Nelson's Biblical Cyclopedic Index

Nelson's Biblical Cyclopedic Index
The Best Bible Subject Index Ever
by Thomas Nelson Publishers


The most recent Biblical Index published by Thomas Nelson is a handy little resource for all students of the Bible, from novice to knowledgeable.  It is arranged alphabetically, giving reference to the book, chapter and verse for each topic.  The index provides two sources of information: the scriptural material needed for your study and an outline in the order it appears in the Bible within each topic heading.  A nice small size, it is easy to tuck into a book bag and take along.  User friendly, this book is not intimidating as some other Biblical reference texts can be.  Able to be used with any Bible translation, you get a combined concordance Biblical dictionary and topical Bible all in one little book with more than 80,000 topics and 300 word studies.

For those who will use this book regularly, it would be much better in hard cover format as the cover can be easily bent, made of fairly thin paper.  That aside, a welcome addition to any library, making the study and understanding of the Bible all the easier.


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.”

Slave

Slave: The Hidden Truth About Your Identity in Christ
by John MacArthur

An intriguing concept - to consider one's relationship with Christ as one of a Slave/Master.  In MacArthur's book, he explores this concept, backing up his thoughts and ideas with many references from the Bible and other scholarly people and sources.  A very deep and thought provoking book.

It took me some time to get into this book.  Definitely not for the light reader, it is involved and takes considerable time to thoroughly wade through all of the chapters and give thought to the concepts presented.  Also not for the reader looking for a quick read, this book took me considerable time to get through, and I consider myself a fast reader.  Deep concepts, many references listed (some taking up half a page), and fairly technical wording make for a slow read.

While the ideas are challenging and force the Christian reader to look into themselves and they way they view their relationship with Christ, this book also offers personal reflection and challenging thoughts that may not be agreed upon by all.  Recommended only to the serious reader with time for reflection, deep thought and conversation about this topic.

You can read the first chapter at here: http://booksneeze.com/blogger/download/9781400202072

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.”

Shutterfly Christmas Card

The lastest Shutterfly project...  

I absolutely love Shutterfly for all of it's capablities and time saving projects that turn out so perfect every time!  The latest project I made is a Christmas card for this year with our family portrait on it.  So easy to do, step by step instructions included so I do not even have to think about it.  So many designs to choose from and layouts available, it was hard to make a decision.  I did... and this is the end result that will be mailed to my friends and family this year...

Polka Dot Wishes Holiday

Christmas cards and holiday thank you cards by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Looking for a quick way to make your holiday Christmas Card, or any other photo project?  Check out Shutterfly.  You can thank me later!

Shutterfly Holiday Cards 2010

Shutterfly.com is an awesome website I was turned on to shortly before the birth of my daughter in February of 2010.  A great place to go to get digital photos printed for a very reasonable price, there is so much more to offer than just basic prints. 

I have used this site to order and purchase the birth announcements for my little one and was so impressed, as were many of the recipients.  Announcements came with envelopes the perfect size and of great quality.  I've had several prints developed in 4x6 and enlarged sizes and always been thrilled with the results. 

This year, I intend to order my Christmas cards from Shutterfly.com as well.  There are so many designs to choose from, so many formats and options.  I love that I can narrow down the search by inputting how many pictures I have, the color scheme I am looking for, the portrait orientation I desire, and the size of the card, among other search paramaters.  I have no doubt the perfect card for our family is just waiting for me to add a picture and make it ours.

From the time of order to receipt of the completed order in a bright orange package via UPS is about 5 days (sometimes even less)!  Check out the links below to some of my favorite products currently being featured on Shutterfly.com...

