Real-Life Romance: Inspiring Stories to Help You Believe in True Love by Rhonda Stoppe

Real-Life Romance: Inspiring Stories to Help You Believe in True Love

by Rhonda Stoppe

  I was intrigued from the first moment I heard of this newly-published book by Rhonda Stoppe. An entire book of not only true, real-life but also faith-filled romance stories? Definitely yes! Like I just said, the quality of this book doesn't just lie in the stories but in the reoccurring theme of God's grace and purpose weaving each story together. The author of this book has skillfully told each couple's love story with the point of pointing it  back to God. As I read each account, I was encouraged in many ways. Every story is different, and not all are tidy and perfect. As a matter of fact, just as in real life, many of the stories were messy and unexpected. But it is fascinating to read how God made things work together for His glory. There is something in this book for everyone in every season of life, whether married or single. The writing style is not phenomenal however I was grateful for the content and am glad I read this book!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Do You Believe in True Love?

In a world of broken relationships and hurting people, it can seem like all we ever see is heartache—that marriages are doomed from the start and romance isn't worth the risk. 

But heart-fluttering, long-lasting love is all around us...we just have to look for it! 

This collection of beautiful, real-life accounts will bring laughter and tears as you enjoy each story of ordinary people who found extraordinary love. Page after page, you will find inspiration to:

rekindle the romance in your love storytrust in God's providence and timingfaithfully hope for your own happily-ever-aftercelebrate true romancebelieve in life-long love

Don't let the world define romance for you! See how God is at work in the hearts of His people—knitting together hearts in a love that forever endures.

A Woman Overwhelmed: Finding God in the Messes of Life by Hayley DiMarco

A Woman Overwhelmed: Finding God in the Messes of Life

by Hayley DiMarco

I just finished reading this book and really benefited from it. The author's honesty and openness definitely helped me to face my own mind and heart concerning life. I was surprised by how similar I am to this author. This book was easy to read, not too long yet full of truths and worthy of thinking over. I liked how each chapter ended with ''thoughts to ponder'' and I look forward to re-reading it as a daily or weekly book study. The author, Hayley DiMarco is a best-selling writer and I certainly will read more of her books from now on! Not only does she speak from experience and with sound Biblical truth, she writes with a great sense of humour which I enjoyed. I highly recommend this book for any woman who consistently feels overwhelmed and/or out of control of life! 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

"A Woman Overwhelmed" is a phrase with which many women can relate. But what would happen if we could see the insanity in our pace and embrace our overwhelming God?

There is a reason they say that a woman's work is never done-- because it isn't! As women, we often are overwhelmed by the demands and circumstances of life, resulting in stress, fear, worry, impatience, fatigue, frustration, and even depression. The truth is that we were created to be overwhelmed . . . not by life but by God! When we learn to be overwhelmed by God, the fruit in our lives goes from rotten to fragrant--filling our days with peace, hope, love, and joy.

In A Woman Overwhelmed, best-selling author Hayley DiMarco shares biblical insights and personal stories to offer a glimpse at the comedy of an overwhelmed life while encouraging us to discover the depths and heights of God's love and power

Be empowered to find freedom in becoming overwhelmed with who God is--by learning to focus on what we know about God so that we can hold onto faith even when it seems that all is lost. For it is when an overwhelmed woman gives up the mission of me and exchanges it for the mission of God that being overwhelmed becomes a good thing.

Choose to bask in the abundance of the Father instead of the abundance of life as his unfathomable depths can surely replace our fathomable messes.

Hiding From The Kids in My Prayer Closet by Jessica Kastner

Hiding From The Kids in My Prayer Closet by Jessica Kastner

 This is one of the most humorous and real books on motherhood I have ever read! Throughout the whole book, I laughed aloud. Yet I also was impressed that each chapter finishes with deeper thoughts and applications. The author seems to have a balanced perspective on life and motherhood! She knows (for the most part- none of us are perfect!) when to laugh and when to ponder what God is teaching her.

