Category Archives: Books

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Sheppard’s Last Lamb, illustrated by Alex Worthen is on sale at https://www.cedarfort.com/products/sheppards-last-lamb-hardcover

From the author of THE HOLY GHOST IS LIKE A BLANKET and I WANT TO BE BAPTIZED, this children’s book will help you follow your heart and accept the challenges of your life in a new empowering way. In this book, Sheppard Hill wants to be a wise man or an innkeeper in the Christmas pageant, but instead, he gets stuck as a boring shepherd—all because of his name! What’s even worse, he’s stuck helping his younger sisters too. But when he begins to think of Christ, can he turn this terrible turn of events into the best Christmas pageant ever?

AND MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!

The Holy Ghost

THE HOLY GHOST IS LIKE A BLANKET,” by Annalisa Hall, illustrated by Corey EgbertCedar Fort, (ages 8-10)

As children are baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they are then confirmed members of the church and blessed with the Holy Ghost.

That intangible notion can be confusing to an 8-year or older being, but Annalisa Hall and Corey Egbert portray caring parents using 12 real-life constants that can be compared to the Holy Ghost’s spirit.

“The Holy Ghost is like the wind. You can feel the wind’s power….You can feel the Holy Ghost in your heart…”

“The Holy Ghost is like a blanket. He is a special gift …to wrap you in a warm and comforting feeling when you are sad or need a friend.”

In end notes, the author has included scriptural references and appropriate song titles to correspond to each of the 12 objects in the book.

https://www.deseret.com/2013/10/13/20527376/book-review-the-holy-ghost-is-compared-to-real-life-constructs-in-a-child-s-life

#HolyGhost #Children #PictureBook #Illustrator #Comforter #Spirit #Read #GoodWorks #Literature #NonFiction #Intangible #Empower #Youth #Twelve

The Holy Ghost is Like a Blanket was originally published in October 2013 by Cedar Fort Inc. / Bonneville

Endorsed by: “Teaching our children about the Holy Ghost and inspiration is one of the most important things we do as parents. This book is perfect…!” — Merrilee Boyack, Author of The Parenting Breakthrough and Book of Mormon Children Stories

“… Respectful without losing kid appeal, The Holy Ghost is Like a Blanket will bring this quiet concept within reach for little readers eager to learn.” —Kelly Milner Halls, Writer

“The Holy Ghost Is Like A Blanket by Annalisa Hall is inspirational, timely, and a must-share with your children.” —Laura Taylor, Award-Winning Author & Editor

“… “Brilliant!” … It’s perfect for children about to be baptized. It put into words ways I have felt the Holy Ghost, but haven’t been able to fully articulate.” — Selena Pankretz

“Heartwarming and beautifully illustrated, children will immediately be drawn into its pages. The book is sure to become a family favorite.” — Rebecca Rode, author of How to Have Peace When You’re Falling to Pieces

“In this brave little book, Hall and Egbert somehow find a way to make the intangible tangible– and that’s anything but an easy feat.” — Bob Staake, Author/Illustrator

“…both a great introduction to and a great reminder of the comfort and power of the Holy Ghost…” Justin & Amy Hackworth, Photographer & Writer

“A beautiful book with an uplifting message for children and adults alike.” —Sheri Fink, International Best-Selling, Award-winning Author of The Little Rose

“…The illustrations are warm and inviting and the language is simple and clear, perfect for parents to read at bedtime or whenever they’d like to invite the gentle spirit into their home….” – Lehua Parker, author of One Boy, No Water

“Never before has there been such a complete comprehensive children’s book on the Holy Ghost, and for all ages. Unlike most children’s books, this book is full of scripture references, it teaches my children to study the scriptures and source truth at any age.  This is my new baptismal gift for every child, better yet, a gift for any child entering primary!” — Suzanne Calton, founder of More Than Aware

Sheppard’s Last Lamb

Sheppard, because of his name, ends up playing the less-than-glamorous role of the shepherd in his class’s Christmas pageant.

12 little lambs are found as Sheppard problem solves his way through shepherding his role as a good steward of his part in the Christmas pageant.

Easter Sunday approaches and this book would be a delightful additional to your household and book shelf.

Sheppard Hill wants to be a wise man or an innkeeper in the Christmas pageant, but instead he gets stuck as a boring shepherd-all because of his name! What’s even worse, he’s stuck helping his younger sisters too. But when he begins to think of Christ, can he turn this terrible turn of events into the best Christmas pageant ever?

“The Shepherd and the Lost Sheep” by Margo Mae (ARTICLE)

From Matthew 18:12–14 and Luke 15:3–7.

“Jesus taught people by telling them stories. …One day one of the sheep got lost. …When he finally found his sheep, the shepherd rejoiced. He put the sheep on his shoulders and carried it home. The shepherd called his friends together and told them how he had found his sheep. They celebrated together. [like Easter Sunday and Christmas Pageant celebrations] …”Jesus Christ is like the shepherd in the story, and we are like the sheep. Jesus watches over us and helps protect us from danger. …That is why the scriptures call Him the Good Shepherd.” Illustrations were by David Habben

Celebrate the Good Shepherd with SHEPPARD’S LAST LAMB by Annalisa Hall, illustrated by Alex Worthen

What does it take to be a good shepherd? Dress in the shepherd’s costume, act like the good shepherd, or finding sheep?

