I had heard many wonderful reviews for “Heaven is Real” and really enjoyed it myself when I read it. Then, I also had the opportunity to read “Heaven is Real – For Kids”, an adaptation of the New York Times Bestseller, as told by Colton Burpo to his parents Todd and Sonja Burpo with illustrations by Wison Ong.
The story and experience is simply related in a story like way for children to understand, introducing them to Heaven and all of its wonders through the personal experience Colton had. I feel it is a wonderful and easy way to explain it all to little kids in a way they can easily understand.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Heroes and Villains of the Bible
I just finished reviewing a new book by Thomas Nelson publishers, “Heroes and Villains of the Bible”. I always enjoy reading and reviewing Bible books for children, and reading them with my nephews and nieces.
The book’s description says the following:
“50 true-life adventures of real people from the Bible—stories of good versus evil, right versus wrong, and heroes versus villains—and their life-shaping lessons that point children to God—the greatest hero of all!
The Bible is packed with stories of courageous people who loved and served God, and how He used them to do great things in the world. It is also filled with villainous people who disobeyed God and did horrible things. Heroes and Villains of the Bible encourages its readers to aspire to become great, courageous, and heroic servants of God, and reject all that is evil in the world.
With Heroes and Villains of the Bible, children will realize some of their favorite heroes aren’t from the movies, but are real people from the Bible.”
I think it’s wonderful to have the Bible and the stories therein brought out and presented in different ways. We know most of these stories by heart, but in a different presentation as well as a short lesson on each one, I think it’s a great way to highlight angles of the stories that may not have stood out to us previously.
All in all, I think it’s a great book.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The book’s description says the following:
“50 true-life adventures of real people from the Bible—stories of good versus evil, right versus wrong, and heroes versus villains—and their life-shaping lessons that point children to God—the greatest hero of all!
The Bible is packed with stories of courageous people who loved and served God, and how He used them to do great things in the world. It is also filled with villainous people who disobeyed God and did horrible things. Heroes and Villains of the Bible encourages its readers to aspire to become great, courageous, and heroic servants of God, and reject all that is evil in the world.
With Heroes and Villains of the Bible, children will realize some of their favorite heroes aren’t from the movies, but are real people from the Bible.”
I think it’s wonderful to have the Bible and the stories therein brought out and presented in different ways. We know most of these stories by heart, but in a different presentation as well as a short lesson on each one, I think it’s a great way to highlight angles of the stories that may not have stood out to us previously.
All in all, I think it’s a great book.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Heaven is for Real
I just received a copy of “Heaven is for Real” by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent, to read and review as a part of Thomas Nelson publishers Books for Bloggers program. I had missed getting a copy the last time it was up for grabs at which time a friend of mine read and reviewed it and had nothing but positive and encouraging things to say about it. This is the deluxe, keepsake edition of the bestselling book by the same name that came out a few months back, telling the story of Colton, a normal four year old boy who undergoes an emergency surgery during which time he goes unconscious and has an experience in Heaven. He survives and tells of his experience, what we saw going on in the hospital room, what he saw his family doing, and then his experience in Heaven with clear details.
I have to say that I was not disappointed. It was heartwarming and encouraging. I know there are those on both sides of the coin as far as comments and opinions of this book and others like it. I feel there is so much more to Heaven and the afterlife than what we know right now, as the scripture clearly says, “Eye hath not seen, nor hath ear heard the things which God has prepared for those who love Him. But God has revealed them unto us by His spirit.” I feel that it is through experiences like this one that we are given a peek into just a fraction of some of the wonderful and beauties in store for us.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I have to say that I was not disappointed. It was heartwarming and encouraging. I know there are those on both sides of the coin as far as comments and opinions of this book and others like it. I feel there is so much more to Heaven and the afterlife than what we know right now, as the scripture clearly says, “Eye hath not seen, nor hath ear heard the things which God has prepared for those who love Him. But God has revealed them unto us by His spirit.” I feel that it is through experiences like this one that we are given a peek into just a fraction of some of the wonderful and beauties in store for us.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
The Book of Man
I’ve read several of William Bennett’s books and have several of them as a part of my personal library including, “The Book of Virtues” and “The Moral Compass”. So when I saw his new book “The Book of Man” I jumped at the chance to read and review it.
As in his previous books, he stories, letters, poems, etc. to illustrate and bring the life the themes of the book. It’s challenging and motivating. I have greatly enjoyed it and am now passing it on to my brother so he can read it as well.
The book is broken down into topics sections including:
Man in War
Man at Work
Man in Play, Competition, and Leisure
Man in the Polis
Man wth Woman and Children
Man in Prayer and Reflection
The stories are well written and presented. I like the way that each story stands on its own and is short and easy to read. I like to read books like this a little at a time and take time to think and reflect on what I just read.
