Book Review: Gay Girl, Good God

  My latest review is of Jackie Hill Perry's book, Gay Girl, Good God.  I first came to know of Jackie through an interview I saw on the internet.  I was intrigued and blown away by her testimony of how she came to know God.  Since then, I have heard her speak at a couple of conferences, and she has definitely been gifted by God to speak His truth with boldness and compassion.

   Once I found out that Jackie wrote a book about her life, and how she came to know God, I wanted to know her full story, as I had only seen a tiny portion of her testimony on the video interview.  Some may also know Jackie, as a "Spoken Word Poet" (not sure the correct title).  She also has been gifted by God to tell a story through poetic expression.  Her gift with words is so evident in her book, Gay Girl, Good God.  Many times, I had to stop and reread a section in the book to truly soak it in. 

 I am sure that many reading this review would be intrigued by the title of Jackie's book, and want to know where she stands on the issue of homosexuality.  All I will say, as I really want everyone to read this book (whether you believe in God or not) is take a chance and PLEASE READ THE BOOK.  Jackie doesn't so much focus in on her past, but on who God revealed Himself to be.  God really is the focus of this book. 

  Even if you do not agree with Jackie,  I feel like you would at least be able to say she demonstrates much compassion and understanding throughout the entire book.  Homosexuality is such a hot topic for the Church (collective body of believers) right now, and I feel like Jackie is one speaking truth that could bring healing with God's help.  Buy the book, and pass it on. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from B&H Publishing, and in turn agreed to write this review. 

Book Review: The Cow Said Neigh!

 My latest review is of the book, "The Cow Said Neigh! A Farm Story", written by Rory Feek.  This review will be short and sweet.  I love this delightful book!

 The illustrations in this book are absolutely beautiful!  They are so colorful and pleasing to the eye.  Children will be captivated by the pictures, and what child doesn't love to look at animals?  I think my favorite thing about the book is how fun it is to read out loud.  It is a rhyming book, and the words just roll off your tongue.

 I am a preschool teacher, and my class would love this book.  I actually plan on reading it during our Farm theme week.  The story is about a farm full of animals that decide they would rather be different animals.  So the cow, thinks the horse has it better and he decides to be a horse too.  The end of the story ends up with the Farmer joining in on the fun.  Such a silly story!

 I recommend this book for teachers and parents of young children.  Toddler and preschool age children will love this story.  Thank you BookLook Bloggers for the free copy of this book (I agreed to write this review in trade).

Book Review: The Struggle is Real

I was excited to read and review my latest book, "The Struggle is Real" by Nicole Unice.  I was blessed to discover bible teacher and author Nicole Unice a few years ago.  I was a part of a book review program, and I saw a book titled, "She's Got Issues", and immediately requested to review it. That book is one of the best books I have ever read!  So, when I had the chance to help Nicole promote and get the word out about her latest book, I jumped at the opportunity.

 I love Nicole's style of writing, and the fact that she has a background of counseling elevates her books/teachings.  I feel as if Nicole gives her readers practical things they can do in real life...things that bring true change.  "The Struggle is Real" also has a companion bible study (with DVD teachings) that goes with it.   Her first book, "She's Got Issues" had a bible study, and it was one of the best studies I have ever done. 

    I was engaged totally as I started reading,"The Struggle is Real".  I felt like Nicole was writing my story.  I believe God was encouraging me through her book.  In the early part of the book, Nicole shares a personal story from her past.  A story that she had not shared very openly, until this book. A story of great pain.  Nicole is authentic and vulnerable, and those qualities allow a reader to develop a strong connection with an author.

  I love that this book tells it like it is...the struggles we face in life are REAL.  Real hard, real painful, real long, real _____ (blank).  This is not a book that gives you 5 ways to eliminate all your struggles, but Nicole encourages her readers that we can learn from our struggles.  We can bring Jesus into our struggles and grow more than we ever imagined.

