After The Hangover by R. Emmett Tyrrell Jr.

As a blogger for Thomas Nelson's blogger program, booksneeze.com, I had the opportunity to review the new release: After the Hangover by R. Emmett Tyrrell Jr. Written from a politically conservative perspective, this book chronicles the history and timeline of political conservatism: is high points and low points, in contrast to political liberalism.

This heavily detailed book discusses many of the main politicians and commentators of conservative political ideas. The ironies of the modern political movement are also expressed by Tyrrell. For example, modern liberalism- which is more related to socialism, bears little resemblance, if any to the original liberalism of American history. In contrast, modern conservatism is portrayed as the true descendent of the original ideals of liberalism in early American political history. His philosophies are clear, in which he promotes the ideas of objective truth and objective reality and rejects the philosophical world view of relativity by the liberal movement. This book portrays the dynamic relationship between the politicians and the commentators in American politics, as well as the transformation of political parties and the ideas of liberalism. Very little actual historical background is provided, as the author assumes that the reader most likely is well informed. When key players are introduced, minimal background is offered. Although, this is not a downside, this book may not be appreciated by readers with minimal background in political theory and the issues of liberalism vs. conservatism. I would reccomend this book for any strongly opinionated reader with a significant interest in politics and political ideas. The ideas expressed in this review are my own.

Will The World End in 2012 by Ramond C. Hundley

As a blogger for booksneeze.com, I recently had the opportunity to review a brief guide to the end of the world: Will the World End in 2012? published by Thomas Nelson publishers. In light of the dozens of the popular genre of end of the world scenario movies, most notably the recently released "2010" as well as others such as "Deep Impact" and "Knowing", this book certainly could not have had better timing.

Nevertheless, after reading this brief synopisis of disaster/ end of the world theories I was left wanting to know more information about the science (if applicable) behind the theories presented. Yet the inclusion of some of these far fetched theories such as the collision of planet x, aligment with the galactic plane, Nostradamus theries, and magnetic reversal as well the plethora of so called "religious" predictions, served to only reduce the credability- if any- of the scientific plausability of these theories. In the end, it almost appeared as if the author was grasping at straws to come up with at least some plausible remaining options for the end of the world.

The only accomplishment I see, of this book, would be to foster an aura of paranoia- which is the last thing that the conspiracy theorists and other readers of this book really need to fuel their minds. Even though Hundley disagrees with many of these theories, simply the acknowledgement and mention of some of these far fetched theories gives sufficient voice for their plausability in the minds of many supersticious readers. In sum, this book is not to be considered a scientifc or academic piece of work. Written for the casual reader, or the layman, this book is very simply written, and in my opinion serves as fuel for those who already lean towards paranoia and supersticion.

The strong point of this book is its objectivity and sensitivity, which would be a herculean effort for anyone else to maintain in light of some of the overly ridiculous and silly end of the world ideas/ "theories" presented. Furthermore, Hundley acknoweldges, albeit, via the usage of scare tactics and paranoia, the important role of faith and biblical message of salvation and Jesus' return. He is to be commended for this. Overall, it is with caution, that I reccomend this book as a very basic introduction to the vast array of conspiracy/ religious/ quasi- scientific end of the world theories.

I recieved this book for free as a part of the blogger program and am in no way required to give a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.

The Voice New Testament

As a blogger for the Booksneeze blogger program, I had the opportunity to review the a new modern translation of the New Testament, The Voice. Believing in the importance of the Good News of the bible, and having faith that the bible is the word of God to the human race, I feel it is essential that the bible is translated into easy to read language that can be understood by all. It is a grave diservice to prohibit or condemn easy to understand translations of the bible as some cults and religions do. There is no reason whatsoever to maintain the antiquated opinion that only the King James version (or other proprietary or antique versions for that matter) have a monopoly on the word of God. After all the KJV is in of itself a translation. Regrettably, the antique English style of the KJV and many other older translations, although poetic, make it prohibitive for many to read and understand the bible's message. So what's the point of having a bible if one can not understand or appreciate it.

