Twirl by Patsy Clairmont

In the blurb for “Twirl,” the author, Patsy Clairmont, says she hopes to help her readers make choices that lead to renewal and peace. I figured the twirling had to do with the breakneck pace of our current culture. When I first received “Twirl” for review, I was puzzled by the image of a pinwheel on the front. I wanted a book on how to stop the dizziness of a too-busy life. Then I saw the smaller subtitle, “A Fresh Spin at Life.” Clever!

Instead of trying to stop the chaos, Patsy leads her readers to look at life in a different way, focusing on what’s important. She has a gentle and encouraging tone, and a fun sense of humor. Each chapter ends with questions for further reflection. You don’t have to read the book straight through. Pick out a title that resonates with you. I suggest using the book as a motivational tool first thing each morning and meditating on the questions throughout the day, and perhaps you and I will both find it easier to find joy and purpose – and a new spin at life.

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through BookLookBloggers.com book review program. The opinions I express are my own.

The Christmas Candle by Max Lucado

When I received “The Christmas Candle” by Max Lucado for review, I was surprised to find that it was a novella. I’ve read many nonfiction books by Rev. Lucado. I didn’t know he had ever written fiction. I consider the novella to be a gift book – something short and sweet, the perfect read when you don’t have a lot of time to devote to a full length novel. But don’t assume that because it’s a short read that you won’t have a lovely time reading about the miracles that occur in a small village in Victorian England. Even as I read the book, I thought the story would make a heartwarming holiday movie, and it turns out that it has. Reading this book (and watching the movie) that is less about candles and more about faith and hope would be a wonderful holiday tradition.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Billy Graham in Quotes

The first time I ever heard of an evangelist was when the Billy Graham crusade came to town. Nine years old, I attended a Baptist church at the time and joined the team of volunteers to go door to door and invite people to come. In the years since, I’ve listened to many Billy Graham sermons and even sung in the choir as an adult at one of the last crusades held.

So, I was thoroughly delighted when I received a copy of the book “Billy Graham in Quotes.” If there ever was a man who speaks truthfully and succinctly, it’s the Reverend Billy Graham.  His son, Franklin Graham (who along with Donna Lee Toney compiled the quotes) says the material spans seven decades. What a legacy to have preached for so long! It’s a wonderful tribute to have a son who has amassed his father’s simple statements of Biblical truth on a vast array of subjects. With the book divided alphabetically according to subject, the many topics cover everything from anger and angels to worry and worship.  
 
I highly recommend this book as resource for preachers and teachers or for anyone who wants to read a quote to ponder and meditate on throughout the day.

Disclaimer: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.  

Runaway Emotions by Jeff Schreve

The smoke alarm on the cover of “Runaway Emotions” by Jeff Schreve is symbolic of negative emotions like anger and frustration. They alert us to danger. Just as we wouldn’t hide a fire, the alarms set off by these runaway, negative emotions alert us to the need to manage them, and find out what God is trying to say to us. Schreve uses scriptures liberally in his explanation of how the Bible can help make sense when life seems out of control because we have become overly emotional.

The material in the book has been researched well, explained in depth, and backed up with Biblical insights. I would call reading this book an excellent first step in acknowledging and managing runaway emotions. With the addition of pertinent questions after each chapter to encourage discussion, I could see this being a good study for a teen’s or women’s class.

The author has a wonderful sense of humor while sharing deep spiritual truths using practical examples. The chapter on loneliness was very well explained and helped me better understand the emotion and want to reach out to those who are lonely. Pastor Schreve’s vulnerability while sharing personal accounts was engaging, encouraging me to take this journey past negative emotions to healing and freedom.

* I received this book free from the publisher through the http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Secretly Smitten [Kindle Edition]

Are you too busy to dive into a good novel, but still want to get your fiction fix? Having long periods of time to read is rare for me. That's why I like novellas. And what better book for me than Secretly Smitten - four novellas in one?  

Secretly Smitten is written by Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Denise Hunter, and Diann Hunt.  Each author is successful on her own, and what fun to find their writing all in one book! I liked this collection that tells the story three young women solving a mystery and finding romance along the way. Each author builds on the story and characters and develops the plot line in her own style while staying true to the story as a whole. The small town setting was refreshing as was the sweet romance and light mystery woven through each novella. 

