Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin is an exciting adventure in the ancient Roman Empire at the time of Christ. Eight-year-old Marcus and his father are on a mission for the emperor and visit a mine and a mint where coins are made. Marcus himself makes a denarius, a coin with the emperor’s image.
Marcus goes to Jerusalem where he sees Jesus hold a denarius saying, “Give to the emperor the things are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” What will seeing Jesus mean for Marcus, and will he ever be the same again?
Young Marcus and his father embark on an important mission for the the Emperor, facing many dangers along the way.
A fun book to read with the whole family. Marcus wants to be a help to his father, and tries his best to stay out of trouble, though at times his curiosity gets the better of him! I loved how we learn more about the denarii and how it was made, as we travel with Marcus. There are also solid messages about doing what is right, and giving to God what is God's.
Overall, such a great book, with a encouraging story that includes fun facts and cool history. I loved the solid themes of a solid father son relationship, doing your best, courage, and trusting God.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This historical Christian picture book would be ideal for primary grade children to learn about biblical times and about money. This is the second book in the In God We Trust series, but each one stands alone. The audio on this book was well done and the text easy to follow, whether or not you see the illustrations. (I had only audio version.) I enjoyed learning more about life in the Roman Empire and how coins were made then. Marcus seemed a likable and curious boy, one readers can relate to and will enjoy journeying with through this story. He even gets to see Jesus preaching! Children also learning about giving with an open heart. This tale offers plenty to discuss whether in a classroom or with and individual child. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
I was excited to see the second book Marcius and the Emperor’s Coin “In the God We Trust Series”. Last year I had the pleasure of reviewing The Two-Cent Piece. This was the first book in the series. Marcus is about to embark on his first journey with his father. This is an important mission for the Emperor of Rome. His father needs to check on the quality of silver at the mine. Afterward, they will travel to the place where the coins are made. Then they will transport the coins. The mission could be dangerous as they could get robbed. Many soldiers will travel with them to protect the coins. Marcus’s father reminds him that he must be careful and not to make any mess ups. Marcus knew that his father was talking about how clumsy he could be.
It didn’t take Marcus long to show how clumsy he can be. He fell off a horse, and cut up his hands and legs in the mines. On top of that, he hit his thumb at the place where the coins were being made. Then on a ship to Jerusalem Marcus almost ended up as fish bait leaning over the rails. Marcus was making a mess of the mission. At the camp near Jerusalem Marcus woke up before sunrise. What he saw was men clothed in dark clothes sneaking into camp. He didn’t know where the guards were. Marcus yelled out “THIEVES”, and saved the mission.
What happened next was the most important event of the journey to Jerusalem. He hears Jesus talking to the crowd. His words put him on a new mission. This is a 7-part “In God We Trust” series for children. I was delighted to see a book with a historical flare and a message of our Savior. The book is appropriate for young elementary ages. Illustrator Courtney Smith creates the illustrations in this book. The illustrations are lovely and eye-catching, Dennis Conrad also includes links at the back of the book on coin collecting.
My daughter has been collecting coins for a while and gets excited about anything with coins. I had some ancient Israeli coins which she had to look at again. Not the Roman coins mentioned in the book but, they could be around the same era.
At the end of the book, you will find information about how to collect coins.
A wonderful book for kids that are interested in collecting coins and learning about history.
Disclosure: I received this complimentary product in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin Offers Many Lessons for Readers. This short book contains various lessons and discussion opportunities for young readers and parents or caregivers. From learning about coins, the coin-making process, history, and geography to life lessons about unconditional love, mistakes, purpose, confidence and courage to lessons in Faith, Scripture and serving God--this little book holds so much for Christian readers! While set in another time and place, the story is easy to read and relatable for little readers and grown-ups alike! There is an educational section of the book dedicated to the Scripture introduced and learning more about some of the terms and information included, as well as some extra resources to further engagement.
The Text and Illustrations Combine for an Engaging Story. The simple illustrations highlight the characters' emotions and simplify the points for young readers and listeners. While some of the storyline is quite serious as Marcus encounters some dangers and mishaps, the book is created in a way that offers something for readers of all ages. Whether it's a silly look at Marcus' sore thumb when he banged it while learning to make coins--or a pondering look at the night sky while reflecting on God's message--the book engages readers on many levels from start to finish.