Personally, I feel the world of today is so lacking in the way of values and this is one of the main reasons I like Mr. Bennett’s books, as it brings back a touch of the way things used to be, with a stronger sense of morels. I can see how this book may not be appealing to all in that way, but it is something so needed.
It’s very nicely presented and makes a great gift book.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
As in his previous books, he stories, letters, poems, etc. to illustrate and bring the life the themes of the book. It’s challenging and motivating. I have greatly enjoyed it and am now passing it on to my brother so he can read it as well.
The book is broken down into topics sections including:
Man in War
Man at Work
Man in Play, Competition, and Leisure
Man in the Polis
Man wth Woman and Children
Man in Prayer and Reflection
The stories are well written and presented. I like the way that each story stands on its own and is short and easy to read. I like to read books like this a little at a time and take time to think and reflect on what I just read.
Personally, I feel the world of today is so lacking in the way of values and this is one of the main reasons I like Mr. Bennett’s books, as it brings back a touch of the way things used to be, with a stronger sense of morels. I can see how this book may not be appealing to all in that way, but it is something so needed.
It’s very nicely presented and makes a great gift book.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Night Night Blessings
I just had a chance to review “Night Night Blessings”, a padded board book for little kids by Amy Parker, with appropriate illustrations by Marijan Ramljak.
As the book description says, it’s a cute book to read as you cuddle up with your little ones and count together all the blessings God brings into our lives daily. It counts in particular the blessings of their day, getting them off to a good start in thanksgiving. It goes through some of the different things little ones do, experience and enjoy throughout their day, familiar times, activities and people.
It’s a wonderful way to put them to bed at night and filling their mind with good thoughts before they go to sleep. Kids always love having books made just for them, and I am looking forward to seeing the reactions of my nieces as I offer to read this to them.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
As the book description says, it’s a cute book to read as you cuddle up with your little ones and count together all the blessings God brings into our lives daily. It counts in particular the blessings of their day, getting them off to a good start in thanksgiving. It goes through some of the different things little ones do, experience and enjoy throughout their day, familiar times, activities and people.
It’s a wonderful way to put them to bed at night and filling their mind with good thoughts before they go to sleep. Kids always love having books made just for them, and I am looking forward to seeing the reactions of my nieces as I offer to read this to them.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Smack Dab in the Middle of God’s Love
“Smack Dab in the Middle of God’s Love” is a new book by Brennan Manning and John Blase, published by Thomas Nelson publishers. It tells the story of a couple in the small Mexican village of Hopi. While Willie Juan and Ana couldn’t have children of their own, their home is always full of neighborhood children with lots of laughter and love. The book tells of what happened one day while they were all enjoying a beautiful evening and Ana’s most delicious sopapillas and Willie Juan asked a curious question.
“Little friends, someday, when you are in heaven, what do you think Abba (God) will ask you?”
As they talk about question and each of their answers, they learn how much God loves each of us and that we are all smack-dab in the middle of His love.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
“Little friends, someday, when you are in heaven, what do you think Abba (God) will ask you?”
As they talk about question and each of their answers, they learn how much God loves each of us and that we are all smack-dab in the middle of His love.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Hermie & Friends: Hermie, a Common Caterpillar
Max Lucados’ books are always uplifting and this one is no different – with a special message for each one of us. “Hermie & Friends: Hermie, a Common Caterpillar” is a children’s book in a new, easy to read format. The story is engaging, with colorful illustrations.
For those who have read or seen any of the DVDs in the series, you will remember that Hermie is a plain, common, green caterpillar. As he goes through his days, he sees other special gifts each of his friends seem to have, all that is except for him and his caterpillar friend, Wormie. At night before bed, he asks God, “Why did you make us so common?” To which God lovingly replies “Don’t worry. I love you just the way you are and I’m not finished with you yet.” I don’t want to steal the end of the story here, but suffice it to say, in time he sees the wonderful plan God has for them both!
This is a great inspirational book and wonderful way to help explain to little ones the beautiful truth that God loves each one of us just the way we are and that He's always working in our lives. And in most cases He’s not finished with us yet! He has begun a good work in us and He will finish it. It was a great reminder for me, and I can’t wait to share it with the little ones in my family.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
For those who have read or seen any of the DVDs in the series, you will remember that Hermie is a plain, common, green caterpillar. As he goes through his days, he sees other special gifts each of his friends seem to have, all that is except for him and his caterpillar friend, Wormie. At night before bed, he asks God, “Why did you make us so common?” To which God lovingly replies “Don’t worry. I love you just the way you are and I’m not finished with you yet.” I don’t want to steal the end of the story here, but suffice it to say, in time he sees the wonderful plan God has for them both!