The Voice is one of many new modern English translations. What makes the Voice stand out from other modern translations is that it is written in a transcript/ play like fashion. Introductory background material and information is also provided before each book as well as within the text. The two tone pages, and the formating make this translation easy to read. This supplimentary material is clearly "set aside" so as to not me confused with the actual bible text. The only downside to this casual translation is the fact that Jesus is called the Liberator or Liberating King, rather than Christ or Messiah. Other than that, which is not too much of an impediment, I highly reccomend this translation. It is important to keep in mind that the text is somewhat of a paraphrase- a meaning for meaning, rather than a word for word translation. This bible is perfect for reading and for drawing close to the truths of God, but not exactly the best for an indepth theological study.

As a blogger for Thomas Nelson's blogger program: booksneeze http://www.blogger.com/, I recieved a copy of this book for free. I am not required to write a postive review and the opinions and views expressed are my own.

The Chronological Guide to the Bible

I had the opportunity to read and review the full color bible guide, the Chronological Guide to the bible, published by Thomas Nelson publishers. This study guide is like a study guide/ encyclopedia/ hisoty book hybrid with its main focus on biblical history, society and culture. Diveded into chronological epochs, the chapters of this book may be read consecutively inorder or individually. Rather than having a chapter based on each indivdual bible book, the bible is broken down into consecutive historical periods, analogous to a history book, The book of the bible are summarized and discussed within the historical socio- economic period in which they occur. Additional content such as mini articles, photos, maps and timelines are inserted within the text. These articles provide to the modern reader, background material for the bible stories and heroes. Such material most likely would be familiar to the ancient reader, yet not to the modern reader. Its inclusion is very enlightening and provides the reader with a much better understanding of the ancient society and cultures of the bible. This bible guide is well suited for the secular student as well as the bible enthusiast.
I would recomend this book for anyone interested in the bible as well as in ancient history. One thing to keep in mind is that this book is not intended to be a spiritually motivational book. Nor is it a text on theology. The material of this book is replicated from the Thomas Nelson Chronological Study bible. Therefore if you own that particuloar study bible this guide may be redundant.

Disclosure of Material Connection- This book was recieved free from Thomas Nelson Publishers book review blogger program. I was not required to submit a positive review and the opinion contained in this review are my own.