Would I Recommend Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin? This book is a wonderful little story to share life lessons and Christian messages with young readers. While the book could be read and enjoyed by an independent reader, many subtle messages make it perfect as a family storytime read or read-along. This book is great for families seeking to make learning something new, like coin collecting or Roman history, a little more entertaining. I would definitely recommend this book for families with multiple children as the messages are relatable and adaptable for various ages.
This delightful story (audiobook) is about young Marcus, who accompanied his father on a very special mission during the days when Jesus was teaching and ministering to people, almost two thousand years ago. Marcus wants to please his father and understands that his father doesn’t want anything to go wrong on this journey. Knowing that he is clumsy at times, he is very concerned that he could do something to hinder the mission without meaning to. Marcus was eager to go someplace new and try things he hadn’t done before, so his experiences on the journey and at each stop would stay with him for a long time.
I appreciated how the author included the mint where the coins were made, and said how they were made. Marcus had a great learning experience there, and subsequently on the trip to deliver the coins to Jerusalem. While there, he had experienced the high point in the journey, an event that helped grow his faith, ask questions about what he heard, and have a profound effect on his life.
This audiobook would be a fun activity for parents (or teachers) and children together. It could be a lead-in for Bible stories about Jesus and the child’s faith. For children who ever feel clumsy when they want to be at their best, impress their parents, and try new activities, it could bring confidence and acceptance. With the section of information especially for the adults in the young readers’ lives, the parents can understand the word choices made to embrace the child’s skill level. Learning a little about coins and how to help a child or children begin coin collecting if they are interested could be an adventure for a family or an individual child. The audiobook narrator speaks clearly, is easy to understand, and includes inflections and individual character “voices”. I highly recommend this!
From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this audiobook from the publisher through Celebrate Lit and Audible, and this is my honest review.
Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin is a delightful book. Marcus’ excitement and energetic personality are infectious. The sense of something important about to happen is done well and you are along for the ride.
The author handles our fear of messing up when doing things of importance so delicately it is a perfect setup for the climax later on in the book. (Had to edit out a spoiler)
- Through Marcus, we learn that no matter our doubts, fears, or insecurities trying and not giving up allows God to help us reach the goal ahead.
- Through Marcus’ reigning in his desire to dance and shout, we learn that there’s a time and place for everything.
I felt that this book demonstrated Romans 8:28 which says, “All things work together for good for they who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.”
We all have a purpose in this world and this was a pivotal moment for Marcus where he realized that he can be used by God. Not only does this book include a lesson about faith. It also includes a lesson about coin collecting, which is the author’s lifelong hobby and I found that very unique. I also loved the correlation of the series title of In God We Trust to the fact that it is written on American coins.
There are also scripture references in the back of the book, information about actual denarii, and coin collecting which add more value to the book.
I recommend this book to parents, churches, classrooms and libraries. Every child needs an introduction to Jesus and needs to see that no matter their perceived failing, they still have a useful part to play in God’s Kingdom and society.
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is written voluntarily.
Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin by author Dennis Conrad is a Christian children’s picture book and Book Two in the In God We Trust series. Delightful illustrations are done by Courtney Smith. This is a fabulous book for children ages three to ten years of age that are interested in learning about coins and ancient times of when Jesus walked the Earth. This is a 52 page hardback book that is also available in kindle and audible.
This is the tale of a young, awkward boy named Marcus. His excitement and bubbly personality jump off of the pages and encourage readers to join his adventure. He is afraid that he is going to do something wrong and disappoint his father on their mission to deliver coins to Jerusalem. Marcus learns many things on the trip like how silver is mined and coins are minted. He has a few mishaps, too.
Children will enjoy the thrilling adventure Marcus and his father have. The illustrations are cute and go along with the story perfectly. The writing in simple and easy for children to follow and understand. After the story is a small glossary of terms used as well as scripture. The author has included questions about the story to help engage children. This is not only an entertaining book, but an educational and inspirational one, too. It provides a great faith message for children.
This is a lovely book. It is perfect for a Sunday School, Children’s Church, DayCare, and every home library. Many children could get their start in coin collecting by reading this brilliant series. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
Do you have an up and coming coin collector? Or maybe you have a history buff? Or want books related to scriptural passages? If so,this is the second in the series you should get.
