Showing posts with label Non-Fiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Non-Fiction. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

The Artist's Daughter

The Artist's Daughter
by Alexandra Kuykendall
 
I was blessed with the opportunity to read and review this new book for free through MOPS International.  I have truly enjoyed reading Alexandra's story and found it difficult to put down!
 
Alexandra's story is filled with adventure, heartbreak, struggle, and endurance.  In her story, there is something for every reader.  Beginning with her rambling childhood, meeting her father and facing a lifelong struggle for acceptance, to the present, the reader walks along Alexandra's side through her heartach and longing into the peace and grace God has provided her as a mother and successful writer and key piece of the MOPS International team.  Women of all stages will find ways to relate to her story and find encouragement and belonging. 
 
I found the chapters flowing so flawlessly and the story so engaging and easy to read that I struggled to put the book down at times.  This is truly an enjoyable book to read cover to cover and I am so glad I have had the opportunity to do so.  I am recommending this book to my mommy friends near and far - you will not be disappointed!
 
Find The Artist's Daughter at Barnes and Noble and other booksellers now!

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Firsthand

Firsthand: Ditching Secondhand Religion for a Faith of Your Own
By Ryan and Josh Shook

A faith- challenging book sure to cause the reader to take a deeper look at their Christian faith, or lack thereof.  Written in a very non - confrontational way, filled with real life examples and thoughts, not only from the authors, but from a wealth of others, there are a variety of ideas and faith levels represented. Readers will find not only conversation about having one's own faith firsthand as opposed to believing through parents or other adults, but also ways to dig deeper, search more completely and grow stronger through reading and actions.  A great book for all levels of faith, each reader is sure to find encouragement and challenge to know Christ firsthand.  Well worth the read and  a fantastic book to pass along!

I was provided a free copy of this book for review by WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging For Books program.  I was in no way compensated for this review nor required to write a positive review, all thoughts are my own.

Find it at Barnes And Noble and other book sellers nationwide, beginning March 19, 2013!

Saturday, February 2, 2013

Woman's Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year

 
A Woman's Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year
by Diane Stortz
 
A book geared especially toward women and their needs for social iteractions and friendships, this guide begins with a little introduction and encouragement.  Built around the idea that a group of women should seek to accomplish this task of reading through the Bible in a year together, stories are shared that give the reader ideas of success and support.
 
Set apart into weeks, each week begins with a little background about the verses that will be read for the week.  Following that, there is a list of books, chapters and verses to be read, one for each day.  Checkpoints are listed for the reader to have some points to look for in their reading to keep things centered.  A journal portion of the page is left for the reader to answer questions about what they have read, allowing the reader to jot down verses or passages to remember, something that was learned or gained, and any questions.  This page then proves helpful for the weekly group meetings for discussion.
 
While inteneded for group use, this book is equally helpful for reading on ones own as well.  Simple and easy to follow, the guide breaks the Bible down into manageable portions that offer success.  I enjoyed the intro for each week, as it guides the reading rather than just offering a list of verses to read.  A book that will surely stay in my collection and one that I am recommending to all of my female friends.  A good place to condsider starting a small group.
 
I was provided a free copy of this book for review through Waterbrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program. I was in no way compensated for this review nor was I required to write a positive review.
 

Friday, November 30, 2012

Black Dog


Black Dog
By Reverend John R. Dolan

A topic that remains largely un-discussed and swept under the rug, anxiety and depression are very real problems for many people today. It is seldom that one can get a glimpse into what that world is truly like unless suffering from the illness themselves.

In an attempt to expose the topic with brutal honesty and give a glimpse into that dark world, Dolan's book Black Dog opens the door into a real, life long struggle through his personal story. Readers walk with the author through his life and encounter his struggles with what he coined the "Black Dog" (anxiety and depression). Along the way, the Black Dog lurks and surfaces at times, while laying low in others, and through it all, readers are given a fresh look into this heavy topic.

Hope is offered to readers as the see how help was found and the Black Dog was leashed for Dolan. In his soul baring honesty, Dolan offers readers a chance to discover hope if they are also facing the struggles of depression and anxiety. In addition, readers see how truly real and debilitating life can be, reasons why people fighting these illnesses might act the way they do, and find ways to help and relate.

As the wife of someone who currently has his own Black Dog, I found this book an eye opener as well as an encouragement. My husband also read the book on my recommendation and was encouraged as well as felt in company with Dolan and relieved that many of his personal emotions had been put into words by another. He said he felt as if someone had written from his mind the emotions, struggles, fears and many other feelings so wrapped up into dealing with depression and anxiety.