The Day I Believed

Even though the actual story begins when I was very young, with the memory of my earliest of memories, for the sake of time I will fast forward to the day when I made an important decision that changed my life. That day started like any other day. There were no distinct weather conditions, special holidays, anniversaries or achievements to mark the date. In fact the particular calendar day was so insignificant that I no longer remember the date or even the exact year for that matter. It had never crossed my mind to record the date. Yet, the significance of that decision cannot be measured.
Some minimal background is required to understand the change that resulted from that important decision. Like countless others, I too had some difficult and awkward years when I was young. I did not grow up with the burden of any extraordinary impairments or circumstances. I did not have any unusual traumatic events. I was not tortured nor was I abused. Never did I go to bed hungry, not did I have to live in a shack. No PTSD memories linger to haunt me. But I did have some physical and emotional impediments which became more pronounced as I grew older. The events of my life in of themselves were neither memorable nor significant. I had three sisters who kept to themselves and two parents: my mother, nevertheless was not always around when I was young- but that was ok.
When I was really young, I was always a bit antisocial and distant from the other children. During my teenaged years, my physical and emotional deficits became more pronounced at a most inopportune time of life when appearance and social skills are paramount for normal positive social interaction. As I matured, my appearance shamed and I was distanced from the other girls my age. My physical appearance embarrassed me to such an extent that I lived in a constant state of abject discomfort and anxiety that someone would tease me. Graceless, indelicate and overgrown, I was isolated and frequently tormented by my peers. I was made fun of, humiliated and embarrassed. I was ignorant concerning the normal common social, health and hygiene knowledge that so many people take for granted. While the other girls engaged in sports, went to dances, took home economics and health class, I avoided these activities with the understanding that I would have no use for such skills which would most certainly never be put into the context of which they were intended. I lacked friends and was very lonely as a result of my physical appearance which was not considered to be even within the normal standards. I eventually reconciled myself to my fate, as well as my physical state. I did not have any hope for a better future. When I was very young, I was brought to therapists to “correct” my issues- to no avail. Attempts at brainwashing me to normalcy failed- retreats failed, counseling failed as well as writing those daily, laborious, repetitive positive affirmations in the spiral bound notebook that I was forced to do. Inside I had the same wants, goals and dreams as any other teenaged girl. Yet these were unattainable. While these problems may pale in comparison to the world’s social injustices and inequities, this was my life and my world! It was all that mattered to me at the time in my own selfish, self- centered world.
Outside I was quiet, yet within I was sad, angry, bitter and jealous. I was shy and lacked confidence and self esteem. I withdrew inward. Every night I would cry myself to sleep. . I could pass half the night awake in bed feeling sorry for myself. Sometimes I played out long scenarios of suicide despite the fact that I was too much of a coward for that. Imaginary scenarios of revenge and justice helped me fall asleep. In my dreams I lived out detailed fantasies of revenge and redemption- that is, of course- when I finally was able to sleep. I had a fear of death- not of my own but of my family. This extreme fear of others dying, made it very difficult for me to sleep. I specifically feared that my Dad would die. He had been hospitalized and had seizures, but no known diagnosis. I lived with a sick sense of dread and impending doom every night for years! In fact I would leave my bedroom sometime during the night and go out to the couch. I could barely even walk past the hall to go to the bathroom without having an intense fear of impending death. I hate nightmares often about death. I often wished my mother or older sisters were around so I didn’t have to face this fear alone. My only prayers were prayers that I would die peacefully in my sleep and never wake up. I didn’t fear my own death, however. I welcomed it. I doubted that even God existed because if He really did, I was sure that I had been abandoned by God. I wondered why I of all people deserved to have been singled out by my peers to endure such misery and frustration.
During the daytime I was withdrawn and anxious. I did not watch tv. I did not listen to music. I engaged in solitary activities: reading, writing, drawing and playing with dolls. I would clean and organize my room and my books and my dolls and my various collections. I had many collections: rocks, stickers, stamps, petrified/ shellacked hermit crabs….. All these things were my expressive outlet- especially writing. I could spend hours, and even an entire night simply writing- filling entire notebooks within a few short hours! This was the age before computers- so I would write and write and write until my fingers were red and callused and sore. I had to finish, I could not leave a piece of work unfinished! Oh, how I lived my life in my room. I lived out my dreams- reenacting a perfect world, and fulfilling my wishes for revenge and my dreams. All those little tiny people represented real people. I created a miniature replica of a town, filled with homes and schools, stores and people. After school from the time I was eight throughout high school, I lived out my life of normalcy and dreams through the fictitious town I created as well as its inhabitants. I found peace by playing within that town. Anything that happened in real life, I would reenact in my small miniature town. No detail was too insignificant to include in my little town replica. In fact, it had its own transportation system, school system, a library and even a newspaper! The newspaper was available both in miniature format as well as larger traditional format- to this day I still have some copies.
