The Lion Comic Book Hero Bible by Siku, Richard Thomas, and Jeff Anderson (Book Review!)

The Lion Comic Book Hero Bible

By Siku Richard Thomas & Jeff Anderson

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian / Graphic Novel / Comic

Published by- Lion Hudson

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 192

Age Group- Older Juvenile

Description of book- hardback, listed price- $19.95, ISBN 978-0-7459-5617-6

This book tells the stories of many of the men and women of the Bible.  These people weren’t perfect, but they weren’t ordinary either.  Think about David, Jesus, and Peter.

This book tells their stories and those of many others.  The authors have given each of these people a unique name.  Ruth is called Fierce Friend.  Deborah is the Iron Maiden.

There are strong illustrations and text to go with these characters.

About the Authors-

Jeff Anderson has worked for Marvel on Transformers and Judge Dredd as a graphic novel artist.  He has also worked on Angouleme Prize-winning Graphic Bible.

Siku is an innovative artist, designer, and writer.  He has created the Manga Bible and Manga Jesus.

Richard Thomas is also an artist, designer, and writer.  He has worked on Rydlers Fayre, SU Comics, and UNESCO Comic Books.

My thoughts-

I thought the illustrations were interesting.  Personally I don’t like animae, but this wasn’t that style.  I liked these illustrations, because they looked more like real people.  I did think that some of these illustrations might scare younger readers, so parent or grandparent should look at this book before letting a younger person read it.  I would say to check for those under ten.  I found the illustrations of the warrior, like on page 46, to be the scariest.

There were many different Bible stories in this 192 page book.  The last page of the book included a list of all the stories and where they could be found in a Bible.  The authors included many stories, which aren’t in a typical Bible story type book.

They did a good job picking the different heroes of the Bible.  They picked heros like Ruth, Daniel, Hannah, and David.  They also gave them superhero names like Fierce Friend, Rainman, and The Son.

I thought this was good.  I would recommend it to others.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Lion Comic Book Hero Bible, by Siku, Richard Thomas, and Jeff Anderson, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Picture of the Week! (December 31, 2015)- Time to Declutter

This is a picture from a couple years ago when we were working on decluttering the house.  I looked in the drawer that this stuff came from the other day.  I am happy to say that it looks pretty decluttered!  I think I will take everything out later today and take a photo, so I can compare. 

Have a wonderful New Year!

Picture of the Week! (December 26, 2015)- Our New Legos!!

We have had a rough past week with one of our dogs, but we had fun opening a tote of Legos and seeing what there was.  There were all these people and we have been finding more.

Have a wonderful week.

God's Unwelcome Recovery by Dr. Sean Oliver Dee (Book Review!)

God’s Unwelcome Recovery: Why the New Establishment Wants to Proclaim the Death of Faith

By Dr. Sean Oliver-Dee

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian

Published by- Monarch Books (Lion Hudson)

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 191

Age Group- Adult 

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-85721-630-4

There is a difference between the official numbers of church attendance from the church and from the government and media.  Why is that?  Dr. Oliver-Dee says that the “new establishment” wants to ignore the views of of Christians and that the death of faith will be caused by the progress of science.
About the Author-
Dr. Sean Oliver-Dee currently works as a Interreligious Advisor for his local Anglican diocese.  He is a religious affairs consultant to different organizations.
My thoughts-
I thought this was an interesting book.  I live in the United States, so the statistics from the UK didn’t apply to me.  The thoughts behind the statistics and the statistics from the U.S. did apply to me.  We need to be aware of what the media is saying compared to what is really happening with the Christian churches.  In Britain it seems as if Christianity isn’t as popular as it was in the past, but it is not true.
To me it seemed like chapter 8 was really the beginning of the book.  I know the reader needed to know all of the different statistics that are out there, but I found the most useful chapters were at the end.  That is probably because they were the most practical ones.  They discussed how to change the perceptions that are out there.
I would recommend this book to anyone in any country.  We need to know what is truly happening to Christian statistics throughout the world.
Disclosure of Material Connection- I received God’s Unwelcome Recovery, by Dr. Sean Oliver-Dee, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Picture of the Week! (December 17, 2015)- Springtime Tulips

We have been having spring in our neck of the woods this December.  I’m surprised that our flowers have not started blooming.

