Book Review: Heaven and Hell- Are They Real? {BookLook Bloggers}

Heaven and Hell, Are They Real? by Christopher D. Hudson

ISBN: 9781401680251

Paperback, 287 pages

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Retail: $12.99

About the book (from the back cover):

It can be said that the words "heaven" and "hell" are thrown around flippantly these days. It seems they have become part of our vernacular without much thought or concern about what they really mean.

The reality of heaven and hell is a much-debated topic, spurring countless conversations, books, and sermons. It's fashionable to have an opinion about the reality of heaven and hell, but what does the Bible really say? Heaven and Hell: Are They Real? discusses what Scripture really says about these mysterious places, giving you real, solid, reliable information. The book includes Scripture quotes that capture the current interest in the reality of heaven and hell, while offering readings on heaven and hell. Also included are quotes and insights from trusted authors including Billy Graham, Randy Alcorn, C. S. Lewis, and more. For the curious reader looking for more information on heaven and hell, Heaven & Hell: Are They Real? is the perfect choice.

About the author (from Facebook and his blog):

Chris's mission is to help people read, understand, and apply the Bible. He has contributed to over fifty Bible projects, sixty study guides, and over a hundred books. Christopher grew up in Northern New Jersey, attended Eastern Christian High School, and Wheaton College where he met his wife. 

In addition to writing and editing, Chris is passionate about softball and baseball and has coached athletic teams at the youth, high school, and college levels. He's a graduate from Wheaton College (IL) where he served as the Head Softball Coach between 2006-2012. Chris has been an active teacher in his church for nearly twenty years and lives outside Chicago with his wife and three children. 

He is the owner of Hudson & Associates.

My thoughts:

There is much I do not know about both heaven and hell, and I do read the Bible. I'm very hesitant to read a man's works (or woman's) and "believe" their take on these two places. I am a skeptic. After living many years of just believing everything I was told (regardless of the topic), there came a point that I could hear or read but not fall into the thinking so easily. I don't think that is a bad trait to have. I am open-minded, but I'm not as naive as I once was.

As was mentioned in the "About this book," there are quotes from well-known people throughout the book. It borders on almost too much in my opinion. Some of the "well-known" individuals quoted in this book are:

• Billy Graham
• Randy Alcorn
• Joni Tada
• Dave Earley
• C. S. Lewis
• Tony Evans
• Hank Hanegraaff
• Mark Buchanan
• John McArthur
• and so many more

There are a lot of Scriptures included in this book; each new question starts with a verse. A lot of the authors quoted also cite Scripture. The book goes through the areas of
Heaven:

• The moments after death
• Life in heaven
• Descriptions of heaven
• Residents of heaven
• Looking forward to heaven

Hell:

• The reality of hell
• Hell as a choice
• Descriptions of hell
• Hell and the final judgment
• Challenges to the belief in hell
• How can the truth about hell affect our lives today?

Bottom line? I really was not impressed with the amount of men's words included to describe and authenticate heaven and hell. No man has ever seen either of these places, and come back to tell it to others. What is in this book, besides what is quoted from Scripture, is purely speculation. Read the Bible and know that heaven and hell are both real but don't then put a human twist on it to make it what one wants it to be {or not to be}.

I would think that readers who are on the fence about whether or not heaven and hell are 'real' would find this book to be at least thought provoking. I do not see, however, how it makes it any more clear than God's Word itself.  

***Disclaimer: I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers from Thomas Nelson for the sole purpose of an honest review. I am not obligated to write a positive review, but I am required to be honest and professional in my review. See Disclosure/Policies.***

Book Review: The Queen's Handmaid {LitFuse Blog Tour & Giveaway}

The Queen's Handmaid by Tracy L. Higley*
ISBN: 9781401686840
Paperback, 390 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Retail: $15.99

About the book: From the servant halls of Cleopatra's Egyptian palace to the courts of Herod the Great, Lydia will serve two queens to see prophecy fulfilled.

Alexandria, Egypt 39 BC

Orphaned at birth, Lydia was raised as a servant in Cleopatra's palace, working hard to please while keeping everyone at arm's length. She's been rejected and left with a broken heart too many times in her short life.

But then her dying mentor entrusts her with secret writings of the prophet Daniel and charges her to deliver this vital information to those watching for the promised King of Israel. Lydia must leave the nearest thing she's had to a family and flee to Jerusalem. Once in the Holy City, she attaches herself to the newly appointed king, Herod the Great, as handmaid to Queen Mariamme.

Trapped among the scheming women of Herod's political family---his sister, his wife, and their mothers---and forced to serve in the palace to protect her treasure, Lydia must deliver the scrolls before dark forces warring against the truth destroy all hope of the coming Messiah.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/uKKQP

About the Author: Tracy L. Higley started her first novel at age eight and has been hooked on writing ever since. She has authored many novels, includingGarden of Madness and So Shines the Night. Tracy is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Ancient History and has traveled through Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Italy, researching her novels and falling into adventures. 

See Tracy's travel journals and more at: tracyhigley.com

My thoughts:
I rather liked the book. It is set during a very turbulent time in history with a lot of death. Higley writes about this time very well, without overemphasizing the gruesome and instead on a couple of characters. I did not like the way the book ended but I don't really know if it would have been a good idea to continue past the point that she did. Probably not. 

