Last good book?

Love for Books

Hobbies. Most people have them, you know the things you like to do? The things you would rather be doing at any given moment. Many people enjoy reading. We all know the benefits of reading, improved vocabulary, opportunity to learn something new, time to use your imagination, and the list goes on. Bottom line, reading is good for you. Which is why you'll hear about those bookworms who attempt to read 52+ books a year. Well, that's not my intention. My intention is to simply read more. As time goes on, I hope to share with you some fantastic books I've loved.  So what's the last book you've read and enjoyed recently?

Prayer Circles, draw the circle

Draw the CircleThe 40 Day Prayer Challenge

By Mark Batterson
Published by Zondervan

Book Description

Do you pray as often and as boldly as you want to? There is a way to experience a deeper, more passionate, persistent, and intimate prayer life.

Drawing from forty days of true stories, Mark Batterson applies the principles of his New York Timesbestselling book The Circle Maker to teach us a new way to pray. As thousands of readers quickly became many tens of thousands, true stories of miraculous and inspiring answers to prayer began to pour in, and as those stories were shared, others were bolstered in their faith to pray with even more boldness.

In Draw the Circle, through forty true, faith-building stories of God’s answers to prayer, daily scriptures and prayer prompts, Batterson inspires you to pray and keep praying like never before. Begin a lifetime of watching God work. Believe in the God who can do all things. Experience the power of bold prayer and even bolder faith in Draw the Circle.

My Thoughts: 

This book drew me in, I found myself reading more than one chapter at a sitting. The short concise chapters made it an easy read. I was encouraged and challenged by the faith of the people in the stories the author shared. This book can challenge your prayer habits and perhaps help you change up your devotional time to become more productive and powerful. At times, I found myself rooting for the prayers that were prayed and found myself excited to hear how God answered those prayers, even it it was a not now answer. I too prayed a prayer and God answered with a challenge. The challenge is shared here on my other blog, 42kmfromhere

While I have not read Batterson's Book "The Circle Maker" Which this book is a spin-off devotional. Overall, I would recommend this book to someone looking at strengthening their prayer life and perhaps their faith.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Discover who your Jesus Is...

Jesus Is

Find a New Way to Be Human

By Judah Smith
Published by Thomas Nelson

Book Description

Jesus is ____. How would you finish that sentence?

The subject is there, and so is the verb, but what comes next? Your answer could shed light on the path to becoming who you were made to be.

In these pages, Judah Smith fills out that sentence again and again, each time further revealing the character of Jesus. He writes as if to a friend, illustrating the importance of Christ’s message to modern men and women. This is a book for new believers, for lifelong followers, and for the merely curious. Judah Smith shows us the Jesus that somber paintings and hymns fail to capture. With passion, humor, and conviction, he shows that Jesus is life. Jesus is grace. Jesus is your friend. Jesus is a new and better way to be human.

My Thoughts

The words Jesus, Grace, Faith... conjure up different meanings and feelings to everyone. Jack Hayford an American Pastor defines Grace as:  “Grace is God meeting us at our point of need in the Person of Jesus Christ.” 

In his Book, Judah Smith focuses on how Jesus Is your friend, is Grace, is Happy, is Here and is Alive. This book served as a great reminder that Jesus is a friend, is grace and so many other things. It also serves as an encouragement to look at Jesus and seek Jesus more.

I enjoyed this book and it was an easy read over the course of a weekend. I found myself laughing out loud numerous times as Judah shared some comical stories, while other moments found myself in tears has he shared touching stories.

Some of my favourite quotes from the book Judah Smith wrote:

(forgive the lack of page references, I read this book my iPad and page references change depending on the size of the font.

-  “I wonder what Jesus said in one short afternoon that changed a lifelong taker into a lavish giver.”

-  “Don’t allow the opinions of other people to shape your concept of him.”

-  “Get to know him for yourself, and let the goodness of God change you from the inside out.”

-  “The common denominator is that we all need help.”

-  “When we meet grace, it becomes the fuel of our faith.”

