True Courage, Steve Farrar

I was interested in reviewing this book because my husband already owns many of Farrar's books. Expecting this to be aimed mostly at men I set down to read it. I was pleasantly delighted by Farrar's easy writing style. I found that this study of the amazing life of Daniel was easily applicable to men or women. At times I found myself laughing out loud at the author's humorous retelling of stories (and his cute comments about things). In this book Farrar challenges the reader to look closely at what true courage really is. He examines the life of Daniel and the driving force of Daniel's convictions. In the pages of this book one is shown that each of us have the ability to operate in true courage - this begins with recognizing who we serve. The book is comprised of eight chapters that deal with the different characteristics of courage: Courage to stay the course, Acts & Facts (this was one of my favorite chapters), Flummoxed and Flabbergasted, Gold Standard, Lock Stock and Barrel, The Hard Way, A Slight thing, In the Company of Lions. Each chapter is named for the illustrations used to make the point.

After reading this I went to tell my husband how much I enjoyed it - he told me that the others are just as good and women should read them also. So I guess now I will be adding Steve Farrar to my list of authors to read.

It is evident the this author has a heart to reach out to men and to expound on the truth of the Word. I was familiar with many of the sources he sited and was very impressed with all the research that he did.

This is an easy read and would be great for spouses to read together. In these uncertain times it is comforting to read about courage in light of The Word.

Thank you B&B for this review copy.

An interview with Colleen Coble, author of The Lightkeeper’s Ball

Q: Did you always dream of becoming a writer? Why did you choose the romance genre?

I wrote my first story in the first grade. It was about a horse that had twin colts. The teacher praised it and the writing seed was planted. I love illustrating God’s love through romance. I especially love the suspense I put into all my books as well. I have a strong streak of justice and it plays out in the suspense element.

Q: What inspired you to write a historical series based in the early 1900’s? What would you have enjoyed about living in that time period and what would you have found the most difficult?

I happened to read an article about the Gilded Age and it mentioned how that era was so similar to today’s. I was intrigued with that, plus I wanted to choose a time period that wouldn’t be too much of a departure from my contemporary books. In that era, there were still cars and telephones!

I would have loved the simpler lifestyle. However, I would miss my jeans! How vain.

Q: Society at the turn of the century was very preoccupied with appearances and impressing other people. How is that not so different than our society today and how can we keep from falling into that same trap?

That’s exactly right! The parallels between the two eras are astounding. I’ve been at the cancer hospital this week with a dear friend, and it was a reminder of how fragile this life is. We seek THINGS when God wants us to seek Him. We need to keep our eyes set on eternity and remember that THIS life is the real dream. When we reach heaven, we will finally start to really live.

Q: Bitterness and unforgiveness led to the death of Olivia’s sister. Why is it so important to forgive those who have wronged us?

An unforgiving spirit hurts us much more than the person we hate. It makes us ugly and crowds out the love we want to show other people. God is love, not hate. Bitterness is the very opposite of the attitude God wants us to have.

Q: This is the third book in your Mercy Falls series. Addie and Katie were the main characters in your first two books. Olivia was given a true gift in the friendship of Katie and Addie. What does it take to find trustworthy and loyal friends? Why do you think that we all desire to find friends like these?

You have to first be a friend. You have to be open and giving of yourself to have those kinds of friends. A true friend tells you the truth in love, and that’s an important component of the give and take of real friendship.

Q: What do you hope that your readers will take away from reading The Lightkeeper’s Ball?

I hope the readers who feel they have to earn love will take away the realization that their true worth is that Jesus loves them and died for them. They are valuable beyond comprehension. When we can step into the role of daughters and sons, we can realize our true potential.

The Lightkeeper’s Ball by Colleen Coble
Thomas Nelson/April 19, 2011
ISBN: 978-1-5955-4268-7/304 pages/paperback/$14.99
www.thomasnelson.com ~ www.colleencoble.com

Birds Can Fly and So Can I, Noa Nimrodi

This is the most delightful children's book! I am eager to see more books by this author and with this illustrator. The pictures are absolutely beautiful!