Personally, I could never relate to Jessica's personality motherhood-wise. Sound confusing? Simply: Jessica never dreamed of getting married and having babies and wasn't really attracted by infants or children. I am quite the opposite. My 7th birthday party was a cute ''baby shower'' theme, with things for my baby doll. Somehow, I've always felt the need to marry and have children. Nevertheless, I was able to chuckle over Jessica's unusual character. I loved how she allowed God to change her and make her a fun and loving mom. In this book, she is honest and humble and gives mothers a new perspective on what parenting is all about.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Finding grace and laughter when motherhood gets real

Soon after Jessica Kastner became a mother, she wondered if she was the only mom who found pretend play more boring than watching playdough harden and who dreaded yet another friend's Instagram post of homemade deliciousness.

In Hiding from My Kids in the Prayer Closet, Kastner shares her experience as an "unmom"-a mom who loves her kids more than she loves the daily experience of mothering. She helps readers laugh at the ridiculous, delight in the unpredictable, and enjoy being the mothers God made them to be.

Jessica Kastner is an award-winning journalist and a contributor for the Christian Broadcasting Network's CBN.com, Beliefnet.com, and the Huffington Post's Christianity blog. As Connecticut's coordinator for Straight Ahead Ministries, she shares God's message of hope by leading Bible studies in juvenile detention centers. When she's not on the trampoline with her three boys in Connecticut, Jessica shares her unapologetically "real" commentary on the Christian life at www.JessicaKastner.com.

I'll Push You: A Journey of 500 Miles, Two Best Friends, and One Wheelchair by Patrick Gray/Justin Skeesuck

I'll Push You: A Journey of 500 Miles, Two Best Friends, and One Wheelchair

by Patrick Gray, Justin Skeesuck

   From the moment I read the subtitle of this book, I knew it would be a rare and interesting read. This is an account written by both Justin and Patrick of their unusual and incredible trip together on the 500-mile trek called the Camino de Santiago. The incredible factor? Justin is wheel-chair bound yet was able to traverse the total 500-miles with the help of his childhood best friend Patrick as well as many other volunteers met along the journey. This is an extremely interesting and oftentimes humorous account. I appreciated how Patrick included his own spiritual growth which occurred along the trail. What Patrick learned about himself and the way he treated his wife and children back home was life-changing and I'm so glad it was described in the pages of this book.

Personally, I didn't care for a lot of the humour in this book. But what can you say when it's two guys writing such an account? Apart from that, it was a very good book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Two best friends, 500 miles, one wheelchair, and the challenge of a lifetime.
Friendship takes on new meaning in this true story of Justin and Patrick, born less than two days apart in the same hospital. Best friends their whole lives, they grew up together, went to school together, and were best man in each other's weddings. When Justin was diagnosed with a neuromuscular disease that robbed him of the use of his arms and legs, Patrick was there, helping to feed and care for him in ways he'd never imagined. Determined to live life to the fullest, the friends refused to give into despair or let physical limitations control what was possible for Justin.

So when Justin heard about the Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile trek through Spain, he wondered aloud to Patrick whether the two of them could ever do it. Patrick's immediate response was: "I'll push you."

I'll Push You is the real-life story of this incredible journey. A travel adventure full of love, humor, and spiritual truth, it exemplifies what every friendship is meant to be and shows what it means to never find yourself alone. You'll discover how love and faith can push past all limits--and make us the best versions of ourselves.

This Life I Live by Rory Feek

This Life I Live: One Man's Extraordinary, Ordinary Life and the Woman Who Changed It Forever

by Rory Feek

The love story that captured the heart of the nation

Joey and Rory Feek were enjoying a steadily growing fan base in country music when Joey was diagnosed unexpectedly with a rapidly spreading cancer. This vibrant and beautiful young woman would soon be on a unique journey for which no one is ever fully prepared. Her husband, Rory, and children, Heidi, Hopie, and Indiana, were beside her each step of the way. Rory, a prolific songwriter, entrepreneur, farmer, and overall tender man, has seen God bless his life in countless unexpected ways and had started a blog, thislifeilive.com, not really knowing its purpose other than he needed to write. That purpose soon became clearer when Joey’s cancer battle hit.