 After reading this book, you will feel hopeful!  As stated above, one of my favorite things about Nicole is that she will leave you with practical things you can do to find freedom... freedom in Jesus. 

Thanks Nicole for writing another book that will help so many women (and men, if they read it)!  Thanks to for the delicious ice-cream cone on the cover, that make me so hungry :)

  Go get a copy of this book and the companion bible study...you will be so glad you did!

 

Book Review: God Bless You and Good Night

 My latest review is of the book, God Bless You & Good Night (a touch and feel book).  I received a complimentary book from BookLook Bloggers, and in turn agreed to write this unbiased review.  I do not have little children at this stage, but I am a Preschool teacher and wanted to read this book to my class. 

 The board book is adorable and super colorful.  The book is about 9 different animal families, and their routines before they go to bed.  On every page, there is touch element for the kids to feel.  Basically, the book is about how kids get ready to go to bed, and all the special things they do before they go to sleep.  From getting a snack, to saying nighttime prayers. 

 This book would be wonderful to read to a young child before they go to bed.  The child could go through the same routines that the animals perform.  I would definitely recommend this book to parents of young children, 5 and under.  Thank you BookLook Bloggers!

Book Review: ThoughtFull

 My latest review is of the book, "Thoughtfull (Discovering the Unique Gifts in Each of Us)".  I received a complimentary copy of this book from B&H Publisher, and in turn agreed to write this review. 

"Thoughtfull" is a children's book about a boy named Ahanu, and his friend, Joshua.  Ahanu is a boy with Down Syndrome who wins an award for being "thoughtful".  In the story, Joshua overhears a couple boys making fun of Ahanu.  This troubles Joshua, and he finds a way to help the boys understand how special, and very thoughtful, Ahanu really is. 

 I love that this book is about a boy with special needs.  As a mother of a special needs child, I think it is important for children to read books about children with all different kinds of abilities.  I think this book would be great for Preschool and Elementary age children.  I believe this book can generate some very good conversations in the home and school.

 I highly recommend this book if you have young children.  I enjoyed reading it as an adult too!

Book Review: God's Blessings Day by Day

BookLook Bloggers sent me a complimentary copy of God's Blessings Day by Day Devotional, and I in turn agreed to write this review.  It is a 52 week (daily) devotional for young children. I feel it would be good for Preschool age children to about age 10 (although younger and older children may enjoy reading it as well).  Tommy Nelson publishing released it, and it is a collaboration of devotions from pastors, children ministers, and other church leaders.

 The book is adorably illustrated with the cutest little animals on every other page.  Children will be drawn to the pictures in the book. However, I think the parent, or whomever is reading the devotion with the child will love that the devotions are short and to the point.  Each devotional contains a bible verse, short devotion, a prayer, and a take-away point.  In today's world it is hard to hold the attention of children for a long time, and this devotion can easily be done in 5 mins or less.  In saying that, a parent (or another adult) could easily expand on this devotional for as long as they wish.

 This is definitely a resource that can be used over and over, as the lessons and topics covered in the devotional are ones that children (and adults) need to hear repeatedly. I would recommend this devotional to parents of young children.  I love that it was written from pastors and ministers that work with children.

Book Review: The 4 Wills of God (B&H Bloggers)

 I love Dr. Emerson Eggerich!  His book "Love and Respect" was a game changer for me in regards to my marriage.  If he writes a book, I want to read it.  So. it is no surprise that I requested to review his latest book, "The 4 Wills of God (The Way He Directs Our Steps and Frees Us to Direct Our Own).  The title of the book also intrigued me...4 Wills of God?  I had to find out what Dr. Eggerich was referring to in his book.  (I received a complimentary copy of this book, and in turn agreed to write this review)

  One of the biggest questions in Christian circles has to do with knowing the "will of God" for your life.  I have heard this question asked so many times among my peers. I too have uttered the same question... God, what is your will for my life?  Dr. Eggerich went through the Bible, and discovered that God revealed 4 specific universal commands (or wills).  Eggerich says that there is more to God's universal will than the 4 the book refer to, but he wanted to begin with the 4 God declares in His Word.

