So, these first few are not books, but they are incredible resources I have grown up with and love. On long car trips instead of asking "Are we there yet?" it was "How many more Odyssey episodes?" :)
- Focus on the Family (http://www.focusonthefamily.com/) They have a ton of resources for every age. We also appreciate a branch of this ministry called CitizenLink for a Christian perspective on current news.
- Adventures in Odyssey (whitsend.org) An incredibly well-done audio drama series, based in a small town's ice cream parlor with kids learning practical lessons from God's Word in a fun, memorable format.
- Down Gilead Lane: another audio drama (http://www.keysforkids.org/ForKids/DownGileadLane/ReadListen.aspx) focused more on family issues. Absolutely love these series; so many times when talking with mom or dad about choosing to the right thing in a difficult situation, one of us kids will say "There is an Odyssey/Down Gilead Lane episode about that...!"
- Jungle Jam the Radio Show: the last audio drama series :) The animals in the jungle share fun-filled adventures teaching principles of the Bible through songs and stories. And there are plenty of jokes for the adults listening; I am finally understanding why my parents and grandparents liked listening with us so much... We still sing the songs, and quote lines from the show!
- Clubhouse Magazine (http://www.clubhousemagazine.com/) Also a ministry branch of Focus on the Family, this is a magazine for kids geared for ages 8-12. My siblings and I always enjoyed reading the stories, advice, jokes, recipes, and much more!
- YWAM books: These are great biographies (my favorite, because it is real life) of heroes of the faith and history. They have been really instrumental in challenging me to serve the Lord. Ever since I picked up Gladys Alward's book at a homeschool conference give-away, I have loved her story!
- Lamplighter books: (http://lamplighter.net/c/) These books are classics that have stood the test of time and are now being reprinted for our generation to benefit. With the purpose to build character, challenge deeper faith and a desire to know the Lord better, these books will always leave you refreshed, convicted, and strengthen your view of God and His character. I have loved each book; with a variety or topics, ages, and genres (from autobiography, to mystery, to novels...) there is something for everyone. I will stop now, but I could not say enough good things about this ministry or the books! Not to mention, many of the books have been turned into Audio Dramas which are excellent for car trips...
- Now for the books :) All of which I highly recommend!
- Gifted Hands by Ben Carson (ps... he is running for President!) and the movie based on his book is accurate and definitely worth watching.
- The Scarlet Pimpernel
- The Open Door by Mrs. J. L. Ragsdale (true story of a children's home)
- Through Gates of Splendor
- Let Us Pray by Watchman Nee
- The Hiding Place
- Dispatches from the Front by Tim Kessee
- Daughter of China
- Radical
- Growing up Super Average by Bob Smiley
- The Treasure Tree & The Treasure Trail (its sequel)
- Anne of Green Gables
- Cul-De-Sac Kids Series
- The Little House on the Prairie Series
- Cam Jensen Mysteries
- The Princess and the Kiss
- The Garden Wall