A Meal With Jesus by Tim Chester

A Meal with Jesus: Discovering Grace, Community, and Mission around the Table by Tim Chester
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I have always known that The Son of Man came to "seek and save the lost" but never have I thought about The Son of Man coming to eat and drink as found in Luke 7:34. In this short, yet very thought-provoking read Tim Chester digs into the book of Luke to show us how Jesus used meals as more than just a time to nourish His body but rather a time to feed the souls of many. Using the example of Jesus, Chester exhorts us in 6 chapter to apply the service of hospitality in our own lives to minister to the church and to the lost.

I personally loved the overall emphasis of this book and I walked away with a new perspective and understanding of Jesus' earthly ministry. Reading A Meal with Jesus challenged me to rethink my purpose in hospitality and convicted me to use this ordinary tool more often in sharing His grace with others. The message of this book is powerful and fresh.

This book gets 4 stars because of it's content and I highly recommend it. It's a rather short read at 143 pages long. (Contrary to what Goodreads.com says of it being 160 pages.) However, I found it a challenging book to read. Although it is only 6 chapters long, they were to me packed way too full and were not as succinct as they could have been. I frequently lost focus as he seemed to jump around a lot and make a simple point more wordy than necessary. While I personally don't have a problem with this, I feel bad in that more people would probably pick this good looking book up, begin to read it, and finish it if it was a bit less wordy. My challenge to you is for you to grab a copy and see for yourself. And if you agree with me, let me encourage you that is indeed worth pushing through to enjoy the whole book.

The Magic Show Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner

The Magic Show Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

This is number four in the Adventures of Benny and Watch series which is a young reader version of the Boxcar Children series. While focusing mainly on little Benny and his dog, Watch, it includes all the children and their Grandfather. In this short book you'll read about Benny learning to do some magic tricks and the fun that he has teaching Watch to help him. I highly recommend reading this to preschool age children or giving it to a first or second grade child to read on their own.

Martin Luther by Mike Fearon

Martin Luther by Mike Fearon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

For as far back as I can remember I have known who Martin Luther is and have had a vague understanding of his life. However, this wonderful little biography changed that for me! In roughly three hours of reading I gained a brief, yet thorough, overview of his life which began with great fear and ended with strong faith.

This 160 page book is short and easy-to-read, but could be a little challenging for younger teens to read. It might be a challenge worth making them work through since Luther's life is such an encouragement to the "average" person. Not only did I enjoy learning about Luther as a historical figure, but I reveled in learning about how God used an ordinary man to bring such extraordinary change to the church. And this short read lit the spark to read more about Luther and his life - especially his last 20 years being married to Katy!

Anyone who reads this book will walk away with more understanding of who Martin Luther really was, what his life work was all about, and be encouraged by how God an change what seems impossible to change. I highly recommend it to teens and adults both. It would also be a great book to read as a family for those with middle school age children and on up.

Meet the Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner

Meet the Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I never knew about this series until Micah received it for Christmas. It is the cutest set of early reader books based on the original series of The Boxcar Kids. They are simplified and condensed to a young reader level, but still follow the basic outline of the older version. Each page has colorful illustrations and the story line is from the perspective of young Benny. I highly recommend this book - and this series - which is probably best for a first to second grade reading level or ages 4 to 8 for reading together.

Appetizers by Taste Of Home

Taste of Home: Appetizers: 325 Simple Party Foods by Taste of Home
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I am not a cookbook collector but I like a comprehensive and functional one when I find it. Taste of Home offers many options and this is one of them. This one is all about appetizers - hence the name! - and offers not just fancy choices for dinner parties, but tasty treats for many occasions. It is divided into various categories such as "Handheld Snacks", "Spreads & Dips", "All Wrapped Up", and more. This is a fun and functional recipe book that is both classy and family friendly.

At the Throne of Grace by John MacArthur

At the Throne of Grace: A Book of Prayers by John F. MacArthur Jr.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Maybe it's due to my conservative roots or maybe it's just my personal preferences - I am really not sure - but books full of prayers to pray have always given me an uncomfortable feeling. Like I am plagiarizing on holy ground...or something. However, I highly respect John MacArthur and so when I saw His new release - At the Throne of Grace - I jumped at the opportunity to at least see what it was and maybe just maybe dip my toes into the pool of prayer books.