One day while strolling in the forest Giraffe sees the birds in the sky and knows that she too would like to be with them flying. Thus begins a tale of going after dreams and discovering new talents in the process. This book encourages children to chase the dreams that they have and to strive for the seemingly unattainable. In it they will learn that often we discover the journey to the dream reaveals things about ourselves we never knew - talents that had not been previously used. Although some dreams won't be accomplished in the process you may find something equally delightful.

This story ends with an interactive coloring page that invites children to list their dreams and wishes - to begin to think about the great big wide world of possibilities.

Betty Walz in the book "Simplicity", wrote, "Let kids imagine. Pretending is a form of faith, and sanctified imagination can point a child to greatness and incredible accomplishments!"

This book will encourage a child's imagination and help them understand the adventure is in the journey of trying.

To learn more about this author and her writing you can visit her website at www.noabooks.com

I recieved this book from the author as a review copy in exchange for an honest and fair review.

Grandma's Attic Series, Arleta Richardson

This is a review of In Grandma's Attic and More Stories from Grandma's Attic.

I loved the way these were written. When the email came for an opportunity to review these I was excited, but I become more excited when I received an email from a friend recommending these.

I am always in search of books that are somewhat "old fashioned", filled with good solid foundational christian values expressed in such a way that children grasp them without even realizing that the core value being instilled is directly from the bible. It is in these real life illustrations that the Word of God is internalized for young children and it is these types of stories that children cherish forever - remembering the lessons taught. These are wonderful stories told from a child's point a view about stories that were told by the grandmother. I liked every one and enjoyed reading them to my children.

If you are looking for a good chapter book, but don't want one filled with negative influence, unruly or rebellious children - this is it! Your child will enjoy the adventures of this young girl as she discovers stories about her grandmother. In the midst of these stories good morals and values are taught. Simple enough to understand and easy for young children to report about. These make excellent additions to a school library, home school library. An excellent way to have children practice reading comprehension as they tell you what the key lesson was - and even more: how they can apply it to their life.

Thank you B&B Communications for these two review copies.

Amish Prayers

Amish Prayers, compiled by Beverly Lewis
In the pages of this book the very heart of the Amish community is lain open for the world to see. It is in these prayers that were originally printed as Die Ernsthafte Christenpflicht in 1708 that we are invited into a deeper understanding of the faith that these people hold so dear. In prayer we each express those convictions of our faith that we hold close, those things that drive and influence us. It is in prayers that communities, families and churches are drawn together into a deeper more intimate relationship with Christ. Prayer reveals the heart of the believer. These prayers are poignant and beautiful - filled with the acknowledgement of the God who surpasses all things of this earth. I am thankful that the Amish community allowed something they consider so precious to be printed and that Beverly Lewis chose to pursue this. This book would be a welcome addition to any one's library of prayers. We are constantly teaching our children little rhyming prayers for bedtime and dinner - why not teach them prayers that are more significant in concern to their daily lives. These prayers are inspirational - causing one to strive for a more holy life, comforting - as they remind one of the great God we serve, and convicting - as they point out the very things we all struggle with and with humility ask for the guidance of God.

thank you Bethany House for this review copy.

The Thirteenth Gift, Charlene Costanzo

Stones - simple stones of varying shapes and sizes, colors and texture - Stored in boxes, and drawers or carried in pockets. What causes us to lean over as we walk down a beach or on a trail in the woods to pick up these small things? This story explores this very thing.

Claire is a traveling journalist on assignment overseas while her marriage disinegrates on home soil. In her pursuit of her career she has neglected those things most dear. During a drive in the country she is invited into the home of an older woman to listen to a story that will forever alter her life. This sweet story told by the old lady is easily retold to children - who will appreciate it very much. In these pages we are reminded that God has made each of us with wonderful gifts. Each of us is precious and valuable!

I encourage you to read this book and discover the royal gifts - and finally the fourteenth gift.

Special thanks to the author and Nettie Hartsock of Booth Media Group for this review copy.

