Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Book Review: Believe: Kids Edition by Randy Frazee

Believe: Kid’s Edition is an adaptation of a campaign led by Randy Frazee, also geared toward adults. The book has 30 chapters, or lessons, to guide 8-12 year olds through what Christians believe. They are divided into 3 categories: think, act, and be, to show kids how we as Christian are expected to think, act, and become more like Jesus.

Each Chapter begins with a key question, idea, and verse followed by a paragraph of things to think about to guide and prepare the child’s mind for the scripture section. The bulk of the chapter is simply scripture with italicized introductions. Scripture is presented in the NIrV, which I personally don’t prefer, but it works well in this context. The chapters end with a set of discussion questions to reflect on the scripture readings and how they apply to the child’s life and behavior. There is a section at the front that explains the format and how to use it with your children.

I need to point out that I have not read the adult version of this book, so I can’t really compare the two. I think the kids edition is a wonderful introduction to the Christian faith and what we believe. I do plan to hang onto it for my kids to work through when they are older. It doesn’t get into different theological belief systems or branches of theology, but does a great job covering some basic concepts for Christian living in a Bible-based manner. I would probably plan to use it when my children are closer to 8 or 9 and expand further from there.

Overall I though the book works well for its purposes and would recommend in to parents desiring to take their children through a basic overview of the Bible and our Christian faith!



I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The Beginners Bible, Wild About Creation Sticker & Activity Book from Zonderkidz


Wild About Creation is a kids sticker book full of activities appropriate for preschool – 2nd grade children. It tells the story of creation through the fall with pictures and stories easy for young children to grasp and interact with. The activities are varied so as to provide the child at least a few hours of entertainment!

I acquired this book for my daughter, who is only a year old right now, in anticipation of having it for her when she is old enough to get some use out of it. I thought that the illustrations were bright, colorful, and attractive to a young child. Indeed, as I am working on this review my daughter keeps trying to get her hands on the book!

The Story of creation and the fall is presented accurately and in a manner easy for a child to understand. It doesn’t really explain much about sin, just that Adam and Eve ate forbidden fruit and had to leave the garden. I would suggest going through the book with your child and filling in some of the missing concepts. However, as far as sticker books go I was satisfied with the quality and content! I would definitely recommend it for young children as a good Bible-based activity!

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255


Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Book Review: The Day is Waiting Illustrated by Don Freeman, Words by Linda Zuckerman


The Day is Waiting is a delightful children’s book illustrated by Don Freeman, the author of Corduroy. It is written from a child’s point of view, about going out to see things in the world and coming home at the end of the day. I would recommend it for children age three to eight (give or take).

I was very excited to receive this book for my daughter, and was not disappointed! The illustrations are beautiful and a delight to look at, and Linda Zuckerman did a great job putting them to a story line. I wouldn’t say it really has a spiritual message, but Isaiah 55:12 is quoted at the very end, and its theme is touched upon throughout the book. Seeing the pictures by Don Freeman is a bit nostalgic for me, as Corduroy was one of my favorite books as a child, and I can’t wait to share this with my daughter when she is a little older.

Overall I think this is a great addition to a child’s library!



I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: A Worthy Pursuit by Karen Witemeyer


Charlotte Atherton is faced with a dilemma. The school she has taught music at for the past decade is closing down for reasons the headmaster will not explain, and three of her students have nowhere to go. Charlotte is the legal guardian of the little girl, but in order to keep her safe she must go into hiding.

Stone Hammond, a very successful bounty hunter, has been sent to retrieve a little girl he was told has been kidnapped. It turns out this retrieval isn’t quite what he bargained for! Along the way, will Charlotte and Stone find what they were looking for, or something else altogether?

Set in the late 1800’s, A Worthy Pursuit is an enjoyable piece of historical romance that I found myself quickly wrapped up in. The main characters are learning to trust each other while falling in love trying to protect Lilly, a dime novel loving little girl being pursued by her dangerous grandfather. Both characters also get the chance to grow in their faith in God, and move forward from past traumas.

I found the book to be suspenseful with a well-written plot, although a few details were just a little too over the top (I don’t want to give anything away though). I definitely recommend A Worthy Pursuit to those who appreciate historical fiction and romance.


I received this book for free from the publisher through the BethanyHouse Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Book Review: Lethal Beauty by Lis Wiehl


Lis Wiehl continues her Mia Quinn series with an installment that does not disappoint! Mia Quinn, a county prosecutor and single mother, is attempting to get a conviction for the murder of an undocumented immigrant. As other cases surface, they all seem to start connecting to the same location. Mia and her detective friend Charlie attempt to uncover the truth, but as they get closer, the situation becomes more dangerous for everyone involved.

I definitely enjoyed this book as much as the previous two in the series. As Lethal Beauty takes place shortly after the previous books, elements not yet resolved between the characters continue. Although the plot progresses quickly and is an enjoyable read, certain personal interactions continue to move gradually. We have seen previously that Mia has the interest of two men close to her, although she seems largely oblivious to how much she could mean to them. This theme is likely to continue throughout the series, so we’ll have to wait for more books to be released to see what comes of it. Other character development is ongoing as well, including Mia’s relationship with God and feelings about Church.

