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.

John Calvin by Catherine Mackenzie

John Calvin Little Lights: What is the Truth by Catherine Mackenzie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

In my endeavor to introduce my children to men and women of strong faith I turned to the Little Lights biography series and this delightful book is the seventh out of eight in the series. It is appropriate for young children ages two to three and on up. This book is about the life of John Calvin and it begins the story when he was a young boy getting a funny haircut for school. It is a full picture book with relevant and life-like illustrations that capture the child's attention while reading the simple but comprehensive story line. It also contains picture captions that sum up the paragraph on the opposing page for the young readers who browse this book alone. While it can't cover John's life in great detail, it is a healthy balance between tid-bits that attract kids and the main points of his life and ministry. And the entire book is written in a beautiful flow that is easy for kids to understand and still interesting to older readers. I highly recommend this book to anyone with young children or who interacts with young children. You will be blessed and so will they!

Martin Luther by Catherine Mackenzie

Martin Luther Little Lights by Mackenzie Catherine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I really want my children to learn at young ages about the men and women who have poured out their lives to further the gospel for the generations to come. Martin Luther is one of those heroes of faith and this book is a perfect introduction for my children ages 4, 6, and 8.

It's a picture book and biography combined and it is fun to look at and interesting to read for both young and old. It is a fairly comprehensive overview of his life for such a small book meant for such young minds. I appreciate how it talks not just about his adult ministry, but begins with his childhood, too. This sweet book also includes captions on the picture page that sum up what is being read on the opposite page - kind of a "young reader" phrase that a first grader can read and still understand when browsing the book alone.

I highly recommend this book because it's a delightful short read perfect for any time and any age that brings to light the life of a faithful man after God's own heart.

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.

Growing Up Amish by Ira Wagler

Growing up Amish by Ira Wagler
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Sad. Fascinating. Heavy. Intriguing.

I grew up visiting Amish country often and for 4 years of my early married life we lived in an area filled with Amish and Mennonite families. My family also had an Amish family that we were friends with and spent time in their home as I as growing up. I have always had an appreciation for the Amish community and enjoyed reading the occasional Amish fiction. However, all this said, I think our English views of the Amish community are shaped on quaint ideas of happy-ending fiction books and tourist interactions. Reading Growing Up Amish displays an accurate view of the average and ordinary life of the Amish. While I appreciated the life story of Ira Wagler, I set this book down with an overwhelming sadness. Honestly, after the first few chapters I wanted to put the book down because it was depressing. Yet at the same time the inside look at raw Amish life was so fascinating that I couldn't put it down. (Plus it was a review book and I needed to finish!)

I liked this book for it's inside look at real Amish life versus our quaint, tourist view. However, I feel that the end fell flat. It was an abrupt ending to a very dramatic and emotional story. If this had not been a review book, I would not have finished it. The reason I give it 3 stars is that if you are hooked on Amish fiction I think this would be a good dose of reality for you.

If you have lot of time to read and are curious about Amish life you would probably enjoy this book.

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This review book was provided courtesy of 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.

Jumping Through Fires by David Nasser

Jumping through Fires: The Gripping Story of One Man's Escape from Revolution to Redemption by David Nasser
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Short. Funny. Serious. Interesting.

Jumping Through Fires is a refreshing look back at the life - thus far - of David Nasser. From a young boy in Iran to a young man in the USA he reflects on God's grace in his life in a humorous, yet thought-provoking, way. It's a light read both in pages and in presentation despite the sobering stories David shares.

I really enjoyed reading this book and it took me only 2.5 hours to go from cover to cover. At once I was caught up in the intensity of life for this boy at the young age of 9 and sat in awe as I turned the pages to unravel God's amazing plan of grace in David's life. Not only is this the inspiring recapturing of the life of an exile and former Muslim, but also the amazing testament to God's perfect plans and timing. David's sharing doesn't just challenge us - especially those growing up as the average American - but also explains to us how grace connects to the daily life of a child, teenager, and adult.

I highly recommend this book to all teenagers and adults. Due to some intense accounts of events taking place in Iran, I don't recommend it for children. However, it is appropriate for 7th grade and older. This book would be a great way to kick of the school year for any teenager.

