A Gospel Primer by Milton Vincent

 

A Gospel Primer for Christians: Learning to See the Glories of God's Love by Milton Vincent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Refreshing. Uplifting. Simple. Deep.

Just as it's title suggests, this simple book is meant to teach adults and teens of any age the simple, yet profound truth of the gospel on a daily basis. It is broken into four sections, one of which is Vincent's testimony of what brought him to write this book. The other three are the gospel in various forms that you can read through quite easily in one sitting. While this book is certainly beneficial as a one-time read, it would be even better as a daily or weekly aid in helping you to refocus your thinking on the many glorious truths of the gospel and what they mean to you today - not just "yesterday" as a new believer.

I personally really enjoyed this book and it's simplicity. I could read it quickly yet soak in the rich depth. If you are looking for a book that will help you understand the glorious and daily implications of the gospel in your life then I would highly recommend this book for you to read. It's a simple beginning to an endless topic.

Tell Your Time by Amy Lynn Andrews

Tell Your Time: How To Manage Your Schedule So You Can Live Fulfilled by Amy Lynn Andrews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Simple. Short. Easy. Practical. Hands-on. Inspiring. Helpful.

As an organization freak I can honestly say I have read dozens of books on time management. And I have even read many books about reading books about time management. Yes...I have issues! However, setting my "issues" aside, I must say that THIS book is the BEST book I have ever read about the topic of, solution to, and aid for time management.

Hands down. Without a doubt.

It is short and sweet - only 30 pages! - and it's extremely simple. So simple that it only took me 3 hours to read the book, print off the four resource/tool pages, and complete the action steps. I really liked how I could fill out the downloadable worksheets as I read through the book making it all one smooth process. This book sticks to the basic principles and breaks them down into four easy and manageable steps. There are no long chapters waxing eloquently about what we should do, but rather step-by-step instruction, encouragement, and personal example of what to do. Whether you are a fellow "freak" like myself, or someone who hates time management, you will be encouraged and enabled by this book to become more managed in your time.

I highly recommend and challenge you to put down the big, thick books you're reading and pick-up this short book and see some results! Find your freedom in time!

You can purchase your own copy through Amy’s website or through Amazon.com.

Amish Proverbs by Suzanne Woods Fisher

UPDATE 8/25/10 – Congrats to Jody who won this book!

This is a long review post!  First off, let me tell you that I am giving away a copy of this charming little book!  Please leave a comment at the bottom of this post to be entered into the giveaway!  (A winner will be drawn tonight using Random.org)

And now…with out further delay, here is my review and below that you will find a cool contest opportunity!

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MY REVIEW:

This book is simply sweet.

You can't help but become lost in the calming pictures and thought-provoking proverbs that Suzanne Woods Fisher has put together in this beautiful and small sized coffee table book. This is a perfect gift for someone who appreciates the simply side of life or anyone who enjoys the relaxing atmosphere of the country.

My favorite proverb featured in this adorable little book is:

"A task takes as long as it takes."

I get caught up so often in trying to finish as much as possible and usually end up frustrating myself. This simple little phrase is a wonderful reminder that I have no need to get discouraged but rather should enjoy the time that the task takes.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Simplify Your Life with Amish Wisdom
Insights into the Amish lifestyle of peace, simplicity and contentment

Spend enough time with the Amish, as author Suzanne Woods Fisher has, and you’ll hear them repeat a catchy turn of phrase or short words of wisdom, like “Good character like good soup is usually homemade,” or “Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience.” Suspended in these phrases are age-old lessons about how to live wisely and please God. Reiterated day after day, the proverbs are learned by heart and help guide the lives of the Amish, reminding them of what’s truly important.

Fisher has spent a great deal of time with the Amish and has collected more than 200 proverbs that uncover the rich heritage, folklore, faith, values, history, and essence of the Plain People, which she shares in her new book
Amish Proverbs.

These proverbs cover all aspects of life, from finances to faith to family, as well as overcoming life’s frustrations. Serving as teaching tools and maxims for practical living, they're not just for the Amish. Proverbs help point us all toward wisdom, toward good judgment, toward God’s teachings. They're for anyone who seeks God's wisdom and truth for everyday circumstances.

Some of the proverbs that readers will find in Amish Proverbs include:
o "It is better to give others a piece of your heart than a piece of your mind."
o "You are only poor when you want more than you have."
o "A child can read a parent’s character before he can read the alphabet."
o "Bibles that are coming apart usually belong to people who are not."
o "Those who fear the future are likely to fumble the present."
o "Kissing wears out, cooking don’t."
o "If you sense your faith is unraveling, go back to where you dropped the thread of obedience."
o "You only live once, but if you work it right, once is enough."
o "A smile is a curve that can straighten out a lot of things."

Ranging from the simple to the profound, from the serious to the humorous, these sayings will stick with readers through life's joys and sorrows and bring some of the Amish wisdom to everyday life.

With beautiful full-color photos throughout, Amish Proverbs is the perfect gift for any occasion.

