I have always been in awe of the lives of the 5 men who were killed trying to reach the jungle tribes of Ecuador. Now in this very catchy documentary you can hear about the impact that Nate Saint had on his family through the life of his grandson, Jesse.
The theme of forgiveness is impacting to anyone who watches as Jesse calls Mincaye, one of the men who murdered his biological grandfather, the dear title of “Grandfather”. As the 3rd installment in the trillogy – End of the Spear and Beyond the Gates Of Splendor being the first 2 – this DVD connects faster with the younger generations of teens to thirty-year-olds.
I highly recommend this DVD to anyone and think that it would be a great one to show to a group of teens.
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This review copy was provided The B&B Media Group but the opinion expressed is purely my own.
This is 80 minutes of entertainment and teaching based on the life of Christ. It is a good overview of the life of Christ in a format that kids – specifically ages 3 to 6 – will enjoy. The cartoon style will capture their attention and the story format of the movie – vs telling of events – will draw them in.
I like the way that the Read & Share Bible series puts things on a child’s level. However the only draw back I have is that some of the stories are added to. They take a few verses and use them to create a story board for the DVD. While I do not have a problem with thinking about what it might have been like back then, I also think it’s important that we – especially young children – don’t get fiction confused with fact. This is not necessarily a “don’t watch”, but rather a “watch with discernment”. Used in the proper context – personally I say not in a church setting – it would make for a great way to read the Biblical passage – or portion thereof – and then watch the story acted out on this sweetly animated DVD.
DVD OVERVIEW:
Based on the art style of the Read and Share®Bible, The Jesus Movie transports children to Nazareth for the story of Jesus’ birth, follows his life and miracles along the shores of Lake Galilee and ends in Jerusalem with his arrest, crucifixion and resurrection—all in one dramatic 80-minute movie. The excitement and joy of Jesus’ life, the danger and conflict with the Pharisees, the challenge and growth of the disciples—it’s all here in a simple, straightforward narrative.
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This review DVD was provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson but the opinions expressed are my own.
Max Lucado’s Hermie & Friends series is a fun, upbeat, wholesome, and creative show for kids to watch. The kids and I enjoy the bright characters who entertain and teach Biblical truth in an easy-to-understand way. The catchy tunes stick with the kids and I often hear my kids whistling or humming them around the house. The characters stretch kids imagination (talking bugs!) while pushing them to think through their little lives and how they can love, obey, be kind, etc… In this episode, the theme of forgiveness and apologizing is well portrayed. And just for silly fun, don’t forget to watch the cartoon short “Little Red Hermie in the Hood”! Adults will enjoy these family friendly DVDs just as much as the kids!
DVD OVERVIEW:
When Flo gets her own TV talk show, she is positively thrilled! She has to think about what to say, what to wear, and who to invite as guests. What she isn't thinking about are other people's feelings. After insulting every guest on her show, she finally realizes that she needs to apologize for the means things she said. Flo learns that words are very powerful. In fact, the words "I'm sorry" can make all the difference. Children will learn that by saying you're sorry, you are asking foregiveness and fixing your friends with another person.
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Thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing the review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Gigi has become a well-loved character for both my 7-year-old and 5-year-old daughters. And I have to admit that my 3-year-old son gets a kick out of the boys in the series, too!
Gigi and her “all-things-princess” attitude connects with my girls who love make-believe and princess. However, this series is more than just about pink,, purple, frills, lace, and fancy stuff – it’s about being God’s little princess. As a Mom I appreciate the message that little girls are not just some fashionable title of “Princess” as we see slapped on clothing for girls of all ages, but a treasured gem of God.
This DVD sends that message big time as the first episode is about showing love towards others and then the second episode features the truth that our true beauty is found only in God. I highly recommend this DVD and any of the 5 prior to it. You and your daughters will not be disappointed. And it would be something fun to show at a princess tea party or themed birthday party!
The running time on this is a little over 60 minutes total and is best for 8-year-olds and younger.
DVD OVERVIEW:
Two episodes in one DVD!