This is actually the second book in the Smitten Series but this could easily be read on its own. I have to say I am looking forward to the next offering by these four talented authors, and reading these shorter stories encourages me to read each author’s books. If you’re looking for a sweet, lighthearted romance with a Christian worldview, then I suggest you check out Secretly Smitten.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Beyond Talent by John C. Maxwell

I LOVE this book. I received this book several months ago, and am normally very quick to read and write reviews when my schedule allows. I have gotten so caught up with the stories, the advice, and the practical tips in this book that I actually forgot I had received it for review. My copy is bookmarked, starred, highlighted, and dog-eared. At the end of each chapter are Application Exercises which have helped me to go beyond the talent I have to excel and achieve. Maxwell is motivating, humorous, and informative. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to take  God-given talent to its full potential. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Eat Your Peas...for Mom by Cheryl Karpen, Illustrated by Sandy Fougner

"Eat Your Peas…for Mom" is labeled a '3-minute forever book' and that is a good estimate of how long it takes to read it. It's short on words, but long on message. In so few pages, the author has managed to convey in 'simple truths and happy insights' how much a mother means. The illustrations are simple but lively and complement the text. I am looking forward to giving this sweet book as a perfect keepsake to my own mom for Mother's Day. The book might be short and sweet, but I believe any mom would cherish this book forever.



Product Details:
Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; Gift edition (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 140418984X
ISBN-13: 978-1404189843
Product Dimensions: 7.2 x 7.2 x 0.5 inches

The Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible - NKJV

Between its covers, The Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible, NKJV: Inspirational Applications for Living Your Faith holds not only the New King James Version of the scriptures, but numerous study guides, helps, devotions, and more.

Life Lessons explain the scriptures and about the time in which they were written along with information about the culture and customs setting the stage for a better understanding of the context. Observations give a short summary of the situation. Inspiration asks, "What is this Word saying to you? How is the Holy Spirit speaking? The Application helps the reader to apply the Word to life and explore changes made in the reader's life after study of the verses. Exploration lists relevant scripture references for further study.

Topical devotions from Max Lucado are throughout. The story of God's plan starts in Genesis and continues through the entire Bible to Revelation. Look for "Christ Through the Bible" sections in both the Old and New Testaments to illuminate God's plan of salvation through Jesus Christ.

With plentiful subheadings and a Bible study and Reading Plan, this study Bible makes a wonderful addition to a new believer's or a mature Christian's library.

Product Details:
Hardcover: 1680 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; 3rd edition (September 7, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1418543969
ISBN-13: 978-1418543969

What In The World Is Going On? by Dr. David Jeremiah

Trying to figure out what is going on this world is difficult. Trying to understand biblical prophecy is difficult. In What in the World Is Going On?, Dr. David Jeremiah has brought the two topics together in a more easily understandable fashion. Dr. Jeremiah gives the reader a well-researched perspective of bible prophecy as it is being fulfilled and maps out what will happen in the future with relevant scriptures.

With well-organized chapters, this book explains the end-times so that the reader can see a clearer picture of how current events are related to prophecy. The author also quotes many other authors, biblical scholars and scientists. As a Bible teacher, I so enjoyed the book that I tackled teaching its contents. I have been blessed as I read and then taught from this book, bringing hope in Jesus Christ and the reminder that God is on control. I recommend this book to anyone seeking a better understanding of current events in light of biblical eschatology.

Product Details:
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (August 10, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 078523117X
ISBN-13: 978-0785231172

His Name Is Jesus - The Promise of God's Love Fulfilled by Max Lucado

His Name Is Jesus – The Promise of Love Fulfilled by Max Lucado is a beautifully packaged gift book with a cardboard sleeve to protect it. Wonderful photos and backgrounds complement the text. If you've read any of Mr. Lucado's writings before, you know he writes in language easily understood, yet lyrical in its delivery. There are many excerpts from Mr. Lucado's best-selling books.

The book starts with the question, "Who is He?" and then begins to explore all the reasons Jesus came, the circumstances of His birth, and the environment of His life. We find out what the city where Jesus grew up is like and can more easily picture Him growing up.

