When God Created My Toes by Dandi Mackall and illustrated by David Hohn is full of beautiful, colorful, and fun art work! I was immediately drawn to the adorable main character and eagerly anticipated what each new page might bring.
The book is not really a story--but more of a collection of little poems from the perspective of a little child. With each new page, the little girl wonders about when God created different parts of her...and the reader gets a sense of awe and wonder about this loving God who made her special..
The book seems to be written for toddlers--maybe 2 or 3 years old. However, when I read it to my four-year old book-lover, his first words upon completion were "Will you read it to me again, please!" I guess I'm not the only one drawn to this book!!
Thanks Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for providing a copy of this book to me for free for purpose of review!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Friday, May 20, 2011
Wonderful Daddy Dates
Daddy Dates, by Greg Wright, is easy to read, easy to enjoy, and easy to be inspired by. The author, father of four girls, shares his experiences with "dating" his daughters--and provides insight as to how the reader might do the same. Wright provides reason for the dating idea, and practical examples. I enjoyed his flowing, conversational style and his humor throughout the book. I also appreciated his encouragement to intentionally know one's children (whether you're the mother or the father) and to parent with a purpose rather than simply coexisting with one's offspring.
The book has a mildly Christian flavor (certainly some biblical principles!) yet is not explicitly about God or His Word.
Thanks, Booksneeze, for providing this complimentary copy for purpose of review. It has inspired me, a mom, to wisely use the brief time I have with my childrren, as children.
The book has a mildly Christian flavor (certainly some biblical principles!) yet is not explicitly about God or His Word.
Thanks, Booksneeze, for providing this complimentary copy for purpose of review. It has inspired me, a mom, to wisely use the brief time I have with my childrren, as children.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Lilies in Moonlight by Allison Pittman
Fairly predictable, but still enjoyable. Pittman is writing a series of "baseball" books and this is the third. However, it's not a chronological series, from what I gather, so the characters are independent in each book (although some overlap.)
I enjoyed the 1920's setting--flappers, prohibition, baseball. The heroine is an emotionally damaged young lady who meets an exceptional, yet mentally failing, older woman. That relationship transforms her inside. The son of the older woman becomes a key character, as well.
I appreciated the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and grace throughout the book. These are clearly spelled out and the salvation plan is given, as well. Encouraging for a Christian and perhaps an invitation for a non-Christian.
I didn't like that the author uses quite a bit of sensual imagery in the story. While it certainly fit the characters and sometimes was recognized by the characters as sinful, it is not always treated so...sometimes the character's indiscretions are left open to be judged by the reader as appropriate or not--or the author may present the actions as cute or fun, while in reality, they are flirting with sexual immorality and lust. I'd love to see the author develop her characters without leading the reader to this point.
Overall, it was a fun book. Not greatly moving, but a fun and relaxing read! Thanks for providing it for me for free, Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers!
I enjoyed the 1920's setting--flappers, prohibition, baseball. The heroine is an emotionally damaged young lady who meets an exceptional, yet mentally failing, older woman. That relationship transforms her inside. The son of the older woman becomes a key character, as well.
I appreciated the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and grace throughout the book. These are clearly spelled out and the salvation plan is given, as well. Encouraging for a Christian and perhaps an invitation for a non-Christian.
I didn't like that the author uses quite a bit of sensual imagery in the story. While it certainly fit the characters and sometimes was recognized by the characters as sinful, it is not always treated so...sometimes the character's indiscretions are left open to be judged by the reader as appropriate or not--or the author may present the actions as cute or fun, while in reality, they are flirting with sexual immorality and lust. I'd love to see the author develop her characters without leading the reader to this point.
Overall, it was a fun book. Not greatly moving, but a fun and relaxing read! Thanks for providing it for me for free, Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers!
Monday, May 2, 2011
1-877-We-Be-Big
We Be Big: The Mostly True Story of How Two Kids from Calhoun County, Alabama, Became Rich & Bubba By Rick Burgess and Bill "Bubba" Bussey with Don Keith
It took me a little bit to get into it, but once I caught the drift of these authors, the book was non-stop reading for me! I laughed so often. I cried. And I was inspired! God has used these two men for extraordinary things--and their story makes me want to avail myself more fully to the Lord, too!
The paths of Rick and Bubba seemed to cross several times in their lives before they eventually ended up doing a radio show together. God clearly orchestrated the details of each of their lives to bring them to that point (even as it seemed they attempted to avoid His hand, at times...) The impact their growth in their relationships with Christ had as they shared it with their audience is incredible! In a society that media portrays as "godless" and uninterested in Christianity, God certainly showed up in a way that the secular media would not likely care to share. Their testimonies encourage the reader to share Christ boldly, and gracefully, at whatever platform He provides. Rick and Bubba did that.