The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven by Kevin Malarkey

The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven by Kevin Malarkey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MOM'S REVIEW:

A true story about a father and son who survived a terrible car accident, although son Alex remained in a coma for two months afterward. Upon awaking, Alex shared some unexpected experiences of time spent with Jesus in Heaven. He also shared some personal insight on angels and their ministry.
Kevin and Alex share their faith journey; a journey that will stir in you a longing for your future home in heaven. This is a wonderful book making me wish that I could meet this family.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

In 2004, Kevin Malarkey and his six-year-old son, Alex, suffered an horrific car accident. The impact from the crash paralyzed Alex—and medically speaking, it was unlikely that he could survive. “I think Alex has gone to be with Jesus,” a friend told the stricken dad. But two months later, Alex awoke from a coma with an incredible story to share. Of events at the accident scene and in the hospital while he was unconscious. Of the angels that took him through the gates of heaven itself. Of the unearthly music that sounded just terrible to a six-year-old. And, most amazing of all . . . Of meeting and talking to Jesus. The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven is the true story of an ordinary boy’s most extraordinary journey. As you see heaven and earth through Alex’s eyes, you’ll come away with new insights on miracles, life beyond this world, and the power of a father’s love.

Without A Word by Jill Kelly

Without a Word by Jill Kelly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I grew up in NY and the Buffalo Bills were "my" team. I even went to got my Jim Kelly trading card autographed one time when I was about 12! So it was with great interest that I listened to this audio book.

First of all I really enjoyed the fact that Jill Kelly read her own book. The vocal expression was wonderful and it was easier to listen to knowing that how she said what she said, was how she meant it. I also enjoyed hearing the voices of Jim, Erin, and Cameron as well.

Jill - and the whole family, really - were so open and vulnerable in this book and their story is amazing! It's a testament to God's amazing love and goodness. I was touched by their honesty, inspired by their passion, and encouraged by their journey to the Savior.

If you want to more about the Kelly family or just simple want a good biography to listen to, this is a perfect one to select.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

“Your son has been diagnosed with a fatal genetic disease called Krabbe Leukodystrophy. There is no treatment and no cure. I will do everything I can to help your son. But the disease has already progressed so fast that I don’t think he will live to see his second birthday.” With these words, pro football Hall of Famer Jim Kelly and his wife, Jill, were catapulted from a seemingly fairy-tale life of celebrity into a world of private struggle and medical uncertainty. What the public didn’t know, however, was that behind the scenes lurked more than a family’s pain at the dire prognosis of their only son. Hunter’s illness exposed the troubled depths of a marriage that had long been shadowed by uncertainties of its own. For eight years the future was unwritten, with Hunter defying all medical odds and his parents pursuing every means to save his life. Meanwhile, Jim and Jill’s marriage continued to fail yet was held together only by their love for their kids and their determined hope for Hunter. Though Hunter’s illness prevented him from ever speaking a word, his will and unconditional love spoke volumes to his family and all who knew him. And in time, the light of Hunter’s silent, all-too-brief life shone into the darkened corners of Jim and Jill’s lives, leading them to authentic faith, a restored relationship, and the establishment of a foundation that is reaching other families with terminally ill children around the world. Without a Word transparently shares it all: The heartbreaking moments . . . and those Jill would love to relive. Moments that add up to a time filled with unimaginable pain . . . and indescribable joy. Moments that silently transformed the hearts of every member of her family . . . and changed their lives forever. Moments that may even change your heart and life, too.

BOOK DETAILS:

Published by: Oasis Audio
ISBN:9781598597943
Price: $25.99

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Oasis Audio but the opinion expressed is my own.

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Choosing To See, by Mary Beth Chapman {Giveaway}

(GIVEAWAY DETAILS AT BOTTOM OF POST)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Grab a box of tissues before you even crack open the cover of this book! You will need them from the first page to the last as you glimpse the heart of Mary Beth Chapman and the journey of tragedy she and the Chapman family have traveled.