I thought it done well enough that I let my daughter read it as well. One thing that I really liked is the Higley took well-known characters from history and wove them into her story. Another thing is that I didn't really find the book to be 'predictable', even though it is historical fiction and the events actually took place in the past. She kept you guessing what would happen next. 

I liked the book and would recommend it to others. I have also read City on Fire, which I enjoyed as well, by Tracy L. Higley. 

***Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher for free through LitFuse for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own. No compensation was given. This post does contain *affiliate links. See Disclosure/Policies.***

Read more reviews.

And a giveaway:

Tracy L. Higley is celebrating the release of The Queen's Handmaid with a fun giveaway.

Retailers + Resources gave it this glowing review: "Rich in historic detail, Higley’s vivid writing brings to life the plots and intrigues that swirled through the ancient world as alliances were built and broken on the calculated schemes of power-mad monarchs." 

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• The Queen's Handmaid by Tracy L. Higley

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 19th. Winner will be announced April 21st on Tracy's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Tracy's blog on April 21st to see if you won.

Book Review: The Devil Walks in Mattingly {LitFuse Blog Tour}

About the book: For the three people tortured by their secret complicity in a young man's untimely death, redemption is what they most long for . . . and the last thing they expect to receive.

It has been twenty years since Philip McBride's body was found along the riverbank in the dark woods known as Happy Hollow. His death was ruled a suicide. But three people have carried the truth ever since---Philip didn't kill himself that day. He was murdered.

Each of the three have wilted in the shadow of their sins. Jake Barnett is Mattingly's sheriff, where he spends his days polishing the fragile shell of the man he pretends to be. His wife, Kate, has convinced herself the good she does for the poor will someday wash the blood from her hands. And high in the mountains, Taylor Hathcock lives in seclusion and fear, fueled by madness and hatred.

Yet what cannot be laid to rest is bound to rise again. Philip McBride has haunted Jake's dreams for weeks, warning that he is coming back for them all. When Taylor finds mysterious footprints leading from the Hollow, he believes his redemption has come. His actions will plunge the quiet town of Mattingly into darkness. These three will be drawn together for a final confrontation between life and death . . . Between truth and lies.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/ux3hc

About the Author: Billy Coffey's critically-acclaimed books combine rural Southern charm with a vision far beyond the ordinary. He is a regular contributor to several publications, where he writes about faith and life. Billy lives with his wife and two children in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Learn more about Billy at: http://billycoffey.com

My thoughts:

Dark book. It's one of those after I started reading I wondered why I'd chosen it. The beginning of the book is confusing and the reader isn't really given much information as to what is going on. Apparently this book is like the rest of Coffey's books: they are all set in Mattingly. But all can be read as stand-alones. FYI: The Devil Walks in Mattingly is set four years before Coffey's other book, When Mockingbirds Sing. That is a good thing because I'd never even heard of Billy Coffey. However, for those who like a 'good book', this may just be it. The way Coffey writes is gripping. He reaches down into the characters and gives more than just the surface, facade of them. We feel their fears, their hopes, their dreams. We see what they see. Coffey does a very good job at writing. It's just his chosen topic can be a little ...uncomfortable. To me anyway. There are supernatural forces at work in the book. And there are instances of violence although they aren't terribly graphic. 

But the book is so well done that even though I felt it is dark, I kept reading it. I felt that way until somewhere near the middle or three-quarters of the way through. The main characters, Jake and Kate especially, have such a guilt from what they did, or what they contributed to, that it has eaten away at their lives. Other characters include Taylor, who also is tormented by his past, and Lucy, a girl who has spent much of her life simply trying to be loved. They are all connected.

By the end of the book, I enjoyed it much more than at the start. But I think that it is because the way the characters feel- lost, hopeless -comes through in the writing so the reader feels that way as well. Coffey is definitely a good writer. I'd like to read some without the violence and supernatural aspects.

Read other reviews here.

***Disclaimer: I received this book for free from LitFuse for the purpose of an honest review. No compensation was given and all opinions stated are my own. See Disclosure/Policies.***

Book Review: Compass Study Bible {BookLook Bloggers}

Compass: The Study Bible for Navigating Your Life
ISBN: 9781401680305
Hardcover, 1664 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Retail: $19.99

From Thomas Nelson: Compass is about helping you find the answers you’re looking for in the pages of the Scriptures and allowing that truth navigate your life. Packed with Bible-reading helps and using an energizing, new Bible translation, Compass is a Bible designed with you in mind. Do you want to start reading and applying the Bible to your life, but aren’t quite sure where to start? Let Compass point you in the right direction.

Features include:

• In-text notes that include cultural, historical, theological, and devotional thoughts
• God’s Promises®—Thomas Nelson’s bestselling guide to Scripture for your every need
• Book introductions
• Reading plans for every day of the year
• Topical Guides to Scripture and notes
• In-text maps

*This post contains affiliate links*

My thoughts:

A bible...it seems that I collect them. The very first one I can recall owning was a New World Translation {that's the Jehovah's Witness Bible}. Years later I came across an old King James Version (KJV) at a yard sale. I think that was where it started. I own a Geneva Bible, multiple KJVs, a New KJV, New International Version (NIV, 1984), and a New Living Translation (NLT). My kids each have a KJV and an Action Bible {the Bible in artist renditions; comic book format- definitely not my favorite Bible in the house}. 

