Raised Right

This is a tough book to review - partially because I'm still working out my views on some of the topics addressed. It was, however, timely.

While I can't agree completely with the author's stance on some points, I admire the way she has fought to untangle her faith from her political viewpoints. I believe that too many people use their faith to back up their politics, when really, faith has nothing to do with a political party.

It doesn't seem that the author has fully untangled her faith from politics - though, granted, I think faith tends to become entwined in nearly every aspect of a Christian's life. Her thought processes are interesting though, and she does a wonderful job of putting her sentiments down on paper. Understanding her way of thinking has helped, somewhat, to clarify my own. For this reason, I think it's worth reading.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah through Blogging for Books - their book review program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

December 1941

This book should be on the list of any WWII history buff. It is a well-researched, fascinating look at the days immediately surrounding the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
It's a good long book, but the author manages to keep it pretty lively as he follows the events leading up to and following the attack. It's an interesting look into the general psyche of that day.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson through BookSneeze - their book review program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

To Be Perfectly Honest

This book was quite fantastic. I really enjoyed Phil Callaway's account of one year of living truthfully. The book is written like a journal, so I read a few entries each day when I had spare moments. His account is so human, so very honest, and so very relatable.

It's surprising how dishonest we are - even in trying to live truthfully. Little "white lies" so often work their way into our lives, without us even noticing. This book will really get you thinking about how truthful you really are.

I loved how Phil also really had to use tact in telling the truth. He didn't blast people with exactly what he felt, but he thought his feelings through in order to present the truth in a way that would be accepted (when at all possible).

This book was certainly a challenge. I'll possibly leave you a little bit uncomfortable. However, it's worth the read - and the ensuing food for thought might just do wonders for your integrity and character.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah through Blogging for Books - their book review program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

The Encounter

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. To be honest, I really didn't expect much. It sounded mildly interesting, and the message of the book was worth a read, so I went ahead and got it.

It turned out to be well-written and really quite engaging. I read the whole book in a day (it's fairly short), and truly enjoyed it.

It's not an epic tale or anything groundbreaking; however, the message of forgiveness and reconciliation is beautifully presented in story form, and the author has done a wonderful job weaving his personal experience into the book.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

The Scroll

For starters, the cover really doesn't sell this book. I had the option of reviewing it, and kept passing it up, just because the cover is so unappealing.

Still, I love a good Indiana Jones-esque treasure hunt, so I figured I'd give this book a try. I kept picking it up, hoping it would get interesting, but I'd end up putting it down after a few pages.

After a while, the story picks up, but even then, the characters are "stock," the plot twists are pretty predictable, the bad guys are all Islamic or secular, and the good guys are all Christians/Jews.

Overall, it's not awful, but neither was it especially good. This is why I give it three stars.

Pershing - From The Generals series

Thomas Nelson's series "The Generals" chronicles the lives of great American generals, and it's a very well-done set of books, in my opinion. The content is well-written, well-researched, and the physical quality of the books is just fantastic.

This book was a short, yet fascinating look into the life of John J. Pershing, who led the American forces in WWI.

It was an interesting look at both sides of his personality - on the one hand, an inflexible, demanding military leader, and on the other, a warm, caring man who cared deeply about family and friends.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

Ascent From Darkness

This book by Michael Leehan is a rather eye-opening look at one man's descent to Satanism. What I found fascinating was that he almost rationally chose to turn his back on God, and to turn instead to Satan. Because he felt that God had dealt poorly with him, he made the decision to turn to what he saw as God's "alter-ego."

This is a true story, and as the author says, it's not embellished or exaggerated to make for more exciting reading. Not that any embellishment would be necessary in this story. While Michael Leehan doesn't seem to be a natural writer (his style is not always easy to read, and much of the dialogue is stilted and odd-sounding), he tells his story candidly and powerfully. He drags out the good, the bad, and the really ugly in order to get his message across - and it's the message that comes through loud and clear in the end.

His message: "Remember, no matter how badly you think you’ve sinned or what kind of mess you may have made of your life, it probably pales in comparison to mine. Never give up, never lose hope. Jesus Christ specializes in fixing broken messes just like us.”

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

Wrapped in Rain

This was a gorgeous story, beautifully written. It's a story of redemption and forgiveness; of getting past immense pain to a place of mercy.

Tucker and his brother grew up under the thumb of an abusive, alcoholic father, but wrapped in the love and care of Miss Ella - their hired help. Miss Ella instills a deep faith and love in both boys despite all that their father throws at them.