Click here to see the latest Photo Holiday Cards.  My favorite: Polka Dot Wishes
Click here to see the latest Holiday Cards.  My favorite: Funky Holiday Lime
Click here to see the latest Christmas Cards.  My favorite: Retro Christmas

Click here to see the latest Calendars.  My favorite: Wall Calendars
Click here to see the latest New Years Invitations.  My favorite: Bubbly Bash
Click here to see the latest Mother's Day Cards.  My favorite: Mom Noir Rose

I've believe this year the design of my Christmas card will be based on Polka Dot Wishes and cannot wait to see the finished product.  Thank goodness for Shutterfly.com, I don't have to go anywhere, literally, to get great cards and other personalized photo gifts and stationary.  And, at such reasonable prices, I can't go wrong.  Thanks Shutterfly.com!

The Grace of God

The Grace of God
by Andy Stanley

Such an familiar word, ingrained in the Christian vocabulary... Grace.  Yet, do we really understand what this powerful little word means?  So few even stop to consider the depth of love behind this word, or it's impact on our lives daily.

Andy Stanley breaks down the concept of Grace, making it understandable and adding value and impact in his newest book.  Throughout this book, he breaks down familiar bible characters, their stories, and the way God shed grace on them, giving them what they did not deserve.  People like Joseph, who started a lowly shepherd and went on to rule a nation; Jonah, who turned his back on God several times; and Adam and Eve, at the start of it all, receiving grace in the midst of complete disobedience.

God's grace is not fair, and Andy Stanley shows how this tilted scale only demonstrates God's love for us all the more.  While not a sit down and read cover to cover book for me, I could take it one chapter a day.  A lot of depth and cause for pause and consideration is required to truly get the full impact.  I truly love this book for it's ability to give me a deeper look into who God is and to help me understand grace in a new light.  A book not for the light reader, but highly recommended for all Christians to read at least once.

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.”

Heaven is For Real

Heaven is for Real
A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back
By Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent

What an amazing story.  So riveting and engaging I found myself reading the entire book in a 24 hour time span, mostly in the evening after my baby was in bed for the night.  The chapters are short, but once into the book (and it doesn't take long), the chapters pass by without notice as the story just flows.

I found myself amazed at the story of this little boy and his family, heartbroken at their struggles and intrigued by the proclamations and statements of this small child after an illness that nearly took his life.  Having read other books about visits to and from Heaven by others, I anticipated it would be similar, yet this book is entirely different.  Each claim little Clayton made his father (the author) could back up with scripture references upon investigation.

While some may claim this is another hoax or story, I truly believe this encounter took place and is an encouragement and challenge to all Christians.  What a glimpse of Heaven I have been provided and through the innocent eyes of a child... the little ones Christ calls us to be like in our faith.  A definite recommendation for all readers - you will find yourself amazed and challenged, your eyes opened to possibilities and your hope and desire for our Heavenly home renewed.

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.”

Really Wolly Bible Stories

Really Wolly Bible Stories
by Bonnie Rickner Jensen
Illustrated by Julie Sawyer Phillips

Such an adorable little book of Bible stories, perfect for infant up to 4-5 years.  Stories are very short and to the point, easy to understand words and engaging pictures to acompany the story.  Key words are in pink, offering opportunity for discussion as they are often bigger words, or words a child might be unfamiliar with.  Stories in this book include creation, Abraham, the 10 Commandments, Jonah and so many more.  16 stories in all, with an introduction and a prayer at the end.

A board book with a padded front cover, this book is sturdy for little hands, resilient and able to put up with drool and food, along with whatever else a child might smear on it.  Illustrations are pastels mostly, cheery and soft, with cute animal characters and friendly looking people.  Multiple races are represented in pictures.  Each story has a reference to where the complete story can be found in the Bible.

Highly recommended!  A cute little story book just long enough to hold short little attention spans, put up with abuse, conform to little hands and convey a message within a familar Bible story.  A great gift and welcome addition to any children's library collection. 
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.”