AUTHOR BIO:

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the CBA bestselling author of The Choice, The Waiting, Amish Peace, and Amish Proverbs. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, W. D. Benedict, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Benedict eventually became publisher of Christianity Today magazine. Suzanne is the host of a radio show called Amish Wisdom and her work has appeared in many magazines. She lives in California.

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Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life. They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet.

CONTEST OPPORTUNITY!

 

Suzanne's Amish Proverbs just hit the shelves. To celebrate she's giving away a KINDLE and throwing a party! Let the fun begin. See below for info and links.

Find out more about the book, Suzanne and the blog tour here. Enter Suzanne Woods Fisher's Simple Wisdom KINDLE Giveaway!

One Grand Prize winner will receive a Kindle preloaded with Suzanne Woods Fisher titles. The Prize Pack (valued at over $205.00) includes:

* A brand new KINDLE, Free 3G, 6", Latest Generation

* Amish Peace by Suzanne Woods Fisher

* The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher

To enter, simply click on the icons below to fill out the entry form, then tell 5 or more friends about the contest. Oh, and enter soon! Winner will be announced on September 1st.

  Join Suzanne for a Wrap-up Party on September 1st! She’ll be announcing the winner of the Simple Wisdom KINDLE Giveaway, chatting with readers, and giving away copies of Amish Proverbs and The Choice! Be sure to join us on Wednesday , September 1st at 8PM EST at Suzanne’s Author Page Be sure to check out the blog tour here or purchase a copy of Amish Proverbs: Words of Wisdom from the Simple Life!

The Pastor’s Wife by Jennifer AlLee

The Pastor's Wife by Jennifer AlLee

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Okay Ladies, here's the deal about this book...

It is a fun, witty, and charming story of forgiveness and reconciliation between a Pastor and his wife. And it has one wonderfully appealing cover, too! I enjoyed the simple story line and the unexpected twist it took. The characters were likable and the story brought to life the real challenges of a ministry couple. It was a fun and touching read that I enjoyed especially since I am a Pastor's wife.

However, while I liked the overall book, there were some details that I didn't appreciate as much. I hold to some differing theological beliefs than what where conveyed in this story and I thought that there were some points that could have been stronger. Also, I recognize that this book is intended for adult woman, but I know that many teens read adult fiction and so on that note I would caution teen girls not to read this book due to one conversation that takes place. It's not that the conversation was wrong, but simply not appropriate for teens.

The author’s writing is enjoyable and is an entertaining read, but this book may not be for everyone or may be one that you just borrow.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Abingdon Press, but the opinions expressed our strictly my own.

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Other Books for Pastor’s Wives:

• From One Ministry Wife To Another by Susie Hawkins (readornotread.blogspot.com)
• You Can Still Wear Cute Shoes, by Lisa McKay (readornotread.blogspot.com)

How Do You Tuck In a Superhero? by Rachel Balducci

How Do You Tuck In a Superhero?: And Other Delightful Mysteries of Raising Boys by Rachel Balducci

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Author Rachel Balducci is no longer surprised when she has to say things in her house like: "I am not a wrestling mat." "Stay off the roof." "You can try to invent a jet-pack, but I will not buy the fuel for it." Or, "Wear something nice—like a t-shirt with no stains on it."

As the mother of five boys, Balducci has her hands full, which makes for some hilarious stories. She shares more than 50 of those tales--from finding her boys climbing through windows, making traps for catching bad guys or rooting through the refrigerator, ever hungry--in her delightful new book How Do You Tuck in a Superhero?: And Other Delightful Mysteries of Raising Boys.

Readers will laugh out loud at the antics she experiences on a daily basis, as she pulls back the curtain on what a life filled to the brim with boys is like for one woman. From the curious scenes she catches her boys in, to the entertaining conversations she overhears, to the unimaginable rules she's been forced to make, this laugh-out-loud celebration joyfully explores the sweet and wild side of boyhood.

MY REVIEW:

Some books you read to learn more about a subject, and then others you read to gain insight and advice on the problems you are facing. And then there is a book you read for pure enjoyment that keeps you laughing for days and weeks after you have turned the last page. This is one of those books.

How Do You Tuck In A Superhero? will make you laugh whether you have all boys, all girls, or a mix of both. This lighthearted look at parenting will encourage you and remind you to take one day at a time and enjoy each one for what it is. They fly by to fast...just like superheroes.

I appreciated Rachel's light approach that packed real life lessons, laughter, and a shot in the arm to any weary mother. This fun book is broken into short stories in short chapters to enable a quick read in the midst of chaos. Even if you don't normally like to read you will love this book! And you will laugh!

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Queen Of The Castle by Lynn Bowen Walker

Queen of the Castle: 52 Weeks of Encouragement for the Uninspired, Domestically Challenged or Just Plain Tired Homemaker by Lynn Bowen Walker

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Queen Of The Castle is the perfect book for a woman who wants some inspiration and encouragement in the area of homemaking. Whether you are domestically challenged, or just simply looking for some refreshing ways to spice up your skills around the house, Lynn Bowen Walker has written a book for you.

