not receive further compensation.   Observations, comments and opinions presented here are my own.  I am not obligated to provide a positive review.



Wow, Check out this Toydle Giveaway from The Old Schoolhouse!!

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine is giving away 

3 Big Toydle Forts.

(yup, that's a picture of the frame right down there)

Is this fun or what?  Three lucky winners will have fun with the toy every kid (and kid-at-heart) would love to own.  To find out more information about this Toydle product and enter the giveaway Stop by the TOS Crew blog.    

You can also visit Toydle on Facebook here .

NOTE:  This contest is open to residents of the United States ONLY.  TOS Staff and TOS Crew Members (and their families) are not eligible to enter this contest.

What a wonderful Christmas, birthday or just-for-fun gift for anyone!  Click now, what are you waiting for?  

The Reading Game - A TOS Review

Allsaid & Dunn

2727 De Anza RD, Suite SD21
San Diego, CA 92109
858-412-3442
info@thereadinggame.com

$24.95 each - 15% off orders of 8 or more
Suggested age - Pre-K through 1st grade


Recently we've been playing a new educational game with our son.  As a member of the TOS Review Crew I received a free copy of The Reading Game to use in order to provide this review.

The Reading Game is a curriculum supplement to use while teaching your child to read.  The game contains six illustrated storybooks: skunk, snake, bear, penguins, unicorn, and zebra.  Each of the books comes with a word matching card game.  The games are played in six stages, each of which teaches five words. The card game requires only two players, the student and a tutor.  The games are fast paced, with a winner every few seconds, and learning to read becomes fun.

When your child completes stage six of the first game they should be able to read thirty words.  The first story is told using those thirty words.  The first story is about a skunk without a stripe who is rejected for being different.  The skunk is accepted by a group of cats and becomes their defender.  Your child adds another thirty words with each game.  It’s told in rhyme, is beautifully illustrated, and is 32 pages long. It will be the first book the student reads, and there are five more to follow.

By the time your child gets through all of the games they should be able to read 180 words.  Of the twenty-five most commonly used English words, twenty-two are on that list; of the forty most commonly used English words –thirty. This is a multi-sensory teaching approach –using the card game play and the storybooks - designed to aid in retention of material and student enjoyment.

Free Individual Student Assessment Worksheets are include to help you see and keep track of your child's progress. There is a Pre/Post Card Game Sight Word Assessment Worksheet and a Test Sentence Assessment Worksheet.  At the back of the Teacher and Parent Guide is a list of all 180-vocabulary words.

According to the makers of the game, "By the time students come to the end of the zebra story, 180 words are hard-wired into memory."

• 60% of the words in “The Reading Game” are on the Dolch Word List for pre-k and k and makes up 54% of Dolch words for Pre-K, K and 1st Grade.

• Of the first 100 most commonly used English words “The Reading Game” incorporates 88% of the most common twenty-five words and 63% of the first 100.


Contents include: 6 illustrated story books, 6 decks of matching playing cards,  a Teacher and Parent's Guide



So, how did this work for us?  We all like this game.  My little non-reader is becoming a reader--slowly, but in a fun way.  The multi-sensory approach of the game connects for him.  He feels like he is accomplishing something and "winning", and we see that he is memorizing words and beginning to try to read.  He loves to find the word matches.  He loves animals.  The best part, he now wants to figure out more words and constantly asks "What do those letters say?"  We're not done with all of the games yet, but I'm thinking he'll be reading at a good basic level by the time we read the last story.  We'll continue to play this game for reinforcement until he's very comfortable reading.  What a fun way to learn what could be a tough subject!  It's a keeper!  (Wish we would have had this game for my daughter when she started reading.)  The age range is appropriate.  The price is reasonable for the content and quality of the game. 

To find out more about the game click here

To order The Reading Game click here

Click here to see what other members from the TOS Crew had to say about The Reading Game.

Disclaimer:  As a member of the TOS Review Crew I received a free copy of the above-mentioned product to use in order to provide this review.  I did not and will not receive further compensation.  All comments and opinions are my own.  I am not obligated to provide a positive review.