By inviting so many into the final months of Joey’s life, this astounding couple captured the hearts of millions with their powerful love story, the manner in which they were handling the diagnosis, and the inspiring simple way they had chosen to live their lives.

In this vulnerable book, Rory takes us into his own challenging life story and shows what can happen when God brings both his presence and the right companion into our lives. He also gives never-before-revealed details on what he calls “the long goodbye,” the blessing of being able to know that life is going to end and taking advantage of it. Feek shows how we all are actually there already and how we can learn to live that way every day. He then goes into detail toward the end of the book on what it’s like to try to move on with your life once you’ve “had it all.”  

 I had never heard of Rory and Joey Feek (having only become interested in country-style music recently) so I began this autobiography/memoir excited to get to know this couple. From the first few chapters, I was deeply interested. As I continued in the book, I couldn't wait to listen to their music and watch their videos. This book is a remarkable and touching story. But it is more than that. It is a wonderful testimony to God's work of salvation in Rory's life and the strength and faith which resulted. I love how this book shows a distinct Before and After. And it is obvious that the Rory in the Before was a totally different man than the Rory in the After. His testimony of salvation is bold and victorious. And he has so much joy and hope even after the loss of his beautiful and loving wife Joey. This book is a must-read. Men and women alike will love and learn from the story in this new book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

review of childrens' book Good Good Father by Chris Tomlin, Pat Barrett

Good Good Father

by Chris Tomlin, Pat Barrett

   This is a wonderful little book which children will love. The size of this hardcover book is good for children and the sturdy pages perfect for energetic little hands. Children will love the beautifully and classically done illustrations. They will follow along with the story which has spiritual worth as well as literary.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

You’ve heard a thousand stories of what the good King is like. Now discover His great love for your child!


Grammy Award-winning music artist, Chris Tomlin, and Pat Barrett (Housefires), team up to tell the story of a little bear named Tucker whose life and townspeople are forever changed when they learn just how great the King’s love is for them. When Tucker’s friends need help, he goes to see the King who lives in a castle where the door is always open.


Tucker wants to take the perfect gift to the King in hopes he will be convinced to help. Along the way, Tucker encounters a variety of humorous animals filled with advice who leave him confused about what the King is like. He doubts whether the King would be willing to help. Just as Tucker is ready to give up, he meets the King who runs to him with open arms offering love, acceptance, and help.

My review of the book Colors of Goodbye by September Vaudrey

Colors of Goodbye: A Memoir of Holding On, Letting Go, and Reclaiming Joy in the Wake of Loss

by September Vaudrey

What happens "after" the worst happens?
Before May 31, 2008, September Vaudrey's life was beautiful. But on that day, with one phone call from the ER, her whole world--everything she knew and believed--was shaken to the core. Katie, her 19-year-old artist daughter, had been in a car accident and would not survive. How does a family live in the wake of devastating tragedy? When darkness colors every moment, is it possible to find light? Can God still be good, even after goodbye?

  How can my words describe the beauty and value of this book? From the first chapter, I knew this book would be a favourite of mine. As I read, my first impression was not unfounded. This book really, really touched my heart. As I read the saga within, my heart ached for the family who lost their beloved and unforgettable 19-year old Katie! Yet, even while my heart was weeping, I sensed the great peace and joy that this family had, which can only come from a relationship with Jesus Christ! Since this book is penned by the mother of Katie, it is raw and real. I have never experienced loss like this and I want to prepare my heart and faith for such a time. So, I read books like this and come away feeling amazed by the faith God gives His children in times of grief. I highly, highly recommend this book for everyone- man or woman, untouched or shadowed by trials. Whether God has already given you strength to make it through a hard time, or you have no idea how you're going to get through another day, you need to read this book. 