I enjoyed the back and forth narration between chapters. And the first person accounts were interesting and certainly bring the reader into the story.
This is a great read and I'd recommend it! Thanks, Booksneeze, for the free copy you sent for purposes of review!
It took me a little bit to get into it, but once I caught the drift of these authors, the book was non-stop reading for me! I laughed so often. I cried. And I was inspired! God has used these two men for extraordinary things--and their story makes me want to avail myself more fully to the Lord, too!
The paths of Rick and Bubba seemed to cross several times in their lives before they eventually ended up doing a radio show together. God clearly orchestrated the details of each of their lives to bring them to that point (even as it seemed they attempted to avoid His hand, at times...) The impact their growth in their relationships with Christ had as they shared it with their audience is incredible! In a society that media portrays as "godless" and uninterested in Christianity, God certainly showed up in a way that the secular media would not likely care to share. Their testimonies encourage the reader to share Christ boldly, and gracefully, at whatever platform He provides. Rick and Bubba did that.
I enjoyed the back and forth narration between chapters. And the first person accounts were interesting and certainly bring the reader into the story.
This is a great read and I'd recommend it! Thanks, Booksneeze, for the free copy you sent for purposes of review!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Great for multiple ages!!! Life, In Spite of Me
Kristen's story in Life, In Spite of Me: Extraordinary Hope After a Fatal Choice is one of hope, inspiration, faith, and everlasting love. It's a great read for teens and adults, as well.
Kristen Anderson had a good childhood but began to experience depression and sorrow as a teen. The pain in her life led her to what "should" have been a fatal decision to lie down on railroad tracks as a train approached and end her life. The result of that decision was the loss of her legs and so much more gained. The story she shares following this event, a story of recovery, pain, hope, and the saving grace of her Creator (who not only miraculously saved her life when humanly, it should have ended, but also rescued her soul) is a story that should be shared with anyone struggling with depression or even "blues." It's also valuable for anyone who loves a person with depression. It's a great testimony for anyone questioning God's love for each person and a great inspiration for anyone in love with Jesus, as well.
I appreciated the easy writing style of Tricia Goyer, who authored the book with Kristen Anderson. Once I began reading the book, it read quickly and was tough to put down!
One concern I do have about the book is the author's insistence on weaning herself from antidepressants so that she can fully rely on God. While I rejoice with her in her healing from depression, I also strongly believe that some medically need antidepressants--and can trust that God has provided such for them in their well-being. To deny this, or call it something other relying on God would also imply that a person should avoid medication for any medical condition if he is fully relying on God. I believe that God provides medications for us as a means of healing us (it's only through God's grace that any of his creation might imagine/discover/create such medications!)
Overall--great, inspiring book and I'm grateful to WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for sending this book to me free for purpose of this review!
Kristen Anderson had a good childhood but began to experience depression and sorrow as a teen. The pain in her life led her to what "should" have been a fatal decision to lie down on railroad tracks as a train approached and end her life. The result of that decision was the loss of her legs and so much more gained. The story she shares following this event, a story of recovery, pain, hope, and the saving grace of her Creator (who not only miraculously saved her life when humanly, it should have ended, but also rescued her soul) is a story that should be shared with anyone struggling with depression or even "blues." It's also valuable for anyone who loves a person with depression. It's a great testimony for anyone questioning God's love for each person and a great inspiration for anyone in love with Jesus, as well.
I appreciated the easy writing style of Tricia Goyer, who authored the book with Kristen Anderson. Once I began reading the book, it read quickly and was tough to put down!
One concern I do have about the book is the author's insistence on weaning herself from antidepressants so that she can fully rely on God. While I rejoice with her in her healing from depression, I also strongly believe that some medically need antidepressants--and can trust that God has provided such for them in their well-being. To deny this, or call it something other relying on God would also imply that a person should avoid medication for any medical condition if he is fully relying on God. I believe that God provides medications for us as a means of healing us (it's only through God's grace that any of his creation might imagine/discover/create such medications!)
Overall--great, inspiring book and I'm grateful to WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for sending this book to me free for purpose of this review!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Great devotional book for teen girls!
Izzy's Pop Star Plan by Alex Marestaing is a great, creative devotional book for girls! It is written as a daily blog and each day builds on those before it...so it reads a bit like a novel! I've never seen a devotional book in this format, and it seems that it is a great tool for teen girls.
