Revisiting the Corruption of the New Testament, Editor Daniel B Wallace

Genre- Religion/Textual Criticism/New Testament

Revisiting the Corruption of the New Testament edited by Daniel B. Wallace

Published by- Kregel Academic & Professional

Copyrighted- October 2010

Number of pages- 304

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $29.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-3338-2, First in the Series

This is the first book in a series of the Text and Canon of the New Testament.  This series focuses on issues of textual criticism and talks about responses to Bart Ehrman’s views of the New Testament.

Daniel B. Wallace is the editor of the book and author of one of the essays.  The other essays are written by his former interns.  They would be Philip M. Miller, Matthew P. Morgan, Adam G. Messer, Tim Ricchutti and Brian J. Wright.

Excerpt from the Book.

Endorsements.

About the Editor- Daniel B. Wallace is a director of the Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts, professor of New Testament studies at Dallas Theological Seminary, and senior New Testament editor of the NET Bible.

My thoughts- This was an interesting book.  It made me think about the many different ways the New Testament has been corrupted.  I have not read any of Bart Ehrman’s work, so I would recommend reading his writings before reading this book.

I found the footnotes on each page to be a great distraction.  I had a difficult time separating the text with the notes, so I think it would be better if the footnotes were at the end of each chapter.

I would not recommend this book for a lay person or a pastor who has not studied in textual criticism, patristics, and New Testament apocryphal literature.  If you have knowledge in these subjects and knew something of Bart Ehrman this book is for you.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Revisiting the Corruption of the New Testament edited by Daniel B. Wallace for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Big Book of History

Genre- Juvenile Nonfiction/History/General, Religion/Christianity/History

The Big Book of History

Authors- Laura Welch, Ken Ham, and Bodie Hodge

Published by- Master Books, A Division of New Leaf Publishing Group

Copyrighted- 2010

Number of pages- 15

Age Group- 7-12

Description of book- Panels only, list price $16.99, ISBN: 978-0-89051-632-4

The Big Book of History is a fun fold-out time-line that stretches 15 feet and covers Creation to today.

You will learn:

• Biblical/Christianity- the life of Christ
• World Events- Battle of the Alamo
• Inventions/Technology- musical instruments
• Civilizations- English Civil War

It also includes areas of extra information called, “Did You Know?”

Please click here to see an excerpt!

About the Authors-

Laura Welch is the Editor-in-Chief of New Leaf Publishing and has a great interest in history and writing.  She utilizes her education and experience in publishing, journalism and more to develop and complete her projects.

Ken Ham is from Australia, but now lives in Ohio, where he is CEO/president of Answers in Genesis.  He uses apologetics to communicate biblical truth and historical facts.  He is an author of many books.

Bodie Hodge has both a B.S. and M.S. in mechanical engineering.  Now he is a speaker, writer and researcher for Answers in Genesis USA.

What C (girl, recently turned 6, Kindergarten) Thought-

I like the Big Book of History.  It talked about mummification, the Trojan Horse, and Egyptians.  It discussed building with rocks.  I enjoyed the pictures.  I learned a lot.

I liked everything. I would recommend this book for kids my age.

What B (boy, age 7, almost 8, second grade) Thought-

I liked the Big Book of History.  My favorite sections were the “Did You Know?”  My favorite one was “water then ice.”  It dates back to day one, when the earth was made and continues to 2010. 

It was fun laying it out on the floor.  It really did stretch fifteen feet.  I also had fun zooming along in history.

I think book is good for kids my age.

Dad’s Thoughts-

It’s nice to have a visual timeline to help put events, inventions and people into perspective. Kids can see that “technology” existed long before the iPod, iPad and Playstation 3. Comparing World Events, Biblical/Christianity, Civilizations, and Inventions/Technology on the same timeline is like putting pieces of a puzzle together. The resulting picture makes sense. Too many times today only bits and pieces of information are taught to our kids leaving gaps in their education. The Big Book of History makes great strides in filling those gaps. Well worth the money.

My Thoughts-

I loved the Big Book of History.  Its panels folded out fifteen feet and were full of information.

B wanted to take a look at it as soon as I opened the package.  He had fun unfolding the time-line and zooming along in history.  B and I enjoyed laying on the floor learning about the history of the world.

C and I spent less time as this was not a current interest of hers, but she did enjoy the time she spent with me reading the information she wanted to learn.

I enjoyed everything.  I thought the divisions of Biblical/Christianity, World Events, Inventions/Technology, and Civilizations/Empires was a great idea.  It really helped put history into perspective for me.

I would highly recommend this book to everyone, because there is a lot to learn and it can be a lot of fun. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Big Book of History by Laura Welch, Ken Ham, and Bodie Hodge for free from Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The World of Animals

Genre- Juvenile Nonfiction/Science and Nature/General

Science/Reference

Science/General

The World of Animals Authors Martin Walters and Jinny Johnson

Published by- Master Books, A Division of New Leaf Publishing Group and My Father’s World

Copyrighted- 1999, second copywriting 2011

Number of pages- 256

Age Group- Juvenile

Description of book- hardback book, list price $24.99, ISBN: 978-0-89051-617-1

Originally published in 1999 by Paragon Publishing Ltd., My Father’s World and Master Books have rereleased this edition jointly.  The World of Animals includes over 1,000 animals divided into classification from simple to complex, microscopic worms to elephants.