The author, September Vaudrey is incredibly honest and open. Yet, at the same time she is not self-absorbed, proud or asking for pity. She writes- in a beautiful style- the whole truth of her and her family's time of grief and it really gives a picture of true sorrow and the love God bestows on them to get them through it. Do not miss this beautiful and God-glorifying book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

 

2016 Book review: Strong and Kind by Korie Robertson

Strong and Kind: And Other Important Character Traits Your Child Needs to Succeed

by Korie Robertson, Chrys Howard, Willie Robertson 

I am always so excited when I see another Robertson book has been published! And of course I am delighted that I get to read and review it before it even comes out in book stores!
When I saw Strong and Kind available to review, I grabbed it up immediately!
I began reading it one evening and nearly finished it in one sitting- it was that good!
Of course, I hope to reread it more slowly and thoughtfully, but initially I love to just devour good books. I was still able to glean so much from the chapters of this book. And me not even a parent! The lessons I learned were wonderful for me as an older sibling as well as me as a person. Seriously- many of the thoughts and wisdom in this book were enough to make me chide myself for my disrespect and unloving attitudes towards my elders and friends! So, my conclusion is that whether you are a parent or not, this book will definitely help you! 

For parents, I highly, highly recommend this book. The authors are both firm and kind in their advice. They understand parenthood and they understand children and love them for who they are. But they also know from experience how to raise children to become mature, responsible adults and therefore parents should trust the Biblical advice they present in this new book! 

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

A Cup of Dust: a Novel of the Dust Bowl by Susie Finkbeiner

A Cup of Dust: a Novel of the Dust Bowl

by Susie Finkbeiner

   A gripping story; believable and heart-wrending, A Cup of Dust is set in Oklahoma, 1935. The authro, Susie Finkbeiner does an extraordinary job of melding fiction with history- the result, a realistic account of a young girl growing up in the difficult time of the dust bowl.  This is such an interesting book for those -like me-who have never studied this difficult time period of the American west. The author brings it vividly to life; as I read this book I felt the pain and burden of the living in such a dying region. Simultaneously, as if that era wasn't hard enough, the author weaves a different tale concerning the young girl Pearl. Your interest will be captured early on in the book as confusing and mysterious characters start coming on the scene and disrupting Pearl Spence's relatively happy life with her loving family. Only reading this book will reveal the truth behind this sweet young girl's existence....From start to finish, author Susie Finkbeiner presents a work which will touch your heart. I especially admire how the themes of love and loyalty were played out- excellent job!

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion- thank you!

Where you come from isn’t who you are
Ten-year-old Pearl Spence is a daydreamer, playing make-believe to escape life in Oklahoma’s Dust Bowl in 1935. The Spences have their share of misfortune, but as the sheriff’s family, they’ve got more than most in this dry, desolate place. They’re who the town turns to when there’s a crisis or a need—and during these desperate times, there are plenty of both, even if half the town stands empty as people have packed up and moved on.
Pearl is proud of her loving, strong family, though she often wearies of tracking down her mentally impaired older sister or wrestling with her grandmother’s unshakable belief in a God who Pearl just isn’t sure she likes.
Then a mysterious man bent on revenge tramps into her town of Red River. Eddie is dangerous and he seems fixated on Pearl. When he reveals why he’s really there and shares a shocking secret involving the whole town, dust won’t be the only thing darkening Pearl’s world.
While the tone is suspenseful and often poignant, the subtle humor of Pearl’s voice keeps A Cup of Dust from becoming heavyhanded. Finkbeiner deftly paints a story of a family unit coming together despite fractures of distress threatening to pull them apart