SHEPPARD’S LAST LAMB is about joy. Sheppard isn’t pleased he’s the SHEPHERD for the Christmas nativity performance, but he knows shepherds were special witnesses of Jesus Christ. He is given a toy lamb, he finds many more until his flock is whole, and this story teaches how the Good Shepherd is helpful, important, and kind. A lesson for children and adults alike to remember that we’re not whole until each one has been found, even the last lamb.

SHEPPARD’S LAST LAMB inspires children to embrace courage, kindness, and charity. Follow Christ like sheep follow their shepherd. Find and seek those weary and lost friends who need us.

THEMES Include: Christmas, Charity, Love, Self-Esteem, Tolerance, Problem Solving, Embracing and Accepting Yourself, Authenticity, Diversity

Also, lends for discussion about Jesus Christ, shepherds, sheep and lambs, Missionary Work, Search and Rescue, Hide and Seek

#Shepherd #Easter #Christmas #GoodShepherd #Children #Book #Illustration #Pageant #Angel #Zuri #Wheelchair #Cane #Sheppard #Story #Parable #Lost #Lamb #ProblemSolving #Empower #Cheer #Good #Literature #SCBWI

I WANT …

my books from a Target Super Store? Yes!! Click the link to buy my book direct from TARGET https://www.target.com/p/i-want-to-be-baptized-by-annalisa-hall-hardcover/-/A-85999532

Help your little ones recognize the joy, responsibility, and importance of being baptized. I Want to Be Baptized from the same author and illustrator who brought you The Holy Ghost Is like a Blanket depicts what baptism really means for children’s lives.

I WANT TO BE BAPTIZED is the prequel to THE HOLY GHOST IS LIKE A BLANKET and can help your loved ones be comforted by their promises and pathway toward eternal life. With illustrations by COREY EGBERT, this book delights the mind and soul.

Annalisa Hall was born to Alvin and Judy Holgerson, while her father worked at General Motors in Detroit. She was raised in her parent’s religion, and baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on her 8th birthday. She currently lives in Poway, CA, with her husband and their children.

BOOK REVIEW:: Aug 06, 2017 (3 Stars by J. Strong) Bookshelves: 2017children-sreligious-lds “This book explains to children in simple terms why baptism is important. While I like the overall points made as to why baptism is important and why we should be baptized, but I felt the explanations were a little long. In the back of the book there are references for each reason. I wish these had been included at the bottom of each page to give the explanations more weight.”

#Target #Shopping #Books #ChildrensLiterature #Review #Church #Baptism #Baptized #Lesson #Water #Soul #Eight #Great #Illustration #Peace #Choice #YouthBaptisms #iWANT #Option #Learning #ChildOfGod

Listen & Learn

The Holy Ghost is like a book.

A book uses words and pictures to teach. When you ask for help, the Holy Ghost helps you remember what to say and do. . .

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The Holy Ghost is Like a Blanket by Annalisa Hall, illustrated by Corey Egbert

*

I like to take a book to the beach with me. Sometimes I read the book, sometimes I just listen to the world around me. The ocean waves, the seagulls, people walking, cars behind me. . . and the world is noisy and quiet all at the same time.   When I focus on one thing, I ignore other things, but what I read, I learn. When I listen, I find that I’m either hunting for something or nothing. Therefore, I was thinking about how we learn from reading books and listening to the world around us. Just a few thoughts – – I wish you a very happy day!

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Feel Love

Today 12 June 2018 Cedar Fort, Inc. released the newest edition of THE HOLY GHOST IS LIKE A BLANKET with updated illustrations by Corey Egbert.

Get your copy of Annalisa Hall’s THE HOLY GHOST IS LIKE A BLANKET (Boy Version) here 

I love when siblings grow up and follow in the footsteps of their older sister. This younger brother has his own little story of how the Holy Spirit is special to him.

Your children don’t see the Holy Ghost, but that doesn’t mean they can’t feel His presence. With heart-warming illustrations, The Holy Ghost Is Like a Blanket depicts characteristics of the Holy Ghost by comparing them to objects children remember and relate to. These meaningful analogies will help your little ones recognize the Holy Ghost as a real influence in their lives.

If you’d be interested in reviewing a copy, please let me know.

