The Harvest of Grace, Ada's House Series #3, by Cindy Woodsmall

It was easy to be swept into the life of Old Order Amish in this third book, "The Harvest of Grace", from the Ada's House series, by Cindy Woodsmall.

Reeling from an unexpected betrayal, can Sylvia find relief from the echoes of her past…or will they shape her future forever?
Although Sylvia Fisher recognizes that most Old Order Amish women her age spend their hours managing a household and raising babies, she has just one focus—tending and nurturing the herd on her family’s dairy farm. But when a dangerous connection with an old beau forces her to move far from home, she decides to concentrate on a new start and pour her energy into reviving another family’s debt-ridden farm.

I liked the determination and values of the main character, Sylvia.  She struggles with the same issues all of us face each day.  Being honest with others, wondering how our past mistakes can ever be forgiven, and finding hope in the simple things.  When Sylvia takes time out to rest under a tree in the hot summer heat, or notices the strength that comes from generation after generation working to build a dairy farm, or the tenderness she gives to the little kittens she finds in the barn loft, you can almost believe you are there sharing those moments.

Sylvia has to learn to trust her new friends, too.  Aaron, Grey , Cara, Ephraim, Trevor and the other families who all come to Ada's House, will bring you to appreciate traditional Amish events and the daily routines that are part of the Old Order Amish heritage.  I would recommend this book for those who appreciate the Amish community and for those struggling with the issues of forgiveness and God's grace.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of this book, just click here:    http://www.scribd.com/doc/58119222/The-Harvest-of-Grace-by-Cindy-Woodsmall-ch-1-excerpt

Author Bio

Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author whose connection with the Amish community has been featured on ABC Nightline, in The Wall Street Journal, and in other media. She is the author of the Sisters of the Quilt series, The Sound of Sleigh Bells, and a nonfiction work, Plain Wisdom, which was written with her closest Old Order Amish friend. Cindy lives in Georgia with her family. Visit her website at CindyWoodsmall.com
 
 "I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review"

Then Sings My Soul, Book 3, by Robert Morgan

My passion is music, especially hymns of faith.  This future book to review, "Then Sings My Soul", will be a treat to read. 

The long-awaited third installment! In 2003, Robert Morgan released what would become a future classic for over a million readers, a unique book entitled Then Sings My Soul. This collection of the world’s greatest hymns and the stories behind them stirred an entire generation to better understand the heritage of our faith through song.
Now, in the long-awaited third volume of this series, Morgan expands his material to include the great history of worship, the first biblical hymns, biographical sketches of the most interesting composers, and almost 60 generations of hymn singing. The new book also includes a collection of the greatest hymns you’ve never heard, with lead-sheets included.
All of this is in addition to even more standard hymns and the stories of the composers behind them.
Morgan’s conclusion guides the reader into enjoying all of God’s music, blending the old and the new into a symphony of praise that keeps the worship alive for a new generation.
 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"Game One", by Emmett Smith

 After watching this "smooth moves" entertainer, it will be delightful to learn about the man behind the dancer.

Emmitt Smith, the NFL’s all-time leading rusher of the Dallas Cowboys, Dancing with the Stars champion, and successful real-estate investor, outlines the principles that helped him become a winner on and off the football field. In "Game On" he encourages you to live your God-given dream, now. Emmitt reveals that it’s not only vision and talent that propel us toward our dreams, but also a combination of determination, persistence, humility, courage, and faith. In this book, Emmitt gives readers the tools to pursue their dream with all their mind, heart, and soul.

The best part of "Game On" is author Emmitt Smith's ability to draw his reader into his plan (that works!) to dream, set goals, and then build on the strengths God has given you.

I found myself thinking seriously about dreams and goals I still want to achieve.  Not only dreams and goals, but a very important part of this book deals with principles that are determined by our character traits.  Chapter 3 "Follow Your Path", discusses the content of our character.  I was very impressed with this chapter as the author reminds us that in order to be of good character we put the needs of others first, not always an easy thing to do.  Well, I believe that is "Game On"!

Emmitt shares many football stories throughout the book, which would attract many sports enthusiasts to read his inspiring story.  In particular, stories of his time spent with football legend, Walter Payton, deserve to be read.