This comprehensive book has photos, illustrations and diagrams to make this book fun for younger kids to look at while they are being read to or older kids to read by themselves.

Please click here to read an excerpt.

Our Experience- B and C were very excited when I showed this book to them. They enjoyed looking at the photos and then we would read about an animal of their choice.

We also used this book to learn more about worms when we were working on our nature study.

We have really enjoyed using this book for school and for fun.

What C (girl, who just turned 6, Kindergarten) thought- I liked it.  It was a good book.   There were lots and lots of animals.  There were rabbits, shrews, starfish and clown fish.  Momma read to me about the aardvarks.

I liked everything.  I would recommend this book for kids my age.

What B (boy, age 7, second grade) thought- The World of Animals was good.  I really liked it. 

In this book you learn about worms, amphibians, mammals and much more. We are mammals. If you are a crocodile you are not a mammal.

One of the animals you learn about is the rhino.  In school we learned about worms. 

I liked reading about the snakes.  I want to have a rattlesnake when I am older, with its venom taken out.

I think this book is good for kids my age for school or fun.  

My thoughts- I think this book is a wonderful addition to any homeschool or library.

I like the-

• color photos and illustrations
• charts listing main characteristics of animals
• dividing of animals into sections in the “Table of Contents” from simple animals (jellyfish) to complex (mammals)

I highly recommend this book.  It was fun and informational to read.

What Dad thought- The thing that gets your attention is the color leaping off the pages from the stunning photos. The illustrations, drawings and charts add another dimension to this book that will certainly aid in attracting and keeping kid’s attention. 

This is definitely a must have to any collection. The quality is superb and even if the kids just turn the pages for something to do they’ll still take something away every time.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The World of Animals for free from Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

World of Science

Genre- Juvenile Nonfiction/Science and Nature/General

Science/Reference

Science/General

World of Science Authors Parragon and Jinny Johnson

Published by- Master Books, A Division of New Leaf Publishing Group and My Father’s World

Copyrighted- 2004, second copywriting 2011

Number of pages- 248

Age Group- Juvenile

Description of book- hardback book, list price $24.99, ISBN: 978-0-89051-618-8

Originally published in 1999 by Paragon Publishing Ltd., My Father’s World and Master Books have rereleased this edition jointly.

World of Science includes over 800 illustrations and photos to help explain six sections in the scientific world:

• Matter and chemicals
• Energy, motion, and machines
• Electricity and magnetism
• Light and Sound
• Earth and life
• Space and time

This comprehensive book has photos, illustrations, and diagrams to make this book fun for younger kids to look at while they are being read to or older kids to read by themselves.  And over 60 experiments to do in school or for fun.

Please click here to see an excerpt!

What C (girl, recently turned 6, Kindergarten) thought-

I liked it.  I think it is good for kids my age to have read to them.  I like science.  I learned about the earth.  The earth is not flat.  I learned about molecules, atoms, quarks and other tiny little things. 

What B (boy, age 7, second grade) thought-

THE  book was good i mane WORLD  OF  SCIENCE.

in  the  back  of  the  book  there  ware a  bunch  of  science  projects.

I  THINK  THIS  BOOK  IS  GOOD  FOR  KIDS  MY  AGE. 

(The book was good.  I mean, World of Science.  In the back of the book there were a bunch of science projects.  I think this book is good for kids my age.)

You learn about atoms, leaning tower of Pisa, and space.

Dad’s thoughts-

Another great book by Parragon and Jinny Johnson. The subjects in each of the six scientific sections has two pages of information making it an easy and interesting read for kids. Lots of colorful & detailed pictures, graphs, illustrations and condensed biographies keep your interest in the subject.

It can be read to children just learning to read and is a good read for those more advanced in reading. This book gives a good basic explanation of each subject yet provides enough information for those wanting to pursue in-depth research.

The experiments in the back of the book are the icing on the cake. They are simple enough for the kids to do but need an adult for one or two items in each experiment. This is a nicely done covert way to get parents and their children to spend time together. I give this book 5 out of 5 Bunsen Burners.

My thoughts-

I really enjoyed looking at and studying this book.  I have always enjoyed learning about science and World of Science discusses different areas of science to help me show my children the basics. 

The kids and I had a lot of fun picking out the sections we would read and also learning about the scientists who were involved.

The most exciting part about the book was the selection of experiments we could choose from.  It will be fun in future years to read sections of the book and the do the experiments that correspond.

