A Great Amish book for Christmas for 30% off

Anyone still shopping for the perfect gift for a book lover?  Consider purchasing the Amish book, The Christmas Singing by Cindy Woodsmall.  Below you can check out the first chapter and watch a video about this book.  To top it all off, Waterbrook is offering 30% off and free shipping on The Christmas Singing (and any other title) when you use promo code CHRISTMAS11 at checkout on WaterBrookMultnomah.com. The coupon code expires on December 20th, 2011, so take advantage of this great offer while you can on some great Christmas gifts!

You can read the first chapter below.

The Christmas Singing (Chapter 1 Excerpt)

A Lasting Impression by Tamera Alexander

I'm so excited to tell you about this great book I just finished.  This book is another historical fiction book...I just love this kind of book.  You can read a great story and learn some interesting historical facts a long the way too.  The book is set in 1866 and follows a young girl named Claire who is an aspiring painter.  She begins her journey in New Orleans and then travels up to Nashville, Tennessee.  As she seeks to distance herself from her family's past misconduct and make a new start, she encounters a life changing decision she must make....coming clean about her past life or trying to hide it.
I really enjoyed this book!  Tamera Alexander did a great job pulling me into her story line and keeping me interested throughout the entire book.  The book talks a lot about the art world and I found that very interesting.  Majority of the book is centered around a huge mansion called the Belmont Mansion in Nashville, Tennessee.  Tamera Alexander describes the scenes well and makes you feel as though you are right there.  The characters learn so much through their journey, and many of their life lessons are difficult ones that they must overcome.   I would highly recommend this book! 
**I received this book free from Library Thing's Early Reviewers Program in exchange for an honest review.

As Silver Refined by Kay Arthur

I thought this book looked really great from the description and I wasn't disappointed.  Kay Arthur's As Silver Refined: Answers to Life's Disappointments is a well written book.  There are 15 chapters and  a 13 week bible study included in the back of the book that can be done on your own or with a group.

I have had many disappointments in my life and I'm sure you have too.   Life can be full of them!  It is all in how we handle those disappointments that determines whether we will experience joy or failure.  Kay Arthur discusses the 5 Deadly D's: disappointment, discouragement, dejection, despair, and demoralization.  She writes, "Together they form a downward spiral of deepening defeat and disorder.  They're part of a devastating plunge that's triggered when we respond wrongly to the disappointments that God in His loving sovereignty allows in our lives." (pg. 13)
Kay also writes, "The downward spiral begins...with disappointment.  Disappointment comes when our expectations aren't met.  Consequently we're not happy about it--we're disturbed.  When this happens and we don't conquer that disappointment in God's way, then we spin downward into discouragement.  We're without courage.  We want to give up...  And what follows discouragement?  Depression in its various degrees.  The first 'degree' of depression is dejection--a lowness of spirit, a feeling of spiritual and emotional fatigue.  If not reversed this dejection takes us down even further, plunging us into despair and finally into utter demoralization.  At this stage of descent, hope is entirely abandoned and is replaced by apathy and numbness.  Fear becomes overwhelming and paralyzing and can degenerate further into disorder and reckless action that is heedless of consequences." (pg. 13)  This paragraph really touched me...maybe because I have lived it.  I wrongly responding to a life situation that God allowed (my brother's death) and I experienced that spiraling downward to depression.  She describes it well..."hope is abandoned...Fear becomes overwhelming and paralyzing..."
This book points you to the only source of victory over this overwhelming defeat....the Bible, Christ Jesus.  If you have been struggling like me through situations where you've had the wrong response, this is a great book for you.

You can read the first chapter below.

As Silver Refined by Kay Arthur (Chapter 1 Excerpt)

***I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group in exchange for this honest review.

Valley of Dreams by Lauraine Snelling

How much do you know about the era of the Wild West?  I am a northern, midwest girl and cowboys are not really my thing.  So, it was interesting for me to read this historical fiction book by Lauraine Snelling called Valley of Dreams.  This book is the first in her series called Wild West Wind.  Lauraine Snelling was a new author to me.  She has also written over 60 other books for young adults and adults.  You can find out about her and her books on her website.

The Lockwood family--Cassie, her dad and her mother--were owners of a Wild West Show that traveled to many different cities.  Cassie has real talent when it comes to riding her horse and performing all kinds of tricks before large crowds.  Everything she knew she had learned from her father.  Unfortunately, both of Cassie's parents have passed away leaving her with only the road show as her "family."  Cassie's "Uncle" Jason has taken over running the show since her father died, but has driven the show into debt.  When "Uncle" Jason makes a shocking announcement that the show is closing, Cassie's world turns upside down.  Cassie decides to find a place called the Black Hills of South Dakota since her father always talked about settling down there after he was done with the show.  This book takes you through the journey of Cassie trying to find this piece of land her father always talked about which in turn unlocks a few mysteries of her parent's past.

I thought that the book was slow at the beginning and the time spent traveling to Black Hills the seemed to drag a little.  But it did keep my interest in that I wanted to know how the story would end.  There was a good amount of twists and turns in the plot to keep me guessing.  The book definitely leaves the ending wide open for the next book to continue.  It was hard reaching the end and not being able to pick up the next book in the series to see what happens next.  I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series when it comes out.  I would recommend this book.