I appreciate how Mia’s human struggles are presented realistically. She faces failure and disappointment just like the rest of us do, and sometimes responds in a less than appropriate manner. We can learn from her mistakes and connect with her trials as she navigates her personal and professional lives.

If you liked the first two books in the series, you will enjoy this one as well. I would recommend this book for mature readers based on some of the adult themes present in the story.



I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Book Review: Two Renegade Realms by Donita K. Paul


In this exciting sequel to One Realm Beyond, Cantor, Bixby, Bridger, and Dukmee return after two years to embark upon a new adventure! With the Realm Walkers guild in shambles and the Council corrupt, they race the clock to prepare for an imminent invasion from two dangerous realms. Since the invasion has happened before, a very long time ago, Bixby's parents send them to seek information that may save the realms to be invaded. However, they are soon sidetracked into a quest to rescue Chomountain (the “right hand of Primen”).

Without saying too much more, suffice it to say that this fantasy novel has its share of twists and turns! It doesn't really stand on its own, but is better enjoyed after reading the first book. I said this in my review of the first book, but the rich imagery and imaginative details make a book that would be wonderful as a movie as well!

So far, these first two books in the Realm Walkers series are well written fantasy novels that teach real spiritual truths through the story, in addition to making highly enjoyable novels! I enjoyed Two Renegade Realms as thoroughly as I did the first novel, although I didn't find myself laughing quite so hard at Bridger’s antics until a ways into the book. I definitely recommend both this and the first book, and I can’t wait for the next in the series!



I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Monday, February 2, 2015

Book Review: NKJV Study Bible, Second Edition, Full Color Edition - Thomas Nelson Publishers



I currently have the pleasure of reading through the new full color edition of the NKVJ Study Bible, and after reading through Job and Genesis I have enough of a feel for it to write a review. I will make some comparisons with the first edition from 1997 (not in color) which I also have access to, as well as give my thoughts on the general content and quality of the Bible.

Comparison of Content

The Second Edition contains study annotations similar to the original edition. I compared some of the annotations in Genesis and Job and didn't see a difference, so as far as the general notes there doesn't seem to be much of a difference. Both editions have word studies, articles, charts, and maps. Many of them are the same, but the new edition has added and updated some of the content. Also, the second edition has Bible Times and Culture Notes, which give background information on some of the cultural practices during Bible times. These provide historical insight to the passages and I found them to be quite enriching. The first edition also had eight FullView Bible summaries, which are missing from the second. I must say that these FullView Bible summaries were a little awkward in the first edition, as they were printed on thicker, colored paper and appeared to be glued into parts of the thinner pages near the binding. The Second Edition seems cleaner without them.

Format and Layout

The book introductions in the second edition are formatted in such a way as makes them easier to read, through the use of color, layout, and font. Another big difference that makes the second edition more user-friendly is the placement of the center column references. The first edition had them in boxes in the middle of the annotations. I think the idea was to make the Biblical text itself appear cleaner. However, it made the page appear “busy” to me. The second edition has them back in the center margin of the text, and shaded blue. To me, this is easier since I am used to glancing in the center to find this information. In general, I think the format of the second edition is easier to follow, and the use of color in this particular version helps the pages appear less cluttered.

Review of Content

As far as the content of the NKJV study Bible in general, I really like the articles, maps, charts, word studies and other features. The annotations themselves seem a little lacking to me, but they are great for someone newer to study Bibles in general. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not enough to where I can’t gain some great insights through reading it, but sometimes I wish the annotations took a stronger stance on certain interpretations. There are areas of Genesis chapter 1 where it mentions a few common views about the timeline of creation and then leaves the reader to form their own opinions. This may be fine for some, but I wish it would analyze the original Hebrew and look at it in context. There are other areas in Job where it seems to follow very mainstream opinions (specifically about the proposed identities of Leviathan and Behemoth) where I have read better analyses in other study Bibles.

Craftsmanship

The copy that I have is hard back and thread bound with a ribbon bookmark. The pages are more durable than normal Bible pages without adding too much extra bulk. The print is a good size and easy to read (although not large print). As I mentioned before, the Bible is put together in a way that isn't too crowded, even though it has a lot going on.

All criticism aside, I’m really enjoying reading the Second Edition NKJV Study Bible, and I think it is a great one to add to your collection. It is also a great starting place for someone who wants an in-depth study Bible but might be new to study Bibles in general. Hopefully I've been able to provide enough comparison for those who have the first edition and are considering upgrading to the new one. It is definitely much improved and I would recommend making the switch!


I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255


Friday, January 30, 2015

Book Review: Churchless, with General Editors George Barna and David Kinnaman



Have you ever thought that America is not as “Christian” as it used to be? Or that fewer Christians in thsi country seem to have a church home? Churchless takes a look at the exodus that Americans have taken from churches over the last several decades. Powered by research from the Barna Group, which has been conducting research on churchgoing and spiritual opinions and habits of Americans for the last thirty years, the authors take a look at recent trends in an attempt to understand the reasons and motivations for church attendance, or the lack thereof.