Walker has divided the book into 52 short chapters that contain fun tid-bits like a new word to learn, a short devotional/encouragement reading, quotes, prayer prompts, and a great variety of advice. Every 5 chapters are followed with a Chocolate Break where she gives a yummy recipe containing chocolate, and who doesn't enjoy chocolate?! This book covers a wide range of topics about homemaking; from holiday ideas to schedules and chores, organization to housework and meals - Lynn talks about it all.

I enjoyed reading a chapter of this book each Saturday to encourage me for the upcoming week. While you could read it all in one sitting, it is enjoyable to read like a weekly dose and use the tips as a way to slowly tweak your household skills. Queen Of The Castle is fun and easy to read and I found it to be the perfect amount of encouragement for each week.

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A Mom’s Ultimate Book of Lists by Michelle LaRowe

 A Mom's Ultimate Book of Lists by Michelle LaRowe

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Do you wonder about what baby products you really need?

Are you wondering how your baby, toddler, or preschooler is doing developmentally, but you can't remember where you put that list you got from the pediatrician's office?

Have you ever questioned your child's diet and want to know how much of each food group they really need?

Are you going on a trip and feel like you might be forgetting something?

Do you wish you had a list of the top resources to read for the various stages of motherhood rather than sift through all the options a Google search offers?

Or maybe you are dealing with what seems to be one of the BIG questions for moms of young kids: how much sleep does my child need?

A Mom's Ultimate Book of Lists has the answers for all of these questions and many more. Michelle LaRowe, former nanny and current mother, has made it much easier to find the answers to our daily questions in motherhood by writing a resource book for Moms. From your first moments of pregnancy through the first day of Kindergarten, you will find yourself reaching for this book to help you figure things out and make the best choice in your parenting journey.

Do not let the idea of a book of lists scare you away from adding this to your own library shelf. It's more than just a book of dry lists - it's full of encouragement, quick mom-to-mom tips, and fun. From what to stock your car with, to feeding a picky eater, and back to age appropriate chores, it will quickly become your faithful companion.

I appreciated the readability of this book seeing that Mom's do not always have much time to research an answer to a question or concern. A Mom's Ultimate Book of Lists is easy to read in brief moments of time or browse through during afternoon nap time. The table of contents is organized easy to use to find a list you need for the current moment. The only thing I wish it had was an index of topic or items. However, I feel that you can still search well enough to make it a user-friendly book.

This book is perfect for a mother-to-be, new mom, or a "second family" mom. It also is a great resource for any mom with children from 0 to 4 years of age.

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The review copy was courtesy of Revell.

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

50 Ways To Feel Great Today

50 Ways to Feel Great Today: Keys to Beating Stress, Worry, and the Blues by David Biebel

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

We live in a fast paced society where stress seems to be the normal. However, just because it may be normal does not mean that it is good for you. So how do you beat it? How do you slow down and de-stress?

50 Ways To Feel Great Today is full of easy tips to minimize the stress and blues in your life. It is an easy-reading book with short, stand-alone chapters. Each chapter covers one way to feel great today and offers explanation, a personal example or two, and information or resources to help you further. Rather than just tell you to "free your inner artist", the book includes a link to an easy way you can do it from the comfort of your own home.

This book would be a great one to use as a spring board to doing new things this year. Why not buy the book and do one thing each week? You would even have two grace weeks!

I enjoyed the randomness of the book and the creativity it sparked in my own mind. While, there were several things that the authors said that I do not agree with 100%, I appreciate very much the overall idea of this book. This is not a book to cure depression or the fix that will make you feel better, but rather a good book for those who are looking to add spice to their day that has been forgotten in life's busy routine.

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Available December 2009 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

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Want more Christian Living books to read?  Check these out!

101 Simple & Thoughtful Ways To Give This Christmas Away

Give This Christmas Away by Matthew West

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Are you overwhelmed by your gift list this year? Are you frustrated by people you just don't know what to get? Are you feeling blue that your Christmas plans are not going the way you expected they would?

If you answered yes to any or all of these questions then you need to take an afternoon with a cup of hot chocolate and this little, easy-reading, yet heavy-hitting book. You will walk away encouraged and challenged to give Christmas away this year in ways you have never thought of before.

Is it paying for the coffee of the person in line behind you? Making someone a meal just because? Writing a letter to someone before it's too late?

Matthew West gives you 101 ways to give this Christmas away and I'm sure that as you read you will be inspired with your own spin off ideas and thoughts.

This is a great book to read and then set on the coffee table each year to remind us to think outside the box when everyone else is thinking about what's in the box.

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Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.

To Mom, The Keeper Of The Zoo

To Mom, the Keeper of the Zoo: A Collection of Thoughts on Motherhood by Maureen Wright

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A cute book that you can read page by page for a quick dose of encouragement in the zoo of mothering. I enjoyed her humorous, yet thought provoking short tales. There are a few poems and Bible verses tucked in and around the daily stories as well for a variety of reading choices. A good book to give a mom for a bit of comic relief!