I enjoyed books and lived my life’s adventures from reading literature and novels. I also enjoyed philosophy, psychology and science as well. Much of my knowledge and experience came from books. I lived life experiences through reading, and made them come to life through my writings, my fantasies and the re-enactment through my dolls. To me this was life!
By today’s standards, my dreams as a youth were pretty mundane: my peers, normal and average by the world’s standards, represented the manifestation, and complete embodiment of my dreams. As impossible as it seemed my hopes consisted of getting a boyfriend, getting married and having children. That’s it! That was the scope of my ambition- simply to be normal like everyone else. Sure I did well in school- getting on the honor roll and honor society without ever having to study. I completed all my school work , studying and research papers in the time it took me to take the bus ride home and during the time it took finish my business on the toilet bowl. I had three cats, and these three animals were my only physical companions. I constantly feared they would get loose and run away.
The irony is that despite the anger and jealous feelings I harbored within, I felt morally superior to everyone else. I deluded myself into thinking I was righteously perfect. I believed I was so good and guilty of no wrong whatsoever. I believed I was morally superior to all those other so-called ingrates of society masquerading as “good” people. In fact everyone else had wronged me in my own mind. I believed if there actually was such a place as heaven, then I would go there with no problem. I was so puffed up with pride about my own goodness when I compared myself with all those other degenerates that dated, went to dances, listened to music or dressed in nice clothing. At least they were degenerates in my own mind. Yet at times when my father who was a believer in the bible would discuss the bible, I would silently, and without a word, stomp out in offense and leave the room. I simply did not want to hear about God or the bible. I silently and without complaint kept all my worries and miseries to myself.
One day this internal misery came to an end. I vaguely recall a young woman in her twenties associated with a high school self esteem related assembly program who somehow crossed my path and befriended me. She was a Christian, yet at the time having no interest in religion, Christianity or the bible, I do not recall any specific details concerning her associations. She invited me to lunch at Burger King during my lunch hour. We talked, or rather she talked, and I “listened”. In actuality I was more concerned about finishing my french fries than listening to whatever she appeared to be rambling about. She could not have missed my apathy and lack of response. She dutifully and in a perfunctory manner went over, laboriously page by page, a green booklet. She did not miss a detail explaining every diagram and caption- of which I barely glanced indifferently. But one statement of all the others stood out: she called me a sinner. Well she also explained how everyone was a sinner and that no one was righteous in God’s eyes. A sinner! I didn’t say anything, but immediately I took offense. How dare she assume that I was a sinner! She did not know who she was speaking to obviously. Obviously she didn’t know about my sufferings and misery. How inaccurate and ridiculous to accuse me of all people a sinner. As far as I was concerned I never sinned. I don’t remember anything else except that I felt disappointed somehow and she gave me that booklet and that somehow I made it back in time for my History class on time.
Looking back I remember the parables of Jesus about how hard it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven, and that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle….. Well, a more formidable obstacle comes to mind- pride and self righteousness! How much easier it is for a camel to go through an eye of a needle than a self righteous, stubborn, self pitying young girl (or anyone for that matter) to humble herself spiritually and enter the kingdom of heaven. Yet, it did happen!
Later that day I tried to put the entire conversation out of my mind. I still couldn’t get over the idea that she had referred to me as a sinner like everyone else. But the thoughts of that conversation and that verse consumed me! “For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory if God”. (Romans 3:23) I was a sinner according to that statement! I pondered in my mind the implications of that statement. What if it was true? What if I was actually separated from God? The consequences were to terrible for me to even imagine. Just the thought that it may be true and I was outside of God was too much to bear.For days and maybe even weeks, I can not recall, I thought about it- deliberating and debating in my mind the consequences of that new knowledge. Oh how I wished that my comfortable vague ideas about God and heaven had not been challenged. I had grown accustomed to living comfortably within my own world with my self righteous attitude and self pity. What if it were really true? What if it was possible to have a relationship with God? What if I was separated from God? I had to humble myself spiritually and admit that I was a sinner. I had no choice and no excuse. Despite the hardships of my life, I still was guilty of sin in my actions and most of all my thoughts. My feelings of revenge and anger and envy were sinful! My fictitious fantasies were impure and sinful in God’s eyes. I was not morally perfect as I had deluded myself into believing. I had to make a choice and I had to make a change. It was a real decision. I decided to accept God’s friendship and gift of grace, admitting that I was guilty of sin. In that moment I had made the decision. There was no turning back. The message of the gospel and of salvation was truly good news. “God demonstrated his love towards us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” Romans 5:8 For the first time in my life I felt truly happy and hopeful, as if an enormous burden had been cast off. The evil feelings I harbored within were a burden all my life, and it was liberating to release those negative feelings and to have God as