Although it was full of survey results, I found the book to be an easy read, and quite eye-opening. Through the research, many shifts in culture become apparent in relation to the reasons church attendance is down. Churchless would be a great resource for church leaders, specifically those in charge of outreach. It doesn’t give simple step-by-step solutions to bring people back to the Church and to Christ, but there really is no simple answer. Instead, the reader is provided with awareness and general areas to target. Getting to know one’s local community is encouraged.

I did feel as though the book put too much emphasis on church attendance itself instead of evangelism. Since most non-church attendees are not born again Christians, it strikes me that the target needs to be more along the lines of evangelism. However, they do examine how churches are viewed by non-believers and can better structure outreach to target current cultural trends.

The information presented in Churchless is something that Christians today need to be aware of, particularly church leaders. I recommend this book to anyone seeking to reach the churchless for Christ!



I received this book for free from the publisher through the Tyndale House Publishers blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Monday, January 26, 2015

Book Review: The Global War on Christians by John L. Allen Jr.


When I picked up The Global War on Christians, I expected to hear a good bit about persecution in various parts of the world, but I’m not sure I was prepared for the intensity of atrocities lined out in the book. The author successfully paints a picture of persecution aimed at Christians, and other religions as a major human rights concern affecting many areas of the globe. The first half of the book is packed with example upon example of Christians being tortured or killed for their faith or while doing the Lord’s work.  I won’t lie; it was a difficult read. I kept stopping to take a break from it because it was getting monotonous after awhile and I kept thinking “OK I get it!”, but Mr. Allen makes his point well. His collection of stories is merely a taste of what is going on.

Mr. Allen is careful to define what he means by a global war on Christians, and he states that in truth, Christians are not the only persecuted religion in the world and at times are the perpetrators and not only the victims. However, Christianity seems to be the most persecuted religion in the world, even in areas where Christians make up the majority.

However, this is not merely a collection of stories and facts, as the author takes the second half of the book to explore myths about this War, showing that this crisis is not a political issue, nor is it “all about Islam” (as many might assume these days). He gives examples of Muslims risking their lives to help their Christian neighbors and people from all political walks becoming victims.

I think that The Global War on Christians does a good job making the reader aware of the real issues – not political causes or other such issues we deal with in America. I had a hard time getting through it but I’m glad I did, because it made me think in a more global perspective. It’s a book I would recommend, but if you have a hard time getting through the first half with all the stories, skip to part two and at least continue reading there.


I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Saturday, January 10, 2015

A Little Update and Five Things I Love the Most About the New Kitchen

It's been way too long since I updated my blog, and I am sure I have quite a few things to catch up on. For now I'll just give a brief update.

First of all, we moved back in to the house in early November! We wanted to be out of the trailer before winter set in, as the trailer doesn't heat efficiently. The kitchen is in working order, although we still have some trim work to finish. We are living in the two front bedrooms and bathroom. We use one room for sleeping and have the other set up as a living room. It's been quite comfortable compared to the trailer, but of course we are looking forward to getting everything else finished.

As I mentioned in a previous post, we put carpet down in the two front room as a temporary floor. Once we get a little further we will put real floors down (either hardwood or engineered).

In the meantime, I am enjoying my kitchen and ability to spread out a little! Here are a few pictures of what I'm really enjoying about the kitchen.

The sink: I cannot properly express how much I LOVE this sink! It's nice and deep, so water doesn't easily splash out of it, and it's one big compartment that I can fit just about anything in! All inconveniences of prior sinks are gone with this one! My daughter's little bathtub fits perfectly inside it too!


The awesome six burner plus grill range: I haven't run out of burner space yet, and the grill makes it easy to do delicious steaks inside in the winter... as long as I turn on the downdraft so my smoke detectors don't do off!!!


My amazing warming drawer: I've never had one of these before, but let me tell you it has been a lifesaver! Have you ever tried to cook breakfast, including eggs to order for more than just yourself only to discover that in order for everyone to sit down at eat together something ends up cold? Turn this baby on and put the bacon in it while you finish the eggs. Everything goes in here once it's done so it's all nice and warm when it's time to eat!


My not-so-empty pantry: When I emptied the trailer pantry, everything spread out to make this one look full! It still has plenty of room, but everything is accessible now instead of buried! (And no, it's not particularly organized right now!)


The spacious prep-space that is the island: I love it! We have plenty of other counter space too, but I love all this prep space! When it's time to fix dinner, I clear it off and fill it with whatever I am making. Something about islands just makes cooking easier, and I have so much room on this one I don't have to spill on to other areas while cooking!


So that's it for now. I'm sure I will have plenty to blog about soon enough now that the baby is more or less on a nap schedule so I can structure my time better! My goal is to post once a week about the house, so we'll see if I can keep up with it! 

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