Browse all books

Books published by publisher Our Rainbow Press

  • The Giving Me

    Lydia Criss Mays, Fran Battendieri

    Paperback (Our Rainbow Press, )
    None
  • Quran: A Reformist Translation

    Edip Yuksel, Layth Saleh al-Shaiban, Martha Schulte-Nafeh

    Paperback (Brainbow Press, Aug. 16, 2007)
    • The Reformist Translation of the Quran offers a non-sexist and non-sectarian understanding of the divine text; it is the result of collaboration between three translators, two men and a woman. • It explicitly rejects the authority of the clergy to determine the likely meaning of disputed passages. • It uses logic and the language of the Quran itself as the ultimate authority in determining likely meanings, rather than ancient scholarly interpretations rooted in patriarchal hierarchies. • It offers extensive cross-referencing to the Bible and provides arguments on numerous philosophical and scientific issues. • It is God's message for those who prefer reason over blind faith, for those who seek peace and ultimate freedom by submitting themselves to the Truth alone. "A bold and beautiful translation that serves as a timely reminder to all believers that the Qur'an is not a static scripture, but a living, breathing, ever-evolving text whose sacred words are as applicable today as when they were first uttered by the Prophet Muhammad fourteen centuries ago." - Reza Aslan, PhD., CBS News Consult-ant; Author, No god but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam. "A testament to the fact that faith need not suffocate reason. This is bound to be among the smartest of 'smart bombs' in the battle of ideas within Islam." - Irshad Manji, Fellow, Yale University and author, The Trouble with Islam Today: A Muslim's Call for Reform in Her Faith. "I completely agree with you in your rejection of the right of any group to arrogate to themselves the sole interpretation of the Quran.... Your effort is praiseworthy. Well done. Keep it up." - Kassim Ahmad, former president of Malaysian Socialist Party and head of Malaysian Quranic Society who was declared "apostate" by religious authorities for his controversial work on the Prophetic Traditions. "This translation is the best tool for those who want to understand the uncorrupted Message of Islam - justice and peace. This translation shows that the Quran is but the confirmation and continuation of God's system memorialized through Abraham, demonstrated in Torah through numerous prophets, and in the Hebrew Gospel through Ye-shu'a/Jesus, the righteous of God. This translation is a message of peace, justice and judgment..." - Gershom Kibrisli, theologian and communal leader, The Karaim of the Early Hebrew Scriptures, Holy Land & Benelux. "This Reformist Translation of the Quran and its ancillary materials should begin many conversations, between and among Muslims and non-Muslims alike. In many parts of the Muslim world this is a dangerous discussion, and sometimes that danger can reach well into the West, as evidenced by the 1990 fatwa-inspired murder of Rashad Khalifa in Tucson, Arizona. It is an important discussion, however, and the editors of this book have assumed this risk to argue for a perspective that sets violence aside both in discourse and living. One can imagine that a broader adoption of their perspective across the Muslim world would reduce strife and invite greater examination of Islam by non-Muslims as something other than a threat. It would expand the conversation." - Mark V Sykes Ph.D. J.D. Director, Planetary Science Institute. "Very Interesting and Timely" - Riffat Hassan, Ph.D. Professor of Religious Studies and Humanities at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. A pioneer of feminist theology in the context of the Islamic tradition. "Quran: A Reformist Translation is also unique because it is the product of collaboration between two key figures in the pre-sent-day Qur'anist movement: Edip Yuksel and Layth Saleh al-Shaiban." - Aisha Y. Musa, PhD, Professor of Islamic Studies, Florida International University; author of An Examination of Early and Contemporary Muslim Attitudes toward Hadith as Scripture (Doctoral Dissertation, Harvard University, 2004).
  • Quran: a Reformist Translation