***I received this free book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Lonestar Angel by Colleen Coble

Lonestar Angel is a story about a young married couple who face the tragic kidnapping of their 6 week old baby girl, Brianna.  The child was never found and presumed dead.  The couple, Eden and Clay, never really recovered from the incident and it drove them apart.   Eden filed for divorce and moved on with her life.  Five years later, Clay unexpectedly comes back into her life and gives her some startling news...the're still married!  He never signed the divorce papers, and he also has evidence that their sweet little girl may still be alive.

Since I read my first Colleen Coble novel back in May,  I was eager to start this recent book I received in the mail.  I'm not really a cowboy kind of girl, but I knew the author had a great track record for writing a good story.  This book only took me a few days to read....I simply could not put it down.  I thought the story had a great plot and kept my attention throughout the entire book.  I liked how she developed the characters as they struggled through life issues.  I also really enjoyed the mystery part of the story.  It's always fun to wonder who did it and try to figure out who the real culprit is.  I would highly recommend this book for some very fun reading!

**I received this free book from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.

November's Free E-books

November's free E-books are up on the Tyndale Blog.  You can CLICK HERE to find the links to download them for free to your e-readers.

Thank you, God, for blessing me by Max Lucado

Little Hermie is a cute little caterpillar that looks around him and sees all the wonderful things that God has given to him.  Little Hermie prays and thanks God for the many blessings he experiences every day.  After Little Hermie thanks God, then he asks God to help him to be kind and obey.

This cute, little children's book is great for reading to toddlers.  Max Lucado does a great job in helping children to see that we can thank God for all the little things we have in life. From the food we eat, to the bed we sleep in, God has provided it all for us.  I thought Frank Endersby did a great job on the illustrations.  They were very appealing for small children, and the colors are bright and attractive.  This book would make a great shower gift for an expectant mom or for a toddler's birthday.  I would definitely recommend this book.

**I received this free book from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

Night Night Blessings by Amy Parker, Illustrated by Marijan Ramljak

This children's book written by Amy Parker is just adorable!  The book walks children through some of the many blessings they have from God in their life.  "Thank You for yummy food to eat.  It helps me grow big and strong.  Syrupy pancakes stacked up high Get me zipping right along!"   This is just one of the many cute blessings Amy mentions in the book.  The reading level for this book is baby-preschool. 

I thought that this book was great!  Amy Parker does a great job putting this book together.  The wording was great and down on the level a little child could identify with.  I love the idea of encouraging little kids to thank God for the every day little things in life.  Gratitude is such an important part of life!  Marijan Ramljak's illustrations were beautiful and looked like a painting rather than graphics on a page.  I would definitely recommend this book for your child's library or to give as a gift to a new mom.

**I received this book free from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.

Healing Hearts (Three Amish Novellas) by Beth Wiseman

Beth Wiseman's books are now together in one collection called Healing Hearts.  The three stories within this collection are:

A Choice to Forgive--Lydia was in love with one man, Daniel and was promised to marry him when life took an unexpected turn.  Daniel disappeared on Christmas Eve leaving Lydia to wonder what happened.  Lydia then marries Daniel's brother, Elam, and has 15 wonderful years with him when a tragedy takes his young life.  After the death of Elam, Daniel returns hoping for reconciliation from the community but especially from Lydia.

A Change of Heart--Leah is consumed by her stories that she writes at night while everyone else in the house is sleeping.  Her community frowns on such activity seeing it as childish and unproductive.  Leah's parents wonder if she'll ever learn how to be a good Amish fraa (wife) since she can't cook, sew, garden or clean the house.  One young man, Adam is taken with her, but will he overlook her lacking qualities?

Healing Hearts--Levina's husband, Naaman,  told her he was going to visit his cousin in Ohio.  He was gone for a whole year. Now that he's back Levina isn't sure if she can trust this man that she married many years ago.  What would make him leave for so long?

Beth did a good job telling each of the three stories.  I found myself wanting the story to go on a little longer.  They seemed to end too soon.  With it being a collection, I wanted the stories to intertwine somehow, but they are 3 separate stories.  These three stories were previously published as An Amish Love, An Amish Gathering, and An Amish Christmas.  Each story was an easy read and did not take me long to finish this whole collection.  Reading the books has helped me to learn a little more about the Amish.  There is a lot that I really didn't know about them.  I would recommend this collection.

**I received this book free from BookSneeze in exchange for an honest review.

September Free E-books from Tyndale House

You can click here to find out where to download these 2 books free from Tyndale House Publishers.

Mercy Come Morning by Lisa Tawn Bergren

 Growing up with a tragic family history has greatly influenced Krista Mueller.  Krista's relationship with her mother has been plagued with misunderstandings and a lack of loving communication.  With Alzheimer's disease affecting her mother's mind, Krista flees to another state to escape the emotional turmoil she feels inside and leaves her mother's care to others.  When Krista receives a call from Dane (a past love) that her mother is in her last days, she reluctantly comes back.  Krista will have to deal with everything she has been running from these past years including Dane, the man she keeps pushing away. 