With all those Bibles, I always go back to the KJV. I do love God's Word.

This new Bible... eh. I am not too much of a fan. Of course, I haven't read the entire book {that was a little joke...}. Here are my thoughts, in no order of importance. I will warn though, I don't have much good to say about it. 

1.) The format is confusing. It's written in 'screenplay format'. The preface says that this is "to avoid the repetition of conjunctions, articles, and certain verbs. (p. vii)" Not all the books are as confusing perhaps because there aren't as many characters in the book, but I am not fond of the screenplay format. {I think it's just an annoyance to me because I don't particularly enjoying reading screenplay. Someone else may find this very appealing.} 

Example: Genesis 35:10-12

God: Your name is Jacob, but you will no longer be known as Jacob. Israel will be your name.

From then on, God addressed him by his new name: Israel.

God: I am the God-All-Powerful.* Be fruitful and multiply. You will give right to a great nation; indeed nation after nation will come from you. Kings and rulers shall be numbered among your descendants. Your children will one day possess the land I promised to Abraham and Isaac.

*35:11 Hebrew, El Shaddai

2.) When I just randomly opened the Bible, it opened to Isaiah. But the issue I have is every page. The font of the Bible names at the top of the page, the little arrow...thing, and the shaded bottom right corner {but not the bottom left corner} just was too much. I didn't understand the need for the arrow at the top of the page nor the shading on only part of one page. I kept looking down at that part of the page; looking for a note or something I needed to read. There isn't generally any 'thing' there. I am very glad the pages are in gray scale; color would drive me insane. 

3.) The inclusion of italicized words, which I am used to in many Bibles, whose purpose in this Bible is to give fuller meaning, or "often provide readers with information that would have been obvious to the original audience (p. vii)," isn't always necessary {imho, of course}. Here's an example:

Genesis 35:29

By the time he took his last breath and joined his ancestors in death, he reached a ripe old age and lived a full life. His sons, Esau and Jacob, buried him.

I suppose it is possible that some would not associate 'ripe old age' with 'full life'. I just found it interesting to omit some words but add in some others {see my first point}. At some points it seemed repetitious and unnecessary. Small thing, I'm sure...

4.) It's soft in some areas. Throughout the book there are notes that give more insight, or that is the intent. But they are not declarative. The marriage between one man and one woman in Genesis is described as the ideal marriage. It does not help people to see any more clearly that it is to be only between one man an done woman. "Ideal" isn't always reality and this is like saying "well, you know, this is how they saw it but uh, things are different now. Your marriage might not be ideal but it can still be a marriage." 

This is where I think the 'compass' is supposed to come in with this book; through those little notes. But its noncommittal stance in some areas makes this a broken compass. The Bible is to show us that we are sinners in need of a Savior. Our salvation is through Jesus Christ alone, his death, burial, resurrection and sitting at the right hand of God. For the most part, I think it does that. From there the Bible shows us how to live the life that is most beneficial to us. It isn't going to say, "well, if you feel like you're doing good, you're okay." 

Some things I *do* like in this Bible include:

1.) There are more "visuals" than I am used to. They have a couple for genealogy, which I've always been fascinated by when reading through the Bible (p. 48 & 66). By 'visual' I just mean they are outside of the text, and highlighted. Another is an explanation of the Hebrew lunar calendar and the corresponding celebrations (p. 101). In Numbers there is a table of the tribes of Israel's censuses, along with the change from one to another (p. 161).  

2.) I do admit that while I don't like the screenplay format, I do like how some emotion has been put into accounts. For instance, reading about Joseph there are exclamation points where I'd expect there to be. It is interesting.

3.) The maps, although they are black and white, are nice and crisp. 

I can't really recommend this Bible but if you'd like to have a look inside, or you're already convinced you want it, you can purchase from Amazon {affiliate link} or Thomas Nelson. Bibles from Thomas Nelson have something interesting: They are "Guaranteed for Life" 

Every Thomas Nelson Bible is crafted with pride and care to serve you for a lifetime. If the Bible you purchased fails because of manufacturing defects, you may return it for a free replacement. If the same Bible is no longer available, it will be replaced with a Bible of the same or greater value. This guarantee does not apply to normal wear and tear.

Disclaimer: I received this free from the BookLook Bloggers program {previously BookSneeze} for the purpose of this review. All opinions stated are my own. See Disclosure/Policies.

Book Review: The Total Money Makeover {Booksneeze}

A Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness by Dave Ramsey

ASIN: B00DNBE8P6

Ebook
Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Retail: $24.99

About the book: 

If you will live like no one else, later you can live like no one else.

Build up your money muscles with America’s favorite finance coach.

Okay, folks, do you want to turn those fat and flabby expenses into a well-toned budget? Do you want to transform your sad and skinny little bank account into a bulked-up cash machine? Then get with the program, people. There’s one sure way to whip your finances into shape, and that’s with The Total Money Makeover: Classic Edition.