Book review: Blessed, Blessed ... Blessed by Missy Robertson

Blessed, Blessed ... Blessed: The Untold Story of Our Family's Fight to Love Hard, Stay Strong, and Keep the Faith When Life Can't Be Fixed

by Missy Robertson

   I love how I found the Robertson family. Surprisingly, it was not through watching Duck Dynasty (although I have watched several episodes randomly since), but through Sadie Robertson. After discovering her and all that she stands for, I read both books The Duck Commander Family and The Women of Duck Commander followed by A New Season by Al and Lisa Robertson. By the time I had read those books, I was completely amazed by what God had done in this family and fascinated by their faith and strength. It goes without saying that by the time Blessed, Blessed...Blessed was released for publication and consequently reviewing by such fortunate bloggers as I, I was so excited to get my hands on a copy of it! I had already been touched by Missy's gentleness paired with her obvious strength; this book brings both character aspects to light in a whole new way. And what I absolutely love about the book is that Missy doesn't want applause or admiration- she wants Jesus to get all the glory. She is open and candid and humble and I love her the more for it. Moreover, I praise God more for what He does in people's lives! Perhaps you have heard of Missy and Jase's story and that of their daughter Mia....but you will have no idea of the struggles behind their harmonious and close family life until you read their story in Blessed, Blessed....Blessed. After reading this book I was overwhelmed by not only God's goodness in general, but His graciousness to me! I truly am blessed as well, and hope you come away from this book with the same conviction.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you!

Missy Robertson knew that marrying duck-hunting family man Jase Robertson would be an adventure . . . and she was up to the challenge. Their life together was good (even after Jase grew the beard). They had two children, worked hard to help build the thriving Duck Commander business, and loved and served God.

But after a difficult and risky pregnancy, their daughter, Mia, was born with a cleft palate―a serious condition requiring multiple cranial and facial surgeries. As their baby struggled to breathe, and Missy and Jase faced a life that suddenly looked very different than the one they’d planned, they found themselves staring down one of life’s biggest questions: Where is God in all this pain?

This is the Robertsons’ story. It’s for anyone scared and overwhelmed by a problem they can’t fix; anyone lost and searching for a way through. You’ll meet the young girl Mia who captured A&E’s Duck Dynasty viewers’ hearts, and learn how Missy and Jase have raised her and their sons to be faithful, confident, and secure in who they are. You’ll be inspired by how the Robertson family stuck by each other through the hardest times. And you’ll discover that God’s blessings are bigger than you ever dreamed―and there when you need them the most. 

Review of War Room novelization of the movie

    Although the idea behind the screenplay is incredibly important, I had a hard time judging from the novelizationhow impactful it would be in the movie. However, I have high hopes because of the powerful films the Kendricks's have previously produced.

   Having read a couple other books by Chris Fabry, including the novelization of the film The Song, I really am surprised that he is considered a good author. His writing style is basic and predicable. Considering his novelization of screenplays, it sounds as if a young writer was simply relating the film, conversation by conversation, scene by scene. I really felt that I needed to watch War Room to understand the book! 

   Nevertheless, the power of prayer was emphasized strongly in the book; that I was able to take to heart. Also, there was a scene of repentance which brought tears to my eyes; always a wonderful thing in a book. 


   Lastly, in criticism of both the screenplay and the book; I wish it was more obvious whether or not the main characters, specifically Tony were saved at the start of the book or whether they were saved later? I have the idea that the wife Elizabeth was a Christian lacking in prayer.... but Tony...? He had no fruit of the spirit at the start of the book for sure.

  I didn't feel like the author was good at describing the characters either; I strongly believe he expects you, the reader to have the film as your guideline, your accompaniment to the book! Just so you know where I am coming from, I felt the same way about the novelization for Courageous. The book was such a waste of time while the movie is wonderful! 

   To conclude, concerning the screenplay of War Room which I obviously have not yet viewed (review to come when I do!), I am a little concerned about the content. I understand, judging by the novelization of Courageous that novelizations aren't precisely what is shown in a film. The Courageous novel had several scenes which were not in the movie itself. If the War Room film includes everything contained in the novelization than it won't be appropriate for younger viewers. At the same time, it will be excellent for adults and especially couples! I guess I will just have to be patient and wait for the film to be released!