We are both glad to have read this book and grateful to the author for having shared in such a unique and honest way so as to help, educate and encourage others.

Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.combook review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Your Life Without Limits

Your Life Without Limits: Living Above Your Circumstances
Nick Vujicic

A short summary of Nick Vujicic's book "Life Without Limits", this is a very short inspirational piece designed to encourage and motivate readers to have hope, persevere, and set high goals for their lives no matter their circumstance.

Having previously read Nick's book, I expected this to be a follow up and was excited to read more from this energetic and inspiring author. I was quite disappointed to find it only an extended summary or maybe a supplement to the book "Life Without Limits" with a little added to act as a stand alone piece or a tidbit to whet the appetite of the reader and introduce them to the story while leaving them wanting more. I am not sure about the true purpose of this short piece.

That said, I have read and reviewed on this site the full book and was thrilled to have had the chance to read it. With bits of encouragement and motivation sprinkled through Nick's life story, it was truly inspirational and worth reading multiple times. You can read my review of Life Without Limits here.

I was provided a digital copy of this book through the Waterbrook Multnomah Blogging for Books program.  I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated for my review.  All thoughts are my own.

Find it at Barnes and Noble

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

The Girl's Still Got It

The Girl's Still Got It
Liz Curtis Higgs

In a refreshing look at the book of Ruth, Liz Curtis Higgs puts a fun spin on reading about Ruth and her story, creating an engagin way to learn and get deeper into the story of Ruth.  With humor and depth, this book is sure to find a spot with every reader.

Women especially will appreciate this book as it celebrates this historic woman of faith and paints her in a modern way that readers can relate to and understand much easier than from biblical texts alone.  Higgs uses her knowledge of the bible to teach, adds humor to engage, writes in a way that all readers can understand and relate, and captures the reader with her words.

I was immediately drawn into this book and loved reading about Ruth in this way.  My understanding of her walk and life and in turn a new understanding of our God grew from my reading this book.  I was enagaged in ways I seldom am with stories of biblical characters.  After reading this book, I am eager to seek out and read more of the books written by this author.

A glimpse into who this writer is and Ruth's story...


I received this book through Waterbrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program.  I was in no way compensated for my review, nor was I required to write a positive review.  All thoughts are my own.

Barnes and Noble Review:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-girls-still-got-it-liz-curtis-higgs/1110918393?ean=9781578564484&tabname=custreview&

Friday, April 13, 2012

When Work and Family Collide



When Work & Family Collide
by Andy Stanley

In today's fast paced world full of extra time wasters like facebook, video games and the like, families often find themselves stretched to the max trying to make it all fit in and still have a family.  Work often takes precedence in a material and want driven world where owning the biggest and best requires debt and ceaseless hours of work to make ends meet.

Stanly presents the idea that many families today are mssing out on God's desires because work often comes first and family gets the leftovers.  He challenges readers to look for areas in life that can be cut out or left alone for a time, such as leaving work an hour early on occasion, skipping a golf outing or leaving dirty dishes, in order to spend time playing with your child or focusing on your spouse.  Easier said than done in many homes, Stanley's suggestions hit home hard and force the reader to take a solid look at their own lives and consider the ultimate cost.  What really matters in the end?

An excellent book filled with life stories, this book is easy to read and challenging with God's love written all over it.  A highly recommended book for every family!

I was provided a free copy of this book for review through Waterbrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program.  I was in no way compensated for this review nor was I required to write a positive review.

Thursday, April 5, 2012

King of Glory


King of Glory
by P.D. Bramsen

What a creative way to present the Bible!  I was immediately impressed and drawn in to this book.  In a time where graphic novels are very popular, this presentation of Bible highlights is long needed and sure to draw in a new audience in a way print Bibles might now have.

Geared toward teens and young adults, this book is appropriate for adults as well.  Taking a small sampling of the most famous and well knows stories in the Bible, this book presents the stories in a format of pictures that, in addition to short descriptions and scripture verses and references.  Set in scenes, more like snap shots of the bible, the illustrations are beautiful and full of detail that fully fit with the story on the matching page.  70 scenes and stories taking the reader from creation through Christ's coming return, all major pieces of the bible are covered.  Written as a story about a kingdom, a King with a secret plan and epic plots for rescue, this book is sure to capture any reader.

King of Glory is appropriate for readers from any culture, as it presents the story of the Bible in a non-confrontational or preachy way that is engaging and intriguing.  A book I highly recommend and fully intend to keep as a part of my library.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”I was in no way compensated for this review.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

The Creation

The Creation
as retold by Janice D. Green

The Creation is a re-telling of the story of creation, as found in the book of Genesis.  This book covers the 7 days of God's creation as well as a short discussion of Adam and Eve.  A short book filled with colorful illustration in the form of quilt squares, this book is quite unique from others of this sort.  Each page offers a matching illustration and discussion questions to go along with the story for that illustration as well as a scripture reference.

