1. Story Dice Adventure Roll a set of dice with different pictures or words on them, then take turns creating a story based on what you roll. 2. DIY Time Machine Use a cardboard box to build a "time machine" and have your kids imagine traveling to different eras. Ask them what they see, hear, and do in each place. 3. Magical Potion Lab Set up a pretend potion-making station with colored water, baking soda, vinegar, glitter, and other fun ingredients. Let them create their own magical mixtures! 4. Shadow Puppet Theater Use flashlights and cut-out paper characters to create a shadow puppet show on a blank wall. Let the kids come up with their own storyline. 5. Treasure Map Adventure Make a treasure map of your house or yard, hiding a small “treasure” for them to find. Let them create their own maps afterward and hide treasures for you! 6. Build a Storybook World Pick a favorite story and have your kids build a scene from it using LEGOs, clay, or craft materials. Then, encourage them to create their own spin-off adventure. 7. Silly Superhero Day Ask your kids to invent their own superhero with a unique power, name, and costume. Then, have them act out a heroic adventure! 8. Cardboard Kingdom Give them a pile of cardboard boxes, markers, and tape, and let them build their own castles, spaceships, or pirate ships. 9. Mystery Object Challenge Fill a bag with random household items and challenge your kids to come up with creative uses for them. (Example: "This spoon is actually a magic wand!") 10. Backward Day Flip the day upside-down—wear clothes backward, walk backward, talk backward (or in silly voices), and encourage them to imagine what a world of backward living would be like! These activities will not only fuel their imagination but also create great memories with them! Which one do you think your kids would love most?
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Parents looking for a way to engage their middle-grade boys in faith while fueling their love of adventure, look no further than Brock Eastman’s Edge of the Galaxy devotional! Designed to captivate young minds, this devotional combines thrilling sci-fi storytelling with meaningful biblical truths, making it the perfect tool for families who want to grow in faith together. How Parents Can Use This Devotional with Their Kids Edge of the Galaxy isn’t just a book to hand off to your child—it’s an opportunity for parents to connect with them through shared discussions and deep spiritual insights. Here’s how you can maximize its impact:
Middle-grade boys crave excitement, and Eastman delivers with a devotional packed full of space-faring action and high-stakes adventure. This book:
Every devotion in this book is designed to not only entertain but also connect young readers to their faith in a meaningful way. Through scripture-based lessons and high-energy storytelling, kids will:
Have you used this devotional with your kids? Share your experience in the comments! 🚀 Middle grade fantasy books open the door to magical worlds, daring adventures, and unforgettable characters. Whether it’s wizards, talking animals, or mystical realms, these stories capture young imaginations while teaching valuable lessons about bravery, friendship, and perseverance.
Here are 20 of the best middle grade fantasy books and series—perfect for young readers (and the young at heart)! 1. Harry Potter Series – J.K. RowlingA classic of modern fantasy, this series follows Harry Potter as he discovers he’s a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Packed with adventure, mystery, and heart, it's a must-read. 2. Percy Jackson & the Olympians – Rick RiordanWhen Percy learns he’s the son of Poseidon, he’s thrust into a world of Greek gods, monsters, and dangerous quests. A fast-paced series blending humor, mythology, and action. 3. The Chronicles of Narnia – C.S. LewisA timeless fantasy series about four siblings who stumble into the magical world of Narnia, filled with talking animals, evil witches, and the noble lion, Aslan. 4. The Hobbit – J.R.R. TolkienBilbo Baggins, a simple hobbit, is swept into an epic adventure with dwarves and a wizard as they seek to reclaim a stolen treasure from a dragon. 5. The Nevermoor Series – Jessica TownsendMorrigan Crow, a cursed girl, escapes death and enters the magical city of Nevermoor, where she competes for a place in the prestigious Wundrous Society. 6. The Land of Stories – Chris ColferTwins Alex and Conner fall into a book of fairy tales and must navigate the magical world, encountering familiar characters with fresh twists. 7. The Spiderwick Chronicles – Tony DiTerlizzi & Holly BlackSiblings Jared, Simon, and Mallory discover an old field guide and are plunged into a hidden world of faeries—some friendly, others dangerous. 8. The Wingfeather Saga – Andrew PetersonA beautifully written Christian fantasy series following the Igiby siblings as they uncover their royal heritage and battle against dark forces. 9. The Quest for Truth – Brock EastmanA thrilling adventure following the Wikk kids as they uncover ancient secrets, solve puzzles, and outrun their enemies in a race for truth and survival. Perfect for fans of action-packed, faith-based fantasy. 10. Fablehaven Series – Brandon MullKendra and Seth discover their grandparents’ estate is a sanctuary for mythical creatures, leading to magical adventures and perilous challenges. 