I highly recommend World of Science to homeschooling families as a resource or to children who love science and want to learn more.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received World of Science for free from Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Baby’s Little Bible retold by Sarah Toulmin and illustrated by Kristina Stephenson

Genre- Bible/Juvenile            

Baby’s Little Bible by Sarah Toulmin and illustrated by Kristen Stephenson

Published by- Lion Children’s Books

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 160

Age Group- Young Children

Description of book- Padded hardback, list price $9.99, Pink: ISBN 978-0-7459-6272-6, Blue: ISBN 978-0-7459-6271-9, also available as a gift edition with gilt edges and a ribbon marker

Adam and Eve and the birth of Jesus Christ are just some of Sarah Toulmin’s twenty favorite stories in this Bible and Kristina Stephenson’s illustrations offer many things to make the story come to life.  This colorful Bible was written for parent and child to read together.

Excerpt from the Book.

About the Author- Sarah Toulmin is a teacher, publicist and mom.  She began writing for her first child who was the first critic of this Bible.

About the Illustrator- Kristina Stephenson was a set and costume designer before she began illustrating children’s books.

Our Experience- B, C, and I sat down and read the old testament stories in our pink Bible.  We also spent a lot of time reading the new testament.  B had a fun time reading it on his own and comparing it to what he has learned from his Bible.

My thoughts-  I thought this was a wonderful Bible for babies and toddlers.  It was similar to a small Bible when I was younger.  I think this Bible would be a perfect baby gift and it could be used as the child gets older.  I do think the word, “Baby’s,” could be removed though, so it could be focused on toddlers as well.

Kristina Stephenson did a wonderful job with the illustrations.  They supplemented the text and were very simple for babies and young children.

I highly recommend this Bible to parents or anybody who has a little one to buy for. 

What B (boy, almost eight, second grade) Liked and Disliked:

Baby’s Little Bible was a good Bible.  They forgot parts in some of the stories.  I didn’t really like that.  They did not include the snake for Adam and Eve.  I liked the illustrations.  They were very good.  I also liked the stories.  They were good too. 

I think this book is good for kids my age to read to themselves.  And  I also think this book is good for babies.

What C (girl, Nov 11 was age 6, kindergarten) Liked and Disliked:

I like the book.  I liked when Jesus was born.  There were a lot of good stories in Baby’s Little Bible.  I liked all the illustrations.

I would recommend this for your kids.

 

Dad Says-

I found this book to be a good way to introduce the more well-known characters and stories of the Bible to our little ones.  While it is general in nature, its good for our children to hear us telling the stories of the Bible.  It’s as much about the stories as it is us spending time with our kids. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Baby’s Little Bible by Sarah Toulmin and illustrated by Kristina Stephenson for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Christ-Centered Christmas by Hal & Melanie Young

 

Published by- Great Waters Press

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 80

Age Group- Families

Description of Book- e-book, download price $15 but now as a new release it is $6

 

Christmas will be here before you know it.  Christ-Centered Christmas by Hal and Melanie Young  help you to bring Christmas back to something simpler.

Inside you will find:

• Carols- with links to the music
• Christmas crafts
• Christmas traditions you can make your own
• Many Christmas recipes
• Ideas for meaningful Christmas presents   

About the Authors- Hal and Melanie Young live in North Carolina with their eight children who have always been homeschooled.  Hal has published many articles in homeschooling magazines and is also a consulting engineer.  Melanie is a full time mom and serves as information director for Johnston Country Home Educators and board-certified lactation consultant.

My Thoughts- Hal and Melanie Young have written and shared a meaningful e-book for Christmas.  I know I am going to be printing this e-book, so I can put it in with our Christmas books for years to come.

I love cooking, so I would have to say that was my favorite part of the e-book.  I got so hungry while reading and seeing the pictures of the Christmas recipes.  I am planning on making Granny’s Fruitcake and Orange Juice Balls with my children.  And if we have time I would like to make more to take to people for presents.

I enjoyed seeing the large selection of traditional Christmas carols.  The kids and I have decided that we’re going to learn some of these  songs for school and sing them for friends and family.

I highly recommend this book to everyone who want to celebrate a traditional Christmas.  This e-book will guide you in the best way to have a Christmas centered on Christ.  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received Christ-Centered Christmas for free from Hal and Melanie Young.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Problems in Plymouth by Marianne Hering and Marshal Younger

Problems in Plymouth by Marianne Hering and Marshall Younger, Book 6 in the Imagination Station Series

Genre: Juvenile Fiction/Readers/Chapter Books

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers

Website to Visit: The Imagination Station

Age Appeal: 7 and up

Important Information: Paperback book, ISBN 978-1-58997-632-0, Copyright 2011, 117 pages

Price: $4.99

In this sixth book, eight-year-old cousins, Beth and Patrick, are at the Plymouth Colony in the year 1621.  Hugh, from the 1400’s, arrived there shortly before they have and Patrick and Beth are immediately worried about what trouble he could cause.  Squanto is captured and three Native Americans are injured, did Hugh cause these problems?  Beth and Patrick need to find Hugh and stop him before the Pilgrims and Native Americans go to war.

Will they succeed and finally get Hugh back to his home in 1450 England?   

Authors:

Marianne Hering has written more than 12 children’s book and is the former editor of Focus on the Family magazine. She lives in Colorado with her husband and children.

