Random Ramblings of A Reader and Writer: June 2014

Monday, June 30, 2014

Book Review: Love Comes Calling

Love Comes Calling
Siri Mitchell
Copyright 2014

Head with me back in time to the 1920s where we will meet Ellis Eton whose greatest ambition is to be an actress. Soon Ellis finds herself filling in for her friend Janie who had to take some time off to go back home for her Mothers funeral. Ellis cannot deny her friend the help so she agrees but she must quicly learn what the job entails.

Soon Ellis is finding out that being a "Hello Girl" as they called telephone operators is not all its cut out to be. In fact sometimes it's downright dangerous especially when you hear things your not supposed to hear.

Ellis seems to be an expert at getting into all sorts of trouble. But when the man she loves is in danger she manages to come to the rescue.

Ellis may have trouble concentrating and she may find herself in danger from time to time but she slowly dtarts realizing she cant work to please everyone else.

Five out of five stars...

Book Review: Finding Love At Home

Finding Love At Home
Jerry Eichler
Copyright 2014

Jerry Eichler once again gives us a look into the lives of Amish.

In this book we get to see how Debbie who has always wanted to be part of the plain community deals with her neighbors the Beilers. We learn how she saves Paul life when an accident leaves him nearly bleeding to death and how she reminds him that if a woman truly loves a man it will not matter ifvthey have a prostetic arm. We see how she deals with it when the man she thought she loved decides to take a girl born into the Amish community over her.

Finding Love At Home gives us glimpse both into the heartbreaks and the loves found in the Amish vommunity. We come to see that though our lifestyles maybe different both Amish and Rnglish deal with both the heartbreaks and joys of life.

I give this book five out of five stars.

Head off with me to discover the adventures found in one Amish Community.

Pull up a comfy chair and a beverage of your choose...

Happy Reading. ..

Book Review: No Place to Hide

No Place to Hide
A Brain Surgeon’s Long Journey Home from the Iraq War
W. Lee Warren
Copyright 2014

No Place to Hide is the powerful true story of a Brain Surgeon’s journey in the Iraq war. This book offers a candid account of the things he saw.

W.Lee Warren talks openly about some of the injuries he saw from IEDs as well as other war related injuries he talks about how he had to get used to working in a first class hospital in the states to working in war conditions in Iraq.

In this book W. Lee shares a few emails home when he talks about the bad guys trying to get in despite 12 feet concrete walls and several check points one time they almost get in but are stopped so they blow themselves uo injuring others in the process but had they got in the damage would bhave been so much worse.

We learn how Doctor Warren not only cared for Soldiers who were injured but Iraqui citizens as well some were the children of those who were simply wanting to vote and some were the bombers themselves.

Doctor Warren later goes to share of the nightmares that PTSD caused once he got home from the war, how even his children were acutely aware of how the war had chaged him, but we also see a lot of hope in this very real story of the lives saved because he served his country.

Five out of five stars...

Sunday, June 29, 2014

Book Review: Pieces Of Someday

Pieces of Someday
One Woman's Search for Meaning in Lawyering, Family, Italy, Church, and a Tiny Jewish High School
Jan Vallone
Copyright 2013

In Pieces of Some Jan Vallone shares what it was like growing up with a perfectionist Father. We learn of Jan's desire to please her Father by trying yo follow the path he choose for her, but also she shows us how unsatisfied that makes her feel. It tells of how she spent years not feeling satisfied in her career as an attorney until she realizes what she really desires is to be an English Teacher. She loved reading and did some writing growing up. After her daughter struggles through school though she begins to realize her desire to be a teacher.

Becoming a teacher seemed to be a natural progression for her perhaps it was because her Mother wss a teacher but it was also something deeper than that.

We learn to of how she and her husband Mark adopt two kids after she is unable to get pregnant first Cristin then Sean.

Jan shares about how out of place she felt sometimes growing up in a mostly Jewish neighborhood and going to a school that was mostly Jewish despite being Italian Catholic but she would later come to teach in a Jewish High School.

I give this book five out of five stars for its candid honesty and its in depth look at one womans struggle to find who she is.

Saturday, June 28, 2014

Book Review: Hiding Places

Hiding Places

A Memoir from the Pirate Princess of Tybee Island

Deborah Elizabeth Merriman

Hiding Places is the powerful story of a girl who searches for Hiding Places to get away from the abusive stepmother who is raising her after her fathers Mother seems to agree with the step Mother that fhinks this little girl is the product of devil worship that she is crazy in some way when a counselor suggests that perhaps the Step Mother is unbalanced. The Step mother storms out of the hospital.