By now, you’ve heard all the nutty get-rich-quick schemes, the fiscal diet fads that leave you with a lot of kooky ideas but not a penny in your pocket. Hey, if you’re tired of the lies and sick of the false promises, take a look at this—it’s the simplest, most straightforward game plan for completely making over your money habits. And it’s based on results, not pie-in-the-sky fantasies. With The Total Money Makeover: Classic Edition, you’ll be able to:

Design a sure-fire plan for paying off all debt—meaning cars, houses, everything

Recognize the 10 most dangerous money myths (these will kill you)

Secure a big, fat nest egg for emergencies and retirement!

My thoughts:

...long exhale... This book has some really great information and a formula, if I can call it that, for 'living like no one else so that later you can live like no one else'. I've only heard good things about Ramsey and his books so I was excited to read this book {as much as one can be when reading a book on how to get fit}. It is a very easy book to get into; many real-life stories are included throughout. 

Beginning the book, I was encouraged but as I read on, it was akin to drudgery. It was because of his style, however, not entirely the information he put forward. My not caring particularly for Ramsey's style of writing {and ultimately his advice for financial 'fitness'} began with the myths he was presenting. I understand the myths and agree with him...for the most part. What I didn't like or agree with necessarily was his comebacks for them. How he 'disproved' them. Many times he really didn't. 

For example, "90 Days = Same As Cash" scenario. Ramsey says that that's just not true. Why does he say that? Because most people don't pay it in 90 days. That doesn't make the whole thing wrong, just to those people. We've used the "90 Days = Same As Cash" on a few occasions that were exactly as claimed. The same with credit cards. I do know people who have one and use it responsibly. It can be done; it just isn't often.

Another myth: "I don't have time to work on a budget...etc." His comeback? "You don't have time not to." Of course he does go into more detail in the paragraphs that follow the statement of myth and truth, but still, such a lame comeback didn't win any gold stars with me. Another not so great one: "I can't use cash because it is dangerous; I might get robbed," followed by this: "You are being robbed every day by not using the power of cash." The others in the section are better. 

He does also talk about sacrifice, which I agree with. To a point {of course}. Two things I don't agree with paying cash for and 'settling' for are a reliable car and a safe and dependable house. You can pay cash for those, if you are at that point but if you aren't, I don't agree with not going into debt for those two things. Not extravagance but necessity.

My final negative bits about this book {and then I promise to point out the positives} are in regards to his approach to those who are reading the book. I got the impression I could not possibly be able to manage my money without following his guidelines. I also felt like he was addressing someone who is well, less than smart. He uses the word 'stupid' in the book 31 times {according to my Kindle}; a word that I cannot stand. It's just a personal issue. Talking with my husband while reading the book, he {my husband} said it sounded like those who read the book are desperate. Perhaps that is what it is; I'm not desperate so I didn't like the tone that I must be.

The formula is basically this {all this is from my memory- not to be taken verbatim}: 

1. Save $1,000- fast- this is the basic 'emergency fund' {cut that to $500 if one makes less than $20000 a year}
2. Debt Snowball- list debts smallest to largest and work on paying them off in that order
3. Finish the Emergency Fund- this is a 3-6 months of expenses fund- it depends on individual situations
4. Invest 15% of Income in Retirement
5. Save for College- for your kids
6. Pay Off Your Home Mortgage

And it is to be done in that order. If something happens while you are in step 4 and your emergency fund is, well, defunded, you go back to the step where you build it back up. 

The positives of this book are that he is right on about many of the money and debt myths that people often believe. You don't have to have a credit card to live life. Debt is not a 'given', at least not in the way that many people believe it. There are so many, too many, who when they reach retirement have nothing and must still work, and work hard, to get by. The stories of real-life people, couples and single, and families throughout the book is very encouraging. It helps readers identify. 

I like the idea of paying cash whenever possible and without reading this book I probably wouldn't have really contemplated it more than a passing thought. It is doable and makes a lot of sense to me. The 'emergency fund' is so important! We had a few 'emergencies' {fortunately none life threatening} in 2012 that prevented us from taking a family trip that we'd planned for a couple years. If we'd had that fund in place, we would have been good to go. 

Overall, I think it is a good book and program. He has much sound advice and many have followed the program, and others he has put out, with much success. I think it's a book that one would need to read themselves to see if it is going to benefit them. 

***Disclaimer: I received this ebook from Thomas Nelson via BookSneeze for free for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own. See Disclosure/Policies. ***

Book Review: City on Fire {Booksneeze}

City on Fire: A Novel of Pompeii by Tracy L. Higley {affiliate link}
ASIN: B00C5QA6H4
Ebook, 386 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Release date: September 17, 2013

About the book (from booksneeze):

As Vesuvius churns, a slave girl-turned-gladiator joins forces with an unlikely source to seek justice.

In the coastal town of Pompeii, a new gladiator prepares to fight. But this gladiator hides a deadly secret: she’s a runaway Jewish slave girl named Ariella, disguised as a young boy. A savvy fighter, Ariella determines to triumph in the arena, knowing her life will be forfeit should anyone uncover the truth.