Endorsed by: “Teaching our children about the Holy Ghost and inspiration is one of the most important things we do as parents. This book is perfect…!” — Merrilee Boyack, Author of The Parenting Breakthrough and Book of Mormon Children Stories

“… Respectful without losing kid appeal, The Holy Ghost is Like a Blanket will bring this quiet concept within reach for little readers eager to learn.” —Kelly Milner Halls, Writer

“The Holy Ghost Is Like A Blanket by Annalisa Hall is inspirational, timely, and a must-share with your children.” —Laura Taylor, Award-Winning Author & Editor

“… “Brilliant!” … It’s perfect for children about to be baptized. It put into words ways I have felt the Holy Ghost, but haven’t been able to fully articulate.” — Selena Pankretz

“Heartwarming and beautifully illustrated, children will immediately be drawn into its pages. The book is sure to become a family favorite.” — Rebecca Rode, author of How to Have Peace When You’re Falling to Pieces

“In this brave little book, Hall and Egbert somehow find a way to make the intangible tangible– and that’s anything but an easy feat.” — Bob Staake, Author/Illustrator

“…both a great introduction to and a great reminder of the comfort and power of the Holy Ghost…” Justin & Amy Hackworth, Photographer & Writer

“A beautiful book with an uplifting message for children and adults alike.” —Sheri Fink, International Best-Selling, Award-winning Author of The Little Rose

“…The illustrations are warm and inviting and the language is simple and clear, perfect for parents to read at bedtime or whenever they’d like to invite the gentle spirit into their home….” – Lehua Parker, author of One Boy, No Water

“Never before has there been such a complete comprehensive children’s book on the Holy Ghost, and for all ages. Unlike most children’s books, this book is full of scripture references, it teaches my children to study the scriptures and source truth at any age.  This is my new baptismal gift for every child, better yet, a gift for any child entering primary!” — Suzanne Calton, founder of More Than Aware

Love & Joy

AVAILABLE NOW! 😱🏆 The Holy Ghost is Like a Blanket -and- I Want to Be Baptized
Online or in stores.

It’s a whole lot of love for those who read, write and inspire children.  I’ve got plenty of author friends with new books coming out this year and I’m so happy for them.  We LOVE to see good books on the shelves for children to read, to listen and to learn.

Make a positive difference in your life by reading. Smile lots and celebrate the joy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Help prepare others for baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Property of Annalisa Hall

#LatterDaySaints

Happy Birthday

Tomorrow is my birthday.  I’ll be 39 years old.

21 years ago I exited high school and went to college. I eventually got a degree from BYU in English.

18 years ago I met the man who would become my husband. He challenged me to do better, be more, and our love grew. Together we now have three children (I’d say beautiful because I’m bias). This year the children all began different schools (elementary, middle & high school). I’m learning time management skills again.

In the last decade, I’ve written some 28 manuscripts (screenplays, novels, chapter books et al) and THREE (3) of those books are published. I’m not known for my math skills, but I do know that 3 out of 28 is OK odds 🙂

I imagine that in another 10 years we could be a grandparents. Our home might be paid off.  I’ll have traveled to more places that I can count on two hands. I can hope! So many things I can plan for, hope for, and see come to fulfillment. My personal journey is different from yours and that’s OK.

As each book comes to fruition, I’m impressed by others who try too. Those who persevere. I’m amazed by people who keep trying to better their work and produce goodness.  I’m in love with beautiful books that grew from little ideas and gathered shape and structure over time, care, and effort.

Mistakes help you learn.

Learn to recover, adjust, and press forward.

After all these years of learning, I’m certain of one thing – anything is possible with an eye single to the glory of God. Prayer is real, helpful and fortifying.

Tonight at “Back to School Night” one teacher said that sacrifices have to be made to be good at one thing. I agree.  I can’t be good at everything, but I can excel in many things and be perfect in one thing. . . . What’s your one thing?

 

 

Wonderful!

8+ years ago, I wrote a poem for my friend to help her young children understand the Holy Ghost. With encouragement from family and motivation by published authors, I submitted my work to Cedar Fort. Today, my books are on sale at Amazon! So surreal that I’m an RWA Pro, SCBWI Pal, and LDStorymaker 🙂 https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01FJ1EUFA?ref_=mw_olp_product_details

Happy Reading Friends!!

Illustration credits: Corey Egbert and Alex Worthen

Prayer & Fasting

San Diego LDS Temple

San Diego Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

I’ve often wondered how to improve my attention and obedience to the Holy Ghost and I discovered that fasting and prayer are marvelous tools.

Prayer allows us the opportunity to speak with God, the Eternal Father, in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ. We can talk to Heavenly Father in prayer about those things that are problematic or joyous to us. We don’t have to limit our conversations. He’s willing and wanting us to pray. After we’ve given Him our thanks and expressed the desires of our hearts, He sends the Holy Ghost, a vehicle of revelation, to speak to our heart, mind, and soul. To comfort and to inspire us as to which way to go or what to say or what to do. Those answers come quickly or over time.

Fasting is a physical challenge with spiritual blessings. We sacrifice meals to humble ourselves to the will of God. By giving up what we want, we’re in tune with the Spirit. We’re in tune with the whispering of the Holy Ghost to those things we’re in need of resolving or understanding. We come to the Lord in humility and gratitude for which we profit everything by submitting to His will and desires for us.

When we’ve come with clean hands and pure hearts, we’re granted the clarity by the Holy Ghost to see those things that are needful. The better part. The best. And Heavenly Father only wants the best for us. He is training us to listen, to learn, and to love Him, as He loves us.

For now, I wish you joy and love. Smiles!