Deborah Elizabeth goes to live with her Grandparents, and finds at least some love and acceptance from her Grandfather but her Grandmother seems to think that she is trouble and she always has to worry about being punished. Deborah finds escape in hrr Hiding Places and her pretend games.

Deborah moved back in with her Stepmother and Father just before she started fifth grade. She was able to go to the same school because they only lived two miles from her grandparents. She would endure several years of Mama Jos extreme punishments her mood swings until she was seventeen and went to go live with her Dad and his third wife the firstntime she was not made to feel like a burden.

Some books just have a way of sticking with you long after the pages are closed and Hiding Places is one of those books.

Five out of five stars.

Book Review: Sisters of Lazarus

Sisters of Lazarus
Beauty Unveiled
Paula K. Parker
Copyright 2013

In Sisters Of Lazarus we are given a fictionalized account of Lazarus sisters Mary and Martha. This book deals with the issues of self worth Mary and Martha dealt with.

Sisters of Lazarus Beauty Unveiled show just how different these sisters were how at odds they were but more than that it is a reminder that the Lord does not judge by physical appearance but by the persons spirit.

Five out of five stars.

Happy Reading. ..

Book Review: Thrive

Thrive
Digging Deep, Reaching Out
Mark Hall
Copyright 2014

Mark Hall reminds us that God does not only want us to survive but in order to do that we must dig deep and reach out. We are also reminded that God has bigger dreams for us then we do.

In Thrive we are reminded that God has a plan for our lives but it is up to us to respond in obedience. Hall reminds us to that Satan is constantly trying to change what we believe he is trying to place doubt in our hearts. We are reminded to that we cannot Thrive unless our minds are renewed.

We are reminded too that when we Thrive in the Lord we will have to face oppressors. We are reminded too that Satan is going to try and attack our communication with God because he knows the damage that will cause.

Thrive is a great book for new believers and believers who are working to Thrive with the help of the Lord.

Five out of five stars.

Book Review: What Makes A Leader Great

What Makes a Leader Great
Discover the One Key That Makes the Difference
Russ Crosson
Copyright 2014

Early on in this book an all important reminder is pointed out and that is being a leader is not about you. Leaders are not put in leadership by themselves but the best leaders are the ones led into that role by God.

This book is an important tool for both current leaders and future leaders. It points out the qualities that make a good leader and the pitfalls for leaders to avoid.

If you feel the Lord is leading you to be a leader or you are slready a leader than What Makes A Leader Great Is a book I would highly recommend.

Five out of five stars...

Friday, June 27, 2014

Book Review: Chronic Pain

Chronic Pain
Finding Hope in the Midst of Suffering
Rob Prince
Copyright 2014

This book deals with a subject matter I can certainly relate to and that is what it is like to live with Chronic pain. Rob Prince does not sugarcoat what it is like to live with Chronic Pain but nor does he make it sound hopeless. He does remind us that the Lord still does heal.

I like how this book gives a prrsonalized account of what living with Chronic Pain is like while still pointing out everyone had different kinds of Chronic Pain and deals with it differently.

I give this book five out of five stars.

Book Review: Mercy Rising

Mercy Rising
Amber Robinson
Copyright 2010

This book talks about an important subject the subject matter that being the simple ways we can practics justice and compassion in a more and more injust society.

The Social Injustices pointed out in this book from poverty to sex trafficking is very real. We learn in 2004 around 35 million Americans went hungry. A scary but very real statistic.

Thid book has a list of important resources and gives very real practical ways yoh can help.

Five out of five stars.

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Book Review: Seeker of Stars

Seeker of Stars
Susan Fish
Copyright 2013

Melechoir always loved the stars being born to a rug maker they believed that was one day what he would be. Melechoirs Father does not want him to become an astromer at first but after an injury while rug making his Father reluctantly lets him go.

While Melechoir is following the star he finds himself reflecting on his life, his family and everything he has done.

This is a Christmas story with a different ring but it is still a very good story thats message rings true throughout the year.

Five out of five stars.

Hapoy Reading

Michelle

Book Review: The God Who Walks Beside Us

The God Who Walks Beside Us
David Roper
Copyright 2013

This brief book is full of wisdom. It is a reminder that no matter what you have been through or what you have done God knows and he can still use you.

In a few pages this book gives you some encouraging words of wisdom.

Five out of five stars...

Book Review: Kiriath's Quest

Kiriath's Quest
Rick Barry
Copyright 2008

For those who like fantasy I think Kiriath's Quest will fit the bill.