I have received a complimentary copy of the book for review purposes from Tyndale House

As Silver Refined by Kay Arthur

What Can You Do When Life Doesn't Turn Out Like You Planned?As Silver Refined
Answers to Life's Disappointments, As Silver Refined, written by Kay Arthur, is an eye-opening book which guides you to biblical truths that will help you break that cycle and instead embrace disappointment as the cleansing fire God uses to make you - as silver refined - a reflection of His goodness.
My first reaction was disappointment as I expected to find the answers in a more simplified explanation.  However, the depth of explanation is extensive, accurate, and extremely well presented.  As I read through each chapter I concluded how important this book is for individual study or a small support group.  It would be wise to take time to digest the wealth of information provided by Mrs. Arthur.
Now for the information provided.
Take Courage! How? That's what this book is about! How to handle life's disappointments God's way OR fall into the awful pit of despair.
My favorite part of this book was understanding meekness.  "Meekness is the key to acting rather than reacting . . . . the key to meekness is understanding the sovereignty and the character of God." (page 152) I hope you will read this book for this reason alone.
The companion study guide provided at the end of the book would be very beneficial to the application of each topic addressed.  Topics include failure, regrets, stress, pain and the positive scripture based topics of courage, joy, hope, victory and restoration. 
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

The Encounter, by Stephen Arterburn

The Encounter, a unique new book, kept my attention and it's a quick-read book that packs a powerful punch.  Stephen Arterburn, best-selling author and counselor, has an excellent knack for storytelling with the ability to give the reader the desire to think about how the story might apply to one's personal life.  If you've had an encounter such as this, you'll recognize the theme of forgiveness.


The Encounter, is a moving parable involving Jonathan Rush, a wealthy and famous entrepreneur, who is tortured by bitterness toward his mother who abandoned him when he was four. He travels to Alaska to find her but instead meets an enigmatic old woman known only as Mercy.  Mercy has the information he needs but is strangely reluctant to talk to him. Somehow Jonathan must find a way to persuade a frightened woman to unlock the secrets of his past.


The end result is a healthy new way to look at life with an ability to share hope with others for the future. Healing is possible but requires truth, acceptance, and forgiveness, including of oneself.

I would highly recommend this book for young teens through adults.

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Just In Case You Ever Wonder by Max Lucado

Just In Case You Ever Wonder, written by Max Lucado,  is now sitting on my "permanent books" shelf.  This one is a keeper and I'll read it as often as possible to my grandchildren.

The cover illustration, by Toni Goffe, caught my eye before I even opened this book.  Every child wishes for this scene with their parent and the story, Just In Case Your Ever Wonder will be a favorite for your child or grandchild to read again and again.

The affirmations on each page give hope for each of us.  Knowing that you'll always be loved, always be hugged, always have someone on your side, will help children and adults cope with life's ups and downs.

Each page of this hard-cover book are filled with gentle, soft-colored illustrations that give that warm, fuzzy feeling.  I believe I would read this book to a child at any age.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones

I stayed up until midnight so I could get a free copy of this book to review for you!  I chose this book for it's setting, "Ireland", and the cover was cute.  Now I'm not usually influenced by such things, but it's time I gave fiction a chance.

Grief brought Finley to Ireland.  Finley Sinclair is not your typical eighteen-year-old. She’s witty, tough, and driven. With an upcoming interview at the Manhattan music conservatory, Finley needs to compose her audition piece. But her creativity disappeared with the death of her older brother, Will.  She decides to study abroad in Ireland so she can follow Will’s travel journal. It’s the place he felt closest to God.

So, I do like this book for several reasons.  Finely has several serious issues in her life; grief, an eating disorder, acceptance of her own abilities, possible romance.  Young women can identify with one or more of the elements in this story and perhaps find their own solutions.  There You'll Find Me reads easily.  If you want to "escape" to Ireland, this is a book for you.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Doctor's Lady, by Judy Hedlund - Review Coming Soon!

When Bethany House Publishers listed this book as a choice, the story of missions got my interest. Come back soon to read my review.

Priscilla White knows she'll never be a wife or mother and feels God's call to the mission field in India. Dr. Eli Ernest is back from Oregon Country only long enough to raise awareness of missions to the natives before heading out West once more. But then Priscilla and Eli both receive news from the mission board: No longer will they send unmarried men and women into the field.
Left scrambling for options, the two realize the other might be the answer to their needs. Priscilla and Eli agree to a partnership, a marriage in name only that will allow them to follow God's leading into the mission field. But as they journey west, this decision will be tested by the hardships of the trip and by the unexpected turnings of their hearts.