The Abbess of Whitby by Jill Dalladay (Book Review!)

The Abbess of Whitby

By Jill Dalladay

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 252

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN: 978-1-78264-154-4

Hild is a woman, who over the course of her lifetime, has the chance to help change her world.

When she is young, she is to serve as a maid to the goddess Eostre for a year.  As time changes she learns of God from her queen’s priest.  Throughout her life she goes from one situation to another with the old world clashing with the new world of God.

When she is older and her husband has passed away, she is able to become a Christian and help build communities for God.  She is even entrusted with her old enemy’s child.

This book has an “Author’s Note,” maps, family tree, and a list of characters.

About the Author-
Jill Dalladay currently lives in Whitby.  She is a former head teacher, classicist, and historian.

My Thoughts-  I thought this was a great informational book.  I like reading historical fiction, because I can learn about the time period and the lives of the people. 

There were many things I liked about this book, but there was one main thing I would change.  I would have changed the list of the characters at the beginning.  I appreciated it, but it was still confusing.  Perhaps it was because I didn't know what all of the positions were like, thegns.  Perhaps a brief history of each family group would have helped.

I really appreciated the different maps and the family tree.  All the extras always help me learn more about what I'm reading.  The other extra of the book that was great was the "Author's Note."  I always wish that the "Author's Note" could be in the front of the book.  I would like to be able to learn more about the background of the novel before reading it.
Hild's life certainly had its ups and downs, but I thought it was great how she was able to become a Christian and help those around her.  She is certainly to be admired.  She knew what she believed and didn't let those around her stop her.  Jill Dalladay did an excellent job of portraying her.

I highly recommend this book.  This book would be perfect as a living book for someone in high school who wants to learn more about seventh-century Britain. 




Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Abbess of Whitby, by Jill Dalladay, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Picture of the Week! (December 8, 2015)- Multiplication

There is nothing more fun than working on your math problems and wearing your elephant hat.

Picture of the Week! (December 5, 2015)- Amphibians

This past September we went for a hike at our local outdoor learning center.  There we found lots of these amphibians. 

The Midnight Visitors by Juliet David and illustrated by Jo Parry

The Midnight Visitors

By Juliet David

Illustrated by Jo Parry

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Christian / Juvenile / Christmas

Published by- Candle Books

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 32

Age Group- Young children

Description of book- hardback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-78128-233-5

In this Christmas Story, Mariam the cow is getting ready to sleep for the night.  When suddenly there is a knock at her door.  She is visited by a family of rabbits, a fox, and two humans.  A baby is born, then the shepherds arrive.

Who is the baby?  Will more animals and humans arrive?

About the Author-

Juliet David lives in London with her family. She has written Bible activity books and children’s stories. She enjoys traveling to Israel and other Bible lands.

About the Illustrator-

Jo Parry lives in Bournemouth, England.  She uses an Apple Mac to illustrate greeting cards, fine art, and children’s books.  She is fulfilling her life-long dreams.

My thoughts-

This was a delightful book.  My daughter and I read it together.  We had fun learning about Miriam and exploring the illustrations. 

I always enjoy Jo Parry’s illustrations, and this book was no different.  There are some illustrations I’m not sure about.  I wasn’t sure why there were butterflies and trees that were opaque.

I know there are many different Christmas stories with animals, but this one was different.  I liked the domesticated cow, Mariam, with the wild animals.  It was nice, because she and her cowshed were able to protect different animals and people.

I think this book would be great for children.  Pick up your copy today!!

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Midnight Visitors, by Juliet David and illustrated by Jo Parry, 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 or those of my family. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Picture of the Week! (November 28, 2015)- Yellow Rose

 

I’m not sure if this is going to be a long winter or not, but I want to make sure I have some flowers to look at.

The Aleppo Code by Terry Brennan (Book Review!)

