365 FUN FAMILY ACTIVITIES Perpetual Calendar ISBN 978-1-60260-172-7 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Have kids? Have bored kids? Have kids who spend too much time watching
TV or playing video games? Too much time on the cell? Are you just plain out of ideas? Then check out this perpetual calendar.
Every day offers a different activity the family can do together.
Some are fun, some education or informational. March 24: Draw your
children's attention to people with disabilities, whether physical or mental. Plan a family activity to reach out to someone
who is “differently-abled” in your neighborhood, church, or school. September 16: Go for a walk and pick up
different rocks. Sort them into igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. December 26: Make a scrapbook page about Christmas
using leftover wrapping paper, cards and pictures.
Bring the family together with fun things to learn and do. Would make a
great gift for the family.
VIRTUAL INTEGRITY Faithfully Navigating the Brave New Web By Daniel
J Lohrmann ISBN 978-1-58743-234-7 Brazos Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
We're solid, we have standards and we live by them—in the real
world. But what happens when we get online? Who wouldl know if we surf “those” sites. And my Avatar isn't real
so why not do all the things in a virtual world, I wouldn't do in real life? My online screen name doesn't really connect
with who I am, so when I get ticked, I spout language I would never use in real like.
We have become an online world and with that world, too often, we've
separated our integrity to the real and the virtual world. Anything goes in the virtual world. What we don't seem to “get”
is that how we act online, can and will influence how we act in “real” life.
We've all heard about marriages breaking up over online porn or relationships
that get acted out in real life. How long if you're unfaithful or dishonest online will it come home to roost? Potential employees
have lost jobs because of online postings. (Employers DO check.)
VIRTUAL INTEGRITY takes us from what is to what can be the future. The
author, an expert in his field, takes us beyond security for ID theft to the more vital integrity theft---and this we do to
ourselves. But there are ways to keep ourselves people of integrity and it starts with commitment. This book offers
any number of practical ways to secure our ID, ensure our children's safety and keep our selves faithful to our faith and
family.
An excellent book with lots of practical suggestions, helps and links.
TRESSPASSERS WILL BE BAPTIZED The Unordained Memoir of a Preacher's
Daughter By Elizabeth Emerson Hancock ISBN 978-1-59995-708-1 Center Street/Hachette Book Group Reviewer Cynthia
Hickey
Growing up Southern. Growing up Baptist. Growing up Southern Baptist.
What a combination! There’s no other way that’s as fun and wholesome as growing up GRITS (Girls Raised in the
South).
TRESPASSERS WILL BE BAPTIZED is the memoir of Elizabeth Hancock’s,
detailing the riots and trials of being the “perfect” preacher’s kid. Using real accounts from her childhood,
Hancock presents a hilarious coming of age story that is much more than growing up. It’s growing in the Lord as only
a child can see it.
How can a girl be perfect when she has a daughter that won’t speak,
unless it entails “preaching” to her toys? How does a child question life without sounding “sassy.”
With quirky, true-to-life people, TRESPASSERS WILL BE BAPTIZED is a joy to read. Laugh out loud funny. True and honest, as
seen through the eyes of an innocent child.
Having grown up Southern Baptist myself, with a little Presbyterian and
Church of God thrown in, I enjoyed this book immensely. I had two uncles who were pastors and could completely relate. For
anyone who is searching, or just wants a laugh, this is a curl up with a cup of soda book. Be prepared to laugh your heart
out.
REFLECTIONS OF GOD'S HOLY LAND A Personal Journey Through Israel By
Eva Marie Everson & Miriam Feinberg Vomaosh ISBN 978-0-8499-1956-5 Thomas Nelson
Like Liz Curtis Higg's personal journey through Scotland MY HEART’S
IN THE LOWLANDS, REFLECTIONS OF GOD'S HOLY LAND is Everson's moving and descriptive journey through Israel. The difference?
This is God's anointed land where every rock, mountain and stream has Biblical history.
REFLECTIONS OF GOD'S HOLY LAND uses a mix of stunning photos, scripture,
legends and personal reflections to draw in the reader.
Pg. 96: My senses—physical and spiritual—have come alive
in ways I didn't know possible. My eyes and ears are treated to a wonderland of sights and sounds. My soul is stirred to a
particular plane, understanding worship and its best and its worst.
Each place she visits, Everson describes the landscapes in detail as
she shares with the reader her physical highs and lows, emotional responses and spiritual insights until the reader sees and
feels the experience. The reader comes away with a deep sense of awe and worship. God is real. He does move in history. And,
He cares for me.
DEEPER Living the the reality of God's love By Debbie Alsdorf ISBN
978-0-8007-3215-8 Revell
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Over the years, I've probably read hundreds of inspirational books, many
of which have offered new insights or took me back to basics. DEEPER, the story of Debbie's faith walk from the wife of a
pastor to unexpected divorce to healing as she got real with God, is one that had so much to offer I kept pen and paper handy.
How hard we try to be enough, be accepted, work hard, be a good person.
Debbie points out what should be obvious to those of us who claim the name of Christ, we are not enough. We will never be
enough. If we could be enough in and of ourselves, we wouldn't need Jesus. Knowing that is a relief.
Makes the difference in application: Pg. 91 It's not what you know that
makes a difference, it's the choices you make based on what you know and believe.
Pg 152 Even though we are part of His glorious plan, we are still under
construction. (Why do I have to learn this over and over?)
Pg 154 Believing we have value is a faith choice. ...It is recognizing
a value that is not based on conditions but in God and God alone.
Pg 199 He (God) knows me. He protects me. He made me. He values
me.
Believing these principles leads me important choices. Taking His
side.
Loving what He loves and hating what He hates. Choosing to live
differently.
Like Debbie, we often live a Christian life on what we think others expect,
rather than get real with God, recognizing our value, His love for us and loving and living for Him. This book helps
us refocus on Him. Recommended.