Math Mammoth - About "Time" for a Review

Math Mammoth Clock (Blue Series)

www.mathmammoth.com 

We've been using a fun curriculum from Math Mammoth to learn about clocks, telling time, and using a calendar.    Let me tell you about it.

 Math Mammoth Clock (Blue Series) is a 78 page worktext (including answers), suitable for grades 1-3, that covers:

• Whole and Half Hours
• Half and Quarter Hours
• How Many Minutes Pass
• Using Calendar

In the book there are explanations and exercises.  The book really requires very little teacher preparation--very easy to use.  By the time you're done your student will be able to read a clock, figure out time intervals, and use the calendar.  Since this book contains grades 1-3 and progresses as you go it's easy to have your child work on different sections at different times as they are able.

Fore example: 1st grade contains reading the clock to the 1/2 hour, 2nd grade contains reading the clock to the 5 minute intervals, 3rd grade contains reading the clock to the minute.

**You will need a practice clock where the child can turn the clock hands.

There is a PDF download available for $4.00.  A black and white printed copy is available for $10.85, and new in November 2011 is a PDF version of the book enabled for annotation.  (Yes that means you can have your student fill it in on the computer!)

Keep it or Leave it?  Well, I really liked this worktext.  The explanations are easy, and we progressed quickly.  My daughter fully understood each section without much effort on my part.  Good job Math Mammoth!  The many examples and questions were easy to work through--and, although I didn't need it much I liked that the answers were included too.  I was glad this included calendar information to round out the whole "time" concept.  This got a thumbs up at our house.  We've also checked out the 300 free worksheets and samples.  We have a few of the the Math Mammoth products and will probably be using more.  If you're even slightly considering the program it's worth visiting the website to check out all options and prices/discounts.

Other products from Math Mammoth include the Blue Series (work texts by topic) and the Green Series (work sheet collections by topic).  Math Mammoth covers:

Addition & Subtraction

Addition 1 worktext (grade 1)

Subtraction 1 worktext (grade 1)

Add & Subtract 2-A worktext (grades 1-2)

Add & Subtract 2-B worktext (grade 2)

Add & Subtract 3 worktext (grades 2-3)

Add & Subtract 4 worktext (grades 3-4)

Place Value

Place Value 1 worktext (grade 1)

Place Value 2 worktext (grade 2)

Place Value 3 worktext (grade 3)

Place Value 4 worktext (grade 4)

Place Value 5 worktext (grades 5-6)

Multiplication & Division

Multiplication 1 worktext (grade 3)

Division 1 worktext (grade 3)

Multiplication 2 worktext (grade 4)

Division 2 worktext (grade 4)

Multiplication Division 3 worktext (grade 5)

Multiplication & Division worksheets (grades 3-6)

Numbers & Operations worksheets (grades 3-6)

Clock and Money

Clock worktext (grades 1-3)

U.S. Money worktext (grades 1-3)

Canadian Money worktext (grades 1-3)

British Money worktext (years 2-4)

European Money worktext (grades 1-3)

Australian Money worktext (years 1-3)

Measuring

Measuring 1 worktext (grades 1-3)

Measuring 2 worktext (grades 4-5)

Metric Measuring worktext (grades 1-4)

Measuring worksheets (grades 3-6)

Fractions

Introduction to Fractions worktext (grades 2-4)

Fractions 1 worktext (grades 5-6)

Fractions 2 worktext (grades 5-6)

Fractions & Decimals 3 worktext (grade 6)

Fractions worksheets (grades 3-6)

Decimals

Decimals 1 worktext (grades 4-5)

Decimals 2 worktext (grades 5-6)

Fractions & Decimals 3 worktext (grade 6)

Decimals worksheets (grades 3-6)

Geometry

Early Geometry worktext (grades 1-3)

Geometry 1 worktext (grades 4-5)

Geometry 2 worktext (grades 6-7)

Geometry worksheets (grades 3-7)

Ratio, Proportions, Percent & algebraic thinking

The Four Operations (with a Touch of Algebra) worktext (grades 5-7)