Marshal Younger has written over 100 episodes for the radio program, Adventures in Odyssey.  He is a freelance writer and lives in Tennessee with his wife and four children.

Illustrator: 

David Hohn lives in Portland, Oregon where he works in his studio on many different projects.

Our Experience:

B and C were very excited to receive Problems in Plymouth.  One of the favorite things the kids and I like to do together is read. This was one of the books we couldn’t put down.  The kids wanted to read it for our school time reading and our nighttime reading.

My Thoughts:

I thought this book was fun to read to the kids.  We spent some of our school days and some nights reading this book.  B didn’t want to read this book himself until we read it together.  I think he wanted to have the enjoyment of being surprised along with us.   I know this was a work of fiction, but I have never seen the Pilgrims portrayed as such kind and Christian people before.  I was very glad to see this portrayal. 

The only part of this book that I was not sure about was the illustration of the Native American village with teepees instead of wigwams.  I thought it was primarily just the Native Americans who lived on the plains that used teepees.

What B (boy, age seven, second grade) Liked and Disliked:

I liked everything about the book, except for Hugh.  Hugh is mean.  Beth and Patrick went to Plymouth in the Imagination Station.  In the end Hugh went back to his proper time in England. 

I think this book is good for kids my age to read to themselves or to have someone read to them.

What C (girl, age five, kindergarten) Liked and Disliked:

I liked it.  They didn’t fight very much.  Mr. Whittaker could not go into the Imagination Station, because Hugh had the ring.  I think Hugh was an old man.  Beth and Patrick got the ring back from Hugh. 

I liked everything.  It is good for kids my age.

Would I Recommend?:

I would highly recommend Problems in Plymouth. It should be in every public and school library.

Disclaimer:

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

Showdown with the Shepherd by Marianne Hering and Brock Eastman

Showdown with the Shepherd by Marianne Hering and Brock Eastman, Book 5 in the Imagination Station Series

Genre: Juvenile Fiction/Readers/Chapter Books

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers

Website to Visit: The Imagination Station

Age Appeal: 7 and up

Important Information: Paperback book, ISBN 978-1-58997-631-3, Copyright 2011, 117 pages

Price: $4.99

Mr. Whittaker has sent Beth and Patrick in the Imagination Station to the time of David and Goliath to find Hugh.  They need to get the Whittaker family ring and send Hugh back to his time. 

The kids will face an angry bear and Philistines and disgruntled Israelites.  Will they succeed and finally get Hugh back to his home in 1450 England?

Authors:

Marianne Hering has written more than 12 children’s book and is the former editor of Focus on the Family magazine.  She lives in Colorado with her husband and children.

Brock Eastman is Product Marketing Manager at Focus on the Family.  He enjoys writing, but he focuses even more on his family.  They live in Colorado, but enjoy visiting the Midwest during harvest.

Illustrator:

David Hohn lives in Portland, Oregon where he works in his studio on many different projects.

Our Experience:

B and C were very excited to receive Showdown with the Shepherd. One of the favorite things the kids and I like to do together is read.  It didn’t take us too many nights to finish this book.  The kids just wanted to keep reading and then we had to read it a second time.

My Thoughts:

I am always intrigued when authors have people go back in time and associate with people in living during that time.  The authors did an excellent job of melding Beth and Patrick into David’s life and the war between the Israelites and Philistines.

Huge was a very addition to this storyline.  He sure knows how to cause a lot of trouble.  I think that the addition of Hugh along with King Saul and his army with their lack of faith helped B and C how faith in God is truly important. 

What B (boy, age seven, second grade in the fall) Liked and Disliked:

I liked Showdown with the Shepherd.  This story is in the Bible!  My favorite part was when David killed Goliath, none of the other Israelites would do it, because they had no faith in God.  The part I didn’t like was when Hugh made the catapult and sent burning tar covered rocks. 

I think this book is good for kids my age to read to themselves or to have someone read to them.

What C (girl, age five, kindergarten) Liked and Disliked:

I liked the part when Goliath, because the Israelites won. 

I didn’t like the catapult, because they threw the rocks right towards the Israelites camp.  The second time they had loaded a boulder the knots had slipped.  I also didn’t like the part with the bear, because it was rushing right at Beth and Patrick.

It is good for kids my age, except for the scary parts. 

Would I Recommend?:

I would highly recommend Showdown with the Shepherd.  I am going to tell my family, friends and librarians about this book and the rest in the series.  I hope these books will also be audio books.

Disclaimer:

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

The Three Trees by Elena Pasquali and Illustrated by Sophie Windham

Genre- Fiction/Christian/Christmas/Easter

The Three Tree: A Traditional Folktale by Elena Pasquali and Illustrated by Sophie Windham

Published by- Lion Children’s Books

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 32

Age Group- Young Children

Description of book- hardback, list price $14.99, ISBN 978-0-7459-6289-4

On a hill sit three trees.  They dream of become a royal throne, strong ship, and a tall strong tree.  They are cut down and their dreams seemed to come to an end.  Each tree is made into something special; a manger, fishing boat, and a rugged cross.  They have each had an important role to play.

Excerpt from the Book.