Choosing To See is a raw look at the grief and pain of loosing a child in such a tragic way. It is also the honest look at the life and testimony of God's grace in Mary Beth's life as well as the family as a whole. I appreciated how honest she was with her readers. Most likely she will face some criticism for some of what she shares due to her openness, but I praise her for showing us that life is not perfect and that it's not of ourselves, but only of God's strength, mercy, and grace that our lives amount to anything. When I set this book down I felt like I knew Mary Beth as a friend rather than like I just had an inside look at the life of a celebrity.

The end of the book is a pouring out of posts from her blog since the accident. For the distanced reader it's a lot to wade through, but I must say that I am glad she was real. She didn't try to tie pretty bow and make it seem like a fairy-tale ending. Mary Beth instead shares how God meets us where we are even in the depth of grief.

For someone who wants to know more about the Chapmans, the life of Maria, or dealing with the death of a child, I would recommend you read this book. No matter why you read it you will end it with a large dose of encouragement. It's the story of winter moments in life and how spring does come again...

BOOK OVERVIEW:

From the beginning, Mary Beth Chapman's life was not how she planned. All she wanted was a calm, peaceful life of stability and control. Instead, God gave her an award-winning singer/songwriter husband, crazy schedules, and a houseful of creatively rambunctious children. Most difficult of all, God's plans for her also included tragedy.

In Choosing to SEE, Mary Beth unveils her struggle to allow God to write the story of her life, both the happy chapters and the tragic ones. And as the story unfolds, she's been forced to wrestle with some of life's biggest questions: Where is God when things fall apart? Why does God allow terrible things to happen? How can I survive hard times?

No matter where you find yourself in your own life story, you will treasure the way Mary Beth shows that even in the hard times, there is hope if you choose to SEE.

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Available September 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This book was provided for review courtesy of Revell.

 

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GIVEAWAY!

I am giving away 1 copy of this book.
Leave a comment on this post to be entered into the drawing.
A winner will be chosen on September 12, 2010.
Please click here to see entry rules.

The Making of a Missionary by Jay & Sunny McLaughlin

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Jay and Sunny McLaughlin bring the mission field into your home through this book. You are able to read first hand about the ups and downs, the joys and the dangers of serving God. And most of all, the McLaughlins share the amazing acts of God as they watch Him move in the hearts of many.

I enjoyed reading this book for the frank and honest approach it takes on missions. It's not sugar coated, but rather raw experiences of what missionaries - especially in a third world country - face. I also was blessed to read the amazing accounts of how they visibly saw God work in mighty ways - ways we in America don't normally experience. This book also holds a great amount of practical information, help, and encouragement for anyone considering entering missions. It is a pre-missions handbook so to speak.

I have to say that I would love all the teens in our church to read this book because I think it would be a great eye-opener to them. However, there are some doctrinal differences in this book and while I recommend this read, I think that one needs to be aware that they may not agree with everything that is said. All that said, I still say that this book can and is a great one for perspective missionaries to be reading and I especially appreciated and respected Jay's exhortation on asking yourself why you want to be a missionary.

If for no other reason, I would recommend reading this book just because it opens your eyes to the real challenges our missionaries face even today.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

After seeing the lack of knowledge in many churches, regarding missions, Jay McLaughlin was prompted by his supporters to write a book on the subject. In The Making of a Missionary readers will see life as a missionary first hand, through McLaughlin’s years of experience. These true-life examples place your mind in the middle of the dangers, blessings, miracles, failures, successes, arrest, escapes, joys, and rewards lived out almost daily.

For the person who is hunting for deeper mission knowledge, this book also categorizes pertinent subjects, such as how to prepare for a mission trip, how to know if you are qualified, and what crucial steps must be taken. Learn the importance of licenses, school, police and shot records, driving record, and any specialty training that you have. Where can you find medical and dental help oversees? What will the local officials expect of you when you arrive? The list goes on and on but is very much needed to help those who are called to be better prepared and make a difference for the Lord. It will help the people they are trying to serve, and those they serve with.

AUTHOR BIO:

Jay McLaughlin was a late-comer to Christianity, who crawled out of the world and started living for Christ at age 43. In 1984 he and his wife Sunny went out as missionaries to Mbale, Uganda. After some success and some real near-death experiences, their trip ended with a hair-raising escape that exposed a corrupt organization for what they were. They again went out in 1986 to Mombasa, Kenya for three months training. From there they went to Nairobi for three months of missionary excitements, language school, and slum work, before returning home with a fresh calling from God for Jinja, Uganda.