-  “Grace focuses on the abundant life Jesus freely gives us.”

Next Steps:

- Check out your local bookseller to find  the book for yourself, you may find yourself singing Michael Jackson’s song “Human Nature” as you read it. 

- Join the conversation online. Fill in the blank of what/who you think Jesus is on the book's website.
 - Or follow the conversation on twitter with #JesusIs. 

  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Discover what you are chasing....through this 8 part DVD Study

Chase DVD-Based Study

By Jennie Allen
Published by Thomas Nelson

Product Description:
What are you chasing?

We’re all chasing after something, something that we think will make us happy—comfort, success, a bigger house, or someone’s approval. But if we are all honest, it feels like trying to catch the wind.

A man after God’s own heart… As David’s life weaves throughout the pages of Scripture, we see he was a man who spent his life chasing after God. Chase explores the events that defined David’s life and the Psalms that flowed out of those experiences. Through David’s example we’ll discover what God really wants from us.

The lessons in this study are simple yet deep and very interactive, offering Bible study, stories, and projects to dig into Scripture and deeply engage the mind and heart. God has carved out a space in each of us that only He can fill. So whether you are running from God or working your tail off to please Him, David’s journey will challenge your view of God.

God is invisible, and yet He is the only thing we can chase that won’t leave us feeling more empty.

Study Kit Tools:
Study. The study guide uses projects, stories, and Bible study to engage the mind and heart. There are seven weeks of Bible study and an introductory session for your group.

See. Eight short but deep videos provide a starting place for meeting God and for transparent conversations. Each video is 8-12 minutes long.

Ask. Conversation cards offer questions for spontaneous and authentic discussion time. You choose the questions that speak to you.

Lead. The leader’s guide prepares you to lead this study and encourages you along the way.

MY  THOUGHTS:
What I love about this product is it reaches out to different learners. Through the Study Guide participants can read/experience the material personally in the stories. In the See Videos, participants are gathered to a "starting" place for conversations to begin or continue. In the Ask Conversation Cards, they help prompt each person to share their experiences/opinions/beliefs. And the Leader's guide prepares the leader and helps each session move along easily even for the in-experienced small group leader.

The study asks you, "What are you chasing?" So often, we find ourselves caught up in the midst of EVERYTHING that is in our lives. Career, family, relationships, material possessions, meeting the expectations of others. Chase helped bring me back to the place I needed to be. Being more like David and chasing after God's heart.

So would I recommend Chase? Absolutely recommend this study. The workbook provides many thought provoking questions. That will help lead you to where you ought to be. 


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I am Second Review. A book by Doug Bender & Dave Sterrett

Publisher's Synopsis:
Countless stories. One incredible ending.
A major league baseball player. a Tennessee pastor. A reality TV star. a single mom. A multi-platinum rocker. What do these people have in common? They’ve all hit bottom. And none of them stayed there.

Famous or unfamiliar, these are the stories of real people who reached the end of their strength, the end of their control, and found the most surprising truths. It taught them not to rely on self or substance but to lean on the only completely reliable source of love, hope, and freedom: the God who created them. Shocking in their honesty, inspiring in their courage, these testimonies are critical reminders that no one is too far from God to find him.

Join these and thousands more who have discovered the lifechanging power in putting God first and proclaiming, “I am Second.”

My Thoughts:
Second? Isn't that just the first "loser?" Or is a second a measurement of time? In a world where coming in first matters, where being the first in line for a cool new gadget, where being an early adopter of new technology is the "cool" thing to do, why would I want to be second or make a bold statement such as I AM SECOND?

I AM Second is a collection of stories of people who have came to a place where they found it necessary to put God first and themselves second. Stories of "famous" and "ordinary people who made a decision and how that decision greatly changed their lives. These short stories are quick and easy to read yet challenging. Many made me consider my own actions in various circumstances.
 A great book to share with friends. One of my favourite features of the book is at the end of each chapter there are QR codes that you can scan with your smart phone (or iPod touch) to read more stories similar to the one printed in the book or to check out a video version of a similar story.  Still not sure? Check out one or all of the videos posted on the books site:  http://www.iamsecond.com/seconds/#featured

 Since this book is comprised of short stories, it makes a great read for the beach. This book is definitely worth a second look. The stories will challenge you where you are regardless of your situation.

Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson 

The Names of God Bible Review

The Names of God Bible Review

From the Publisher:

• Open the door to a more intimate relationship with God.
• Discover the Hebrew names of God within the biblical text
• Encounter God through prayers, promises, and devotional readings

Experience God's character more deeply by studying his names

One of the best ways to get to know God on a deeper level is to know his names and titles as revealed in Scripture. Now the bestselling author of Praying the Names of God and Praying the Names of Jesus uncovers the richness of God's character and love found in his names right within the Bible text.

The Names of God Bible restores more than 10,000 occurrences of specific names of God--like Yahweh, El Shadday, El Elyon, and Adonay--to help readers connect with the Hebrew roots of their Christian faith and experience a deeper understanding of God's character. Perfect for personal study, prayer, and reflection, The Names of God Bible includes these special features:

• More than 10,000 names and titles of God restored to their Hebrew equivalent and printed in brown ink to stand out within the biblical text.
• Names of God reading paths lead readers to the next reference of the name so they can pray and study the names of God throughout Scripture.

Name Pages feature

• background information associated with the most important names and titles of God
• key Scripture passages in which the name is revealed
• devotional readings for each of the featured names
• specific Bible promises connected to each of the featured names 

Calling God by Name sidebars shed light on the relationship between biblical people and the specific names they called God.
 
My Thoughts:
This Bible is beautifully laid out. It is simple and easy to use, easy to read. This Bible is the God's Word Translation. It being different from the New Living Translation I normally read, it made the scriptures feel new, different. The introductions to each book, listed the Key Names of God for the chapter. It was nice to see them gathered and explained which made studying the names of God much easier. The featured I loved was the Names of God Reading Path System at the front of the bible. It listed the various names/titles of God and the first reference, as you go to that reference, in the margin, it gives you the verse where that particular name of God appears next. This helps make studying the names of God so much simpler. You should try it out. Check out the Names of God Bible at your nearest bookseller.


"Bible has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

The Love & Respect Experience Review, Book by: Emerson Eggerichs

The Love & Respect Experience

A Husband-Friendly Devotional that Wives Truly Love

Leathersoft

By Emerson Eggerichs

From the Publisher: 

A Devotional Unlike Any Other! Through the millions of products sold on Love & Respect, Emerson Eggerichs has transformed marriages around the world with his biblically based approach to understanding the love that she most desires and the respect that he desperately needs. Now, in this long-awaited release, Emerson has created an experience for couples that is effective, flexible and life-changing.

To build this couples devotional, Eggerichs has taken the top concerns that surfaced in a survey of thousands of couples and has developed 52 devotionals around the three cycles that are at the heart of Love and Respect. On one occasion the couple will be talking about how to stop the Crazy Cycle or keep it at bay. The very next devotional will talk about a concept built upon the Rewarded Cycle, which stresses the ultimate purpose for marriage. And the next may have both people talking about ways to use the Energizing Cycle in their efforts to love and respect each other.

Some may ask, “Why 52 and not 365, like other couples devotionals I have seen?” The author’s research shows that married couples don’t want to deal with that much material, that often.  Therefore, the specific devotionals, which can be done weekly or at any chosen pace, are specifically guided to what couples say they most need.  And this is a husband-friendly devotional, having been written and designed in such a way that the husband can feel comfortable in the entire process.

With this wealth of new material and video devotionals available online to support the product, The Love & Respect Experience will be indispensable to anyone wishing to better their marital relationship.

My Thoughts: 

Just picking this book up, you know it was designed for a man. The gorgeous two-toned leather-soft cover screams "PICK-ME-UP!" and "Read me!" Each of the 52 devotionals are the perfect length -- short! Definitely great for your non-avid, force me to read a book guy or simply for the busy couple. Each chapter begins with a bible verse, a short story, followed by a prayer and action points, the action points includes the page reference to check out the related discussion questions at the end of the book.