HEAVEN WITHOUT HER A desperate daughters search for the heart of her
mother's fath By Kitty Foth-Regner ISBN 978-0-7852-2744-1 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Though raised in a Christian home, Kitty Foth-Regner was swept into the
culture of the late 1960s and became an ardent feminist and a determined agnostic. The values that drove her life were pleasure,
success in her career, and preserving her independence. For years, she found satisfaction in her way of life, suppressing
any thoughts that there could be more.
Despite the differences between her lifestyle and that of her godly mother,
they maintained a close relationship, and Kitty’s mother continued to share of her faith and live it out in a way Kitty
found difficult to ignore. When her mother became fatally ill, Kitty began to feel that there might be flaws in her current
worldview.
A promise made to her mother on her deathbed sent Kitty on an exploration
of the world’s major religions. She investigated historical and scientific evidence for various religions, and consumed
a copious amount of reading material from people in a variety of professional and religious fields. In the end, she came to
the conclusion that Biblical Christianity was truth, and found in it the answers she yearned for.
Once she accepted this truth, her entire life changed as God moved powerfully
in her, transforming her, taking away her anger at the world, and giving her the peace and freedom from fear she so desired.
No longer did she fear death, and she could rest confident in the knowledge she will be with her mother again one day.
This memoir testifies of one woman’s journey to faith and the power
of God to change lives.
FIGHT God's Man Series Are You Willing to Pick a Fight with
the Enemy? By Kenny Luck ISBN 978-1-57856-988-5 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Melanie Jones
FIGHT is a hard read. The writing is engrossing, entertaining and informative,
but it contains hard truths. In fact, author Kenny Luck's warnings that reading the book and taking it to heart places you
square in Satan's bull's-eye could be enough to make you put it down.
But don't. By reading FIGHT, you may be issuing a challenge, but the
book helps equip you for battle.
The men's pastor at Saddleback Church, Luck knows his audience well.
He peppers the pages with military history, sports and even a bit of rock-and-roll. But everything furthers his message that
God will give you everything you need to fight the battle — but the tools Satan will use most likely lie within you.
To win, you have to root out every shadow of darkness within.
IT'S POSSIBLE Turn Your Dreams into Reality By Derrick Moore ISBN
978-0-8254-3359-7 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Have you given up your dreams, found life's challenges too difficult?
Moore takes us on a journey, showing how we can go from nothing to being everything God wants us to be.
Using Biblical stories and his own story of rise to the NFL, Moore explains
God's principles of success. He cautions those who believe the idiom about trusting God and waiting shouldn't use it as an
excuse for inaction. Nor should we get discouraged and give up when our lives don't unfold as we plan. Our lives should be
all about trusting God and stepping forward as God opens doors. We'll never get anywhere if we don't act on the opportunities
presented.
An interesting and readable book, firmly grounded in God's Word. For
those who dream, those who've been discouraged and for those graduates just starting the journey.
THE BAKER POCKET GUIDE TO WORLD RELIGIONS: What Every Christian Needs
to Know By Gerald R McDermott ISBN 978-0-8010-7160-7 Baker Books
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This is a small volume, easily tucked into a purse, that packs a whole
lot of information. The book takes the main religions of the world and compares and contrasts them with Christianity. It also
covers Christianity, giving believers, in a short chapter, the reason for their faith and the reality of Christ and following
Him.
As Christians we often dismiss religions as demonic and not worth our
time to explore or understand. In doing so, we do several things: show our ignorance and arrogance, keep ourselves from discovering
better ways to witness using the person's own concepts of belief, and we fail to do what is the core of Christ's approach—loving
and reaching out to others where they're at.
I found this book a valuable learning tool and a good resource for beginning
to comprehend why someone believes and responds as they do to the “typical” Christian witness.
(I would like to see a format where the sidebars were in a print large
enough not to make me squint or use a magnifying glass.) Recommended
HOLY FOOLS Following Jesus with Reckless Abandon By Mathew Woodley ISBN
978-1-4143-1630-7-3 SaltRiver a division of Tyndale House Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
A holy fool. Not a very attractive or desirable term. Nobody wants to
be called a fool. But what was Jesus, besides the Son of God? Not a man who stood back and kept his mouth shut, but rather
a man who preached the Word without abandon. A Holy Fool. The bible is full of such people. Do we want a tepid spiritual life,
or one shouting to the rafters with Christ’s love?
Mathew Woodley takes us from mundane to outrageous. Our faith from lukewarm
to fiery hot. But first, he makes us look to see exactly where we stand in our religious indifference. Are we a wall flower
for Jesus or a fool that tells everyone we meet about him?
HOLY FOOLS makes the reader think, an often painful but necessary process.
Awaken your spiritual passion with surrender and discernment. Set your soul on fire for Christ and become a holy fool.
WITH THIS RING Promises to Keep: An intimate, line-by-line look at
traditional wedding vows By Joanna Weaver ISBN 978-1-4000-7476-1 WaterBrook Press
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Taking the wedding vows line by line, Weaver expands on them. Using Scripture,
quotes, anecdotes and stories of love even through adversity, we all come to a realization of the depth of what we promise
when we make our commitment before God, each other, family and friends. Some of the stories made me laugh, some brought a
tear...all showed me the depth of love possible between husband and wife.
She adds ample pages for writing down memories to keep about love, wedding,
life.
Vows are sacred and meant to be forever, as God's love is for us. This
small volume brings us back to the core of love and what marriage is all about. A great gift for the soon to be wed as well
as those already married. Recommended.
BIBLE ATLAS AND COMPANION By David Barrett and Christopher D Hudson ISBN
978-1-59789-779-2 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
As you read the Bible, do you have trouble visualizing the locations,
where and when things happened or their context on the map, in the Bible and in the chronology of history?
BIBLE ATLAS AND COMPANION sets all this out in an easy to see, read and
visualize format, from stunning full color maps to pictures of the area explained in the text. And not just any old maps,
these were based on the latest NASA imagery.
