Nonfiction

Review of The Candle Classic Bible

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Genre: Children’s Bible

Recommended.

This is a great Bible for 7-12 year olds, depending on the child’s reading and comprehension level. Younger children may also enjoy being read the stories, but the realistic-looking pictures may not engage little ones as well as it would older “tweens” and “pre-teens.” There are 365 stories–one for every day of the year–with each story being only about half a page (one column). The stories are age appropriate, not overly detailed, and cohesively pull together the biblical chronology.

In fact, between the Old Testament (ending chronologically with Nehemiah and the rebuilding of the temple) and the New Testament (beginning with Zechariah and Elizabeth) is a story called, “Many Years of Trouble,” to tie those events together with a brief historical overview of the Roman conquest and the Jewish need for Messiah. I really appreciate this acknowledgement of the historical setting. Younger readers can use this Bible to grasp the full outline of Scripture, so that when they are ready to read the Scriptures for themselves, they will understand how it all fits together.

I also appreciate the quality of this Bible. The binding is excellent. The pictures are accurate, realistic, and look great. And overall, it is just a really well-made book. It would be perfect as a gift Bible (and it does include a presentation page for this purpose). The Table of Contents is also particularly well done: broad topics are in bold (e.g. The Story of Creation, The Story of Noah, and so on) and each daily story is listed underneath the overarching topic. The lives and ministries of key figures like Moses, David, and Jesus are broken down into many stories (days), while other figures/events have only a handful. It is hard to read only one story a day, since they fit together so well in telling the captivating story of our faith.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications.

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Review of The Lifestyle of a Prophet: A 21-Day Journey to Embracing Your Calling by James W. Goll

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Genre: Devotional/Christian Life

Highly Recommended!

If you are looking for a meaty devotional this would be an excellent choice! I am usually not a fan of devotional books, but this one was so deep that I took the time to read just one section a day rather than rushing through it.

James Goll breaks down the lifestyle of a prophet in three sections: the lifestyle of intimacy, the lifestyle of wisdom, and the lifestyle of revelation. The progression of his teaching guides the reader to connect with God and develop strong character before beginning to intentionally work in the prophetic gifts (or really any gifting). While some devotional books seem to have passages that are only present to meet the required number of days, this one has no wasted words. It is a monograph hidden in popular devotional form. Goll teaches through stories, expounds upon the Scriptures, and ends each chapter (day) with a prayer and introspective questions. (And his questions are really good ones! I found myself learning and growing a lot from my reflection upon the questions alone).

Not only does The Lifestyle of a Prophet teach and direct about the gift of prophecy, it allows readers time and guidance to contemplate their own positions of intimacy with God and activity within their callings. This is not a devotional for those gifted in prophecy only; it is a resource for connecting deeply with Him so that His heart is naturally expressed from the believer’s life (and that, essentially is the essence of the prophetic). That said, this is first and foremost a devotional, so the focus is on personal growth rather than being a simple introductory teaching tool.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Chosen.

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Review of Defending the Faith: Apologetics in Women’s Ministry by Mary Jo Sharp

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Genre: Christian Life/Women’s Issues/Apologetics

Highly Recommended.

Female apologist, Mary Jo Sharp, demonstrates how apologetics is not simply defending our beliefs or arguing with adverse perspectives, but in learning how to think for ourselves to understand what we truly believe about God and the Bible and why. Those who are confident in what they believe, and who have honestly thought about what they know, can begin to live what they believe, talk openly about faith issues with others, and have a more enriching personal relationship with the Lord.

Sharp reveals the great need for apologetics to be integrated with women’s ministry, and shares her observations of its many benefits. Then, she illustrates some of the ways to get started in bringing together these two important ministries.

When the women of the church have learned to think and study the Christian faith for themselves, they can actively engage each other and non-Christians in thought-provoking conversation: listening, asking questions, and continuously refining their own faiths without fear of not knowing enough, or being proved wrong. My favorite section of the book, in fact, was in how to use questions to listen attentively, and love others, without becoming defensive or overly emotional about defending ones own opinions. In this way, all participants in the conversation are held accountable to what they say and believe, and the conversation becomes a journey for exploring the important issues with more depth.

I am an avid learner and seminary student who is already sold on the high importance of apologetics in ministry, but until reading this, I had honestly not considered that there should be a consistent merger between apologetic study and women’s ministry. It is a thin book, but one that has changed the way I think about apologetics, the needs within women’s ministry, and even of my own approach to evangelism.

My only criticism is that the cover art does not reflect the freshness of Sharp’s ideas and presentation. While apologetics has (among many people) certain connotations of being a stagnant academic field of archaic arguments–somewhat like the statue in the picture–this beneficial manual could be the catalyst for many to begin loving the Lord with all the heart, soul, and mind; and to create a new excitement for living out and sharing ones faith.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications.

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Review of Chasing Francis: A Pilgrim’s Tale by Ian Morgan Cron

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Genre: Wisdom Literature/Christian Life

Highly Recommended.