Chapter 11 shares an insight, I haven't been able to forget, "Her pink + his blue = God's Purple." You'll have to get the book to hear the whole story. While I may not be married yet. I do seek to be prepared once I am, the above equation is something I'll remember. This book would make a great present to any new couple.

Want to know more about the whole Love & Respect Experience, check out the author's blog: http://emersonandsarah.blogspot.com/ or check out the Love & Respect Website: http://loveandrespect.com/


Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson.

Close Enough to Hear God Breathe Review

Close Enough to Hear God Breathe

By Greg Paul

Publishers Synopsis:

Does the idea of intimacy with God seem farfetched and irrelevant to your real, daily life? Ever wonder if your own “little story” has any significance in the larger scheme of things, or why God’s Word doesn’t seem to speak to you?

In Close Enough to Hear God Breathe, readers encounter a rich message that recounts the story of a God who has been inviting all of humanity, and each individual, into his tender embrace since time began. Beautiful prose, powerful stories, and inventive teaching walk readers though this, the Bible’s foremost narrative thread.

Both subtle and radical, full of common stories told in extraordinary fashion, this book weaves the experiences of the individual into the great tapestry of the biblical saga. The reader learns to hear the voice of God speaking in the ordinary events and relationships of life, as well as in the broad, deep current of Scripture.

Reading the Bible ought to be like putting one’s head on God’s chest.Close Enough to Hear God Breathe will help readers do just that. And when they do, they’ll hear him whisper, “You’re my child, my love, mypleasure.”


My Thoughts:


A good book. Wow, I had not noticed the cover art on this book as a father embracing his child until the writing of this review. I suppose the cover art caught my eye more after having read the book and having heard of the personal and imtimate stories the author shares as he weaved them through with bible truths.

I love Greg Paul's story telling ability. His writing is beautiful and draws the reader into the personal stories he shares. I found some of his personally stories, quite personal, and when I considered how I could apply/see it in my life, it often made me stop in my tracks and think about what is truely important.


Check out his ministry based in downtown Toronto, Ontario : http://www.sanctuarytoronto.ca/



Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson.

Rumors of God Review

Rumors of God Book Review
Book By: Darren Whitehead & Jon Tyson
Watch the book trailer here: http://vimeo.com/26631383

Experience the Kind of Faith You've Only Heard About!

Publisher's Synopsis:

Rumors of God is a call to Christians seeking a vision of the life God is calling them to, one that transcends the shallowness of our culture.


In his classic work, Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis likens an encounter with God to coming to life: “This world is a great sculptor’s shop and we are the statues. But there is a rumor going round the shop that some of us are some day going to come to life.”

However, today many Christians live with tension. What the Scriptures promise seems like a far cry from what we experience in our lives. As a result, God seems distant, and the life described in the Scriptures seems more like a series of rumors than reality.

Does God still do great things today? Is it possible to really experience Him? Can we close the gap between what we hear and what we see?


Rumors of God is a rally cry for the church. Authors Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson share compelling stories about the work and activity of God today. Packed with fresh cultural observations and illuminating Scriptural insights, Rumors of God will ignite a passion in your heart to see your faith come to life.


My Thoughts: 
The title and the tag will grab your attention. If you are looking that is.
Each chapter contained something that I personally found challenging that made me stop and pause.
We are  bombarded with media, with rumors, with so many things that attempt to grab and hold our attention. Anything to get our focus off of God.  This book is filled with stories of regular people like you and me who have stepped out in their faith and allowed the love of God to do some miraculous things.

In this book you have an opportunity to consider the following Rumors: Abundant Life, Another Dream, Generosity, Love, Grace, Freedom, Commitment, Community, Justice and Hope.

If you are open and looking/listening one of these Rumors are certain to challenge and encourage you.
All the best on your journey to "experience the kind of faith you've only heard about."

Disclaimer: Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson.

Heaven is for Real Review

Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back by Todd Burpo and Lynn Vincent

Publisher's Synopsis:
A young boy emerges from life-saving surgery with remarkable stories of his visit to heaven.

