Lee Ann Mancini

As parents we struggle daily with raising children in a world where evil is present. Children can be influenced by many things but this book will help to guide you with Biblical truth and insights of how to raise children to draw near to God. There are examples in the book that are helpful and a useful tool for new parents as well as seasoned ones.

I like how the authors give personal stories as well as stories from the Bible and other people they know to show parents how to guide children to seek God. It is important to pray for them everyday. As we nurture our children we should include them in prayer time with the family. I love how my middle son and his wife pray with their children every night before bed.

Another way to help parents is to bring children to church with them. As they go off to their classes you can feel comfort knowing they are learning about Jesus. I know how important it is to have children attend church as they experience stories from the Bible and learn scriptures.

This book would be a special gift to new parents as they begin their journey of raising their children to know Jesus. There are many useful tools in the book and I would recommend parents to grab a copy for themselves.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (more)

“Raising Kids to Follow Christ: Instilling a Lifelong Trust in God” by Lee Ann Mancini is an excellent book that combines Nonfiction, Family and Relationships, and Parenting. It provides strategies and techniques for raising children centered around God’s word. The author includes real-life examples, personal stories, and more.

It focuses on preserving Christianity through our children. As the mom of four adult children, I would have appreciated reading this book when they were younger. I love how the author includes fun ways to connect your child’s heart to Christ and build a meaningful and lasting relationship. It helps children move from discipline to discipleship, allowing them to grow.

So, check out this book for yourself. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own… (more)

This is a dynamic children’s book for Easter and encompasses so many important subjects and makes them a part of the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. No Easter Bunny or association with him is mentioned; Christ as first place as He should be!
It is Easter and after attending church the Sea Kids gather for an egg hunt. Their Sunday school teacher tells them there are 3 special eggs that will win them a key to the prize box to pick a gift of their choice. Paul is autistic and when he doesn’t find a prize egg he becomes very upset. Jimmy finds 2 prize eggs and refuses to give on to Paul even when the teacher suggests it. He just doesn’t understand why he should. In the midst of all this excitement the pastor comes in with Brian manatee, announcing that his little brother Lenny was seriously injured. The next week the sea creatures gather to have a special prayer for Lenny who needs a miracle. Jimmy struggles with wanting to keep both prize eggs and giving one to Paul. He goes to his father for advice.
Prayer is such a strong theme in all of the Sea Kids Adventures books but very much so in this one. Children see how important it is to pray for those who are sick or hurt. All the sea adults coming together for prayer further establishes its importance. With autism becoming very prevalent among children today I thought it was wonderful the author introduced Paul to the story. These children and their behavior are often misunderstood by their peers and adults. I was happy to see all the students accepted, included and even helped Paul. Jimmy asks his Dad if he should give Paul one of his eggs because he was autistic. His Father told him that he was just as special to God as his friend was. If he gave Paul one of his eggs it should only because he wanted to be kind to his friend! Wow! Jimmy prays that night and asks Jesus into his heart. The purpose of Christ’s death, sacrifice and resurrection for our sins is beautifully expressed throughout the book. I appreciate there was no Easter Bunny mentioned. I believe it take from Christ and replace Him in the eyes of little ones.
I will be using all of this series of books in my Sunday school class. Without a doubt I will be reading them many times with my youngest grandson throughout the years. After his parents trying 13 years to have him, and with no medical intervention he was born 4 days before Easter! He is a miracle to our family!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions stated are my own.… (more)

Charlie the crab is another one of Ms. Mancini’s charming characters. He is very shy so the first day of school is somewhat daunting to the little fellow. While other kids embrace the special day or are crying for their parents, he decides hiding behind the sink and watching is the best choice. When he witnesses students having trouble getting along he is able to tell the teacher what really happened. The teacher is then prompted to ask him to be her special helper. This was just the ticket to bring Charlie out of hiding. Immediately he quotes his resume of special crab skills that he knows will come in useful. Later that day on a field trip a fellow student accidentally falls into a fire coral and is stung. Without hesitating, Charlie alerts the teacher, and rushes to his classmate’s side, to comfort and pray with him. Thanks to his quick actions the student receives first aid. As the day goes on Charlie realizes not only has he had fun, but that he is brave and able to be a servant like Jesus.
New experiences and places can be overwhelming to youngsters. It might be the first day of school, first time to be left at day care, Sunday school or junior church. Some are so incredibly shy like Charlie that it is painful. Children can relate to the cute, colorful Sea Kids facing the same situation. The little crab’s special abilities were needed and helpful to others. I was amused at all the values Charlies sees in his little “crabby” skills, especially walking sideways! I find this a wonderful illustration to point out each child’s unique God given abilities can be a blessing to those around them and can be used to serve the Lord. Prayer is a powerful message in the story, showing kids they can ask God for help, not only for themselves but others anytime and anywhere. Furthermore young readers can see it is okay to pray out loud in front of others. I also noticed another important encouragement for children to do right. When Charlie told his teacher about the students fighting he demonstrated there is a right time to go to those in authority with a problem. Too many youngsters fear being a “tattle-tale”. This is a wonderful point to discuss with your child the difference between tattling and the responsibility to share important information. This little red crab will help kids realize it if fun to serve others!
This book is another blessing in the series! I love how the author doesn’t just focus on just moral character but Christian values based on God’s word! My youngest Grandson is almost 1 year old and loves books. Red is his favorite color right now so I feel quite sure Charlie the crab, will be his favored Sea kid!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions stated are my own.… (more)