The book includes lists and Bible passages and makes a wonderful companion
to Bible study.
An excellent discovery for any Bible student.
THE WORLDS GREATEST BIBLE PUZZLES—STORIES OF THE BIBLE ISBN
978-1-60260-029-4 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Puzzles. Some can't help themselves when it comes to doing puzzles. Some
will do any puzzle. Others, like me, have their favorite types. I learned some fun new ones going through this book. No, I
didn't do every puzzle, but I did some and figured out how to do all of them. Some took more figuring out than others, and,
I was delighted they had my favorite type of puzzle. There were also some nice twists on some common puzzle styles
Each puzzle encourages digging into God's Word for answers, though there
is an answer key when completely overwhelmed. These aren't puzzles for the younger set. Think in terms of tweens on up. But
for those who like puzzles, this makes a great gift for oneself or a friend.
THE PRESENCE OF A HIDDEN GOD Evidence for the God of the Bible By
D. James Kennedy PhD & Jerry Newcombe ISBN 978-1-60142-077-0 Multnomah Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This book is a wonderful last book from D. James Kennedy, delineating
the deep and abiding faith by which he lived his life, and by which he died.
In clear, easily read chapters, Kennedy and Newcombe take us from the
accusations against Christianity to the reality of life in Christ. Chapters include Evidence for God, Is God Truly Hidden?,
How to Know God, Doubts About God, If God is Love, Then Why... and many other thought provoking chapters.
Pg. 15 ...this world was made with a purpose and that purpose was mankind.
Pg. 39 Atheism not only makes life cheap, but it derives it of any meaning of significance.
This book is for those who need to be reminded of who we are in Christ,
for those who are questioning, for those who witness to others and for those who are searching. Makes a good gift and a good
addition to any library.
MAKE TODAY COUNT John C Maxwell ISBN 978-1-60024-180-2 HachetteAudio Reviewed
by Elisabeth H. Bantz
If you'd rather listen to a book on SUCCESS than read it, this is for you. True success
is based on wisdom from God, and the decisions you make based on that wisdom.
The first CD begins: "Your agenda
determines your success," and continues with simple yet profound words of wisdom like, remove negative words from your mouth,
and replace them with the appropriate ones. And express gratitude always. The second CD expounds on the wisdom of putting
your family before success in the workplace. Instead of giving THINGS to your family, devote your TIME to them. And invest
your money wisely. Maxwell suggests 10% to God's work, 10% to investments, and 80% to live on. The third CD discusses faith
and success. We all have faith in something, but is it faith in the truth or untruth? A weak faith will be weakened by catastrophe,
but a strong faith will be strengthened by it.
The purpose in this life is not "to have and to hold," but "to
give and to serve." Our purpose is to add value to others. Treat everyone with respect. In doing so, it adds value to ourselves,
for we cannot give what we do not possess. Be generous before you become prosperous; THAT'S SUCCESS.
A modern
Book of Proverbs, I recommend this faith-filled and Bible based audiobook.
LIFE IS A GIFT By Bob and Judy Fisher ISBN 978-0-446-19636-9 FaithWords
Reviewer Melanie Jones
I confess. I didn't want to read LIFE IS A GIFT. Face it, with a subtitle
like INSPIRATION FROM THE SOON DEPARTED, you know it isn't going to be a happy, fun read. But within one chapter, I got
over it.
The Fishers interviewed 104 hospice patients and their families for this
book. They make it clear from the outset that none of the 104 lived to see the book's publication. Yet the book isn't about
death and dying. The book is about living. The hospice patients talk about regrets — or the lack of them. They talk
about the importance of loving your family while you can. About the importance of forgiveness. The promise of Heaven.
That's not to say I didn't leave the book with a few soggy pages. In
fact, to confess again, there was one element I couldn't make myself read: Lyrics written in honor of a 5-year-old girl dying
of a painful nerve disorder.
The faith element is strong with Scripture to back up much of it. However,
some portions are presented in the interview subjects' words, which left me with concerns about a message of works-based salvation.
LIFE IS A GIFT comes with two warnings: One, some parts may break your
heart; two, the whole book will change your outlook on life.
TWO WARS One Hero's Fight on Two Fronts—Abroad and Within By
Nate Self ISBN 978-1-4143-2009-0 Tyndale Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
He won medals for heroism and yet returns home conflicted, not about
his duty or loyalty, but with the immense difference between being a soldier at war and a citizen at peace. Where does faith
fit when men, young men, died under his command, when a mission goes horribly wrong, when one as a Christian must not hate,
but wage war and kill nonetheless? This is his story.
Nate is a young man with dreams of the military. He graduates from West
Point, marries his teen sweetheart and begins his life as a soldier. He is good. He's a ranger, the best of the best. Nate
seeks to be the best at what he does as a soldier and commander, as a husband and eventually a father and as a Christian.
For any soldier it becomes difficult to switch between war readiness and the normalcy of family life. But after 9/11 everything
changes and Nate finds himself in Afghanistan leading his men into battle to rescue a Navy SEAL. The battle that takes a toll
on both body and mind makes him a hero to his government and the media. But the battle doesn't stay on the battlefield.
Eventually, weary of war, Nate closes down to the still small voice of
God inside and ends his military career. It is then he wages another war one he fears will drive away his wife and family,
the war against Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Only his wife and family don't abandon him. He discovers God hasn't either.
Broken, Nate, with Julie at his side, begins the road back to healing for himself and their marriage.
A close up of war and the men who fight not only for their country, but
for their very soul. Definitely well worth the read.
CRAZY LOVE Overwhelmed by a Relentless God By Francis Chan ISBN:
978-1-4347-6851-3 David C. Cook Reviewer Kay Tira
Challenging, refreshing and face-slapping, CRAZY LOVE is Francis Chan’s
postmodern wake-up call to the American church. Chapters begin with “Stop Praying” and conclude with “The
Crux of the Matter,” alerting the reader to the need to replace lukewarm religion with pure relationship and worship
of the Creator Who loves with a crazy love.