Most appropriate for children ages 5-9, there is plenty to offer for children younger and older within this book.  A very easy way to present the story of creation to young children through pictures and short stories while offering opportunity for depth with older children through scripture reading and discussions.  A great way for parents to share a familiar Bible story with their children with lots of room for growth and learning.

The end of the book offers a parents section with discussion and background in regards to the story itself along with a family activity of making a creation quilt.  A really great book that is engaging, educational and scripturally sound.  A book that is sure to remain a part of our library for years to come and one I recommend.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”I was in no way compensated for this review.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

To Be Perfectly Honest

To Be Perfectly Honest
by Phil Callaway

Such an intriguing idea that should not at all be foreign to or even strange to hear of, esecially in the Christian community, To Be Perfectly Honest is a refreshing and challenging read that should be taken in by all!

In his book, Calaway humorously yet honestly walks through a year of his live through daily journal type entries, facing the challenge given him that he should go an entire year without telling any lies. His honest report of the experience is thought provoking, yet presented in a way that is easy to read, engaging and even laugh out loud funny at times. Through his journey, he shares stories, life experiences and events he faces and his way of handling them while trying to maintain his truthfulness.

Readers of all walks will find challenge, humor and sobering honesty within this book and will likely find themselves facing the challenge themselves to at least comsider how truthful they really are as well as considering the effects of their responses on others with whom they interact. A highly recommended read, light and fun yet filled with challenge and life changing ideas sure to make an impact.

I was provided a free copy of this ebook through the Waterbrook Multnomah Blogging for Books program.  I was in no way compensated for my review or required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Life, In Spite Of Me

Life, In Spite of Me
by Kristen Jane Anderson
with Tricia Goyer

Reaching out to others who may be hurting or looking for answers, Kristen Anderson shares her story in a refreshing, easy to read and free flowing way that hooks readers immediately.  Through the journey of her hurts, suicide attempt, recovery and disappointments along the way, Anderson sheds light on a dark story, finding hope in Christ and a new life.  Among chapters are intermittently spaced notes from Kristen to the reader in regards to specific topics such as sucide and what to do to get help if one is in that situation. 

I initially chose to read this book because I was curious.  Having never heard Kristen's story, I was unaware of the book's true message.  Once I got started reading, I had a difficult time putting the book down, finishing it in a matter of two days.  This story is a quick read, with short chapters that flow smoothly, walking the reader through Anderson's life from the point right before her suicide attempt to the present, sharing insight and encouragement through her hurts, pain, depression and strggles.

A highly recommended read.  Readers from all walks of life and histories will find some nugget of truth and help within this book.  Especially recommended for teens or other individuals facing severe depression and thoughts of suicide.
I received this ebook for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated for writing this review.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

40 Ways To Get Closer To God

40 Ways To Get Closer To God
by Jerry MacGregor

For the Christian looking to get a little deeper into their walk with God, this book offers 40 opportunities to stretch and grow while becoming more active in one's faith and reaching out to others.  40 Ways offers 40 different activities designed to stretch and grow the reader while providing practical applications in the form of challenges.

Designed to be a 40 day walk, this book could easily become a weekly study for the individual or for a group.   Each chapter is a short 4 or so pages, complete with a story, challenge, scripture and journaling space. 

Topics include: serving others, scripture memorization, prayer, scripture reading, and visiting elderly in a nursing home among many others.  Designed to force one out of the box a little, there are some challenging chapters that force one to stretch outside of comfort limits, but to the reward of growth.  A definite keeper, this book is for the Christian who needs a little shove to get moving, or for those who are wanting some more depth to their walk. 

I was provided a copy of this book for review by Bethany House Publishers.  I was in no way compensated for my review, nor was I required to write a positive review.  All thoughts on this book are my own.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Love Your Husband, Love Yourself


Love Your Husband, Love Yourself
Jennifer Flanders

A book full of chapters and ideas to support the Christian woman in her role as wife, Flanders discusses in depth the requirements based in the bible and the Christian Faith that women should follow in order to truly love and honor their husbands, creating a strong marriage based on faith and love.

While I found the information and ideas to be encouraging and helpful, I had a hard time getting through this book as I found it wordy and the chapters long and difficult to wade through.  Sadly, I cannot give it more than 2.5 stars because it was a challenge for me not to put the book down and walk away from it permanently.  For it to be effective for me, I need to be engaged, which I was not.