    Edip Yuksel, Martha Schulte-Nafeh, Layth Saleh al-Shaiban

    eBook (Brainbow Press, May 19, 2010)
    The Reformist Translation of the Quran offers a non-sexist understanding of the divine text; it is the result of collaboration between three translators, two men and a woman. It explicitly rejects the right of the clergy to determine the likely meaning of disputed passages It uses logic and the language of the Quran itself as the ultimate authority in determining likely meanings, rather than ancient scholarly interpretations rooted in patriarchal hierarchies. It offers extensive cross-referencing to the Bible and provides arguments on numerous philosophical and scientific issues. It is God's message for those who prefer reason over blind faith, for those who seek peace and ultimate freedom by submitting themselves to the Truth alone.A bold and beautiful translation that serves as a timely reminder to all believers that the Qur'an is not a static scripture, but a living, breathing, ever-evolving text whose sacred words are as applicable today as when they were first uttered by the Prophet Muhammad fourteen centuries ago. REZA ASLAN, CBS News Consultant; Author, No god but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam.A testament to the fact that faith need not suffocate reason. This is bound to be among the smartest of 'smart bombs' in the battle of ideas within Islam. IRSHAD MANJI, Fellow, Yale University and author, The Trouble with Islam Today: A Muslim's Call for Reform in Her Faith. Every conversation begins with a single voice. This Reformist Translation of the Quran and its ancillary materials should begin many conversations, between and among Muslims and non-Muslims alike. In many parts of the Muslim world this is a dangerous discussion, and sometimes that danger can reach well into the West, as evidenced by the 1990 fatwa-inspired murder of Rashad Khalifa in Tucson, Arizona . It is an important discussion, however, and the editors of this book have assumed this risk to argue for a perspective that sets violence aside both in discourse and living. One can imagine that a broader adoption of their perspective across the Muslim world would reduce strife and invite greater examination of Islam by non-Muslims as something other than a threat. It would expand the conversation. - MARK V SYKES Ph.D. J.D. Director, Planetary Science Institute.Very Interesting and Timely - RIFFAT HASSAN, Ph.D. Professor of Religious Studies and Humanities at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. A pioneer of feminist theology in the context of the Islamic tradition. I completely agree with you in your rejection of the right of any group to arrogate to themselves the sole interpretation of the Quran. The Quran, being a book containing divine knowledge and wisdom, can only be understood progressively. It has to be interpreted anew by every generation and through a scientific methodology. Your effort is praiseworthy. Well done. Keep it up. - KASSIM AHMAD, former president of Malaysian Socialist Party and head of Malaysian Quranic Society who was declared apostate by religious authorities for his controversial work on the Prophetic Traditions. This translation is the best tool for those who want to understand the uncorrupted Message of Islam - justice and peace. This translation shows that the Quran is but the confirmation and continuation of God's system memorialized through Abraham, demonstrated in Torah through numerous prophets, and in the Hebrew Gospel through Yeshu'a/Jesus, the righteous of God. This translation is a message of peace, justice and judgment. I pray that the Reformist translation of the Quran will replace all others not only because it is the best but also because it is the closest to the original Arabic text. - GERSHOM KIBRISLI, theologian and communal leader, The Karaim of the Early Hebrew Scriptures, Holy Land & Benelux. --BrainBowPress
  • The Listening Me

    Lydia Criss Mays, Fran Battendieri

    Paperback (Our Rainbow Press, July 31, 2014)
    The Listening Me helps children develop the lifeskill of listening. Strategically crafted, this book provides children with listening invitations to practice and understand the importance of listening. From rising in the morning, to resting their head on the pillow at night, children are invited to interact with the world as a listener and critical thinker. The Listening Me includes two unique additions that were crafted by brilliant contributors who work steadfastly to make the world a more kind place for all. A PARENT DISCUSSION GUIDE, written by Stephen de Groot from Getting to Better is included to help adult readers deeply connect with their children while reading. A CHILDREN'S ACTIVITY GUIDE, written by Orly Wahba, of Life Vest Inside, is included that extends invitations in the book to real world experiences.
  • Boy Town: Gay Young Adult Romance Stories