This is a great inspirational book and wonderful way to help explain to little ones the beautiful truth that God loves each one of us just the way we are and that He's always working in our lives. And in most cases He’s not finished with us yet! He has begun a good work in us and He will finish it. It was a great reminder for me, and I can’t wait to share it with the little ones in my family.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Fresh-Brewed Life
As one who enjoys an inviting cup of coffee each morning upon waking, just the title of Nicole Johnson’s book “Fresh Brewed Life” caught my attention. I love the way it’s set up, easy to read and savor, but yet goes down into your soul and invigorates you. “Fresh Brewed Life” is divided into 10 wonderful chapters covering the following themes:
Introduction: Taking Your First Sip
Chapter 1 Surrender to God
Chapter 2 Encounter Your Journal
Chapter 3 Listen to Your Longings
Chapter 4 Embrace Your Beauty
Chapter 5 Interview Your Anger
Chapter 6 Savor Your Sexuality
Chapter 7 Celebrate Your Friendships
Chapter 8 Change Your World
Chapter 9 Enrich Your Relationships
Chapter 10 Enjoy Your Freedom
Epilogue: Good to the Last Drop
Discussion Questions
Each chapter has it’s own sections as well, which makes it easy to pick up and enjoy whether you have 5 minutes to read a short passage, or enough time to enjoy a full chapter. Being one who enjoys sayings and quotations, I’ve enjoyed reading new ones here, sprinkled throughout on the topics of the chapters.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Introduction: Taking Your First Sip
Chapter 1 Surrender to God
Chapter 2 Encounter Your Journal
Chapter 3 Listen to Your Longings
Chapter 4 Embrace Your Beauty
Chapter 5 Interview Your Anger
Chapter 6 Savor Your Sexuality
Chapter 7 Celebrate Your Friendships
Chapter 8 Change Your World
Chapter 9 Enrich Your Relationships
Chapter 10 Enjoy Your Freedom
Epilogue: Good to the Last Drop
Discussion Questions
Each chapter has it’s own sections as well, which makes it easy to pick up and enjoy whether you have 5 minutes to read a short passage, or enough time to enjoy a full chapter. Being one who enjoys sayings and quotations, I’ve enjoyed reading new ones here, sprinkled throughout on the topics of the chapters.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Don't Check Your Brains at the Door
“Don't Check Your Brains at the Door” by Josh McDowell & Bob Hostetler presents apologetic ideas in a simple, easy-to-understand mini-devotional and has questions/references at the end of each chapter. It covers general knowledge about false religions, cults, and other things that get thrown at you during your life as a Christian.
Following is the book description:
“Seven in 10 Protestants ages 18 to 30—both evangelical and mainline—who went to church regularly in high school said they quit attending by age 23, according to the survey by LifeWay Research.” (USA Today)
Don’t Check Your Brains at the Door gives teens answers that make sense, even for the toughest of questions. Internationally known defender of the faith Josh McDowell and co-author Bob Hostetler offer clarity laced with humor to expose common myths about God, the Bible, religion, and life to show how Christianity stands up to the test of fact and reason. Teens will be better equipped to stick with their faith as they begin to understand why they believe and why it’s important to make a lifetime commitment to Christ and the church.
I’ve enjoyed reading this book and feel it’s a good reference book which will help me in answering questions about the Bible, God, Jesus, and other areas of Christian faith.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Following is the book description:
“Seven in 10 Protestants ages 18 to 30—both evangelical and mainline—who went to church regularly in high school said they quit attending by age 23, according to the survey by LifeWay Research.” (USA Today)
Don’t Check Your Brains at the Door gives teens answers that make sense, even for the toughest of questions. Internationally known defender of the faith Josh McDowell and co-author Bob Hostetler offer clarity laced with humor to expose common myths about God, the Bible, religion, and life to show how Christianity stands up to the test of fact and reason. Teens will be better equipped to stick with their faith as they begin to understand why they believe and why it’s important to make a lifetime commitment to Christ and the church.
I’ve enjoyed reading this book and feel it’s a good reference book which will help me in answering questions about the Bible, God, Jesus, and other areas of Christian faith.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Rumors of God
“Rumors of God - Experience the Kind of Faith You´ve Only Heard About” by Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson covers some of the basic beauties of Christ and our lives as His followers, reminding us to get back to the basics. These things can be easy to forget in today’s modern society, or those around us try to convince us is old fashioned or old hat, but they are still very much alive and real truths and realities and just a matter of us being willing to believe and follow.