One Call Away - A Memoir

One Call Away Answering Life's Challenges with Unshakable Faith

By Brenda Warner with Jennifer Schuchmann 

Published by Thomas Nelson

One Call Away is the inspiring story of a woman who has prevailed through many of the circumstances that discourage women: tragedy, poverty, betrayal, and humiliation. But unlike most women, her life has been on display in the media.
Brenda’s faith and God’s strength enable her to face challenge after challenge: an accident that leaves her son blind and brain damaged, a crumbling marriage, a tornado that kills her parents, a new relationship with promising football player Kurt Warner, and the pressures his sudden success brings to their growing family.

Her dreams haven’t materialized as she had imagined, but Brenda has found that God has a much bigger plan for her. Conversational and candid, One Call Away invites readers facing their own difficulties to trust God and discover hope in the future.

My main reason to recommend this book is the fact that I admire Brenda's resolve to continue to move forward with her life, as each chapter of the book tells another major event that could cause most individuals to give up.  The second reason I would share this book with others is the fact that Brenda, Kurt, and their entire family are committed to helping others.  Through their work with First Things First Foundation, and Brenda's compassion for the babies she rocks at a local rehabilitation hospital where she volunteers, those are things that I believe matter in life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Surprised by Oxford - A Memoir

I was eager to receive this intriguing book, by Carolyn Weber, so I'm excited to share my thoughts with you.

A girl-meets-God style memoir of an agnostic who, through her surprising opportunity to study at Oxford, comes to a dynamic personal faith in God.
Carolyn Weber arrives for graduate study at Oxford University a feminist from a loving but broken family, suspicious of men and intellectually hostile to all things religious. As she grapples with her God-shaped void alongside the friends, classmates, and professors she meets, she tackles big questions in search of love and a life that matters.
This savvy, beautifully written, credible account of Christian conversion follows the calendar and events of the school year as it entertains, informs, and promises to engage even the most skeptical and unlikely reader.

"Keep your spoon in the cup and you won't crack" was a quote from one of Carolyn's friends, Rachel, who shared her wisdom with regard to living life in the world and with God.  I liked that thought.  In fact, I liked this book so much I found the author's frank questions, her developing relationships with her new friends at Oxford, and most of all her slow, yet steady discovery of her own personal faith so soothing and calming. 

Within this easy-to-read memoir is a second relationship with TDH, who first introduced Carolyn to the question of "I wondered, for context, what kind of a religious background, if any, you grew up with?"  and then he asked, "Who is God to you? I'd really like to know." 

The exploration of doubts and the final acceptance of grace from God never ceases to bring me tears of joy.  If I did not have a personal faith with my Jesus, this book would certainly cause me to explore the same areas Carolyn Weber describes so honestly. I will keep this book to share with others who may need to be inspired or who are seeking answers in this troubled world.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Surviving Your SERENGETI 7 Skills to Master Business and Life

Surviving Your Serengeti is an adventure fable providing a captivating metaphor on how everyone can 

triumph over life’s challenges by each using their unique innate skills.

What a super "quick-read" book!  First,the cover caught my eye!
This fable of self-discovery will instantly draw you into the journey of Sean and Ashley Spencer's three day trip to Africa's Serengeti.


Sean's old friend, Zachariah Maekna, allows them to accompany him to witness survival skills displayed by seven animals that thrive in the extreme, constantly changing conditions of the beautiful Serengeti.


What I enjoyed most in this fable was the excitement provided in each chapter as the characters observed nature's reality in one of the most difficult places on earth.  I became curious to read the strength of each animal and how each trait is translated into the world of business and our personal lives.


I also liked the concise summary of the unique survival skill possessed by wildlife in the Serengeti at the end of each chapter.  An added bonus was the self-discovery opportunity suggestion provided by following the quick online quiz at www.WhatAnimalAmI.com.  Aren't you just a bit curious to read and discover what survival skill you possess?  I highly recommend this book.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

How To Write A Book Proposal newly updated & revised!

How to Write a Book Proposal is THE resource for getting your work published.  This newly revised edition of the Writer's Digest Books classic outlines how to create an effective, nonfiction book proposal in a clear, step-by-step manner.  Noted agent and author Michael Larsen also provides insider insights into the publishing industry as well as a plethora of newly updated information, including updated trend information, new sample proposals, and expanded instructions for creating outlines.