Cato, a wealthy politician, moved to Pompeii after tiring of the corruption in Rome. But he soon learns that Pompeii is just as corrupt, and if he doesn’t play the game, his family could pay the price. Determined to bring about justice for the citizens of Pompeii, Cato searches for allies. But what he discovers instead is a confounding group of Christians . . . and a young female gladiator whose fame is growing daily.

Political unrest reaches a boiling point as Christians are jailed and executed, and the mountain in the distance threatens to destroy the city with its river of fire. Cato and Ariella must act quickly and courageously to save their loved ones before all is lost.

My thoughts:

I really like historical fiction. In the recent years I've started reading Christian historical fiction and am enjoying them as well. As can be understood from the book summary above, the setting is primarily Pompeii. The start of the book gives a glimpse of Jerusalem, in 70 AD, at the time of the destruction of the Temple.  Next we see Rome, just a glimpse. Only one chapter each, they set the stage for the rest of the book.

The main character, Ariella, is one of only two to survive of her family of five. She is separated from her brother and sold into slavery. For nine years she is a slave of Valerius- a disgusting man who revels in idolatry and evil deeds. The book is very very discreet on the rituals that Valerius and those like him participate in and I am so grateful. I don't see the need for books to be graphic with filth. Higley does well to paint the picture without sordid details. One night Ariella has had enough of the life she's lived and runs away to become a gladiator. Women aren't gladiators, of course, so she disguises herself as a man. The men she travels with are too dull to figure out her secret!

Meanwhile, in Pompeii the other main character, Cato, had just started his new life with his mother and younger sister. Another sister, Portia, had been living in the city for a few years prior with her husband. We get the idea that Cato was actually running from his political past. Either I skimmed too quickly or the details were sketchy, but I don't know exactly what went wrong in his career in Rome that caused him to leave. We are just given the impression that it didn't turn out so well and he's trying to start fresh. 

One thing about Cato, though, is he's different. He is not a Christian at the start of this book {oh, did I give something away there?} but he is good. He avoids, for the most part, vile deeds and debauchery. He doesn't enjoy things that other Romans are particular to; he chooses not to. He does however seem to have an unhealthy fascination with the gladiator games. Anyway, it is his determination to be good that makes him seek out justice; just the thing that is lacking in Pompeii when he arrives. The city is controlled by Maius, a despicable specimen of a human! 

And that is where I will leave off with telling about the book because I don't want to give too much away. If the person reading the book has any knowledge of the behavior of people in cities such as Rome and Pompeii during this time, they will understand many of the references, without needing much in the way of details. Most know of the pagan practices of these cities so I think that readers will understand what's going on although I didn't feel Higley gave much detail in the practices. Thankfully!

I did feel that the characters were well developed and I got a sense of 'who' they were. Later in the book we are introduced to Jeremiah, Europa, Seneca, Nigidia (Maius' daughter), and others. Each one we can get a sense of their personality and such by the picture Higley paints of them. The Christian aspect of it was woven throughout almost seamlessly. There are times when characters are angry with God, bewildered and confused, and other times on their knees searching for Him and asking for guidance. It is true with real life!

The one thing I did not particularly care for was there are a few instances where the plot (?) just goes back and forth, back and forth. I almost skimmed a few sections because of the repetitive back and forth. I think those parts could have been done somewhat better. Near the end I about went crazy with this problem (Ariella and Cato are rushing to save people in Pompeii- but they have to make multiple trips to the same places; it just drove me batty). 

The beginning of the book has a word bank. If you have this book on Kindle, you won't need the list most of the time. Just highlight a word and the dictionary will tell you the meaning. There are a couple that it doesn't have a definition for and then that word list comes in handy. The back of the book has "The Story Behind the Story..and Beyond" which I thought was interesting. Many of the character names are ones that were truly in Pompeii! Tracy Higley's website has images of her travels to Pompeii, and other places. After the behind the story chapter is a Reading Group Guide that contains 16 questions that are good and some deeper than I expected. 

I enjoyed this book and would like to read more of Tracy Higley's works. I really appreciated the scenes she painted with what I consider historical accuracy (as best I can from my limited knowledge) as well as her tact in covering sensitive topics. There is 'romance' in this book but it's not mooshy. It's old fashioned. There are a few kisses on cheeks and hands, and more than few very subtle references to other acts but none we are given any real details about. Given the time period and subject matter, I felt it very well done. 

***Disclaimer: I received this book from Booksneeze for free for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own. No compensation was given. This post does contain affiliate links. See Disclosure/Policies.***

Book Review: Surprised by Laughter

Surprised by Laughter: The Comic World of C. S. Lewis by Terry Lindvall, Ph.D
ISBN: 978-1595554789
Paperback, 496 pages (includes notes, bibliography, etc)
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Retail: $16.99

From the back cover: For C. S. Lewis, merriment was serious business, and like no book before it, Surprised by Laughter explains why. Author Terry Lindvall takes readers on a highly amusing and deeply meaningful journey through the life and letters of one of the most beloved Christian thinkers and writers. As Lindvall shows, the unique magic of Lewis’s approach was his belief that explosive and infectious joy dwells deep in the heart of Christian faith. Readers can never fully understand Lewis, his life, or his legacy until they learn to laugh with him.