The first thing that I appreciated about this book was the introduction written by his children who share that they were the ones that begged him to have some of his prayers published into book format. This letter reassured me of MacArthur's humility in this arena and also made me a feel a little more at ease with reading someone else's prayers.

This book is divided into five topical sections with a brief appendix. Each prayer begins with an introductory passage of Scripture written out for you to read before the actual prayer. And I must add here that to my utter surprise I quickly found myself enjoying this book and all these prayers from another person. As I read I began to say the words myself and my heart was drawn into worship of our Almighty God.

So why would I recommend this book? Not because I think you should pray the exact same prayers of others per-say, but because I think as you read John's prayers they help refocus you to worship God more in prayer than just coming with your grocery list of needs for a quick session of begging. You most likely won't read this book in one sitting or straight through, but rather set it on the coffee table and pick it up every now and then and let yourself slip into moments of worship and adoration of the Creator of all.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Bible teacher MacArthur has a passion for honoring God, obeying his Word, and proclaiming Christ as Lord---and he invites you to join him! Bringing together select readings from over 40 years of his ministry, this collection of prayers and Scripture will stir your heart to pursue a deeper, more meaningful communion with God. 208 pages, hardcover from Harvest.

John & Betty Stam by Kathleen White

John and Betty Stam by Kathleen White
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

While slightly difficult to read - and probably not best for readers under 12 - this book is a short biography of John and Betty Stam. It begins with an introduction to the history of missions in China and ends with the legacy their lives left behind. This book is a brief 128 pages, but filled with their short and impacting testimony of God's goodness and faithfulness in all things.

I was significantly blessed by their continuing trust in God in all things - small and large. Their lives - as short as they were - were such bright lights for Christ and truly brought glory to God both in life and in death.

This book is a great overview of their lives and an encouraging testimony of God's work in the lives of those who have gone on before us. You will be encouraged by their faithfulness and challenged by their dedication.

31 Days to Clean by Sarah Mae

31 Days to Clean by Sarah Mae
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

There are lots of books out there to help those who want a clean house, but I don't know of any others that break it down into such "bit-sized" bits for each day. I really appreciate and respect Sarah Mae's day-by-day approach to getting your home clean all the while keeping Christ at the center.

This book is balanced with helpful how-to hints, Biblical perspective for each day, and the why behind what we do to keeping our home clean. 31 Days to Clean isn't about making you fit into the perfect routine, it's about finding the right routine that fits your home, enables you to bless others, and most importantly - glorify God.

I really enjoyed this book and the encouragement it has to offer no matter what the state of your home. Anyone can read this book and find practical and useable ideas as well as spiritual truth to change your thinking concerning your home. For those who want to get your house in order, it is a great friend to walk you daily through the process. And for those who have already well established routines and order this is a great look into tweaking what you do and evaluating your heart motive in keeping a clean home.

And last, but far from least...did I mention how wonderfully short and sweet it is?! It only takes a moment to read the daily chapter and walk away invigorated with new perspective!

Blogger Behave by Laura Booz

Blogger Behave: Make your blog benefit your life, so you can love both! by Laura Booz

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

This is a short and sweet book that will breath new life into your blogging!

The subtitle sums up this book well. Blogger Behave is all about making your blog behave and finding balance between your real life and online life. While Laura does talk about our actual online behavior, the focus of the book is more behind the scenes. A very important topic to address these day!

I really liked how Laura didn't waste any time. She jumps right into each subject, presents her thoughts clearly, and moves on. It only took me two hours to read from start to finish.

Blogger Behave is a good mix of blogging philosophy and practical application. It covers vision, expectations, scheduling, benefits, integrity, transparency, and more. Her candor and real life examples are not only fun, but encouraging, and will have you laughing.

Whether you are a new blogger, and old blogger, or a pro blogger, I believe you will find inspiration in this book. I walked away with a fresh perspective and simplified goals for my blog. Rather then feeling duty, this book helped me come back to the delight of blogging - both for myself, and most importantly, for God.