Transforming Church in Rural America

Transforming Church in Rural America
By Shannon O'Dell


A book aimed at pastors and church leaders, this book is appropriate for all church atenders wanting to make a difference and grow.  Pastor Shannon O'Dell shares with readers his journey from a mega church to the middle of nowhere in a small church of older attenders.  Through the challenges of removing "sacred cows", making improvements, drawing in new attenders and creating leadership with little or no budget, O'Dell shares ways to win with your own church.  Having grown his small rural church to a 5 campus church with internet and satellite locations, O'Dell has valuable and applicable advice to offer that is easy to institute in any church.  Whether a rural church with 12 attenders or a large church in the middle of the city, there are hits and tips, ideas and attack plans for each person willing to be a leader, apply V.A.L.U.E. principles and strive to become better in order to reach more. 

Highly recommended.  With personal stories woven among teaching and encouragement, this book is easy to read and full of resources that are readily accessible.
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.”

God's Promises for Women of Faith

God's Promises for Women of Faith
by Jack Countryman

This little gift book is handy for packing in a gift basket or in the luggage of someone traveling.  Small and compact but full of encouragement and scripture references.  Specifically targeted toward women of faith, topics include encouragement, growth, blessing, teaching, comfort and more.  Each promise is referenced with scripture verses, presented in the King James Version, to add in possibility for quick reference or for further study. 

Perfect as a companion for daily scripture reading, the promises in this book offer insight and encouragement to all women, helping in prayer and worship.  A nice little book to give as a gift, this book can be useful to both believers and non-believers.  Chapters are organized and easy to read through.  Not among the top books on my list of study companions or spiritual growth texts, it is, nevertheless, a well written and thought out book with pure intentions, portraying Christ's message to all readers in calming words and ways.  My recommendation for this book is to those who would first read it before gifting it to be assured it is right for the intended receiver in scripture language as KJV can be less clear as opposed to NIV versions of scripture.
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.”

A Leader's Heart

A Leader's Heart
365-Day Devotional Journal
by John C. Maxwell

John Maxwell again provides a book with purpose, encouragement, growth and strength in this devotional.  Focused toward leaders, this devotional/journal offers a wealth of topics that are relevant, including teamwork, mentoring, stewardship and success.  With space for writing beneath each short devotional, this book packs in the power of two.  An attractive cover and page artwork, a beautiful book all around.

Each devotional begins with a bible verse to focus the reader on the topic.  Following this is a short quote, poem, or paragraph offering food for thought to go along with the bible verse.  A short prompt is given to begin each journal space.  Each page is dated, and each month is separated by a page, making it easier to find a date within each month.  Motivating and encouraging, with clear and concise statements and truths, this devotional/journal is a great gift for any leader in your life.  Appropriate for male or female, God's principles in the area of leadership are presented in a way that lifts up the leader and promotes further growth in personal and business life.  This book is great for any reader, easy to follow and read.  Highly recommended!
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.”

The King's Christmas List

The King's Christmas List
by Eldon Johnson, Illustrated by Bonnie Leick

This is a fairy tale type story with realistic morals and lessons to be learned.  Recommended for children ages 4-8, this book is appropriate for young children with the availability of an adult for discussion and explanation. 

A cute story on the surface, deeper meanings are to be discovered as the reader follows Emma and her talking dog Shu-Shu as they go to the king's party. Upon receiving the invitation, Emma searches for a gift for the king.  As she travels to the party, she is faced with decisions that affect the gift she is carrying and present her with a lesson in giving and helping others.

The title is a bit misleading as there is no mention of the king's list, possibly not the best choice of titles for this book.  However, the message is sound.  Illustrations are bright and cheery, but average to good at best, nothing that stands out as memorable in my mind.  The story is whimsical and pleasant, a Christmas story with a non-religious front that still presents valuable lessons and morals for the child through the discovery of learning to give to others and the joy in doing so.  Overall, I do recommend this book as it is a harmless story with a good purpose.

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.”

Good Morning, Lord

Good Morning, Lord
I Don't Know Where You're Going Today But I'm Going with You
By Sheila Walsh

In this gift book, Sheila Walsh encourages the reader to delight in each day as an adventure in trusting a faithful God."  A devotional for women, this book uses real life situations that are often faced by women to encourage trust in God.  With room for journaling and reflection and questions to prompt such thoughts, this book acts as a daily encourager and pause for reflection amid the daily chaos of life.