Ratios & Proportions & Problem Solving worktext (grades 5-7)

Percent worktext (grades 6-8)

Integers worktext (grades 5-8)

Ratio, Proportion & Percent worksheets (grades 5-7)

Integers worksheets (grades 5-8)

Statistics / Graphing / Probability

Statistics & Probability worktext (grades 5-7)

Statistics worksheets (grades 4-7)

Make It Real Learning

States by the Numbers series (grades 3-6)

Arithmetic I (grades 3-6)

Fractions, Percents, and Decimals I (grades 4-8)

Fractions, Percents, and Decimals II (grades 4-8)

Sets, Probability, and Statistics I (grades 6-10)

Linear Functions I (grades 9, 11)

Linear Functions II (grade 11)

Quadratic Functions I (grades 9, 11)

Exponential & Logarithmic Functions I (grades 11-12)

Periodic & Piecewise Functions I (grades 11-12)

Polynomial, Power, Logistic & Rational Functions I (grades 11-12)

Calculus I (grade 12)

You can even get a complete curriculum for individual grades 1-6, pre-algebra, and grade 3-7 worksheets collections.  Pre-algebra and Algebra 1 worksheets collections are also available. 

If all that information above confused you stop by Math Mammoth and sign up for a 7-day virtual email tour which includes a package of over 300 free worksheets and sample pages, 7 individual emails on 7 subsequent days  answering the most commonly asked questions, and a math newsletter.

If you're interested in reading more about the Math Mammoth options and what the TOS Homeschool Review Crew thinks click here  

Disclaimer:  As a member of the TOS Review Crew I occasionally receive free products to use to provide candid reviews.  I receive no further compensation for my reviews.  Thoughts and comments are my own.  I am not obligated to provide positive reviews.

Guess Who'll Be Visiting the Christmas Lodge?

Oh Trina, you won!!  You'll be receiving a free copy of The Christmas Lodge DVD.  Watch for an e-mail to confirm your mailing address.  Congratulations and Blessings to those who entered.

College Prep Genius - VocabCafe - A TOS Review

Vocab Cafe
Maven of Memory Publishing
www.vocabcafe.com




College Prep Genius
P.O. Box 398
Hurst, TX 76053
81-SAT-2-PREP (817-282-7737)
info@collegeprepgenius.com

No particular recommended age, but since this is a college prep program I think 8th grade and up would be appropriate.

$12.95 per individual book
(set of all 4 available for price of 3 - $38.85 - see link below)

As a member of the TOS Review Crew I recently received a set of 4 Vocab Cafe books from College Prep Genius to read in order to provide this review.  This set of 4 books is interesting, challenging and educational.  The series contains 4 novellas written to encourage the development of vocabulary knowledge.  Each book in the series contains 300 words which should improve the reader's vocabulary.  This increased vocabulary can lead to better reading, writing, and speaking skills and can even improve standardized test scores.  Within each story the reader sees the vocabulary words in the context of a narrative story.  Storyline and sentences around the vocabulary word help readers figure out the meanings.  Pronunciation and definition of the words are at the bottom of each page, and at the end of each chapter is a review of the words in that section.

These novellas are original stories which contain no foul language, no illicit sexual themes, and no sorcery.  The books emphasize a 3 step approach using definition, repetition, and reinforcement.

Since the books are fairly short I don't want to ruin the experience by telling too much, but here's a teaser for each book:

• IM for Murder is a story of three boys and their encounter with an internet serial killer.  This story teaches a lesson about online communication.  This story might be a little "dark" for some readers.

• Operation High School is a story about high school student Emma Jones and the mysterious note which turns her world upside down. As the newest member of a “Spy Club,” Emma learns about self-reliance, strength, and the value of friendship.

• Planet Exile is a story about Maleck Vise Plutean's adventures through outer space. After a crash landing on the mythical “Planet Exile”, Maleck and his friends usurp an evil dictator and rescue a beautiful princess.

• Summer of St. Nick is a story about Nick's discovery of a jackpot of money.  He has to decide whether he will use this cash to better his social standing or help those who really need it.