   

according to regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, I must mention that Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

When Sorry Isn't Enough: Making Things Right with Those You Love by Gary Chapman, Jennifer M. Thomas

When Sorry Isn't Enough: Making Things Right with Those You Love

by Gary Chapman, Jennifer M. Thomas

Did you ever sincerely  say ''sorry'' to someone but experience the shock of them not taking it as a true apology? 

In ''When Sorry Isn't Enough'', skilled authors and phsyologists  Gary Chapman and Jennifer Thomas approach the subject of apologies. As we all know, humans make mistakes and usually those mistakes hurt others. Taking responsibility for our failures and making amends graciously is one of the mature and loving actions to take and is definitely important to help relationships- which can be ever so fragile!- thrive. 

What I love about all of Gary Chapman's relationship books is how practical they are. Although best for the Christian audience who have their relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit guiding them to help them heal friendships and such, Gary Chapman's books are also surprisingly useful for non-Christians as well. The fact is, humans need to apply a certain amount of decency (God's common grace) in life or else they would simply tear each other apart!  This is why I recommend this book for all people. 

Of course we know that only true Christians can be genuinely repentant and sorry....likewise only true believers can love with Jesus' kind of love! 

I have heard some critics talk about Gary Chapman's books as shallow because they seem like they are just trying to make people feel better- shallowly healing relationships but not dealing with the heart. I wouldn't agree with this argument because Mr. Chapman does indeed address this argument within his books. Also, you have to admit that people are not just soul. They have personalities. And with millions of personalities running around on the globe, it's good to know how to avoid conflict with them. Also, we could argue that people shouldn't be coddled to and loved in the way that THEY want. Sorry people- humans are so selfish that it will scarcely ever happen that a human can forget himself and how he needs to feel loved. That's why books such as this are SO useful. Imagine all those hurt feelings because you thought you were making a genuine apology but the other person just couldn't understand your way of apologizing! Tell them to ''get over it'' but maybe they can't....Because we are each so different and unique! So, read this book and think twice before you say that you can live fine without the advice presented within the pages....

Chapters include:

Why we hunger for a real apology when we have been hurt; The components of a complete apology;  Why forgiveness isn't the same thing as trust;  What forgiveness really is and what it can and cannot do; Why some people will not apologize and what to do when they won't; The danger of forgiving too easily; What our forgiveness "language" is.

I was happy to receive this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Book on parenting review: If Jesus Had A Child by Glenn Wilkerson

If Jesus Had A Child by Dr. B. Glenn Wilkerson


   You may not have any idea what this book is about, given its unusual name. However, it is simply a book on parenting.

   The book is written in a coherent and organized fashion which I highly appreciated. The text is large and easy to look at, and the chapters are full of interesting thoughts which are never redundant. 
The author is Dr. Wilkerson, who is recognized as one of the world’s foremost authorities on elevating the spiritual/emotional health and creating positive self-concepts in children. He is a Christian minister and is the President and founder of the ARKGroup, a non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of children and students.
Most importantly in light of the subject of this book, Mr. Wilkerson is a Christian father! He has successfully raised several children who are in turn happily raising their own families. 

Although I am not a parent yet I was raised in a large family and still have several young siblings. I was able to view all the advice, wisdom and suggestions in the chapters of this book practically.
I will begin by saying that much of this book is good. Indeed, we must love our children unconditionally and never treat them wrongfully no matter how our parents raised us or how angry we may feel with our offspring at any moment.
However, there was some confusion throughout this book which would be detrimental to a Christian parent. I actually found this book more useful for a non-believing family. The book neglects to mention God. It neglects to view sin as a major flaw in a child's character. Thus, this book is mostly a parenting help manual- seeking to remedy situations instead of hearts and relationships.
Dr. Wilkerson seems very intent upon this new 'democratic' type of parenting which I don't think will be all that helpful to families. I quote from the author: 

"Misbehavior takes place only when children do not have their needs met."