There’s a Wocket in My Pocket! by Dr. Seuss

There's a Wocket in My Pocket! by Dr. Seuss
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is one of my all time favorite kids books. It's fun to read and fun to listen to! While it's pure silliness, it is great for teaching children about rhymes. My 1st grade daughter loves reading this book aloud and it is great practice for sounding out words. Wocket In My Pocket engages a child's imagination and invokes pretending since most everything is made up in this story. I give it 4 stars for it's wholesome entertainment and high educational value.

Sneezy the Snowman by Maureen Wright

Sneezy the Snowman by Maureen Wright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

This book is adorable! The pictures are delightful and downright fun to look at. They are rich in color and full of action. The story line is that of a snowman who keeps having to be rebuilt for reasons that you'll have to read the book to find out! While it's simply a fun read, it's easy to tie it to a lesson on being content with the way God made you. I think that it's a delightful book to add to your bookshelves, especially if you have children ages 2 to 6.

Life-Changing Bible Verses You Should Know by Erwin & Rebecca Lutzer

Life-Changing Bible Verses You Should Know by Erwin W. Lutzer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Practical. Helpful. Informative.

I got to review this book in kindle format, but this is a book I really want in a black and white print edition! Each chapter addresses a topical issue with key verses one should memorize and then insight into how each of those verses applies. I like it because when struggling with a specific issue this is easy to use in not only finding out what the Bible says, but also exactly how that applies to the problem. This book is easy reading and encouraging. I would recommend it for anyone - teens, adults, families, etc. Also, because it has study questions at the end of each chapter it makes a great simple Bible study or group program for memorizing together.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

After Erwin Lutzer, senior pastor of the Moody Church, and his wife, Rebecca, realized that memorizing Scripture has nearly become a lost pursuit today, they decided to create this practical, relevant resource filled with powerful verses and insightful explanations to help stimulate a spiritual hunger in readers’ own lives. With more than 35 topics and questions for reflection and further study, readers will discover how God’s Word will:

sustain them in times of need
comfort them in seasons of sorrow
strengthen their hearts in times and areas of weakness
direct their steps and decisions toward God’s will

These handpicked verses provide a foundation of wisdom and hope to show readers who God is and what He has done for them, as well as who they are and how they can successfully live the Christian life.

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This review copy was provided by NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers but the opinion expressed is my own.

Blue Skies Tomorrow by Sarah Sundin

Blue Skies Tomorrow: A Novel by Sarah Sundin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

In the Wings of Glory series you will feel as if you have stepped back in time to the WWII era as the deep characters bring to life both the joys and sorrows of one of our counties most trying times. In this third book we read the story of yet another Novak boy while wrapping up more details in the stories of the other two brothers.

I really enjoy Sarah's wholesome writing while still dealing with some very deep and challenging topics. The theme of this book surprised me to say the least, especially after reading the past two books. However, it was a good surprise and I enjoyed the book as my emotions went from sad to happy and back again several times until reaching a happy ending.

This is a book, and a series, that I both enjoyed and would recommend for and adult woman wanting a dose of fiction to read. However, due to the theme in this book - abuse - I would not recommend it for young readers or those already sensitive to this topic.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Lt. Raymond Novak prefers the pulpit to the cockpit, but at least his stateside job training B-17 pilots allows him the luxury of a personal life. As he courts Helen Carlisle, a young war widow and mother who conceals her pain under a frenzy of volunteer work, the sparks of their romance set a fire that flings them both into peril. After Ray leaves to fly a combat mission at the peak of the air war over Europe, Helen takes a job in a dangerous munitions yard and confronts an even graver menace in her own home. Will they find the courage to face their challenges? And can their young love survive until blue skies return? Filled with daring and romance, Blue Skies Tomorrow will capture readers' hearts.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Litfuse but the opinion expressed is strictly my own.