Special Deal:  To order the 4 books from College Prep Genius for the price of 3 ($38.85 instead of $51.80) click here .

College Prep Genius also sells the “Master the SAT Class” on DVD  for $59.95, the textbook, College Prep Genius for $49.95, and the class workbook for $19.95.  For more information or to order these materials see the College Prep Genius link above.

Keep or Pass?  These stories were interesting enough to keep my daughter wanting to read more.  She learned lots of new words.  I have to admit, however, that she did ask when in real life she would actually use many of the words.  The Vocab Cafe books are a better option for increasing vocabulary than staring at a list of words.  Although not done with all 4 books, my bookworm wants to continue through all of the books.  That makes me smile--getting started on them met a bit of attitude because of fear that they would be like a textbook.  We liked the books and will probably read through them again a few times.   We'll keep these to use again later in college testing prep too since the bookworm is only 14.  The books are worth the price and reading time if you're trying to boost vocabulary skills.  Thanks Vocab Cafe for a fun way to learn some valuable information!

Interested in what other TOS Review Crew members thought?  Click here .

Disclaimer:  As a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received a free set of 4 Vocab Cafe books from College Prep Genius to read in order to provide this review.  I did not and will not receive further compensation.  All comments and opinions are my own.  I am not obligated to provide a positive review.

The Christmas Lodge - DVD Review and Giveaway

Christmas Lodge - A DVD Review and Giveaway

Thomas Kinkade

It seems that every year there are a number of new Christmas movies.  We recently watched our first one for the year.  Here's a bit about the Christmas Lodge DVD from Thomas Kinkade. 

"A place where a heart-warming past and loving future meet for one remarkable group of people."  (That's how the beginning for the synopsis of this movie reads.) 

Picture a trip to the mountains, an unplanned visit to a favorite childhood place, and the renewal of faith and discovery of love.

Mary is a young woman who happens upon a hurt little girl while on a weekend trip to the mountains.  When Mary takes the girl home she finds herself at Christmas Lodge, a place where Mary's family and grandparents went for Christmas during her childhood.  Unfortunately the lodge is in need of many repairs.  Mary decides to help the owner restore the lodge to it's previous condition.  During the restoration process Mary renews her faith, finds her one true love and is reminded about the importance of family and true holiday spirit.

We really enjoyed this movie.  It is very family-friendly and contains no offensive language or scenes.  The scenery is beautiful!  The acting and filming were superb.  This will be a new favorite Christmas movie at our house.

Visit the Official DVD Website for Christmas Lodge here .  You'll find more information about the movie, meet the cast, go behind the scenes and find a print offer for the Christmas Lodge picture by Mr. Kinkade.  You can also see a trailer for the movie!

"For an uplifting story about the importance of faith, family and the true holiday spirit, go to the Christmas Lodge."
You can order the DVD online from Amazon or Walmart, or purchase it where inspirational films are found.

For more information about the Christmas Lodge artwork click here

Lucky you, I get to give a copy away!  If you'd like to enter to win this in time for Christmas here's what you need to do:

1. Visit the Christmas Lodge website then leave a comment here about something that looked interesting about the movie or the artwork.
2.  For another chance to win follow me on Google Friend Connect and leave a comment here. (or tell me you already follow)
3.  For a third chance to win comment about one of my other reviews that you found interesting.
4.  For a final entry, leave a comment here telling me the name of your favorite Christmas movie.

(A winner will be chosen randomly from all entries at noon on November 15th.)

Good luck and Blessings to all who enter!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Person I Marry - A TOS Review

The Person I Marry – Things I’ll Think About Long Before Saying “I Do”  

Written by Gary Bower
Featuring the Oil Paintings of Jan Bower

Storybook Meadow Publishing Company
7700 Timbers Tr.
Traverse City, Michigan 49684
Phone: 231-941-0899
Orders: 888-898-3207 * Fax: 231-947-8903
**A Bright Future Book
Printed and bound in Canada
ISBN-13: 978-0-9704621-7-6
ISBN-10: 0-9704621-7-4
$11.99
All Ages

Visit Bower Books
Click here to see book reviews

We recently received a free e-book version of the sweetest book I've read in a very long time.  Let me tell you about The Person I Marry by Gary and Jan Bower.