Still, I do recommend it on the basis of the information contained.  While definitely written for the more traditional woman who stays home and is devoted to the house and family without other work requirements, all women can glean some bit of information that will help them love their husbands more fully and create a safe and loving marriage environment that is strong and faith based.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”  I was in no way compensated for this review.

Friday, July 1, 2011

Out Of A Far Country

Out Of A Far Country
by Christopher Yuan & Angela Yuan

A topic surrounded with debate among the Christian community and the world at large, homosexuality is often a topic of heated discussion and raw feelings and emotions.  Being a part of a family where this issue is faced, I was intrigued by the topic of this book and drawn to read it out of curiosity.  I am so glad I did!

Out Of A Far Country tells the story of a journey for mother and son from the time Chris Yuan "came out" about being a homosexual up to the present day.  This story is thick with deep emotion, turmoil, intriguing story line and honesty like few other books.  Through the course of the past years, Yuan shares about the man he became, the struggles and ideas he embraced, the results of the chosen paths and the surprise and encouraging ending that leaves the reader thinking deeply about the world around them.  Every other chapter is either by mother or son, following the life of Chris from different perspectives and giving insight to living with a homosexual family member as well as finding love and peace for all members involved. 

A definite must read for any Christian family facing the idea of a member who is homosexual, this book does not encourage full acceptance of the lifestyle, but instead shows how one family, with God, overcame great turmoil and came to find peace and love amid the misunderstanding.  I was thoroughly encouraged and came away with a new understanding and greater love for my family member.  On the top of my list of recommended books for it's complete honesty and personal growth inducing thought.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated for writing this review.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Jesus, My Father, The CIA, and Me


Jesus, My Father, The CIA, and Me: A Memoir... of Sorts
by Ian Cron

An engaging memoir that keeps readers interest through the pages, memories, stories and lessons.  So much more than just a memoir, this book offers a look into the life of a man who straight forwardly shares the hurts, fears, struggles and battles of a life lived with an alcoholic mysterious father, bouncing from well being to near poverty and back.  Brutal honesty draws readers to Cron's side as cheer leaders through the book.

Prior to reading this book, I was unsure what I would be finding.  Not familiar with Cron's story, I was intrigued by the title.  I am so glad I stepped into the adventure his book offers.  With a spiritual force backing his story, he leads readers through more darkness than is imaginable, spun with laughter and humor, complete with a faith that finds readers identifying and searching their lives for that faith as well.  A good read, quick and light yet deep and fully engaging.
Disclosure of Material Connection: 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. 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.”


Tuesday, May 31, 2011

The One Day Way

The One Day Way
by Chantel Hobbs

I chose to read this book as one who does not necessarily need to diet, looking instead at the book as a whole on it's intended audience and effectiveness in approach and reading style as I have friends I would be able to recommend the book to should it pass my test.

Chantel Hobbs approaches the idea of dieting one day at at time, breaking down the often insurmountable task into little pieces.  By setting oneself up for daily success, focusing only on the day at hand, not weeks ahead or behind, the dieter can begin to break down old habits and form new, healthier habits to replace them.  Spinning in her ten commandments of dieting, Hobbs puts a spiritual spin on the idea of losing weight.  She approaches the topic in a serious yet easy to read and non-judgmental way that invites readers to consider this approach and give it a try.

Like most diet books, this book does of course push the ideas of exercise, healthy eating and lifestyle change.  It is not a quick fix plan nor is it a guarantee... it is up to the inidividual to make the plan successful for them.  After having read the book, I am comfortable in passing it on to friends who are looking for ways to help with their weight struggle.  I appreicate the spiritual aspect to this book and feel it an appropriate, well written approach to helping those who wish to change their weight by doing so one day at a time and trusting in God to help.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated for writing this review.

Barnes and Noble review: http://my.barnesandnoble.com/communityportal/review.aspx?reviewid=1679932

Monday, May 9, 2011

Daddy Dates




Daddy Dates
Four Daughters, One Clueless Dad, and His Quest to Win Their Hearts: The Road Map for Any Dad to Raise a Strong and Confident Daughter
by Greg Wright

This is a very fun and engaging book written by the father of four girls, full of funny stories and interest.  Through his attempts to connect with his girls and set a Godly example for them, he shares his experiences and encourages other fathers to make similar commitments to do the same with their children.  A well written book full of honesty and humor, down to earth, encouraging and challenging for fathers.  Full of practical advice and stories easily followed and put into practice.

