Customer Reviews

Choose!: The Story of Ruth (Phonetic Bible Stories)

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Choose! The Story of Ruth, written by Claudia Courtney, is another story about Ruth, but this one is quite different from any others I've ever read. This one utilizes phonics to not only tell the story but to also help children learn to read. As the author writes in her Note to Grownups: "This beginning reader series blends the best of two worlds - phonics to help your child learn to read and popular Bible stories to help your child learn to read God's word." The author cites Ruth 1:1-4:12 as the scripture for this story.

A spelling list of words used in the book is given on page 16. The words emphasize the long "u" sound as in the name Ruth, or the words food and Hebrew.

The illustrations by Larry Nolte are bright, colorful and cartoon-like, making this a very kid-friendly book.

What I Like: This is a unique approach to telling Bible stories. It's also a great idea for teaching children how to read. What a great way to combine the two.

What I Dislike: My only complaint is the short sentences and repeated sound phrases used throughout the book (which are necessary in this type of book) sometimes make it difficult to follow the story's narrative. For example, on page 9 Naomi and Ruth have arrived in Judah, and on page 10 Ruth is working in Boaz's field, but there is no transition or explanation as to how or why she is there. It's not a big deal, but I thought I would point that out.

Overall Rating: Very good.

Age Appeal: 2-6.

Christine M. Irvin - Christian Children's Book Review