Rediscovering God in America By Newt Gingrich

As a member of the Thomas Nelson Review Blogger program http://brb.thomasnelson.com/ , I had the pleasure of reviewing Newt Gingrich’s new book, Rediscovering God in America. This book presented a brief synopsis of well known national monuments and their biblical origins. The role of faith in the making of historical patriotic icons is well documented and made obvious through the text of the book. This simple to read, yet informative book can be read in one sitting. Yet the impact of its content is far reaching- unveiling the undeniable influence of faith and scripture in America and its leaders. Actual quotes from the very monuments themselves, depicting scripture, are contained within the text as well as photographed! In true lawyer-like fashion, Newt would have proven his case of the significance and influence of the bible, without a shadow of a doubt to even the most hardened of atheists. Nevertheless, this objectively written book simply states facts- opinions and judgments are left out. The secular, as well as religious audience would appreciate this book and its objectivity.
Nevertheless after reading this book, I was left with a sense of wanting to know more about each of the monuments portrayed. The simplistic writing makes this work accessible to the layman. Personally I would have loved to see more photos and more in-depth historical background provided for each of the monuments depicted. With its full color photography and objective presentation of the religious elements of well known monuments, this book would be a welcome addition for any patriotic American or history enthusiast.

Revolve 2010 The Complete New Testament

As a member of the Thomas Nelson Review Blogger program http://brb.thomasnelson.com/ , I had the opportunity to review the unique bible in magazine-like format, Revolve 2010 The Complete New Testament. Turning the bible/ new testament text into a magazine format is a creative outreach idea, that I believe will be an effective means by which to draw more interest to the bible. Specifically, this particular bible-zine is geared towards the stereotypical teen aged girl.
The full new testament text of the easy to read NCV version is presented along side articles and full color eye-catching graphics and photographs. The presentation is visually superior. Nevertheless the content of some of the “articles”, such as the articles on health & beauty I found, to be some what less than inspiring, and bland. Furthermore, the so called advice columns/ articles on dating, seemed too much of a cliché, and they added no value whatsoever. Some of the supplemental material, such as the articles, interviews and quizzes, were just too stereotypical. Obviously the inclusion of these elements is an attempt to include popular content in the style of traditional teenaged fashion/ beauty magazines.
The side bars/ mini articles on the characters of the bible, and the historical articles about biblical culture and places were very informative and highlighted the relevance of the bible to modern day culture and society in a way the a teenager could appreciate. Biblical verses in “text” shorthand were pretty clever as well!
Overall I believe this new testament format is a great idea. Regrettably, I feel the inclusion of some of the fashion/ beauty/ dating material will alienate many of the teenaged girls that do not quite fit into the typical stereotypical image of a teenaged girl. In the future, I would like to see Thomas Nelson publishers produce more themed magazine new testaments for young people to represent other popular subcultures such as the gothic sub-culture, environmentalism/ science, as well as music/art.

Jesus Lives By Sarah Young

Jesus Lives By Sarah Young

As a member of the Thomas Nelson Review Blogger program http://brb.thomasnelson.com/ , I had the opportunity to review Sara Young’s devotional book, Jesus Lives. I was pleasantly surprised at the extent of this book’s reliance on scripture. Each topic/ page is supplemented by two or three complimentary biblical verses. The topics such as : brokenness, trials, trust, worry, heaven and idolatry are relevant in today’s society. What makes this book even more practical is the fact that each verse is explicitly written out. Additionally, the theme of each verse is interwoven within the text of the devotional passage.
This book is truly a great resource. It brings to life biblical passages. Theologically and doctrinally this devotional is consistent with the message of the bible. This book will stand the test of scrutiny of any theologian. Yet, it is simple enough to be appreciated and understood by new Christians, and the secular reader as well. Biblical truth is not watered down- this is not just another “feel- good” type of motivational book. While, motivating and encouraging to the reader, this book does not water down the message of salvation, nor does this book dismiss the reality or the purpose of pain and suffering which is indeed, a fact of life in this imperfect and sinful world.

Finding Purpose Beyond Our Pain by Paul Meier, MD and David L. Henderson, MD

As a member of the Thomas Nelson Review Blogger program http://brb.thomasnelson.com/ , I had the opportunity to review this spiritually motivating book, Finding Purpose Beyond Our Pain.
Consider the two verses, Psalm 34:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me”, and James 2:2&3, “Count it all joy, my breathren when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” Imagine life if you actually had to face various trials and evils such as injustice, death, loneliness, failure, rejection, depression and terminal illness. For many of us, this is an unbearable thought as we are far removed from facing such hardships and trials. Maybe we have been lucky enough not to have to face extreme hardships. But for the rest of us, these torments and pains are all too real. The trials of life are often crippling, beyond what we can bear using our own means and resources.
Finally embodied in a book, there is spiritual aid and support that does not dismiss the pains of life, nor does it deny the existence of pain nor does it make excuses. This book acknowledges the extreme pains and trials we may face and it offers spiritually satisfying ways of facing life’s difficult issues. Hope and happiness does not need to end in the face of calamity, injustice and pain. God can use our pain for a greater good or purpose. God is not simply an abstract, unreachable power, but is depicted as a source of real and concrete strength that is more powerful than even the worst of our pain.
The anecdotes in this book are not simply superficial tales of misfortune. The stories and hardships such as terminal illness, death, forclosure, and unemployment faced by some of the case studies are timely as well as very real. In the face of such hardship and trials, to see examples of the good which results, are very motivating. It offers true hope that can shine as a light in the darkness of despair. Written with empathy and sensitivity, I recommend this book as an effective resource for those who are enduring the most difficult trials of life.

