books about living in Biblical times

As I'm preparing for a children's Bible school class, I'm realizing how important it is to have good resources about the Bible on hand. I've ordered three books through Amazon.com which I have not received yet but am anticipating that they will be good. So this week I am recommending three books which I have not seen or read! (Thankfully I have been able to reserve some Biblical reference books at my local library. Always try that first before buying.)

My class is on what it was like to live in Biblical times so we'll be discovering the food, clothing, housing, society, and family life. The first book, The New Manners and Custom of Bible Times, is rather pricey but hopefully worth it. This book will help me pick out what is important to teach and specifics on each aspect of daily life. Find a description of it here.

The Illustrated Guide to Bible Customs and Curiosities seems a bit more kid-friendly. I may have to clarify some "answers" given in this book before teaching the children "facts". I'm hoping to use this book to show the children pictures of things I am unable to physically show. Buy it here.

Since I really need more information about the New Testament customs and way of life, I went ahead and ordered The Essential Guide to the World Jesus Knew. Read the reviews here and see why I couldn't resist. The book description describes exactly why I'm teaching the class: "The more we know about the culture in which the Bible was written, the greater our appreciation of its teaching, stories, and characters will be. Because the Bible is essentially a book written from the perspective of Middle Eastern culture, it is crucial for readers to gain an awareness of its background."

Stepping Heavenward & Aunt Jane's Hero

Elizabeth Prentiss was a talented 1800s Christian writer. Stepping Heavenward: One Woman's Journey to Godliness is a journal of Katie, starting in 1831 at age sixteen. Over time she matures into a Godly woman but not without trials and tribulation. It will bring tears and perhaps a little laughter because we can identify easily with her struggles with pride, self-reliance, and lack of faith. A spiritually inspiring and uplifting book recommended to anyone ages 12 and up.

Aunt Jane's Hero: Portrait of a Christ-Centered Home is another favorite from the same author. This is a story of a young couple who are led by an elderly kind-hearted woman. Together they learn about love, following Christ's example, and how to rely on God. "I love this book! It is a marriage manual of the highest order... a must-read for every married woman and ought to be required reading for every bride-to-be." -Susan Hunt, back cover

Read S.H. online here
Read A.J.H. online here

Buy S.H. here
Buy A.J.H. here

Josh and Jenny books

Josh & Jenny go to Meeting and Josh & Jenny go to a Baptism are both great books to add to your personal children's library. Written and illustrated by Sisters, these books show children why things are the way they are at meeting and baptisms. They also demonstrate the proper way to act during these times. Written in simple language perfect for pre-schoolers and young elementary age kids.

Buy them here

Be Ye Transformed

Be Ye Transformed, Volumes I, II, & III, contain many of Brother G.V. Growcott's exhortations and articles. There are over ninety writings all together in these three books. Brother G.V. does not "beat around the bush" but firmly expresses Biblical truths. When interested in a subject, I check to see if he has written anything about it. Most likely, he has and I enjoy reading his expositions to further my understanding.

Read some online here
Buy all three here