Personally, reading that description did not prepare me for this book. The scope of the book is somewhat touched on when it says “a highly amusing and deeply meaningful journey” but perhaps the sentence should have been in bold, italicized and perhaps in a larger font for emphasis. Lindvall mentions at the start that he hopes

“that in placing Lewis on the operating table we will not merely handle the organs, tissues, and entrails of the subject of laughter, but we will also see the risible body itself awaken and laugh and cause us to laugh with the surprise of encountering something so unexpectedly and wonderfully alive.”

The quote on the back, however, does capture quite well C. S. Lewis’s attitude toward laughter-

“[A] little comic relief in a discussion does no harm, however serious the topic may be.” –C. S. Lewis

This book was quite over my head in many places. I had to have a dictionary by my side while reading; I’m not used to that. The book is split into sections: 1) The Idea and the Legacy, 2) Joy, 3) Fun, 4) The Joke Proper, 5) Satire and Flippancy, and the 6) Conclusion: The Laughter of Love. In each of these sections Lindvall has fairly dissected the works of Lewis (and those that inspired him) and placed them into these categories. I cannot even begin to try to describe what is put into those chapters. It is something that I would suggest you read for yourself. My favorite chapter is #20 titled The Fun of Reading but I rather enjoyed the entire book (even somewhat the parts over my head).

Lindvall gives the readers a bit of Chesterton, Milton, Tolkien, Macdonald, More and many other authors, to help the reader understand the use of ‘laughter’ more in Lewis’s work and life, because all of these were influential to Lewis. Lewis commented on all of these and they can be seen in his own works. One thing that stood out to me above all else in this book is the understanding that Lewis knew that laughter “should function to reaffirm and establish what is good, right, and moral (page 311).” This is repeated in many places, albeit in different wording each time. (Such as on page 301, “One cannot keep human lungs from laughter. Yet one can seek to fill those lungs with clean, fresh comedy rather than polluted and poisonous air.”)

Like I said before, this book was way more than I expected but I’m glad I’ve read it. There were some chapters that I did not enjoy reading as much as the rest of the book; the following chapters: 22- Wit and Wordplay, 23- The Word Made Joke, 24- Comic Techniques and Topics, 28- Falling from Frauendienst, 29- Sex and Marriage, and 30-32, dealing with satire and flippancy (mostly because there were bits I just could not wrap my mind around).

I really think that someone with a literature background and possibly English could really appreciate this book. Reading it simply because it talks about C. S. Lewis may leave some readers scratching their heads, or worse, not interested to continue with the reading. It is deep; not a book for light reading.  I do not usually write in my books, not even a little tick mark, but this book now has notes in the margin and arrows throughout. It makes me want to read more of Lewis’s works as well as the other authors that he held in high esteem; especially Chesterton.

And it makes me want to see the joy and laughter in life. It also helped me to see why some people may find me amusing (when I don’t see myself as ‘amusing’ at all!) and I should think that anyone who reads this can find themselves in the cross-hairs of Lewis’s humor as well. And that isn’t a bad thing.

What I did not care for in this book is the scholarly tone (if that is the right description). Lindvall has a Ph.D and he writes like it! The inclusion of so much of Lewis’s own words helped me tremendously to understand some concepts that I would otherwise be completely lost if left to Lindvall’s words.

I end this review with words of Lewis:

“For he will read “in the same spirit that the author writ.” What is meant lightly he will take lightly; what is meant gravely, gravely. He will “laugh and shake in Rabelais’s” easy chair while he reads Chaucer’s faiblaux and respond with exquisite frivolity to The Rape of the Lock. He will enjoy a kickshaw as a kickshaw and a tragedy as a tragedy. He will never commit the error of trying to munch whipped cream as if it were venison (page 198)” –C. S. Lewis, Experiment in Criticism, pg 11

Or as Lindvall says it: “The right way to enjoy reading is not to approach it with preconceptions –particularly not solemn ones –but to see the author’s intention.” And I think Lindvall’s intentions were quite good in trying to help us see the humor, laughter, joy, and comedy of C. S. Lewis’s writings –and his life.

*I received this book free in exchange for an honest review- no compensation was given.*

Book Review: The Grace of God by Andy Stanley

The Grace of God by Andy Stanley
ISBN: 978-0849947162
Paperback, 240 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson

None of us deserves what God offers, a life free from sin and hope for a glorious future, but unbelievably it's ours for the taking. Why? Because of God's grace. The unmerited favor, the lavish love and kindness he pours out on us, and has, since Creation.

But if it's so available then why do we live a graceless life? Why are our churches filled with disillusioned Christians, weary of religion's demands, struggling with personal defeat because of issues or behaviors?

Join pastor Andy Stanley as he traces grace through the Old and New Testaments, observing God's grace at work in the lives of some of the best—and worst—characters. He also uses personal stories from his own life to reveal how grace is not a natural response but is the most essential one. Together these stories unravel the mystery of grace and tell of its transforming power to set us free (from Booksneeze).

This is a very interesting book. It often has me stumped why God would offer us grace…and sometimes I forget that He has offered it. Being human, perhaps I forget because it is difficult to extend grace myself to others. I try to remember that God is so much more awesome than any human could ever imagine or strive to be.