“I wrote this book because much of our talk doesn’t match
our lives,” writes Chan (p. 166), in his fresh but ancient message that calls his readers to a genuine response. With
Scripture, straight talk, on-line videos and mini-biographies (profiles of the obsessed) Chan presents a winning combination
of challenge and encouragement.
Great read.
WHERE DID I LEAVE MY GLASSES The What, When, and Why of Normal Memory
Loss By Martha Weinman Lear ISBN 978-0-446-58059-5 Wellness Central Publishing Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
What a relief to discover that walking into a room and wondering why
you are there is a normal part of the aging process! Who is that woman across the room? Should I know her? What is her name?
With humor, statistics, scientific facts, and clarification from doctors,
Martha Weinman Lear leads us through the reasons our memory lapses after the age of thirty. WHERE DID I LEAVE MY GLASSES?
gives us practical and fun ways to stimulate the memory part of our brain. With exercises, both mental and physical, we can
learn how to retain the information our brain stores in order to prevent “overload.”
Although not classified as “Christian,” WHERE DID I LEAVE
MY GLASSES is a thought-provoking, informative resource book written in layman’s terms. A wonderful read for anyone
approaching the magic age of thirty and beyond.
MOVING FORWARD Taking the Lead in Your Life By David Pelzer ISBN
978-1-59995-065-5 Center Street Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
If there is someone who has the right to tell us how to get on with life,
David Pelzer certainly does. If you haven't read his story which began in the book A CHILD CALLED “IT” you are
missing out. That book begins his story of incredible abuse to finally rescue and learning to live life. In this book he shows
the reader how to deal with the past, leave it behind and move on.
Wallowing in the past, in abuse, in mistakes, in guilt, in bad choices,
leads no place. At some point if we want to become the person God created each of us to be, we need to decide to deal with
the crud and move on. If Pelzer can do it, anyone can and that includes each one of us.
Told with honesty and humor as well as slices of his past, Pelzer helps
us reach for the life we can live, are meant to live, a life that inspires as it satisfies. This might be my favorite book
of his, though it wouldn't have had the same impact had I not read most of his other books. Nevertheless, this book does stand
alone. Worthwhile read.
For those who prefer the audio version. I recommend, MOVING FORWARD Taking
the Lead in Your Life By David Pelzer ISBN 978-1-60024-228-1 HachetteAudio
Though the text may be the same, different things "jump" out when I listen rather
than read. In the audio version over and over the message was clear. Deal with your problems, with counseling if needed, but
don't use your problems as an excuse not to let go and move on to do something positive with your life. Don't be a victim.
Your have the power to choose. Choose to move on, be kind, reach out and help others. Don't waste your life. Good advice!
SEW U: HOME STRETCH The Built by Wendy Guide to Sewing Knit
Fabrics By Wendy Mullin with Eviana Hertman ISBN 978-0-316-11837-8 Little Brown and Company Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
Love those T-Shirts? How about T-Shirts and other comfortable, stretch
knit clothing that actually fits and is fun to wear? Think you can't create them on your own. SEW U: HOME STRETCH shows just
how wrong that assumption can be.
With a few included patterns and some basic and practical information
and directions, the author shows how to created a whole lot more than the basic T-Shirt. With her instructions, some basic
equipment (though a sewing machine will do, a serger works better) and a creative mind, even the novice sewer can go from
T-Shirts to hoodies to a variety of tops, skirts, dresses—all with a few basic patterns. And, I repeat, those patterns
are included.
The author also shows how to recycle those comfortable knits and fleeces
you already own. Get this book today and have a whole new wardrobe in a very short time.
This book is a keeper for anyone with that itch to stitch.
ACTS THRU 2 CORINTHIANS Vol 10—WHAT ABOUT THE CHURCH Quick Notes:
Simplified Bible Commentary Series Dr. Peter Barnes & Dr. Mark Stauss ISBN 978-1-59789-776-1 Barbour Publishing
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This isn't some heavy, hard backed, hard to comprehensive, exhaustive
treatise on God's Word. This is an overview that helps us understand the basic message of the passages and provides practical
applications as well as thoughtful questions.
This series makes wonderful Bible studies for Sunday School or other
discussion groups as the book brings us back to the authority of THE WORD. I used it during my morning quiet time and found
it helped give a good start to my day.
As in other books in this series, the format helps the reader stick with
it by breaking up information into “bites” such as overview, explanation of the passage and broken up with Critical
Observations and Demystifying the passages, finally a Taking it Home section providing the key observations from the passage.
This series is a winner for those who want more than a shallow knowledge
of God's Word.
MILLIONAIRE BY THIRTY The quickest path to early financial independence By
Douglas R Andrew, Emron D Andrew, Aaron R Andrew ISBN 978-1-60024-149-2 Hachette Audio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
There is lots of information on these CDs. The Andrews go through any
number of scenarios for building wealth, many counter to prevailing wisdom. Do they work? According to Douglas, he didn't
give his sons wealth, just a good start and information. According to him, using this system, they became millionaires—and
neither has reached 30 yet.
I do like that he balances monetary wealth with what he calls the “real”
wealth of family and giving back. The system certainly seems to work for some, but it does have its detractors (http://www.dougthorburn.com/reviews.html). Truth? I don't know, but I'm not an expert. I do think some of the ideas
have merit. But, like any “big” decision, financial decisions need examination and competent advice.
If I have a problem with the CDs, it is the almost constant suggestion
to get further information from the web site. That said, this book might at least get the younger set to realize that saving
and investing may have more long-term merit than squandering money on things gone tomorrow.