Heaven Is for Real is the true story of the four-year old son of a small town Nebraska pastor who during emergency surgery slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He survives and begins talking about being able to look down and see the doctor operating and his dad praying in the waiting room. The family didn't know what to believe but soon the evidence was clear.

Colton said he met his miscarried sister, whom no one had told him about, and his great grandfather who died 30 years before Colton was born, then shared impossible-to-know details about each. He describes the horse that only Jesus could ride, about how "reaaally big" God and his chair are, and how the Holy Spirit "shoots down power" from heaven to help us.

Told by the father, but often in Colton's own words, the disarmingly simple message is heaven is areal place, Jesus really loves children, and be ready, there is a coming last battle.

My Thoughts:
I will admit, I am a picky reader. When given the chance to read this book, I was intrigued. After all it had spend many weeks on the New York Times Best Seller list at #1, placed in many other Top 10 Lists across the country and it was a Christian book.  Having not read many books about Heaven, I wasn't expecting anything in particular. What I found was an easy to read book that gives insights into this child's life experiences. A quick and enjoyable read, definitely one I would share with a friend. The story of when Colton meets his miscarried sister are ones that make you believe you will see your loved ones in Heaven.

Interested in reading an excerpt, check out: http://heavenisforreal.net/.
I received this book courtesy of the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Jolt! Review

Jolt! Get the Jump on a World That's Constantly Changing

Book Description

Author: Phil Cooke

Published by Thomas Nelson

In a world of constant change, there are 25 “jolts” that offer confidence and an advantage in business and life.

The world never stops changing. New technologies, new administrations, new rules in business and the economy. Stability, once a mainstay of American life, is now a pipe dream. For most, this causes major anxiety, worry, and confusion. In JOLT!, Phil Cooke, social media guru and cultural commentator, shows anyone weighed down by the constancy of change how it can be used to his advantage. In this accessible and relevant guidebook meant to anchor and empower every reader, Cooke unveils 25 “jolts” anyone can leverage to establish a professional direction, maximize potential, safeguard the heart and mind, reinforce values, and create an amazing future. He shows that the ability to master the fundamentals of change will be a game changer in readers' lives, opening up new possibilities, confidence, and impact.

My Thoughts:

Ready for a change? Need a push? A shove? In this book, Phil Cooke explores 25 "jolts" you can use to help push you where you want to be. This book hidden amongst the Business/Organization Behaviour section of your favoured bookstore. Rather than reading this book straight thru, I jumped chapters and began reading the ones that I was most drawn towards. Some of his stories are recycled. But sometimes those are the best kind. Sometimes the recycled story is exactly what you need when you read it. I found this book helped motivate me to change in areas I wasn't exactly expecting. Finished reading the book? Looking for more inspiration? More of a Jolt? Check out the author's online blog at www.philcooke.com

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Final Summit Book by Andy Andrews Review

The Final Summit

A Quest to Find the One Principle That Will Save Humanity

By Andy Andrews

 

Book Description from the Publisher:

David Ponder is back. This time the fate of mankind is in his hands.

This is mankind’s last chance. Centuries of greed, pride, and hate have sent humanity hurtling toward disaster, and far from its original purpose. There is only one solution that can reset the compass and right the ship, and it consists of only two words.

With time running out, it is up to David Ponder and a cast of history’s best and brightest minds to uncover this solution before it is too late. The catch? They are allowed only five tries to discover the answer.

Readers first encountered David Ponder in The Traveler's Gift. Now, in The Final Summit, Andrews combines a riveting narrative with astounding history in order to show us the one thing we must do when we don’t know what to do.

My Thoughts:

This is the sequel to Andy Andrew’s book “The Traveller’s Gift”. I had not read any of his previous books, nor am I much of a history buff. Much less an American history buff. The way Andy weaves the story into history and emphasizes the historical significance into his characters in this story, it kept me engaged and entertained. Definitely a decent read. For me, I had this book a long time before completing it. I found it was just my not my preferred genre. But what I did find, unexpected-ly were the many lessons from each different character that was intertwined throughout the book. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in fiction with historical characters.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

This is Your Brain in Love Review. Book by Earl Henslin

This is Your Brain in Love Review.
Book by Earl Henslin

From the Publisher:
Learn the secrets of proactive passion.