My original purpose in reviewing this book was to satisfy my own curiosity on exactly what is involved in writing a book.  The title, "How to Write a Book Proposal", made me wonder if writing your own book might be the easy part of becoming a published author.

Guess what?!  If you are planning to see your dream come true of becoming a published writer, please consider investing in this extremely valuable resource. "If you have a salable idea and you prove that you can write it, this book can help you launch your career", says Michael Larsen.  

My favorite part of his book:  The way every chapter is designed to access a defined topic including an attractive highlighted title page, a text box with "The Golden Rule", numerous Hot Tips! throughout, and a short summary at the end of each chapter.

I'm so impressed with this valuable book, I'm curious once again:  "Maybe I can become a writer?"  With this resource, "How to Write a Book Proposal", I believe I can succeed. 

Finally, I like this book so much that I will not loan it out to anyone! It's like taking an expensive "how-to" course the economical way.  And the instructor is extremely experienced!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Horse Dreams Backyard Horses

Do you have a daughter who loves horses?

The first book in Dandi Daley Mackall's new Backyard Horses series brought back memories of wishing for my own horse.

Ellie James, a fourth grader with a great imagination, spends a lot of time daydreaming about owning a black stallion show horse and winning trophies in the horse show.  The answer to all her dreams and prayers gallops into her life and it will surprise you at the dramatic turn of events.

I believe all elementary readers will find Ellie James to be honest and yet devoted to animals, especially horses. 
Also, each chapter's title includes the sign language spelling - an especially nice addition.  You'll need to read the story to understand the significance of this feature.

I would highly recommend this book and I'm looking forward to the next  book in the series, Cowboy Colt.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes from Tyndale House.

SMALL is big

This "small" book describes the current unleashing of the big impact of intentionally small churches.  Tony & Felicity Dale and George Barna bring their first-hand experience of how Small Churches can make a huge impact worldwide.  Real ministry cannot be measured by numbers in God's Church as the Dales relate how the small, simple, easily reproducible churches are multiplying and spreading God's Kingdom.  Neighborhoods, communities, and individual lives are being transformed by this simple, small church modeled after the early New Testament church.

I believe anyone with a passion for missions would find this book of great interest.  At first I was skeptical about the book's claim that the simple church is the modern Reformation of the church.  I chose not to give up on the authors' claims and continued with an open mind to review the examples, personal stories, and their belief that the small, simple church is growing so rapidly.  I had the impression that the traditional church would become extinct soon.  However, later in the book, we are told of several large churches that are adopting simple churches as part of their ministry. 

The book gives numerous examples of simple churches, and how they began.  Unless you know about the early New Testament churches and their simple concept, it would be somewhat challenging to start your own simple church without the direction of the leadership training.  The book does offer contact information for anyone interested in learning more about simple churches.

I think the Simple Church described in this book has real merit, especially for many who find large churches too structured.  Simple Church, according to "SMALL is big", provides a much more intimate setting, with the belief that many small churches, meeting the needs of it's individuals, is more accurately following the scriptures.
Book disclaimer: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book or ARC.

Johann Sebastian Bach Christian Encounters Series By Rick Marschall

"History's supreme music maker, Johann Sebastian Bach".
There is no question after reading this detailed biography, written by Rick Marschall, that you will develop a deep respect and appreciation for J.S. Bach's many, many contributions to music.

From a survey of Bach's family and its deep Christian roots to a behind-the-scenes look at how he crafted his masterpieces, this book paints a picture of an astonishing figure and his relationship with his God.

I recommend this book for those who seek to know Johann Sebastian Bach through his contributions to music and how his devotion to God allowed him to be, as Marschall wrote, . . .  "Bach was more than a mere devout composer of clever music.  He was an evangelist who used music."

I have always felt the deep emotion of Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, and after reading this book, I have a clearer understanding why this piece fills me with a sense of purity and the holiness of  Christ.

The book includes many detailed historical facts regarding the church during Bach's lifetime.  The reader is allowed to develop a better understanding of the 18th century Lutheran church.  We learn why Bach has often been referred to as "The Fifth Evangelist."

Bach's first instrument was the organ, which was his monumental achievement, both in his famous works and technical accomplishments.

In addition to church history and Bach's many musical modes and compositions, the book includes the personal life of Bach.  He was an extremely devoted husband; his first wife, Maria died thirteen years after they were married and he then married Anna Magdalena Wiilcken.  He was the father of twenty children, of whom ten survived to adulthood .