11. The School for Good and Evil – Soman ChainaniBest friends Sophie and Agatha are whisked away to a magical school where fairy tale heroes and villains are trained. But their roles might not be what they expected. 12. The Green Ember Series – S.D. SmithA beautifully written fantasy featuring heroic rabbits fighting to restore their lost kingdom. Perfect for fans of Narnia and Redwall. 13. The Inkheart Trilogy – Cornelia FunkeWhat if you could bring book characters to life? Meggie and her father face thrilling consequences when they discover this power. 14. The Rangers Apprentice Series – John FlanaganA medieval-style fantasy where an orphan named Will is trained as a Ranger to protect the kingdom from dark forces. 15. The Unwanteds Series – Lisa McMannDubbed “Harry Potter meets Hunger Games,” this series follows Alex, who is sentenced to elimination for his creativity—only to find himself in a magical school instead. 16. The City of Ember – Jeanne DuPrauA dystopian fantasy where two children must uncover the truth about their underground city before it’s too late. 17. The Wildwood Chronicles – Colin MeloyA richly detailed, beautifully illustrated series about a hidden magical world just beyond Portland, Oregon. 18. The Keys to the Kingdom Series – Garth NixArthur Penhaligon, a seemingly ordinary boy, is thrust into a battle for control of a mysterious house that governs the universe. 19. The Mysterious Benedict Society – Trenton Lee StewartNot pure fantasy but filled with mystery, adventure, and brain-teasing puzzles as a group of gifted children take on a dangerous secret mission. 20. The Prince Warriors – Priscilla ShirerA unique Christian fantasy series where a group of kids enters an unseen spiritual battle in a realm beyond their own. Action-packed and full of deep biblical themes. Why These Books MatterMiddle grade fantasy books ignite young readers’ imaginations, teaching them about courage, kindness, and perseverance. Whether your child is just beginning their journey into fantasy or looking for their next great read, these books will transport them to new worlds full of wonder. Which of these books have you or your child read? Any favorites we missed? Let us know in the comments! Ah, St. Patrick's Day—the time when rivers run green, leprechauns make mischief, and everyone suddenly wants Irish heritage! But beyond the shamrocks and parades lies the incredible story of a humble man who changed a nation. Let’s step back in time and explore the life and legends of St. Patrick, and then we’ll sprinkle in some fun, family-friendly ways to celebrate this special day. The Story of St. Patrick: More Than Just Shamrocks St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, wasn’t actually Irish. Born in Britain in the late 4th century, young Patrick was kidnapped by Irish raiders and sold into slavery on the Emerald Isle. While tending sheep on the cold Irish hillsides, Patrick grew deeply in his Christian faith. After six long years, he escaped and returned home—but God had planted a seed in Patrick’s heart for the Irish people. In an extraordinary act of forgiveness and courage, Patrick returned to Ireland as a missionary. His mission? To share the Gospel and free the Irish from spiritual bondage. According to legend, Patrick used the three-leaf clover—the shamrock—to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Perhaps the most famous (and somewhat tall) tale is how Patrick banished all the snakes from Ireland. While historians debate the literal truth of this, it’s widely understood as symbolic: Patrick drove out pagan practices and brought the light of Christ to a land steeped in druidism. St. Patrick’s life is a powerful reminder of the call to forgive, serve, and stand firm in faith, no matter the cost. Bringing St. Patrick’s Day Home: Faithful and Fun Family Ideas So, how do we honor St. Patrick in a way that lifts up his true legacy? Here are a few family-friendly ideas that bring together faith, fun, and a touch of Irish charm: 1. Shamrock Craft & Trinity Lesson Gather the kids and make shamrocks out of green construction paper, felt, or even bake shamrock-shaped cookies! As you craft, talk about how Patrick used the shamrock to teach about the Trinity—three in one. 2. Family Storytime: The Life of St. Patrick Find a children’s book or short documentary about St. Patrick and his missionary journey. Take time as a family to reflect on what it means to share your faith with courage and compassion. 3. Cook an Irish-Inspired Meal Whip up a hearty Irish stew, soda bread, or colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage). For dessert, try a simple apple cake or “Irish flag” fruit platter with green grapes, oranges, and bananas. Gather around the table and thank God for His provision and the example of faithful missionaries like Patrick. 4. Go on a “Snake Hunt” Hide toy snakes (or make paper ones) around your home or backyard and let the kids “banish” them, just like Patrick. Afterwards, tie it into a short devotional about how Christ calls us to cast out sin and live in the light. 