About the Author- Elena Pasquali has worked in children’s publishing and has enjoyed researching folk tales.  She enjoys learning different languages and cultures.  She grew up in South Wales.

About the Illustrator- Sophie Windham lives in Herefordshire with her husband, children, and many animals.  She was shortlisted for the Kate Greenway Medal and has illustrated many picture books.

My thoughts-

This is a remarkable book that we can use to celebrate all Christian seasons.  The folktale is wonderful and I could study the illustrations all day.

My kids really enjoyed reading this book.  It came in the mail when our supervising teacher was here and B took it right away and read it to her.  They both enjoyed the experience.

B, C, Dad and I enjoyed it again later as our bedtime story.  I plan on reading this story to my children for Christmas and Easter every single year.  And I will be saving this book for my grandchildren.

 What B (boy, age seven, second grade) Liked and Disliked:

I liked The Three Trees.  It was a good book.  My favorite part was when the first tree was made into a manger and when Jesus was put into it.  My second favorite part was when the second tree was made into a boat and it held Jesus.  My third favorite part was rather sad. It was when the third tree was made into a cross and Jesus died on that cross.  There were good illustrations. In one of the pictures there was even a rainbow.  There was even a picture of a boat in the book.  My favorite picture was when the innkeeper was putting hay into the manger and there were animals all around.

I think this book is good for kids my age.  I think younger kids would like it too.

What C (girl, age five, kindergarten) Liked and Disliked:

I liked the first picture of the trees.

There is a cat in one of the pictures.  I loved everything, but one part, when Jesus died on the cross. Joseph and Mary had baby Jesus.  The fisherman caught a lot of fish when they went out to fish.  Jesus came back to life.

It is good for kids my age and younger, like my two-year-old cousin.

Dad Says-

I enjoyed The Three Trees for several reasons.  That it's ok to dream; that it's ok to dream big; when things don't go as planned don't give up; patience is a necessity; God has the ability to fulfill your dreams according to His plan.  This is a book that can remind us and our children throughout the year to keep our hearts and thoughts on God while He lights the path before us.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Three Trees by Elena Pasquali and illustrated by Sophie Windham for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Genre- Christian Fiction/Vietnam War/Journalism

Yesterday’s Tomorrow by Catherine West

Published by- OakTara Publishing

Published- March 2011

Number of pages- 336

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, list price $18.95, ISBN-13: 978-1-60290-278-7

Blurb from the Author: 

Vietnam, 1967.

Independent, career-driven journalist Kristin Taylor wants two things: to honor her father's memory by becoming an award-winning overseas correspondent and to keep tabs on her only brother, Teddy, who signed up for the war against their mother's wishes. Brilliant photographer Luke Maddox, silent and brooding, exudes mystery. Kristin is convinced he's hiding something. 

Willing to risk it all for what they believe in, Kristin and Luke engage in their own tumultuous battle until, in an unexpected twist, they’re forced to work together. Ambushed by love, they must decide whether or not to set aside their own private agendas for the hope of tomorrow that has captured their hearts.

 

 

About the Author-

 

A member of Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers, Catherine West, has studied in Bermuda, England and Canada.  She has an English degree from the University of Toronto.  She lives with her husband in Bermuda with her children and Border Collie.  She enjoys working on her next novel, walking, and caring for her roses.  Her next novel, Hidden in the Heart, will be available soon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can reach her at:

• Website: http://www.catherinejwest.com
• Blog: http://www.catherinewestblog.blogspot.com

My thoughts- I have had teachers who served in the Vietnam War and I have read books about the war, but this book made me feel as if I was in Vietnam living with Kristin and Luke.  I laughed with them, cried with them, and felt their fears.

After Kristin returned to the states she suffered from PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).  This helped me realize what one of the latest families (husband served in Afghanistan) has been going through.

Catherine West did a tremendous writing Yesterday’s Tomorrow.  I highly recommend this book.  This book is for everyone and has danger, romance and heartbreak.  I want people to learn more about the Vietnam War and what the people went through.

I am going to tell my friends, family and librarians about this book. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Yesterday’s Tomorrow by Catherine West for free from the author as a pdf. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. All links were current when posted.

C’s Blogging- Night, Dark, Scary

It’s scary in the dark.  Although I like it in the dark. 

“Momma do you like it in the dark?”

“I like it in the dark.”

Momma and C are in the dark together. 

“Do you like it in the dark?”

“I love, love, love it in the dark.”

Refuge on Crescent Hill by Melanie Dobson

Genre- Fiction/Christian/Suspense

Refuge on Crescent Hill by Melanie Dobson

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2010

Number of pages- 272

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, list price $13.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-2590-5

Camden has lost her freelance jobs and her savings in New York City and has decided to visit her grandmother in Ohio.

When she arrives in Camden, her grandmother has recently passed away and given her the old family home.  The home is going to take more money to improve than Camden has, which is nothing.

Camden tries to sell the house and some buyers surface, but their intentions for the house are not necessarily  what she wants.  And the more time Camden stays, the more she learns about the town’s past, her past and those she meets, which helps to solve mysteries that surface.

