Book Review ... Cast of Characters by Max Lucado

I think I recognize these people… that’s the thought that came to mind as I read Max Lucado’s book Cast of Characters. I enjoyed the way he showed biblical characters that I’ve read about from I was a child in a more human and relatable way. The way he used personal stories alongside that of the characters made the book a more interesting read.

I love that the book sometimes asks questions… almost like an imaginary interview like, “Joseph, did you and Jesus arm wrestle.” Sections like that made me smile because I enjoy thinking of our biblical heroes as men and women just like us.

I silently cheered are I read about Mephibosheth… to go from having nothing, living in the shadows to sitting at the kings table.

As I read through the book each chapter and each character presented had something that tugged at my heartstrings, inspired me or simply made me reflect on my life and spiritual walk.

I like the fact that each chapter of the book ended with questions for reflections and discussion because it made me dig a little deeper into God’s word.

I love Max Lucado’s conversational style of writing and thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

Never Let You Go Book Review

Book Description

Lexi lives in the shadow of choices her husband made. Especially Grant’s choice to leave seven years ago, without a word. Her relationship with their daughter, Molly, is now the most important thing in her life. Lexi will do anything—work grueling hours, attend church on her only day off, sacrifice financially—just to see Molly smile.

When Grant shows up declaring his intent to re-enter their daughter’s life, Lexi is skeptical of his motives. She soon determines not to let him near Molly. Then a drug dealer named Warden arrives on Lexi’s doorstep, demanding payment of Grant’s old debts.

But that's just the earthly perspective. Staggering supernatural events are spilling into her world in real and shocking ways. Hell's fury is great, but Heaven's power is greater still. In a novel that defies easy categorization, this has all the early buzz of the breakthrough read of 2010.

My Review…

I’m a lover of Christian fiction and I’m always on the lookout for new authors. This was my first time reading a book by Erin Healy and I enjoyed it. The fact that it had a plot somewhat revolving around spiritual warfare reminded me of some of Frank Peretti’s popular books. The book also has the theme of forgiveness woven through it reminding us that that we empower the enemy when we choose not to forgive. This book kept my attention from cover to cover and I wouldn’t mind reading more from this author.

Book Review - I Wish You Enough by Bob Perks

" I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.”

I wish you enough…

The name of the book, I Wish You Enough by Bob Perks, intrigued me. My first thought was, “who wishes someone enough?” Consequently I wanted to see what gems were hidden between the pages of this little book.

I was not disappointed.

I read the entire book in practically one sitting. Beautifully illustrated chapters each one starting with the words “I wish you enough…” captured my attention. In each chapter Perks offers motivating and inspiring personal stories and scriptures to illustrate the concept of the book, I Wish You Enough. The sometimes message of the book coupled with the attractive layout kept me reading and rereading.

I think this book would make a lovely gift to brighten up someones day.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review.

Book Review - Redefining Beautiful

What is your definition of beautiful? Have you ever look in the mirror and seen someone you thought less than attractive looking back at you? If you answered yes to that question then Jenna Lucado’s book Redefining Beautiful was definitely written with you in mind.

Redefining Beautiful encourages young ladies to stop defining themselves by the world’s ideas of beautiful and see themselves as God sees them. Beautiful in this book is defined as, what God sees when God sees you.

This book is interspersed with examples from Jenna’s life and is written in an easy to read, down to earth format that teen girls will enjoy reading. Jenna discusses a variety of topics from deodorants, to sunburns, Facebook addictions, friendships and boys, just to name a few. This book can be used for individual study or for group discussions.

I often give books to teens as gifts and I would not hesitate to give this book as a gift.

Do Hard Things... Book Review and Give Away

A teenage rebellion… this was the first thing that caught my eyes when I finally picked up my copy of Do Hard Things. When I was a teenager rebelling could bring some serious consequences if the parents found out. However this book encourages rebellion not against parents, society’s rules or God’s laws. It encourages, almost demands rebellion against low expectations.

This book is an excellent motivational tool for teens. It encourages you not to waste your teenage years doing what seems to be the norm for teenagers. It’s not enough to just do well in school, obey your parents and keep your room clean, although these things are important. These two teenage authors want teens to stretch themselves beyond what is expected of them and do hard things. The book has story after story of real teens who did great things such as; start charitable organizations, ran campaigns for political candidates, stood alone against pressure and the list goes on… I think any teenager would be motivated to do hard things after reading this book.

Now for the Giveaway

I’ve offered teens who receive the print copy of Girl Talk here in the Bahamas an opportunity to win my copy of the Book Do Hard Things. However, I'd love to give blog readers an opportunity to win a copy also. If you'd like to read this book leave a comment on this post. I'll choose a winner at the end of September. So be sure to check back. (This is my very first bloggy giveaway so I hope you'll participate:))