    Derek Clendening

    language (Rainbow Reader Press, May 1, 2015)
    From the heartwarming and hilarious to the heartbreaking, these six gay young adult romance stories chronicle the fictional lives of gay teen boys.Coming Out PartySean doesn’t want to just come out of the closet—he wants to do it in style. So, he throws a ‘Coming Out’ party and invites all his friends and family for his big announcement. But really, he wants to let Dusten Michaels, the boy of his dreams, know he’s available. But for all his effort, Dusten doesn’t seem to take his hints. Sean nearly goes mad going back to the drawing board repeatedly. Will Dusten ever fall in love with him?First KissFor band mates Kris and Dane, everything changes when they finally kiss. Their feelings are out now and they have to deal with them. But Dane just can’t deal with his. Just before they’re set to compete in a Battle of the Bands, Dane runs scared. Kris knows he has to win Dane back now or lose him forever.Slam Dunk!Cooper has the hots for Ian. And he knows he can get him. After all, he’s the six-foot-five, hunky basketball player and Ian is totally bookish. It’s supposed to be a ‘slam dunk’ for Cooper—but not so fast. As nerdy as Ian is, he won’t just give in to Cooper’s charms. If Cooper wants even one date with this nerd, he’ll have to earn it.Secret RomeoConnor is sure his dorky glasses are why ultra-stud Will Petrie didn’t notice his love poem. Jock-hunk Ty Grom wishes he could write like Connor to romance Will. After being promised his ‘leftovers’, he agrees to write poems for Ty to anonymously give to Will, knowing he’s writing his love away. Hilarity ensues as Will demands to finally see the boy behind the poems . . . .Gay for JayBen has been making out with his best friend Jay for weeks . . . but he’s straight. How’s that supposed to work? At the same time, he’s totally into a girl named Natasha. When both Jay and Natasha push him to turn their relationship into something more, Ben must decide to either be gay for Jay or lose his best friend forever. From the heartwarming and hilarious to the heartbreaking, these six gay young adult romance stories chronicle the fictional lives of gay teen boys.Coming Out PartySean doesn’t want to just come out of the closet—he wants to do it in style. So, he throws a ‘Coming Out’ party and invites all his friends and family for his big announcement. But really, he wants to let Dusten Michaels, the boy of his dreams, know he’s available. But for all his effort, Dusten doesn’t seem to take his hints. Sean nearly goes mad going back to the drawing board repeatedly. Will Dusten ever fall in love with him?First KissFor band mates Kris and Dane, everything changes when they finally kiss. Their feelings are out now and they have to deal with them. But Dane just can’t deal with his. Just before they’re set to compete in a Battle of the Bands, Dane runs scared. Kris knows he has to win Dane back now or lose him forever.Slam Dunk!Cooper has the hots for Ian. And he knows he can get him. After all, he’s the six-foot-five, hunky basketball player and Ian is totally bookish. It’s supposed to be a ‘slam dunk’ for Cooper—but not so fast. As nerdy as Ian is, he won’t just give in to Cooper’s charms. If Cooper wants even one date with this nerd, he’ll have to earn it.Secret RomeoConnor is sure his dorky glasses are why ultra-stud Will Petrie didn’t notice his love poem. Jock-hunk Ty Grom wishes he could write like Connor to romance Will. After being promised his ‘leftovers’, he agrees to write poems for Ty to anonymously give to Will, knowing he’s writing his love away. Hilarity ensues as Will demands to finally see the boy behind the poems . . . .Gay for JayBen has been making out with his best friend Jay for weeks . . . but he’s straight. How’s that supposed to work? At the same time, he’s totally into a girl named Natasha.
  • My Fair Brady: A Gay Young Adult Romance Story