The chapters in “Rumors of God” cover the following topics:
1. The Sculptor’s Shop Rumors of Abundant Life
2. Hostages of the Mind Rumors of Another Dream
3. The Great Reversal Rumors of Generosity
4. The Faith You’ve Only Heard About Rumors of Love
5. Getting the Gospel in Order Rumors of Grace
6. Giving Up Your Rights Rumors of Freedom
7. The Radical Individual Rumors of Commitment
8. Loving Beneath the Surface Rumors of Community
9. The Greenroom Rumors of Justice
10. Our Burning Revolution Rumors of Hope
There is also a Reading Group Guide, with thought provoking questions to go with the topics of each chapter of the book.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The chapters in “Rumors of God” cover the following topics:
1. The Sculptor’s Shop Rumors of Abundant Life
2. Hostages of the Mind Rumors of Another Dream
3. The Great Reversal Rumors of Generosity
4. The Faith You’ve Only Heard About Rumors of Love
5. Getting the Gospel in Order Rumors of Grace
6. Giving Up Your Rights Rumors of Freedom
7. The Radical Individual Rumors of Commitment
8. Loving Beneath the Surface Rumors of Community
9. The Greenroom Rumors of Justice
10. Our Burning Revolution Rumors of Hope
There is also a Reading Group Guide, with thought provoking questions to go with the topics of each chapter of the book.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
God's Love Letters to You
In “God’s Love Letters to You – A 40-Day Devotional Experience”, author Dr. Larry Crabb offers forty selected passages from one of his previous books, “66 Love Letter” for daily reading. The devotional reading for each day is based on a book of the Bible. It includes a Bible verse, followed by a short message based on the verse, a few thought provoking questions to help the reader pause to reflect on the words and then ends with a short prayer.
I was a bit disappointed overall, I expected something more. It did however give me good food for thought and helped me think of and reflect on different lessons that can be learned from the scriptures as I tried not to focus so much on the things I didn’t care for so much and used it more as a spring board.
One thing that would be good to be aware of is this book is for those who at least have a good overall Bible base and foundation to understand a bit of the background of where the verses and lessons are coming from.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I was a bit disappointed overall, I expected something more. It did however give me good food for thought and helped me think of and reflect on different lessons that can be learned from the scriptures as I tried not to focus so much on the things I didn’t care for so much and used it more as a spring board.
One thing that would be good to be aware of is this book is for those who at least have a good overall Bible base and foundation to understand a bit of the background of where the verses and lessons are coming from.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
The Blessing
“The Blessing” by By John Trent & Gary Smalley is an updated and revised version of their previously published book.
I feel a special something for books that help me dive more deeply into scripture and pull out precious treasures and gems.
I want to be one of those who communicates and transmits that unconditional love and acceptance to those around me and help to make a difference in their lives, to give value to them and their lives. This book helps to cement the importance of this more than ever and the effect it can have on them.
It is very informative and practical. It gives hands on ideas and examples so anyone can jump right in and bless those around them. I’m very excited about using and implementing some of the ideas in our home over the summer.
Reading this book also helped me to see my clearly how I have been blessed and received blessing from others and my responsibility to in turn be a blessing in the lives of others.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I feel a special something for books that help me dive more deeply into scripture and pull out precious treasures and gems.
I want to be one of those who communicates and transmits that unconditional love and acceptance to those around me and help to make a difference in their lives, to give value to them and their lives. This book helps to cement the importance of this more than ever and the effect it can have on them.
It is very informative and practical. It gives hands on ideas and examples so anyone can jump right in and bless those around them. I’m very excited about using and implementing some of the ideas in our home over the summer.
Reading this book also helped me to see my clearly how I have been blessed and received blessing from others and my responsibility to in turn be a blessing in the lives of others.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
The Waiting Place
I have been delighted to read Eileen Button’s “The Waiting Place”. She’s a wonderful story teller, recreating many memories and experiences and the feelings and emotions of them. These are not portrayed through rose colored glasses, but very human, realistically showing the good, the bad, the happy and the sad. Through it you come to realize that life is a wonderful mixture of it all, without any of which something would be missing. It helped to remind me once again that it would be difficult to truly value and appreciate this wonderful thing we call life without this incredible combination.
"The Waiting Place" reminds us of the wonderful things that can happen and come from what may seem at first glance to be delays, stops, bends or changes in the way we think or want them to be. And from these twists and turns that come into the paths of our lives can come some wonderful experiences, gifts, treasures and beautiful if we will let ourselves see them.
Through reading Eileen’s own personal accounts, I was left with the desire to take a walk down my own memory lane and revisit my own past and life and see beauties have been there waiting for me.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
"The Waiting Place" reminds us of the wonderful things that can happen and come from what may seem at first glance to be delays, stops, bends or changes in the way we think or want them to be. And from these twists and turns that come into the paths of our lives can come some wonderful experiences, gifts, treasures and beautiful if we will let ourselves see them.
Through reading Eileen’s own personal accounts, I was left with the desire to take a walk down my own memory lane and revisit my own past and life and see beauties have been there waiting for me.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Strike it Rich with Pocket Change
I just had the chance to review “Strike it Rich with Pocket Change” by Ken Potter and Dr. Brian Allen and found it very interesting. This is the updated 3rd edition.
If you are interested in the topic of collecting coins and taking a bit of time to try your hand at studying the coins that pass through your change purse to see if you come across any that could be worth a bit more, this may catch your attention as well! For me as a beginner, I thought it was great and I’m never going to look at pocket change the same again!