Prince Kiriath and his father King Jekoniah are being attacked by Grishnaki. Prince Kiriath has escaped but King Jekoniah has not fared as well. Xandria is given a week to meet the Grishnakis demand or they will kill the king. Kiriath and his friend Brand devide to go rescue King Jekoniah.

Will Prince Kiriath and his friend be able to rescue King Jekoniah or will they all be killed in the attempt?

The adventure in this book is non stop.

For young and old Fantasy lovers Kiriath's Quest is a must read.

Five out of five stars.

Happy Reading

Michelle

Book Review: The Isobel Journal

The Isobel Journal
Just a Northern Girl from Where Nothing Really Happens
Isobel Harrop
Copyright 2014 Uk

In this graphic novel we get an illustrated gimpse into the life of a teenage girl. Isobel is a teenage girl from the UK who we get to know in this mini graphic novel. We learn about her likes and dislikes and get a glimpse into her life.

This book talks about everything from the music and baby animals Isobel likes to friendship and love even breaking up.

Teenage fans of the graphic novel will enjoy The Isobel Journal.

Four out of five stars...

Book Review: The Pullman Porter

The Pullman Porter
Written by Vanita Oelschlager
Illustrated by Mike Blanc
Copyright 2014

This wonderful children's book teaches children about the Pullman Porter. Children learn in this book that the first Pullman sleeping car was built in 1857 and that after the slaved were freed following the Civil war George Pullman hired the best and brightest former slaves.

Porters became the most respected men of their communities. Children will learn that Porters served many functions from maid to nurse and much more. The book speaks of both the benefits as well as the hardships The Pullman Porter dealt with.

The text of this book is wonderful but the beautiful illustrations will draw children as well.

Five out of five stars.

Book Review: Selah

Selah
Studying God's Songbook
Betty Henderson
Copyright 2014

This little study book on the book of Psalms would make a great addition to a study of the Psalms whether for individual study or group study.

This book was broken into twelve lessons the worksheets questions throughout the chapters allow for an in depth personalized study of the Psalms.

I give five out of five stars for this wonderful little study book on Psalms so go ahead and delve deeper into the Psams...

Book Review: 10 Lifesaving Principles for Women in Difficult Marriages

10 Lifesaving Principles for Women in Difficult Marriages
Revised and Updated
Karla Downing
Copyright 2013

Originally published in 2003 this Revised and Updated version of 10 Lifesaving Principles for Women in Difficult Marriages is a must read for women who are suffering through difficult marriages.

This book points out the different kind of difficulties in marriage as well as it encourages women going through difficult marriages to seek out help. This book reminds us women who are going through difficult marriages to admit their part in the problem.

Downing points out the importance of women who are going through a difficult time to take care of themselves both physically and mentally.

All in all I would say this is an important book for women who are going through difficult marriages.

Five out of five stars...

Book Review: A Simple Crossroads

A Simple Crossroads
Rosalind Lauer
Copyright 2013

Lizzy King has been married to a wonderful man for five years but her heart grieves over a child she miscarried early in her pregnancy. Lizzy King works with her husband Joe at the marketplace as well as her friend Rosalind who was the one that called 911 when Lizzy miscarried.

I was really pleased with this boom it was a quick read but very well written with a good plot.

Five out of five stars.

Happy Reading

Michelle

Book Review: Taking God At His Word

Taking God At His Word

Why the Bible Is Knowable, Necessary, and Enough, and What That Means for You and Me

Kevin DeYoung

DeYoung reminds us that the longest poem in the Bible Psalm 119 is about the Bible is the Bible itself. This book is not a personal Bible study but a book that tells you what the Bible saying about the Bible.

This book gives us the all important reminder that God is enough. We are reminded that Gods word is necessary and true. The importance of studying and memorizing God's word is also pointed out.

Taking God At His Word is annimportant addition to your Christian library.

Five out of five Stars.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Book Review: Jesus or Nothing

Jesus or Nothing
Dan Dewitt
Copyright 2014

This book geared toward the non believer helps to show them that loving Jesus is not only plausible but it is doable. This book points out that some xecularists live good lives and sadly not all Christians live as their Savior would have them live but it also points out the importance ov the decision to accept Christ.

This is a great book to share with high school or college age students who are struggling to understand what faith is. It would be a great book for those who do not quite understand what being a Christian is.

Jesus or Nothing is an invaluable tool for highschool or college graduates who are struggling with what they believe or with their lack of belief.

Five out of five stars.