Alzheimer's disease is not something that I'm really familiar with.  It has touched my husband's family though.  His grandmother suffered from this horrible disease.  It was interesting to learn a little bit about how this disease affects the patient as well as the family members taking care of them.  I really enjoyed this book.  I was able to read it in a day and thought that the book was well written.  I would recommend this book.

**I received this book free from Library Thing Early Reviewers program in exchange for an honest review.

God Gave Us You by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Do you have a little one who is wondering where they came from and how they got here?  That question eventually comes up!  This cute little board book by Lisa Tawn Bergren is a sweet little book reminding little ones that they are a gift from God.  Every page reminds the little reader that "God gave us you."

I think this book is a cute gift for new moms or moms with toddlers that have many questions usually beginning with "Why?"  This book has a gentle way of talking about the issue of how children are born and points them to the giver of life, God.  I appreciate how the book makes the child feel special since they are a special gift.

Here is a sweet, little excerpt from the book: "Little Cub closed her eyes, said her prayers, and heard Mama whisper, 'Good night.'  She felt happy and safe because God had given her-little her to Mama and Papa, and they wouldn't trade her for the world.  'Because God gave us you,' Mama had said. 'Because God gave us you.'"

I know how special my little girl is and we are so thankful that God gave her to us!
Below is a cute coloring page that goes along with the book.  Enjoy!
God Gave us You - Coloring Page

**I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Spiritual Warfare for Women by Leighann McCoy

Spiritual Warfare has been around since the fall of man in the Garden of Eden.  A battle we fight daily.  How much do you know about winning the war against the enemy, Satan?  Are you equipped for the battle that is raging around you?  Leighann McCoy's book is separated into four different parts to help you in your daily battle:

1. The Most Powerful Weapon of All--the Love of God  (chapters 1-3)
2. The Enemy Exposed (chapters 4-6)
3. The Targets in Our Lives (chapters 7-11)
4. Victory Is Mine (chapters 12-14)

Each chapter ends with questions and overview ideas,  a prayer, key Scriptures and an idea of how to commit Scripture to memory.

Reading through this book was a great reminder of how Satan is a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour as stated in I Peter 5:8.  I found myself contemplating a lot of what was said in this book.  I think that Leighann McCoy did a great job in being true to Scripture and informative as to how believers can be victorious through Christ.  In chapter 4--Spiritual Warfare is Real, the author writes,

"Satan's purpose and passion is to profane the name of the Lord.  He has at the core of his being the desire to destroy God's reputation and shed doubt on His motives.  Just as he did in the beginning, Satan works his way into the hearts and minds of God's children.  For when he can steal the testimony of a disciple, when he can kill the joy in her heart, and when he destroys her spirit, Satan profanes the name of the Lord.
Because you are a child of the King, you are a target for attack.  Every day you make decisions that will either proclaim the name of the Lord or profane the name of the Lord.  There's no middle ground on this battlefield.  You are either with God or you're against Him." (page 80)

I enjoyed this book and would recommend it especially for Christians who are young in their faith and are just learning what it means to stand firm against the Enemy in their daily lives.

You can read the introduction and first chapter of the book below.
Spiritual Warfare for Women

**I received this free book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

A Historical Fiction Novel: The Daughter's Walk by Jane Kirkpatrick

What is the farthest distance you have ever walked?  On my recent trip to Mackinaw Island, I road my bike for 13 miles and that seemed long and tiring.  This story The Daughter's Walk is about two women who walked from Spokane, Washington to New York City.  That's 3500 miles!  Google says that it would take 2 days and 4 hours by car today.  Unbelievable!!!  Much of what is written in the book is true to their story.  Of course, parts are speculated to fill in the part of the story that history hasn't told us.  This whole escapade began when Helga and Ole's farm was in trouble and facing financial ruin in foreclosure.  To save the farm, Helga accepted a proposal by some sponsors to walk from Spokane Washington to New York City within seven months wearing the new reformed dresses.  If she completed her task, they would pay her $10,000.00.  That was quite a bit of money back then and seemed like the answers to her problems.  Helga informed her oldest daughter, Clara, that she would also be making the trek. The story is told from Clara's perspective.  She wasn't thrilled to be brought in to this crazy adventure her mother had gotten herself into.  Their epic journey cost them time away from their family which caused a rift in the family that would not be healed for a very long time.
In the end, this walk was a defining moment of their lives and changed them both forever.  Take a few minutes and watch the trailer for the book!


I really enjoyed reading this book about these women's lives.  I had never heard of these women and their amazing feat.  I can't even imagine what strength and courage it must of taken to complete such a huge task.  The author did a great job re-telling the story and making it come alive.  The book also includes a Reader's Guide at the end.  These questions would be great for book clubs going through this book. I would highly recommend reading this book and learning more about an untold story in American history.

You can read more about the author, Jane Kirkpatrick, here at her website.