For those who know a bit more about the subject since I’m just learning about the subject, I know there are other books out there on the same topic. But this is a great one to get you started. It was a pretty easy read, and most of the book consists of the pages that go through some of the different coins that have been discovered to have some sort of printing error or imperfections which can make them worth much more than meets the eye.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
If you are interested in the topic of collecting coins and taking a bit of time to try your hand at studying the coins that pass through your change purse to see if you come across any that could be worth a bit more, this may catch your attention as well! For me as a beginner, I thought it was great and I’m never going to look at pocket change the same again!
For those who know a bit more about the subject since I’m just learning about the subject, I know there are other books out there on the same topic. But this is a great one to get you started. It was a pretty easy read, and most of the book consists of the pages that go through some of the different coins that have been discovered to have some sort of printing error or imperfections which can make them worth much more than meets the eye.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Put Your Dream to the Test
I just had the chance to review a new book by best-selling author John Maxwell called, “Put Your Dream to the Test”. We’ve all had dreams, but not all of us have lived them or made them reality for a number of reasons. And while I’ve realized some of mine, I feel I still have many more to live.
Maxwell covers the following topics in his book:
1. The Ownership Question: Is my dream really my dream?
2. The Clarity Question: Do I clearly see my dream?
3. The Reality Question: Am I depending on factors within my control to achieve my dream?
4. The Passion Question: Does my dream compel me to follow it?
5. The Pathway Question: Do I have a strategy to reach my dream?
6. The People Question: Have I included the people I need to realize my dream?
7. The Cost Question: Am I willing to pay the price for my dream?
8. The Tenacity Question: Am I moving closer to my dream?
9. The Fulfillment Question: Does working toward my dream bring satisfaction?
10. The Significance Question: Does my dream benefit others?
Reading “Put Your Dream to the Test” is putting not just my dreams, but also me to the test. In reading it, I’ve been challenged to ask myself the questions it poses and to make decisions that make it clear that I am the one responsible for whether or not I will go for my dreams and give them a try. After reading this, I feel strengthened and empowered to do something about them!
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Maxwell covers the following topics in his book:
1. The Ownership Question: Is my dream really my dream?
2. The Clarity Question: Do I clearly see my dream?
3. The Reality Question: Am I depending on factors within my control to achieve my dream?
4. The Passion Question: Does my dream compel me to follow it?
5. The Pathway Question: Do I have a strategy to reach my dream?
6. The People Question: Have I included the people I need to realize my dream?
7. The Cost Question: Am I willing to pay the price for my dream?
8. The Tenacity Question: Am I moving closer to my dream?
9. The Fulfillment Question: Does working toward my dream bring satisfaction?
10. The Significance Question: Does my dream benefit others?
Reading “Put Your Dream to the Test” is putting not just my dreams, but also me to the test. In reading it, I’ve been challenged to ask myself the questions it poses and to make decisions that make it clear that I am the one responsible for whether or not I will go for my dreams and give them a try. After reading this, I feel strengthened and empowered to do something about them!
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Beyond Talent
I love the way John Maxwell presents his book, “Beyond Talent”. The language is simple and clear and the message easy to grasp. His book explains that having talent is not enough, you must work hard to develop your talent in order to become successful. The chapters each outline one of 13 factors to maximize a person's talent. Just reading the titles and blurbs of each chapter got me right there! I love the way he uses one main story per chapter to illustrate the lesson he brings out, it makes it so easy to remember and remind myself of this points. The topics covered are:
1. Beliefs lifts you talent. It’s called the guarantee. At the time, many people said it was just big talk. Not true. It was a mark of the confidence possessed by the person who uttered it. That strong sense of belief made him a legend and his team members champions. What could it do for you?
2. Passion energizes your talent. Why would a barber receive a prestigious fellowship, be recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and be awarded an honorary doctorate? Hint: it has little to do with barbering and everything to do with his passion to change the world.
3. Initiative activates your talent. No one can make the most of his talent in the midst of bureaucratic red tape, especially in the fallout of natural disaster. Right? You might be surprised. Because of its initiative, this company was able to do the seemingly impossible in a remarkable sixty-six days.
4. Focus directs your talent. What do you get when you put two unfocused and inexperienced hunters in one of the most bountiful hunting regions in the world? Comedy! Learn where and how to focus your efforts so that you get much better results than these hunters did.
5. Preparation positions your talent. How do you prepare for a trip to an uncharted area with unknown obstacles for which you must pack everything you’ll need for more than a year? That was the challenge for this great adventurer. He was successful. This chapter will help you to be prepared for whatever challenge lies ahead of you.
6. Practice sharpens your talent. Nobody gave Charles a chance. Even his own family expected him to fail. But instead of letting it bother him, he practiced. Soon he became the best in the world at his profession. He’s been called the first person to become a name brand. His secret can become yours.