Gary Bower has written this story in verse form, and Jan Bower has done beautiful oil paintings to illustrate the ideas in the book.  This wonderful book is about all of the things to think about before getting married--the important "internal" stuff.  The story begins with a girl going to a wedding and being captivated by the dresses, tuxes, rings, candles, curls and floral bouquets.  The girl's very wise mom sits and tells her daughter about the "who" rather than the "what" that makes a great wedding.  She reminds her daughter that the person you marry is the important part of a wedding.

The girl then ponders all of the important internal qualities to consider about the person she'll marry including qualities such as:  sincerity, kindness, courteousness, graciousness, tactfulness, optimism, perseverance, ability to laugh, joyfulness, patience, respectfulness, faithfulness, belief in God as the supreme Creator--loving God first and her second, moral purity, modesty, integrity, and many others.  She thinks that a true believer who is prayerful and hungry for God's word is a very important part of the high standards to be met because the vows made in marriage are meant to be kept.  The book finishes with a place to list the things to work on and look for in the "The Person I Marry".

My daughter and I really liked this book.  The verse form is engaging and thoughtful.  The paintings are beautiful!  This book gave us a lot to think about and discuss before my children marry.  I look forward to discussing this book again as my children are older.  This would be the perfect gift for anyone with a child old enough to be considering relationships and marriage.  I suspect we'll be purchasing this book for the children of several of our friends.

Would you like to see what other TOS Review Crew members thought?  Click here .

Disclaimer:  I received a free e-book copy of the above-mentioned book to read in order to prepare this review.  Opinions and comments are my own.  I did not and will not receive other compensation for this review.  I am not obligated to provide a positive review.

Gary and Jan also have a number of other books including:  There's a Party in Heaven!, Tessa's Treasures, Wyatt's Wagon, Ivy's Icicle, Cody's Castle, I'm a Michigan Kid!, Michigan Kid Passport, and The Michigan Kid Coloring and Activity Book.  They have 12 children and four grandchildren.

Gary Bower is also a storyteller, and an encouraging and entertaining speaker.  To find out how he can serve your group, call 1-888-898-3207.

First Start Reading: Phonics, Reading and Printing/Classical Phonics - Memoria Press - A TOS Review

Memoria Press

4603 Poplar Level Rd.

Louisville, KY 40213

1-877-862-1097

mailto:magister@memoriapress.com 

http://www.memoriapress.com/

Classical Phonics   $14.95

First Start Reading   $29.95

Books A, B, C, & Teacher Guide


First Start Reading Student Set   $21.00
Books A, B, & C


As a member of the TOS Review Crew I receive quite a variety of products and curriculum to check out and "test" with my children.  It's always fun to see them learning, especially when they are learning something important and useful.  Our latest adventure is trying to teach my youngest phonics and how to read.  We recently received Classical Phonics and First Start Reading from Memoria Press to use in exchange for an honest review of the books.   We're having an interesting time trying these books with a little boy who would rather run and play.  Let me tell you about these books that get your child learning phonics, reading and printing. 

Classical Phonics:  A Child's Guide to Word Mastery by Cheryl Lowe (based on Florence Akin's Word Mastery)   - 126 pages     ****See a sample

 

Classical Phonics is an uncluttered little book which teachers and families can use with their children in Kindergarten and first grade.   Phonetically-arranged word lists allow students to practice phonics skills. The theory behind this book is that in a word list there are no context clues, so the child must rely on his mastery of letter sounds. The thought is that if your child can pronounce each word in this list correctly – pot, pat, pit, put, pet – he knows his short vowel sounds, and you can move on to long vowels!  If not, according to the author, he needs more practice.  This book has a few pictures to associate with the alphabet, but the rest of the book contains word lists.  The pictures are simple drawings, and the book is black and white with some blue margins--no flashy, colorful pictures to distract children from the task at hand.  This book provides the repetition needed to learn to read--teach/reteach the sounds and phonics rules, review, practice and achieve the ability to read progressively tougher words.  Classical Phonics,which can be used as a supplement to any phonics program, covers most of the English phonograms and sounds through second grade level.  The book contains 10 Units in 2 parts.  The lessons contain sounds, phonics rules and assessments to ensure mastery before moving on.  The book also contains suggestions to teachers regarding ear training, tongue training, eye training, and word training.  By the end of the book your child learns over 2000 different words. 