I really cannot agree with this because every child is born with a sin nature- you can be the most perfect and loving of parents and your child will still sin...even rebel...there is only hope in Jesus Christ and his salvation. This latter subject was never mentioned in the book- I found this very odd.  I suggest you read this other review on the book.

Another quote from the book is: ''There are three basic human needs: the need to be loved and wanted; the need to feel powerful; and the need for life to be meaningful and fun. Dr. Dreikurs says that misbehavior occurs when children try to fill their unmet needs in inappropriate ways. He says that every bad behavior can be connected to a specific unmet need.''


I didn't appreciate some liberties Dr. Wilkerson took with Jesus' character. For instance, in the foreword the author states:
"I have even ventured to 'quote' Jesus, paraphrasing words and thoughts I think He might have in response to a given situation"

At another point in the book, the author takes the liberty of assuring the reader that Jesus made sure he and the disciples had ''a lot of fun'' and proceeds to mention the wedding at Canaa where Jesus was probably ''telling jokes''....later the author also mentions the fishing excursions as part of the fun times. Excuse me? Fishing wasn't what it is today in America! And I am sure that Jesus and the disciples had JOY but their goal wasn't FUN. And smiles yes, but jokes....ouch. 

In short, this book has some good points but too many wrong ideas to be of much value especially to Christian parents.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Book review: Becoming a Spiritually Healthy Family by Michelle Anthony

Becoming a Spiritually Healthy Family :Avoiding the 6 Dysfunctional Parenting Styles
by Michelle Anthony

   We've all had this moment, whether we recognize it or not. This attempt to take over the Director's chair. We grab a pen, write a script, and try to steer the story in the direction we think it should go. BUT...He's the only one who knows the characters, understands the plot line, and is weaving them all together toward the ending He intends. He hasn't hired us to write our on stories; He has cast us in HIS story. 
-from the first chapter of Becoming a Spiritually Healthy Family

   This is a new book published by David C. Cook, January 2015. 
   I am always drawn to such practical books as this! For one thing, I am a part of a large family and for another thing, I hope to someday have a family of my own! As I read this extremely practical book, I was able to relate to many of the instances included. 
Although I am not a parent yet, I was able to see myself in a few of the dysfunctional parenting styles! That said, I do recommend this book for those who have younger siblings, as well as those who wish to have a family in the future. The sooner you start learning how to parent well, the better. Such Biblical truths can never be out of our realm.
   The author of this new paperback book is Michelle Anthony. Michelle is the vice president of Learning Resourches and Family Ministry Architect at David C Cook. The author of several books on similar topics as the one I am reviewing, Mrs. Anthony has over 25 years of experience in church ministry. She is a children's and family pastor at her church in Colorado. Personally, I don't condone the latter for women, but I spent some time researching Michelle's beliefs and stances on current issues and was relatively pleased with the articles she endorses.
Her new book, Becoming a Spiritually Healthy Family is an excellent read, for both women and men. Men will not feel uncomfortable reading it since Mrs. Anthony doesn't take a leadership position in the book; rather she is humble and open with her writing. This is not a theology book; it is a useful book on parenting.
  I think most parents will greatly benefit from this book. The author not only addresses the many methods of dysfunctional parenting, she goes to the root and heart of the matter, explaining reasons why you as the parent may be parenting a certain way. She also mentions common and proven results of children who grew up with dysfunctional parenting. From the ''Can't say no'' parent to the ''Micro-managing parent'', Michelle Anthony covers 6 different dysfunctional parenting methods. Although I would hope this is not the case for every parent, you are sure to discover one of these methods which you have been practicing. With ''Becoming a Spiritually Healthy Family'' you can not only identify the problems in your parenting, but by the grace of God, cure them!

