"Les Miserables (Focus on the Family Radio Theater)" Review

   I was so very excited when Tyndale offered "Les Miserables" (Focus on the Family Radio Theater) for review.  Tyndale provides me the resource complimentary and I in turn agree to write a review.  I have never officially read Victor Hugo's book, "Les Miserables", but I have seen the movie and most recently the movie musical of the book that was just released during Christmas, so I am familiar with the story of "Les Miserables".   For this review I am really not going to go into details about the story itself as I figure most people are familiar with it.  I too would let you know that this presentation was all story telling and not at all a musical (no songs).

   I know this story has appeal to a vast audience, but as a Christian the redemption of Jean Valjean's life would be enough for me to watch and listen to the story over and over again.  I am too saddened by Inspector Javert's determination not to accept and give mercy, but to die by the letter of the law.  Ok, I did say I would not go too much into detail about the story so I will stop here and continue reviewing the resource I was given by Tyndale :)

  Focus on the Family Radio Theater have several radio drama presentations, including "The Chronicles of Narnia" series.  I listened to all of the Narnia series and was impressed with the quality of the audio CDS.  So when offered the audio presentation of "Les Miserables" I didn't hesitate.  The quality of sound of "Les Miserables" was perfect.  I listened to all 3 cds in my car and I got lost in the story as I listened (don't worry not to lost that I didn't safely drive). 

   My favorite thing about the audio presentation was the acting itself.  The story and characters felt believable and as far as a radio presentation goes I thought the acting was really good.  Especially the actor that played the role of "Jean Valjean".   Overall, I loved the audio presentation and felt the actors did a fine job, but I did get a bit distracted as in my mind some of the actors sounded "older" than what I pictured the characters to be.  IE: The actress that played "Fantine" sounded like she was in her 30 to 40's and I pictured her being in her early twenties.  Again, it didn't really take away from the story, but sometimes people picture characters the way they want or know them to be from the actual story. 

   In conclusion, I highly recommend purchasing this CD set from Focus on the Family.  It would be a great resource for the family (use discretion with children because of mature subjects) to use while they are traveling in the car on vacation, or to use during a family story time as well.  It is a timeless story that can be told over and over again and never get old.

 Thank you Tyndale for giving me this resource.

She's Got Issues (DVD GROUP EXPERIENCE) Review

  Oh my goodness, here I am again to tell you about a wonderful new resource for women.  I was blessed by Tyndale to review Nicole Unice's newest release, "She's Got Issues (A DVD Group Experience), AKA "a Bible study".  With a title like, "She's Got Issues" I figured it had to be good because who doesn't have "issues" :)  Tyndale sent me the DVD Curriculum complimentary and I in turn am posting this review.

   I had never heard of Nicole Unice before, but after watching the entire DVD of her new study I am sure I will hear of her more often in the future.  Nicole is a counselor and a ministry leader and she based this DVD study on her popular book with the same name "She's Got Issues".   (Taken from back cover of DVD) "Nicole talks candidly about the everyday issues that can hold you back from living free and loving well."

   The DVD is set us as a 6 session teaching series with an introduction and wrap-up included.   (Taken from back of DVD) This study is "perfect for churches and small groups, this group experience includes candid interviews, individual journaling prompts, insightful and biblical teaching from Nicole, and group discussion."

  One of the things I like the best about this study is when Nicole interviews a woman from the group that she is teaching.  The 4 or 5 minute interview begins each teaching session. Nicole interviews 6 different women over the 6 sessions.  Each woman that is interviewed talks about one of the topics that Nicole will be teaching on (Control, Insecurity, Comparisons, Fear, Anger, and Unforgiveness).  The women being interviewed are completely honest and vulnerable when speaking about their specific "issue".  The interviews are a wonderful way to set up the teaching session by Nicole. 

   I had mentioned that I had never heard of Nicole Unice before so I didn't know what to expect when it comes to her teaching style.  Well I can say that Nicole does a wonderful job at addressing all of the 6 "Issues" and she gives biblical insight and counsel in how to deal with each issue.  Her teachings will challenge participants to wrestle and fight to find freedom from the issues and sin that bind them up physically, emotionally, and most important; spiritually. 

  After reviewing this DVD experience I want to gather a group of women together and go through this study.  It is suggested on the back cover of the DVD to go through this Group experience with a  bible study group, or a women's group.  An hour would be sufficient to meet, or you could go a little longer than an hour.  

 I would say you probably should also purchase the book if you are going to complete this study as the book goes more into detail and includes information that is not on the DVD.   I fully recommend this study to all women, whether as an individual or in a group.  I am definitely looking forward to hearing more from Nicole Unice in the future.

Tyndale Book Review- "Whole"

Tyndale provided me with a complimentary copy of Lisa Whittle's newest book release,
"{W}hole", and in turn I agreed to write a review for the book. Up until this point I had never really heard of Lisa Whittle and her ministry, but the title of the book intrigued me. Basically the premise of the book is that we all have "holes" in our lives, but Jesus can make our holes "whole".