The Royal Pink Circus: Gigi and Frances are both excited to go see the traveling circus. They’ve heard that it is the only circus in the world with princess tightrope walkers and pink tigers. Well, that last part may or may not have been accurate. The girls learn that getting everything 'right' is not as important as showing love and caring for our friends.
The Princess Hair ‘Do: Gigi sees a TV special about a princess from another country who has short hair and decides that getting her hair cut short will make her both gorgeous and more princess-y. Ever get a haircut you weren’t happy with? In the end, Gigi learns that beauty is only skin-deep and that, no matter what, she is still a princess in God's eyes.
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This review copy was provided by Tommy Nelson, but the opinions expressed are strictly that of my own.
This movie – based on a true story – will have you taking a second look at your life as did the real-life character, Randy, when his own son disappeared.
The Way Home is a great – yet gripping - drama that made me stop and think about life and priorities. I had tears in my eyes many times through out the 90 minutes because as a parent I could put myself into the plot and sympathize with something I hope I never know in real-life.
I enjoyed the well done production and presentation of the storyline. Dean Cain is a great actor and brings to life his character so well as do the many other actors. While the story line is not complicated, and in fact may seem slightly boring or easily predictable at points, it is very thought-provoking, and uplifting on several levels. The encouragement and outpouring of help from the community in this story is amazing and remembering that this really happened will make it hit home even more so.
I highly recommend The Way Home for families to watch together but with a word of caution about younger children. It may be best to preview this before allowing you kids to watch it as it may be a bit too much for them to handle emotionally.
DVD OVERVIEW:
A missing child. A family in crisis. A faith tested. In their darkest hour, God gives hope.
Dean Cain stars as Randy Simpkins, a husband and father torn between the demands of his job and family. Asked by his wife to watch their two-year-old son, Joe, for a few minutes, he becomes distracted by work. When he returns, Joe is gone. He and his wife search desperately for their missing son through the vast countryside. But as their fear grows, the community responds – hundreds of supporters uniting behind the family in a powerful spiritual journey that will test the couple’s love and faith, and forever change a community.
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This review copy was provided by Thomas Nelson but the opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The Read and Share Bible is a great children’s Bible to read to your young family. Now you can add some great DVD’s to their viewing repertoire as well.
Based off of the Read and Share Bible, this videos bring the stories to life in animation. They are simple and yet teach the basic concepts and accounts to young minds. My children (7, 5, & 3) enjoyed watching it, but I do have to say that it is more appealing to younger children around the ages of 2 to 4. It is 30 minutes in length and a great DVD to use before nap time or when you want them to settle down rather than stir them up!
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Thanks to TommyNelson for providing today’s DVD for review! The opinions expressed are my own.
Two new, fully-animated heart-warming stories and a fun sing-along song.
The White Lie: Sheila Walsh reminds little girls that it’s no fun getting in trouble. But when we do wrong and try to cover our sin, things only get worse and our hearts get heavy with guilt. But we have a God who knows our weaknesses and loves us anyway. Teaches the lesson of 1 John 1:8-9 “If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins, he will forgive...and cleanse us from all the wrongs we have done.” (ICB)
The Pink Surprise: Sheila Walsh says: “Isn’t it fun to be the first in line? When I was young, all the kids would run to get as close as possible to the front. It’s a little like being the only child in a family—you get one hundred percent of your parents’ attention, and can sometimes even feel like the world revolves around you. But it turns out that there are other blessings in life besides being first, and Gigi has been blessed with an adventure that will last a lifetime.” Teaches the lesson from Jesus’ prayer in Luke 10:21 “Father, you have hidden things from the people who are wise and smart... but shown them to those who are like little children.” (ICB)
MY THOUGHTS:
I like the fun, yet Biblical, approach in both episodes of this newest Gigi DVD. My girls really enjoy the fun antics of this “all things princess” girl and they learn from her, too. This DVD not only entertained my children, but taught them and opened up an opportunity to talk about lying when my 4-year-old daughter asked about Gigi’s lying. I felt that for an entertaining kid’s DVD it did a good job of presenting Biblical truth and principles in an understandable manner for kids. I would recommend this DVD to kids 3 to 7 and specifically for girls. However, boys who have sisters may enjoy watching it as well. There is a boy character in it to make it a little more appropriate for boys who do happen to be watching this one.