Hailey Twitch and the Campground Itch, Lauren barnholdt

This short chapter book is just the right size for 2nd grade and up. The words are large print and the illustrations are great! Haily Twitch is the younger sister of Kaitlyn and she is constantly up to something. In this book Haily is going on a camping trip with her parents, her friend, and her sister and sister's friend, Maya. Hailey thinks Maya is a bossy big kid. To add to this mix of mischief is Hailey's little magical fairy Maybelle who is trying to learn to control her magic. This is a recipe for disaster - and that is just what fills these pages. Both of my elementary children enjoyed the book. The story was easy and enjoyable to read. The only thing that I disliked about this book were the use of some slang words and the use of the Lord's name in vain. I marked these out in the book as they did not add to the story (and marking them out did not distract from the story). Other than this the book is great. It is perfectly suited for early elementary age students who are beginning to read chapter books.

Thank you Sourceboks for this review copy.

Amish Prayers, compiled by Beverly Lewis

In the pages of this book the very heart of the Amish community is lain open for the world to see. It is in these prayers that were originally printed as Die Ernsthafte Christenpflicht in 1708 that we are invited into a deeper understanding of the faith that these people hold so dear. In prayer we each express those convictions of our faith that we hold close, those things that drive and influence us. It is in prayers that communities, families and churches are drawn together into a deeper more intimate relationship with Christ. Prayer reveals the heart of the believer. These prayers are poignant and beautiful - filled with the acknowledgement of the God who surpasses all things of this earth. I am thankful that the Amish community allowed something they consider so precious to be printed and that Beverly Lewis chose to pursue this. This book would be a welcome addition to any one's library of prayers. We are constantly teaching our children little rhyming prayers for bedtime and dinner - why not teach them prayers that are more significant in concern to their daily lives. These prayers are inspirational - causing one to strive for a more holy life, comforting - as they remind one of the great God we serve, and convicting - as they point out the very things we all struggle with and with humility ask for the guidance of God.

thank you Bethany House for this review copy.

The Dawn of a Dream, Ann Shorey

This is the third book in the Beldon Grove series. I have read the other books but found that this one can really stand on its own. I did not recognize the other characters from previous books. I must say that during the entire story my admiration grew for Luellen McGarvie. She accomplished something wonderful at a time when her plight was harder than it is now. Even in today's society raising a child alone is difficult, but today it is free from the stigma that it held back then. Luellen must not only overcome the tragic heartbreak of her husband's betrayal, but also the gossip and thoughts of those who would judge her an unfit woman. Her challenge is made more difficult as she tries to pursue her studies to become a teacher only to find out that she is expecting a child. Even so, this remarkable woman with the prayer and help of her mother, father, brother and her brother's friend not only finishes school but excels at it. She proves that a woman with determination and faith in God can overcome insurmountable odds. This is a beautiful story, one that is most certainly worth the read.

Available April 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

Thank you Revell for this review copy.

Revive Us Again, Frank Viola

This book is a quick worthwhile read. In fact it is one that is easily re-read. In it Frank Viola directly addresses many areas of the christian walk challenging Christians to take a closer look at themselves and ten key areas of christian living. These areas are the ones that most often become congested and skewed by our society and culture and even our own religious rules and traditions. Viola asks the reader to consider what it truly means to live the christian life. It is evident in his writing that Viola is writing from his own experiences in his christian walk and the things that God has revealed to him during his walk with the Lord. If you want to get back to the basics of unpolluted, legalism free Christianity this is the book for you. It will challenge your thinking and set you on a road to revival.

Thank you B&B Communications for this review copy.

The Dopple Ganger Chronicles: The First Escape, G.P. Taylor

I am always on the look out for suitable reading material for my four children. Especially for my tween daughter who is too young for teen fiction but yet too old to still enjoy childrens books. I found the illustrations very interesting and all the type fonts used made it visually intriqueing. I will admit that because I am not used to reading this type of book that changing between traditional writing to comic-book style writing took some getting used to. In fact I had to turn back several times to "read" the comic-book page because I skipped over it taking it merely as an illustration.

However, once I got the hang of how to read this I enjoyed the book and fast pace of this story. I do think the author skipped over character development in order to put more focus on the antics and trouble the characters were in. Because of this the reader does not really get to "know" the character. I do think that most children will like this because it moves from one action filled scene to the next.