Living With Confidence in a Chaotic World by Dr. David Jeremiah

As a member of the Thomas Nelson Review Blogger program http://brb.thomasnelson.com/ , I had the opportunity to review the book: Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World. Dr. Jeremiah offers practical and spiritually enriching strategies for coping in this difficult world that we live in. When faced with today’s traumatic events such as sickness, death, divorce, natural and political disasters, crime, loss of financial security, foreclosure, and unemployment- a word of comfort as well as practical biblical coping mechanisms are offered to help ease the pain.
This timely topics of this book are simplistic and well organized. The reading level is very simple, and there are MANY anecdotes throughout the text. Basic biblical principals are transformed into self help strategies that can turn feelings of anxiety and depression into positive times of productivity. Common sense strategies are organized into chapters: 1. Stay Calm, 2. Stay Compassionate, 3. Stay Constructive, 4. Stay Challenged 5. Stay Connected, 6. Stay Centered, 7. Stay Confident, 8. Stay Consistent, 9. Stay Committed, 10. Stay Convinced. Basically, the theme of this book is that despite the circumstances around you, as an individual, you do have control over how you respond.
Although biblical examples and teachings are applied throughout the book, this book is general enough, nonetheless to be used as a self help guide for the secular audience as well. This book shows that not only can sound biblical principals be applied in the apostolic age, but in these difficult modern days as well. I would recommend this book for anyone who is seeking some common sense guidance and comfort for their lives.

The Well- Behaved Child by John Rosemond

As a member of the Thomas Nelson Review Blogger program http://brb.thomasnelson.com/ , I had the privilege of reviewing John Rosemond’s parenting book, The Well- Behaved Child.
Of all the parenting/ child rearing books on the market today, Rosemond’s strategies, based on traditional common sense, have been the most enlightening. This book is based on the basic premise that children, by nature are prone to misbehave, and therefore require a parent to understand, address and discipline such issues so as to raise happy, well adjusted children. In fact, he states on page two, “the incontrovertible badness of children is why it takes most of two decades to fully socialize them. This badness is the reason for this book.” Firstly, before anything else, a parent must understand the basic antisocial, selfish tendency of a child, and address it- rather than dismiss or rationalize it.
This book dispels common child rearing myths which prevail in today’s society. For example, he advocates leadership rather than ineffective reasoning. The parent is the authority figure and does not have to justify his/ her actions to a child. The parent need not and should not engage in debates or bargaining with a child also referred to as the “short and sweet” principal. Rosemond is a proponent of the effectiveness of “reverse psychology”. Contrary to popular opinion, what works to train a dog will not work for a child. Behavior modification is simply ineffective and temporary. Furthermore offering rewards in exchange for positive behavior is just a short term solution and in the long run, it just promotes the cycle of manipulation and control the child has over the parent and authority in general. “Reward- based discipline …. teach[es] children how to manipulate parents [teaching] that misbehavior and underachievement are the tickets to getting special privileges”. P 17 Additionally, time-outs are simply ineffective, akin to “trying to fend off a charging elephant with a flyswatter”. P 13 These are just a few examples of some of the parenting techniques and philosophies.
Using relevant case studies, and summing up basic strategies and principals, positive and effective parenting strategies are offered in this book in an easy to understand format. I would recommend this book to any parent who wishes to raise a responsible and well adjusted child.

Kabul24 By Henry O. Arnold and Ben Pearson

Kabul24, is the true life story of the hostages whose only “crimes” were their selfless humanitarian efforts accomplished via the Shelter Now International (SNI) humanitarian efforts. These courageous hostages were guilty of no crimes and deprived of basic human dignities and rights, simply because they were a perceived threat of the evil and corrupt Taliban Regime. Betrayed by the very people they sought to help, in a world where the threat of arrest, coercion, blackmail, torture and death loom, these men and women of the SNI were deprived of their rights, and thrown into jail cells.