Dusty Mole Private Eye by Barbara Davoll

MY REVIEW:

This is a kids book that approaches the topic of drugs in a very appropriate way while entertaining and teaching through a delightful tale. It should be needless to say, but I will make sure I am clear that it teaches against drugs. It is the first book in a series about brother and sister moles and a host of othor furry characters. While this is a small chapter book meant for 3rd or 4th grade readers to read alone, it also served well for me to read it aloud to my 4, 6, & 8 year old. They enjoyed the story and it was an easy way to introduce a hard topic. I would recommend this book to any of my friends who are reading to kids.

A Woman’s Walk In Truth by Vonette Bright

A Woman's Walk in Truth: Devotions for Living a Confident Faith by Vonette Bright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Short. Sweet. Simple. Inspiring.

This small, yet thick book is filled with wonderful devotions for women. They are short, yet ever so sweetly inspiring and tied to the truth of Scripture. I really enjoyed the insightful thoughts and stories and the verse to meditate on. However, my favorite part was the ending thought of each day titled This I Believe. In one sentence, Vonette wraps the devotion up in a truth that will stick with you.

I think this book makes a great mid-day treat to read a page while eating your lunch or waiting at an appointment. Any age woman will appreciate the devotionals and that makes it a perfect gift for any occasion! Bring a smile to a friends day and give her a copy of A Woman's Walk In Truth.

In closing I want to issue a caution that this is indeed a devotional book which is meant for an appetizer, not your main dish. It is a great encouragement book, but in no way is it a Bible study.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Award-winning radio host Vonette Bright is the founder of Women Today ministries and co-founder with husband, Dr. Bill Bright, of Campus Crusade for Christ International. She speaks regularly to thousands of women about the importance and joy of walking in the truth of God’s Word.

In this beautiful padded hardcover filled with refreshing devotions, select verses, “This I Believe” statements, and stories of women modeling remarkable faith, Vonette encourages all women to:

choose God and His character as their foundation of truth
move forward with renewed confidence in Christ
demonstrate their faith convictions in their daily ways
make God the center of their life
experience God’s remarkable purpose for them

Through each meditation, Vonette leads women to give every area of their life to God’s control and experience the blessings of a daily journey lived in Christ’s love.

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This review copy was provided by Harvest House Publishers but the opinion expressed is strictly my own.

The Bare Facts by Josh McDowell

The Bare Facts: 39 Answers to Questions Your Parents Hope You Never Ask About Sex by Josh McDowell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Informative. Biblical. Sobering. Straight-forward. Honest.

This book is an open look at sex from multiple aspects through a Biblical lens. It answers 39 questions that most teens probably wonder about but never have the courage to ask their parents about. Quite honestly, there are parts of this book that I would be hesitant in talking about with my teens!

I really appreciate the Biblical framework of this book and the honest way McDowell approaches each question. I walked away from this book being amazed at the perfect way in which God created us and how blessed and purely delightful sex is when kept in God's context. However, it's also a sobering look at the hardships produces by sex outside of God's plan. The Bare Facts covers purity, STDs, what love really is, premarital sex and it's impact, masturbation, sexual addiction, God's forgiveness, and much more. I would highly recommend all parents to read this book so you are prepared to answer questions. And really, all married adults would benefit from reading this book. While it is written for teens, I highly recommend it being older teens and encouraged each parent to use caution and discernment based on what your teen already knows. And it should go without saying, read it before they read it!

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This review copy was provided for review courtesy of Moody Publishers through NetGalley, but the opinion expressed is my own.

The Call by David Nasser and Brent Crowe

THE CALL by David Nasser
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Inspiring. Challenging. Interesting. Practical. Helpful. Informative.

The Call is split into two sections - the first being about God's call on your life and the second is a series of interviews with well known Christians about God's call in their lives. It is a very practical "how-to" book as well as very encouraging, inspiring, and full of great advice. It is easy to read and easy to understand and digest. Each chapter can stand alone, but the book flow well with an overall theme of knowing God's call.

