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.”