Fear of torture and death as well as the on-going inhumane conditions of filth, squalor and deprivation, was their “reward” for dedicating their lives to humanitarian efforts to improve the lives and conditions of men, women and children. Despite the months of imprisonment, and the phony charges and mock trials, their faith in God did not waiver.

This is the day to day, behind the scenes story that was not depicted on TV or in the newspaper. From the dramatic and ominous unfolding of events prior to their arrest, to the imprisonment and ongoing fears of facing an uncertain future, to the abrupt and joyful release, the reader can follow the unfolding of events from start to finish! Arnold and Pearson vividly capture the rush of emotions experienced by these captives as well as the heroism. As a member of the Thomas Nelson Blogger Program,
http://brb.thomasnelson.com/ I recommend this book to anyone who wish to get more insight and inspiration and to see the real live people behind the story of the Taliban Kidnapping of the SNI hostages.

Everyday Greatness By Stephen R. Covey

As a member of Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger program http://brb.thomasnelson.com/ I had the opportunity to review Stephen R. Covey’s compendium of moral inspirational stories, Everyday Greatness.

Covey’s book is like a textbook in morals. Moral values are categorized and explicitly described via real life stories which serve as examples or case studies. Morals are grouped together in sections. Each section begins with a brief introduction- the style is reminiscent to the learning goals which can be found in an elementary text book prior to each new unit. For each moral topic, there is a short summary in an easy to digest format called the “Wrap Up” and “Reflections” at the end of each chapter. Also included are relevant quotations from a colorful assortment of literary, political and religious figures.

While not explicitly biblical, the humanistic moral values within the pages are not offensive and are compatible with Christianity nonetheless. The book draws upon the worldly wisdom of philosophers and other assorted well known figures ranging from Nietzsche, Tom Hanks, Ghandi and Mother Theresa to John McCain and George Bush.
Perhaps this book is most useful as a starting point to introduce non religious readers and non Christians to basic moral values.

This book is not to be used explicitly as a Christian resource but rather as a generic, secular resource for anyone wishing to strive for a moral life. This book is a good instruction manual on general moral values and good citizenship. It is clear that this ambitious piece of work represents a lot of research and hard work on the part of Stephen R. Covey. The books weakness in promoting the Christian faith and biblical values serves as a great strength as well as it is an effective resource to draw the interest of a secular audience. Nevertheless as a Christian, I would have liked to see more biblical quotes and biblical wisdom along side the secular quotes and secular wisdom.

New Testament Biblical Commentary

My commentary/ summary of the New Testament letters is now complete. Please visit the archives to see my earlier posts.

Rick & Bubba’s Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage By Rick Burgess & Bill “Bubba” Bussey

More reliable than your best friend’s advice, more objective than your Mom, and more convenient than a marriage counselor, if you wish to work toward strengthening your marriage, then take a look at this book. Contrary to popular opinion, you do not need to have a fairy tale marriage to be content. Rick & Bubba’s Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage By Rick Burgess & Bill “Bubba” Bussey relies on the wisdom of God & common sense, as well as their own humorous life stories to offer objective and constructive advise for couples. This encouraging book offers realistic and positive suggestions for working through even the most difficult of marital relationships.
The biggest strength of this book is its objectivity rather than its reliance on feelings and emotions. Sometimes feelings can make a person act impulsively and irrationally. While acknowledging that one’s spouse can sometimes be less than lovable, this book empowers the reader to make practical decisions that strengthen a marriage. A marriage can be strengthened despite the fact that a spouse does not always change and may not always be cooperative.
This easy to read book includes real life and funny anecdotes to illustrate the trials of marriage. The careful use of satire and humor bring new light to painful and difficult situations that married couples face. Financial issues, busybody in-laws and friends, are addressed as well as many other issues. Side bars of information such as “The Ten Commandments of Marriage”, “His Money, Her Money”, “Sample Apologies for Men” and the “Top Ten worst Ways to say, I’m sorry” employ the clever use of satire to add an element of humor when addressing problems.
As a member of the Thomas Nelson Review Blogger program http://brb.thomasnelson.com/ , I had the pleasure of reviewing this book. I would recommend it for any couple.