The Brotherhood Conspiracy

by Terry Brennan

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Suspense

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2013

Number of pages- 384

Age Group- Adult (Mainly for Men)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $15.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4389-3

In this third book, everything is coming to a close.  Tom Bohannon, his wife, and their friends are hunting for the final key so they can save the world from destruction.  They are being chased by members of the Prophet's Guard at every turn, whether they are in Israel or the ruins of Babylon.

Will the discovery of an ancient scriptural text help them solve the mystery?  Will they be able to stay ahead of the Prophet's Guard?  Or will they be harmed in the turmoil which is the Middle East?

About the Author-

Terry Brennan currently lives in the New York City area with his wife and family.  He has had a twenty-two year career in journalism and currently serves as chief administrative officer for Care for the Homeless.

My thoughts-

I thought there was a lot of great suspense and excitement in this book.

I have not read the first book in the series, but I read the second one, The Brotherhood Conspiracy.  While I suggest that you read the other books in the series first, you can still enjoy this one.  Brennan adds enough of the backstory, that you will know what is happening. 

There is a large cast of characters, but there is a large list of characters at the beginning of the book.  It listed each character and who they were.  I would have appreciated notes on whether each of the characters were in this book.  I was confused sometimes, when the characters were mentioned in the book.  There were also two handy maps.  They really helped me know how far apart the areas mentioned were.

There is a really good Author's Note at the end of the book.  It tells what is true in the story and what is not.  I liked learning about Sir General Charles Warren, the Bowery Mission, and the Demotic language.  There are website addresses mentioned, so you can learn more.

I think this is a good book.  I would recommend it to men and women alike.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Aleppo, by Terry Brennan, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Picture of the Week! (November 20, 2015)- Flowers

I decided to post this photo of flowers, because I needed something cheery to see.  We’re supposed to get 8 inches of snow tonight.  It won’t stick around for long, but I’ll make sure to take pictures to share with all of you.

Ishtar’s Odyssey: A Family Story for Advent by Arnold Ytreeide (Book Review!)

Ishtar’s Odyssey: A Family Story for Advent

by Arnold Ytreeide

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Religion / Holidays / Christmas & Advent

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 176

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $15.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4393-0

Ishtar’s Odyssey is a book that was specifically written to be read during the days of Advent.  In this book, Ishtar, a ten-year-old, who happens to be the son of a Persian wise man, sees a star, which wasn’t there before.  He is able to go with his father on a caravan ride across the desert to follow the star.  There are many dangers, and Ishtar needs to learn how to listen and follow instructions.  Along the way he becomes friends with Jotham, Bartholomew, and Tabitha.

This book has suggestions of different Persian foods to try, pronunciation guide, and ideas on how to make this a family tradition.  Each day your family will:

• light the candle.
• read the story.
• discuss the section talking about God and how it related to the story.

About the Author-

Arnold Ytreeide currently lives in Idaho with his wife.  He has written three other Advent stories: Jotham’s Journey, Bartholomew’s Passage, and Tabitha’s Travels.  He is the founder of Storyteller Productions.

My thoughts-

I thought this was an excellent book to use during Advent.

I liked how each day ended as a cliffhanger.  It will make everyone more excited for the next day.  I can imagine my children wanting to read more and looking forward to the next day.

I like the extra sections of the book.  I think a connection to food is important and an excellent way to relate to others.  I liked the lists, one containing Persian food and the other similar foods for us to try.  The pronunciation guide was very helpful.  There were some words I had not heard before.  Ytreeide also mention his own family’s traditions, which helped me decide what I wanted to do with mine. 

I learned a lot about the Persian culture while reading this book and I am looking forward sharing it with my family during this year’s Advent.  I recommend this book to you and your family.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Ishtar’s Odyssey, by Arnold Ytreeide, for free from 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Picture of the Week! (November 14, 2015)- Fall Leaves

We have some trees near our house that usually never turn.  Typically it freezes, then rains leaves.  This is the pile from 2014.  This year the leaves slightly turned, then fell off.

A Cup of Dust by Susie Finkbeiner (Book Review)

A Cup of Dust: A Novel of the Dust Bowl

by Susie Finkbeiner

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 318

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4388-6

In 1934, in Red River, Oklahoma, ten-year-old Pearl is experiencing what it is like to live during the Dust Bowl.    Pearl doesn’t understand what is happening during this time, but she does know that her family helps many people during this crisis, and her family loves her.