 The 4 "Wills" based on Scripture (which he cites in the book) are: Believe in Jesus Christ, Give Thanks in Everything, Submit in Doing Right, and Abstain from Sexual Sin.  Dr Eggerich goes on to say that if we begin with, and do these 4 things that God tells us to do, we will be following God's will.  When we are obedient to do these 4 things, we can experience God's unique and individual will for our lives.  If we are obedient to God's Word and are not in known sin, we have freedom to make decisions that are unique to our own lives. 

 I love how Dr. Eggerich breaks down the 4 Wills in the book, and gives Scripture references about each "Will".  He shares personal testimonies throughout the book.  Personal testimonies always help me to better relate to a subject matter.  Dr. Eggerich writes in a way that is so easy to read and understand.  I think this book can help people to not get so stressed about knowing God's specific detailed will for their lives.  Dr. Eggerich reminds us to do what God has already told us to do in regards to His will for us, and in that we may discover His will that is uniquely designed for our lives.

Book Review: I Can't Believe You Just Said That!

BookLook bloggers sent me a copy of "I Can't Believe You Just Said That!" by Ginger Hubbard.  I in turn agreed to write this review. 

 I love this book!  Ginger Hubbard is a sought after speaker and author.  I actually read one of her books when my children were younger.  I love the principles that are presented in her newest book, "I Can't Believe You Just Said That!".   As a parent, I think I have said or thought that same line when my children blurted something inappropriate or selfish out loud.  Ginger explains, that as parents we need to reach a child's heart, not just get them to perform the right action.

  This book is written from a Christian perspective, with an emphasis of reaching a child's heart with Scripture.  The behaviors that are discussed in this book are, whining, lying, manipulating, teasing, bragging, arguing, interrupting, bickering, as well as other inappropriate behaviors.  Ginger devotes a chapter to each misbehavior.

 (For ease, I am using the words "Good" and "Bad" to describe behaviors)
 Ginger gives examples of bad behaviors, and then gives examples of "heart-probing" questions to ask your child when he/she misbehaves.  She finishes up with what she calls (taken from the Bible) "put on" behaviors.  Most parents will use discipline to stop the child's bad behavior, but they don't help the child replace it with a good behavior.  Ginger uses Scripture to show parents how to help their children replace "bad" behaviors with good ones.

  I so wish I would have followed these principles when my children were younger.  I believe that the plan laid out in this book is a great one to reach a child's heart, and help them accept responsibility for his/her behaviors.  As a Christian, I love that Ginger's approach is based on the Bible.   I highly recommend this book, especially for parents of younger children. 

Book Review: Why Her?

My latest review is of the book, Why Her?, written by Nicki Koziarz.  I received this book from B&H Publishing, and in turn am writing this review.  Nicki is an author, bible study teacher, and speaker with Proverbs 31 Ministries.  I had never heard of Nicki until last year when I attended a conference where she was one of the speakers.  I enjoyed her message, so I definitely wanted to read her newest book.

 Why Her is about fighting the trap of comparison.  The subtitle of Nicki's book reads, "6 Truths We Need to Hear When Measuring Up Leaves Us Falling Behind".  Measuring up and comparison are things that most women seem to struggle with at some point during their lives.  Nicki does a wonderful job at identifying the traps that we can fall into when we measure ourselves against other women.  As always, I love when authors are vulnerable and share their personal stories of struggle.  Nicki has dealt with asking the "Why Her" question many times in her life.

 I especially love that Nicki uses the story of Rachel and Leah from the bible to introduce the subject of comparison.  Even in biblical times, women were dealing with heart issues of not measuring up.  Throughout the book, Nicki addresses 6 foundational truths that we need to know when we feel like asking the "Why Her" question.  I feel the 6 truths would be helpful in dealing with overcoming comparison.