The story follows a girl (Izzy) on her journey as a contestant on an international, pop-star singing competition (much like the television show American Idol.) After each "blog" entry, Izzy (or a commentor) includes a verse related to the content of the blog content for the day. Usually, a brief prayer is included, as well. The entries are interesting and cover a number of topics relevant to girls today--such as: God's unchanging love, sharing Christ's love, doing what's right when it's hard, obeying parents, and so much more. The story addresses mistakes Izzy makes, dating issues, fame/popularity, and more...all of it pointing to Christ and loving Him and others.
One concern that I do have with the book is that it is perhaps a bit superficial for a girl with a strong relationship with Jesus. While the book and its content are Bible based and inspiring, I would guess that a strong Christian will need more than just this short daily reading to keep her walk with Jesus strong. But that doesn't make the book any less interesting or encouraging for a strong Christian girl--she just will likely want to go deeper. On the other hand, the lack of depth may be just right for a new Christian who is just beginning a daily devotional time or even a non-believer who perhaps has an interest in faith.
All in all, I, as an adult, found the book interesting and believe any 12-16 year old might, too! Thanks to Thomas Nelson for sending me a complimentary copy to review!
The story follows a girl (Izzy) on her journey as a contestant on an international, pop-star singing competition (much like the television show American Idol.) After each "blog" entry, Izzy (or a commentor) includes a verse related to the content of the blog content for the day. Usually, a brief prayer is included, as well. The entries are interesting and cover a number of topics relevant to girls today--such as: God's unchanging love, sharing Christ's love, doing what's right when it's hard, obeying parents, and so much more. The story addresses mistakes Izzy makes, dating issues, fame/popularity, and more...all of it pointing to Christ and loving Him and others.
One concern that I do have with the book is that it is perhaps a bit superficial for a girl with a strong relationship with Jesus. While the book and its content are Bible based and inspiring, I would guess that a strong Christian will need more than just this short daily reading to keep her walk with Jesus strong. But that doesn't make the book any less interesting or encouraging for a strong Christian girl--she just will likely want to go deeper. On the other hand, the lack of depth may be just right for a new Christian who is just beginning a daily devotional time or even a non-believer who perhaps has an interest in faith.
All in all, I, as an adult, found the book interesting and believe any 12-16 year old might, too! Thanks to Thomas Nelson for sending me a complimentary copy to review!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
God Gave Us So Much
God Gave Us So Much by Lisa Tawn Bergren is a beautiful children's book that combines three stories in one book. All three focus on Biblical principles explained through the eyes of a talking, loving polar bear family in terms young children can understand. An added bonus is the incredible art work provided by Laura J. Bryant throughout the book.
The first story is "God Gave Us the World." This story describes the variety God has incorporated in our world in geography, personality, preferences, and appearances. It encourages little hearers to appreciate our differences and to be thankful for what God gives to us.
"God gave us Love" follows. I read this lovable story to my kids on Valentine's day...it is a great picture of how we love one another and even more importantly, how God loves us!
Finally, "God Gave Us Heaven" answers many questions kids (and adults, as well) might have about heaven. While the story is mostly a back-and-forth dialogue between a bear cub and her papa, it is interesting and informative at the same time.
The book's target audience is children ages 2 to 5 years, but I believe it is well suited for somewhat older children, as well. My six year old daughter actually enjoyed the stories more than my three year old did. I think, perhaps, some of the subject matter is a bit difficult for a three year old to comprehend (but I still think it's valuable material to present to them--principles our children need to begin to learn at an early age!) The artwork is beautiful and interesting for children of all ages!
Great book, thanks Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes!
The first story is "God Gave Us the World." This story describes the variety God has incorporated in our world in geography, personality, preferences, and appearances. It encourages little hearers to appreciate our differences and to be thankful for what God gives to us.
"God gave us Love" follows. I read this lovable story to my kids on Valentine's day...it is a great picture of how we love one another and even more importantly, how God loves us!
Finally, "God Gave Us Heaven" answers many questions kids (and adults, as well) might have about heaven. While the story is mostly a back-and-forth dialogue between a bear cub and her papa, it is interesting and informative at the same time.
The book's target audience is children ages 2 to 5 years, but I believe it is well suited for somewhat older children, as well. My six year old daughter actually enjoyed the stories more than my three year old did. I think, perhaps, some of the subject matter is a bit difficult for a three year old to comprehend (but I still think it's valuable material to present to them--principles our children need to begin to learn at an early age!) The artwork is beautiful and interesting for children of all ages!
Great book, thanks Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes!
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