There are a lot of transient people around Red River at this time.  Eddie is one of those people.  He scares Pearl and begins to disrupt her family.  What is she to do?  What is her family going to do?

About the Author-

Susie Finkbeiner is currently from Michigan.  She is a blogger, stay-at-home mom, author, and speaker.

My thoughts-

I liked the cover.  There is a very light rainbow that speaks towards God’s promise in the storm of the dust bowl and life, which Pearl and her town desperately need.

Susie Finkbeiner did an excellent job with the description of the town and era.  She talked about the amount of dust, hobos, tent revivals, people moving west, and more.  She also showed all of the tension, poverty, and psychological problems that happened in the town.

I know Pastor Ezra Anderson and his wife, Mad Mabel, were secondary characters, but I would have liked to know a bit more about her.  She had such an interesting name, that I was intrigued.

Even though the main character is a ten-year-old girl, this is a book for adults only.  There are far too many adult themes, like prostitution and murder.

I liked the discussion questions.  I appreciated the afterword.  I now want to read The Grapes of Wrath and learn more about the Dust Bowl. 

I homeschool my children, so this book has given me ideas for resources for my children.  I might use this book when they are seniors in high school.

I recommend this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received A Cup of Dust, by Susie Finkbeiner, for free from 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

52 Original Wisdom Stories by Penelope Wilcock (Book Review!)

 

52 Original Wisdom Stories

Short lively pieces for the Christian year

By Penelope Wilcock

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian

Published by- Monarch Books

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 256

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $19.99, ISBN: 978-0-85721-602-1

52 Original Wisdom Stories is 52 short stories about a married couple, Sid and Rosie.  In this book we learn about their faith, hopes, and perspectives about God.

Each of these stories can be used on its own.  Topics included are:

• marriage.
• education.
• the beginning.
• death. 

About the Author-

Penelope Wilcock currently lives in England with her family.  She is a writer and is a former Methodist minister.  Her blog is Kindred of the Quiet Way.

My Thoughts-

I thought this book was inspiring.  I plan on keeping it on my bedside table, so I can read it weekly.

I liked that it was based on a married couple, Sid and Rosie.  Their stories and beliefs made it a lot more personal.  I thought they had interesting views, because Sid was Catholic and but was now Quaker, and Rosie went to many different churches of different beliefs.  It was Sid’s Catholic beliefs that were the strongest. 

My favorite week was 29, because it was about abiding joy.  I have been trying to declutter my life.  I have noticed more joy, since my house and life are cleaner.

I do not follow the church’s year, so it would have been helpful for me to know what week of the year it was.  I was able to guess for a lot of it, because the stories would hint at the right time of year.

I think this is a book that many people will enjoy.  I recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 52 Original Wisdom Stories, by Penelope Wilcock, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Picture of the Week! (November 5, 2015)- Spring Flowers

For all the thunder I hear tonight, it is going to be a long time until I see these flowers again.

Picture of the Week! (October 30, 2015)

I don’t know about all of you, but I am not looking forward to this.  I would like the temperatures to go back to the low 70’s with none of the no-see-ums.

99 Prayers for Children by Juliet David and illustrated by Elina Ellis (Book Review!)

99 Stories from the Bible

By Juliet David

Illustrated by Elina Ellis

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Nonfiction / Young Children

Published by- Candle Books

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 96

Age Group- Juvenile

Description of book- hardback, listed price- $9.99, ISBN 978-1-78128-191-8

 

This book is a companion to 99 Stories From the Bible.  It contains traditional and contemporary prayers.  It provides young children with a variety of ways to pray during different times of the day and year.

Link to my review of 99 Stories From the Bible.

About the Author-

Juliet David currently lives in London with her family.  She has written many Bible activity books and children’s stories.

My thoughts-

I thought 99 Prayers for Children was an excellent companion book to 99 Stories Bible.

I liked the table of contents, which had the prayers in different categories, like mealtimes and bedtime.  I appreciated the index of first lines, because it was easier to find a specific prayer that way instead of looking in the different sections.