This book goes through different accounts from the Bible to help show that God’s grace is extended to us, those who look to Him and try to serve Him. But it isn’t because of what we have done (or will ever do). It is because He loves us.

Each chapter is a different view of grace:

• Chosen
• Surprised
• Redeemed
• Ruled
• Rescued
• Sustained
• Puzzled
• Accepted
• Reborn
• Filled
• Saved
• Commissioned

I enjoyed this book and will reread it, I think. It touches on so much that I’d not thought of before. God doesn’t have to give us anything. And yet He does give us grace. There were definitely interjections of the author's opinion (when there isn't a specific statement in the Bible, such as about how God feels [such as boredom]) but Stanley points to the Bible's passages in every chapter of this book and dealing with the grace of God.

I received this from BookSneeze in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Johann Sebastian Bach (Christian Encounter Series)

Johann Sebastian Bach (Christian Encounter Series) by Rick Marschall

ISBN-13: 978-1595551085

192 pages; ebook available (ASIN: 1595551085)

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Retail: $12.00

Johann Sebastian Bach is generally regarded as one of the greatest composers of all time. He enriched his generation, and every generation since, with his prolific ability to survey and bring together the principal musical styles, forms, and national traditions. Himself a Lutheran, he left a corpus of sacred music to cover the entire liturgical year, including Latin Masses written for the Catholic Court of Dresden, and spent much of his working life as a church music director in Germany. Though he was a highly respected organist during his lifetime, he wasn’t recognized as a great composer until the early nineteenth century. Today he is considered one of the most influential ever.

With that said...how did I like this book. I didn't really. Although I did learn more about Bach than I had previously known, it took me forever to get through the book. And it wasn't information that sticks with me. At the start of the book, I expected it to pick up pace because the author of this particular biography indeed has a reverence for Bach but for so much admiration, it doesn't. I found the book to be quite boring. 

It was a chore to read. And I hate to say that about books but there are some out there. Perhaps at another time I will pick this up again and reread it. Maybe I will get more out of it the second time around.

This book was a Kindle download from Booksneeze that I received free in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.

Book Review: Galileo (Christian Encounters Series)

Galileo by Mitch Stokes, Christian Encounters Series

Kindle Edition and Paperback

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

ISBN: 978-1-59555-031-6; ASIN: B004PGNC00

Retail: $12.00

From Booksneeze.com: 
From physics to religion, Galileo's life changed the world and how we perceive it.

Despite a debilitating life-long illness, Galileo changed physics from a purely philosophical subject into one involving mathematics and careful observation. But his innovations didn’t stop there. He also challenged beliefs about the very structure of the universe, arguing that the earth moves around the sun at dizzying speeds.

But suggesting such dramatic changes made philosophers uncomfortable. And because they were unable to refute Galileo on their own playing field, they sought help from theologians, sending Galileo headlong into a conflict with church officials. In this biography readers will be privy to the intrigues, personality clashes, and misunderstandings that led to Galileo’s famous trial and condemnation.

I chose this book to review from Thomas Nelson's Booksneeze blogger review program because I have recently been reading an older book (not necessarily about Galileo but he is mentioned), History of Astronomy by George Forbes. Honestly, I had thought Galileo was an astronomer! I've learned a great deal about him from reading this book. Not only was he interested in the movement of the sun, earth and planets (much later in his life) he was also a musician, an artist, and an engineer! He actually failed in medicine (because he didn't go to class and didn't do the work!) and didn't receive a degree from the University that he attended.

This is a very well done book, in my opinion. Though it is a work of non-fiction, it is not without its excitement. Starting from before Galileo was born (so we get an idea of where he is coming from), Stokes paints a vivid picture of those who shape Galileo into the man he becomes. He has many friends- and enemies- in high places. He seems to be a kind and generous man with a great ability to work with mathematics. *How interesting that medical students didn't study mathematics back then!* Galileo's studies take him down a path that at first I am sure was exhilarating and exciting but towards the end must have worried him a little.

Interwoven, and honestly at times seemingly misplaced, Stokes brings in other individuals and events during the lifetime of Galileo. These are not misplaced however, because each time we come to understand the connection. Stokes gives humor and empathy as well as greatly referenced resources to move this biography along. I found myself chuckling many times and laughing out loud at other times. Of course, I also found it so difficult to believe the treatment of his theories and ultimately himself.

This book was a Kindle download from Booksneeze and the formatting was a bit off in places (a space before an apostrophe; example: [duke 's]) but otherwise perfect. I love getting books on my Kindle- no waiting for them to come in the mail!

Book Review: The Final Summit

The Final Summit by Andy Andrews

Paperback or Kindle

224 pages

ISBN: 978-0785231202; ASIN: 078523120X

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Retail: $19.99

This is the sequel, or at least the book after Andrews' The Traveler's Gift. I haven't read the first book but if you pick up this one, you will not be in the dark. Andrews right away gets his readers caught up with the main character, David Ponder, going down memory lane. 

