CBH Ministries, formerly known as Children's Bible Hour, began in 1942 when a pastor's niece asked him why there were no radio shows for children that told stories about Jesus. Their historical timeline is rather sweet, showing the growth of a radio program and how it blessed people during times of war and difficulty.
Their new Seasons of Faith Illustrated Book Series draws from old radio show scripts and turns them into picture books, complete with audio CD. And the audio CD's make the set.
I don't think I would enjoy these without the CD. The glossy softcover books, full of what one fellow reviewer cleverly described as "Sunday School illustrations", are a nice addition to the radio program but would not stand alone as well. These stories have the feel of radio program and are most enjoyable when hearing them read aloud by "Uncle Charlie".
Here's where I must admit to being a hypocrite. When reviewing Tales From Terrestria, I stated my dislike of stories that spoon feed you and shove their message down your throat. The Seasons of Faith stories seem to be created solely to make their point. They are shoveling it down your throat and yet they do it in such a charming way that I still find myself enjoying them. They are old fashioned, heavy handed, and moral heavy. And yet, this is exactly what they are meant to be. Call me crazy, but they make me forget my normal disdain for such things.
It may be the sweet memories they recall. Back in my college days, my toddlers and I would listen to Uncle Charlie's radio program, Keys For Kids. These were similar in style and yet we loved hearing his voice share the silly little stories with great big meaning. My little ones would clamor for radio time and we would enjoy precious moments together. Now these two are seventeen and nineteen and I long for those moments of togetherness. For me, this set brought that feeling back with my younger ones.
The Seasons of Faith books consist of four books, each covering a "season" of faith. They cover topics such as God's creation, salvation, forgiveness and relying on God during difficult times. Each book is available separately for $10. If you'd like the complete set, it is $40 but you may use the code FREESHIPAPR15 to receive free shipping, through April 15, 2010.
*Disclosure: The set of four books were provided to me at no cost, for review purposes. To read more reviews of this product, click HERE.*
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