The prayers were based on traditional prayers and Bible verses.  Some of them were from different authors like St. Patrick.

My daughter has a hard time thinking of a prayer to say.  This book is perfect for her, because she can pick a prayer that best fits the time of day or how she is feeling at that time.  I think it will help her become more confident when praying, so that when she is older she can say her own prayers.

I really liked the illustrations.  They were realistic and matched the prayer that was being said.  They will be able to help young children understand the meaning of the prayer and how it relates to them.

This book would be a great addition to a child’s book collection.  It would help them draw nearer to God.

I recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 99 Prayers for Children, by Juliet David and illustrated by Elina Ellis, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Hardest Thing to Do by Penelope Wilcock (Book Review!)

The Hardest Thing to Do

The Hawk and Dove Series, Book 4

By Penelope Wilcock

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- These editions are 2015

Number of pages- 256

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN: 978-1-78264-148-3

The Hardest Thing to Do begins one year after The Long Fall.  The new abbot has been chosen following the death of Father Peregrine.  Abbot John is faced with his first problem when Prior William comes needing refuge.  Several of the monks do not want the prior there, because of the way he treated Father Peregrine.  The monks decide to let Prior William stay there on a trial basis.  What will happen?  Will they all be able to forgive each other?

About the Author-

Penelope Wilcock currently lives in England with her family.  She is a writer and is a former Methodist minister.  Her blog is Kindred of the Quiet Way.

My Thoughts-

I thought this was a wonderful book about forgiveness and change.  This was a perfect book to learn about Abbot John and the way he was able to get Prior William involved in the monastery. 

I liked the characters in this book as much as I did in the other three books.  Since I recently read the other books, the characters were easy to remember.  If I hadn’t remembered them, there was a very complete list of characters at the beginning of this book to help me.

I liked how the chapters were divided by each day of Lent, but I wish they were a little more detailed than, “The Tenth Day.”  There were some things I wanted to look up, but I couldn’t remember which chapter they were in.

I really enjoyed this book.  I think everyone should read this book.

Here is my review of the other three books.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Hardest Thing to Do, by Penelope Wilcock, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Unlikely Rebel by Kelli Gotthardt (Book Review!)

Unlikely Rebel: A Church Girl’s Journey out of Shoulds and Shame

by Kelli Gotthardt

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian Life / Women’s Issues

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 160

Age Group- Adult (women)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $13.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4228-5

Women struggle with many different problems.  Kelli Gotthardt shows us in this book what it was like to look like life was all together, but be filled with self-doubt and shame.  She is a pastor’s wife, so it was even harder for her to live authentically, because people expected more from her.

She wrote this book to show us how there is freedom and love that God wants us to have.

About the Author-

Kelli Gotthard has a master’s degree in spiritual formation and lives in California.  She is an international speaker, pastor’s wife, and leadership consultant.

My thoughts-

I thought Kelli Gotthardt was courageous when she wrote this book about her hard times and insecurities.  I was captivated by her writing style and it made me want to keep reading.  I wanted to learn about her journey and how it might apply to mine, even though each person’s journey is different and unique. 

I’m glad that she mentioned that this book was written as a journal, that way I knew that she was writing this in the order that they happened.  This was mentioned in the introduction, which was one of the most important parts of the book, because it set the stage.  It showed how she went from being a “good girl” to being a rebel.  It also alerted me to the physical and mental issues she had to and has to deal with.

I liked the divisions of the sections, Leaning In, Letting Go, and Living Out.

I think this was a very interesting book, one because she is a woman and two, because she is the wife of a pastor.  I enjoyed it and I hope you do too.  You might learn something about yourself you didn’t know.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Unlikely Rebel, by Kelli Gotthardt, for free from 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Methuselah Project by Rick Barry (Book Review!)

The Methuselah Project

by Rick Barry

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Historical / Christian / Suspense

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 312

Age Group- Adult (men)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4387-9

Roger Green was shot down in Germany in 1943.  He was taken prisoner and was an unwilling participant of an experiment.  He has lived for seventy years as a prisoner, and the scientist who has taken care of him for all these years has passed away.  He hasn’t aged a bit and has no knowledge of what has really been happening in the world.  He has read lots of historical books.  He has also read the Bible, which has helped him all these years.  He wants to escape, but when he does the world is unrecognizable.  It is 2015.