**I received this free book from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

Growing Up Amish by Ira Wagler

Growing Up Amish  is a true story written by Ira Wagler, a man from within the Amish community.  It recounts his life while growing up in the strict Amish way of life.  Ira struggled with fitting in wondering what life was like outside his little community.  But he feared leaving the community because once he left, he would never be able to have eternal life....or so he was taught.  Peace with God could only come from living within the Amish community.

Vacationing up in northern Michigan, I had seen the horse-drawn, black buggies on the side of the road.  The Amish way of life was always mysterious and different.  I really didn't know too much about them.  This book was enjoyable to read and learn more about their culture and way of life.  It made me grateful for the way I was brought up (Christian--Baptist) and the freedom I have in Christ.  The Amish seem to have a good deal of tradition that guides their thinking and actions, and I found that much of their faith seems to be based on good works.  If you are looking to get a glimpse into the life of the Amish, this is a great book to read.  It really shows you what every day life is like for them.
You can learn more about the Amish here at this website: Amish America

**I checked this book out from my local library to read for the Tyndale Summer Reading Program.

Francine Rivers' Her Daughter's Dream

 

This book is the sequel to Francine River's book Her Mother's Hope.  You can read the review I wrote on the first book here.  The author continues to develop the relationship between grandmother, mother and child.  The story has it's twists and turns, yet each character seems to be dealing with very similar issues of insecurity and guilt over past failures.  The women choose to build walls that close them off from those they love, and they hide instead of confronting the issues.

I was excited to finally get this sequel from my local library, but as I began reading it, I was a little disappointed with the story.  I would rather not read about the rape of a child especially since I myself have a little girl.  I don't like that kind of imagery floating around in my head.  While I continued to read because I really wanted to find out the end to the story, I thought that most of this book was rather depressing.  The story is definitely real to life, but I guess I read so that I can escape from some of that reality.  So unfortunately, I didn't not like this book and would not recommend it to others.

** I checked this book out from my local library to read for the Tyndale Summer Reading Program.

Plugged-In Parenting by Bob Waliszewski

Have you ever had conflicts with your children over what they should watch or listen to?  Have you wondered how to approach the subject of entertainment without driving your children down a road of rebellion?  Focus on the Family has this great website called Plugged In Online.   They review movies, TV programs, videos, video games and music on their site so that parents can review entertainment and know what is appropriate and what is not.  I know that my husband and I have used this site several times before going to see a movie.  It has been a great help!  The director of that website, Bob Waliszewski, is the author of this newest book Plugged-In Parenting.  This book addresses three different areas: Part 1--Deciding Where You Stand as a Parent, Part 2--Making Rules Without Making Enemies, Part 3--Keeping the Peace and Passing it on.  He gives many examples of how corrupt entertainment has affected young people in a negative way, and gives steps you can take to make sure that your family's entertainment is honoring to God.

The author does a great job relating the importance of this subject and how it can affect children of all ages.  I like how he gives ideas of how to approach the subject without making enemies.  If we just enforce the rules without any explanation, we just feed the spirit of rebellion.  It's easy to lay down the law, but much more time consuming to instruct and teach their heart through the Word.  This book was challenging to me and made me think about what I allow in my house for viewing.  I need to have a plan in place now so in the future when we are past watching Curious George and Word World I can make a wise choice in what my little girl should watch.  I would definitely recommend this book.

**I received this free book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

Her Mother's Hope by Francine Rivers

Have you ever researched your family history and found an amazing story?  Francine Rivers has included some of her own family history into the writing of this fictional novel.  The first part of the book follows the story of a young girl named Marta who grows up in a rough situation, yet pursues her dream even through heartbreak.  The story begins in Steffisburg, Switzerland, 1901.  Her life takes many twists and turns and she travels from place to place learning all she can so that she can fulfill her longtime dream of owning her own hotel.  When she unexpectedly finds love, she has to give up her dream for her husband and children.  One of her daughters, Hildemara Rose, is vulnerable both physically and emotionally.  Marta not wanting her daughter to completely be dependent upon her (because of past situations in her own family) pushes Hildemara more than the other children.  The second part of the book follows Marta's daughter, Hildemara Rose and her struggle with her mother.  Will Hildemara and Marta ever work things out between them?  This is the first book in a two part series.  The second book is called Her Daughter's Dream.

I really enjoyed this book.  It is a lengthy one at 483 pages, but did not take me long to read at all.  I simply couldn't put the book down.  I love history and I love a good story. The author did a wonderful job weaving the story and all the historical events together.  I would highly recommend this book!  I'm looking forward to reading the second book.

**I checked this out from my local library to read for the tyndale summer reading program.

Blogging for Books is Giving Free Books to Readers

Blogging for books is now setting aside free copies of various titles to be given to blog readers each month. Anyone who reads and ranks my review will automatically be entered to win a free copy of the book that I reviewed.  Blogging for Books will notify you by email if you are chosen as a winner.  You can find a list of reviews to rank under the Rank My Reviews tab at the top of the page.

