A New York Times bestseller and National Book Award longlist selection The first book in a new trilogy from acclaimed New York Times–bestselling author Rae Carson. A young woman with the magical ability to sense the presence of gold must flee her home, taking her on a sweeping and dangerous journey across Gold Rush–era America. Walk on Earth a Stranger begins an epic saga from one of the finest writers of young adult literature. Lee Westfall has a secret. She can sense the presence of gold in the world around her. Veins deep beneath the earth, pebbles in the river, nuggets dug up from the forest floor. The buzz of gold means warmth and life and home—until everything is ripped away by a man who wants to control her. Left with nothing, Lee disguises herself as a boy and takes to the trail across the country. Gold was discovered in California, and where else could such a magical girl find herself, find safety? Rae Carson, author of the acclaimed Girl of Fire and Thorns series, dazzles with the first book in the Gold Seer Trilogy, introducing a strong heroine, a perilous road, a fantastical twist, and a slow-burning romance, as only she can.

The sequel to the New York Times–bestselling and National Book Award longlisted Walk on Earth a Stranger. After her harrowing journey west to California, Lee Westfall has finally found a new home—one rich in gold, thanks to her magical power, a power that seems to be changing every day. But this home is rich in other ways, too: with friends who are searching for a place to be themselves, just as she is, and with love. Jefferson—her longtime best friend—hasn’t stopped trying to win her heart. And Lee is more and more tempted to say yes. But her uncle Hiram hasn’t given up his quest to get Lee and her power under his control. When she’s kidnapped and taken to him, Lee sees firsthand the depths of her uncle’s villainy. Yet Lee’s magic is growing. Gold no longer simply sings to her, it listens. It obeys her call. Is it enough to destroy her uncle once and for all? Rae Carson, acclaimed author of the Girl of Fire and Thorns series, takes us deep into the gold fields as she continues this sweeping saga of magic and history, and an unforgettable heroine who must come into her own. Like a River Glorious is the second book in the Gold Seer trilogy.

As I thought about writing this book I had no idea where I was going to start. When you are overwhelmed by so much talent and love for the Lord, where do you start? My thoughts are of all the Hymn writers past present and future that love the Lord, and it shows in the writing of their hymns we have available to us today. I have always looked at music and in this case hymns, they are speaking to our souls. (True Soul Music.) Hymns have always been a big part of worship, they get our minds tuned and thoughts focused on the Lord and his great wonders. I find that they sometimes put praise on my lips and thanksgivings in my heart. I hope they do the same for you. Music moves the emotions. Some will make you cry while others will put joy in your heart. I took a ride this morning on my Trike, (my three wheel bike) and just enjoyed the lovely spring morning with all its newness. New leaves on the trees Tulips in full bloom. The air even smelled fresh, and I have the beauty of living alongside the Mississippi River in a small town in Southeast Minnesota. With this beauty, it put a song in my heart and makes me want to praise the Lord for his creation. You see, Worship can be done anywhere at any time, you don’t have to be in buildings with other Christians, but there is also a time for that as well. It is called corporate Worship where not just one voice goes up to the throne of grace, but many join as one. It was this beautiful ride that gave me the inspiration to write this book, and if you have decided to read it, my hope is that you enjoy it as much as I will in writing it. Since becoming a Christian about 38 years ago, I just love reading and writing about the Lord. The joy of every Christian should be getting to know Him in a more intimate way, and that is my hope of doing in this book. Think of it a devotional to help you do exactly that. There might be some instructions along the way as well. A good way to start this writing would be to quote the famous Protestant Reformer, Martin Luther. “ “I would allow no man to preach or teach God’s people without a proper knowledge of the use and power of sacred song.”

I have seen water move rocks. I have seen thistles break through boulders. If water and flowers can move stones, surely love can. Becca Stevens, from Funeral for a Stranger In this meditation on living and dying, Becca Stevens shares moving and hilarious stories about her life, love, friends, and our many families. This delicately formed narrative is also a window into the soul of a priest. I loved it and will hold it in my heart with gratitude for years to come. -Phyllis Tickle, author of The Great Emergence: How Christianity Is Changing and Why Loneliness finds connections, depair meets celebration, and fear discovers faith. Join Becca on her journey to a funeral for a stranger. God will be there. -Don Schlitz, Hall of Fame songwriter of The Gambler With elegant simplicity Becca Stevens escorts the reader to the banks of the deepest spiritual wellspring. Surely she ranks among our most gifted teachers on the things that matter most of all. -Stephen Bauman, author of Simple Truths: On Values, Civility, and Our Common Good

The Stranger's Compass continues where the author, David W. Thompson left off with his first book A Stranger's Journey. This book contains short, practical devotionals that have real life applications. These devotionals are based on questions and true life situations that have impacted David's personal life. His use of humor, satire and honest reflection give the reader insight into one man's journey through the everyday trials of walking the Christian life. It is a great tool for small group Bible study or personal devotions. David W. Thompson, in his own words, is the most unusual bank president in the United States. Besides being a banker for over 30 years, David is an ordained minister, church elder and men's Bible study leader. Other accomplishments include a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and qualifying to carry a concealed weapon. Mr. Thompson holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri. David's first book A Stranger's Journey has found its way to Europe and Australia. It is being used by members of the U. S. Army for small group Bible study. David remains sold out to Jesus Christ and making Bible application practical and interesting. You may contact David Thompson at www.strangersjourneybook.com.

The Black Student Workbooks are designed to get students thinking critically about the text they read and provide a guided study format to facilitate in improved learning and retention. Teachers and Homeschool Instructors may use the activities included to improve student learning and organization. Students will construct and identify the following areas of knowledge. Character Identification Events Location Vocabulary Main Idea Conflict And more as appropriate to the text.