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.