Katherine Mueller has always lived in the modern world, so when they meet, she questions what he believes.  He is running from the group who has kept him hidden for all these years.  Katherine is part of the group who has hidden him and is now looking for him.

Will they be able to work together?  Will Katherine turn him in to her organization?  Will Roger be able to adjust to his new world?

About the Author-

Rick Barry currently lives in Indiana.  He is the director of church planting ministries at BIEM.  He speaks Russian and has written Gunner’s Run and Kiriath’s Quest.  He is on Facebook and Twitter.

My thoughts-

World War II is a subject that interests me, and this book was very interesting.  I think The Methuselah Project would make a perfect movie.  When I finished reading this book, I had to go find my husband and tell him all about it.  I could not believe how much I could remember and how I wished I could read more.

Dr. Kossler, the man who took care of Roger Green (POW), for all those years was intriguing.  I thought that he was intriguing, because although he did not tell Roger the truth about the end of World War II, (Roger thought WW II was still being fought) Dr. Kossler treated him very well.  Dr. Kossler brought him books to read, kept him company, and made sure Roger had what he needed.  He believed in the project.  Dr. Kossler’s new assistants did not believe in the Methuselah Project and did not treat Roger respectfully.

Katherine, even though she was a part of the group who was trying to capture him, had great integrity and knew when to stand up to the people in her organization, who were trying to kill Roger.

My favorite part of the book took place after Roger escaped from the house in Germany, made it to the United States, and was with Katherine.  It was fun going with them on their journey as they learned more about Roger’s past.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.  I recommend it to everyone, but especially men.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Methuselah Project, by Rick Barry, for free from 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Only with Blood by Therese Down (Book Review)

Only with Blood

By Therese Down

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 313

Age Group- Adult 

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-78264-135-3

Jack Flynn.  Caitlin Spillane.  Donal Kelly.

Their lives are about to connect in Only with Blood, by Therese Down.

Jack Flynn lives in Tipperary in the new Republic of Ireland.  He is a farmer, who is dying of tuberculosis, and he wants a wife who can give him a son.

Caitlin Spillane is a high school student who is going to be forced by her father to marry Jack.  She will do it, but at what cost to her?

Donal Kelly is an IRA activist, who has fallen in love with Caitlin.  He wants to save her from her circumstances.

What will happen in their lives?  How many people will be affected by their actions?

Read an excerpt.

About the Author-

Therese Down currently works as the Head of English in a High School in England.  She currently lives in Worcestershire and has been teaching English Literature and Language for over 20 years.

My thoughts-

Only with Blood was an interesting read. 

I liked learning more about Ireland in the 1940's, when there was a lot of political turmoil.  The historical aspect was interesting, but I was captivated with the people, Jack Flynn, Caitlin and her family, and the outsider, Donal Kelly. 

Jack and Caitlin get married, but their age difference is so great (Caitlin is still at the local school) that they really don't have a marriage.  They are able to have a working relationship, which is important, because Jack is dying of tuberculosis.  I am sure the relationship would have been different if he had not been so sick.  I don't think that Donal helped their relationship or a chance of a relationship, because he wanted Caitlin.

Therese Down did a good job of evenly adding the political turmoil and Jack and Caitlin's relationship.  When I was reading a chapter about politics, I wanted to learn more about Caitlin and Jack, and vice versa.

I was surprised by the ending.  I can't tell you what it was, but Jack became my favorite character, even though he purchased Caitlin from her father.  I recommend this book to those who like history and family.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Only with Blood, by Therese Down, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Bible Stories Gone Crazy! by Josh Edwards and illustrated by Emiliano Migliardo (Book Review!)

Bible Stories Gone Crazy!

By Josh Edwards

Illustrated by Emiliano Migliardo

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Christian / Children / Bible Stories

Published by- Candle Books

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 24

Age Group- Young Children (ages 3 and up)

Description of book- Hardback, ISBN 978-1-78128-190-1, $10.99

 

This book contains Bible stories that have crazy illustrations and good questions!  For example, did Noah have lots of constructions workers helping him build the ark?