MIDLIFE MANUAL FOR MEN Finding Significance in the Second Half By
Stephen Arterburn and John Shore ISBN 13: 978-0-7642-0423-4 Bethany House Publishers Reviewer Michelle Levigne
The midlife crisis doesn’t have to be a crisis – for men
or the women who love them. With humor and insight, the authors attack the different phases of a man’s life, the different
mental images all men carry about themselves (He-Man of the Universe), and give them guidance on what to discard (Good Riddance)
and what to embrace (Pure Gold).
Men are Human, and so are the women who love them. That’s something
we often forget in the mis-labeled battle of the sexes. That means we all make mistakes, all have fears and insecurities,
and all have needs. We can fill each other’s needs. Things that we think the other side won’t like, that men think
they should keep hidden from their wives – like a penchant for sitting in the garage, playing and writing rock music
– might just be things their wives would enjoy sharing with them. The authors--gasp--counsel men to actually talk to
their wives/girlfriends/significant others. Communication features strongly in the advice and analyses they hand out throughout
the book. Relating everything to a man’s relationship with God is also an important element.
For instance, what happens if Batman decides he wants lots of PR for
all the heroic things he does? A man walking with God goes about his heroic work and doesn’t demand talk show appearances
and parades. All men are heroes for the everyday heroic things they do – helping with cleaning, remembering to do chores,
picking up the kids at school – but how many men realize that they are heroes to their wives and children? They need
to be reminded of that, and to keep things in proper perspective before God.
The old adage (ala Mary Poppins) is that a spoonful of sugar helps the
medicine go down – laughter makes it easier to swallow some bitter or simply downright uncomfortable truths. Arterburn
and Shore will make you laugh, or just give a crooked, embarrassed grin, and think about the things that need fixing, whether
it’s in your mind and heart, or the mind and heart of the man you love.
FIRST COMES LOVE THEN COMES WHAT? Challenging your assumptions on
dating, love and commitment By Kimberly Beair, MS LPC ISBN 978-1-58997-448-7 Tyndale Publishers/Focus on the Family Reviewer
Elisabeth H. Bantz www.bantzbooks.com
Where was this book when I was dating? I know; the author wasn't born
yet. Well, anyone of dating age (which is pretty much any age these days) will benefit from this intuitive look at how we
make our choices, and how we might do better.
First the author challenges our false assumptions about mate-finding.
Then she disects love into three parts, for our own good, of course. It won't hurt, believe me. She teaches us how to proceed
with caution, to look at ourselves more accurately, and to deal with problem areas in our relationships. The chapter on recognizing
Red Flags is worth its weight in gold if it steers you away from a wrong choice. And if that's not enough, she concludes the
ever-helpful Ten Commandments of Dating, and Ten Commandments of Engagement that's like frosting on the cake. Hopefully a
wedding cake that heralds a lifetime of joy (with a bit of work thrown in).
Happy mate-hunting. But read this book first.
DR. GOTT'S NO FLOUR, NO SUGAR COOKBOOK By Peter H Gott, MD ISBN
978-0-446-58250-6 Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
No flour. No sugar. Makes complete sense. But what will it taste like?
Will it work?
Dr. Gott goes into the reasons why we overeat, and why most diets fail.
He assures us success and the ability to keep off the weight we lose. He goes on to explain how the Glycemic index works and
how food pertains to science.
Although I haven’t gone on the doctor’s “diet”,
the menus are delicious and attractive. It is easy to see how many have succeeded by following the simple plan Dr. Gott lays
out. THE NO FLOUR, NO SUGAR diet allows “cheating”, with weight results continuing. Dr. Gott stresses everything
in moderation, knowing how deprivation is the leading cause of diet failure. It’s amazing how cutting out simple, not-needed
ingredients, affects the taste of foods very little.
While giving the reader a summary of his diet, the cookbook is a tool
to help achieve success.
Don't expect to hurry through this book. It is an in-depth look at Intelligent
Design (ID), clarifying its scientific basis as well as the very real differences from creationism. Those espousing ID may
be creationist, but don't have to be, since ID doesn't go that far. It is simply a theory that includes other than the prevailing
box in which evolutionists have placed themselves.
Pg. 224: Intelligent Design is primarily a historical science. It studies
present-day causes and applies them to the historical record to infer the best explanation for natural phenomena. Intelligent
Design uses uniformitarian reasoning, based upon the principle that “the present is key to the past.”
If something looks like it was designed and didn't just happen, ID scientists
will accept that premise. (How archaeologists differ an arrow from a rock uses ID principles.) ID scientists keep an open
mind, unlike evolutionists who, despite evidence to the contrary, will contort their theories into incomprehensible knots
just to be sure they stay within their “It has to evolve” box.
Using the scientific record and historical research, the authors deal
with the problems with evolution and the many different elements of ID. Why is this important? If we embrace a purely evolutionary
outlook, then life, and we, have no meaning. What we say or do has no meaning? Right and wrong have no meaning. However, if
earth is the product of an intelligent design, everything changes. Life does have meaning and opens the door for none-tangibles
such as caring, compassion and love.
GOD'S UNDERTAKER Has Science Buried God? By John C Lennox ISBN
978-0-8254-6188-0 Kregel Publications/Lion Hudson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Where is God in today’s world? There are as many opinions as there
are people. He once was, but is no more. He never was. He hasn’t made his appearance, etc. Science is the biggest murderer
of God. Humankind as been torn asunder over theories of Creation vs. Evolution with more questions arising with each passing
decade.
John C. Lennox, takes apart the theory and provides the evidence, leading
the reader to the conclusion that science could not exist without God.
GOD’S UNDERTAKER HAS SCIENCE BURIED GOD? Is not light reading but
for those who are truly searching. Those who want to compare thoughts and theories and come to their own conclusion. Those
who want answers to age-old debates. Is God real or a figment of those not intelligent enough to know the difference?
FAMILY SQUEEZE Tales of Hope and Hilarity for a Sandwiched Generation By
Phil Callaway ISBN 978-1-59052-916-4 Multnomah Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
FAMILY SQUEEZE is aimed at those who have reached middle age. When mid-life
hits, often pressure increases from all sides. At this stage in life, both parents and children may require care and attention,
financial burdens can increase, and life can heap on burdens.