Success?  Well, not yet.  We've started the process, but I think it is going to take a bit longer for my youngest to sit still more than 10-15 minutes at a time to get a bit more out of the book.  I love seeing him attempt a word list.  We're moving slow, but we're finally moving!  Hopefully my second bookworm will be reading on his own soon.  Although many books have colorful pictures and layouts, I like the simple black and white presentation in this book--hopefully less distraction equals more learning.  The book is easy to use and priced reasonably.  I look forward to continuing to use this book as a reference tool for quite a while. 

First Start Reading: Phonics, Reading, and Printing (set of 3 + teacher guide)  by Cheryl Lowe
Let me start with Wow!  First Start Reading covers consonants, short vowels, 45 common words, and manuscript printing, accompanied by artist-drawn coloring pictures and drawing pages for every letter. Children begin reading in the very first lesson.  With First Start Reading children progress through three student books and twenty-five phonetic stories.  The Teacher Manual contains an Introduction including an Alphabet Chart, a Phonics syllabi for Books A, B, and C, a Phonics overview, and Pencil Grip and Printing Lessons.  Lesson Plans for the 3 student books are provided as well as some helpful posters.  Lessons contain an introduction of letter name and sound, ear training, letter formation and printing practice.  Lessons progress to reading and writing short sentences.  Children also draw pictures based on their reading and write from dictation.  The Student books are simple and easy to follow.  Again, like Classical Phonics, there are pictures which are relatively simple--not colorful and flashy.  I like the less distraction equals more learning presentation of the student books.  Simple, but effective! 


So, how's it going?  Well, we're coming along with the sounds and reading process.  My son now realizes that not all combinations of letters are actually words.  He's quite excited to figure out how to sound out the words he sees, but he isn't so crazy about slowing down to write the words.  We're working on the writing in between, but we're not stressing about the fact that the writing and reading are not coming at the same rate.  (We're also using a reading game to work on site words.  Watch for a review of The Reading Game soon!) We're remembering that each child is different.  We're also remember that our first child didn't feel confident reading until about age 9.
This mom is liking this combination of books and thankful for the blessing we've received from Memoria Press. 

click here to view sample pages from Book A

click here to view sample pages from Book B

Memoria Press offers a full refund of the price of  their products for 60 days.  If you are not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, you can return it in resalable condition, and they will issue an exchange or refund for the full price of the products.


Reviewing for the TOS Crew is never dull - stop by here to see what other Crew members thought of these books.

Disclaimer:  As a member of the TOS Review Crew I received First Start Reading and
Classical Phonics free in order to prepare this review.  I have not and will not receive further compensation.  Comments and observations are my own.  I am not obligated to provide a positive review.

Excellence in Literature - Introduction to Literature - A TOS Review

  
Excellence in Literature - Introduction to Literature (English 1)
Janice Campbell
jceved@comcast.net
Everyday Education, LLC
P.O. Box 549
Ashland, VA 23005

Print or instant download e-book - online books in 2012.
Print Book $29(+s/h)/E-book $27- 132 pages

Purchase here
Free info sheet/5 year booklist here 


We've been using an excellent literature and composition course for about a month.  Let me tell you about it.  This college-preparatory course, for grades 8-12, uses focus works including novels, short stories, poems, and drama.  Context readings are also included to provide background information about the author, the historical period, and the literary and artistic context of the focus work.  The book contains the course outline, assignments schedules, models of the papers to be written, and evaluation information. 