There are also illustrations with Moses, Joshua, David, Daniel, Jonah, and Jesus.  Each story lists the verses in the Bible, so everyone can learn the true story.    

About the Author-

Josh Edwards currently lives in London and has three children.  He has written different Bible stories and activity books for children.  He has experience as an artist and teacher.

About the Illustrator-

Emiliano Migliardo has been illustrating for many years.  As a young child he knew that illustrating was in his future.

My thoughts-

I think the illustrations in this book are very clever and can provide a lot of entertainment for young children.  I think it would be perfect for those times when a child needs to be quiet, like church or even the vehicle. 

My son and I were not sure of the answers for a couple of the questions.  I would have liked an answer key in the back of the book or available on a website. 

I am glad that the Bible verses were listed.  It would have been neat to see the actual verses listed in the story, so the children would have instant access to the true story.

This book would be perfect for any child, who likes to have fun with books, and learn too.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Bible Stories Gone Crazy!, by Josh Edwards and illustrated by Emiliano Migliardo, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Atheist Who Didn’t Exist by Andy Bannister (Book Review!)

The Atheist Who Didn’t Exist Or: the Dreadful Consequences of Bad Arguments

By Andy Bannister

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- nonfiction / Christian

Published by- Monarch Books (Lion Hudson)

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 238

Age Group- Adult 

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-85721-610-6

Dr. Andy Bannister uses humor and thought provoking statements to unravel many arguments that atheists say.

Atheism is becoming more popular these days with movies, best-selling books, and other forms of advertisements. 

This book along with careful study will help readers to learn more about atheism.

Read an excerpt.

About the Author-

Andy Bannister currently lives in Toronto with his family.  He enjoys mountain climbing, hiking, and taking photos.  He is the Director of RZIM Canada.  He speaks all over the world to people about faith, culture, society, and politics.  He has a PhD in Islamic Studies.

My thoughts-

I liked how Dr. Bannister used humor in The Atheist Who Didn’t Exist to get his point across.  I feel that the use of humor will help draw skeptics in, because there will be more for them to relate to.  The title of the book and the different chapter titles, like “Aim for That Haystack,”  help draw people in as well.  They will want to know what haystacks have to do with “Why Psychological Arguments Against Religion Fails.”

He uses a lot of different quotes from different well-known atheists, such as Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens.  He takes those quotes and proceeds to deconstruct them to show how they cannot be true.

There are great lists of books for further reading at the end of each chapter.  I think it would have been nice if there was a master list at the end of the book.  I also would have liked to have been able to read a brief summary at the end of each chapter.  I would have enjoyed learning what Dr. Bannister felt were his main points.

This book can be used as a tool to help talk with atheists.  I recommend that no matter what you believe that you should read this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Atheist Who Didn’t Exist, by Andy Bannister, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

When I Pray What Does God Do? by David Wilkinson (Book Review!)

When I Pray What Does God Do?

By David Wilkinson

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- nonfiction / Christian / Prayer

Published by- Monarch Books (Lion Hudson)

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 222

Age Group- Adult 

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-85721-604-5

Professor David Wilkinson has written this book to explain the different myths and scientific explanations, which are used to explain what happens when prayers are not answered. 

Wilkinson uses scientific reasoning, answers from the Bible, and his own experiences to answer the questions.

Read an excerpt.

About the Author-

Professor David Wilkinson has doctorates in astrophysics and theology.  He is Principal of St. John’s College, Durham.

My thoughts-

I thought When I Pray What Does God Do? was interesting.

I could tell Wilkinson was very interested in his subject matter both from a scientific point-of-view and a biblical point-of-view.  He covered the subject of myths, out-of-date science, and new science and how they contradict what it is that it is said that God is doing when we pray. 

The best chapters were the two that discussed what God taught us about prayer and how God does or does not respond to prayer.

I think this book could have had shorter chapters, summaries at then end of each chapter, and discussion questions to help tie everything together.

