Books

Raw & real -this book is all about grace. I had to read this book twice to capture it. It is blunt and to the point, so much so that I was not sure what to think at first. It almost felt crass, but the back of the book is recommended by Paul David Tripp, Jerry Bridges, and Tim Challies. Written by two friends the theme is, "Wherever real grace flows, real brokenness was there first."

"Practicing Affirmation" by Sam Crabtree. Here is a book that I wish that I had read years ago. As CJ Mahaney writes,
"Too many of us most of our words each day for criticizing and complaining. If you find that your communication lacks encouragement, if you want to grow in affirming others, if you plan to say any words at all today- please read this book!"
This book teaches what Biblical affirmation looks like following words spoken from Jesus. Encouragement gives hope for the future, affirmation points out a Christ-like quality in a person's character.

At the young age of 2, over 80% of Joel's body was burned in a car accident. Now 30 years later, Joel writes about his child hood, the many operations that he had to endure, and the obstacles that he had to overcome. Everytime he comes out of his home he encounters people constantly staring at him. Some are so rude that they will want to touch him to see if he is wearing a mask! What I loved about this book is how he uses his story to share the Gospel with others. I especially admire his parents, who were the same age as I am now when this accident occurred. They showed much wisdom and maturity in dealing with this on- going trial.

I didn't know a thing about Gladys Aylward until I read this book. An inspiring lady who left the comforts of her home in England to become a missionary in dark China. She was a lady who was passionate about prayer and never rested for the sake of the Gospel. She didn't feel like she had any talents, but used her gifts of hospitality and engaging in conversation with complete strangers to bring the gospel to many. Gladys Aylward led 100 children over the dangerous mountains in China in order to escape war from Japan.

This book shares the brief life of Keith Green, singer and song-writer. It tells of the years of searching for peace during the hippie years and how he and his wife came to a saving faith. Gripped by convictions, they took action and became stewards of their time and resources. As the back of the book reads, "Keith challenged believers to break out of their status quo Christianity and embrace a put-it-all-on-the-line life of faith and action."

I love to read anything about Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of "Uncle Tom's Cabin."
She was a little lady who shook the United States with her moving novel about slavery. As president Lincoln put it, " a small lady who started a big war." The Beecher family had 7 sons all who became ministers, one of them being the famous Henry Ward Beecher. This book was well done.

I have been reading this book to the boys about the pilgrims. With it's colourful illustrations, and quick walk through the pilgrims' story, it is a wonderful book.

Who can go too long without reading a Gordon Korman book?! You are never too old for a good story about Bruno and Boots! Just a warning - do not read in public because you might be seized by fits of laughter no matter how many times you have read it, and do not read it in bed when your husband is trying to sleep:} Even if you try to keep your laughter inside, little giggles burst out and they sound more like snorts - not a good thing.