Twins Sadie and Saski Dopple and their friend Eric Ganger are in constant conflict. There is action and mystery surrounding them the entire story. I did not care for some of the dark images and in fact when readig this to my youngers I skipped over those parts. This is said as a caution to parents who will most certainly want to read this prior to letting their children read this so that they can address these things.

My oldest daughter (a 4th grader) loved this book and is begging to read the others in the series. My oldest son (a 2nd grader) liked looking at the comic-book style pages, the different font styles and illustration but did not show much interest in reading the rest of the book. My youngers (age 3 and 4) enjoyed the story read to them because they also liked the illustrations.

Thank you Tyndale for this review copy

That's When I Talk to God, Dan & Ali Morrow

This is the second book by these authors, the first was "That's Where God is". I loved this one as much as the first. The authors have done an excellent job of teaching children that they can talk to God at anytime, in any place, about anything. My daughters loved the book and the simple story line. This is a conversation between a mother and daughter at bedtime. The mother is explaining that prayer is simply a conversation with God and that we can do it all the time. I think this is great because like this girl most children probably associate prayer with a bedtime and meal time and at these times there are sometimes recited easy prayers that follow the same line. However the mother explains that we can speak to God about anything and use the language we are most comfortable with. I think this is an excellent resource to use in teaching children how to prayer and help them become more comfortable with what prayer really is.
Thank You B&B Communications for this review copy.

Daddy Dates, Greg Wright

I agreed to review this book so my husband would have it to read.

However, I found that I really enjoyed this honest narration of this fathers quest to capture his daughters hearts. In all honesty I found myself laughing out loud at this author's honest take on life. This is not a book of formulas to be the best dad but rather an open, transparent narrative of this father's journey. As a father of four daughters Greg Wright draws on his experiences with them. I had to wonder what they thought of this book. I know that as a parent I can totally relate to some of his stories, as a father I know my husband will be able to relate. What makes this book so great is the style of writing. Since it is not a book of "how to" or a list of "don't do's" and "Do's" but rather more like a conversation with a friend it is easily read and enjoyed. Most father's will be able to relate in some way to this man and will find encouragement as they too seek to capture their daughters hearts. I highly recommend this book to fathers.

Thank you Thomas Nelson (Booksneeze) for this review copy.

90 Days of God's Goodness: Daily Reflections, Randy Alcorn

If you are a fan of Randy Alcorn this is another winner of his! This book is a light is distress and devastation. In it's pages Randy Alcorn carefully reveals the goodness of God even in the darkness of the times, even in suffering and heartache, even in the valleys of life. Through these short inspirational devotions the reader is drawn into the debt of God's heart. They are invited to come face to face with the deep still well of compassion that God has for his people. You can not help but fall in love with our Savior all over again after reading this - for who else has offered up so much, sacrificed something so priceless, laid out such a beautiful gift, and time and time again has restored, resurrected, reclaimed and set aside his people that are the apple of his eye. A wonderful read.

Thank you Multnomah/Waterbrook for this review copy.

Sacred Marriage, Gary Thomas

This is another great book by Gary Thomas. I recently finished Sacred Parenting and the Sacred Parenting bible study. I read this book in preperation for the bible study that goes with it. After finishing this book I am all the more eager to do the bible study at church! Gary Thomas does an excellent job of addressing the issue of marriage from a very practical and biblical point. It is easy to relate to the illustrations. This book is not a "how to" book on marriage but rather a book that points to the fact that marriage is designed by God and is essentially for God and the deepening of a relationship with God. As this personal relationship deepens so does the marriage and it also is fortified and strengthened by this personal relationship. God is a God of love and that is what marriage is all about. To better understand this one must seek out God on a personal level. This book is an excellent book to be read with your spouse, however, it is also worth reading even if your spouse does not wish to read it with you. Be challenged to apply God's word to your every day life.

Thank you Zondervan for providing this review copy.

A Cowboys Touch, Denise Hunter

This is the first in the A Big Sky Romance series by this author. After reading it I am eager to read the rest of the books to see how it all works together to expand on this story and the characters that we are introduced to.