 Overall, I really liked this book.  It was an easy read, as I read through it in 2 days.  Although, I read through it quickly, this is a book that one should go through at a slower pace to really digest what Nicki is trying to convey.  At the end of each chapter, she has written questions for you to ponder and answer.

 I would definitely recommend this book, and am happy that Nicki has written a corresponding bible study that goes with this book.  Thank you B&H Publishing!

Book Review: Live Fearless (A Call to Power, Passion and Purpose)

My most recent review is of Sadie Robertson's new book, Live Fearless.  Sadie is the daughter of well know Duck Dynasty star Willie Robertson and his wife.  Duck Dynasty launched Sadie into the public spotlight, but she also gained recognition through her "Dancing with the Stars" stint.  Sadie is an author, actress, and speaker.  I received this book from BookLook Bloggers and in turn am writing this review.

    Live Fearless is geared more toward an audience of preteen through young adulthood years.  However, I am in my 40's and I loved it!!! I read through it in about a day.  I would say the book definitely deals with the topic of overcoming Fear (and anxiety), but it goes deeper and talks about the attitude of living fearlessly with God's help.  However, someone that doesn't deal with the issue of fear would love this book as well.

  I love that Sadie shares personal stories about different life situations, and she oevrcame them with the help of God, and her family.  I didn't really know much about Sadie Robertson until I read this book.  I gladly recommend this book without hesitation to all women, especially teens and young adult women. This book is a must read!!!

  This book is set up like a study that you can work through to overcome fear, in whatever form that takes in your life.  Sadie has included features in which you will do some personal reflection  (IE: Here's a Question, Here's a Challenge, Here's Some Encouragement, Take Note and Work the Word-working you through Scripture). 

 Buy this book for the young women in your life, but read it first :)

Book Review: Stronger than the Struggle

My most recent review is of the book, "Stronger than the Struggle" written by Havilah Cunnington. BookLook Bloggers gave me a complimentary copy of this book, and I agreed to write this unbiased review. This review will be shorter than my typical reviews, because I am cautious to fully endorse authors that I do not know well (not personally). After reading the book, I think that the author and I have some different theological viewpoints. So, as with any book that you read, it is always a good practice to know what the author believes. "Stronger than the Struggle" is a book about fighting spiritual warfare. The author lays out uncomplicated and practical ways that Christians (believers) can "fight" their spiritual battles. I did like the way she shares many personal stories from her own life, and how she gave examples of fighting her own spiritual battles. I did not see any glaring biblical untruths, but I think we may have differences in our belief system (at this point I do not think they are foundational truths). There were many things I liked about what Havilah taught in this book. However, until I can do more research about her beliefs and teachings, I am cautious to fully endorse. It is always a good idea to read every book with caution, and make sure that the author lines up with biblical teaching. In the future, after doing some research about this author, I may come back and edit this review. In my life, I know Christians do not always line up with how they interpret Scripture. I have friends on both sides of some issues. However, Christians need to line up with the truth of who God is. Who Jesus is. The Gospel. There cannot be any compromise on those Truths.

Book Review: The Big Book of Bible Stories for Toddlers

B&H Publishing sent me a complimentary copy of "The BIG BOOK of Bible Stories for Toddlers", and I agreed to write this unbiased review. I love this book, and wish that there were toddlers in my home, so we could enjoy this book together. The first thing you notice are the bright and bold colors of the book cover. The beauty of colors continue throughout every page of the book. The pictures of the stories are captivating, and I love how the characters in the story are illustrated. I believe children/toddler's attention will be captured as one reads through the story. The book includes 19 bible stories taken from the Old and New Testament. Some of the Bible stories include; Adam and Eve, Abraham, Moses, David and several stories about Jesus. Each story is a paragraph long (with the Bible references above them), which is just perfect for a toddler or small child. Below each story are 2 circles. One circle is the "Big Picture Question" and the other is the "Big Picture Answer". The "Big Picture" questions and answers are the main ideas of each story. I love that a child can memorize small bits of information that will help them to understand the bible stories in the book. I am super excited about the interactive aspect of this book. You can download a free app that goes with the book. Once downloaded, the app will bring the illustrations to life. No kidding! The app uses technology that will cause the pictures in the book to become 3D. The pictures literally leap off the page with the use of your phone. The app also has a feature that will "tell" the story out loud. Toddlers, kids and adults will enjoy this fun feature. I would highly recommend this book for anyone with kids. This book is a great beginning resource to introduce children to Bible stories. I think this book would make a great gift as well. Thank you B&H publishing!