Using the latest in brain research, This Is Your Brain in Love helps couples become Master Level Lovers by encouraging each mate to bring their healthiest, most balanced and joyful self to their marriage.

Dr. Henslin speaks to the vital connection between spirituality and sexuality. He identifies the five types of lovers, with ground-breaking insights and effective solutions for the challenges presented by each:

* Scattered Lover
* Over-focused Lover
* Blue Mood Lover
* Agitated Lover
* Anxious Lover

Filled with relatable stories and humor, this is not your boring brain book! Engaging and practical, Dr. Henslin provides an amazingly accurate, scientifically-based brain test to help spot typical brain imbalances. (And yes, most everyone has at least one!)

Bonus material offers brain-researched strategies and new hope for women dealing with hormones and men struggling with sexual addictions.


My Thoughts:

This book was an easy read, not blogged down with too much brain science research. Dr. Henslin weaved humour and examples while sharing some of his findings from his research. With tables and bullets and mini-quizzes it is easy to find things throughout this book. I appreciated the 10 tips for each type of lover - tips for yourself or tips to help your loved one. He provided quizzes to help you identify which kind of lover you are - Scattered, Over-focused, Blue Mood, Agitated, or Anxious. While reading this book I was reminded of the importance to take care of my physical, emotional and spiritual self. I will hang onto this book and read again when my relationship needs some help.

The wonderful folks at Thomas Nelson provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through
Booksneeze.

A Review of Fatal Judgment: Guardians of Justice (Book 1) by Irene Hannon

A Review of: Fatal Judgment: Guardians of Justice Book 1 by Irene Hannon

Publisher's Synopsis:

U.S. Marshal Jake Taylor has seen plenty of action during his years in law enforcement. But he'd rather go back to Iraq than face his next assignment: protection detail for federal judge Liz Michaels. His feelings toward the coldhearted workaholic haven't warmed in the five years since she drove her husband--and Jake's best friend--to despair . . . and possible suicide.

As the danger mounts and Jake gets to know Liz better, he's forced to revise his opinion of her. And when it becomes clear that an unknown enemy may want her dead, the stakes are raised. Because now both her life--and his heart--are in danger.

Full of suspense and romance, Fatal Judgment is a thrilling story that will keep you turning the pages late into the night.

My Thoughts: 

A wonderful blend of mystery and romance. This new series, Guardians of Justice, is sure to draw you in and hold your attention. The story is embedded with twists and turns, faith and romance, murder and danger, suspense and maybe even second chances. You will have to pick up a copy of this book to find out for yourself. Just plan sometime where you can read it without the interruptions of having to put it down. Looking forward to the next installment of the Guardians of Justice series.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

The Least Among You (DVD) Review

The Least Among You (DVD)

From: Lionsgate
 
Leaders are not chosen, they are called. Inspired by a true story.


Arrested in the 1965 Watts riots, Richard Kelly (Cedric Sanders) must serve probation at an all-white seminary. Although encouraged to break racial boundaries by its president Alan Beckett (William Devane), the school wants black followers not leaders. Even former missionary, Kate Allison (Lauren Holly), initially rejects Richard. A prison sentence looming, Richard meets Samuel Benton (Louis Gossett, Jr.) -- “the gardener in the basement.” As Samuel guides Richard through his many trials, Richard must choose between his dreams and his destiny.
 
My Thoughts:
Interesting that the professor was a female in 1965 in an all male Christian Seminary.  "Whatever it is, God's got his hand on it."

Whenever I watch a movie set in the past, I'm always surprised how far we appear to have come in some areas, but yet how far we still have to go.