Phil Callaway delves into what he calls the “family squeeze”
of the “Middle Ages” with a lively humor, despite the seriousness of the subject. He explores such topics as how
to deal with aging parents, how to let go of adult children, and how to keep your marriage strong and fresh. The book abounds
with real life stories and practical advice, all filtered through Callaway’s lighthearted lens of life. Short chapters
make this a quick and breezy read, but there are plenty of solid Scriptural principles throughout.
Recommended for families being “squeezed.”
WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT MONEY ISBN 978-1-59789-992-5 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Don't think the Bible has much if anything to say about money and finances.
Buzz! That answer is incorrect. Truth is, the Bible has quite a bit to say about money, what it is, how we should treat it,
how to stay out of debt, budgeting, being accountable, earning a living, not being lazy and being good stewards of what God
has given by giving back to Him and others.
While Scripture is the primary focus of this pocket-sized, handy book,
each chapter has an informative intro and a list of what/how to lists at the end of each chapter. A great start to getting
one's finances in order. Would make a good discussion starter for a couple, family or class.
WHAT YOUR DOCTOR MAY NOT TELL YOU ABOUT DIABETES By Steven V Joyal,
MD with Deborah Mitchell ISBN 978-0-446-69774-3 Wellness Central Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This is one common sense book that every person with diabetes and those
with loved ones who deal with this should read. Though mainly aimed at those with pre-diabetes and type 2, information is
solid on cause, on how much of what passes as common knowledge about the disease and treatment may not be so correct after
all, and how diabetes can be handled sometimes simply with non-medical intervention such as diet (including how to prepare
food, not just what should be avoided), supplements and exercise. But this book also is good for those dealing with inflammatory
diseases and heart problems.
WHAT YOUR DOCTOR MAY NOT TELL YOU ABOUT DIABETES reveals the latest research
about diabetes, new methods of treatment—including natural methods, new drugs and new information of which even your
doctor may be unaware.
Take charge of your life by taking charge of your health. This book may
be a good place to start.
I'M NOT CRAZY, BUT I MIGHT BE A CARRIER By Charles Marshall ISBN
978-0-8254-3419-8 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
A little bit crazy, Marshall must be a riot in person. As it is, his
short, anecdotal chapters start with humor and end with a scriptural point that goes down easy, but with truth.
His chapters provide an inkling of the content. Some the titles are as
follows... Going to the Dogs, A Salute to Pants (Who knew men won't talk about pants to each other.) The Dangers
of Sauntering Tough Guys Don't Need Novocain A Man's Approach to Valentine's Day.
A fun book with a message to gives that slightly off-kilter guy in your
life. (Father's Day is coming.)
WELCOME TO COLLEGE
A Christ-Follower's Guide for
the Journey
By Jonathan Morrow
ISBN 978-0-8254-3354-2
Kregel Publications
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
OK Moms and Dads and relatives
of those going off to college in the near future, this is the book to send them off with, whether they plan to attend a secular
or a Christian college. Of course, you can't be sure they'll read it, but if they will, they will find reasons to keep and
grow in their walk with Christ, stay pure and learn how to live and share their faith.
This isn't your average “gift”
book for the college-bound. It isn't a gift book at all, but a book that actually makes the reader think and reason and use
the mind God gave to steer a course to a fulfilled college experience. The author stands on the rightful claim that God never
asked us to check our brains at the door, something, unfortunately, too many Christians have done. Now we have a generation
that has a feel-good faith with little substance and certainly nothing to hold onto once the secular professors start. This
book shows that college student how to build a solid foundation of faith and to meet the objections to Christianity head on,
yet with respect.
That said, this book is far
too valuable to keep just for those in college. This is one of those books that parents and other adults also need to read
and study and keep on the shelf. My copy is all marked up as I highlighted areas that will draw me back as I write about my
faith in bothChristian and a secular environments. This book manages to coalesce
the foundation of faith from worldview and the existence of God to morality and how to negotiate college (and life) without
losing health, morals or mind. Buy two, one for your college student and one for yourself.
HOW NOT TO LOOK OLD
Fast and Effortless Way to
Look 10 Years Younger, 10 Pounds Lighter, 10 Times Better
By Charla Krupp
ISBN 978-0-446-58114-1
Springboard Press
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Getting into your forties,
fifties and up yet dressing like a twenty something? Maybe you've given up and you're already dressing for the retirement
home. Krupp shows us how to look Young & Hip without looking cheesy or out of sync with our bodies or our age.
The book has lots of information
and pictures as well as lists of what to and what not to wear, what are the old rules and what is ok for today. Find your
perfect shirt length, how to put together an outfit (and don't make that a match head to foot), makeup, shoes and so much
more.
There are good tips in this
book and it was a fun book to read. However, if you aren't a black tie sort of person or live in a large population center,
then you might need to scale back some of the suggestions to your particular life style.
Need a nudge to go through
your closet and learn what works for you today? Check out this book.
HOW TO MAKE LIFE WORK
The Guide to Getting It Together
and Keeping It Together
By Michelle McKinney Hammond
ISBN 978-0-446-58062-5
Faith Words Publishing
Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
HOW TO MAKE LIFE WORK. We’d
all like to know the answer to this question. Where do we look for this answer? How do we make the Bible fit our life in the
twenty-first century? In His Word, God gave us a blueprint for our life. Often times, trying to live by His plan seems daunting
or unachievable. Michelle McKinney Hammond shows us life in all its quirks, twists and turns.
In HOW TO MAKE LIFE WORK, Hammond
shows us practical, fun ways of doing just that--making our life work. Starting with our relationship with God, and moving
on to ourselves and others, the author gives us the tools we need to prioritize our to-do list, take care of our spiritual
and emotional needs, and strengthen the relationships in our lives without losing anything that really matters.