Abigail is a work-a-holic trying to keep up a fast pace when her mother orders her to take a vacation to take care of her great Aunt in the middle of Montana. This drastic change is exactly what Abigail is in need of. However she never expected that this break from her hectic life would bring her face to face with God and true love. Here in this little town in the middle of Montana Abigail is thrown from a horse into the life of a widower Cowboy. This is the beginning of a road to love and restoration for both Wade and Abigail. Each has a past and secrets, each has hurts but together under the direction of a loving God both find peace, restoration, and love. Abigail finds that God is still in control of all things.

Thank you B&B Media Group for providing this review copy.

Dancing on Glass, Pamela Binnings Ewen

Set in the historic city of New Orleans in the 70's this story of love, obsessions, attempted murder, betrayal and restoration keeps the reader on the edge of their seats. Strong willed and determined Amalis Catoir is studying law and working at a cafe downtown at night. Her loving parents worry constantly about her and have asked a childhood friend named Jude to watch over her when he is in the city between his job on the water. On her way to work one rainy night Amalise finds herself in a local art studio looking at the paintings. She had no way of knowing that this stop by the studio would change her life forever and would set her on a terrifying road. It is there that she meets Phillip Sharp, a man that has an almost electric pull on Amalise. Before she fully understands her decisions she finds herself seduced by this man. This story had my stomach in knots as it revealed the sadistic evil character of Phillip Sharp and his manipulative ways. I found myself almost angry that Amalise could not see the warning signs and did not flee the impending danger - I then found myself sick at the thought the possible endings. This is an excellent story and now I am interested in reading the previous novels by this author.

Special thanks to B&H Publishing for this review copy.

A Heart Most Worthy, Siri Mitchel

Fleeing from anarchist that had murdered her father Luciana seeks refuge in Boston's north end among immigrants and peasants. There she tries to leave behind her nobility and forget the privileges of that rank and life. She seeks to blend and be unnoticed in the dirty, overpopulated streets of the north end. Each day she spends her energy staying hidden ever searching for the murderous man that is hunting her down. In dire straights she seeks employment to make a meager living. By divine appointment she finds herself in Madame Fortier's shop. Little does she know how her life will soon be entwined in Madame's (who is also holding a secret that drives her). On that day she had no way of knowing that her employment would lead to the freedom of Madame to be herself, nor did she know that this place of employment would lead to her being found by her enemy and in her finding love. In this building Luciana finds herself two unlikely friends - Julietta and Annamaria. Both of these girls are also on the road of reconciling who they want to be and what is expected of them to be. This book is endearing from the start. One can not help but feel as if you know each of these girls. I really enjoyed Siri Mitchel's writing style as it reminded me of Jane Austen and Louisa May Alcott in different ways. Most certainly worth the read I highly recommend it.

Thank you Bethany House Publishing for this review copy.

Tomorrow's Garden, Amanda Cabot

The journey of Harriet Kirk is one that pulls at a person's heart strings. Forced to take on adult responsibilities at a very young age and burdened with the responsibility to keep up appearences in the small town of fortune Harriet does not get the joy of just being a child. In this story the reader is invited to travel a road of survival and ultimate healing as Harriet takes her siblings to the town of Ladreville. This is the 3rd book in the Texas Dreams series but can easily be read as a stand alone. In this we see the continued stories of characters that we were introduced to in the earlier books as well as the new Kirk family. Harriet is strong-willed, determined and goal oriented when she moves to Ladreville. Her goals are centered on making a new start for her siblings so that they each have a chance to flourish outside of the shadow of gossip from their previous town or the burden of trying to keep up appearences of the Kirk family name. Never did she consider that this move would lead her into a new life of her own - a life where she is asked to face the past and let go in order to experience a love of her own. This story is wonderfully moving.

Thank you Revell for this review copy.

“Available April 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

The Prayer Dare, Ron Kincaid

Get ready to experience a new level of friendship with God as you are challenged to revamp your prayer life. This is a 40 day challenge to experience prayer in an all new way. Ron Kincaid does an excellent job laying out 40 individual prayer challenges that are geared to get the reader into a regimen of prayer. Each challenge opens with a key scripture then is followed by a devotional and lastly has the challenge and questions to help you start on the challenge. If you liked the love dare you'll love this. If you enjoy a good challenge and marked goals to reach you will enjoy this. Be prepared to take you prayer life to a new and exciting level as you explore your relationship with God and experience his love in a whole new way.