In a nutshell, this book is the quest to find the one principle that will save humanity. What makes it interesting is that Ponder comes in contact with, or has previously in The Traveler's Gift, individuals from the past that are fellow Travelers. We read about individuals such as Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Joan the Arc, King David, Eric Erickson, and Joshua Chamberlain. Those individuals play an important part in the Summit to which Ponder is called to lead. The archangel Gabriel is the overseer of the summit. In the end, the group supposedly comes up with the 'correct' answer to save humanity. Oops, sorry if that gave it away. But really, it doesn't because the answer was not what I was expecting and I wonder how many readers would have come to the same conclusion.

Anyway, the book itself: the writing isn't wonderful. There are so many instances where Andrews assumes (as good writers are supposed to, I have heard) that his reader will not understand a simple question and therefore his main character must drag out a simpler rephrase from the angel in order to understand. Ponder is supposed to be a smart man and yet at times he doesn't appear to be. Oh, well, I guess we are all like that.

The entire summit meeting is very well done. I did enjoy the reenactment of historical figures. At the end of the book Andrews has an authors note that says he made up most of what the characters said in the book but there were a few times that he drew from historical writings. It is a bit like historical fiction. Interesting bits of information about Eric Erickson, who I'd never heard about. If you are interested in that sort of thing, you might want to look him up ;) WWII figure.

I enjoyed the book for the most part, other than some of the writing- until the end. I was very disappointed. After a certain point when the summit is going, I knew I was going to be in for a surprise ending but... I did not like this one. Anyway, that is my opinion of course. Perhaps you'd like to read the book for yourself and share your review :)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the 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.”

Book Review: Curiosities of the Civil War

Curiosities of the Civil War, 150th Anniversary of the Civil War by Webb Garrison

Hardcover, 548 pages

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Retail: $19.99 (or on Amazon)

This book is full of information about the Civil War. There are lesser known facts and tidbits about the people and events during the Civil War. Webb Garrison chose the submissions carefully based on their "interest, novelty, and brevity." And this definitely is not an exhaustive compilation. Fortunately for those who are interested in the Civil War or would like to know more, there is bibliography that will help to dig deeper into these curiosities.

I liked the fact that these are short. I love history and have a special interest in the Civil War. Unfortunately there is so much involved with the history of the Civil War it is difficult for me to study it in as much depth as I would like. This book gives me my fix. 

An example of the format of this book: 

"Men of the Richmond Howitzers chose as their mascot a very big crow, jet black. When their pet died, the soldiers called on their chaplain to conduct for it "a regular military funeral." Before the solemn salute was given by guns of the honor guard, the bird was eulogized in both English and Latin." pg. 94

Some entries are an entire page, others are only a few sentences, such as the above. Some of the little bits I've already been made aware of but some I am not sure that I would have encountered them in any other historical work. Garrison pointed out in the Introduction that many of these were only found in one record, and often difficult to find at that. 

I like this book and it's definitely staying in my book collection! If you enjoy 'fact' books, history and/or the Civil War, I think you'll like this one.

**Disclaimer: I received this book from Booksneeze's blogger book review program. I received no compensation but was required to post an honest review of this book in exchange for the book. See more Disclosure/Policies.**

Book Review: Love- Cultivating Spirit-given Character by Calvin Miller

Fruit of the Spirit: Love

ISBN: 978-1418528416

ASIN: B004A90BTW

120 pages

Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishers

Available in Paperback or for the Kindle at Amazon. It is also available in other ereader formats. Check you favorite book seller :)

From BookSneeze: Best-selling author Calvin Miller has written an in-depth, biblically based study on the Fruits of the Spirits (Galatians 5:22). This unique study guide, part of the Fruit of the Spirit Study Guide Series, which is focused on cultivating Spirit-given character can be used as a personal study or in a small group setting. Companion Fruit of the Spirit Study Guide Series that are available include: Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodnesss, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control.

Features include:

• Lesson overview of each 6-week study
• Questions for reflection
• Character studies
• Bonus parable study
• Questions for small group discussion

Recently I chose to review a book from Booksneeze that I may not have ordinarily chosen. This book is one of a study of the fruits of the spirit and how to cultivate love. I requested this one for reading on my Kindle. Two reasons for this: 1, so I could receive the book sooner & 2, so that I could see how it looked on the Kindle. One thing right away about the Kindle formatted book- it still has a page at the back of the book for a Prayer Journal. Um, you can't 'write' on your Kindle. Just something I felt didn't belong.

The book itself is a 6 week study guide. Each week starts with a memory verse. The plan for the week is set out at the start briefly. Each day has a Bible reading, some commentary by Miller and then a few questions at the end of each day. At the end of the week is "Group Discussion". This has a little bit more commentary and then more questions to be asked. Each day of the week is themed: Day 1 Love _____; Day 2 The Purpose of God in My Life; Day 3 My Relationship with Christ; Day 4 My Service to Others; Day 5 My Personal Worship; Day 6 A Character Study on __________; Day 7 Group Discussion.

I didn't use this in a group but appreciated it by myself. It is easy to take just one day for each of these or to take two days. The content is good but a little shallow perhaps in areas. It could have gone more in-depth at times. Overall, this is a worthwhile book. I would be interested in reading the other books in the series.

**Disclaimer: I received an electronic version of this book from Booksneeze.com in exchange for an honest review. See more Disclosure/Policies.**