Tag Archives: Reading List

Blind Hope is the story of a broken woman who rescues a blind dog. At first, Laurie believes her dog Mia is the one being rescued. However, she slowly realizes that her dog is actually the one doing the rescuing.

The great – I loved all the photos. Each chapter begins with a photograph of Mia and Laurie. The photographer deserves huge kudos as the pictures are absolutely stunning.

The good – In a world full of books which are labeled Christian but contain a watered down message, Blind Hope delivers a very strong message. Parallels are drawn between Mia’s experiences as a blind dog and Laurie’s relationship with God. The messages are Biblical and inspiring, though a bit heavy handed at times.

The not so good – I struggled to follow the sequence of events. Laurie and Mia are the main focus, yet the book is written from another author’s perspective. For example, the author tells of a ski trip she and Laurie take. During that ski trip, Laurie tells a story about her and Mia. The book is a story of a story and thus hard to follow.

Overall, it was a quick read. I was touched by the vibrant spirit of a little blind dog and wished I could have seen more of her throughout the book. Mia and Laurie learn some wonderful lessons of love, friendship, and the power of God’s forgiveness.

Thank you to WaterBrook Multnomah for providing a free copy of this book.

When I saw that Sarah’s Garden (Kelly Long) was available for review, I was intrigued. A combination of gardening, quilting, and a true to life portrayal of Christianity cannot go wrong. I thought the writing was vivid as I could easily imagine the scenes taking place. The ending was to be expected, though fairly believable and welcome. Reading Amish fiction can quickly become monotonous as many of the books are formulaic. This was not one of them and I genuinely enjoyed reading Sarah’s story.

I don’t know enough about the Amish people to recognize if this book is completely accurate in its portrayal of Amish life. But the writing did inspire me to continue in my path to living a more simple life so that I can be open to hearing God’s voice. Without the distractions of constant media or busy schedules, I hope that it will be easier to recognize when God is directing me.

I look forward to reading more upcoming books in this series.

This book was provided for review by Thomas Nelson.

I chose Radical, by David Platt, because of the subtitle – “taking back your faith from the American dream.” The author does a really good job showing how the typical American dream works at odds with fulfilling the gospel commission to go and make disciples of all nations. Too often, we in America are comfortable with the status quo, with trying to increase our material wealth, and with our padded seats and pat sermons at church.

As far as making me think, this book succeeded. I am a homemaker. As such, my realm of influence is small. According to Radical, it matters not that I am a woman or a homemaker. Platt suggests that we are all called to go and make disciples of all nations. Is this the case? Was the command given to the disciples applicable to all believers? Am I, with my husband, to go to a foreign country and preach the gospel? The book states that believers often use the excuse that “I am not called to preach; my gift is in another area.” Platt suggests that this is only an excuse and all believers are called by God to preach and serve in a big way.

Toward the beginning of the book, the author states that he has more questions than answers. That is also the case for me after reading his book. Very few of my questions were answered and I have several more topics lined up for Bible study.

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

My first book review for WaterBrook Multnomah is 360° Life, written by the late Billy Joe Daugherty. When I saw that this book was available for review, I jumped on it. The author’s name was familiar but I couldn’t place who he was. From the back of the book – “360° Life explores how ordinary people, regardless of their challenges, can experience life-altering change through simple faith.”

I was slightly confused about why this book was subtitled “Ten Ways You Can Live More Richly, Deeply, Fully.” There were 13 chapters and I felt the “ten ways” weren’t practical ideas but rather thoughts to ponder.

Unfortunately, I struggled through the first few chapters. The book’s intended audience is definitely those new to the Christian faith or who are interested in exploring Christianity. As I was baptized at 11 years of age, I felt like the book couldn’t offer much to me personally.

Last weekend, I almost had a panic attack at the thought of not being “good enough” for God. It’s not that I don’t believe God loves me, because I know He does. I struggle with having always believed (until just recently) that perfection is required when Christ returns for His people, that if we are not perfect at Christ’s second coming, we won’t be admitted into heaven.

Thankfully I picked up this book and read the chapter titled “What God Thinks of You.” The author made a list of a few texts:

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…” (Jeremiah 1:5a).

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).

“… being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

“For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness…” (Isaiah 61:10b).

And several other texts. This chapter and these Scripture verses pulled me out of an anxiety attack and reminded me how much God really does love me. That alone made this book a worthwhile read for me personally.

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

The Rewards of Simplicity took me a long time to read. That’s not to say it wasn’t a good book. I just had a hard time reading more than a few pages at a time. Because it took so long to read and I wasn’t sure how to summarize the book in it’s entirety, I took a few notes for each chapter. The book was co-written by a husband and wife. The first half, written by Mrs. Pierce, discusses a practical approach to simplicity. The second half of the book, written by Mr. Pierce, addressed the spiritual approach.

Chapter 1 – Faith, Focus, and Function
The three keys to simplicity are faith, focus, and function. We start by having faith in God. Then we develop focus, which is “the ability to narrow our vision and concentrate on the moment instead of all the peripheral concerns that strive for our attention” (pg. 22). I really liked this quote that tied faith, focus, and function together: “If faith is the starting place for a simplified life, and focus aligns our hearts and minds to God’s purposes, then function is the evidence of simplicity in the believer’s life” (pg. 25).