Book Review: Streaks of Blue

Streaks of Blue
How the Angels of Newtown Inspired One Girl to Save Her School
Jack Chaucer
Copyright 2013

Nikki has a dream while camping out with her best friend she dreams of an outcast named Adam shoots up there school. Nikki soon decides she needs to befriend Adam who is a loner who comes from a broken home. He lost his Mom to a drug overdose three years prior. Her best friend Candace worries when she decides to go to the lake with him.

Soon Nikki has made friends with Adam but he slips her LSD in a sugar cube before detention making her realize maybe she should not trust him.

Adam and his friend Thomas Harvey make plans to shoot up the school to protest their explosion but when Adam realizes how wrong he is Thomas decides to shoot him and Nikki. Because Nikki has gone to look for Adam who she finds out received bad news his Father is dying.

Will Nikki's concern for a friend get her killed?

Four out of five stars.

Happy Reading

Michelle

Book Review: Trouble Comes Knocking

Trouble Comes Knocking
Mary Duncanson
Copyright 2013

Lucy has a photographic memory, she does not forget which is more trouble to her than a blessing.

There is a level of romance to this novel because Lucy has serious feelings for John but it certainly is not the central theme.

This book shows us just how muuch trouble Lucys Photographic memory brings her.

Will her gift put friends and loved ones in danger?

Find out by reading Trouble Comes Knocking by Mary Duncanson.

Four out of five stars.

Happy Reading.

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Book Review: A Plain Man

A Plain Man
Mary Ellis
Copyright 2014

Hello Fellow Readers would you like to journey with me to Ohio? Just pick up A Plain Man by Mary Ellis and off we go.

Sarah is relieved when her brother comes back to there Amish community after five years for part of that time he was on his Rumpspringa. Caleb still has friends from his time in the Englisch world and finds it hard to let some things in the life he had before he came back to the Amish world.

Csleb is happy to be back home especially happy to reunite with his teenage love Josie Yoder.

Will Caleb be able to stay with his plain lifestyle or will he ho back to the Englisch world he was part of for five years?

Will Caleb and Josie Yoder get married and live happily ever after?

Five out of five stars for an amazing book.

Happy Reading Friends

Michelle

Book Review: You're Going to Be Okay

You're Going to Be Okay
Encouraging Truth Your Heart Needs to Hear,
Especially on the Hard Days
Holly Gerth
Copyright 2014

You're Going to Be Okay is an important read for anyone who is struggling with hard times. It is a reminder that we are not defined by what we are going through because that will change but who God created us to be is eternal.

This book points out another important fact Stress is not meant to be a lifestyle we are reminded that God has putbus here for a purpose only we can achieve and that purpose is not spending our lives worrying.

We are reminded as well that no matter what we are going through no matter what struggles we have in life God's love for us remains the same.

This is an important book for anyone who is going through a difficult time.

Five out of five stars.

Book Review: The Making Of A Prophet

Making of a Prophet, The
Practical Advice for Developing Your Prophetic Voice
Jennifer Leclaire
Copyright 2014

The Making of A Prophet is an important book for those who are called into the prophetic ministry. It reminds us prophecy is not fortune tellers or psychics who pretend to know our future. This book reminds those who are called into Prophetic ministry that modern day prophets are called to prepare people for the Lord by leading them to a more intimate relationship with our Savior.

Jennifer Leclaire points out those in the ministry will deal with bouts of extreme Spiritual warfare. It also points out that some may not be ready to accept your calling.

This book is an important read for anyone who is led into the prophetic ministry.

Five out of five stars...

Monday, June 23, 2014

Book Review: Maybelle In Stitches

Maybelle in Stitches
Quilts of Love Series
Joyce Magnin
Copyright 2014

Maybelle In Stitches takes us back to World War Two where Maybelle works as a welderette. Her husband Holden is off fighting the war and she misses him like crazy. Her job as a welder keeps her busy and helps her to feel as if she is doing her part for the war effott.

Maybelle begins to feel serious concern when time passes and she is forced to deal with her Mothers sudden death without Holden.

While going through her Mothers things she finds a quilt her Mother had started for her before she died and telks her friend Doriss about the quilt and Doriss encourages her to finish it the only problem is she does not know how to sew and shes not hurt her heart is in it because not only is her Mother dead but she received a telegram saying her husband was missing in action. Doriss insists working on the quily is important and that a long with her faith will help her through this. Doriss even organizes friends to help.

Soon it is Doriss who receives news of her husband Michael's death in the line of duty and Maybelle is the one helping her through now. Making this quilt will help to serve as a way to heal for both of them.

