Fire of the Raging Dragon, The Pacific Rim Series

"In the very near future, China, now the world’s largest industrial producer and consumer of Mideast Oil, passes a law that all new cars manufactured in that nation will be operated on natural gas. Beneath the floor of the South China Sea, around the contested Spratly Islands, billions of gallons of natural gas wait to be mined. "

Bestselling author Don Brown has built a loyal fan base by writing what he knows best: thrillers with heart. A former Navy JAG officer and action-officer at the Pentagon, Brown pens action-packed plots and finely-drawn characters that are credible and compelling.

In Fire of the Raging Dragon -the second book in Brown's bestselling Pacific Rim Series-Stephanie Surber is stationed on board a submarine tender in the South China Sea when a naval war breaks out. After a gruesome discovery escalates America's involvement, Stephanie's father, U.S. President Douglas Surber, must choose to take a stand against evil … or save the life of his daughter.

This is my first book by action author, Don Brown, and I'm his newest fan.   It is a political thriller like no other. Don, who served five years in the U.S. Navy, writes a fast-paced book making good use of his knowledge about the military and their operations. This political thriller uses sub-headings as the storyline develops it's plots and subplots with twists and turns that begin to challenge what part of the story I'm reading, but yet I couldn't put the book down. I like a book that offers fairly accurate information and based on the author's background, his descriptions of the military and political situations throughout the story are guaranteed to engage any reader right to the conclusion.  Also interesting is the background of history for both sides in the conflict. Readers won't miss the lack of profanity since the idea that this situation could actually occur today are described by an author whose knowledge of current affiars make this a thriller of a book! I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy suspense and action.

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 I was not compensated for this review and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are my own.

10 Christians Everyone Should Know

Lives of the Faithful & What They Mean To You, by John Perry, editor, is a biography lover's book.

Jane Austen, Sergeant York, Saint Patrick—What did they have in common?  “It would be almost impossible to imagine ten people more different from each other than these,” editor John Perry says. “This [is] the first truth of Christian living: anybody, anywhere can be a champion of the faith, an example and inspiration to all who follow.”

There’s no dry biography here, though. Each story teems with fresh insight. D. L. Moody did some of his most powerful evangelizing by befriending ragged street children in Chicago. William F. Buckley never delivered a sermon, yet a Christian worldview informed his erudite, witty, output in print and broadcasting. To compose her poems, Anne Bradstreet had to understand science, history, the Bible, and literature, not to mention the political scene in both Massachusetts and England. You’ll look with new eyes, also, on the lives of George Washington Carver, Jane Austen, Galileo, Johann Sebastian Bach, Sergeant York, John Bunyan, and Saint Patrick. You might think you know their stories . . . but you don’t. Not yet.

So after reading their stories, these 10 folks had a common thread - their faith in God.  The lessons learned in how they chose to live their lives may help you find the determination, the courage, the energy, to devote your life to living the way God needs you to live.  We need more books to share the simple, condensed stories of people that set the example of never giving up, of helping others before themselves, of making a positive difference wherever we live.
I did like this book and will recommend it to all ages.  I would also recommend this nifty little book for homeschool or study groups, or for anyone seeking encouragement in the Christian walk.
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.” 

Fully Alive Lighten Up and Live - A Journey that Will Change Your Life

Be prepared to get up and get moving!

I first heard the name Ken Davis while listening to his daily radio spot, "Lighten Up And Live" - and his humorous stories remind us to not take life so seriously.
Now, the message he brings in Fully Alive is a real life-changer, if you decide to make that choice.
A fine speaker and author, Ken Davis, has presented a positive challenge for all of us, if you're in your 20's or your 80's, to overcome our fears, "function at the capacity we were created for in every area of life, and not squander what God has given each of us."

With that summary, let me share how this book has encouraged me with the hope that I can still accomplish the dreams I've had and that I can still explore and achieve new experiences.  At an age when many consider it time to "slow down" or "retire", I know that is not the case, especially when Ken Davis tells us he is 65 and he's going to continue climbing mountains, finishing triathlons, or building a tree house for his grandchildren.

There are more self-help books and articles on the market than I want to count,  so when Ken invites me to walk with him on a journey, along a road of heartache and adventure to a place he calls "the land of the living,"  and discover what may be missing in our lives, I promise you'll want to get up and get moving.

A poignant and entertaining storyteller, Davis points out the practical steps necessary to live this way – everything from lightening up to taking a quality of life assessment, to overcoming trials – while also revealing the power of Christ's resurrection available for each of us.

Ken offers to take care of ourselves physically, mentally and spiritually.  So many books and speakers focus on one or two of these aspects of caring for ourselves.  This book covers it all, and it reads quickly.  In fact, I need to finish this review and get going - it's time for my hour of physical care.  