I'm a visual person, so the lovely artwork and photos kept me turning pages to savor the writing and the layout. I'd highly recommend this book to give as a gift to someone or to keep for your own enjoyment. Why not give this along with the basket of candy and eggs on Resurrection Sunday? Or next Christmas, give this wonderful book to your family. I can picture a dad reading this to his family, or using this book to read to children before bedtime. Or really, anyone anytime.

Product Details:
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (March 17, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1404186735
ISBN-13: 978-1404186736

Rick & Bubba's Big Honkin' Book of Grub

A cookbook with bacon and Spam? Not often these days! With everyone so health-conscious, Rick and Bubba are definitely out of the norm. I wouldn't categorize Rick & Bubba's Big Honkin' Book of Grub as a cookbook anyway. It's more like a comedy book with a few recipes thrown in. They give their take on food, fairs, and festivals and live to eat, rather than eat to live. These guys love food. Most of the recipes are easily made with a few readily available ingredients. I didn't see one call for fancy mushrooms (canned will do) or fancy cheeses. A couple recipes even call for plain ol' American cheese.

If you're seriously looking for a cookbook, you'll be disappointed. If you like Rick and Bubba's brand of comedy, you'll be pleased with their book. It's a fun read with a few down-home recipes thrown in.

Rick & Bubba's Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage by Rick Burgess & Bill "Bubba" Bussey

The way Rick and Bubba see it, "marriage wasn't meant to be perfect. It was to teach us how to love an imperfect person perfectly." And it cuts both ways. Their stated goal in writing the book is that you look at your marriage with new eyes. Appreciate what you have.

Although Martha Bolton helped translate Rick and Bubba's radio humor to the page, it still seems aimed mostly at men. Thin-skinned women might even be offended by some of the jokes. The text is a little disjointed as you get to read from Rick, Bubba's, and sometimes even their wives' point of view. Perhaps keeping each chapter to one person might have helped, but even more helpful is the CD included with the book. By listening to the radio program, I was able to get a better handle on each man's personality. And I laughed, no – guffawed, several times while listening.

What I found most refreshing about the book was hearing from two men who love God and their wives and speak reverently about marriage. They clearly love and respect their wives, even if they don't always understand them – and therein lies the abundant source of humor. Sprinkled amidst all the jokes, you'll find some sound advice. I especially appreciated the chapter called "Enemies of the Mate" and the "Top Ten Comebacks for People Who Tell You to Give Up on Your Marriage." This chapter delivers, giving the most guidance as promised in the title – Rick and Bubba's Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage.

Product Details:
Paperback: 240 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; Pap/Com edition (June 2, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1401603998
ISBN-13: 978-1401603991

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Find Your Strongest Life by Marcus Buckingham

What does it mean to 'have it all'? In the introduction to Find Your Strongest Life, Marcus Buckingham gives his definition and shares his 'secret' to living a strong life. In Part 1, he identifies reasons woman aren't living lives to their fullest potential. In Part 2, you'll start to learn how to live, not just a strong life, but your strongest life, what that will look like, and identify the role you were born to play with advice on finding your own strengths and then work with what you've got. Part 3 consists of 'Strong Life Tactics" for different types of relationships. At the end of every chapter is a section called "What to Take Away from this Chapter" with a list to help the reader review and contemplate the information. Many self-help books give a set formula. The Strong Life Test makes this book helpful for women in all kinds of roles with advice customized for each type of woman. I like the methodical way Buckingham lays out prevalent problems and then shares solutions step by step.

What I don't like is the absence of the true source of strength – a relationship with Jesus Christ. I'm surprised Thomas Nelson published this book. If you're looking for a Christian perspective, it is noticeably absent here. The author advises women to find their own strengths, and while that advice may be good, it is far from complete. Where is the advice to find your God-given strengths while relying on Him to help you live your best life?

If you're looking for an analytical approach to your role as a woman, you might find that Mr. Buckingham's book has merit, but if you're looking for a spiritually uplifting approach, keep looking.

Product Details:
Hardcover: 288 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 29, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1400202361
ISBN-13: 978-1400202362

Preview the book.