Finally, the book concludes with three helpful Appendix, his family, his chronology, and the annotated glossary of musical terms and forms used by Bach.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Fight of Our Lives by William J. Bennett & Seth Leibsohn

It's a must-read book!  Intense and factual!  It's quick reading.

Knowing the Enemy, Speaking the Truth & Choosing to Win the War Against Radical Islam.
The Fight of Our Lives helps readers refocus, to reframe and understand the threats we face.  By surveying and explaining the current scene, Bennett and Leibsohn point the way to a future in which our enemies are properly acknowledged and firmly opposed.
Throughout the book, we are presented with documented facts pertaining to our country's leadership, within the government and the military, regarding the "preferred" terminology for expressing the war on terrorism, the conflicts in the Middle East, and how our actions and response to terrorism is affecting and will affect this country in the very near future.

My first impression is to request all secondary history teachers require their students to read and discuss this book.  Our youth should be provided with both sides of this urgent issue - the war on terrorism, or as the current administration refers to as 'Overseas Contingency Operation'. Then, after reading the book, I concurred with the authors that "having denied our children an understanding, knowledge, and appreciation for our Western and American ethics and history" in many of our schools, this book would not be read by many of our youth today.  Thus, I would go so far as to suggest that copies of this book be made available, without cost, to all Americans.

The Fight of Our Lives is a wake-up call for the general public.  We are in the fight of our lives because 1) we need to remind ourselves this is a fight against terrorism, unlike any other war we've been involved in before; 2) know what we should do; and most importantly, 3) know  who we need to be.

Our political leadership has crumbled in the area of foreign diplomacy.  Instead of condemning the leaders of countries who have made clear their intention to obliterate everything we value, we have leadership that appeases them. "The thought seems to be that if we speak nicely of Islam and ignore the terrorism it can produce, then Islamists will respect us more or lay down their swords." 

The lack of moral clarity is a real issue in this country and that fact is made evident over and over in this truthful book.  "Where once our law and culture were based on assigning blame on a perpetrator of wrong, and personal responsibility was commonplace (as well as common sense), a new psychology has taken hold in Western culture."  Our children are learning to be politically correct instead of defending what is right and wrong.  Instead of being concerned about offending someone by what we say, we should be denouncing those who would murder innocent men, women and children.

I am grateful that Mr. Bennett and Mr. Leibsohn have put into writing what they know is truth.  If we are to prevail the war on terrorism, we must begin the great relearning.  We must begin first by knowing how our own freedom has been won.  We need to call good and evil by their proper names - to know the enemy as the enemy.  To "let the doublespeak and nonspeak end and the great relearning and rededication begin."

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

We Be BIG by Rick Burgess and Bill "Bubba" Bussey

We Be BIG is a true story based on the lives of two funny men, Rick Burgess and Bill "Bubba" Bussey, radio entertainers on an Alabama morning talk show.  They each share of growing up with a passion for entertainment and the technical features of radio.  The story continues with their eventual collaboration of talents as they have become a popular, conservative, red-neck flavored, morning-commute radio show.

"We Be BIG" kept my attention.  In fact, after finishing the book, I logged onto their website and enjoyed their morning program streaming live on Q102.  Years ago my younger brother told me of his favorite radio show with these two guys, Rick and Bubba.  Now I understand where he got his funny, true stories!  He proved the belief told in the book that listeners respond to people who are 'real' on the radio. 

My biggest impression of the book was how two men followed their beliefs.  They worked very hard, invented extremely clever marketing tools and made true-life events funny.  How American is that!

One of my favorite stories, "Save Sand Mountain Sam", tells of the rescue of a pitiful possum.  Rick and Bubba used that possum promotion to build radio ratings and it worked.

They saved the most important part of the book toward the end as they shared how God has directed and continues to direct their lives, on the radio, and in their personal lives.

This book will make you laugh, as well as cry.  Most of all you will be encouraged to continue to trust God to show you how to make choices in your life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

A New Redesigned Mrs. O

At a time when life is supposed to be predictable, or supposedly a life-style consisting of ideas I grew up to believe would be a part of my life now, I'm preparing to explore another venture.  Incorporating the joy of reading with the potential to submit my impressions of the most current book provided to me by the Thomas Nelson publishers is now a new "occupation".  Now that's what I call cool!