Read an excerpt here.

About the Author-  Melanie Dobson lives with her family in Oregon.  She has worked in journalism and publicity for many years.  One of the places she worked was at Focus on the Family.  She has also written The Black Cloister and Together for Good.

My thoughts-

I enjoy a good mystery especially when Christianity, history, and a good plot are involved the novel becomes even better.

When I received this book in the mail, I just had to open the package and start reading right away.  I reluctantly had to put it down as I needed to fix our lunch.  It wasn’t until after the kids went to bed that I was able to read the book.  Needless to say it was a very late night.  :)

Melanie Dobson has woven a story I think will be a classic.  There were so many exciting events:  people I thought were innocent were not and vice versa, Camden gained family members she didn’t know she had; and how her grandmother protected women who were in abusive relationships.

I highly recommend Refuge on Crescent Hill.  It has something for everyone: mystery, American history, and romance.  I will be sharing this title with my local librarians.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Refuge on Crescent Hill by Melanie Dobson for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Playing Hurt by Brian Goins

Genre- Love & Marriage / Men

Playing Hurt: A Guy’s Strategy for a Winning Marriage by Brian Goins

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 152

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, list price $11.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-2673-5

Do you like reading books with a sports theme?  Do you want to know the best game plan for a successful marriage?  Then this is the book to read.

Brian Goins has combined scripture, his own experiences and that of others to give any man a playbook for a successful marriage.

Keeping in mind that a marriage is too important to end, this book will teach you how to play through the pain, like many pros do to finish the game and win.

Click here for Excerpt

About the Author- Brian Goins lives with his wife and three children in North Carolina where he is a lead pastor for Renaissance Bible Church.  He also speaks at Family Life’s Weekend to Remember conferences with his wife.

 My thoughts-

This was an awesome book.  Brian Goins was very wise to relate his book to sports.  Many men relate well to sports and to explain marriage in that context, was pure genius.

The questions at the end of each chapter help the reader become more involved with the information in each chapter.  “Paul’s Playbook for Playing Hurt,” which is also at the end of each chapter lists key tactics for a man to have a winning marriage.  One play is, “Every man needs the guts to love like Christ.”  A husband can take these plays and use them every day of his marriage.

I would highly recommend this book to all men who are thinking of getting married or are married.  I am planning on purchasing this for the single men I know.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Playing Hurt: A Guy’s Strategy for a Winning Marriage by Brian Goins for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Unveiling the Kings of Israel by David Down

Genre- Religion/Biblical Studies/History & Culture | History/Ancient Egypt

Unveiling the Kings of Israel by Down

Published by- Master Books, A Division of New Leaf Publishing Group

Copyrighted- July 2011

Number of pages- 170

Age Group- All ages

Description of book- hardback book, list price $29.99, ISBN: 0-89051-609-6

Is the Bible true?  Is there archeological proof?

Unveiling the Kings of Israel shows archeological and Biblical proof of the Biblical kings like; David, Solomon and more.  Each chapter is filled with photos, artwork, Biblical quotes, and archeological proof from other countries.

Learn more about how Egypt and Israel chronology needs to be adjusted up to 600 years to match Bible chronology.  What will you believe, Bible chronology or current archeological chronology?

About the Author- David Down is the editor of “Archeological Diggings.”  For over 40 years he has been a field archeologist and excavates regularly in Israel.

My thoughts-

I was excited to review this book.  I am always interested in discovering how Bible and archeology chronologies match and the proof that I can either show or tell people when I want to help people believe in the Bible. 

The most interesting part of this book is the idea that chronologies of Egypt and Israel are off.  Up to 600 years!  If those times periods are adjusted to the Bible chronology then everything lines up perfectly and the Bible is proven as fact.  This book doesn’t describe how the chronologies have been determined so it would be helpful to add that information in future editions.

There is a modern map at the beginning of the book, but more historical maps would add a lot.  I would really like to see more maps of the lands of each of the kings discussed.

Would I recommend?  Yes!  I think that anybody who desires to learn about the archeological proof of the Bible should read this book.  Teachers/parents should add it to their history curriculum.

And all the photos are great too!!

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Unveiling the Kings of Israel by David Down for free from Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

SAT & College Preparation Course for the Christian Student by James P. Stobaugh

Genre- Education/Study Skills & Education/Higher

SAT & College Preparation Course for the Christian Student by James P. Stobaugh

Published by- Master Books, A Division of New Leaf Publishing Group

Copyrighted- June 2011

Number of pages- 425

Age Group- High School

Description of book- Paperback book, list price $29.99, ISBN: 978-0-89051-624-9

Extras- SAT Essay Workbook download here

High school is one of the busiest and most important times in a person’s life.  This book is designed to be integrated into a student’s busy life for their first three years.

Short lessons, containing a devotional, reading lesson, plus a few practice questions,  Monday through Friday for the first three years is all it will take to help improve scores on the SAT.  The back of the book has book lists, scriptures for the devotional and fifty sample essays.

Excerpt from the Book!