The end of this wonderful story will leave you pleasantly surprised I know it did me and the entire book is a great read so I would recommend you get your copy of Maybelle In Stitches ASAP.

Five out of five stars.

Happy Reading. ..

Book Review: Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe
The Fever Called Living
Paul Collins
Copyright 2014

We are reminded in Edgar Allan Poe The Fever Called Living that Edgar Allan Poes Reputation was not earned because of tragedy but inspite of it. He carefully crafted his words.

Poe's first book received no reviews but he did have the satisfaction of finally being published.

In this brief biography we are shown how Poe often lived in extreme poverty and lived with the demons that would lead to his suicide in 1848.

Five out of five stars.

Book Review: Schools of Hope

SCHOOLS OF HOPE
How Julius Rosenwald Helped Changed African American Education
Norman H. Finklestein
Copyright 2014

This book introduces us to Julius Rosenwald a well established Jewish buissness man who saw that whites and blacks were equal and should be given an equal education.

Julius Rosenwald opened schools for the Colored schools that would provide them with an education unlike they had before. The Rosenwald schools offered a proper and education unlike they had never known before.

This book shows of a man who was ahead of his time in his determination to build better schools for Coloreds.

Five out of five stars....

Book Review: Messages to Myself

Messages to Myself
Overcoming a Distorted Self-Image
Helen B. McIntosh
Copyright 2009

Epub edition 2014

Messages to Myself is an important allbeit brief book to anyone who has suffered anyform of depression. This book is an important reminder that words do have the power to hurt and it also encourages us to write about past hurts. We are encouraged to use healthy self talk and to encourage our children to do the same and to look to the Bible to remind us that we are created in Gods image.

I like how we are encouraged to keep a truth chart as well. This book is full of postive reinforcements that will help us to have a better self image.

I would recommend Messages to Myself for anyone who needs encouragement.

Five out of five stars...

Book Review: Nick the Saint

Nick the Saint
Anthony Szpak
Copyright 2013

Nick is orphaned after an accident and is taken in by Fergus who forces him to work from the time he can walk. When Nick meets a girl named Maggie and tries to run away with her Fergus accuses him of kidnapping and hebis sent to prison on Rykers Island when he is released he is determined to try and put a stop to the forced child labor.

Nick wants to put a stop to Fergus Crank and the way he forces children to work in such horrible condition and he wants politicans to pass a law stopping this from happening but Fergus has the police and the mayor in his back pocket.

When things stop going Fergus way he is determined to put a stop to it even if it means many workers including children are killed and he plans to frame Nick for the crime.

I give this powerful novel about a man determined to make a difference five out of five stars.

Happy Reading

Michelle

Book Review: The Family of Jesus

The Family of Jesus
Karen Kingsbury
Copyright 2014

The Family of Jesus gives us a fictionalized account of Jesus's family. We see Joseph as a loving protective Stepfather who does everything he can to help Jesus while he is alive.

We are introduced to Zechariah who was Jesus's uncle and the Father of his Cousin John the Baptist, and we get a brirf glimpse into the life of Jesus's bcousin John the Baptist who would later Baptize Jesus and eventually be beheaded. We learn about Jesus's Aunt Elizabeth JJohn's Mother and get a glimpse of what she went through when her Son was imprisoned for his faith. I like how this book takes us back to the lives of his doubting brother James and his devoted Mother Marry.

Being a fan of both Karen Kingsbury and Biblical Fiction I found this book to be a great read. I also loved how Kingsbury incorporated a Bible Study into this wonderful work of fiction.

Five out of Five Stars.

Happy Reading

Michelle

Sunday, June 22, 2014

Book Review: The Underground Girls of Kabul

The Underground Girls of Kabul
In Search of a Hidden Resistance in Afghanistan
Jenny Nordberg
Copyright 2014

The Underground Girls of Kabul takes us into the lives of a people who hold sons in a higher esteem than daughters. The woman of Kabul deal with segragation belittlement and are treated as second class citizens. Woman are to dress modestly covering all but their face when they leave the house.

When a woman gives birth to a boy she is celebrated given gifts and treated like royalty but a woman giving birth to a girl child can be beaten locked outside for days and made to live with the animals.

Girls often go hungry in Afghanistan because it is rwasoned that it is more important to feed Sons than daughters.

Sometimes in this society parents pass off their daughters as sons for as long as they can.

Investigative journalist Jenny Nordberg helps to give us a better understanding of the lives of Woman and girls in Afghanistan. This book does point out the fact that dome changes are being made in the way women are treated but those changes are very slow.