    Derek Clendening

    language (Rainbow Reader Press, Dec. 3, 2015)
    Teddy and Dakota are the hottest, most influential boys in school and now Teddy wants the chance to prove it. Teddy bets Dakota that he can turn the school’s dorkiest kid, Brady Kempster, into a stud for Fall Fling. Only Teddy doesn’t count on the sparks that will fly between him and Brady, no matter how dorky or amazing he may look. But, as far as Dakota is concerned, the bet is still on, and he’ll do anything to win.
  • The Magic Mirror and Other Stories: 5 tales of magic and fun for older children

    Frances Cashman

    eBook (Rainbow Press, Feb. 12, 2015)
    The Magic Mirror tells of Katelyn's thrilling journey to the strange and rather scary land of Saragocia to release the magic mirror found in her new home from the wicked spell put on it many years ago by an evil magician called Dorominex. She is guided in her daring exploits by Antonio, the Spirit of the Mirror. However, she must come face to face with both wicked witch, Golwessy Evandora and Dorominex before finally achieving her noble goal.In Esmerelda's Magic Flute, Esmerelda is a pixie with great musical talent. She is delighted when rewarded with a flute with magical powers by Planderbil, the Chief Pixie She can make people feel happy or sad, sick or well, anything she wants them to feel actually - simply by playing it. However, using this special gift wisely proves more difficult than she imagines. She has valuable lessons to learn before she can prove herself worthy of such a unique reward.The story of how Billy-Bob Mc-Alistair joins the circus as a clown is an interesting one. He soon becomes known as the funniest clown in the world. However, after many years, something sad happens and poor Billy-Bob fears he may never again smile let alone make anyone. Young Mr McFee, the circus owner as well as the ring-master, comes up with a plan. Will it succeed though?Int The Violet and the Rose, a kind old lady named Beth loves flowers and even talks to them. More surprisingly, flowers have a language of their own which we humans can neither hear nor understand. One day, Beth has an especially beautiful bunch of flowers, each of a different variety. She loves the rose most of all even though she loves all her flowers dearly. However, the violet is inclined to be jealous of the rose and can even be rather nasty to her. Beth's little granddaughter, Rachel comes to visit. Life changes for the flowers, particularly the violet.In Grandma's Star, when Tom's grandma dies, he runs away, afraid of being sent to an orphanage. That night, all alone in the dark, to his great surprise, a star speaks to him, introducing himself as Florence, his grandma's star and saying that he will always be there to take care of him. Tom''s greatest wish is to join Florence in the sky. During his exciting adventure, he meets the Great Fish of Knowledge, the good Witch of Wilderington Forrest, Whiitey, the snowman and his wife, Snowball and Wonderbolt the Flying Horse.
  • The Mystery of Esteron: Roxiltons, Warnicks, and Transcritters

    Barbara Gorski, Eva Gorski

    Paperback (Rainbow Fan Press, June 2, 2019)
    Eight-year-old Freddie’s uncle and cousin have disappeared in an exotic country during a business trip. To save them, he and his family must travel to this magical world populated by legendary Leshies and robotic knights who turn into monstrous animals. Freddie feels like his wildest dreams are materializing, but is unaware of the harsh reality he must face, especially when civil war erupts between two armies: the heroic Roxiltons and the evil Warnicks!
  • Wrestling with Love: A Gay Young Adult Romance Story

    Derek Clendening

    language (Rainbow Reader Press, Nov. 1, 2015)
    For the first time ever, T.D. Austin is willing to make a commitment . . . he just doesn’t expect to be forced to prove it. When he meets fellow high school wrestler Colton McGuire, he knows he’s in love for the first time, but Colton’s heard all the stories about his player ways. T.D. gets one date, one chance to prove he can keep his sights set on just one boy. What he doesn’t count on is a date full of chaos and hilarity that could pin anyone to the mat. T.D. Austin might have to prove much more to prove to Colton that he’s ready for love if he wants to win this hunky stud’s hand.
  • Boy Fever: Gay Young Adult Romance Stories