I appreciated this unique book and it's intent on helping the reader know and understand God's calling on their life. While I think it's geared for teens and young adults, it's a great read for any age and there is much wisdom to be gleaned at any stage of the journey. There is humor sprinkled around - especially in the interviews - that makes this book personable and real. The first half, which is more "hands-on", is very simple yet very thought-provoking as you apply it to your life. I really enjoyed the second half as it was a window into the lives of so many whom minister to us as they shared wisdom from following the call of God in their lives.

This book is perfect for the 16 to 21 age bracket, but definitely beneficial for younger teens and older adults as well. I highly recommend this book to all teens - especially those wanting to know what God's call is for their life.

Dirty Girls Come Clean by Crystal Renaud

Dirty Girls Come Clean by Crystal Renaud
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I took the opportunity to review this book because it's a topic you don't see much about and as I work with teen girls and women I wanted to be aware of these issues. However, I quickly realized it was so much more than just an informative read. I was both shocked and helped by this book. Shocked because I did not know, nor understand, the depth in which women struggle with sexual addictions. And I was helped because it's more than just information about the issues, it's practical help for overcoming these sins.

This book is not for young readers and due to the testimonies included I stress caution and discernment in reading this book. However, that said, this book will be a huge encouragement and help to those struggling with these particular sins or an aid for those helping others who are struggling. The testimonies show you God's grace and how He can overcome anything. Each section of this book is weighty but digs into the details of how to handle sexual sin and temptation in very practical ways.

I would recommend this book to any woman who is struggling with a sexual sin or knows someone who is, or perhaps doesn't know if she is or not. After reading this book you might just realize that you've been struggling with a sin pattern in your own life. For those who are married I would suggest reading it as a couple so the husband understands the issues as well.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Moody Publishers but the opinion expressed is my own.

Forever After by Deborah Raney

Forever After by Deborah Raney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

This is the sequel to Almost Forever yet this second book can be read without having read the first and still be enjoyable. It follows the characters of the first, but digs deeper into other characters that were just mentioned in the first book.

I really liked the story and was quickly engaged in the book. It's great story line that is sprinkled with some suspense, romance, tension, a hint of mystery, and a lot of spiritual truth. This book picks up the theme of forgiveness found in Almost Forever and weaves in new themes of contentment and joy. You will find that the story line is fresh, the characters are true to life, and the content wholesome. I enjoyed this is a relaxing read and I'm sure you will, too. Deborah has a fabulous writing style that will make you want to read more books by her - and she has plenty to offer! The only weakness that I found was that the ending seemed rushed a bit and it felt like there could have been more depth to how things happened - seemed a bit too tidy. However, it is still a great book to read for change of pace in heavy reading or a day off to relax. And the challenges that Jenna - the main character - faces will encourage and challenge you in your own walk with God.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Jenna Morgan mourned the loss of her husband, Zach, in the fire that destroyed the Hanover Falls homeless shelter and claimed the lives of three other firefighters. A year later, her ability to keep up the charade of prosperity she and Zach lived is at an end. Even with financial help from Zach's parents, she can't make the mortgage and credit card payments. But Jenna Morgan refuses to go back to the trailer home life from which she escaped. She's come so far. She just can't go back to that.

Lucas Vermontez has endured physical therapy for a year, but the legs crushed while he fought the homeless shelter fire are nowhere near 100% yet. Will his dream of returning to the fire station ever become reality? And can he conquer these feelings he has for his best buddy's widow?

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This review copy was proved courtesy of Glass Roads Publications but the opinion expressed is strictly my own and was in no way influenced.

Fallen Angel by Jeff Struecker & Alton Gansky

Fallen Angel: A Novel

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MOM'S REVIEW:

John 15:13 comes alive in this novel about a Special Ops Unit assigned the task of rescuing a fallen satellite and some injured military personnel in enemy territory. It is a race against two other enemy nations trying, at all costs, to get their hands on the satellite as well.

The cast and story are unbelievably real as the author, Major Struecker, is a Black Hawk Down veteran and keeps you "on the edge". I was amazed at what our special forces are willing to go through for our country; and I gained a new appreciation for our military.

I would caution younger readers about the violence involved in interrogation techniques used in this story. Otherwise, it gets my high recommendation.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of B&H Publishing by the opinion expressed was my own.