Walsh offers hope through her word, uplifting encouragement and fosters growth and trust in God.  Useful as a personal study or even in small groups and bible studies, this book offers great possibility for women of all ages and stages of life. With short chapters, easy to read text, engaging thoughts and encouraging words, this book can be a strength in times of weakness.  Spiritual truths are conveyed in non-threatening and simple ways that any reader, regardless of their stage in their faith and trust in God can learn and grow, from non-believer to the most seasoned Christian.

This book will become a part of my devotional and study book collection and be on my list of books to both recommend and give to friends, family and other women in my life.

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.”

A Christmas Prayer

A Christmas Prayer
by Amy Parker, Illustrated by Marijan Ramljak

This children's book is the perfect Christmas story for young children.  It is filled with capturing illustrations that will engage young children, filled with rhymes and pictures that draw young eyes and ears.  Most appropriate for ages 2-5 years, older children can enjoy reading it as well.  A padded boardbook, it is perfect for young hands, sturdy and well constructed.

On a snowy Christmas night, a young child goes from place to place in his home, praying and thanking God, ending with thanks for the best Christmas gift, Jesus.  The message is presented in a way that is interesting to young eyes and ears, while not boring to the older reader.  Illustrations are soft and clear, drawing the eye from scene to scene, including major Nativity characters.  The message of the ultimate Christmas gift - Jesus - is presented in a way young readers can understand while still sharing a spiritual message.  Highly recommended for all homes with young children, even those with infants who can grow into loving this book.

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.”

Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions For Kids

Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions For Kids
by Sarah Young

This children's devotional is appropriate for a varied audience age range.  While recommended for ages 4-8, children up to 12 or 13 can benefit from this book, maybe even more so than 4 and 5 year olds.  A versatile book that will last for years in any home.  Each day of the year has its own page, making it great for daily personal study for the child, or as an addition to table or family devotions.  

Each devotional starts with a topic appropriate bible verse, preceding the devotional text.  There are additional verses following the study, encouraging the child to "Read on Your Own", promoting further study for the more advanced ages.  For the reading child, this book, and especially the "Read on Your Own" section promotes spiritual growth and encourages a deeper walk with Christ.  For the non-reading child, this book provides an opportunity for parents to spend time daily encouraging and teaching their child to get into the Bible and grow in their walk with Jesus while reading and discussing the devotional with them each day.

Well organized an in a language appropriate for young children, yet deep enough to encourage discussion and learning, this devotional would make a great learning and growing tool in any home, providing discussion topics, family time and personal growth.

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.”

Immanuel's Veins

Immanuel's Veins
by Ted Dekker


Set in 1772, two warriors of Catherine the Great - empress of Russia set out on a mission to protect a family of political interest. The Cantemir family, consisting of mother and breathtaking twin daughters are the seemingly easy charges to be protected, yet the warriors soon find themselves in over their heads. Both warriors and daughters find themselves entangled in a web of love, temptation, desire and sacrifice that lead them into darker places than they ever imagined. The results of their choices reveal a reality none could imagine and an ending that leaves readers breathless.

Once again, Ted Dekker has penned another novel that leaves heads spinning. Plot twists and character connections (for avid follower and readers of other Dekker novels) reveal themselves in hidden ways throughout the story. A suspenseful novel with swirls of darkness, romance and the underlying theme of love and sacrifice feed the reader's addiction and leave them begging for more. Thought provoking ideas prompt reflection and deeper consideration of one's own life.

Highly recommended to all readers, this book inspires and challenges faith while entertaining and drawing the reader into a spiral of addiction to the words of Ted Dekker.

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.”

Outlive Your Life

Outlive Your Life
by Max Lucado

In the world outside our own, suffering, sickness, sadness, poor living conditions and death are among the daily experiences our fellow humans face.  Max Lucado provides a new perspective on what it means to be a Christian and live in a world where there is so much hurting.  Readers are encouraged to consider all they have and what they might be able to give to use their life to the fullest for others.