Chapter 2 – Understanding Simplicity
What it means to be simple.
The difference between being gifted and skilled and how to develop both.
Having a simplification mindset.

Chapter 3 – Fasting for Simplification
Issues a challenge to take a fast from the media – television, movies, video games, and the internet. Intead, use the time for something else such as Bible study, taking a walk, or playing games with the family.

Chapter 4 – Simplicity and the Law of Love
Discusses dealing with other people, relationships.

Chapter 5 – Simplicity, Sabbath and Refreshing
Walking humbly with God (Micah 6:8).
Importance of the Sabbath.
This was my favorite chapter. The authors are not Adventist, but I’ve never heard a non-Adventist explain the Sabbath in such a way. I struggle with what it means to keep the Sabbath, to rest with God. This chapter made it very plain. Hubby and I are going to reread it together and discuss what it means for us as individuals and as a family.

Chapter 6 – Money, Possessions, Simplicity
A warning about being aware of our attitude about money (Matthew 6:19-21, 31-33).

Chapter 7 – Practicing Simplicity
Some practical ideas for moving toward simplicity.

Chapter 8 – Simplicity or Anxiety?
Be anxious for nothing (Philippians 4:4-9).

Chapter 9 – A Moment for Change
The author’s (Chuck Pierce) experience with needing to let go of his anxiety.
A look at the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42).
Steps to break down anxiety.

Chapter 10 – Stress Can Work for You
Look at Jesus’ example of how to live life (Matthew 6:22-34).
“Jesus came and walked through much conflict, but it did not entangle Him. He maintained complete emotional stability and balance before the Father. He proved to us that we could alleviate anxiety” (pg. 148).

Chapter 11 – Faith: The Right Framework
The antidote to anxiety is faith (Isaiah 26:3).
“For me, simplifying my life meant simplifying my thinking so that I could live free from anxiety and learn to walk in the Spirit” (pg. 175).

Chapter 12 – Simplicity Can Be a Reality
Tips for keeping things simple while moving through daily life.

The last paragraph sums up the entire book: “Simplification is not about making life easier. It is about clearing away the cobwebs that obscure our vision. It is about choosing that “good part” and discarding the rest. It is about being free from the distractions that keep us from truly knowing and fellowshipping with our families, our friends and our God” (pg. 194).

I didn’t agree with all of the doctrine in this book, but I wholeheartedly agreed with the theology. Pam Pierce has a way of talking about God that makes Him seem more real and part of everyday life. I thoroughly enjoyed the chapters she wrote.

Thanks to Bethany House for providing this book to review.

When I discovered that Bethany House sometimes sends out books for review, I was ecstatic. I love to read and am not able to pick up too many new titles from the library. However, I received Beguiled in the mail and then was swamped. I am remiss in posting a review within a timely manner.

I was really excited to read this book, coauthored by Deeanne Gist and J. Mark Bertrand, because I have read almost every single book that Gist has written. Though known for her historical fiction books, Gist tackles a contemporary fiction book with Beguiled.

The storyline was intriguing. Rylee, a dog walker for many wealthy families in Charleston, is suspected in a series of “Robin Hood” break-ins. Enter Logan, a reporter covering the story. Is Rylee involved in the break-ins? Can Logan figure out who the thief is before someone gets hurt? Can Rylee overcome her distrust of men and begin a relationship?

I can’t really say much about the ending because I don’t want to spoil it for anyone who is interested in reading this book. But I was completely caught off guard for how the break-ins wrapped up. In most books when I am normally predicting each event as it unfolds, this is a nice change of pace.

My only complaint with the book is that it seemed lacking in the Christian aspect of Christian Fiction. There were a couple casual thoughts about God and one “conversion” scene. But it didn’t seem that any of the characters were interested in God being a daily part of their lives. There are too many “Sunday Christians” and it seemed these characters were falling into that habit.

Overall, it was a pleasant read. If you’ve read any of Gist’s historical fiction, this is a slightly different feel but it still includes her signature character development. I’m looking forward to her next book!

Thanks to Bethany House for a copy of this book!

I’m so excited! I’ve seen mention around the web about receiving free books if you publish a review on your blog. Bethany House, one of the Christian publishing houses, participates in this type of program. If I see a book at the library by Bethany House, chances are I’ll enjoy it. So, I went to their website and filled out the form to be a book reviewer.

A few days later, I received an email stating that there were several nonfiction books eligible for book reviews. I chose one that sounded like something I would borrow from the library and read. The email said that requests will be filled as books are available, so I wasn’t sure I would receive one.

My book came in the mail today! I’m going to be reading The Rewards of Simplicity: A Practical and Spiritual Approach. This is definitely something I would have chosen from the library and it also fulfills one of my 2010 reading challenges.

Now I need to read the book and write an honest review of it, discussing why I liked or disliked it. I’m really excited about both the book and the chance to review it.