7. Perseverance sustains your talent. What do you do when a decade-old dream dies? That was the question for Vonetta. She wanted to quit, but how could she? She placed her hopes in a new dream, and her perseverance took her through to the highest level. Find out where it can take you.
8. Courage tests your talent. His courage was legendary. Churchill stood alone against the Nazis and inspired a nation to stand with him during World War II. His story and how he developed his courage as a young man may also inspire you.
9. Teachability expands your talent. He may have been the most talented person who ever lived. At age twenty-six he was recognized as a master. But even greater than his talent were his curiosity and teachability. Those qualities elevated him from master to legend. Will they also elevate you?
10. Character protects your talent. What is the greatest threat to your talent? Lack of resources? Training? Opportunity? No, lack of character. When this scientist cut corners and lied, he not only hurt himself—he let the whole world down. Learn how character can protect you.
11. Relationships influence your talent. He was a drug addict. He spent time in jail. Some thought he was a lost cause. But not this woman. She helped him turn his life around. All relationships influence our talent—one way or the other. Discover whether your relationships are taking you in the best direction.
12. Responsibility strengthens your talent. Is there such a thing as too much talent? Can it lead to a person’s downfall? Dan had a one-in-a-million athletic gift. But what hurt him wasn’t too much talent—it was too little responsibility. Find out how to increase your responsibility to match the size of your talent.
13. Teamwork multiplies your talent. To what does a world-class activist and rock star attribute his success? To the same thing that the best pilots in the world and the nation’s top CEOs do. Teamwork! Individuals make it to the top only with the help of others. Learn how teamwork can work for you.
1. Beliefs lifts you talent. It’s called the guarantee. At the time, many people said it was just big talk. Not true. It was a mark of the confidence possessed by the person who uttered it. That strong sense of belief made him a legend and his team members champions. What could it do for you?
2. Passion energizes your talent. Why would a barber receive a prestigious fellowship, be recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and be awarded an honorary doctorate? Hint: it has little to do with barbering and everything to do with his passion to change the world.
3. Initiative activates your talent. No one can make the most of his talent in the midst of bureaucratic red tape, especially in the fallout of natural disaster. Right? You might be surprised. Because of its initiative, this company was able to do the seemingly impossible in a remarkable sixty-six days.
4. Focus directs your talent. What do you get when you put two unfocused and inexperienced hunters in one of the most bountiful hunting regions in the world? Comedy! Learn where and how to focus your efforts so that you get much better results than these hunters did.
5. Preparation positions your talent. How do you prepare for a trip to an uncharted area with unknown obstacles for which you must pack everything you’ll need for more than a year? That was the challenge for this great adventurer. He was successful. This chapter will help you to be prepared for whatever challenge lies ahead of you.
6. Practice sharpens your talent. Nobody gave Charles a chance. Even his own family expected him to fail. But instead of letting it bother him, he practiced. Soon he became the best in the world at his profession. He’s been called the first person to become a name brand. His secret can become yours.
7. Perseverance sustains your talent. What do you do when a decade-old dream dies? That was the question for Vonetta. She wanted to quit, but how could she? She placed her hopes in a new dream, and her perseverance took her through to the highest level. Find out where it can take you.
8. Courage tests your talent. His courage was legendary. Churchill stood alone against the Nazis and inspired a nation to stand with him during World War II. His story and how he developed his courage as a young man may also inspire you.
9. Teachability expands your talent. He may have been the most talented person who ever lived. At age twenty-six he was recognized as a master. But even greater than his talent were his curiosity and teachability. Those qualities elevated him from master to legend. Will they also elevate you?
10. Character protects your talent. What is the greatest threat to your talent? Lack of resources? Training? Opportunity? No, lack of character. When this scientist cut corners and lied, he not only hurt himself—he let the whole world down. Learn how character can protect you.
11. Relationships influence your talent. He was a drug addict. He spent time in jail. Some thought he was a lost cause. But not this woman. She helped him turn his life around. All relationships influence our talent—one way or the other. Discover whether your relationships are taking you in the best direction.
12. Responsibility strengthens your talent. Is there such a thing as too much talent? Can it lead to a person’s downfall? Dan had a one-in-a-million athletic gift. But what hurt him wasn’t too much talent—it was too little responsibility. Find out how to increase your responsibility to match the size of your talent.
13. Teamwork multiplies your talent. To what does a world-class activist and rock star attribute his success? To the same thing that the best pilots in the world and the nation’s top CEOs do. Teamwork! Individuals make it to the top only with the help of others. Learn how teamwork can work for you.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
The Final Summit
This is the first book I've read from Andy Andrews. “The Final Summit” is very well written, telling the story of David Ponder, now in his older years and has just lost his wife Ellen. David is visited by an angel who tells him he has a special job for him, to work with many fellow Travelers including famous historical leaders to find the one principle which will save mankind before time runs out.
In this book, David Ponder, now an old man, is visited by Gabriel. He has been sent to gather all the "Travelers" to answer the single question that will save humanity. The "Travelers" were people who had the experience of time travel and/or a visit from Gabriel in order to respond wisely to some event in history.