    Derek Clendening

    language (Rainbow Reader Press, Aug. 1, 2015)
    From the hilarious to the touching, these six gay young adult romance stories chronicle the fictional lives of gay teens who just might have a case of ‘Boy Fever’Falling for JeffCharlie has been asked to the prom by his best friend Jeff who’s perfectly wonderful—and perfectly straight. They’re the talk of the town, in fact, and Charlie wants to enjoy the moment. Still, he can’t help but think this isn’t a real date and he wants to have all of Jeff instead of just a piece. What happens on the dance floor turns both their worlds upside down.Out of my LeagueChase forgets about his love letter to high school baseball sensation Ryan Logan as soon as he sends it. And why not? Chase is dorky and Ryan is a star jock. But when Ryan shows up at his door, he refuses to believe Ryan could want anything to do with him. Now he makes Ryan do the chasing just to see if it’s all for real of if it’s too good to be true. This gay young adult romance story blends humor with the heartwarming and shows that no one is truly out of anyone’s league. Kissing BoothTired of being fired from every after school job, Dallas Maxwell decides to make money for his Friday night dates by doing something he’s great at—so he sets up a kissing booth in the school cafeteria. Only he’s hoping a very particular boy, Enzo di Larricia will stop by his booth. When Enzo shows his interest, he immediately plays hard-to-get and Dallas Maxwell won’t be denied. He does, however, fall victim to the tricks Enzo has up his sleeve. Caught Kissing JoeNow that Tristan is out, he’s faced with new feelings: a total case of the hots for his brother’s best friend Joe. Hoe has always been an obnoxious pain in the butt, but now Tristan not only sees him differently, but he’s sure he’s falling in love. Tristan’s not the only one who feels that way. When things heat up, and their feelings boil over, Tristan’s brother catches them kissing. Now Tristan must not only iron one the new feelings he and Joe have for each other, but he must also teach Shawn to accept it. All About Making OutDallas Maxwell scores a drive-in movie date with basketball stud Will Petrie. To him, drive-in dates are all about making out. Problem is, he can only go on Friday night when Dallas is scheduled to work at the very same drive-in theatre. In this gay romantic comedy of errors, Dallas does everything to keep his date—and his job—so Will won’t forget about him.ReboundThomas Olsen isn’t into jocks. Nothing against them, but they’re just not for him. That’s why, when basketball hunk Matt Grayson comes into his life, he turns him down. Repeatedly. As sweet and painfully persistent as Matt is, Thomas won’t date a jock. He’s just out of a relationship and not looking. But Thomas soon realizes how special and unique Matt really is and he wonders if he’s simply on the rebound. Thomas just hopes he can fix his mistake before a great guy slips out of his grasp.
  • Out of my League: A Gay Young Adult Romance Story

    Derek Clendening

    language (Rainbow Reader Press, July 2, 2015)
    Chase forgets about his love letter to high school baseball sensation Ryan Logan as soon as he sends it. And why not? Chase is dorky and Ryan is a star jock. But when Ryan shows up at his door, he refuses to believe Ryan could want anything to do with him. Now he makes Ryan do the chasing just to see if it’s all for real of if it’s too good to be true.This gay young adult romance story blends humor with the heartwarming and shows that no one is truly out of anyone’s league.
  • We Eat Food That's Fresh

    Angela Russ-Ayon, Cathy June

    Hardcover (OurRainbow Press, June 19, 2009)
    A whimsical chef introduces young children to fun food experiences that stir up their interest in fruits and vegetables. Join them as they pick from the garden, prepare in the kitchen, and relax by the shore. The chef wants the children to try something new, and they just might, before he s through. Easy rhymes and repetitive verses are combined with deliciously colorful pastel illustrations. This picture book comes with a companion song, audio book, and instrumental on CD
    M