5. Green Parade at Home No Irish parade nearby? No problem! Host a mini parade in your neighborhood or living room. Wear green, play Irish music, and wave homemade flags. You might even teach the kids a simple Irish jig—yes, dads, this means you too! 6. Family Prayer for the Nations Remember Patrick’s missionary heart by praying as a family for Ireland and missionaries around the world. Ask God to raise up more servants like Patrick to share the Gospel. Maybe you'll find yourself serving as a missionary someday. The Heart Behind the Holiday St. Patrick’s Day is more than green attire and pots of gold. It’s a chance to remember how one man’s obedience to God helped transform an entire nation. So this March 17th, let’s raise our mugs (of root beer, of course) to St. Patrick—a man who turned captivity into calling, and fear into faith. Family Devotional: Casting Out the Snakes – Living in the LightScripture Reading: "Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them." — Ephesians 5:11 (NIV) Devotional Thought: When St. Patrick returned to Ireland, he didn’t just preach sermons—he brought the light of Christ into a place full of spiritual darkness. According to legend, Patrick drove out the snakes from Ireland. Whether or not there were real snakes, this story reminds us of a deeper truth: God calls us to drive sin out of our hearts and live fully in His light. Just like the snakes in Patrick’s story, sin can slither quietly into our lives—things like selfishness, anger, dishonesty, or fear. But Christ has given us the power, through His Spirit, to “banish” these snakes! He calls us to turn away from darkness and live boldly as children of the light. St. Patrick’s courage came from knowing that God was with him, no matter how hard the mission seemed. We, too, can stand strong, trusting that Jesus has already won the victory over sin and death. Family Reflection Questions:
Lord, thank You for sending Jesus to shine light into the darkness. Help us to recognize the things in our hearts that don’t please You, and give us the courage to turn away from them. Just like St. Patrick, help us to share Your light and love with others. In Jesus' name, Amen. Object Lesson: “Snake Hunt – Casting Out Sin”Supplies:
Optional:Give the kids a small "shamrock" cut-out or Trinity coin as a reminder to carry God’s light wherever they go. Fizzlebop Labs Presents a Fizzing Shamrock Experiment! SUPER SIMPLE AND FIZZY FUN!Traditional Irish Soda Bread RecipeIngredients:
Serve it warm, and it’ll disappear faster than you can say “Éirinn go Brách!” The Story Behind Irish Soda Bread Irish Soda Bread has humble, homespun roots, much like many cherished traditions from the Emerald Isle. Back in the 1800s, when yeast wasn’t readily available and ovens were often just a big pot over an open flame, Irish households needed a quick and reliable bread to grace their tables. Enter soda bread. The magic ingredient? Baking soda. When combined with the acidity of buttermilk, the soda reacts to create a natural leavening agent, causing the bread to rise beautifully without yeast. It was a lifesaver for rural families living on limited means, especially during the harsh days of the Irish Potato Famine. The famous cross scored on the top wasn’t just for looks. Folklore tells us that the cross helped ward off evil spirits (or let the fairies out, depending on who’s telling the tale). Practically speaking, it helped the dense loaf bake evenly, but Irish grandmothers would tell you it was more about keeping your home safe and blessed. Traditionally, soda bread was baked daily, served alongside hearty stews or simple butter and jam. And to this day, it’s a staple in Irish homes, especially during holidays like St. Patrick’s Day. An Irish Blessing for Your HomeMay the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, And rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand. ![]() Christmas is a season rich with traditions—some passed down through generations, others newly created to make the season even more meaningful. If you're looking for a fresh and faith-filled way to celebrate with your family, Saint Nicking at Night by Brock Eastman is the perfect way to start a new Christmas tradition. This heartwarming book brings the story of Saint Nicholas to life, inspiring families to embrace the joy of secret giving. Instead of just waiting for presents on Christmas morning, Saint Nicking at Night encourages families to take part in blessing others—anonymously—just as Saint Nicholas did. Imagine the excitement of your kids sneaking out at night (with your guidance, of course!) to leave a small gift on a neighbor’s porch, or secretly placing a note of encouragement in a friend’s mailbox. These small acts of kindness turn the focus of the season outward, reinforcing the true meaning of Christmas: giving, love, and Christ’s ultimate gift to us. This year, let Saint Nicking at Night be more than just a bedtime story—let it become a cherished family tradition. Whether you’re surprising a family in need, brightening someone’s day with a thoughtful gesture, or just teaching your children the joy of generosity, this book is a beautiful way to make Christmas even more special. Are you ready to start Saint Nicking this year? Grab a copy of Brock Eastman’s Saint Nicking at Night and make this Christmas a season of giving! #ChristmasTraditions #SaintNickingAtNight #BrockEastman #FaithFilledChristmas #FamilyGiving ![]() Fear can feel overwhelming, especially for kids who struggle with the dark—or even the light! But what if facing those fears meant stepping into someone else’s shoes (or, in this case, paws)? Afraid of the Light by Brock Eastman is a heartwarming children’s book that follows an unlikely friendship between Echo, a little monster afraid of the light, and Grey, a young boy afraid of the dark. When their worlds collide, they discover that fear