Five stars for a book that will give you a better understanding of the woman of Afghanistan.

Book Review: The Top Secret Diary of Celie Valentine

The Top Secret Diary of Celi Valentine
Book One Friendship Over
Julie Sternberg
Copyright 2014

Celi Valentine is given a journal fof her tenth birthday and in it she chronicles her life the life of a ten year old.

Celi is going through a difficult time her best friend has stopped talking to her and she does not know why and her Grandmother id forgetting things so hef Mom has to take her for tests.

I think girls will like the diary style of this book as well as the illustrations. The book talks about a young ten year old girls very real stories.

Five out of five stars.

Happy Reading

Book Review: Travels With Gannon and Wyatt Greenland

Travels With Gannon and Wyatt
Greenland
Patti Wheeler, Keith Hemstreet
Copyright 2014

If you have a child between 8 and twelve who loves adventure stories then Travels With Gannon and Wyatt would be a book to have.

In this book Gannon and Wyatt travel to Greenland where nothing is actualy green.

In this book Gannon and Wyatt face being hunted by a Polar Bear when they are going sledding with the dogs. It talks about the extreme cold they face. Somehow Wyatt gets stranded in the storm and it is only because his giide risks his life that he manages to survive because he nearly did die of hypothermia.

I give five out of five stars for this adventure packed Childrens Novel.

Happy Reading...

Book Review: Bella Italia

Bella Italia
Suzzanne Vermeer
Copyright 2014

This book is written in a very simplistic easy to read style.

A young boy is murdered during a camping trip. A homeless man is caught near the body and believed to be guilty of the crime. A relatively short time later another little boy is killed on the same campgrounds.

Who is guilty of these murders is it the homeless man or someone else all together?

Four out of five Stars for Bella Italia a book that will leave you guessing.

Happy Reading...

Book Review: Up For Sale

Up For Sale
Human Trafficking and Modern Day Slavery
Allison Marie Behnke

Up For Sale is a book that we should not have a need for because Slavery should have died long ago but sadly that is not the case.

Slavery today goes by a fifferent name it goes by the name human trafficking and it is anywhere from a 30 t 45 billion dollar a year industry.

Up For Sale details the different kinds of trafficking and it gives some pretty sobering statisticks.

Five Stars for this important book...

Book Review: How to Write Anything

How to Write Anything is a collection of invaluable articles fof authors snd students alike. This book covrrs everything from writing the Personal Essay to writing text messages an even shows you how to properly write a thank you message.

Laura Brown puts together a book evrry household shoulf hsve a book that shows you how to anf how not to craft everything from a Wedding Announcement to a personal blog. It covers everything from organizing to writing the final draft.

Brown includes a section on writing and notetaking fof both High School and College students. There is even sections in this boom that show us how to avoid Plagarism.

What makes How to Write Anything such an invaluable too for anyone it does not only show you how to write but it shows you how not to write.

Five Stars for this invaluable book.

Book Review: Women of the Word

Women of the Word
How to Study the Word with Both Our Hearts and Minds
Jen Wilkin
Copyright 2014

Jen Wilkin encourages us to have a well rounded Bible Study a Bible study that allows us to grow deeper in the Lord.

Women Of the Word encourages us to become more Bible Literate and to be patient in our study in the word.

Most importantly we are reminded that Bible Study needs to be about seeking Gods face.

Five stars for an invaluable tool to add to your library.

Book Review: An Amish Garden

An Amish Garden
Beth Wiseman, Tricia Goyer, Kathleen Fuller, Vannetta Chapman
Copyright 2014

An Amish Garden is a collection of four novels thst center around the Amish Garden.

Beth Wiseman writes about Rosemary who has been in love with Saul for years despite breaking up with him years before. When an accident in the family leads her to need help with the Gardsn it is Saul who helps her with the task. Soon Rosemary realizes she never stopped loving him.

In Flowers for Rachel by Kathleen Fuller, Rachel is busy carrying for her sick Grandfather and her Garden when a secret admirer starts planting pretty flowers all around her love leaving her to wonder if Gideon does in fact love her.

In Seeds of Love by Tricia Goyer we are introduced to Eli and Sadie. Sadie is living with her Aunt, Uncle and Cousins in Montana because her Mother died but she has her Mothers heirloom tomato seeds which she plants with great care. Soon Sadie is able to get her beautiful garden in because Eli helps her. Soon Eli asks Sadie for her hand in marriage and she accepts his proposal.