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This review copy was provided by Tommy Nelson. The views expressed our my own.
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GIVEAWAY!!!
I have 1 copy to giveaway! Comment on this post - and don’t forget to leave a way for me to contact you incase you win – and I will draw a winner tonight.
Wanderin’ In The Dessert is the third DVD in a series created by Phil Vischer that walks kids (and parents!) through an overview of the Bible. This episode covers the books of Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
While I can’t say I agree with every last detail, I still appreciate this video for the great teaching it does offer. It has a variety show feel with fun and likeable characters that attract both kids and adults. In my opinion it is a great way to study Bible Overview with kids. It presents facts in a fun way that will not only hold their attention but have them remembering them for years to come.
As a Mom of 3 children – 7, 5, & 3 – I am always looking for creative ways to teach my children here at home. Our kids attend a Christian school but we feel very strongly about our responsibility to teach our children in the home as well. I have, and plan to continue to use this series as a fun way of spending time with my kids while they learn. It will give us a great starting point for some excellent conversations about topics and information that many people don’t know until their later adult years.
I enjoy What’s In The Bible and would recommend this to any family. However, I do think it’s best used in a family setting rather than a Sunday School or church setting. For more information be sure to check out the website: www.whatsinthebible.com.
DVD OVERVIEW:
In What’s In the Bible #3, Wanderin’ in the Desert, Buck Denver and his cast of friends take us through the next three books of the Bible—Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—helping kids understand how these books fit in with Genesis and Exodus to make up the Pentateuch and to set the stage for the trials and victories of God’s people. The question “Did this stuff really happen?” is also answered. From the man who made vegetables talk (and sing and dance and tell Bible stories) comes this third release in the engaging new series that walks kids through the entire Bible! Each DVD is filled with an entertaining cast of characters who bring the most powerful Bible stories to life using humor, creative storytelling, and fun songs. Join VeggieTales creator Phil Vischer on a wild and zany journey and see the world’s most amazing book come to life.
While books are my favorite form of media and entertainment for both myself and my children, I also find that Biblically based movies can have a place in teaching, too. This newest release from Thomas Nelson does a fine job of teaching children – and even some adults – about loving others.
When some new Ants move into town it looks like Antonio may be loosing his spot as top ant. However, through love – even when he doesn’t feel like it – he wins some friends instead of enemies. Just as in real life, some of his friends don’t understand why he is choosing love.
While this movie ends good, unlike some of real life’s experiences, it proves to be a great source of encouragement, Biblically based teaching, and wholesome entertainment for the whole family. It teaches lessons on a topic that all kids will face at one point in time and gives parents a great way to begin some discussion or refer to as an example in conversations with their children.
Don’t turn off the T.V. when the credits roll or you will miss the short film of “Caterpilla” which my daughters thought was so much fun!
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Thanks to Tommy Nelson for the review copy. All opinions expressed our purely my own.
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GIVEAWAY!!!
I have 1 copy of this great kids DVD to giveaway!
To have your name entered to win, please leave a comment. Please leave a means of contacting you when you leave your comment.
The winner will be drawn late tonight/early tomorrow.
Who Is In Charge Anyway? is another DVD in the Max Lucado’s Hermie & Friends series. This hour long DVD about growing up with God will entertain and teach 3 year olds to 8 year olds and even beyond. Even adults will enjoy the cute antics of a garden variety of bugs who bumble their way through life while learning about their Creator.
In this episode of Hermie, Freddie the flea learns about how God created each creature with a special purpose. Through flashbacks of scenes from classic episodes to new scenes shown of the characters “childhood years” you learn about how God taught each of them lessons that made them who they are today.
My children think the world of Hermie and all his friends and they truly learn an important lesson each time they watch. This is something I’m glad they watch.
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Thanks to TommyNelson for the review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
The TrueU series is a great tool for older teens and college age students. Rather than have the feel of a "force fed meal" in a lesson format, it's a presentation of various thoughts allowing the student to decide for himself what is really the truth.
