Did you know that Barbour Publishing has two new titles Who Was Jonah? and Who Was Mary, Mother of Jesus? The kids and I were privileged to review both titles and would love to share our Kingdom Files Series Review!
WHO IS BARBOUR PUBLISHING
I had heard of the name Barbour Publishing, but didn’t know much of their history until recently and wanted to share with you my findings. The company began as “Book Bargains” in 1981 as a small remainder seller and now is considered a prominent Christian publisher. In 1984, the name was changed to Barbour Publishing, publishing its own titles including the well-loved The Pilgrim’s Progress.
Barbour Publishing has built its reputation as a Christian publisher over the years and has released more than 120 titles per year. Their mission statement says it all...“To inspire the world with the life-changing message of the Bible.”
WHO IS THE AUTHOR
These books are both from Kingdom Files series by Matt Koceich. As a teacher, his ultimate goal in writing these books was to teach children more about the bible!
The paperback books Who Was Jonah and Who Was Mary, Mother of Jesus? are part of a biography collection geared towards ages 8-12 and a perfect length of under 100 pages.
OUR REVIEW
Who Was Jonah was read by my 12-year son who is an avid reader and was able to read this book within 20 minutes. As he narrated the book to me, I was thankful he was able to glean new facts, despite reading this story from books and directly from the bible many times!
The books were written at an elementary age level but my daughter in middle school also enjoyed reading one as well. She was able to learn new facts about Mary Who Was Mary, Mother of Jesus?
Both books include a Fact File with key facts about the Bible character, along with an informative mini-timeline and map. Throughout the chapters are simple, yet detailed black and white drawings, capturing many poignant and triumphant moments.
You’ll also find several Power-Up notes towards the end of the book entailing important information to ponder and answer. These Power Up messages include “powerful” bible verses to memorize as well.
As mentioned, these books were tailored at an elementary age level, but my daughter in middle school also enjoyed reading it. She was able to learn new facts about Mary, the mother of Jesus. This si always my goal with any book, to learn at least one new fact to gather in their personal memory vault!
As you come to the end, your child can write down notes on what he/she learned and in addition, get a sneak peek of another Kingdom File book!
FINAL THOUGHTS
I would highly recommend these books to younger children closer to ages 8-10 and older for struggling readers. They are easy to read, contain a lot of valuable information, and keep the reader’s interest piqued. Find out more about the publisher and author by connecting socially using the links below!
SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarbourPublishing/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/barbourbuzz
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BarbourPublishing1

