{Giveaway} Rufus and Ryan Go To Church!

The kids were excited when this new book came in the mail. And, yes, my momma heart rejoiced that they were excited about a new book. There was a time I wasn't sure Ben would care about reading books, as he went through a phase of destroying a few and forcing us to keep any that weren't board books out of his reach. Of course, there is my first-born girl who reads to herself {out loud!} every night before bed and often throughout the day!

And, yes, I adore these moments when they sit close on the couch and read a book together. Well, Cate does the reading and Ben soaks it all in.

In "Rufus and Ryan Go to Church!," 4-year-old Ryan explains to his stuffed monkey, Rufus, what is happening as they attend church on Sunday morning. He lets Rufus know when it’s time to sing and to pray and to be quiet.

Author Kathleen Bostrom brings a delightfully light touch to the text as she provides an introduction to an experience that most children are exposed to long before they understand why. And children everywhere will relate to the idea of explaining their surroundings to their favorite companions as they go about their daily activities.

I asked the kids what they thought about the story when they got finished. Cate launched into examples of how Ryan's church is different than ours. My favorite: "The kids there don't have classes during church, but they do get a snack afterward." Right. And that's true. She also said her favorite part was when everybody was singing.

So, Ben, what was your favorite part? "The monkey." See, all boy, I tell you.

Of course, then he studied the back of the book and then asked, "Can we get this other one?" Now, that's a request that'll be hard to turn down.
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This is a new series to us. But we're always excited to try out new books. A new series of books for preschoolers, these stories feature Ryan, an energetic little boy, and his stuffed monkey Rufus. Basic Christian and church concepts serve as the foundation of the series, with an additional focus on character traits and development. The text is presented in young Ryan’s voice as he teaches Rufus about the concepts he is learning himself. Each story is about 150 words, using age-appropriate vocabulary and themes.

In addition to "Rufus and Ryan Go To Church!," the series includes "Rufus and Ryan Say Their Prayers." {Yes, Ben already knows this!} These books published by Ideal Books would make great gifts for anyone who works with kids as well as holiday gifts for children. Oh, and, well, it'll be a great gift to one of you who will win a copy next week! 

Now, a giveaway! Just leave a blog comment telling me what you and your child's favorite book is right now, and you'll be entered to win. You've got until next Friday, Oct. 4 to enter. I'll pick a winner randomly next weekend. Congratulations, Kristin! This book will be coming your way. I hope your little ones enjoy it!

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About the Author :: Kathleen Long Bostrom is a published children’s author in both the Christian and trade markets. She has a Master’s in Christian Education and a Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching, and she has worked in children’s ministry for many years. Kathy and her husband, Greg, have three grown children and live in Illinois.

About the Illustrator :: Rebecca Thornburgh began illustrating children’s books full-time in 1996 and today has almost 100 books to her name. Rebecca’s vibrant watercolors have been showcased in previous Ideals titles, including the new edition of The Story of Christmas. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and two daughters.

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I was given a copy of "Rufus and Ryan Go To Church!" by FlyBy Promotions to review, but these pictures and sentiments really belong to me and my kids. Thanks to FlyBy Promotions for the additional copy for one of you! 

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