The story is simple but interesting in how the two main characters, a father and son, come to not only bring coins but make a denarius. Marcus, the young boy is concerned that he will mess up this mission but ends up saving it.
As the story unfolds he meets a messenger of a different kind who makes him think about the money he just made. "Give to the emperor the things that are his, and to God the things that are God's."
In his pondering he comes to know that he is now on a very different mission and ready for it.
I liked this book's story. Children can certainly relate to wanting to please their parents but the side catch of being interested in things, in this case coins.
What is a nice little addition is a glossary of terms, scriptural passages, terms about the particular coin, and how to collect coins.
5 stars.
Disclosure: The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. PLEASE NOTE: I do review all different groups, ethnic groups, religions etc. I attempt not to place my own ideas into reviews but base reviews specifically on the book I am reading. ~Michelle,Reading Authors Network
This second book in the In God We Trust series takes us all the way back to the time when Jesus was here on earth and the Romans were pretty much the superpower of that day. We meet a young boy named Marcus and his father. One day Marcus's father takes him on a journey to check on the minting of coins for the emperor. His father states that he needs to be careful as this journey is not only important but could be dangerous as well.
As they travel, Marcus is met with many trials that comes from just being young and inexperienced. He tries his very best to endure everything quietly and stoically. However, there are just some accidents that he finds himself in that he needs to be rescued. And there is danger about.
Marcus also learns about mines and how the money is minted. He and his father meet Jesus and hear his words about money on their journey. This gives Marcus more to ponder about and ask his father.
I liked how this was a story book that took the scripture of Matthew 22:15-22 and based a whole story around it. At the end of the book kids along with their parents can check out how to be a coin collector.
I was provided a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
“Marcus and the Emperor's Coin” is not only an entertaining read, but an educational one as well. It takes place during Biblical times, where young Marcus accompanies his dad on an important mission. He is known to be a bit clumsy, so he hopes he doesn’t mess things up. I love how eager he is to help his dad, learn about mining silver, and making coins. And it’s most rewarding when he discovers the meaning of what Jesus teaches in the marketplace.
In addition to this inspirational story, the book offers wonderful teaching moments, with information on pertinent Scripture verses, coin collecting, Emperor Tiberius Caesar, and more.
The wording is lengthy, but easy to understand, and the full-page illustrations offer wonderful visuals. This book is suitable for elementary-aged readers, especially those who enjoy adventure stories.
First Line: Marcus hopped from one foot to the other. Series: In God We Trust series, book 2 Genre: Children Author: Dennis Conrad Page Count: 52 Reading Age: 5-10
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin is a cute book targeted at children. It’s a Biblical story with history lessons to share as well. You have the option to read it in book form or listen to it as an audiobook. I was given a copy of the audiobook to listen to.
I found the story to be a good one. The characters were wonderful. They seemed real. The language was suitable for children but I didn’t find it dumbed down. This book teaches about printing coins and also about Jesus. Adding in some fun history from the early years of civilization rounds out the book nicely.
For an age range, I would suggest around 2-10 for listening to the book. While some of my older kids did listen in as well, they were not as spellbound or interested in the book. I included my two-year-old in this because she did enjoy the story and listened intently. She was able to answer questions after listening as well.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
As Marcus navigates his mission, his endearing struggle with clumsiness adds a relatable touch to the storyline. Despite his apprehensions about potential mishaps, Marcus emerges as a hero by thwarting robbers and saving the mission. The pivotal moment occurs when he internalizes Jesus's advice, sparking a profound self-reflection on what he can offer to God.
The narrative entertains and educates, incorporating valuable information on coin collecting, identification, relevant scriptures for deeper understanding, and a handy glossary of terms. Simple language makes the book accessible to early readers and those being read to, enhancing its suitability for Christian families and Sunday Schools.
In "Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin," Dennis Conrad skillfully blends adventure, faith, and moral lessons, creating a delightful reading experience for young audiences. The book's engaging narrative and Courtney Smith's illustrations make it a worthy addition to the In God We Trust Series, providing wholesome content for children on their spiritual journey.
You can find my review of book one of the In God We Trust series here: www.ginaraemitchell.com.
Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin is another great addition to Dennis Conrad’s In God We Trust series. The books are well made, and come in hardcover/ board books, and the cover design and illustrations are very well done and attention capturing for young kids as well as those who are reading to them! I appreciated the note in the back that added how the author edited the book and swapped out some of the words that made it harder for children to read, and used easier synonyms to aid children in reading. I think this would be a great book for both a read aloud and for teaching children to read, and would also be great for those who aid in children’s ministry or Sunday school classes!
While the book is a work of fiction, the author put time into using accuracy in his descriptions and explanations on the coins as well as the time period, and referencing the Bible. I found it to be a pleasant way to educate children on some of the lessons and stories in the Bible as well as to educate those interested in coins and coin collecting.
Children's Picture Books are an excellent way to introduce young ones to the wonderful world of reading. Marcus and the Emperor's Coin by Dennis Conrad is a Faith Based Picture Book for young kids. It is Book 2 in the In God We Trust Series.
Marcus and his Dad are helping the Emperor and they visit a Coin Mine and Mint. Marcus is excited that he made a coin with the Emperor's image on it. Marcus sees Jesus in Jeruselum and Jesus is preaching about “Give to the emperor the things are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” What will Marcus do after hearing this message?
I really enjoyed this book. The book has so many learning experiences including the Roman Empire times and Jesus in Jeruselum. I personally loved the part where they visited the Coin Mine and Mint and learning about the making of coins. Marcus and his Dad had a fantastic mission and it was a great seeing father and son being portrayed in this book! It is VERY well written and the Illustrations are just amazing. I HIGHLY recommend this Faith Based Historical Fiction book for Kids! WONDERFUL BOOK!
An Adventure in Ancient Rome Through the Eyes of a Child
This is the first children's audiobook by Dennis Conrad that I've listened to, and I chose it because I have grandchildren and wanted to see if it would be appropriate for them. I was pleased with how simple the storyline was while still conveying a rich and deep message. The story follows eight-year-old Marcus and his father on a mission for the Emperor, visiting places like mines and mints where coins are made. Marcus even gets to make his own denarius.
The highlight of the book is when Marcus travels to Jerusalem and hears Jesus say, "Give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s." This powerful moment made the story truly special. It's a wonderful adventure set in ancient Rome that children can enjoy and learn from. I highly recommend this book. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
Note: I received a copy of this audiobook from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
Dennis Conrad’s second book in the In God We Trust series is a real charmer. With history, adventure, and faith MARCUS AND THE EMPEROR’S COIN is another winner for children and families together. Educational and inspirational.
THE STORY: Eight-year-old Marcus and his father are on a mission for the emperor and visit a mine and a mint where coins are made. Marcus himself makes a denarius, a coin with the emperor’s image. His father enlists Marcus to join him on a mission to deliver the precious coin to the emperor in Jerusalem. Awkward and clumsy Marcus almost jeopardizes the undertaking with his mishaps, he wonders if he is worthy of such an important mission.
Highly recommended for readers between ages 5 and 8, but also delightful for parents to read with their children. Beautiful messages of acceptance, love, and faith journeys.
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review.
I loved this book about Marcus and how he was going on a trip to help his dad with an important mission. The writing was really well done by the author and engaging. This is a religious children's book series for my religious young readers out there! I liked the parts where Marcus was a bit of a messing up kid and he wasn't sure that he could complete the emperor's mission. This is a great message for all kids who need to know that you can do great things even if you may mess up here and there. My 8-year-old loved the story, and she especially loved the pictures in this book, she said that the pictures were great to imagine the story. My favorite part as a mom and educator is the ending where we get to hear about the history of the Denarius and also the Roman Empire at the time. That and the verses of the bible are a great teaching moment for the kids who read this book.
Suggested reading age is 5 - 10 years old, I would say it’s closer to 8 - 10 yrs old. I thought it was a shorter picture book but it is more in depth than that. That said, it’s well written and will hold the imagination of most children as Marcus and his father go on an adventure, and Marcus learns how to make a coin.
Author Dennis Conrad brings in the teaching of Jesus’ about giving to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and does it in a simple way so a child can understand.
The illustrations are well done and children will be drawn to them. I especially like that the back of the book contains information and history to help children learn more about both coins and biblical history.