I think that with a little bit more work this book could be great.  I recommend that people read it to see what they think.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received When I Pray What Does God Do?, by David Wilkinson, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Oswald: Return of the King by Edoardo Albert (Book Review!)

Oswald: Return of the King (Book 2 of The Northumbrian Thrones)

By Edoardo Albert

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Lion Hudson

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 448

Age Group- Adult 

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-78264-116-2

Cadwallon is now the king of Northumbria, but Oswald is the rightful king.  He has been exiled for many years on the island of Iona with monks and his brother, Oswiu.  He has learned to fight with courage, but he would much rather just be a monk.  The abbot would like him to be the person he is supposed to be.  The abbot needs a king who will help spread the faith. 

Will Oswald fight Cadwallon and win?  What will Penda, the pagan king do if Oswald becomes king?

This book also contains a synopsis for Edwin: High King of Britain, a list of characters, glossary, and a historical note.

About the Author-

Edoardo Albert has written for Time Out, History Today, and Minerva.  He is also a historian.

My thoughts-

One of my favorite time periods to read and learn about is the 1800’s and the American West.  My other favorite time period to read and learn about is the time when King Arthur could have lived. 

Oswald: Return of the King, was interesting.  I enjoyed learning more about one of my favorite time periods.  I did think that this book was a bit too long.  If around a 100 pages were eliminated, I think the book would have been a perfect length.  It is possible however that by doing that it would ruin the storyline. 

I enjoyed the historical note at the end of the book.  It was fun learning about the history that this novel was based on.  Since there were so many characters, I found the character list to be of great use.  The map and pronunciation guide were helpful as well.  I often referred to the glossary, because of the word, “wyrd.”  I kept thinking it meant word, but it means fate or destiny.  I was grateful for the synopsis of Edwin: High King of Britain.  I appreciate it when authors put them in their book series. 

My favorite character was Brother Aidan, because he was the most most likeable character.  He was also mentally and spiritually strong.  Oswald was not.  He needed to be a much stronger king.  He never should have been a king.  He was a good person though, because of all of the time he spent with the monks.

Albert did a wonderful job of writing this book from a historical point-of-view.  I highly recommend it.

Here is my review of Edwin: High King of Britain.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Oswald: Return of the King, by Edoardo Albert, 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Heartbreak Trail: An Andrea Carter Book by Susan K. Marlow (Book Review!)

Heartbreak Trail: An Andrea Carter Book (Circle C Milestones 2)

by Susan K. Marlow

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Historical / Christian / Young Adult

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 168

Age Group- Young Adult (12+)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $9.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4368-8

Andrea’s fifteenth birthday is coming up and she really wants to show her family that she can help drive the cattle to market.  Her mother does not want her to go, but she allows it after Andrea show her articles about other women who do not conform to what everybody expects of them.  Andrea can only be the cook’s helper.

Along the two week journey there are ornery horses and cows, a dangerous river crossing, and the chance to really help her brothers.  Will she be able to help them or will she give up?  Will the cowhands accept her?

About the Author-

Susan K. Marlow currently lives in Washington.  She is a writes, teaches writing workshops, and shares information about being a homeschooling parent.

My thoughts-

Right after the title page of this book there is a page with the word endurance, it’s definition, and a verse, Philippians 4:13.

Endurance certainly is the theme for this book.  Andrea decides that for her fifteenth birthday, she would like to go on the two-week cattle drive to Los Angeles.  She discovers that it is much more difficult than she thought it would be.  She has early mornings, mosquitoes, and a river, which is very difficult to get the cattle through.  I really admired how well she stuck with her brothers and did not give up.  I am sure there are many young adults her age today that would give up and demand to go back home.  Andrea sets a good example for all young ladies.  They must not give up, they can work hard with young men, and they can still be young ladies.

Heartbreak Trail was an excellent book.  I highly recommend it to everyone.  I cannot wait for the next book. 

P.S.  Even though it is the second book in the series, it is not necessary to read the other one first.  You will want to read all of the books about Andrea after reading this one.

My review of Thick as Thieves.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Heartbreak Trail: An Andrea Carter Book, by Susan K. Marlow, for free from 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 or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.