often comes from misunderstanding, and by seeing things from another’s perspective, they can overcome their worries together. This beautifully written and illustrated story isn’t just about conquering bedtime fears—it’s about empathy, understanding, and embracing differences. Here’s how Afraid of the Light can help your child feel braver and more compassionate: ✅ See Fear Through a New Lens – Just like Echo and Grey learn from each other, children can recognize that fear is often based on what we don’t understand. ✅ Encourage Open Conversations – Ask your child what they’re afraid of and help them see it from another angle. Maybe, like Echo, the light isn’t so scary after all! ✅ Build Bridges, Not Barriers – The book’s deeper message teaches kids that different perspectives don’t have to divide us—they can bring us together. ✅ Make Fear Fun – Turn off the lights for a glowstick adventure or shine a flashlight to create shadow creatures. By playing with light and dark, kids can gain confidence in both. With Afraid of the Light, you’re giving your child more than a bedtime story—you’re equipping them with courage, empathy, and a new way to see the world. Grab a copy today and help your little one discover that sometimes, fear fades when we step into someone else’s world. #AfraidoftheLight #BrockEastman #OvercomingFear #EmpathyMatters #KidsBooks #ChristianParenting Afraid of the Light (Hardcover)![]() Father’s Day is a time to celebrate the special bond between dads and their children—the laughter, the love, and the little moments that mean the most. And what better way to honor that bond than with a heartwarming book that captures the joy of a father’s love? Daddy’s Favorite Sound by Brock Eastman is a beautiful reminder that the best gift a dad can receive isn’t something wrapped in a box—it’s the sweet sound of his child’s voice. This delightful story takes readers on a journey as a little one tries to guess what Daddy’s favorite sound could be. The answer? It’s the precious moments shared between father and child. This Father’s Day, create memories that will last a lifetime. Snuggle up for storytime, share giggles and cuddles, and remind the dads in your life that their presence and love mean everything. Looking for the perfect Father’s Day gift? Daddy’s Favorite Sound is more than just a book—it’s a cherished experience that celebrates the joy of fatherhood. Grab a copy today and make this Father’s Day extra special! #FathersDay #DaddysFavoriteSound #BrockEastman #ReadTogether #Fatherhood #Parenting ![]() Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the love, warmth, and sacrifices of the incredible women in our lives. This year, why not add a heartfelt touch to your celebration with Mommy’s Favorite Smell by Brock Eastman? This beautifully written and charmingly illustrated children’s book captures the precious bond between a mother and her child, reminding us that the sweetest scent isn’t flowers, candles, or fresh-baked cookies—it’s the embrace of someone we love. Reading Mommy’s Favorite Smell together is a perfect way to create a cozy moment with Mom or Grandma. Pair it with breakfast in bed, a handmade card, or simply some quality time, and you have a Mother’s Day gift that she’ll cherish far beyond the holiday itself. Give Mom the gift of laughter, love, and a story she’ll want to read again and again. Because at the end of the day, her favorite smell is YOU! #MothersDay #MommysFavoriteSmell #BrockEastman #ReadTogether #CelebrateMom The Next Decade in Space Exploration: A Giant Leap for Humanity
The next ten years in space exploration will be nothing short of extraordinary. From setting foot on Mars to mining asteroids and establishing permanent lunar bases, we are standing at the edge of a new era—one that will redefine our place in the cosmos. The 2020s were just the warm-up; the 2030s will be the main event. Back to the Moon—But This Time to StayNASA’s Artemis program is leading the charge back to the Moon, and this time, it’s not just a short visit. By 2035, we could see a permanent lunar base on the Moon’s south pole, where ice deposits could provide water, fuel, and oxygen. Private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are also developing lunar landers and habitats, making the Moon an active outpost for scientific research and deep-space missions. Why the Moon Matters
Key Milestones Toward Mars Exploration
Asteroid Mining: The Next Gold RushAsteroids hold trillions of dollars’ worth of resources, including water, iron, nickel, and even platinum. In the next decade, companies like AstroForge, Planetary Resources, and TransAstra plan to begin mining operations on near-Earth asteroids. Why This Matters
Big Developments to Watch
Meanwhile, missions like the Breakthrough Starshot project aim to send tiny spacecraft to Alpha Centauri, our nearest star system, at 20% the speed of light. While true interstellar travel is still far off, these missions could be our first baby steps toward visiting another star. Conclusion: A New Space Age is HereThe next ten years will be a turning point in human history. Whether it's colonizing the Moon, stepping foot on Mars, mining asteroids, or searching for alien life, space is about to become humanity’s new frontier. The question isn't whether we will explore the cosmos—it’s how fast we’ll get there. Buckle up. The future is going to be out of this world. |
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