Prayer Walk by Janet Holm McHenry

PrayerWalk by Janet Holm McHenry (Chapter 1 excerpt)

Have you ever made the commitment to exercise and then failed to follow through especially when life became hectic?  Have you ever wanted to have a great prayer life, but find other things getting in the way of having that alone time with God? This book that I have just finished reading called PrayerWalk actually puts those two things together.  Now, who wouldn't want to add exercise and prayer to their life!!  I really enjoyed Janet's book on the subject because I struggle with both of these areas.  I'm a mom to a three year old with a house full of projects and chores, and I frequently neglect exercise and taking the time to pray.  PrayerWalk is an encouraging book because it shows you that it can be done.  It also made me realize that if I don't plan the time to do these things, they will never happen.  She talks about all the health and spiritual benefits that prayerwalking did for her.  She used to suffer from depression....something that has plagued me for many years since the death of my brother and my 3 miscarriages.  Janet says in chapter 2 that after 3 months of prayerwalking her depression was gone and it hasn't come back.  Included in this book is a study guide and a 30 day PrayerWalk challenge.  You can read more about Janet Holm McHenry at her website and her blog.  You can also read the first chapter of the book at the top of this blog post.
I'm looking forward to putting this plan into action and accomplishing two very important things in my life at the same time.  If you are stuggling with these two areas, you should consider reading this book. I highly recommend it!

**This book was provided by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.

Revenge of the Red Knight by Marianne Hering and Paul McCusker

In this latest book of the Imagination Station Series, Beth and Patrick have traveled through time again, but this time they have no idea what time period they are in when they get to their destination.  The time machine has just picked a location and sent them there after their successful mission in China with the golden tablet.  We finally get to learn who the mysterious Albert is.  We also learn who the knight is and how he is able to follow them in the Imagination Station around through time.    Will Beth and Patrick be able to save Albert?  You'll have to read Revenge of the Red Knight to find out.

I have had the opportunity to review all 4 of the books in this series thus far.  I've really enjoyed reading them, and I think they would make a wonderful addition to any library for kids ages 7 and up. It has proven to be a delightful series filled with mystery, but also includes some history as well.  So, if you're looking for a good series that will encourage your child to read, make sure to pick this one up!  Look for book 5 in the series called: Showdown with a Shepherd where Beth and Patrick travel back in time to the Holy Land in the 10th century B.C.

*I received this book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

A Reluctant Queen by Joan Wolf

A Reluctant Queen is a story based on the life of Esther.  I think knowing that this book is based on the story and not an accurate re-telling of the story is key.  While many of the elements are from the story we have read in the Bible narrative, additional ideas have been added to the story to fill in the gaps.  The differences are discussed at the end of the book by the author in the chapter entitled "Author's Note." For example, Esther does not marry King Xerxes, but instead marries a fictional character named Ahasuerus who is Xerxes brother.  The characters we all know--Haman, and Mordecai--are still in the story.  The book helps to re-create living in the Persian Empire and brings the story of Esther alive with a little romance.

Joan Wolf does a great job helping your imagination come to life while reading this wonderful story about Esther.  It allows you to think through all the possibilities that might have happened while she was queen and the emotional struggle she must of went through.  I'm anxious to read back through the biblical narrative again now that I've read through this book.  While I really enjoyed reading this book,  I would suggest that this not be on the the reading list for teenagers.  Obviously, Esther does marry the king and the book brings up what it must of been like for her to have that first night with this man she hardly knew.  While everything was done tastefully in the book, I would suggest this book for a more mature audience.  This book was delightful to read and made me really think about the culture of the day and what is must of been like for the Jewish girl to have the courage for such a huge task.

**I was given this e-book by Booksneeze Blogger's Program in exchange for an honest opinion. 

While the World Watched by Carolyn Maull McKinstry with Denise George

This book was on my list for the summer reading program at Tyndale house publishers.  You can sign up for that program here.  After reading this book, I found that I knew very little about the civil rights movement.  Of course, I had heard about Martin Luther King jr., who hadn't.  I mean, we do have a day named after him on our calendars, but I really didn't understand the whole struggle that the African-Americans went through in the south....particularly Birmingham, Alabama.  This story is written by a survivor of the Sixteenth Baptist Church  bombing that happened on September 15, 1963 in Birmingham, Alabama.  She recalls her journey through that awful time in our nation's history and the lessons she learned as she tried to deal with the devastating depression she faced after the horrific incident.
I really enjoyed reading this book.  I love history and reading this book was helpful in helping me to understand what the civil rights movement was all about.  I was born in the 1970's and lived in the north.  I had no connection to the south and really didn't understand what the African-American struggle was all about.  After reading all of the atrocities they had to endure, it makes me sick to my stomach to think that so many were treated in such a horrific way.  What courage it took for the many who did stand up to the treatment and voice their right to freedom.  This book is a great read and I would encourage everyone to read it.  

**I checked this book out from my local library. 

Summer Reading Fun!

If you want to be involved with a summer reading program, Tyndale house is giving a free book for every 5 books you read from their list of books. I'm just getting the books from my local library.   Books you can win? Beth Moore's So Long Insecurity, Francine River's Her Mother's Hope and Her Daughter's Dream...and many others to choose from. So, click here and sign up today to start earning free books.