They spent the next five years studying and serving in many different areas in the church, undergoing various training groups and schooling, until the leadership saw it was time to ordain Jay as a pastor in 1990. After that the McLaughlin's put together a great mission team to handle things connected to their mission. He and Sunny prepared themselves to go out long-term to Jinja and start a mission base from scratch. Their life has been filled with many Christian-Indiana-Jones-type stories, with the miracles, dangers, failures, successes, sorrows, blessings, laughter, and tears of pain over the death of so many children and adults from AIDS. Jay’s story, expressed through his book The Making of a Missionary provides proof that God does provide for those who love Him.

Jay and his wife currently live in Corpus Christi, TX, where he leads the Silver Saints group at Calvary Chapel Coastland.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of WinePress Publishing. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.

The Heart Mender by Andy Andrews

The Heart Mender: A Story of Second Chances by Andy Andrews

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

The phrase "Don't judge a book by it's cover!" is very fitting for me and this book. For some reason, even though I was asked to review this book by Thomas Nelson, I just had a hard time picking it up and starting it. However, after the first chapter or two I could barely put it down!

This amazing book is broken into three sections with the main story being in the second section. As I followed Andy's journey from the present to the past and back again I was intrigued, breathless, curious, and fascinated. The fact that this story is real is almost mind boggling! It is an easy to read book that will have you spellbound whether you like history or not.

The Heart Mender is a mix of romance, mystery, faith, intrigue, suspense, and history. It is the perfect book to read on the beach this summer...or anywhere, really!

BOOK OVERVIEW:

While digging up a withering wax myrtle tree beside his waterfront home on the Gulf coast, author Andy Andrews unearths a rusted metal container filled with Nazi artifacts and begins an intriguing investigation that unlocks an unspoken past that took place in his backyard . . . literally.

In 1942, as the country gears up for a full-scale commitment to WWII, German subs are dispatched to the Gulf of Mexico to sink U.S. vessels carrying goods and fuel. While taking a late-night walk, Helen Mason—widowed by war—discovers the near-lifeless body of a German sailor. Enraged at the site of Josef Landermann's uniform, Helen is prepared to leave him to die when an unusual phrase, faintly uttered, changes her mind.

Set in a period simmering with anger and suspicion The Heart Mender offers the very real chronicle of a small town preparing itself for the worst the world has to offer. As cargo from torpedoed ships begins to wash up on the beach, Josef and Helen must reconcile their pasts to create a future.

Blending his unique style of historical accuracy with unparalleled storytelling, New York Times best-selling author Andy Andrews offers a tale of war, faith, and forgiveness illuminating the one principle that frees the human spirit.

Previously released as Island of Saints. Now includes a Reader's Guide and a Where are They Now? section.

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This book was provided for review courtesy of Thomas Nelson Publishing. The review is my own thoughts and opinions.

Pearl Buck In China: Journey To The Good Earth by Hilary Spurling

Pearl Buck in China: Journey to The Good Earth by Hilary Spurling

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

This is a unique story of a brave woman who endured a hard life. While it's a fascinating story, the book tends to be a hard read. I listened to the audio version and had a hard enough time just getting through that, let alone physically sitting to read it. It's not so much Pearl's story that is so hard to read, but rather they way it is presented through it's original print version. Although, I must admit that this audio version is not the most easy to listen to either. The narration is in an English accent and somewhat dry. It's not so much the story content but rather the presentation of this book - both audio and print formats - that make me give it a 2 star rating.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