After Miss Ella passes away, Tuck still hears her voice. As he listens, she is able to guide him through the pain to place of forgiveness.

Set in the deep south, the author paints a beautiful picture that's almost visible as you read. I could hardly put this book down. Not only is it a beautiful, well-written story, but the message of forgiveness comes across loud and clear.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

Don't Check Your Brains at the Door

I just finished reading "Don't Check Your Brains at the Door" by Josh McDowell and Bob Hostetler. It was quite a fantastic little book, filled with common-sense answers and perspectives on various aspects of the Christian faith.

Each section is short and to the point, yet written in an enjoyable, teen-oriented way. The authors freely sprinkle in pop-culture references to illustrate their message, which makes the book (I believe) more appealing and relevant to modern youth.

I'd recommend this both for teens themselves and for youth pastors/counselors/parents as a resource for teaching - and just for answering the myriad questions that teens have about their faith.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book

It Couldn't Just Happen

I recently received this book by Lawrence Richards, and I have to say, I was a little disappointed. I expected a book that would engage kids and explain the Creationist viewpoint in a simple, understandable way.

This book seems to be more like a textbook - not something that kids would just pick up and read, but something that parents/teachers would need to work through with them. If you're looking for something that your kids will read on their own, this isn't it.

I think this could be a useful resource for teaching kids about creation, however, I highly doubt that this book is going to appeal to kids on an individual level. It's a beautiful book, well made, and good quality for the money, but I just don't see it appealing to its target audience - eight-year-old kids.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book

The Blessing

I just finished reading "The Blessing" by John Trent and Gary Smalley. It's a beautiful book with a beautiful message. If I could, I'd put this on the "must read" list of every potential parent. Come to think of it, I'd put in on everyone's "must read" list.

This concept of giving "The Blessing" is a simple one, but it's sadly absent in today's society. So common in ancient culture, the gift of the blessing has been lost to cultural change and social expectations.

I have seen so many kids who are practically begging for a blessing - for affirmation and a confirmation of a parent's love - yet the parents are unable or unaware of how to fill this need.

"The Blessing" details in simple steps how to provide these things to a child - or even to a parent, spouse or friend.

I highly recommend this book.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

Money Secrets of the Amish

Finding True Abundance in Simplicity, Sharing, and Saving

This book was a surprisingly enjoyable read. Most "money books" are a dry and tough read. Lorilee Craker manages to take a rather dusty topic and give it spark.

While the information wasn't anything new - at least it shouldn't be - it's wisdom that seems to be sadly lacking in many homes today. I do recommend this book, as I believe in this economy folks can use all the help they can get.

You don't need a lot of money to have a good life; you just need to manage it well. This book has good advice on how to do that.

A Reluctant Queen

Review by my wife:

I absolutely enjoyed this book. The author does take some creative license with the story, as she provides background and reasons for the actions and attitudes of the various characters; she creatively fills in historical gaps, rounding out the story and giving it greater depth.

The story of Esther is a beautiful one, and Joan Wolf did a wonderful job in telling it. While this book is a novel, and can't possibly accurately reflect the true story (seeing as the Bible recording only provides so much information), the message of the story comes across loud and clear - and that is what I found so appealing.

As the author says in the end, "Where the Bible story and the novel come together is in the underlying premise. God has a plan for the world, and He works His plan through the actions of humans. The big question is, will we allow God to work through us? God wants us to be His partners, but we have the free will to accept or refuse His challenge. In the Judeo-Christian tradition, all of God’s people must listen to His voice and open their hearts for Him to use us for His purposes."

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

Doing Virtuous Business

As I am building a small business, building on virtuous practices and Christian ethics is extremely important to me. I got this book, hoping that it would provide a comprehensive look at virtuous business practices - a guide book of sorts, that would offer insight into how to deal fairly and rightly in the business world.

Unfortunately, Malloch only rehashes the very basics of "doing good" in business - aimed mainly at large corporations. Now if only some CEOs of those large companies would pick this book up.

I can't really give a good recommendation on this book. It wasn't very helpful and didn't provide relevant information for anyone who already tries to uphold a moral standard in their life and business.

How to Write a Book Proposal

It's long been a dream to become a published author, so I jumped at the chance to read this book by Michael Larsen. This book was a pretty easy read - straight forward and to the point without a lot of unnecessary information.