Evangelical mega church pastor, Chase Falson, has lost his faith after the death of a young girl in his congregation. His learned answers for why things happen as they do, who God is, and what God wants from the church are no longer enough for him. After an embarrassing emotional breakdown mid-sermon, he is encouraged to take time off from church to gather himself. He uses the time to visit his Uncle Kenny, a Franciscan priest in Italy, who takes him on a pilgrimage through the monumental places and moments in the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. Along his journey he questions his own faith, what the contemporary Christianity should look like, and how the church should evangelize in this postmodern age.

Saint Francis of Assisi contributed so dramatically to Christianity that most Christians have probably heard something about him whether or not they realize it. He is, for instance, the one often quoted for saying, “Preach the gospel, if necessary, use words.” Cron illustrates St. Francis’ major beliefs seamlessly through this creative mix of fiction and non-fiction, story and biography. As a seminary student, I appreciated the references to many of the people and historical moments I have studied in various theology courses. Cron’s well-researched narrative covers quite a bit of space concisely and gracefully.

More importantly, the author’s natural humor (possibly offensive to very conservative Christians at times) helps the story flow fluidly. It is difficult to write a fiction/non-fiction mix well, but I really enjoyed this one. It is a fun read, with great characters, and the added benefit of teaching a bit of history and theology.

Lastly, the questions naturally addressed through the pilgrimage tale are so important to the church at this time. Whether or not the reader agrees with the position of the author (an Episcopalian priest and advocate of St. Francis’ lifestyle), the narrative will propel the consideration of these important issues, and is outlined to provide an excellent starting point for discussion. My own perspective and background are very different from the author’s, and yet I appreciated his presentation of both Francis and his critique of the condition of many portions of the contemporary church. Also included is one of the most thorough study guides I have encountered, making it a great resource for a Bible study or book club.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Zondervan Publications.

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Review of I’m No Angel: From Victoria’s Secret Model to Role Model by Kylie Bisutti

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Genre: Memoir

Recommended!

This is the perfect book for teenage girls, and woman of all ages who struggle with body image or simply want to enjoy the testimony of one young woman’s transformation through Christ. Kylie shares her early years of struggling to break into a career in modeling, her encounter with the Lord and decision to become a Christian as a High School student, her life and challenges as a model, her fairy tale romance and marriage, her exciting acceptance as a Victoria’s Secret supermodel, and how the Lord transformed her heart to leave her coveted career to become a Proverbs 31 wife and role model.

Kylie expresses her own experiences and body image problems honestly and powerfully. Her behind-the-scenes details about the modeling industry bring to life the error of evaluating ourselves and others by outward appearance alone. Kylie’s message of spiritual transformation is hidden within a diary-like account of her feelings, struggles, and convictions at various personal milestones. Her descriptions of her husband’s patience and support were also really touching. As an adult woman, I was encouraged by her story, although the writing style is accessible and directed more toward a teen audience. She also includes a 30 day devotional make-over: a Bible verse, personal story, two devotional questions, and a “true beauty tip” (short sentence of encouragement) to reflect on each day. Each short exercise helps to build security and confidence of the inner beauty that God wants His daughters to radiate.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Tyndale Blog Network.

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Review of A Rabbi Looks at the Last Days: Surprising Insights on Israel, the End Times, and Popular Misconceptions by Jonathan Bernis

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Genre: Israel/Eschatology/Evangelism

Recommended.

This is an invaluable overview of the history of the Jewish people, and Israel’s place in Scripture and within the last days. But since “end times” has certain connotations, let me begin by listing some of the things which this book is not:

  • It is not an analysis on the timing of the Rapture, nor those details surrounding this event.
  • It is not a guideline to the chronology of eschatological events.
  • It is not an examination the antichrist.
  • It does not provide commentary on the common end time mysteries such as “the mark of the beast” or “the 144,000.”
  • It is not an exposition of the Messianic prophecies.
  • It does not go into detail regarding the current scenario in the Middle East.

Instead of these more usual eschatological focuses, Rabbi Jonathan Bernis breaks down the gospel message beginning in Genesis to show how Israel and the Jewish people are central to God’s end time plans. He explains why Satan hates the Jewish people, and gives insight into the persecutions of the Jews and the miracle of Israel’s survival. He emphasizes evangelism to the Jews from multiple angles, rightly demonstrating how Jewish evangelism and eschatology are interconnected. He explores some of the lesser known signs that the last days are near. Finally, he advises how believers can usher in the Kingdom of God by supporting, praying for, and evangelizing to the worldwide Jewish community.

Bernis’ insights on Israel are excellently and accessibly presented for those believers who are unfamiliar with the Messianic Jewish community and the Jewish roots of the Scriptures, and also for those Jews who have not heard the gospel message that Yeshua is the Jewish Messiah. Those who are well read and accustomed to the Jewish-central gospel may not find as many new insights as the book gives only a broad overview rather than going into much depth.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Chosen Books.

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Review of Judge by R.J. Larson

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Genre: Fantasy

Series: Book Two of the Books of the Infinite Series

Highly Recommended.

Judge is Christian Fantasy at its best. The writing is reminiscent of Tolkien’s style, but more closely parallels the history set forth in the Scriptures.