Andrews explores principles that have guided great leaders in days past and how we might apply these to our lives.
Though not my style, this is a well written book that gets you thinking about life and how we’re living it.
Disclaimer: I received this video set free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
In this book, David Ponder, now an old man, is visited by Gabriel. He has been sent to gather all the "Travelers" to answer the single question that will save humanity. The "Travelers" were people who had the experience of time travel and/or a visit from Gabriel in order to respond wisely to some event in history.
Andrews explores principles that have guided great leaders in days past and how we might apply these to our lives.
Though not my style, this is a well written book that gets you thinking about life and how we’re living it.
Disclaimer: I received this video set free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Knock ‘Em Dead 2011
Finding myself nearing my last years of high school and entering the job market as I continue my studies, I can say that this has been a time of relative anxiety and trepidation as to what I will find and how this will work out for me especially in today’s reality of the economy, job market and opportunities.
I love the way “Knock ‘Em Dead” takes you through many of the different angles I will be facing, giving me the help and tools I will need. And not only that, but giving good advice and helpful links on areas I need to work on starting from branding myself and going on to transferred skills, learned behavior and core values that are important. I have greatly benefited from the information and web links included and know that this book is one that I will be using and referring to at each step of my journey.
I like how this book is updated for today’s realities and a new edition seems to be put out each year. I found a few of the web links are no longer available, but I can imagine that is understandable and to be expected when you are referring to other web sites which may be changed and updated as well so it’s not always easy to know ahead of time.
I’m working on the different steps and areas that are pointed out and look forward to seeing how they will help me in my job search!
Disclaimer: I received this video set free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I love the way “Knock ‘Em Dead” takes you through many of the different angles I will be facing, giving me the help and tools I will need. And not only that, but giving good advice and helpful links on areas I need to work on starting from branding myself and going on to transferred skills, learned behavior and core values that are important. I have greatly benefited from the information and web links included and know that this book is one that I will be using and referring to at each step of my journey.
I like how this book is updated for today’s realities and a new edition seems to be put out each year. I found a few of the web links are no longer available, but I can imagine that is understandable and to be expected when you are referring to other web sites which may be changed and updated as well so it’s not always easy to know ahead of time.
I’m working on the different steps and areas that are pointed out and look forward to seeing how they will help me in my job search!
Disclaimer: I received this video set free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Cute Kids Bible
About The Book…
A sweet addition to the Tommy Nelson Baby/Toddler Bible line, using an adorable image of a flocked velvet bunny.
Inspired by Baby’s First Bible with the adorable fuzzy duck cover, this new offering for little ones, The Velveteen Bible features soft fur and a fuzzy tail! Inside, the New King James Version scripture is accompanied by whimsical images of bunnies and other baby animals, colorful borders, and lovely sentiments from the scriptures. The Bible is packaged in a keepsake treasure box.
Give the Velveteen Bible as that extra special gift for baptisms, christenings, baby dedications, birthdays, or any gift-giving occasion in your little one’s life. Make it sweet by personalizing the presentation page and family record section. Your child will enjoy reading God’s word while being delighted by the adorable animals playfully decorating the full-color pages throughout.
My Thoughts…
When I saw this book, I jumped at the chance to review it as I’m always keeping my eye open for good kids books I can share with my niece.
This is a full version of the Bible in the New King James version, a red letter edition with cute animal illustrations to key Bible verses and even a yearly reading plan. It’s a hard back version and comes in a keepsake box. It also comes with a yearly reading plan.
While this Bible seems to be made for small children, I see it more as something they can take along with them to Sunday School and I’m not sure how much they will be able to read from it until they are a bit older because of the small size (4 1/2″ x 6 1/2″ approx.) and letters. But knowing little children, I can still see them having fun feeling they have a Bible of their own just like their older brothers and sisters and parents.
I look forward to giving this to my niece as a gift and just see her now carrying it around proudly, leafing through it and showing it off to all.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of The Velveteen Bible through the Book Sneeze book reviewers program, in exchange for my honest review.
A sweet addition to the Tommy Nelson Baby/Toddler Bible line, using an adorable image of a flocked velvet bunny.
Inspired by Baby’s First Bible with the adorable fuzzy duck cover, this new offering for little ones, The Velveteen Bible features soft fur and a fuzzy tail! Inside, the New King James Version scripture is accompanied by whimsical images of bunnies and other baby animals, colorful borders, and lovely sentiments from the scriptures. The Bible is packaged in a keepsake treasure box.
Give the Velveteen Bible as that extra special gift for baptisms, christenings, baby dedications, birthdays, or any gift-giving occasion in your little one’s life. Make it sweet by personalizing the presentation page and family record section. Your child will enjoy reading God’s word while being delighted by the adorable animals playfully decorating the full-color pages throughout.