Max Lucado writes in a way that is easy to read, full of lyrical images and flowing words that carry the reader away into the mind of the writer.  The concepts and ideas are prevented in a non-confrontational yet challenging way that causes the reader to consider the impact they could be making in the name of Christ.  With witty stories and illustrations, short chapters and easy to read format, this book easily becomes a coffee table book, bible study or devotional.  Biblical references appear throughout, adding credence to Max's words and giving the reader pause when considering God's true plan and what we who are blessed can do to help.  Most encouraging is the fact that 100% of profits go to World Vision, a noble and worthy cause.

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.”

Permission to Speak Freely: Essays and Art on Fear, Confession, and Grace

Permission to Speak Freely
Essays and Art on Fear, Confession, and Grace
by Anne Jackson

In a sea of brokenness, Anne Jackson breaks the silence by sharing her journey through life, allowing the reader to see honestly into her hurts, addictions and questions. She challenges the reader to consider their own secrets and the possibility of speaking about these things, whether taboo or looked down upon, and doing so freely with the confidence that one might be allowing another with the same hurts and issues a chance to follow their lead. Through essays, poetry and artwork, Anne shares thoughts and responses herself and others have shared related to the question, “What is the one thing you feel you can’t say in the church?”


A little outside of the box in format, Anne’s book is easy to read and follow. Challenging ideas and stories bring about a self-reflective thought process while reading. While a Christian, Anne frankly shares her insider’s view of the way the church seems to handle shushed topics and challenges readers to consider their actions when hearing confessions of another. Whether a church attender or not, any reader can get insightful and helpful information from reading this book in a non-threatening and non-preaching way. Recommended for all adult readers as it addresses an issue everyone has faced, brokenness and the grace we all desire and need to feel accepted.

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.”

One Hand, Two Hands

One Hand, Two Hands
by Max Lucado, Illustrated by Gaby Hansen

This is an adorable Children's Book that is sure to be a favorite in any home.  A little girl goes through her day learning of all the ways she can use her hands... from petting a dog and buttoning a button to writing a letter and washing dishes.  The story helps children learn about many of the things they can do with their hands in helpful and kind ways in a fun, bright and rhyming singsong format that appeals to young readers.  Appropriate for ages 3-8, but great for younger and older as well. 

With a discussion section in the back of this book and a list of suggested things children can do with their hands, this book becomes more than just a quick story.  The illustrations are engaging and colorful, with softer colors and engaging tones.  Words are in varied fonts, drawing eyes to different places on the page.
With a final suggestion that hands are used for praying, this book shows it spiritual message, yet is not overtly religious and is appropriate for all children.  Highly recommended to all families with young children, this book is easy to read, fun to look at and has a great teaching message in a fun format.

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.”

FTC Regulations Compliance

FTC Regulations Compliance


To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, please mention as part of every Web or retail site review that Thomas Nelson has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book or advanced reading copy. For example:

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.”

Children's Book/Gift Book Review Guidelines

Children’s Books/Gift Books


First and foremost, we want nothing but complete honesty in your reviews. If you loved a title, that’s great! That’s what we are striving for at Thomas Nelson. We want to consistently produce quality products for readers of all ages. If you didn’t enjoy a certain book, well that’s great as well! Of course we want every title to be a home run with readers, but when they aren’t we want to know why. The only way we can continue to bring our readers consistent and quality material is to receive honest and unbiased feedback from them. We’re not asking for positive reviews in return for free review materials. We’re asking for complete objectivity.

We ask that you keep your reviews under 200 words if at all possible. This word count allows you to be informative without being too informative. We want your reviews to be read and most people tend to shy away from long reviews. Here is our recommendation for the structure of each review:

Title: For the title of your post please include the title of the book and the name of the author and illustrator (e.g. Moon Shines Down by Margaret Wise, Illustrated by Linda Bleck)

Summary (50-100 words): Please make sure your summary is in the first few sentences of the review.