Fearless by Max Lucado

The world is reeling and many people are struggling with gut-wrenching fear. Fearless by Max Lucado addresses the causes of these fears and provides gentle, but firm reminders of ways to eliminate fear. Max Lucado has a reassuring tone in his writing that is perfect to tackle this subject. Sometimes he uses humor to make his point. At all times, he uses scriptures to support his opinions.

I appreciate it that the book has a discussion guide for groups that can also be used by individuals for a deeper study of the principles in the book. I cannot imagine a more timely book. I recommend Fearless for anyone who wants to turn fear into faith.

Product Details:
Hardcover: 224 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 8, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0849921392
ISBN-13: 978-0849921391

The I Believe Bunny by Tish Rabe, Illustrated by Frank Endersby

The I Believe Bunny is a delightful children's picture book based on the Bible verse Philippians 4:13 (NIV): I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

The main character, Bunny, must come to the aid of a mouse in trouble. Because he feels small and inadequate, he calls on God to help him. He discovers that God answers his prayer in an unexpected way.

It's a bit odd that the characters don't have names and I found the rhymes a bit 'off' in a couple of places, but that didn't detract significantly from the story. Children are sure to learn that, no matter how big or small they are, they can call on God and He hears them when they pray. In the story, the answer comes quickly. This book would be a great way to talk about all the ways God answers prayer and about God's timing, too.

The pastel illustrations by Frank Endersby reminded me of Beatrix Potter – very sweet and endearing. These combined with a story on faith makes this book an ideal bedtime story to read before nighttime prayers.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (July 14, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1400314763
ISBN-13: 978-1400314768

The Noticer by Andy Andrews

I'm still mulling over the messages in this book, and trying to figure out into which category it fits. Is it autobiographical or only written so it feels like it? I know the book has a cleverly written marketing plan attached to it (http://www.thenoticerproject.com/), but the book's message is different from the project. In the book, an older man, Jones or The Noticer, helps people see life from a different perspective. The idea behind the project is more a message of thanks to those who've made a positive difference. I suppose the idea behind both is to 'notice' the people around you and the events that brought you to your station in life. The book is filled with inspirational life lessons and advice leading the reader to ponder, "What does it mean to have a 'successful life'?

Gaining a new perspective on your life can be wonderful, but it doesn't mean simply looking at it in a new way can solve your problems. I'm afraid the book touted a simplistic solution. Jones advises people to read the biographies of successful people, yet fails to mention the Bible as a source of wisdom and encouragement.

As a Christian and because this book came from a 'Christian publisher,' I would have expected to see more emphasis on serving God, believing in Jesus, and allowing the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom for that 'new perspective' that is so blatantly preached throughout the book.

The Noticer is a quick read and delivers a positive, if clichéd message. I'm not sure your life will be changed significantly by reading this book, but you won't regret the leisurely read with pleasant characters.

Product Details:
Hardcover: 176 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (April 28, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0785229213
ISBN-13: 978-0785229216

To read a personal note written by Andy Andrews and sent to a reviewer in reponse to questions about The Noticer, visit Maria Keckler's blog at Writing to Serve.net. Reading Andy’s note might give you some insights about perspective. Click logo.

In the Footsteps of Paul by Ken Duncan

As I study the Bible, the characters seem larger than life. It's easy to forget they were ordinary people who did extraordinary things in the power of God. The apostle Paul was an educated man who made tents – a trade that allowed him to earn money as he traveled to preach the gospel.

In his book, In the Footsteps of Paul, Ken Duncan leads us along Paul's path starting from his birth in Tarsus to his conversion on the road to Damascus, as he continued his ministry, and all the way to his death.

Crisp vivid pictures take us on a photographic tour. Harbors from which Paul would have sailed, roads he trekked, and arches he traveled through are brought to life in the photos and breathe new life into the Biblical passages that relate the details of Paul's journey through the Mediterranean on his way to Rome. Quotes by C.S. Lewis, Rev. Billy Graham, and many more along with passages by the apostle himself guide us along the way.

For anyone who loves God's Word, In the Footsteps of Paul brings new dimension to Apostle Paul's writings and his extraordinary life.