Peril in the Palace by Paul McCusker and Marianne Hering (AIO Imagination Station Book 3)

The last 2 books are out for the Imagination Station series.  I just finished reading book 3 Peril in the Palace.  This book was another exciting adventure in the continuation of the quest to save Mr. Whittaker's friend, Albert.  You can read my reviews of book 1 here and book 2 here.  Much like the other books, Patrick and Beth learn about the history and culture of the time they have been transported to.  In this book, they travel back in time to the year 1271 to the land of China to meet Kublai Khan.  Their mission is to find the golden tablet of Kublai Khan.  Mr. Whittaker gives them several packages to give to others as gifts in order to help them with their mission.   Some of the gifts prove helpful, while others do not seem to work and get them into more trouble.  You'll have to read the book to find out if they complete their mission in finding the golden tablet in time to help Mr. Whittaker's friend, Albert.

I really liked the previous 2 books of this series and the third book did not disappoint.   The books are great for this age group (ages 7 and up).  I think that the writing is well done and that the plot will keep the young reader's attention.   I definitely recommend this series!  You can read the first 5 pages of the 4th book in the series The Revenge of the Red Knight here on Adventures in Odyssey's The Imagination Station website.  Just click on the read button that says Watch a Click Book.

****Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

Tyndale House has free E-books for June

This month Tyndale house is offering several of their books for free in an e-book version.  You can find the list here on the their website.  If you don't have an e-reader, you can download an application for your computer.  Tyndale House has a list of all the current readers available for download.  Click here to read.

We Shall See God: Charle's Spurgeon's classic devotional thoughts on heaven by Randy Alcorn

Randy Alcorn has compiled 50 days of readings of Charles Spurgeon's sermons on Heaven.  The book begins with an introduction on the life of Charles Spurgeon giving you a glimpse into the life of a man who had crowds of thousands listening to his sermons.  Each daily reading has an excerpt from one of Spurgeon's sermons on heaven and then some thoughts by Randy Alcorn.  Some edits have been made to the sermons only to help clarify the english language that has changed in the past 150 years.  Randy Alcorn explains all the changes that have been made in his introduction to this book.

We Shall See God has been an interesting read.  I was excited to read this book since I had never read any of Spurgeon's writings before.   Randy Alcorn has done a great job compiling and editing the readings for this book, and I thoroughly enjoyed having my focus directed heavenward.  I don't think that we mediate enough on all that God has prepared for us in His dwelling place called Heaven.  It is too easy to focus on this world and the temporal instead of the eternal.  "In Heaven we'll at last be freed of self-righteousness and self-deceit.  We'll no longer question God's goodness; we'll see it, savor it, enjoy it, and declare it to our companions.  Surely we will wonder how we ever could have doubted his goodness.  One look at the scarred hands of our Savior will suffice, for then our faith will be sight--we shall see God." (pg. 23)  If you want to focus on the eternal rather then the temporal life,  I would definitely recommend this book.

You can read the first chapter of the book here.

**Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

Love Finds You in Lahaina, Hawaii by Bodie Thoene

Back in February, I read a book by Bodie Thoene called Love Finds You in Lahaina, Hawaii.  I really liked this book so much that I thought I'd better do a review on it.  It was the first historical fiction book I had read in quite a while.  This book is actually part of a Love Finds You collection written by many different authors.  You can read about the books and see all of the titles here.

This book actually has 2 different stories going on at the same time.  Sandi headed to Hawaii to interview an eyewitness to history for a 50 states History Project for UCLA's masters program.  Her contact happens to be an older lady named Auntie Hannah who has quite a story to tell.  The story takes place in 1890 amidst growing unrest in Hawaii.  What Sandi finds in Hawaii is a story filled with intrigue, mystery and love that also helps her deal with battles that she is facing in her own life. 

I loved the story and thought it was so well written.  I love reading a fun story filled with actual history.  Bodie Thoene is one of my favorite historical fiction writers.  I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for something fun to read.

**I checked out this book at my local library.

When God Created My Toes by Dandi Daley Mackall

This past week, I received the book When God Created My Toes in the mail to read and review.  I had requested the book because of the cute cover, and I really liked the title. The book goes through the different parts of a child's body pointing out each part that God made.  When I opened the book to read it, I did not find what I was expecting.  While I liked the idea of the book, I didn't care for the wording or the artwork.   For example, one page had a little girl getting into trouble with her hands and the words on the page said, "Did my fingers snap?  Did he help me clap?  Did we cheer for angel bands when God created my hands?"  Angel bands?  Not sure what the author was going for with this.  This book was disappointing and I wouldn't recommend it.

*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books blogger program.

Love and War by John and Stasi Eldredge

I wasn't sure what I would find when I began this book, Love and War. Since it was endorsed by Beth Moore, I thought I would give it a try. The book deals with several different marital issues and it encourages couples that marriage can be done.  But then reminds couples that they shouldn't expect marriage to be easy.   One thought that I really liked from the book was: "You play the most critical role in your spouse's life.  No one will have a greater impact on your spouse's soul than you.  No one has greater access to your spouse's heart than you." (pg. 38)  It was a great reminder to me of the impact I have on my husband.
Overall, I wasn't impressed with the book.  I thought it was shallow when discussing the different topics of marriage.  I was a little surprised by the vocabulary that was used in this book.  There were phrases that I do not use in my vocabulary, and I didn't appreciate having to read it in this "Christian" book.  I was also taken aback at all the references to movies throughout the book.  I thought that they didn't add any depth to the message and were unnecessary.  I wouldn't recommend this book.