I enjoyed this movie of a young man trying to raise above circumstance, dealing with family and personal issues while trying to successfully get through his post-secondary experience in the 1960's. This story is an example of persistence through times of fear was inspiring. I enjoyed this well filmed movie inspired by a true story. I have watched this movie a number of times since receiving and it still doesn't feel too predictable.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this DVD free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com <http://booksneeze.com/> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half with America's Cheapest Family Review

Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half with America's Cheapest Family
Includes So Many Innovative Strategies You Won't Have to Cut Coupons


By Steve and Annette Economides
Check out the Economides' website: http://www.americascheapestfamily.com/


Book Description
America’s Cheapest Family shows readers how to save up to $3,000 annually on groceries with their proven strategies, tips, tools, and tricks.

The average American family spends 10 to 15 percent of its take-home pay on groceries. Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half gives them a sure-fire opportunity to reduce that number forever. With the proven plan in this book, the average family can save more than $3,000 a year on its grocery bill.

“Can cutting coupons do that?” a consumer might ask. Of course, these money-saving experts teach coupon-clipping strategies, but they don't stop there. Readers learn how to plan shopping to save big bucks, effectively store food and save cash, identify products that save time and money, beat the grocer at pricing games, and more!

The Economides learned to deliver healthy, tasty food to their family of seven on $350 a month. In this authoritative manual, the average family can follow their lead and fill its grocery cart without emptying its wallet.

My Thoughts:
I'm one of those people, who if I can get it cheap or free, I put the extra effort in. So I was excited to read this book, looking for some other tips how to cut some of the bills. Since I do shop in the US often for groceries, I found the much of the advice useful. And some of the tips, I was already doing. There are some great ideas for a family to save some money. Great advice for someone just starting to reduce the bills for groceries. Some ideas where common sense. But if you apply just a few ideas, you will save money. I did enjoy this book and will share it with some of my budget conscious friends. My personal favourite site to find a deal in Canada is http://www.smartcanucks.ca/

The wonderful folks at Thomas Nelson provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Booksneeze. My opinions were my own.

The Grace of God by Andy Stanley Book Review

From the Publisher:
“Grace. It’s what we crave most when our guilt is exposed. It’s the very thing we are hesitant to extend when we are confronted with the guilt of others—especially when their guilt has robbed us of something we consider valuable.
Therein is the struggle, the struggle for grace. It’s this struggle that makes grace more story than doctrine. It’s the struggle that reminds us that grace is bigger than compassion or forgiveness. That struggle is the context for both. When we are on the receiving end, grace is refreshing. When it is required of us, it is often disturbing. But when correctly applied, it seems to solve just about everything. This struggle is not new; it has been going on since the beginning.”
—Andy Stanley


We find in the pages of Scripture that the stories found there often mirror our own stories, and that we too need the very thing we do not deserve: the grace of God.
From the beginning, the church has had an uneasy relationship with grace. The gravitational pull is always toward graceless religion. The odd thing is that when you read the New Testament, the only thing Jesus stood against consistently was graceless religion. The only group he attacked relentlessly was graceless religious leaders.
Even now as you think about grace, there might be a little voice in your head whispering, “It can’t be that easy!”
“What about obedience?”
“What about disobedience?”
“What about repeated misbehavior?”
“What about bad habits?”
“What about justice?”
“What about repentance?”

It’s this tension that makes grace so slippery. But that’s the beauty and the truth of grace. We don’t deserve it. We can’t earn it. It can’t be qualified. But God gives it to us anyway because he loves us unconditionally.

The story of grace is your story. And as you are about to discover grace plays a larger role than you imagine.

My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book. It is one of those books I plan to keep on my bookshelf and re-read my times. I appreciated the use of Bold throughout the book to highlight a few of the key points. It was a challenging read as we often need to be reminded that it is because of God's Grace and not our own efforts. With many references to the Bible, it gives you an opportunity to further into the characters discussed in each chapters.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn more about God's Grace.

"Grace is the vehicle God uses on occasion to ensure that we get precisely what we don't deserve."

"Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available October 2010 at your favourite bookseller. 