About the Author- James P. Stobaugh and his wife have homeschooled their four children.  He is well known in homeschooling and college/SAT preparation.  He has a degree from Vanderbilt and Rutgers universities, and Princeton and Gordon-Conwell seminaries.

My thoughts- I thought this SAT prep. book was well laid out, but it is not for the faint of heart.  This book will take the user quite a bit of time beginning in their freshman high school career, but I feel utilizing this program will help improve scores and their relationship with God.

There were two parts about this book that didn’t sit well with me: the quality of the essays and the lack of a practice test.  If I were in the admissions department of a college I would not have accepted most of the essays as they were poorly written and rather boring.  A practice test would help the student know exactly what to expect. 

I recommend this book for students to strengthen their academics and their relationships with God.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received SAT & College Preparation Course for the Christian Student by James P. Stobaugh for free from Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Family Illustrated Bible by Sally Tagholm

Genre- Children/Nonfiction

The Family Illustrated Bible retold by Sally Tagholm and Reference spreads by Peter Chrisp

Published by- New Leaf Press, A Division of New Leaf Publishing Group

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 356

Age Group- Elementary School Children

Description of book- hardback picture book, list price $24.99, ISBN-13:978-0-89221-704-5

Do your children enjoy reading and learning stories from the Bible?  This book will give your family hours of enjoyment and years of  learning.

Formerly known as The Children’s Bible, The Family Illustrated Bible has stories retold by Sally Tagholm with many beautiful illustrations and photographs.  Peter Chrisp did the reference spreads, which give valuable historical information on topics such as Mesopotamia, the Assyrians, and King Herod.

About the Author- Sally Tagholm has written numerous children's books on history and animals.

What C (girl, age 5, Kindergarten) thought- I liked this Bible. I liked the stories of “Moses in the Bulrushes” and “The Golden Calf.”  I liked the illustrations, especially of Samson and the lion.

Kids my age would like this book. 

What B (boy, age 7, second grade) thought- I like the front cover with Noah and the ark.  Flowers and an elephant are in the background.  My two favorite stories are, “The Good Samaritan” and “The Unmerciful Servant.”  I like the reference section called, “Exile and Return,” in 597 BC when King Nebuchadnezzar II captured Jerusalem.

I thought the whole book was very great.  It would be good for kids my age to read to themselves.  

My thoughts- I thought this story Bible was great!  The stories were well written and as a family we learned a lot of historical information from the reference spreads.  The map at the beginning of the Bible was nice too.  It is always nice to be able to find the cities that are discussed in the Bible.

I would highly recommend this story Bible to all families who have young children and want teach them Bible stories.

Dad’s Thoughts- I like the illustrations.  The information was detailed, but not enough to overwhelm you. The maps and pictures help to show that these are real places, instead of just reading about it, you can see where the events occurred.  Overall it is a good buy.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Family Illustrated Bible, retold by Sally Tagholm, for free from New Leaf Press, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The World-Tilting Gospel by Dan Phillips

Genre- Christian Life/Social Issues

The World-Tilting Gospel by Dan Phillips

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 304

Age Group- Older Teen/Adult

Description of book- paperback, list price $17.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-3908-7

Dan Phillips has spent many years studying Hebrew and Greek Bibles to bring you this book to help you understand how you can become a “world-tilting believer.”  He lead you on a whole study of the Bible to show you where we, as a people, have been, where we are, and where we are going as a world. 

Filled with humor, serious and scripture, you will want to have your Bible handy as you read The World Tilting Gospel.

About the Author- Dan Phillips lives with his wife, four children and a variety of cats.  He writes for the Pyromaniacs blog and his own blog, Biblical Christianity.  He has been a teacher, pastor, seminar speaker, radio talk show host, and newspaper columnist.  He has studied Hebrew and Greek since the 1970, which was important for the writing of this book.

My thoughts-

I was very intrigued when I had a chance to review this book.  The phrase, “embracing a Biblical worldview & hanging on tight,” from the cover of the book had so much potential.  Dan Phillips was able to deliver on showing us how to accept and accomplish the challenge of that phrase. 

Part One had a lot of humor (mixed in with seriousness of the Fall) to make it a quick easy read.  Once I started Part Two he really became serious, which showed me how important it is to him for us to properly approach the world and view Christ and the Bible as Christians.

I thought the summaries of each section were very important and relevant because the information was condensed and showed what was most important to him.

I thought this was an excellent, thought provoking book and I would recommend it to everyone who wants a different way of viewing life that just might make them a “world-tilting believer.”

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The World-Tilting Gospel by Dan Phillips for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Story of Noah’s Ark by Lori C. Froeb

Genre- Children

The Story of Noah’s Ark by Lori C. Froeb and illustrated by Luana Rinaldo

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 16

Age Group-  Young Children

Description of book- paperback, list price $9.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-5552-0

 

Do your children enjoy the Noah’s ark story from the Bible?  This deluxe set, written by Lori C. Froeb and illustrated by Luana Rinaldo, has the storybook and wall clings that your children can put on the wall and create all sorts scenes of the animals and Noah’s ark.