One final note.  Ken's book is one to read, give as a gift, and tell others how it gets you up out of your chair and moving.   I give this a full 5 stars!

Disclosure of Material Connection: 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 am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."Fully AliveFully Alive

Mondays with My Old Pastor

Mondays with My Old Pastor has been a real treat to read and so my review will reflect positive thoughts.  The book is the true story of a a totally burned-out young pastor who reignites his faith and gathers wisdom for life while spending successive Mondays with an eighty-three-year-old pastor.

"Deep inside in some uncertain part of my soul persisted this strange exhaustion that was difficult to explain and hard to endure," writes pastor and author José Luis Navajo. Thinking of quitting the ministry, Navajo doesn't know where to turn until he begins meeting with a seasoned man of the cloth—his "old pastor"—who, through successive Monday visits, offers a legacy of wisdom in the form of 15 unique principles."

I believe this book will benefit anyone who questions their purpose in life, or feels the frustrations experienced daily.  It's a wonderful book to inspire and restore hope.   

With 15 Monday visits shared in this brief little book, I believe my favorite is on the 10th Monday.  His Old Pastor shares this:  Simply make room for Him in your daily life.  I like that.  When I act on that simple statement, my day  goes well.  
I'll share one more thoughtful treasure:  Sit everyday at the feet of Jesus, and then Tell the world what you have seen.  That would make the world brighter.  
I hope I've shared enough that you'll want to read this moving, beautifully written account of Navajo's journey from desperation to rejuvenation.  In lyrical prose, he shares the personal anecdotes, fables, and deep spiritual insights offered by the old pastor and his wife.   By turns funny, heartbreaking, and thought provoking, Mondays with My Old Pastor is a comfort to anyone who struggles in his or her walk with God.   
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 Coming Revolution, by Dr. Richard G. Lee

With an intensity of stirring emotions, this next BookSneeze review has drawn me to a stronger degree of interest in our current American political stage.
Dr. Richard G. Lee has written "The Coming Revolution",   describing America’s powerful past and then revealing a nation of people who  are willing to stand up for the original principles of our country and how to protect our own personal and national freedom.

Using this country's rich heritage of liberty and democracy as a roadmap toward where we could be headed, Dr. Lee brings thoughtful clarity to the ever-growing probability of such a revolution in America; illuminating the important reminder that the voices of every revolution have been-and always will be-the ordinary everyman.

"A powerful reminder about why America is great and worth fighting for."

-Lt. Colonel Oliver L. North, USMC (Ret.)

"Within this book Dr. Richard Lee clearly reveals how the intolerable conditions being forced upon the American people by Washington's current administration will lead to a certain and powerful explosion of predictable consequences."

-Michael Reagan

What impressed me as I read this book, was Dr. Lee's description of our public education system's negligence and failure to teach our children the complete facts of our country's heritage.  This is a strong statement and yet I have actually witnessed it first-hand as I questioned the lack of American history taught in our public school.


Another section of the book may challenge your knowledge on how the legacy of The Great Awakening shaped the patriots of the American Revolution.  You can read the 14 principles in detail in Chapter 4, "The Birth of the American Spirit".  


Throughout the book are details of how this country began originally, what our country's current trend could be moving toward (socialism?), and finally what we can do as individuals to restore and inspire patriotism and pride in America!  The American Spirit is what makes this country so great.  I would recommend this book for anyone living in this country, whether you are an American citizen or not.


Remembering what our forefathers endured, I know this book can inspire each reader to take a positive approach and not be afraid to stand up and protect our freedom.  Reading The Coming Revolution confirms the belief that protecting our personal and national freedom comes with a price.  


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.” 

Then Sings My Soul: The Story of Our Songs: Drawing Strength from the Great Hymns of Our Faith, Book 3

Long-awaited third installment has arrived!
It was an honor to review this special book for the simple reason that I love the great hymns.  Their stories have a depth that speaks to my soul.  Thank you, Robert Morgan, for continuing the series.

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.

I read this book in stages so I could digest the story of each hymn.  The book has a permanent place in my music library, as I teach piano and have had the privilege of singing and playing almost all of the hymns in this book throughout my lifetime.

Mr. Morgan's expanded stories of six hymns in Part 3 will bring a brighter appreciation for those songs.  Wait until you read more of the story behind "It Is Well With My Soul"!!!

Finally, I'd like to applaud the author's opinion of Why We Must Embrace Interwoven Worship.  I completely agree with his thoughts concerning how we will lose a heritage with a rich legacy of the "great cloud of witnesses" who have preceded us.  If you attend any church, and sing praise choruses or old hymns, please take the time to read his thoughts.  I would encourage all of us to extend an open mind to the new and the old songs of the church.

With that said, I recommend this book for all music lovers, so that you have a richer knowledge of an important element in music. 

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.” 

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.”