Thank you Gospel Light for this review copy.

What the Bible is All About 101

When I first got this bible study I thought it was for teens or young adults. After reviewing it I found that it is great for all ages - including elementary age students. I am using it as part of our home school but will also be using it in our Sunday School class. The material covers the first pat of the old testament and gives a good solid foundation in biblical history and truth. This is great when used with the other What the Bible is All About resources. I am thrilled that such an easy to use resource has been developed. This will help children to more clearly understand the bible and how to apply it. In addition the book has great reproducible worksheets for further exercises.

Thank you Gospel Light for this review copy.

Over the Edge, Brandilyn Collins

Shortly after receiving this book in the mail I was at Burger King with my children on the Arkansas side of Texarkana. There in the parking lot was a small blue car with the entire bumper and lower part of the back window covered with bumper stickers that read "Lyme is alive and well in Arkansas". To be honest until receiving this book for review I had not given much thought to this disease. Then as I read this book a classmate of my husband was diagnosed with this very thing. How odd that God works things out in such a way to make us aware of something like this.

This book is very well written. From the first page the reader is drawn into the story with a full range of emotions. I found this book to be a little stressful simply because of the tensions within it. I felt so bad for the main character and within the first few pages developed a deep dislike for her husband. It seems so very terrible that this man would treat his own wife with such disinterest. In fact I found myself really wanting to put the book down because of this one character, if I didn't want so badly to see what happened to Jannie. Never before had I given much thought to Lyme Disease, but after reading this I have a new sympathy for those suffering from this and a new desire not to take my children for any more hikes in the Arkansas mountains!

Brandilyn Collins has expertly written a suspenseful drama that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. This one is certainly a page turner and is difficult to put down. I read it in one setting (shamefully staying up way past my bedtime) in order to finish it. A special thanks to the author for tackling a book that will no doubt bring awareness to many about a topic that needs to be seen.

Thank you B&H for this review copy.

ESV Seek and Find Bible

The new ESV Seek and Find Bible is made for children between the ages of 5 and 9, though I think it would be good for older students also. My children are the ages of 3, 4, 7 and 9. I was excited to receive this bible to see how my children would like it. The color illustrations with stories are excellent for this age group of new readers. What makes this bible unique is that the illustrated stories have the bible reference, related bible references, questions for discussion. I thought this easy to read text was great. I liked the fact that it resembles a chain reference bible in that it will have listed beside text other related bible text or stories (these are listed by page numbers that make it easier for children to track down the sited sources). Both of my older children liked the bible and found it easy to navigate. My younger two loved the color illustrations and stories that matched.

Thank you Crossway for this review copy.

Visit www.crossway.org/blog for more information!

Join The Life Book Movement

Getting the Word out in public high schools
The Life Book Movement nears the half-million mark in books distributed
Are we trading in our right to free speech, especially our freedom of religion, in exchange for being non-offensive and politically correct? Separation of church and state may restrict public prayers in schools, but there is still an avenue for high school students to rightfully distribute God’s Word in their schools.

Founded by The Gideons International, The Life Book Movement is an innovative strategy to reach high school students with the Word of God. The movement is a Christian mission centered on The Life Book, a unique presentation of Scripture designed to engage high school students with the truth of God’s Word, created by Carl Blunt, president and CEO of The Life Book Movement. The Life Book presents a brief overview of the Old Testament and the Book of John using an interactive format with honest student comments and real-life questions in the margins. Readers are drawn into the only story that can change their lives forever.

The Life Book Movement works with churches throughout the country by providing free copies of The Life Book for students to give as gifts to their friends and classmates during school. Blunt’s organization brilliantly takes advantage of a student’s freedom to distribute religious literature by getting The Life Book into the hands of Christian high school students and having them pass the books out to classmates at school—a practice that is acceptable, as long as the books are not distributed by school staff or other adults.

Blunt says, “In mission-speak, it’s like we’re helping students get God’s Word into a closed country (public high schools) to reach an unreached people group because studies show that only 4% of today’s teenagers are Bible-believing Christians.” The goal is to ensure that every student in every high school in the United States has an opportunity to receive the gift of The Life Book. This approach presents a phenomenal opportunity to impact a generation with the good news of Jesus Christ.