The downside is that in some churches, this more relaxed and laid back approach of presenting the truth is not as well received as it may be in others. At times Dr. Meyers can be too vague.
Overall, it is a helpful resource, but I highly recommend that you preview it or do your research before actually purchasing it. It may, or may not be, for your church.
PRODUCT OVERVIEW:
In this first DVD set of the TrueU series, Dr. Stephen Meyer plays a “philosophical survival game,” pitting four worldviews against one another in the quest to decide which one gives the best answers. Dr. Meyer examines the evidence and provides the tools needed for students to defend their faith and make it their own. This is the perfect resource for students preparing to enter college and a culture that may be hostile to their faith. Additional discussion guides can be purchased separately, either in singles
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This review copy was provided courtesy of Tyndale House Publishers and did not have any impact on my review which is purely my own opinion.
The time when we run around attending parties and stuffing ourselves with great food while giving away gifts to our graduates.
Today I am featuring another great gift idea for any high school or college graduate - Faith, Hope, & Luck by Andy Stanley. This 100 minute DVD is broken into 5 segments for study as an individual or as a group. It's accompanying participants' guide is also easy to use in either setting.
The message of this study series is about how often we base our faith on what God is or is not "doing" in our life and in the lives of those around us. Stanley opens the Word of God to explain that our faith does not have to sway with the day but can be steadfast.
Overall, this DVD and participants guide is well put together and of great quality. It's enjoyable to watch and Andy Stanley is easy to listen to and learn from. There are few things that Andy says that I do not completely agree with (hence the 3 star rating) but not to the point that I would say not to use this. This cutting edge and extremely relevant study and presentation is a great investment into the spiritual life of any graduate.
Leave a comment on any of the Great Graduate Gifts posts this week to be entered into the drawing to win this DVD series and the one that was featured yesterday!
You may follow this blog (& then leave another comment saying you did so) for an extra entry if you would like!
While cash and gift cards are important to the Graduate gearing up for college, investing in their spiritual health is also an important gift and here is something that will do just that.
In Andy Stanley's clear and concise way he opens up the Bible to talk about five things God uses to grow your faith. This 6 session DVD includes these lessons:
Big Faith
Practical Teaching
Providential Relationships
Private Disciplines
Personal Ministry
Pivotal Circumstances
The DVD is high quality and enjoyable to watch along with being a spiritual challenge and encouragement. The participant's guide is also easy to use and fun for both groups or individuals. The flexibility of this set is part of what makes it so appealing along with it's great message.
I have rated this DVD & study guide with a 3 only because I am a Pastor's wife and due to some comments Stanley makes about denominations I would not be comfortable to show it in our church setting. However, on an individual basis I thought it was overall an encouraging study.
Leave a comment on any of the Great Graduate Gifts posts this week to be entered into the drawing to win this DVD series and the one that will be featured tomorrow!
You may follow this blog (& then leave another comment saying you did so) for an extra entry if you would like!
Two new, fully-animated heart-warming stories and a fun sing-along song.
The White Lie: Sheila Walsh reminds little girls that it’s no fun getting in trouble. But when we do wrong and try to cover our sin, things only get worse and our hearts get heavy with guilt. But we have a God who knows our weaknesses and loves us anyway. Teaches the lesson of 1 John 1:8-9 “If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins, he will forgive...and cleanse us from all the wrongs we have done.” (ICB)
The Pink Surprise: Sheila Walsh says: “Isn’t it fun to be the first in line? When I was young, all the kids would run to get as close as possible to the front. It’s a little like being the only child in a family—you get one hundred percent of your parents’ attention, and can sometimes even feel like the world revolves around you. But it turns out that there are other blessings in life besides being first, and Gigi has been blessed with an adventure that will last a lifetime.” Teaches the lesson from Jesus’ prayer in Luke 10:21 “Father, you have hidden things from the people who are wise and smart... but shown them to those who are like little children.” (ICB)
MY THOUGHTS:
I like the fun, yet Biblical, approach in both episodes of this newest Gigi DVD. My girls really enjoy the fun antics of this “all things princess” girl and they learn from her, too. This DVD not only entertained my children, but taught them and opened up an opportunity to talk about lying when my 4-year-old daughter asked about Gigi’s lying. I felt that for an entertaining kid’s DVD it did a good job of presenting Biblical truth and principles in an understandable manner for kids. I would recommend this DVD to kids 3 to 7 and specifically for girls. However, boys who have sisters may enjoy watching it as well. There is a boy character in it to make it a little more appropriate for boys who do happen to be watching this one.