Product Details:
Hardcover: 176 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; 1 edition (March 17, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1404104828
ISBN-13: 978-1404104822

This Is Your Brain on Joy by Dr. Earl Henslin

I thought a book about the brain might be dry and technical. Wrong. Dr. Earl Henslin writes This Is Your Brain on Joy with a splendid sense of humor. He poses a question in Chapter One for people of faith. Why should anyone want what we believe if it doesn't make us deeply, joyful people? It took ten years of research before the good doctor felt ready to share his findings. In this book, he offers specific therapies for specific problems. Dr. Henslin's treatment plans include recommendations for supplements, medications, foods, music, exercise, and even cinematherapy. To round out the program, he includes scriptures and prayers to nurture spiritual growth.

Dr. Henslin explains the treatment plans and how the brain works in everyday language. Photos, diagrams, and charts are helpful and using alliteration and clever names for complex scientific terms helped me better understand the process. The entire program is designed so that you can begin today to change your brain into a happier, more peaceful one – a brain on joy.

Product Details:
Hardcover: 240 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 078522873X
ISBN-13: 978-0785228738

Word of Promise: Next Generation - New Testament Dramatized Audio Bible MP3 Set

I began my listening with the second chapter of Luke. The music in the background is pleasing and appropriate for each verse, subsiding and swelling with dramatic interpretation. The young actors read the International Children's Bible translation, which simplifies some of the more complex wording in the New Testament. For instance, Luke 2:7 reads, "she wrapped the baby with cloths and laid him in a box where animals were fed." When the angels sing with joy, many voices read the text, which is very effective.

Although I'm used to a booming voice reading scripture, I'm certain this version makes the Bible seem more relevant to many younger listeners. I didn't recognize the names of some of the narrators like Corbin Bleu, Cody Linley, Luke Benward, Charlie Stewart, and Tahj Mowry, but I'm sure your children will. The sound effects and all-start cast kept me engaged and eager to hear what came next. Included with the readings is a 40-day Listening program. The set includes 24 hours of audio drama on 3 mp3 CDs and a bonus 75 minute Behind-the-Scenes DVD featuring interviews with the actors. Although marketed for the younger crowd, I enjoyed listening to the recordings. I especially recommend Word of Promise: Next Generation New Testament if you're looking for a way to get your kids to enjoy listening to the Bible.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 9-12
MP3 CD
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; MP3 edition (November 18, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1400313309
ISBN-13: 978-1400313303

Chronological Study Bible - New King James Version (Thomas Nelson)

The Chronological Study Bible – New King James Version (Thomas Nelson) is laid out beautifully. With dates at the top of the page, the text is divided into none 'epochs' making it convenient to turn to the table of contents to find an event. Time Charts and Time Panels break down each epoch into more specific categories. If an event has no fixed date, it is placed with related events. Absolute chronology is provided for events with fixed dates. This makes it easy for a reader to place Biblical history into the context of world history.

I appreciated the introduction to each epoch with information about archeology, literature, people and groups of people, and more. The transitions into each section flow smoothly with thorough background information and relevant and interesting facts presented. Snippets about science and technology, and daily life and customs, and time capsules kept me aware of historical context. A concordance and colorful maps round out the abundant resources.

I chose to read about Jesus' final week in Jerusalem often called "Passion Week." I was most interested in reading the details of each day in order. It took some getting used to because I would first read Matthew's account followed by Mark's and Luke's, but fascinating to read about Jesus from each disciple's perspective. The notes on politics and government helped me understand in a more profound way the persecution from religious authorities that Jesus endured. I now understand, appreciate, and see Passion Week in a completely new light.

If you are looking for a specific Bible passage, turn to the Index of Scripture Passages in the back of the Bible. I must say, though, that this Bible is more for students of Scripture who want to feel like they were there, living in Bible times. All the extras in this Bible round out your experience and place Biblical events in context. You'll feel as if you're crossing through the wilderness with the Israelites or walking the streets with Jesus, watching Him save, heal, and deliver.

I like this layout very much, and highly recommend this Bible.

Product Details:
Hardcover: 1728 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (October 14, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0718020685
ISBN-13: 978-0718020682