•Be sure and designate what type of product this is (Children’s Book or Gift Book).

•What is the story about? What is the message/purpose of the product?

•What age groups is the story appropriate for?

Your Reactions (100-150 words)

•Is the message of the product presented in a clear and interesting manner?

•What are your thoughts on the quality of the illustrations?

•Did the author(s) present a strong, spiritual message?

•Would you recommend this product to others?

You can see an example of both the structure and content of a quality children’s book review here:
http://geaux2girl.blogspot.com/2008/11/new-childhood-classic-in-making-for.html

Please sign in to your account at http://booksneeze.com/ and post the link to your review. If at all possible, be sure to provide the specific link to the post where your review is found.

After you’ve posted the review on your blog and our website, post your review on at least one consumer site such as Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, or Christianbook.com. To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, please mention as part of every Web or retail site review that Thomas Nelson has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book or advanced reading copy.

Bible Review Guidelines

Bibles


First and foremost, we want nothing but complete honesty in your reviews. If you loved the layout and structure of a particular Bible, that’s great! That’s what we are striving for at Thomas Nelson. We want to consistently produce Bibles that are not only accessible, but informative and conducive to quality Bible study. If you didn’t enjoy a certain type of Bible, please tell readers why! We’re not asking for positive reviews in return for free review materials. We’re asking for complete objectivity.

We do not expect you to read the entire Bible for this review. We recommend you pick one of you favorite books of the Bible to read and get a feel for the Bible.

We ask that you keep your reviews under 200 words if at all possible. This word count allows you to be informative without being too informative. We want your reviews to be read and most people tend to shy away from long reviews. Here is our recommendation for the structure of each review:

Title:  For the title of your post please include the name of the particular Bible you are reviewing and the version (e.g. The Chronological Study Bible, NKJV)

Description of Content (50-100 words): Please make sure your description is in the first few sentences of the review.

•What kind of Bible is it? (Study Bible, Daily Reading Bible, Children’s Bible, etc).

•What kind of special content (if any) is in this Bible? (Commentary, Family Content, Devotionals, Maps, Indexes, Concordance, etc.)

•What version is it? (NIV, TNIV, NASB, NKJV, etc).

Your Reactions (100-150 words)

•What are you overall feelings towards this particular Bible? Is it easy to use?

•Are the study tools helpful and informative? Does the commentary convey Biblical truth?

•Is the Bible durable?

•Do you like/dislike the typeface and print in general?

•Would you recommend this particular Bible to others?

You can see an example of both the structure and content of a quality Bible review here:
http://stepuptothecall.blogspot.com/2008/12/review-nkjv-chronological-study-bible.html

Please sign in to your account at http://booksneeze.com/ and post the link to your review. If at all possible, be sure to provide the specific link to the post where your review is found.

After you’ve posted the review on your blog and our website, post your review on at least one consumer site such as Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, or Christianbook.com. To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, please mention as part of every Web or retail site review that Thomas Nelson has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book or advanced reading copy.

Non-Fiction Review Guidelines

Non-Fiction


First and foremost, we want nothing but complete honesty in your reviews. If you loved a title, that’s great! That’s what we are striving for at Thomas Nelson. We want to consistently produce quality non-fiction that inspires, informs, and challenges readers. If you didn’t enjoy a certain book, well that’s great as well! Of course we want every title to be a home run with readers, but when they aren’t we want to know why. The only way we can continue to bring our readers consistent and quality non-fiction is to receive honest and unbiased feedback from them. We’re not asking for positive reviews in return for free review materials. We’re asking for complete objectivity.
We ask that you keep your reviews under 200 words if at all possible. This word count allows you to be informative without being too informative. We want your reviews to be read and most people tend to shy away from long reviews. Here is our recommendation for the structure of each review:

Title: For the title of your post please include the title of the book and the author (e.g. For the Tough Times by Max Lucado)

Summary (50-100 words): Please make sure your summary is in the first few sentences of the review.