Book Review: The 365 Storybook Bible

I received a complimentary copy of "The 365 Day Storybook Bible published by B&H in exchange for this review. The 365 Day Storybook Bible is a book that you can read through in a year with your children, if you want to move at that pace. The book begins in Genesis and moves through the biblical stories up until the book of Acts. The stories of many of the Old Testament characters are covered (Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Samson, Elijah, Jonah, Esther and more). The stories that are told from the New Testament cover the lives of Jesus, the early church, Peter and Paul. In a world full of activity with little time to spare, this book makes it easy to share wonderful biblical stories with your children. The book advertises the fact that it contains "5-minute stories for every day". Most people can spare 5 minutes :) Hopefully, this book could be a catalyst to more than five minute devotions with your children. In most of my reviews, I am always drawn to children's books with beautiful illustrations. This book does not disappoint, as it contains illustrations that are bold, bright and colorful. This Storybook is not a specific bible translation, but a retelling of specific chapters of the stories chosen. For example, on Day 298 (Jesus Brings Lazarus to Life), it also lists the reference of John 11:20-44. I love this because as a parent, I can also read the exact bible verses that go with the story. I love when people retell a story, but when it comes to the bible, it is always best to go back to the Bible and make sure you are getting the truth from Scriptures. This book would be a great addition to a child's library. Thank you B&H for allowing me to review it.

Book Review: My Merry Christmas

My latest review is of the children's book, "My Merry Christmas" by Sally Lloyd-Jones. Sally Lloyd-Jones is a New York Times best-selling children's book author. I know of her because she is the author of the Platinum Award winner, The Jesus Storybook Bible. I am a preschool teacher and I am always looking for books that share the story of Jesus.
First of all, I have to say this book is beautifully illustrated. The colors are rich, and children will love the illustrated animal and people characters. It is a board book, and that is especially good for young readers that are still learning to be gentle with books. I too love that the book is a rhyming story. As an adult, I love to read stories to children that rhyme, as it makes the reading experience more enjoyable.
My favorite part of the book is that Sally Lloyd-Jones helps children relate popular holiday symbols (trees, lights, etc) to the true story of Christmas. I love any time an author can help one to see the story of Jesus in Christmas, especially young children. This book is one I would suggest for parents of young children to purchase, and add to their Christmas book collection. Thank you B&H Publishing for giving me a complimentary copy of this book.
(I agreed to write this unbiased review for a complimentary copy of this book).

Book Review: Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children

Handlebar group sent me a complimentary copy of Jodie Berndt's book, Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children (Trusting God with the Ones You Love), and I agreed to write this unbiased review. Jodie is an author, speaker and bible study teacher. She has also written books about praying the Scriptures for your children and teens.
I decided to review this book, as I have children that are transitioning into adulthood. Each chapter in the book focuses on different stages in your adult child's life (IE: marriage, friends, jobs, finances, etc). The author shares stories about her own family, as well as stories from other parents of adult children. I was encouraged to read the personal stories of other parents, as they prayed for their adult children in all kinds of situations. All the stories were not necessarily happy ones, many were ones of pain and struggle. I think all parents that read this book can relate in some way to the personal stories of those in the book.
At the end of each chapter, you will find Scriptures that can be prayed over your children. The author also writes out prayers you can pray for yourself and your children. The Scriptures and prayers in the book correlate with the different stages and situations of your adult children's life.
Although the book is intended to help you pray for your children, I found the book to be helpful for my own life. I feel this book would be a good resource for anyone, regardless if they are a parent or not.