Overall, I really liked Lisa's book and I would definitely read other books of Lisa's in the future. I think my favorite part of the book is Lisa's writing style and how she writes with such authenticity. I was engaged from the very beginning of the book and for me that is when I make my decision of whether or not I can actually finish a book. Well, I finished the book.

Another thing I appreciated about Lisa was that she was very vulnerable with what she chose to share in the book. She shared personal stories about her life, including a very painful story about what happened to her father. One of the beautiful parts of the book is that you get to see how Jesus worked through those painful situations to bring healing and wholeness to Lisa and her family.

The book is broken up into 8 chapters including an introduction and conclusion chapter. The 6 chapters inbetween deal with 3 areas (religion, roles, and experiences) we can develop "holes" in
and how Jesus can make each of those areas whole. An excerpt from the back of the book reads, "In Whole, Lisa calls you to take an honest look at your holes, discover how to fill them with God's presence, and get to a real and vibrant place of wholeness instead." I could not have said it better myself.

In closing, "Whole" is a refreshing book that is full of scripture and pratical, biblical steps that readers can take in order to grow in their relationships with Jesus. You will feel encouraged and challenged to seek the "wholeness" and healing that Jesus provides. Most importantly Lisa reminds us that the most important thing in our lives, outside of our religion, roles, and experiences is that we have a solid relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus.

Tyndale Book Review-"Courageous"

Oh my goodness, I just finished the book "Courageous", and it was FABULOUS!!! If you are thinking, "hey isn't that the name of the new movie coming out in September from the makers of "Facing the Giants" and "Fireproof", then you would be correct. If you have no idea what I am talking about it doesn't matter because this book is wonderful, even if you never see the movie.

Tyndale provided me a complimentary copy of the book, and in turn I must submit a review of the book (Thanks Tyndale). I debated whether or not to read the book, as I was so looking forward to seeing the movie and letting the storyline unfold as I watch the movie. But, curiosity got the best of me and I decided to read the book first. I am so glad I did. Randy Alcorn (author of Heaven) is the author of this book, based on the movie by the Kendrick Brothers. Alcorn states that about 20% was actually taken directly from the script and then he came up with the rest in order to turn it into a novel.

I don't want to give any of the details of the storyline away because I don't want to spoil it for those that are waiting to see the movie first. However, I will say that this book has more twists and turns that will keep your head spinning (in a good way of course). You jump head into the drama of the story in the first few pages, and it keeps getting better and better. I pride myself on being able to figure out a storyline, but this book kept surprising me as the story progressed. Alcorn is a terrific writer, and the Kendrick brothers gave him a great script that he was able to turn into a great book.

If a book can make you cry, then this book will require you to keep a box of tissues near. Don't worry you will smile too as there are some funny moments scattered throughout the dramatic storyline.

The thing that I love the most about this book is that the gospel is presented clearly, and throughout the whole book you are pointed back to Jesus. The book portrays very difficult subject matter, and Alcorn never states that if a person believes in Jesus all his problems will be solved, but he shows that Jesus can walk with us throughout our most difficult times in life and give us peace.

If I had to evaluate what the main theme of this book would be it would be the awesome responsibility of "fathers" in society today. Although the focus is on the role of fathers, this book will speak to all people (women, children, single, married, divorced, lonely, hurting, etc). I highly recommend this book, and now I cannot wait to see the movie.

Thanks again Tyndale for the opportunity to read this book!

Tyndale Review for "unPlanned" DVD

Click HERE to be directed to a trailer for the DVD...

Recently I was asked if I wanted to participate in Tyndale's Blog Tour for the new DVD "unPlanned", and I instantly said yes because I love to watch any DVD that will encourage me in my Christian walk. Tyndale sent me a complimentary copy of the new DVD titled, "unPlanned", and I in turn must write a review of the DVD on my blog. "unPlanned" is a documentary about Abby Johnson, a clinic director of a Planned Parenthood in Texas. Abby made national news when she left her position as director of Planned Parenthood to join the right-to-life- movement.

I have heard Abby Johnson speak on a couple of Christian radio stations over the last year, but I did not follow her story as it was happening. The "unPlanned" DVD is a Focus on the Family production so I felt that I could definitely trust the views presented in the film. As mentioned, I did have a little bit of knowledge about Abby's story from listening to her on Christian radio programs, but I did not really grasp the whole story until I watched the DVD. I really enjoyed the DVD, and I loved how Abby authentically shared her life story in this documentary. She shares much of her own past that lead her up to her decision to pursue a career with Planned Parenthood, and how she dealt with some of the doubts and questions she had during that time.

One of the things that impressed me was how Abby interacted with the employees from "The Coalition for Life" organization (Pro-Life). In this documentary you will see interviews with the people that were involved with "Coalition for Life", and they discuss how they built a relationship with Abby over many years as she worked for Planned Parenthood. I like that you get to get a glimpse of what some Pro-Life organization are really about, as so many negative views are out there about Pro-Life movements that are radical and the people, judgmental. You will see that the "Coalition for Life" organization reached out to women and wanted to love and encourage them by sharing God's love with them. They fought for the life of unborn children, but they also loved and cared for the women and employees that were at Planned Parenthood.

