Thursday, March 2, 2017

Homeschool Review Crew Review: By the Way Book Series

Recently, my son and I have had the privilege of reviewing Pennsylvania ~ Here We Come from By the Way Book Series: Children's nature books with a Biblical worldview and values. We've enjoyed getting to "visit" more of our cherished home state of Pennsylvania and learn more about our beloved Father God through the pages of this beautifully illustrated hardcover book written by Joy Budensiek.

Penny, the Great Dane, Lexi and Alex

About the Book:

Our guides for Pennsylvania ~ Here We Come are Alex and Lexi, a brother and sister, who have won a contest called Celebrate Pennsylvania. As the siblings represent the state of Pennsylvania on a whirlwind tour through various cities and towns within our beloved state they are also responsible for Penny, the Great Dane mascot. Did you know that the Great Dane is Pennsylvania's state dog? We did. My son and I really liked a picture the author included because it shows a Great Dane and a Chihuahua together. We have a Chihuahua-Yorkshire Terrier mix dog named Yoda. His best friend was a Great Dane, who lived down the street, named Elliott. This picture reminds us of their visits together and sweet memories.



More About This Book:

Each page is packed with useful and interesting facts about Pennsylvania. Even though I have lived in PA for the majority of my lifetime, I even learned a few new things about my home state. The book was certainly well researched. Furthermore, the book takes you through popular cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburg and discusses well known history such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the French and Indian War at Fort Necessity. In addition, it steers you through some small towns that even I'm unfamiliar with as a native but found interesting to read about its history. The book gives you a beautiful picture of our home state from the mountains, to the lakes, to the fields, and the valleys. Pennsylvania ~ Here we come not only showcases all that the state has to offer but it also highlights the rich history that marks our nation's framework and its continued significance throughout the years.


What We Liked About This Book:

Pennsylvania ~ Here We Come has beautiful photographs and colorful illustrations throughout its pages. Not only does it have an interesting story line, but it also contains a myriad of facts about the state of Pennsylvania. These facts make the book a perfect supplement for any homeschooler working on Pennsylvania History lessons. Scripture verses and references to our beloved Father God are generously sprinkled throughout the book as well. My son, and I, like curriculum that focus upon our faith. For homeschoolers, this book would make an excellent addition to reading, geography, and/or Bible curriculums. For parents and anyone who loves a child, this book makes a great gift for reading together. It offers you special moments together learning more about God, the world around us, and about one another. My son also enjoyed looking for the objects hidden throughout the pages. I enjoyed all of the fun facts as I always enjoy learning something new.



In addition to the hardcover book, which we received a free copy of for this review, each book also has a poster set, an activity book, and a trading card packet. I purchased the activity book and trading cards to utilize with the book. The Activity book contains numerous puzzles that reinforce the concepts taught within the hardcover book. We found it useful and fun.



By the Way Book Series also offers: Florida's Treasure Coast ~ Here We ComeWashington (State) ~ Here We Come, Smoky Mountains ~ Here We Come, Ohio ~ Here We Come, Colorado ~ By the Way.  Coming 2017: Ireland, New York City, Indiana, and Idaho.



Who is the author, Joy Budensiek?



Joy is a delightful, godly woman. I had the pleasure of conversing with her via email during this review and was blessed to get to know her. Joy felt led to write the By the Way series of books to help parents talk to their children about God after learning that "19 out of 20 Christian parents and grandparents do not talk to their children about God and spiritual truths in their daily lives." (Dr. Jeff Myers, Summit Ministries) Joy has a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master's degree in Ministry. She has been married for over 40 years to her beloved husband, John. They have one daughter and two sons and eight grandchildren. Joy is preparing to retire from teaching and will soon focus upon her writing ministry full-time.




To read more reviews about Pennsylvania ~ Here We Come and other books in the By the Way Book Series, visit the Homeschool Review Crew Blog.


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