I recommend buying this for the child in your life, or adding it to your library.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Like most kids, Marcus likes to play and act up. When his father takes him along on an exciting, and important journey, he’s worried he might cause his father some unnecessary consternation. They travel with horse, and later board a ship to reach distant destinations, where finally they see Jesus speaking to a crowd about a coin bearing the image of Caesar Tiberius.
The talented author weaves a poignant story, based on scripture, and the vivid illustrations make it easy to follow along. If you’re looking for a sweet, gentle tale with a fabulous message, you’ll want to stock up on a few copies for Christmas gifts.
I just finished reading Marcus and the Emperor's Coin. The author used a sweet boy named Marcus to teach the history of coin minting during the time of Christ. The boy is clumsy and accident prone. At the end of his trip, he has an encounter with Jesus and hears his teaching about paying taxes. By the end of the book, Marcus has discovered God and his purpose in life.
The illustrations are colorful and captivating. I looked forward to each one. Any children's book that leads to Jesus is worth it's weight in gold . . . or at least a denarius.
What a fun, inspirational and educational read! Dennis Conrad did such a wonderful job penning Marcus and the Emperor's Coin. Not only do readers get biblical references, they will also get an introduction into coin collecting - something I think young readers should learn about. And it's done in a creative way. With bright, beautiful illustrations as well, this picture book is a must have in homes across America!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Travel on an adventure set in the first century. Marcus joins his father in an important mission for the emperor. One they can’t mess up. This is a challenge for Marcus, a young boy who wants to please his dad, but is a bit clumsy and constantly hurts himself.
I love how his journey ends in Jerusalem and that hears Jesus speaking about giving to Ceasar what is of Ceasars’, and to God what is of God. This sends Marcus on an internal quest to find what is of God. Perfect ending, great illustrations. I highly recommend it.
Though there was a part of the first book in this series that I didn’t like, I liked the idea behind it so well that I was happy to give Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin a try. I like all of it! I like the things that Dennis Conrad included about the process of making coins, and the way he tied Jesus into the story. I love the clumsy hero of the story as well; he is someone that children can relate to. This is a book I’m looking forward to having on our shelf!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
What a delightful story! The narrator does a fine job, using various voices for the characters, which makes the story come to life. Any young child is sure to enjoy this story.
The audiobook pairs well with the physical copy, as there is a faint "ding" to signal when to turn the page. It is also fine as a stand-alone audiobook, though.
I look forward to sharing this with my five-year-old grandson, or maybe even the little boy I used to babysit. If you know a young child, around ages 5-10 or so, be sure to grab a copy for them.
Marcus goes with his father on a perilous adventure for the Emperor. Along the way Marcus has adventures that teach him not only about the love of a father, but also about the rich history of the denarius. Children can relate to Marcus’s insecurities and blunders. Great as an introduction to coin collecting and history, and a great stocking stuffer idea for the upcoming holidays!
This was a wonderful story for kids. The illustrations are beautifully done. I love that it is easy to understand, and that kids can learn a lot while reading it either by themselves or with their parents. This book is perfect for kids of all ages. I highly recommend this one, as well as the first book in this series.
**I received this book as part of the CelebrateLit blog team. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Readers, this tale is a fun adventure with learning along the way. Marcus is a child that other children can identify with since he makes mistakes and gets embarrassed when he messes up or gets hurt. The information on coins during Jesus’ time was fascinating. I like that this addresses a lesson from Jesus that is most likely not in most Sunday school curriculums. I really enjoyed the narrator's voice and manner of speaking. A pleasant listening experience.
This was a cute book for kids! I listened to the audiobook which was short enough that it would be a good listen while in the car with the kiddos. The plot was cute and easy to follow and the characters were very likable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Dennis Conrad’s delightful story helps kids learn that they are not defined only by their mistakes. God can use even someone who is clumsy or accident prone to do His work on earth. I also love the coin facts in the back of the book
I Love the In God We Trust series by Dennis Conrad!!! I have The Two Cent Piece as well! This book is beautifully written and illustrated and I would highly recommend it to Parents, Grandparents, Teachers, and to Anyone wanting to read Great Books with Children! There is a significant Segway into the Hobby of Coin Collecting and also in helping a Child form a Relationship with Jesus! Again, I Love this Special book and really enjoyed reading it!