•What is this book about? What’s the overall gist of the message or topic?

•Summarize the message of the book in 3 or 4 sentences.

Your Reactions: (100-150 words)

* Was this book interesting to you? Did it challenge, inspire, or enlighten you in any way?
* Did the author(s) make you think? Did the author(s) hold your attention?
* Was the information presented in a cohesive, yet appealing manner?
* Did the author(s) successfully convey Biblical truth?
* Would you recommend this book to others?

You can see an example of both the structure and content of a quality non-fiction review here:
http://deenasbooks.blogspot.com/2009/01/for-these-tough-times-by-max-lucado.html

Please sign in to your account at http://booksneeze.com/ and post the link to your review. If at all possible, be sure to provide the specific link to the post where your review is found.

After you’ve posted the review on your blog and our website, post your review on at least one consumer site such as Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, or Christianbook.com. To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, please mention as part of every Web or retail site review that Thomas Nelson has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book or advanced reading copy.

Fiction Review Guidelines

Fiction


First and foremost, we want nothing but complete honesty in your reviews. If you loved the story, that’s great! That’s what we are striving for at Thomas Nelson. We want to consistently produce quality fiction that inspires, entertains, and challenges readers. If you didn’t enjoy a certain novel, well that’s great as well! Of course we want every title to be a home run with readers, but when they aren’t we want to know why. The only way we can continue to bring our readers consistent and quality fiction is to receive honest and unbiased feedback from them. We’re not asking for positive reviews in return for free review materials. We’re simply asking for complete objectivity.

We ask that you keep your reviews under 200 words if at all possible. This word count allows you to be informative without being too informative. We want your reviews to be read and most people tend to shy away from long reviews. Here is our recommendation for the structure of each review:

Title: For the title of your post please include the title of the book and the author (e.g. House of Dark Shadows by Robert Liparulo)

Summary (50-100 words): Please make sure your summary is in the first few sentences of the review.

•What’s the story about? How would you describe this story to someone in 3 or 4 sentences?

•Be careful not to give away major plot points, twists, or surprise endings.

Your Reactions (100-150 words): Let us know what you liked and didn’t like about the novel.

•Was the story suspenseful, frightening, or romantic? How did it make you feel?

•Consider story elements such as plot, character development, dialogue, description, and scene. What worked and what didn’t?

•Was the overall message inspiring? Were you challenged in your faith? Were you entertained?

•Would you recommend this novel to others?

Please keep in mind that we prefer our fiction reviews to be spoiler free. We don’t want to take away from someone’s reading experience. If you think a line or a sentence from you review is too revealing it’s usually best to omit it or rewrite it.

You can see an example of both the structure and content of a quality fiction review here: http://myreadingfrenzy.wordpress.com/2008/12/07/the-unseen/

Please sign in to your account at http://booksneeze.com/ and post the link to your review. If at all possible, be sure to provide the specific link to the post where your review is found.

After you’ve posted the review on your blog and our website, post your review on at least one consumer site such as Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, or Christianbook.com. To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, please mention as part of every Web or retail site review that Thomas Nelson has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book or advanced reading copy.

Free Stuff

These are the top websites I follow for free samples and products as well as coupons, discounts and deals:

Freebies
Free Samples Blog
Free Grabber
Walmart
My Savings
Shop 4 Freebies
Hey! It's Free
Free Stuff Times
Just Free Stuff
Sweet Free Stuff

Deals, Coupons, Discounts
Fat Wallet
Slick Deals
My Savings
Deal Taker
E-Coupons
Hip 2 Save

My mailbox is nearly always full of free stuff, including food, pet products, infant and child products, magazines, health and beauty products, coupons, etc.  Getting the mail is truly fun as I never know what I am going to get, but can pretty much rest assured that if there is a bill, it will be off set by the joy of my next free item.  It is like Christmas when I open the mailbox door.  I never know what will be inside, but I can bet that it will be something good!