Overall, I think this DVD was very good and it would be great to watch individually or in a small group. I could even see this resource being used in a Church for the whole congregation, especially those churches that are involved with Pro-Life ministries.

Tyndale has so graciously agreed to give an "unPlanned" dvd away here at my blog. All you have to do is leave a comment and a way to reach you, and I will randomly pick one person next Friday (the 13th) to win the DVD.

If you are interested, there will be an Unite for LIFE free webcast featuring Abby Johnson on May 17 at 8:00 P.M. (in all time zones) at the website, www.uniteforlifewebcast.org . This webcast will benefit pregnancy care organizations and you will be able to purchase "unPlanned" resources at that time. 33% of all purchases will be donated to several crisis pregnancy organizations.

Again, make sure to leave a comment to enter the giveaway for a free "unPlanned" DVD.

Blessings...

Tyndale Blogger Book Review- "Coming Back Stronger"

I received a complimentary copy of the book, "Coming Back Stronger" written by Drew Brees from Tyndale. In exchange for the book I am to write a review of it on my site and another consumer site. Being that this book was about football, I decided to give this book to my husband and let him read and review it. He is passionate about football, so I thought he would do a better job at writing this particular review. See review below...

“Coming Back Stronger” by Drew Brees

As a huge football fan and a man who considers himself to being a man in the pursuit of the “heart of God”, I found this book to be a good read from a spiritual standpoint, and an incredible read from a “football and life” perspective. It covers the life story of Drew Brees from childhood to where his life has taken him to this point, is well written and edited, and will appeal to the sports enthusiast.

First, from a spiritual standpoint, I found if uplifting to see the many references to God and the relationship that was forged through the many, many trials and tribulations that Drew has endured throughout his lifetime. While a couple of the statements can leave the reader questioning whether they are sound in terms of doctrine and meeting the test of truth against what the Bible states, these are few and far between, and an indication of a man who is clearly and openly learning on his journey with God (as any honest Christian would hopefully admit the same).

Second, from a football standpoint, this book cannot be beat! I remember nearly every game that was mentioned in this book (especially the ones against my beloved Tampa Bay Buccaneers), and it was so neat to be immersed in those games once again from a first person perspective. At times the cliches can be a tad redundant, but for any person who has a passion for football, this book is a must read! One word of caution: Should you buy this book for someone, make sure they are pretty knowledgeable in the game of football. My wife tried to read the book and was lost after only three pages. This book goes full bore into football terminology such as offensive and defensive sets, play reads, formation coverages, call cadence, etc. If you don't have an intermediate to advanced knowledge of football, you could become lost in some of the verbiage quite quickly.


Finally, from a life perspective, Drew opens up a lot into what has made him the Super Bowl winning, Pro Bowl quarterback who he is today. He doesn't shy away from talking about the deepest days of his life, whether it be the shoulder separation and severe damage he suffered on his throwing arm, his dysfunctional childhood, or, most of all, the death of his mother from suicide. He mentions the light-hearted and funny pursuit of his wife, and the joy of being a father. Many other things are covered that are too numerous to mention in this short review, but it leaves the reader feeling that Drew is a person just like you and me, and would be someone who would have a genuine conversation with you should you run into him without looking down on you or conveying a sense of superiority.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend this book to any sports minded fan who enjoys football. While it may not be for everyone, it is well written and a good read to be encouraged, motivated, and challenged by. I would rate it an 8 out of 10, and not shy away from telling others to invest the time in reading it!

Tyndale Blog Book Review

I signed up to review books for Tyndale House Publishers, and the first book that I chose to review was "Sleep, It Does a Family Good" by author Dr. Archibald D. Hart. Why choose a book on sleep? Well, first because my husband always tells me I don't get the right amount of sleep :), and second I agree with him one hundred percent. Dr. Hart's book is also a "Focus on the Family" resource and that basically sealed the deal for me and so I requested the book.

After only reading a chapter or two of the book I was hooked and decided that I really did need to change my sleeping patterns. At the beginning of the book, Dr. Hart goes into much detail to show his readers that sleep deprivation is source of so many issues that people have, especially health issues. The book is supported by research and studies that have been done in the past. I think the best research was from Dr. Hart himself. He shares a bit of his own personal testimony about how changing his sleeping patterns changed his quality of living for the better.

The book also discusses how readers can help their children and teenagers develop healthy sleeping patterns. Dr. Hart's book really was written to help families as a whole. The book is full of helpful hints, resources and charts that will help the reader begin his/her journey toward sleeping better. A bonus for me was that the last chapter of the book is on sleep and a family's spirituality. As a Christian I appreciated that Dr. Hart added that chapter in the book.

I highly recommend this book for anyone. To those that know they are not getting enough sleep this book will be a great tool to get them develop those healthy sleeping patterns. And to those that think they are getting enough sleep, they maybe surprised to realize that they need even more sleep. I have already begun taking steps toward changing my sleeping patterns, and I hope to reap the benefits soon. Well, I got to go take a nap :)