Hammond goes on to show us
how hardship makes us stronger, joy in the Lord prepares us for life’s journey, and sorrow can be turned into something
positive. This book is a must read for everyone, male and female. A ten on the faith scale. A job well done.
ROME UNABELLAVISTA
How To Tour Italy
By Anthony Capozzoli
ISBN 979-4552-0-0-0
Bella Industries Publishing
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
A couple of years ago, my sister
and my sister-in-law took a trip to Italy and Germany. They came back with thousands, yes thousands, of pictures. They came
back with information,calendars and other mementos. How fascinating to go through
all the pictures and to see what they saw. But I wasn't there. I do know about the hours and hours before the trip my sister-in-law
spent online trying to dig up this or that information needed.
This book just might have cut
that time down to a more manageable level. ROME UNABELLAVISTA contains an unbelievable amount of practical as well as interesting
information on Rome. There are lists of what is available to the tourist, when it is available, the best time to tour and
how much, though to understand you need to be versed in Euros.
There are diagrams of the buildings,
maps and lots of of beautiful photos of the priceless sculptures, paintings, etc that grace this city along with background
information on both the art, the artist and the circumstances of the creation as well as meaning.
For those planning a trip to
Rome, this book would be invaluable. For those not yet going, this is a wonderful introduction to Rome and makes the armchair
tourist feel they just might have actually walked the streets of Rome and beheld it's many wonders.
QUICK NOTES VOL. 9: LUKE & JOHN
Life that Lasts Forever
Simplified Bible Commentary Series
By Dr. Mark Strauss with Dr. Stephen Leston and Robert Deffinbaugh
ISBN 978-1-59789-775-4
Barbour Publishing
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I've read through and studied these two books in a lifetime of study and yet, this book
brings new dimensions to the table. Suitable for both the novice and the Biblical students of long standing, QUICK NOTES VOL.
9: LUKE & JOHN takes us on a journey to Jesus's time and ministry.
The format helps the reader stick with it by breaking up information into “bites”
such as overview, explanation of the passage and broken up with Critical Observations and Demystifying Luke/John, finally
a Taking it Home section providing the key observations from the passage.
Though I would have preferred
a darker and somewhat larger print, this was a valuable and solidly Biblical addition to my knowledge of Jesus gift of grace.
NEVER SAY DIET
Make five decisions and break
the fat habit for good
By Chantel Hobbs
ISBN 10: 1-4000-7449-5
ISBN 13: 978-1-4000-7449-5
Waterbrook Press
Reviewer Michelle Levigne
We’ve all heard the slogans:
You are what you eat. It’s all in your mind. Mind over matter. And the different mantras about discipline and counting
calories. The battle is over whether it’s fat you need to cut or carbs or something else. Somebody is doing something
wrong, otherwise the weight loss industry wouldn’t be such a million-dollar proposition. We would all be trim and weigh
a lot less than we do.
Looking at the author, smiling
and trim on the cover of the book, it is hard to believe she was 200 pounds overweight when she started her weight loss journey.
She didn’t depend on a weight loss clinic or diet pills or pre-packaged food or any of a dozen new schemes that come
out every year. She created her own program, using common sense, and changing her brain before she changed her body.
What struck me about this program
is that it’s so do-able. Flexible. Easy to personalize for each person. Yes, it includes the dreaded E-word: exercise!
Yes, it means watching what you eat. Yes, it means cutting down what you eat. But Chantel explains how different foods work,
how different types of exercises do different things to your body. She doesn’t require you buy her exercise equipment
and pre-packaged meals and designer diet pills and vitamins. She shares her diet and exercise journey, including her mental,
emotional, and spiritual journey that worked in tandem with her physical journey.
The bottom line is that changing the way you view food, exercise and health changes the
rest of your life. Make these changes, and you’ll never have to think about dieting ever again. That sounds good to
me!
CLOSER THAN YOUR SKIN
Unwrapping the Mystery of Intimacy
with God
By Susan D. Hill
ISBN 10: 1-4000-7382-0
ISBN 13: 978-1-4000-7382-5
Waterbrook Press
Reviewer Michelle Levigne
Hill takes us through her journey
– and it is an ongoing journey, for her and for all of us – of learning to hear God’s voice and see Him
working and feel His presence. Not just in the high emotions of worship or great need, but in ordinary, everyday things. And
yet, when awareness of God comes, how can anything be ordinary?
Brutally honest about her pain
and failures, the near-shattering of her marriage, her flaws and searching, she goes back to her childhood and discovers those
moments when God was present and she was either too busy to notice or not yet spiritually aware enough to realize it. I loved
her references to the “blue-green days” of simple living in a Canadian forest cabin. The night when a “crazy
rabbit” by the side of the road ended up being God’s instrument to save her life will make you shiver …
and pause to wonder if maybe you’ve had some moments like that, and completely missed them.
Along with the feeling of envy,
wanting to have an awareness an intimacy with God, you’ll also feel that shiver of burden, obligation, and knowing your
life is going to be changed. There’s always that fear that all-out surrender to God will mean doing something you’d
rather not do, something you don’t like. But if you’re surrendered to God, do you really think your heart won’t
be changed so you can face those once-dreaded things, events, people, with gladness? An interesting journey, a challenge,
this book is worth reading – and not alone. Share it with others in a reading group, with the guide provided.
GENERATION NEXT MARRIAGE A Couples Guide to Keeping it Together By
Tricia Goyer ISBN-10: 1590529103 ISBN-13: 978-1-59052-910-2 Multnomah Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Take the cultural experiences and mores of a generation and the insight
of many couples of that generation. Add Scriptural wisdom and counsel, statistics, and reference materials. Bind all this
together with chatty and insightful narrative, and you have GENERATION NEXT MARRIAGE, a handbook on marriage for Generation
X.
