The Christmas Horse and the Three Wise Men by Isabelle Brent from Wisdom Tales Pub. [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN 9781937786618

My thoughts: We're all familiar with the story of the three wise men bringing gifts to the Christ child as is told in the Bible. Much conjecture and speculation has cloaked their story throughout history. Were there three or more? Where were they actually from? Who were they? How did they travel? What happened as they traveled?

The Biblical text is short and brief and for some reason, perhaps that is all God felt mankind should know of these visitors. What we do know based on Scripture is that they were considered wise, they were from the east, they saw the star which went before them, they saw the young child with his mother, they fell down and worshiped him, they presented him with gifts (gold, frankincense, and myrrh), they went home by a different route.

What we don't know is what mode of transportation (well, at that time it was some form of animal) they used, what race they belonged to or country from which they came, how long it took them, or what happened along the way.

In The Christmas Horse and the Three Wise Men the author has written her own version filling in the "what we don't know" portion of the story as legends have also done throughout history. The story revolves around the horse, Safanad, though there is also an elephant also used as another means of travel for one of the wisemen. The author identifies the three wise men as from Africa, Asia, and Europe.

I think the most precious part of this story is at the end where it is affirmed that though the wise men brought precious gifts to the Christ child, they themselves received the most wonderful gift of all......

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given..." Isaiah 9:16....... 

"And thou shalt call his name JESUS for he shall save his people from their sins" Matthew 2:21

 A lovely book brimming with beautiful illustrations and embellishments a bit like the art in ancient monastic Bibles.  

About the book: The Christmas horse is on a journey to meet baby Jesus! Join him and his animal friends with the three wise men as they cross snow-capped mountains, swift rivers, and hot deserts to reach the peaceful stable in Bethlehem where baby Jesus lies in a manger. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as captured by Isabelle Brent s stunning illustrations and experience the wonder as the pure-hearted animals and the wise men finally meet their savior and king. The journey of the Three Wise Men following the star is here told from the point of view of the three courageous animals that carried them: Safanad the horse, Gamali the camel, and Simbalo the elephant. Each one comes from a different land and possesses a unique skill. Together there is no challenge they cannot overcome in their quest to find baby Jesus. Verses from the Gospel help to tell the story. Also included in the illustrations are birds connected through legend with the life and wisdom of Christ."

GIVEAWAY

Begins November 12

ENDS December 2 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Wisdom Tales Publishing to facilitate a review of my personal opinion. I was not compensated. Giveaway winner's copy will be mailed directly to them by the publisher.

SAY & PRAY DEVOTIONS First Words, Stories, and Prayers by Diane Stortz [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

My thoughts: I just love this little book. Designed with the young child and very early reader in mind, it has sturdy board book construction. The book has more pages and information than your traditional little kiddie board book.

The objective of Say & Pray Devotions is to teach and enable the young child to focus on simple objects, read aloud the word, and pray about it. The devotions are focused on specifics: God's World, God's Gifts, and God's Love. Under each specific section, the child can pray about the morning, family, rain, and activities.

Each two-page spread has a short statement, a Bible verse, and a prayer. On the page objects are labeled such as on the pet page: Fish, Hamster, Cat, Brush, Water, and Dog. So the child can learn to recognize words, learn a Bible verse, and say a short prayer.

This is a superb way for the very young reader to learn about devotional time. I highly recommend.

About the book: Perfect for beginning readers and even verse memorization!

Bestselling children’s author Diane Stortz has sold nearly 300,000 books—Bible storybooks, devotionals for  children, and more. This brand-new title, Say & Pray Devotions, is the perfect beginner devotional for little ones.

Parents who already know and love the Say & Pray Bible will love Say & Pray Devotions as it helps their youngsters continue to engage their faith in a personal way. Featuring the same fun style of artwork and the educational elements as Say & Pray Bible, this devotional for little ones will teach the basics of identification and comprehension while sharing biblical principles for life. Each devotion offers a topical message to help little ones learn and follow biblical principles.

GIVEAWAY

Begins November 1

Ends November 11 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA & CANADA addresses

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again.  Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

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“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

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