Do you have kids who you want to teach about the Bible? Or do you just enjoy watching kids DVDs?
Is so, watch this short clip and then keep reading to find out how YOU could win a free copy of one of the two new releases!!!
I am really excited about these 2 new DVDs for kids by Phil Vischer. His creativity and passion has produced a quality program for kids that is not only entertaining, but incredibly educational. AND…beyond that, it’s not just academically educational, but Biblically educational. In short, this video series is like a Bible survey class for kids. Except that this is a “class” your kids will want to be in on!
My personal take on this series is that over all I really liked it. In fact, I would award it 4 stars out of 5. I’ll be honest and tell you that the only reason I don’t give it all 5 stars is because of a few details that to me are personal preferences, namely it’s presentation of creation. (It explains that some people think that when God created the world a day meant a literal day and that others believe a “day” could have been longer.) There are many people out there with a strong opinion on this issue in both directions. While I am in the group that believes a “day” meant a 24 hour day as we know it now, I do not believe that the presentation in this DVD is one to be thrown out completely. I will let my kids watch it and then talk to them about it both now and as they continue to grow up. In all fairness to the people who are reading this review and who know me in real life, let me say that this is not a DVD that I would show in church. However, all that being said…I still have to walk away from this DVD saying that I am impressed.
There was a lot in these two episodes that most adults might not even know! And the great thing about What’s In The Bible is that it teaches Bible survey in a fun way and with a very understandable presentation to young kids. These programs are a great blend of a real human person talking (Phil Vischer himself), animation, and puppets. The characters are both funny and lovable and will appeal not only to kids, but to adults as well. And, the adults might just learn a whole lot, too, while watching with their kids!
In The Beginning and Let My People Go will be a great educational and entertainment addition to your DVD collection and would be great movies to use for a family movie night for younger families with children 9 years old and younger. Although, I would not be surprised to find older kids enjoying them, too!
…I have 1 copy of both of these DVDs to giveaway to 2 lucky winners!
Here is how you can enter to win:
1) Please follow this blog through either the Google Friends & Fan box or the Facebook Fan Page. Then leave a comment a comment on this post and be sure to give me a way to contact you either with a link to your blog, twitter, or e-mail address.
2) For an extra entry you can link this blog – To Read, Or Not To Read – to your own blog list on your own sidebar and then leave another comment telling me you did so with the link to your blog.
Remember, that even if you “do” option 1and/or 2, your entry is not valid unless you LEAVE A COMMENT with a way for me to contact you.
Now…let the fun begin! Two winners will be drawn on Saturday, March 13th using Random.org to receive the a certificate to redeem for 1 DVD at your local bookstore.
(This drawing is only open to those within the United States.)
While books are my favorite form of media and entertainment for both myself and my children, I also find that Biblically based movies can have a place in teaching, too. This newest release from Thomas Nelson does a fine job of teaching children – and even some adults – about loving others.
When some new Ants move into town it looks like Antonio may be loosing his spot as top ant. However, through love – even when he doesn’t feel like it – he wins some friends instead of enemies. Just as in real life, some of his friends don’t understand why he is choosing love.
While this movie ends good, unlike some of real life’s experiences, it proves to be a great source of encouragement, Biblically based teaching, and wholesome entertainment for the whole family. It teaches lessons on a topic that all kids will face at one point in time and gives parents a great way to begin some discussion or refer to as an example in conversations with their children.
Don’t turn off the T.V. when the credits roll or you will miss the short film of “Caterpilla” which my daughters thought was so much fun!
* * * * *
This review copy was courtesy of BookSneeze.com and this opinion is my own.
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