Targeting members of Generation X (born between the 1960s and the 1980s),
GENERATION NEXT MARRIAGE abounds with practical tips and advice that will help a floundering marriage or strengthen an already
excellent one. Not only does this book include some commonly discussed aspects of marriage such as communication and lovemaking,
it addresses other issues that play an integral role such as media and relationship role models.
The format is pleasantly casual and authentic, with real life experiences
abounding throughout. Interspersed in each chapter are quotes from other Gen X couples, Scriptures, statistics, and reference
materials. In the back of the book, study questions and Scriptures related to each chapter invite couples to delve deeper
into the material.
Coming from a Generation X wife Tricia Goyer, rather than a professional
counselor or clergy, makes GENERATION NEXT MARRIAGE a fresh and unique look at what strengthens and grows a marriage. GENERATION
NEXT MARRIAGE shares hope for excellent marriages marked by love, commitment, and care as well as the means to fulfill that
hope.
THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST YEAR By Stephanie
Wood & Kitty O'Callaghan ISBN 978-0-446-69804-7 Wellness Central Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When the blurb on the back calls this baby boot camp, that is no lie.
THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST YEAR book is 478 pages of practical, solid information that takes a balanced
view on most subjects and handles them with depth and humor. The style is informal, as though the authors were sitting across
the table sharing tea and advice, the basic of which is “You can do this.”
They dissipate guilt that comes from having no clue what to do and being
confused by all the differing advice, overloading already exhausted Mom-circuits. THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST
YEAR helps the new mom steer through the minefields of how best to feed, handle, and take care of the baby as well as how
to handle medical problems, what equipment to buy and even deals with multiple and preemie births as well as dealing with
a baby with disabilities. The authors don't forget Mom or Dad and includes tips on taking care themselves and their relationship.
This is, quite frankly, THE book on baby care to buy a new mom whether
that mom is a first time mom or already has a child or two. (Some things do change.)
A few years ago, my book HELP! I'M A NEW MOTHER was released that focused
on Mother to Mother advice for that first time mom. It is a small volume that fits easily in the purse. THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S
GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST YEAR won't fit unless that diaper bag is good sized. I do recommend keeping it handy on a table or counter,
for no matter what the problem is with the baby, this is probably the first place to check for an answer.
I already have THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST YEAR on the
list of gifts to give at a shower I'll be attending in the next few months. Do a new mom a favor—give her this book.
365 MOMENTS OF PEACE FOR MOM Perpetual Calendar ISBN 978-1-59789-950-5 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
January 25: On a cold day, snuggle up and read a book with your child.
Both your feet and your heart will be warm.
February 18: You can learn many things from children. How much patience
you have, for instance.
As the above samples show, this perpetual calendar has a wealth of tips, suggestions,
inspiration and encouragement for moms--as well as a dash of humor. The quotes help Moms start the day out on the right note.
Let's face it, we moms need all the encouragement we can get.
This perpetual calendar makes a better gift than
fattening chocolate and gives pleasure and comfort a whole lot longer.
Great gift idea.
HOPE'S WISH How one girl's dream made others' come true By Stuart
and Shelly Stout ISBN 978-1-5955-5158-0 Thomas Nelson
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
She was twelve, just on the verge of those teenage years when she was
diagnosed with bone cancer. What follows is the story of her family's journey through Hope's last battle. Crisis illness effects
the whole family. Many don't survive intact, even when the crisis passes. As a survivor of a childhood illness crisis, I know
the hurts and conflicts that assail a family. I also know, as the Stout family discovered, God is there in the darkness. It
wasn't by accident they named their daughter Hope. She was an inspiration to all who knew her. Why?
Hope didn't just focus in on herself. When the Make-A-Wish Foundation
came calling, Hope's wish was, not for herself, but to grant the wishes of all 155 kids on the waiting list. Her unselfish
wish changed the lives of countless people across the nation. An inspiring story of faith and...Hope.
LIFE'S LITTLE BOOK OF WISDOM FOR GRANDMOTHERS ISBN 978-1-59789-960-4 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
A small purse-sized gift book with wise sayings, quotes, thoughts and
Scripture to encourage those most wonderful of women—our grandmothers.
Page 77: It is as grandmothers that our mothers come into the fullness
of their grace. --Christopher Morley.
Page 81: Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents
sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children. --Alex Haley.
Can be used to start the day with an encouraging word. Great gift idea.
LIFE'S LITTLE BOOK OF WISDOM FOR MOTHERS ISBN 978-1-59789-955-0 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
If there is someone who often needs encouragement, it is mom. This little
book is filled with uplifting Scripture, sentiment and encouragement.
Page 16: The mother's heart is the child's schoolroom.
Page 100: When you get into a tight place and everything goes against
you, till it seems as though you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and that
the tide will turn. --Harriet Beecher Stowe
Page 185: Children have more need of models than of critics.
UNLIMITING GOD Increasing Your Capacity to Experience the Divine By
Richard Blackaby ISBN 978-1-59052-941-6 Multnomah Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Do you have a vision for experiencing a greater degree of God’s
presence and power in your life? If not, UNLIMITING GOD is a great place to attain that vision. And if you already do, UNLIMITING
GOD will further encourage and challenge you. This book explores the desires God has for relationship with us, and the limits
we as Christians put on our relationship with Him.
Five key areas in which Christians often limit God are examined: hearing
God’s voice, allowing Him to work through us, knowing Him on a deeper level, experiencing greater measures of His power
in our lives, and unlocking greater measures of joy in Him. Means to grow beyond these limitations and allow God to expand
our capacities in these areas and other aspects of relationship with Him are examined.
While Blackaby emphasizes growing in faith, prayer, and closeness to
God, he is careful to avoid “name it and claim it” theology. Rather he suggests that we must choose not to let
complacency cause us to live on a spiritual plateau and that we should believe that God wants to continually grow us in Him
and take us into deeper, more powerful revelation of who He is. Through that belief, we are compelled to seek Him with tenacity.
Blackaby shares personal stories, and a wealth of Scripture in
