Unexpected Treasures Hardcover January 6, 2009 Signed Autographed Copy: Like new autographed copy! See our photos for details, signed by Victoria and Joel Osteen. Book has mint pages and a couple of tiny corner bumps to hard cover. See our photos for details. Wonderful copy at an amazing price! Victoria Osteen has gained recognition and respect as a co-pastor of the world famous Lakewood Church together with her husband and best-selling author, Joel Osteen. Her message of faith and love targeted towards women and children have gained her respect and a loyal following of her own. In Victoria Osteen's new storybook series, she takes her readers on exhuberant fantasy adventures that encourage children to use their imaginations to grow in their faith and inspiration. In this tale on the high-seas, two friends, "Captain" Jon and his "First Mate" Sue, embark on an adventure of imaganation and discovery. While exploring the world on their imaginary ship, they meet a grumpy old pirate who is looking for the ultimate treasure. Told with a yo-ho-ho and with sing-songy rhymes, these two adventurous friends teach the old pirate that the best treasure of all is the love in our hearts. A fun activity and crafts page at the end of the book encourages kids to implement the lesson they've just learned and to the adventure in their own daily lives. Editorial Reviews From School Library Journal Kindergarten-Grade 2—Captain Jon and First Mate Sue set sail on an imaginary pirate ship and rescue some stranded pirates, but are unable to salvage their treasure. While the crew members argue about whose fault the wreck is, Sue reminds them that although they lost their gold, they gained two lifelong friends. The new pals exchange tokens of friendship (a shell necklace and a treasure map). "'It's strange,' said Captain Curly Beard./And then he smiled real wide./'This giving stuff is really fun/I feel all warm inside.'" Osteen's text attempts to inspire readers to search for treasures within themselves and others, but the syrupy text is awkward and strains to rhyme. The overall effect is preachy, and the illustrations are uninspired and stiff.—Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren Waldoboro, ME Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. About the Author Victoria Osteen has always had an infectious passion and enthusiasm for life. A native Houstonian, Victoria began her career in her family's jewelry business and now works with the most precious treasure of all -- people. She is an inspiration and mentor to women everywhere as she ministers alongside her husband, Joel, and sets a wonderful example for their two children, Jonathan and Alexandra. Victoria is active in her community and committed to helping women, children, and families discover their purpose and reach their highest potential. Visit the Osteen website at www.joelosteen.com. Product details ASIN ? : ? B004WB19AS Publisher ? : ? Little Simon Inspirations (January 6, 2009) Language ? : ? English Hardcover ? : ? 32 pages Reading age ? : ? 3 - 7 years