Local churches contact The Life Book Movement to schedule saturations, described to students as a short-term mission trip to their local high school. Local church youth ministries work together in targeted areas to ensure The Life Book is offered to students in each chosen high school. The churches receive the books at no cost from The Life Book Movement and provide the books, along with some evangelism training, to the students in their youth groups. The students then spend a week or two passing them out to their friends and classmates at school.

In less than a year and a half, almost 320,000 copies of The Life Book have been distributed. That number is expected to increase by 200,000 by the end of May 2011. This year alone, saturations have occurred in over 80 locations in 26 states. According to Blunt, 1.2 million copies are being printed for distribution in the 2011-2012 school year.

www.thelifebook.com – www.twitter.com/carlblunt – www.facebook.com/carlblunt

The Deepest Waters, Dan Walsh

This is a wonderful read. The story is so bitterly sweet in many ways. Newly married John and Laura set off on their honeymoon aboard the great ship SS Vandervere. Little did they know that this would be more than a leisurely sail across the ocean, but that it would be the testing of faith and love. I really enjoyed Dan Walsh's ability to interweave so many lives into this story. In fact I barely wanted to put it down. However, in the end I have to say I was sadly disappointed in how this author tied everything up. I felt there was much of the story left unsaid and many loose ends. After being reunited with family and loved ones the author closes very quickly with the fact that John and Laura return to their life across the states. There seems to be a lot of loose ends - unfinished business, unanswered questions that would make the story more wholesome. For instance: What did John do that so greatly embarrassed his family?, What's up with the dad?, Why was there such friction between the brothers?, Was there reconciliation or change in any of them? I am now curious as to whether all of Dan Walsh's stories end this way or if he is planning to make a sequel to this one. Again, this is a beautiful, heart touching story. Many good themes are in it: Forgiveness (demonstrated by Micah), true contentment (again demonstrated by Micah), where true freedom comes from (yes, Micah again), the sustaining power of love (Demonstrated by John), Humility and kindness (Micah and Laura). A very good book until the end.
Thank you Revell for this review copy.

Bad Girls of the Bible, and What We Can Learn From Them, Lizz Curtis Higgs

I like almost anything that Lizz Curtis Higgs writes. She has a sense of humor and Wit that makes her stories and studies very enjoyable to read. Once you begin this book it is hard to put it down! Lizz Curtis Higgs explores the "Bad girls of the bible" and what each of us can glean from their mistakes and triumphs. The overall theme is one of the redeeming love of Christ. Though some of these women chose to stay in the desolation of sin there are others that were deemed unworthy and "bad" only to prove their great value to Christ. There are valuable lessons stashed away in the stories of these biblical women - if it were not so God would not have allowed their stories to be preserved in His holy word. The Bible study that follows each chapter encourages the reader to explore deeper the truths found in the study of these women. Lizz Curtis Higgs makes the study of all these women both enjoyable and informative.

Thank you Waterbrook for this review copy.

Women God's Secret Weapon, Ed Silvoso

This is an astounding book! I found it really enjoyable to read as far as the relaxed reading style. Silvoso explores the value of women in his new book. Any woman who is feeling that they are not important or vital to the kingdom work would benefit from this book. Silvoso shows how God has a specefic and special purpose for women in this world in the spiritual battles of the time. He shows how women where specifically designed for certain tasks in the kingdom work and how they are truelly essential to the plan God has put in motion. I do however have one reservation about this book. This is that the author seems to stretch the meaning of some scripture. At some points even taking some scriptures out of context in order to make it fit his agenda. Although I most full heartily agree that women are created for a specific purpose in the kingdom work, I do not think they hold a higher use than men.

Thank you Gospel Light for this review copy.

The Big Book of Bible Facts and Fun

Again Gospel Light has created an excellent resource for church and home! My kids love the interactive pages and color sheets that teach interesting facts about the bible. If you want to help your children (and even yourself) learn interesting bible trivia this is a fun resource to use. The huge book has reproducible pages so it will last and last. This is an excellent book for Sunday School use - it would be great to use the first few minutes of class to introduce new facts and review ones that have already been learned.