Practical ''Reflect and Respond” questions and exercises follow up every chapter in order to help you, the reader completely understand and put into practice what you just learned. 


A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review purposes. The opinions expressed are my own.

The Home Team: God's Game Plan for the Family by Clint Archer

The Home Team: God's Game Plan for the Family
by Clint Archer

I will begin my review of this book by Clint Archer by saying that it was one of the most interesting and applicable books I've read this year! It's not just another book about family. Using illustrations from the sports world, the author captures the reader's attention in a whole new way! I was engrossed in this 152-page paperback from the first page! I actually read the first half straight through, last Sunday afternoon. The second half was just as easy to read! Most importantly, the lessons and truths presented in this book published by Shepherd Press are wonderful and Biblical. There is enough for each of you, whether a father, mother, or child. I appreciated how the author also spoke to singles! No one is left out, because after all we each belong to that God-created institution, the family! I highly recommend this book for every family, no matter how big or small you may be, and no matter where you are in your Spiritual walk. I trust that God will use this book mightily in your life! 

Author Clint Archer focuses on many different areas important in the lives of families. He speaks of course about the Biblical basis for family. He talks about the God-given roles for men and women. He addresses parenting and many more subjects. All in all, I found this a very balanced perspective. Biblical but not presumptuous- Mr. Archer didn't press his views but instead spoke to the heart of the different, sometimes controversial matters. 

Read this book and pray through the chapters, alone or with your family and see what God can do if you are willing to follow His word!

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More about the book...

Using illustrations and analogies from the world of sports, The Home Team by Clint Archer presents the Christian family as a team. He highlights the one-flesh union of husband and wife as the fundamental team for God’s design of society, the family, and marriage. Facing challenges together this cohesive team must not allow division to weaken their union. As children are added, Mom and Dad play their unique and essential roles to strengthen the expanding team. The family must close ranks on opponents to God’s design, tackle obstacles, and fortify the bonds in their huddle. In the unity and synergy of teamwork each player is uniquely positioned to advance the team’s objective. The goal is to give God glory, and enjoy the blessings and joy that come with obedience.

“Clint Archer sounds the Biblical call for the Christian family to pursue Christ as a team. Like an experienced coach, Archer directs each member of the family how to play his or her position according to the rule-book of Holy Scripture.”
-Dr. Joel R. Beeke – President, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary

good book: 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to your Husband

25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband

by Jennifer Flanders 

I know...this has to be one of the most unusual books I've read this year. At least for me in my unmarried state. But I could have been married and still could be some day. So I read this book. And it was great! Made me wish I was married, just so I could surprise my man by all that I'd learnt from it. 

Truly, this is a remarkable book for wives. I love how Jennifer is just an ordinary woman. I could relate to her entirely. But she teaches, in this 25-chapter book, many ways a woman can think primarily of her husband's interests. 

Ephesians 5:22Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body.…

Yet, as I read this book I didn't get the idea that Mrs. Flanders- or her husband-believes that women are merely for serving their husbands. Jennifer's love for her role as a woman and help meet just flows through the words in this book. You can tell that she delights in meeting the needs of her husband, of pleasing him, of honoring him.

This is what else is said about the book:

We get out of marriage what we pour into it.

• Would you like for your husband to be more attentive?
• Do you long for him to notice and admire you?
• Wish he’d recognize and appreciate all your hard work?
• Want him to be respectful of your wishes and opinions?
• Would you like for him to spend more time with you?

Then treat him the way you want to be treated.

WARNING: Reading this book may alter the way you look at your husband, your marriage, and life in general. Read at your own risk. Side effects from implementing the principles set forth in these pages may include a more joyful outlook, better communication skills, a healthier relationship, a happier home, and a rekindled desire to love on your man

I am personally very glad I read this book now....perhaps by the time I am married the truths found in this little book will be ingrained in my heart, making marriage much easier for both me and my husband! 

I was very pleased to receive a copy of this book to review from the publisher.