Destruction is about to come on the city on Parne, but the Infinite calls Prophet Ela Roeh to warn the citizens and urge them to repent and turn their hearts back to Him. Meanwhile, Tracelander Judge, Kien Lantec, is called to step out of his usual role, and prophesy over a city he does not particularly care for. Kien’s feelings for Ela complicate matters as he worries about her while also discovering his own new calling and purposes. Ela, likewise, tries to stifle her feelings for Kien in order to remain focused on the Infinite and her very dangerous mission. It’s a story of romance, action, and suspense, discretely laced with biblical and theological insight.

The story also explores the biblical positions of Prophet and Judge, along with the relationship between the people and their Creator, the Creator’s love and faithfulness amidst disaster, and even the supernatural gifts that are given to those who serve Him. The story has tons of biblical parallels, which I appreciated. And I also found it easy to identify with the characters, and the honesty of their thoughts and experiences.

I do recommend reading this series in order, as I found it a bit difficult to keep the many characters straight in the few few chapters, having not yet read Prophet (the first in the series). I look forward to reading the novels to come.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House.

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Review of Candle Bible for Kids: Toddler Edition by Juliet David illus. Jo Parry

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Genre: Children’s Books/Bibles

Not Recommended.

The quality of this Bible is really nice. I especially like the soft, hardback, “bubble” cover. And the pictures are really cute, with bright, toddler friendly, colors and caricatures.

Unfortunately, the book did not hold my toddler’s attention. He liked some of the pictures, but was very restless every time we attempted to read the story, and asked to read other books instead. He often does enjoy biblical story books, so I was surprised he did not connect well with this one. He did not want to read even one of the very short stories all the way through, despite several tries on different days.

My parent perspective of the book was not much better. This “Bible” seems typical of any other collection of Bible stories. It covers most of the more popular Bible stories, from the creation of the world to Jesus’ ascension. I liked that each page had only one sentence, as long paragraphs are hard for toddlers; and I enjoyed the illustrations, as I mentioned earlier. But, otherwise, there was nothing to make this book stand out to me.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications.

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Review of Heaven Changes Everything by Todd & Sonja Burpo

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Genre: Devotional/Christian Life

Not Recommended.

Heaven Changes Everything is a devotional reader based on the bestselling Heaven is for Real (a young boy’s experience of going to heaven and back). Each of the 42 short chapters begins with a quote from Heaven is for Real, followed by a personal reflection based on that quotation, and ending with a sentence of advise and a Bible verse. Some of the topics focus on heaven, but many are narratives of general Christian living. Overall, the book reads like a blog of reflections on past experiences: candid and personal encouragement about life and God through day-to-day stories.

I felt that this book was “just okay.” I enjoyed reading many of the stories, but didn’t feel it was deep enough or substantial enough to compete with the many other devotional books on the market. I also thought it was odd–considering this is a devotional reader–that each chapter was focused on a quotation from Heaven is for Real, instead of on a scripture or Bible passage. I would have liked to have seen the scripture have a larger part of the message–not that the messages were unbiblical (they weren’t)–but that a focus on scripture can bring an additional layer of wisdom to our personal experiences. The format was such that the scriptures felt like an after-thought, rather than a reflection point. So, despite some of the encouraging context, I don’t feel that Heaven Changes Everything is a resource I can recommend.

I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of the Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogging Program through booksneeze.com.

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Review of Fearless Daughters of the Bible by J. Lee Grady

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Genre: Christian Life/Personal Growth/Gender Studies

Highly Recommended!

Fearless Daughters of the Bible edifies Christian woman to boldness in the Lord through biblical stories integrated with examples from history and personal commentary. Each chapter focuses on a woman from the Bible who had courage in a particular area; for instance: “The Five Daughters of Zelophehad: The Courage to Challenge Tradition,” “Hannah, the Mother of Samuel: The Courage to Believe God,” or “Priscilla, Spiritual Daughter of the Apostle Paul: The Courage to Mentor Others.” The chapters cover a great variety of women and circumstances–some widely known, like Mary, the mother of Jesus, and some lesser known, like Achsah, Daughter of Caleb. There are also questions and a personal message at the end of each chapter, making this an ideal book for an independent or group devotional study.

My favorite chapter was on the Samaritan woman whom Jesus met at the well. I have heard commentary on this story so many times, and yet Grady shared details of the event that I had never considered. I had never realized, for instance, that the well was on the same land where Dinah was raped. I have been learning lately about the deep importance (and spiritual ramifications) of location; so, these details about the land of Samaria added so much to the otherwise familiar account. It also caught my attention that, unless her encounter with Jesus had caused a very visible and distinctive change, this women–who had experienced so much rejection–would never have been believed by so many in her city. And yet, the scriptures show the woman at the well as a successful evangelist, bringing salvation to many by sharing her encounter with the Lord (John 4:39-42).

As cliche as it may be to say: every Christian woman could benefit from this book! It is encouraging, insightful, and lovingly written by a man who greatly desires to edify women in their personal callings. For more information about the author, check out his ministry: The Mordecai Project.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Chosen.

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