David Veerman

365 Trivia Twist Devotions: Fun Facts and Spiritual Truths for Every Day of the Year from B&H Publishing Group is a year-long devotional filled with simple and practical perspective on a plethora of topics. Each devotional topic is somehow related to an event that happened on a particular day. Bible verses, additional trivia tidbits, and related illustrations supplement the devotional text.

Our family has been using 365 Trivia Twist Devotions every few days over the past few weeks. My two year old is uninterested. My six year old is interested and likes hearing the devotionals read, but sometimes the content matter is above her comprehension level and she's wiggly by the end. My husband and I enjoy reading the trivia and usually have a brief discussion of the devotional's content.

Thus far, I like 365 Trivia Twist Devotions. I haven't had the opportunity to read every page, but what I have read has been interesting and various topics are presented. Who knew June 18th is International Picnic Day? Or that June is World Juggling Month? Trivia topics cover politics, historical events, inventions, sports, food, etc. The devotional entries address priorities, relationships, personal responsibility, sin, forgiveness, and more.

Occasionally, I didn't personally agree with the author's perspective on a topic. However, the devotional still provided a good start for conversation about why we do (or don't do) certain things and why we do (or don't) subscribe to a particular idea. Example: My six year old likes looking at the illustrations that accompany some of the trivia. She was quick to notice that the page for February 3rd, shows a man with a pipe. Since we have taught her the dangers of smoking, she questioned why this man was smoking. It was a good way to start off a conversation about smoking – Why do people do smoke? What effects does it have on your body? How do we treat people who engage in this activity? (Side Note: The devotional does not advocate smoking. It is only an illustration of Normal Rockewll smoking a pipe as he paints.)

In conclusion, I like 365 Trivia Twist Devotions and will continue using it. Once I finish it, I plan to keep it and reuse it when the kids are older. If you plan to use it with your kids, I'd recommend it for ages eight and older. This book can be used by a single reader. It does not have to be done in a family setting.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."… (más)

What a fun, fun idea for a devotional guide for kids! 365 Trivia Twist Devotions is divided into daily essays that touch on something special for that particular day — scientific discoveries, inventions, historic dates, fun and funky holidays, and people and places that will spark your kids’ interest to go a bit deeper. But even more, the book ties the topics to God’s word with thoughtful commentary for everyday use. A scripture verse is included (great for memorization) along with an additional fact to think about. 365 Trivia Twist Devotions is geared towards elementary aged kids, boys and girls. Boys are sometimes hard to engage, and this one is perfect for them. Here are a few topics for the month of May: John Wayne, Walt Disney, the US Penny, Pack Rat Day, Stargazing. Although this book is designed for daily use throughout the year, its use in summer activities will keep your kids learning and exploring — an added bonus for those days when you hear mom, I’m bored. I predict this book will become one this summer’s favorite activities.

Recommended.

Audience: elementary-aged children.

(Thanks to B&H Publishing for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)… (más)

Offers a nice little inspiration to prime your prayer pump so to speak. Most people have had those moments when you feel like you are not quite sure what to say in prayer. These thoughtful daily prayers offer a great little starting place to initiate your fellowship with God. It also can help fuel new life into your prayers. Sometimes one can get in the habit of praying about the same things but this can spark new ideas for things to bring to your morning meeting space with the Lord. I received a copy of the book from Tyndale.… (más)