About the Author- Lori C. Froeb lives in New York.  She is a children’s book editor and has written many children’s books.  It was a blessing to her to write this book.

About the Illustrator- Luana Rinaldo has written and illustrated many books for children and babies.  The books have been translated into more than 14 languages.  She lives Zurich, Switzerland.

What B (age 7, second grade) Thought- I like the story about Noah’s ark, but they forgot to put in Noah’s sons and their wives.  There were wall clings, those were really fun.  They were really fun, because we made a neat scene with them.  Noah built a big ark to hold every kind of animal, two of every kind (one female and one male). 

There were good illustrations.  There were snakes, dogs, giraffes, pigs, turtles, monkeys and many more animals that I really enjoy.

I think this book is good for kids my age.

What C (age 5, kindergarten) Thought- I like the book.  I think it was fun to have it read to me.  My favorite part was the rainbow and the animals were safe inside Noah’s ark.  Slowly the water began to evaporate and Noah sent out the dove to find dry land.  And the sun slowly began to come out.  And the rainbow began to come out as a sign that God would never flood the earth again. 

I like the wall clings.  It was fun putting them on the wall, instead of on the window or door. 

I think it would be good for kids my age.

My thoughts-

My kids love Noah and the ark and wall clings, so this book was perfect for them.  I read the book different times to them and B enjoyed reading it to C.  After they put the wall clings on the wall, they looked at the illustrations to see what animals they had put on the wall.

I thought this book was cute and well written.  I really enjoyed studying the illustrations on each page.  The wall clings looked spectacular on our wall.  I did remember to put them on one of the smooth walls in our house, because we stuck wall clings on our bumpy walls once and they did not stick. 

I wondered why Noah’s sons and wives were not included.  When I read the story of Noah’s ark, I like having all the characters and the rest of the complete story.

I highly recommend this story, because all kids should know the story of Noah’s ark and the wall clings make it even more fun.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Story of Noah’s Ark by Lori C. Froeb and illustrated by Luana Rinaldo for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Liberating Truth by Danielle Strickland

Genre- Nonfiction

The Liberating Truth: How Jesus Empowers Women by Danielle Strickland

Published by- Monarch Books

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 160

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, list price $12.99, ISBN 978-0-85721-019-7

Is the church helping woman and children and supporting them when they experience violence?  Are we as a society doing enough to protect women and girls?

The Liberating Truth shows through stories told to the author how women have still not been liberated and Jesus would want them to be.  Reading this book will show you how the Bible has been misinterpreted, how much time Jesus spent and said about women, and how society can help women.

Excerpt from the book!

About the Author- Danielle Strickland and her husband are officers in The Salvation Army in Canada.  They have two young children.

 

 

 

 

My thoughts-

I thought this book gave a tall order to fill, to change how women and girls are treated around the world.

I did agree with Danielle Strickland that politics, denominations, and hearts need to be changed about the way women are treated, but I don’t share her more liberal views of marriage, like that the person who knows more about the subject should make the final decision. 

In a marriage I believe that the husband should always have the final say if an agreement can’t be made.  I also believe that once there are children in a marriage, the wife needs to stay home while the kids are young, to give them the best start in life.  Today the wife can always have a job on the internet if the family needs money.

I would recommend this book to all who want to learn what Jesus thought about women and girls and how we should treat them as Christians.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Liberating Truth by Danielle Strickland for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

From the Garden to the City by John Dyer

Genre- Christian Life/Social Services

From the Garden to the City: The Redeeming and Corrupting Power of Technology by John Dyer

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 192

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, list price $13.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-2668-1

Is technology good or bad?  What role does technology play in the Bible?  These questions and more will be answered by John Dyer

In From the Garden to the City, John Dyer has used Bible verses and quotes from experts in their fields.  You will learn from this text how we need to use the technology for God, so it doesn’t enslave us.

John Dyer has both personal and professional experience with technology as the director of Web Development at Dallas Theological Seminary.  He has published articles in Collide Magazine and Christianity Today.  John Dyer also has a blog called, donteatthefruit.com.  This is his first book.

Excerpt from the book!

 

John Dyer

My thoughts-

I have really enjoyed reading this book.  I have several blogs, cell phone and a television in the house.  My husband and children also enjoy the technology we have, so as a family we need to notice how technology affects our relationship to God.

I have learned a lot from this book about how God has always provided us technology.  Some of that technology has given clothing for Adam and Eve, knowledge for building the ark, and tools for making Jesus’ cross.

My favorite part of the book is the last chapter, “Recommendations,” where I learned the five steps on how to best use technology.

• Valuation- Use Scripture to evaluate technology and ourselves to find the strengths and weaknesses
• Experimentation- Try using or not using different kinds of technology
• Limitation- Know our boundaries with technology, so we can still live our Christian values and lives
• Togetherness- Make sure we make time to see others face to face without technology
• Cultivation- Help those who work with technology to do it for Christianity

I would highly recommend From the Garden to the City to everyone so we can learn to view technology from God’s point of view, through scripture, and apply it in our lives.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received From the Garden to the City by John Dyer for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.