**I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program in exchange for an honest review.


Below, you can read the first chapter for yourself and come to your own conclusion.
Love and War by John and Stasi Eldredge (Chapter 1 Excerpt)

The Lightkeeper's Ball by Colleen Coble

The Lightkeeper's Ball is actually a part of the series called Mercy Falls and is the 3rd book.  This book however can be read as a novel completely on it's own.  The book's main character is Olivia Stewart, who heads to California after discovering her sister, Eleanor, died a mysterious death.  The town is led to believe that Eleanor committed suicide, but Olivia is determined to get to the bottom of what really happened.  Olivia gets more than she bargained for after she is thrown overboard on her way to Mercy Falls.  Her rescuer just happens to be Eleanor's fiancee.  Is it the right place at the right time or is he behind this?  Olivia is driven to find the answers she is looking for.

I wasn't sure if I would like this author or not since I had never read any of her books.  But once I picked this book up, I couldn't put it down.  I read it in about 3 days.  This book was great!  I think that the author did a wonderful job in keeping it suspenseful.  It kept me wondering as to who had done it with all the twists and turns.  I loved how each chapter made me want to keep going to the next.  It is definitely a fun read, and I would highly recommend it!  I'm definitely going to look up her other books now and read some more of her work.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.

Ann Voskamp's One Thousand Gifts

Trailer for the Book


I just finished reading Ann Voskamp's One Thousand Gifts.  I wanted to participate in the Bloom Book Club when they chose to go through this book, but that did not happen.  I have included all the videos links in the bottom of this post that they posted online while reading through this book.  The videos are done by Angie Smith (author of I Will Carry You), Jessica Turner and Ann Voskamp.  You can read through each chapter and watched the corresponding video with it to hear Ann describe each chapter in her own words.

This book made me cry as I thought about my own pain with my brother's passing away (Oct. 8, 1999) and the year I faced 3 miscarriages (May '04, Nov. '04, and Feb. '05).  This book touched my heart.  Ann does a beautiful job of writing her feelings and thoughts so descriptively.  She writes the questions that many of us think deep within our hearts after we face a devastating tragedy...questions that we dare not say out loud for fear of what others might think of us.

"Can there be a good God? A God who graces with good gifts when a crib lies empty through long nights, and bugs burrow through coffins?  Where is God, really?  How can He be good when babies die, and marriages implode, and dreams blow away, dust in the wind? ...Where hides this joy of the Lord, this God who fills the earth with good things, and how do I fully live when life is full of hurt?" (pg. 12)

It isn't until a friend dares Ann to list one thousand gifts that things begin to really change in her life. She begins to list not the things she wants, but the gifts she has already been given.  It begins to help her see the grace of God in her life in the little everyday things from jam on toast to nature outside and more.  She learns what it means to be thankful and it changes her life. 

"When the laundry is for the dozen arms of children or the dozen legs, it's true, I think I'm due some appreciation.  So comes a storm of trouble and lightning strikes joy.  But when Christ is at the center, when dishes, laundry, work is my song of thanks to Him, joy rains."  (pg. 194)  I love this.   It's exactly what I face every day.  And like Ann says in the book, it's a daily choice of gratitude and with that choice, my whole outlook on life changes b/c life is not about me but about Christ.  I know that I have struggled with the goodness of God in all of the tragedy too and I'm looking forward to putting what Ann has talked about into practice.  The practice of giving thanks...in all things...even the hard ones.  I desire for the Lord to change this heart that has been angry for so long and that He would restore the joy and peace that only He can give....yes, two of His many gifts to someone like me who is so undeserving.

This is one of those books that you must read.  So go to your local bookstore or check it out from the library and enjoy a book that will change your perspective on life.

Video Links

Video Chapter 1          Video Chapter 5          Video Chapter 9

Video Chapter 2         Video Chapter 6          Video Chapter 10

Video Chapter 3         Video Chapter 7          Video Chapter 11

Video Chapter 4         Video Chapter 8          Video Chapter 12

**I checked this book out from my local library of my own free will. :)

Craving Grace by Lisa Velthouse

Craving Grace by Lisa Velthouse is a memoir that begins with a girl who thinks she is doing everything right and trying to please God by what she is doing.  When things fall apart, she thinks maybe she isn't doing enough.  She feels as though she needs to earn God's favor toward her.  Her biggest success is that she has been saving her first kiss for her fiance/husband.  Then one day, she decides to fast for 6 months from sweets and everything turns upside down.  Lisa learns a lot as she goes on this journey that takes her from relying on her works to relying on the grace of God in her life.