Thank you Gospel Light for this review copy.

From Anger to Intimacy Leaders Kit

Churches, small group leaders, Family Ministers - this one is worth the $99.00 price tag. I must say hats off to Gospel Light for producing a cost effective, all-inclusive kit! This one has the Leaders Guide, Hardcover book, DVD and not one but SIX study guides! This is a deal that absolutely can not be beat anywhere. Most kits do not include the six study guides or a hardcover book and cost over $100.00.

Look past the title - do not let pride mislead you - this is a must read - we ALL of buttons that can be pushed! This book is highly convicting to those seeking Christ's direction and sharpening in their lives. It exposes the very sin nature of acting on unrighteous anger - and all of us do it - is is our fleshly first instinct and must be brought under control of the Holy Spirit. I have quickly become a fan of these two authors and now own many of their most recent works thanks to being able to review them for the publisher. This one is no less impressive than the first - I have already handed it out to others I know.

In addition to this incredibly insightful book this kit comes with the equally great study guides. These challenge couples to take a close look at their individual issues with anger. I know some people think they don't have any anger issues - after all you don't blow up and throw a screaming tantrum or throw stuff across the room - that's an anger problem isn't it? But what about pouting, or running away from the issue. We all have buttons that get pushed, secret insecurities, hidden hurts. This study guide and DVD explores these issues and challenges couples to face these things and overcome them - leading to a more fulfilling marriage!

Thank you Gospel Light for this review copy!

As Long as We Both Shall Live: Study Guide and DVD, Dr. Smalley and Ted Cunnigham

The book, Study Guide and DVD are each sold seperately but are most certainly worth the purchase for all 3. I think the best use of this material is in its complete set allthough they may each be used seperately.

This study guide is a wonderful resource to use with the book by the same title. As the cost is very affordable I would recommend purchasing both. This is excellent for small groups but is equally enjoyable and beneficial for personal couple study. If you are seeking to strengthen your marriage through scripture study this is an excellent study. In it you will explore the gap between what you expected from marrieage and what actually came to be. I think this should be required for engaged couples as it invites couples to explore their expectations in light of the scripural expectations so that they are not disenchanted or discouraged with marriage. This book helps to strengthen a marriage's foundation - turning the focus on what is biblical instead of what society (movies, stories, tales) have painted marriage to be.

I would thoroughly recommend this book, study and Dvd to all couples if you want to truly understand the impact our expectations have on our married lives and how to reconcile the unmet expectations we face. The book is very easy to read. At times I was amazed at how the applications and illustrations so closely mirrored some of the seasons of my married life. This can truly be a blessing for couples who whoose to reach for a closer walk with Christ and their mate.

Thank you Gospel Light for this review material.

Coach Wooden, Pat Williams

This book is very well written. I agreed to review it because I thought my husband would enjoy reading about a coach he liked. I found however, that I too liked the principles by which this legendary coach lived. His story stirs the heart and makes one laugh and cry. It is clear why this extraordinary man influenced so many and made such an impact in the coaching world. Get ready to be drawn into a heart-warming telling of one man's life. This is a great read - I recommend it to all people even those who are not sports lovers.

Thank you Revell for this review copy.

Available February 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Rocket Town, Bob Logan

How Neat! I loved this book and so did my children. This is one of the most unique boardbooks I have seen. The illustrations are excellent. There is so much to look at on each page. The text, though simple, is just the right length for young children. All four of my children loved the book about rockets going up and down, and the final count down to blast off.

Horrid Henry Rocks, Francesca Simon

When the package with this book arrived my daughter was eager to read it. In fact she finished it in record time - even memorizing some parts of it. She like it very much - I think she could relate to the antics of Henry since she has two brothers of her own. She liked Perfect Peter because she could sympathize mostly with him - as her own brothers pull some of the same things off. This book is very engaging and quick moving. All three stories move rapidly. Horrid Henry is the typical active boy. Great for readers eager for their first chapter books. I found the names of the characters to be cute and funny and the general theme good.
Thank you Sourcebook for this review copy.