In Where Healing Blooms by Vannetta Chapman we are introduced to Emma who has recently become widowed and Danny who is falling in love with Emma. In this Novella Emma and Danny discover a runaway teenage boy in the barn which leads to secrets being unearthed.

This Collection of Four Novellas is a must tead for those who love Amish Fiction.

Five Stars and Happy Reading.

Saturday, June 21, 2014

Book Review: 60 People Who Helped Shape the Church

60 People Who Helped Shaped the Church
Alton Gansky
Copyright 2014

Alton Gansky gives us a brief glimpse into the lives of sixty people who helped to shape the church. It speaks of Peters influence and his persecution how he was Martyred hungnupside down on the cross as well as Paul who goes from persecuting the church to beinv persecuted for the church.

This book highlights men like Clement of Alexandria who was the first Christian Scholar eho was forced to abando his education and flee Alexandria because of Persecution.

Sixty men and women are profiled in this book from Peter in the early church to Billy Graham.

If you want a book that allows you to get the glimpse of the lives of 60 People Who Shaped the Church this is the book for you.

I give this book five stars.

Happy Reading...

Book Review: Captured by Love

Captured By Love takes us to 1814 on Mackinac Island where Americans are being forced to pledge allegiance to the British Crown because the Island has been captured by the British.

Angelique is left in the care of a Tyrant strpfather one who punishes her dimply for eating. Soon a young woman named Lavina Mcdouall comes into Angeliques life and is determined to make a lady out of her. Miss Mcdouall wants Angelique to stop working around the Inn in order to do more womanly work but Angelique doubts her Stepfather will relieve her of her duties.

Angelique is Bethroethed but her fiance had to flee the Island because he cannot pledge allegiance to the British Crown and because of that staying could have meant death but a man name Pierre has eyes for her and would like to Marry her and get her away from her Tyrant Stepfather who has already nearly killed her. Pierra happens yo be her fiance brothers and she soon regrets yhe way she kissed him the relationship she had with him and is determined to marry Luke more than ever but will he want to marry her?

Captured by Love is a story of love of forgiveness and of struggling to survive under British Rule it is also the story of one young woman's determination to live the Christian life despite living under the thumbs of a tyrant Stepfather.

Five stars for a book that will transport you back to the earliest 19th century.

Happy reading...

Book Review: Take Back the Morning

Evan Howard crafts a novel that is full of suspense from the very first page.

Take Back the Morning is the story of a corrupt stockbrocker named Justin Connely a man that is believed to have died on September 11 2001 but twenty months later it was discovered that was not the case.

It is discovered thathe has been living under an assumed name in Providence for the past 20 months.

Tori has moved on with her life shes been dating a man named Paul for the past nine months. She has moved on but knowing Justin is alive confuses her. How could he stay hidden so long?

There is a fantasy aspect to this Romantic thriller as well when Justin talks about a magical pendant that ultimately would lead to his salvation.

If you are a fan of Romantic thrillers as I am then I would recommend Take Back the Morning.

Five Stars for an excellent book.

Happy Reading...

Book Review: In the Field of Grace

In the Field of Grace is a fictionalized account of Ruth and Naomi. It starts in the early days of their friendship before Ruth married her Son. This novel is the story of one daughter in laws devotion even after her husband as God it is a story of faith and courage because Ruth had the courage to abandon everything she knows to follow Naomi and to follow God.

Tessa Afshar takes us back to the story of Ruth and Naomi. It shows us of the power of a daughter in laws devotion. It reminds us to of the power of faith because Ruth abandoned everything she knew to follow the faith of her Mother in law. She risked a lot to follow the God of Jerusalem.

Five stars for a book that transports you back to the time of Ruth and Naomi...

Book Review: The Barefoot Tribe

The Barefoot Tribe
Take Off Your Shoes and Dare to Live the Extraordinary Life
Palmer Chinchen
Copyright 2014

The Barefoot Tribe is a call to the church a call to become the people God wants us to be it is the call to share Gods love with the people in the world. It is s call to feed those who are hungry and to reach out to the sick.

We are reminded in this book some passions are worth giving our lives for. This book reminds us that together as a church we can eradicate extreme poverty and eliminate diseases such as Malaria.

The Barefoot Tribe reminds us ov the importance of reaching the world for Christ and it reminds us to stand up and make a difference as Christians.

Five stars for an excellent book...