One of the twentieth century’s most extraordinary Americans, Pearl Buck was the first person to make China accessible to the West. She recreated the lives of ordinary Chinese people in The Good Earth, an overnight worldwide bestseller in 1932, later a blockbuster movie. Buck went on to become the first American woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature. Long before anyone else, she foresaw China’s future as a superpower, and she recognized the crucial importance for both countries of China’s building a relationship with the United States. As a teenager she had witnessed the first stirrings of Chinese revolution, and as a young woman she narrowly escaped being killed in the deadly struggle between Chinese Nationalists and the newly formed Communist Party. Pearl wrote about the realities of the only world she knew in The Good Earth. It was one of the last things she did before being finally forced out of China to settle for the first time in the United States. She was unknown and penniless with a failed marriage behind her, a disabled child to support, no prospects, and no way of telling that The Good Earth would sell tens of millions of copies. It transfixed a whole generation of readers just as Jung Chang’s Wild Swans would do more than half a century later. No Westerner had ever written anything like this before, and no Chinese had either. Buck was the forerunner of a wave of Chinese Americans from Maxine Hong Kingston to Amy Tan. Until their books began coming out in the last few decades, her novels were unique in that they spoke for ordinary Asian people— “translating my parents to me,” said Hong Kingston, “and giving me our ancestry and our habitation.” As a phenomenally successful writer and civil-rights campaigner, Buck did more than anyone else in her lifetime to change Western perceptions of China. In a world with its eyes trained on China today, she has much to tell us about what lies behind its astonishing reawakening.

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This digital review copy was provided courtesy of Oasis Audio Reviewers Program and in now way affected my thoughts or opinions on this book.

Toward the Goal: The Kaka Story by Jeremy V. Jones

Toward the Goal: The Kaka Story by Jeremy V. Jones

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

This is the story of the great soccer player, Kaka. Any kid - probably 10 & up - who likes soccer will enjoy reading about this great player who also is a great testimony.

It's a great book, but I think it's hard to follow if you are not familiar with soccer. That said, the book is easy reading and has color pictures that help bring life to this amazing story.

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This review copy was provided by Zonderkids.

Life, In Spite of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson

Life, In Spite of Me: Finding Extraordinary Hope After Making a Fatal Choice by Kristen Jane Anderson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Life, In Spite of Me is the story - the testimony! - of Kristen Anderson and God's amazing hand in her life despite her attempted suicide.

I read this book in two hours and hungrily turned each page as I cried in awe of God's amazing grace. Kristen wrote honestly with tenderness that not only shares her story, but touches you in whatever place you are in right now. I greatly appreciated the openness and the vulnerability with which Kristen shared her story.

The book was well written and presented the hard truth in a kind manner. Kristen and Tricia created a book that draws attention and then focuses it onto the Lord. The story along with the "personal letters" at the end of each chapter make this an amazingly encouraging read and I would highly suggest it to anyone struggling with their life.

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You can visit Kristen’s website here and you can watch her interview on Oprah here.  This is one book that will change your perspective whether your are struggling with depression or not.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of LitFuse Publicity.

Misconception by Shannon & Paul Morell with Angela Hunt

Misconception: One Couple's Journey from Embryo Mix-Up to Miracle Baby by Paul Morell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

The title really states what the book is all about. It's the emotional story of two families caught in the effect of human error.

This story held some twists and turns that would make one think it had to be fiction. However, this is a true story despite the hurt and pain caused. I appreciated the honesty with which Shannon shared their journey to overcome something bad in order to enjoy the blessing. It is such an amazing encouragement to read of the sacrifice of one family for another so that life could be celebrated.

In this audio version I greatly enjoyed the narrator and the high quality reading. It was easy to listen to and engaging.

While I don't necessarily agree with the views and beliefs presented in this book about IFV, it was still a fascinating biography and testimony to the sanctity of life. It's a book you won't want to put down/turn off until you've read the last page or heard the last track.

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This audio book was provided for review courtesy of christianaudio

I Will Carry You: The Sacred Dance of Grief and Joy by Angie Smith

I Will Carry You: The Sacred Dance of Grief and Joy by Angie Smith

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Grab a box of tissues.

For those who followed Angie Smith and the story of Audrey unfold on her blog this book feels like a chat with Angie over a nice warm drink. And for those who are new to the Smith's dance with joy and grief you will quickly fall in love with this family and their testimony.

Angie puts into words the thoughts and emotions of a mother who clings to hope while grieving, lives life fully while preparing for the worst, and who begs God for a miracle all the while praising Him no matter what. I Will Carry You is the story of the life of Audrey and the huge impact this small little girl had on her family and on the world. It will leave you counting your blessings, living with abandon, and celebrating life - no matter how long or how short.