I'd recommend this book to anyone looking to become a professional writer as it not only contains helpful information on getting published, but also plenty that can be applied to writing in general.

Unfortunately, I'd only give this book three stars. The reason for this is that while it contains much helpful information, that same info can be found on many publishing websites for free.

If you want to avoid the time spent researching online, go ahead and get this book. However, if you want to save money, go ahead and spend a little time googling questions you have and you'll find many of the same answers that this book provides.

Beyond Talent

Another fantastic book by John Maxwell. In this book (as the title suggests) Maxwell makes the point that talent is only the beginning of success. You can be extremely talented, but end up going nowhere. So what makes the difference between those who succeed and those who don't? Here are a few things that successful people know and practice:

* Belief lifts your talent.
* Initiative activates your talent.
* Focus directs your talent.
* Preparation positions your talent.
* Practice sharpens your talent.
* Perseverance sustains your talent.
* Character protects your talent.

He encourages people to turn raw talent into something more, something bigger. His writing is encouraging, challenging - and if actually implemented, the lessons taught in this book (I believe) could lead to far greater success than you'd imagine.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

The Final Summit

I nearly didn't get this book. After reading "The Heart Mender" by Andy Andrews, and not enjoying it much at all, I wasn't sure about getting another of his books. This one, however, sucked me right in and I was hooked pretty much from start to finish.

While I didn't agree with certain specific points, most of the book was fantastic - and exactly what I needed to read right now. It's challenging, motivating, and a good kick in the butt. READ WITH A HIGHLIGHTER.

The characters in the story are developed beautifully - the Angel Gabriel in particular is fantastic. Each historical figure is brought vibrantly to life, showing good research (and a little creative license). Each one crackles with character - the dialogue is very well-written.

This book is a sequel to "The Traveler's Gift." I haven't read the first one, so I'd suggest reading it before going on to this one. "The Final Summit" stands on it's own, but there are some references to the first book and gaps that need to be filled in. I'm getting the first book now.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

The Band That Played On

I really wanted to like this book. When I read the concept of this book, I was excited to read it. I understood it to be a closer look into the lives of these brave men - I expected something a little more intimate, I guess. I hoped it would provide an insight into their character that enabled them to stand so strong in the face of such tragedy.
What I found instead was a very dry, impersonal account - providing a lot of dates, places and names, but not much else. I love a good biography - I've read many, and always enjoy them. This book, however, was just too impersonal, too distant from the lives of these men. It was a tough read.
I guess I can't blame the author though. Not much is known about these seven men, so finding information on them was a tough task. I imagine it wasn't easy patching together a good story with the scraps provided.
Nonetheless, I wouldn't buy this book, and I wouldn't recommend it to others.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

The Promises She Keeps

Another book review by my wife:

Promise, a talented young vocalist with a terminal illness, is counting on fame to keep her memory alive after she dies. Porta is an aging witch and art collector in search of the goddess who will grant her immortality.

When Promise inexplicably survives a series of freak accidents, Porta believes that Promise is the one she seeks. But Chase, an autistic artist who falls in love with Promise and opposes Porta, comes between the women with his mysterious visions and drawings, and plunges everyone into a flesh-and-blood confrontation over the true meaning of eternal life.

Erin Healy spins a good story. Her beautiful writing style combined with an intriguing plot makes for a very pleasant read. Characters are well-developed and relatable. Dialogue is thoughtful and realistic. Supporting elements are woven in masterfully.

Unfortunately, the story ends rather abruptly, in my opinion. Ends are tied up quickly, so while the story ends ok, I felt it wasn't "finished." But maybe that's just me. Overall though, I'd say this book is worth reading.

I am a big Ted Dekker fan. Having written a couple books with him, Erin's writing is very reminiscent of Dekker's - which was a nice plus to this book.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

Voices of the Faithful

This is a daily devotional book, compiled by Beth Moore. Beth grew up hearing stories of missionaries who regularly visited her home as a child. The stories stirred her imagination and gave her a heart for missionaries around the world. Those stories of her childhood spurred her to write this book.

Each month covers a different aspect of Christian life, providing a daily Bible verse and a short devotional. The interesting thing about this book is that each devotional is written by a different missionary in a different country - providing a fascinating look into a wide variety of cultures, experiences, and challenges.

While not all of the devotionals are particularly poignant - some seems a bit pointless (or just filler) - the majority of the book is feeding and thought provoking.

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.