Setting out to raise confident and successful women-to-be, Wright walks through each stage of life a girl faces, from grade school to pre-teen, puberty, dating, college, etc. In seeking to show his daughters what is is like to be treated with true love and respect by a man who truly loved them, he shares some of the ways he made sure he met his girls at their level and really got to know them.  Through his "dating" his daughters, he shares some of the stories and offers suggestions for other dads to step up and do the same.  Full of practical "take action" type writing, it is easy to follow and implement.

Geared toward men, this book is easy to read through, engaging and entertaining to read.  Women can get their share of information from the chapters as well.  My husband absolutely loved the book and has already set out to begin "dating" our infant daughter, implementing ideas and adapting them to fit the lifestyles of a baby, seeking to make this a lifelong venture in which he can invest many positive hours and build a foundation for our daughter.  A wonderful Father's Day book or for that new daddy in your life.  Very highly recommended!  A tool every dad should have!!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: 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. 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.”

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Life Without Limits



Life Without Limits
by Nick Vujicic

This book has something for everyone.  From the broken and down-trodden to the secure, there is so much packed into this book.  I was initially interested for the sole purpose of disovering more about Nick and reading his story as I had seen a you tube video and was amazed.  Little did I know how much this book would offer outside of a good read.

Nick is truly inspirational.  The story is written in a very safe and easy to read format, chapters broken down into sub stories so there are easy places to stop mid-chapter and pick up later if one does not have a long time available to read in one sitting.  Nick weaves stories of his growing up and struggles with humor, encouragement and common sense to provide an uplifting message that anyone can understand and put to practice.  Despite his lack of limbs, Nick has overcome and is able to do so much.  Putting his love of public speaking with his inspiring story, he sets out to change the world, reader by reader.

Absolutely at the top of my list of recommended books, this is one I will be passing around to share.  Well worth the time as any reader will come away feeling uplifted and encouraged as well as gracious for their own places in life and the gifts they have been given.  A fresh perspective that changes how things look. 

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated for writing this review.

Barnes and Noble: http://my.barnesandnoble.com/communityportal/review.aspx?reviewid=1639241





Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Couples Who Pray


Couples Who Pray: The Most Intimate Act Between A Man and A Woman
by Squire Rushnell and Louise DuArt

Growing up, I often heard the statement, "families who pray together, stay together".  How true, then, for couples as well.  An intimate act that people often feel uncomfortable doing in front of others, prayer is our main source of communication with God.  It has been made into a secret and embarrassing thing that so few are able to share in the presence of others comfortably.  How important it is that someone be able to pray with their spouse, their closest friend and partner.

Couples Who Pray addresses the need for couples to be able to do just that - pray, together and without fear of ritual, sounding silly, etc.  It is such an intimate act, and one that should be shared between a couple.  An act that can draw a couple closer together as they become comfortable going to God together, sharing their deepest hurts, strongest desires and greatest joys.  Being able to pray together adds a whole new depth to any marriage as it requires a greater trust as well as a mutual relationship together in Christ.

Assuming the couple shares a relationship with Christ (the essential goal of the book), encouraging those who do not to seek Him out, this book does not set out to "save" marriages so much, but to help grow marriages and offer practical ways to grow closer and possibly repair hurts.  A 40 day challenge that has been taken up by many notable celebrity couples, their journeys are shared and offered as encouragement to the reader.  Easy to read, light and friendly in approach.Highly recommended for every couple.  A wonderful book for the couple just starting out on their marriage journey as well as for those who have been at it for some time and need some challenges.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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.”

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

The Goodness of God



The Goodness of God
by Randy Alcorn

What a thought provoking and mind altering work!  Alcorn puts into words some of the biggest questions we as hums ask about why things like evil, natural disasters, and other bad things happen to us.  "Why did God let this happen" is a question most every person has asked at one time or another.  In his book, Randy Alcorn addresses these questions and many more as they relate to God's goodness in a world full of sin, pain and evil.  Through biblical reference as well as cultural events and personal stories, he author addresses a multitude of topics within the realm of God's goodness and it's existence though our human comprehension of events might cause us to believe otherwise.

An appropriate book for someone facing a life struggle or difficulty, this book offers sound explanations and reasons that are biblically based and comfort.  A great gift for a friend or loved one (or self) facing troubled times and looking for some peace and understanding.

Well written, easy to read with shorter chapters, one can invest a short time to complete a chapter.  Yet, each chapter contains so much information and depth that the individual headings and resulting sections could constitute a reading session themselves.  Plenty of room for possibility of a book study, small group or personal growth study.  A solid book full of ideas, thoughts and stories that will cause the reader to pause, consider their own lives and their world and begin to see things in a new light.  To realize that God is good and ever present in the bad.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.  I was not required to write a positive review and received no compensation for doing so.  All opinions contained in this review are my own.