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.