Monday, March 08, 2010

The Flowering Cross by Beth Ryan

The Flowering Cross is the story of a six-year old Katie and her neighbor "Mean Old Jack" who after discovering the true meaning of the Cross is transformed by God's love into Papa Jack. Jack was known by all the neighborhood for his ill temper rather than his beautiful flowers. Katie and her family show him God's love by treating him with love and kindness in all situations. They take him soup when he is sick, help him in his yard, and Katie continually shares her bright smile with him. Eventually Katie and her family are welcome visitors. Katie invites Papa Jack to church on several occasions, but he always declines, until this Easter. While at church, Papa Jack finally realizes how much Jesus loves him, and that realization transforms his life.

I really liked this book, as did my six-year old daughter. The illustrations were well done. My favorite part was the Faith Imprints sprinkled through out the book. These Faith Imprints are cues for parents to share Scripture with their children giving parents a good teaching opportunity with this entertaining book. I would definitely recommend this book to others and will be sharing it with my friends and family.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255