I was touched by Angie's honest and vulnerability with her readers and her simple, yet profound, explanations of what her dance was and continues to be like. I have been touched by the music of Selah for years and since 2008 even more so with the music being backed up by authentic lives. Though their road has not been easy, they have blessed many lives through their tears and their joy in the time of great grief.

Whether you are a Mom or not, this book will have you crying and rejoicing all at the same time. Both Angie's writing and Todd's chapter from a man's perspective will be an encouragement in your life.

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Thank you to B&H Publishing Group for providing the review copy.

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In the Presence of My Enemies by Gracia Burnham

In the Presence of My Enemies by Gracia Burnham

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I remember hearing updates about the plight of the Burnhams on the radio through out their capture, and while my heart ached for them and their children, I did not have a full understanding of what was going on. Listening to this audio book of Gracia's book In the Presence of My Enemies brought their trial to life for me in my own home. I was horrified at what they had to go through, broken-hearted for their children, frustrated with the lack of action taken to rescue them, and completely overwhelmed and convicted by the godly way in which the Burnhams responded in this journey.

Martin and Gracia Burnham were a living example of what it meant to live for Christ and to count it all joy when we face trials. Their story ended with such bitter-sweetness, yet through it all God was glorified.

This audio book was well narrated and easy to listen to and follow while working around the house or exercising. This book, audio or print, will keep you on the edge of your seat, soften your heart to the experiences of others, and challenge you to walk the extra mile in your own walk with Christ.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of the christianaudio Reviewers Program.

Cole…I Love You to the Moon and Back: A Family’s Journey with Childhood Cancer, by Aaron Dean Ruotsala

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have wondered how I would handle being told my child is sick. Very sick. In listening to this audio version of the book Cole...I Love You to the Moon and Back, I can only hope that I would respond with the same amount of love, praise, and faith with which the Ruotsala family did.

This book walks you through 8 weeks of life as a young family battles terminal cancer in their oldest child - three-year-old Cole. Despite the incredible pain of loosing a child they praised God for His strength and His faithfulness to them in what has to be one of the most painful trials of life. Their testimony brings such glory to God and of His love for us.

God knew the number of days that Cole's life would last and He used those few fleeting years to touch lives in more ways than many of us adults can even dream of doing. Sometimes the biggest blessings come in the smallest of packages.

While it is a sad story, it is also an amazing story to read and was such a comfort and encouragement to me. It helped me look beyond my own plans for life and remember to live in the moment...the hear and now...for tomorrow has no guarantees.

Cole...I Love You to the Moon and Back is written by Aaron Ruotsala, the father of Cole, and is a great way to adjust and re-focus your perspective on what it truly important in life. Their story of joy and pain will inspire you to live for Christ and to love those around you. You may shed a tear or two...but you will also walk away with hope.

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This audio book was provided courtesy of Oasis Audio.

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For more excellent audio books, please visit my audio book reviews.

Hero Of The Pacific: The Life Of Marine Legend John Basilone by James Brady

Hero of the Pacific: The Life of Marine Legend John Basilone by James Brady

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Book Overview:
"From the summer of 1943 to early 1945, John Basilone was one of the most famous and admired people in America. As the first enlisted man to be awarded the Medal of Honor in World War II, for extraordinary bravery under fire at Guadalcanal, he toured the nation with movie stars, shared podiums with mayors and governors, shook the hands of thousands of citizens, and was even rumored to have made a romantic connection with a beautiful young actress.

Why would a man who had proven his courage beyond any doubt, who had gone above and beyond the call of duty, and was reaping the rewards of his sacrifice beg his commanding officer to break with tradition and send a Medal of Honor winner back into combat? Legendary columnist James Brady explores this and many other puzzling questions in this thrilling and surprising biography."

For those who like to know more about war stories and battle history they would enjoy this biography of John Basilone. It is a well read story on the audio book and I enjoyed Gardner's narration. While this book is a fascinating account, I did not like some of the language in it. I have an appreciation for biographies, but this one didn't grab me. However, if you are a history buff and want to more about war heroes, this could be a good book for you.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Oasis Audio.