While library books can be used, the author suggests purchasing your own copies so that underlining, notes in the margins, etc. may be used while reading.  (We used thrift stores and Paperback Swap.)  There are a lot of internet resources included to encourage responsible computer use--and also to save money (free).  The only required readings are the book and the focus texts. 


Introduction to Literature allows students to gain an understanding of the development of literature and practice literary analysis through essays, approach papers and other writing.  When they are finished the student should understand the process of writing through the use of resources like a writer’s handbook, dictionary, and thesaurus. The goal is to have an understanding of representative texts by major authors as well as an understanding of the historical and cultural contexts of the works.   Analysis of literary texts and presentation of ideas in writing are thought to make your student competent in essay organization, style, and mechanics.

 

Introduction to Literature readings include:

• Short Stories: A White Heron, The Purloined Letter, The Diamond Necklace, The Ransom of Red Chief, A Worn Path, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
• Other Literature:  Around the World in Eighty Days (Verne), A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court (Twain), Jane Eyre (Bronte), Pygmalion (Shaw), Treasure Island (Stevenson), Animal Farm (Orwell), The Tempest (Shakespeare) and Gulliver's Travels (Swift)

 **Books listed are focus texts only. Context readings are also assigned within each unit. In addition there is an Honors reading selection for each unit. 

Example Unit contents:

• Unit 1 includes:  Focus Texts, Context Reading, Honors Readings, Unit Focus, Introduction, Something to Think About, Be Sure to Notice, Assignment Schedule for 4 weeks. 
• Unit 2 includes: Same as first unit plus The Author's Life, Poetry, Audio, Video, Visual Arts, Music and Online Links

More information here

Free sample unit here 

 
The Excellence in Literature program is self-directed and encourages independent learning and college-style study habits.  There are 9 four week units with week-by-week lesson plans in each school year.  The material covers Medieval, Renaissance, Neo-classical, Romantic, Realist and Modernist time periods.  All volumes contain instructions, models, and a glossary.  The additional context readings provide an understanding of literature in its historic and artistic context. (Links are also included.)  Extra readings are suggested for an Honors option to allow for advanced college placement.  The planned material can be mixed and matched according to your needs/desires.  The author suggests a minimum of one hour per day of reading and writing.  She also suggests an additional 20-45 minutes of vocabulary work. 
 
Take it or Leave it--My thoughts? 
We've been reading through the short stories and beginning the first suggested books.  Here's what I'm thinking . . .
 
**The stories have been more advanced reading than our previous materials used - great for vocabulary building.  My 14 year old is definitely up to the challenge, which is interesting since she used to fight reading. 
**My student is not excited about writing, but this has been a great opportunity to work on those skills. 
**The suggested work time is appropriate. 
**I really like the focus on independent learning and study skills.  We're trying to work on tackling more topics this way too. 
**The materials have been inexpensive and easy to find. 
**We'll probably be extending the coursework a bit further time-wise, but thankfully, this program accomodates that.  Although I did take some college literature classes, a college education is definitely not required to use this well-planned course.
**The links included contain great additional information.
**The program/book list is easy to follow and contains excellent choices for reading even if you do not choose to use the EIL program. 
**The book we received contains an enormous amount of material for the price--definitely a great buy!
 
Janice's suggested websites include: • http://Everyday-Education.com • Education blog: http://Janice-Campbell.com • Entrepreneur Blog: http://DoingWhatMatters.com 
•National Association of Independent Writers and Editors http://NAIWE.com
 
How the author chose the books article here
Cathy Duffy's review here

Other TOS Review Crew thoughts here


Complete Curriculum (5 levels) in a binder $139/E-book $135 (Volumes include: Introduction to Literature, Literature and Composition, American Literature, British Literature, World Literature)




If you purchase a book from Everyday Education and it does not meet your needs/expectations, returns within 30 days for a full refund of  purchase price are available.

Disclaimer:  As a member of the TOS Review Crew I received a free copy of EIL's Introduction to Literature to use in exchange for an honest review.  I have not and will not receive further compensation.  All thoughts and comments are my own.  I am  not obligated to provide a positive review.