Before I sat down with this book, I wasn't sure what to expect from this author.  It was an easy read (I read it in just a few days).  I think that most human beings can identify with the author in that we struggle with trying to win God's favor with our works instead of realizing that God loves us no matter what.  I appreciated her honesty with her struggle to let grace reign in her life.  But, there were times while I was reading that I got lost in the time line of her life since she would jumped back and forth in the story from three years before to the present.  I also wished that the author would of pointed to Christ more often since He is our sole source of grace.  I would have to say that this book's rating is okay.  It's the type of book that you could either take it or leave it.


**I received a complimentary copy of the book for review purposes from Tyndale House.

God Gave Us Two by Lisa Tawn Bergren

God Gave Us Two is an adorable little story that helps little ones who are facing the addition of a new baby into their family.  What will life be like after the new baby comes?  Throughout the book the parents reassure their little cub that "God gave us you.  Now he's given us two!"

I loved the book.  I think the author does a great job presenting the simple questions a toddler or preschooler might have with a new baby on the horizon.  I like that the author brings in all the great things the little bear cub will be able to teach the new baby since she is the big sister.  It gives the child something to look forward to especially since they like to be little helpers at the toddler or preschool age.  The illustrations by Laura J. Bryant are pleasing to the eye and captivating enough to hold the attention of small audience members.  I highly recommend this book.  This would be a great gift for a family that is expecting their 2nd child.  Below is a cute coloring page from the book for your little one to color.

**I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

God Gave Us Two - Coloring Page

Bookie Woogie Blog--book reviews done by a dad and his kids

Our friends the Zenz family were on TV today.  You can see the video below.


Their book review blog is great.  They talk about different books they have read and even review some of the books authors.  You can read their blog here at Bookie Woogie.

Kay Arthur's When the Hurt Runs Deep

I just finished reading a great book by Kay Arthur called When the Hurt Runs Deep.  As someone who has gone through some deep trials in life, I really appreciated this book.  Kay Arthur has a done a great job addressing the hard times of life by pointing readers to the only true Healer, God.  She too has gone through some deep valleys and knows first hand how difficult it can be to turn your focus off of your overwhelming circumstance and back onto the only One who can help.
When addressing the issue of being angry with God, Kay writes, "...if you continue to hold on to anger against the One who loves you most, then realize this: that anger will become a deadly cancer--a cancer of the soul--that will eventually destroy you.  It will rob you of peace, joy and ministry." (pgs. 45-46)  She uses the lives of David, Job and Joseph among others to draw conclusions about how to react in different heartbreaking situations.  When talking about the benefits of suffering, Kay writes, "If God chooses to allow suffering to enter your experience in order to advance His purposes in your life and give you a deeper experience of Him, the worst thing you could do would be to react in anger and bitterness.  By doing so, you are essentially saying, 'God, I don't want Your plan for my life.  If I have to endure this heartache, then I don't want You to advance Your purposes in me.  I don't want Your provision of extra grace and the sense of Your nearness, because the price is too high!'" (pgs. 146-147)

A great feature of this book is that there is a study guide in the back that can be used for individual or group study.  She has done a fabulous job with the study guide.  I love that she does not ask you to re-write what she said in the book.  She asks great questions that point you to the Scriptures and get you thinking.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who is going through a difficult experience and struggling with anger towards God or others, depression, forgiveness, and many other issues dealing with emotional pain. 

*I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.


Below you can read the 12 healing truths that Kay Arthur covers in her book and see the first 4 chapters in the study guide.  This book is available in hardcover and eBook.

Chapter 1 of Kay Arthur's book

When The Hurt Runs Deep: Healing Truths by Kay Arthur (Chapter 1)

Study Guide

When the Hurt Runs Deep by Kay Arthur (Study Guide)

Tyndale Book Club Hub Giveaway and Sign-up

Tyndale House is starting a new book club e-newsletter and is celebrating that by running a 30 day giveaway on their website.  This newsletter is for people who are in or are running book clubs. It will feature suggestions, discussion guides and great ideas. To enter the giveaway you can click here and choose which book you'd like to win and fill out the form.  Remember to check back every day since each day is a new giveaway and every few days the books will change.  Right now the books to win are:

 

Attack at the Arena (Imagination Station books) by Paul McCusker and Marianne Hering

Not too long ago, I was able to review Voyage of the Vikings (Imagination Station books)  the first book in the Imagination Station series (Adventures in Odyssey).   So, I was excited to received Attack at the Arena this past week.  This is the second book in the series.  In this book, Patrick and Beth's adventure continues when they head back in time to ancient Rome.  Their mission is to find a silver cup in the hopes of helping a mysterious man named Albert.  Patrick and Beth discover a lot about ancient Rome and get into a little bit of trouble along the way. The other books in this series are: Voyage of the Vikings (book 1), Peril in the Palace (book 3), and Revenge of the Red Knight (book 4).  This series is recommended for children ages 7 and up.

I really enjoyed reading this second book in the series.  This book does a great job carrying the exciting mystery that was begun in the first book.   Also, I like the fact that this book is not only a mystery, but it also helps children learn a little bit about ancient Rome in the process.  I would highly recommend this book.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers in an exchange for an honest review.