Have a New You by Friday Review

Have a New You by Friday: How to Accept Yourself, Boost Your Confidence & Change Your Life in 5 Days

By: Dr. Kevin Leman

Publishers Synopsis: 

You can change your life--in just 5 days!
How many times have you tried to change your own habits, only to find that changing yourself is even harder than trying to change someone else?
Now, what the bestselling Have a New Kid by Friday has done for families and Have a New Husband by Friday has done for couples, Have a New You by Friday will do for you. With his signature wit and commonsense psychology, Dr. Kevin Leman walks you through your own personal five-day action plan. You will come to

• Accept the truth about yourself
• Boost your confidence by identifying the lies you're telling yourself . . . and putting them to rest for good
• Change your life by concentrating on becoming who you really want to be

My Thoughts:
Feeling a bit down? Feeling a bit stuck? Feeling like you need to change? Check out Kevin Leman's newest book. While most of the book had sentiments similar to "you can do it, make the most of what you have, work in your strengths" type thoughts. I did find it an easy to read, well laid out book. Each day (chapter) has a summary of what you should "do" or apply as well as a following section on going deeper into the specified content ("for the curious").

So it was an enjoyable read, "give yourself a break and lighten up", pick up Have a New You by Friday today.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

City on Our Knees Review

City on Our Knees

By: TobyMac

Publishers Synopsis:

When we step across the line we can sail across the sea

Amazing, beautiful things happen when people have the courage to live, work, and pray in the spirit of unity and peace. Often, though, to make these amazing things happen, we have to step out of our comfort zone and into a world we find uncomfortable or intimidating. Sometimes that world is physical; other times it can be emotional, relational, or spiritual.

City on Our Knees shows this, encouraging you to take the first step. It offers stories of people who have stepped across lines. Lines of discrimination, persecution, doubt, prejudice, pride, bitterness, self-isolation, and despair. I pray and hope that you will be inspired to see how just one person, or one small group, can be a mechanism for change. 

God can use us right here. Right now. All we need is faith that He has our best in mind. And believe me—He does.

—TobyMac



My Thoughts:

At first glance, this book would be a perfect for Christmas present for your favourite high school student in your life. Picking up the book, flipping through the pages you see it is filled with short stories of past and present people who have stood up and made a difference, photos, and inspirational quotes.

Based on his song "City on our Knees", Toby Mac's book draws you in and challenges you to take a step out of your comfort zone and allow God to use you where you are at.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Permission to Speak Freely Review

Permission to Speak Freely: Essays and Art on Fear, Confession, and Grace
By Anne Jackson

Publishers Synopsis:
In May 2008, Anne Jackson asked a question on her blog, “What is one thing you feel you can’t say in church?”


Hundreds responded. Everyone had a story.

Permission to Speak Freely is the unique new project and movement of author Anne Jackson, who is finished with keeping brokenness in the dark. Bringing to light the original intent of God’s sanctuary as a place of help and healing, Anne reveals that through confession, both to God and to others, we can live lives that are whole and healed.

Told with disarming transparency, Anne shares what led to her own addictions and the ensuing lifestyle that left her wounded and withdrawn, but ultimately rescued and redeemed. She includes dramatic stories of others who also learned to abandon their fear, pride, and masks; to identify their hurts; and to find the courage to speak freely.

Their confessions, submitted as mixed media pieces, photography, and sketches, were collected from people across the world, and are included throughout the book. Readers will share in the opportunity to find their own path to redemption and freedom.
 
My Thoughts:
First picking up this book, I instantly flipped thru it and was drawn to read the confessions/art work post cards sent in by readers of her blog. I quickly found a couple that I identified with. I knew this was a book I ought to read. After flipping thru the book I was instantly reminded of Frank Warren's "Post Secret" Project which I loved. I enjoyed Anne Jackson's book as sort of a Christian Answer to "Post Secret."  The church talks about being "real" but some of the topics of the postcards or parts of Anne's story were ones I'd never heard of in the church much less much outside of the church. The author's raw honesty drew me into her story.

Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas-Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications Inc. Available now at your favourite bookseller.