Friday, June 20, 2014

It Takes Courage

Being in an author is something that takes bravery. It may not seem that way to everyone perhaps they have this glories version of Danielle Steel sitting in a home in a wealthy San Francisco neighborhood not thinking of the hours she poured into her works now I am not comparing my writing to Danielle Steels I am a different kind of writer altogether. I am saying that everyone an author publishes a book it Takes a bit of courage and over time we learn to take the criticism that comes along with that in a matter of stride.

I have a passion for what I do the stories I tell and in some way I think that in itself gives me a measure of courage and certainly my Faith I believe without a shadow of doubt the Lord guides my pen and that gives me the courage to push my limits and it gives me the strength to overcome the blows.

As a writer I am also an observer and always on the look out for inspiration its a good thing that we are surrounded by inspiration. But I also know that not everything is meant to be written about.

I began writing when I was a Freshmen in high school at least that is when I began writing seriously but then I rarely showed my work to anyone my Freshmen English teacher being one exception and she encouraged me to work on my writing and even to begin submitting it, it took a couple of years for me to find the courage to do that but eventually I became more confident in myself and my gift.

Michelle Kidwell
June.20.2014

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Book Review: A Heart For Freedom

A Heart For Freedom
The Remarkable Journey of a Young Dissident Her Daring Escape and Her Quest to Free China's Daughters
Chai Ling

A Heart For Freedom by Chai Ling is the story of one young womans searvh for freedom in China innthe days leading up to the Tianmen Square massacre. This book talks about the early days of her education and some of the harsh discline she both witnessed and received. She talks about the dangers of even believing in God in communist China as well as being drugged and raped by a man she looked up to in College but despite reporting it on campus the incident is never investigated which helps her to open her eyes to the need for change.

Chai Ling falls in love with a man named Feng in college a man who is marked but he opens her eyes to the need for changes in Chinese society at the time. When Chai Ling comes home for a short break she discovers that her Mother had a nervous break down but her Father seems to underplay the seriousness of the situation.

In 1988 the year before the events of Tianmen square Chai Ling and Feng were married.

Chai Ling was at Tianmen Square to deliver food and water but within a few hours she would be forever changed she is chased down by the police treated like an animal.

This book not only chronicles the story of a young woman who was very active at Tianmen square who experienced first hand the violents there it also tells of the onr child policy and the abortions that were forced upon many woman resulting in an alarming amount of suicides every year.

Chai Lings story is a story of determination of faith and of standing up to make changes in a society that needed the change.

Five stars for a wonderful book...

Book Review: Off the Page and Into Your Life

Off the Page and Into Your Life points out that although life can be complicated and even messy the love God has for us remains the same.

This book encourages us to grow in Christ to dig deeper into the word and grow in Christ.

Each chapter concludes with ideas at the end that help you grow closer to Jesus. I think this book is an awesome addition to any Bible study that encourages you to grow deeper in the Lord.

I like how this book reminds us that forgiveness is the key to any healthy relationship.

Five stars for a great book...

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Book Review: Loving Jesus More

We are reminded in Loving Jesus More that in fact we often do not love Jesus enough. It also reminds us that though their be times we do not feel as if the good Lord does not love us enough that in fact he does, he loved us so much he sent his only son to die for us.

This book reminds us that being obedient to God is a loving response to a loving Savior.

This points out some very valid points about how we tend to expect more out of Christians sometimes so much so that we almost put them on pedestals andwe are disillusioned when they fall.

I think this would be a valuable book to add to your library.

Five Stars for a great book...

Book Review: The Stories We Tell

The Stories We Tell
How TV and Movies Long For
And Echo the Truth
Mike Cosper
Copyright 2014

The Stories We Tell remind us that we find ourselves going over and over again to shows like Castle because it is the Hope that brings us back the Hope that they eill make it through the crisis. It also reminds us that though the television shows we watch may desire to get the truth they do not always get it right. This book points out that there are television shows and movies that push the limits. We are reminded in this book to that often shows remind us of the search for love.

This book is a great book for those in the television or film industries but it Is an important book for Christians to read as well because it reminds us why television and film were created and it does not have any problem pointing out just how some of todays television and film push the limits.

Five out of five stars for this read.

Book Review: A Depth of Field

A Depth of Field is a story of a young girl named Pippa Greene who has a passion for photography and is going yo go to photography camp for two weeksand her boyfriend Dylsn happens to be going as well.

Thid book is astory of teenage love of teenage passions but it is also a story of overcoming loss because the previoud year Pippas Father died of cancer. Her Father was the one who taught her photography.

Her time at camp not only shows her about herself but she learns things about her parents as well.

Five stars for a complex well written younb adult novel.