My Thoughts…
When I saw this book, I jumped at the chance to review it as I’m always keeping my eye open for good kids books I can share with my niece.
This is a full version of the Bible in the New King James version, a red letter edition with cute animal illustrations to key Bible verses and even a yearly reading plan. It’s a hard back version and comes in a keepsake box. It also comes with a yearly reading plan.
While this Bible seems to be made for small children, I see it more as something they can take along with them to Sunday School and I’m not sure how much they will be able to read from it until they are a bit older because of the small size (4 1/2″ x 6 1/2″ approx.) and letters. But knowing little children, I can still see them having fun feeling they have a Bible of their own just like their older brothers and sisters and parents.
I look forward to giving this to my niece as a gift and just see her now carrying it around proudly, leafing through it and showing it off to all.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of The Velveteen Bible through the Book Sneeze book reviewers program, in exchange for my honest review.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
What's He Really Thinking? How to Be a Relational Genius with the Man in Your Life
The blurb for “What's He Really Thinking? How to Be a Relational Genius with the Man in Your Life”, starts out saying the following,
“A woman's guide into a man's heart and mind offering invaluable insights, understanding, and the tools for building healthier relationships.”
There are so many differences between us, the ones from Mars and those of us from Venus. It’s a topic that I keep my ears pealed for, as I feel when I understand it better, it helps me to be more accepting and have a deeper understanding and appreciation of those of the opposite sex.
I love the way that Paula writes about it all, from a very personal, inviting, easy to read style. At the same time so respectful and bringing out wonderful and positive sides to things that can be a bit hidden at times. In reading and understanding a bit more some of the in’s and out’s of how men think, why they do what they do and what they struggle with it’s helping to give my greater understanding and appreciation for them. And while I’m single at the moment and not involved in a personal relationship it’s shedding new light on some of the experiences I’ve lived over the years and even giving me new and greater understanding of my two brothers.
I received this book free from Thomas Nelson, Inc. through their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
“A woman's guide into a man's heart and mind offering invaluable insights, understanding, and the tools for building healthier relationships.”
There are so many differences between us, the ones from Mars and those of us from Venus. It’s a topic that I keep my ears pealed for, as I feel when I understand it better, it helps me to be more accepting and have a deeper understanding and appreciation of those of the opposite sex.
I love the way that Paula writes about it all, from a very personal, inviting, easy to read style. At the same time so respectful and bringing out wonderful and positive sides to things that can be a bit hidden at times. In reading and understanding a bit more some of the in’s and out’s of how men think, why they do what they do and what they struggle with it’s helping to give my greater understanding and appreciation for them. And while I’m single at the moment and not involved in a personal relationship it’s shedding new light on some of the experiences I’ve lived over the years and even giving me new and greater understanding of my two brothers.
I received this book free from Thomas Nelson, Inc. through their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Powerful Book!
Wow, it’s been quite some time since I’ve read a book that got me hooked the first few pages as this one did. Mike Flynt has a way of presenting it all in a very captivating and yet easy to understand way, adding many stories, anecdotes and personal life which help to bring out and illustrate the points presented.
While so many of the principles he talks about are not new, the way he weaves them together is wonderful and personally is just what I needed. I’m at a bit of a crossroads in my life, taking stock of the past, while looking forward to future to see what I really want to do, where I want to go and what’s the best way to get there.
I have to say that this book has been and continues to be a wonderful guide at this stage in my life. As I’ve read through it, I’ve marked and highlighted many things throughout. It has brought up many wonderful points to ponder as I take stock of things in my life and I will be referring back to it regularly.
As a Christian, Mike Flynt ties things in with scripture, Biblical and Christian principles. However, he does bring out that many of the life principles work for everyone. Knowing how much this book has meant and how it has helped me, it’s my hope that it can be and do the same for others as well, no matter what their personal belief.
This book was gratefully received from Thomas Nelson Publisher as part of their booksneeze.com blogger program. I am not required to write positive review and therefore, the review is 100% opinion of my own.
While so many of the principles he talks about are not new, the way he weaves them together is wonderful and personally is just what I needed. I’m at a bit of a crossroads in my life, taking stock of the past, while looking forward to future to see what I really want to do, where I want to go and what’s the best way to get there.
I have to say that this book has been and continues to be a wonderful guide at this stage in my life. As I’ve read through it, I’ve marked and highlighted many things throughout. It has brought up many wonderful points to ponder as I take stock of things in my life and I will be referring back to it regularly.
As a Christian, Mike Flynt ties things in with scripture, Biblical and Christian principles. However, he does bring out that many of the life principles work for everyone. Knowing how much this book has meant and how it has helped me, it’s my hope that it can be and do the same for others as well, no matter what their personal belief.
This book was gratefully received from Thomas Nelson Publisher as part of their booksneeze.com blogger program. I am not required to write positive review and therefore, the review is 100% opinion of my own.
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