The Gift of Heaven By Charles Stanley Published by Thomas Nelson

The Gift of Heaven

By Charles Stanley
Published by Thomas Nelson

The Gift of Heaven By Charles Stanley  is a new small sized gift book that covers the topic of heaven.  Unlike a long book on the theology of heaven, this book features short passages of text along side a full color nature scene.  Selected quotes from the author as well as scripture are featured throughout the book with a featured scene in the back ground- much like a motivational poster.  This book is perfect for those who want answers to questions as well as those who are grieving and seek comfort.  This book is perfect for seekers as well as those who are bereaved or facing terminal illness.   The nature scenes are generic but beautiful: scenes of mountains, flowers and trees.  Each scene is different.  The photographs do not detract from the text.  This book is covered in topical sections.  It can be read from start to finish or be started at any mid point.  This is a perfect gift for those who wish to transition from the worldliness to a spiritual eternity minded mind set. This book is most appropriate as an introduction to biblical teachings on heaven.  This book would make a good outreach opportunity for those on hospice or in a nursing home.  Secular as well as religious readers will find comfort from this book.  Most importantly, near the end, the gospel message is condensed and simplified to point to the reader on what must happen to have eternal life in heaven.  Far too many feel good type of books leave out the gospel message of salvation.  The thing about books like this is that many readers dont fully read it from cover to cover.  It often sits un read on a coffee table or night stand.  It may even become a treasured keepsake.  I encourage anyone who buys this book or receive it as a gift to actually read each page.  It's not just an aesthetically pleasing book.  It has the potential to answer questions and provide words of true comfort.  As a blogger for Booklook I received a copy of this book for the purpose of writing this review.

Start Where You Are Week-at-a-Glance Diary by Meera Lee Patel

Start Where You Are Week-at-a-Glance Diary by Meera Lee Patel is a versatile journal that is as beautiful as it is functional.  Unlike other calendars or schedules, this one can be adapted to start at any day- it is not limited to starting January 1st or in July for the academic year.  The dates are all blank- except for the day of the week.  You can literally pick and choose any start date without having to wait or waste valuable pages.   This simple date book looks like a thin paperback book, it  is bound together like a paperback book- yet the pages are thick and the cover is durable. This date book is portable yet sturdy. Throughout this book- every month/ 30 day period, are inspirational quotes with colorful graphics. This weekly diary is the perfect gift for yourself or for anyone.  The biggest dilemma one may face is to when to actually start this book.  To adapt it as a beautiful keepsake, it can be adapted to begin on a special date such as a birthday, anniversary or the start of a new job.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Potter/Tenspeed/Harmony publishers for the purpose of writing this review.

Super Hero Kids Giveaway with David C Cook!

Super Hero Kids Giveaway with David C Cook! http://www.theactionbible.com/superherokids/ DOES YOUR CHILD LOVE COMIC BOOKS? HOW ABOUT SUPER HEROES?

Now is your chance to have DC and Marvel illustrator Sergio Cariello make your child's dream come true!



Parents!


David C Cook is proud to introduce the newest book in the Action Bible collection: The Action Storybook Bible (coming October 2017). Pre-order The Action Storybook Bible from Amazon

Pre-order The Action Storybook Bible from Amazon

Pre-order The Action Storybook Bible from Barnes And Noble

Plus click the Link below to enter to have a chance to win an illustration of your child as a super hero by Action Bible artist Sergio Cariello (who has also illustrated comics for DC and Marvel!).

http://www.theactionbible.com/superherokids/




{THE ACTION STORYBOOK BIBLE}

Families see the Bible in motion and put their faith into action!
The Action Storybook Bible invites families with young children to explore God's redemptive story together. An entry point into the world of The Action Bible, it tells of the amazing creation story, powerful kings who reigned over ancient Israel, God's miraculous gift of eternal life through Jesus, and more! God's promise for the world is displayed throughout every page. Discover your family's place in God's incredible story and together put your faith into action!
Interactive features include:



Fifteen key episodes from God's Word-each one loaded with several stories along with over 350 brand-new illustrations throughout.

Short and easy readings-for children ages eight and under with rich, colorful images.

Life, Faith, Action! features-conclude every episode and invite families to talk about how God moves in the stories, how to see God in life today, how to put faith into action, and how to easily talk to God with a suggested prayer.

Hall of Fame visual index-the place to look up favorite Bible characters by discovering their icon connections and finding them in the stories.

Wow! The Good News in Four Words by Dandi Daley Mackall

Wow!

The Good News in Four Words by Dandi Daley Mackall is an innovative bible story for young children.  This book is a unique outreach for young kids, telling the story of salvation using four words, literally.  This is a simple yet entertaining way to deliver the life saving message of the bible to kids.  The colorful bold pictures will appeal to children as well.   There is no picture book like this one. The author, Dandi Daley Mackall delivers an original way to tell the story of the bible. I think the words of this book as well as its message will stick in the minds of young children long after they have read it.  I believe parents will also be pleasantly surprised as well.  It is important to continue to come up with new ideas to reach the newer generations of children.  The timeless lifesaving message of the bible is repackaged in an entirely new and relevant way.  As a blogger for Tyndale I received a copy of this book for the purpose of writing this review.

My Rad Life: A Journal by Kate Schatz

My Rad Life: A Journal  by Kate Schatz  is not what you might expect based on the appearance of the cover.  What looks like it might be  superficial journal for teens, delivers much, much more.  This book is actually an in depth empowering, thought provoking  book for women  and girls of all ages.  This is not simply a "Barbie-esque" type of journal for girls and adults who have outgrown their Barbie and Disney princess coloring books.  You won't find make-up tips, silly boyfriend advise, trendy recipes  or superficial fashion hints.  Do not be deceived by the title, the use of the word "rad"   is used in a nostalgic or vintage sense.  This is a refreshing new journal option for young as well as adult readers that addresses real social issues. This book doesn't promote the sterotypical woman who simply cares about recipes, make up, clothing and other superficial wasteful self indulgent lifestyle choices.   This modern styled journal features inspirational and empowering quotes from women of all generations, from as young as age 16 to classic theorists from previous generations.  Filled with unexpected and powerful quotes of social activists and independent thinkers, this free style journal is a versatile place to include your thoughts, notes and even doodles.  This journal can be a structures catalysts if you choose to follow the writing prompts for your own thought provoking insight.  Or you may choose to simply write freestyle, journaling on your own subject matter.  Either way, this journal can be adapted to any purpose, using the quotes and cartoon illustrations as thought provoking motivators.  Personally I feel this is a great gift for any teenager or college student. This author should be applauded for her  bold new book, not succumbing to what the stereotypes society promotes for women. As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Ten Speed Press. 

NKJV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible

NKJV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible Bringing to Life the Ancient World of Scripture

By Craig S. Keener , John H. Walton
Published by Zondervan

The NKJV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible By Craig S. Keener ; John H. Walton, General Editors  Published by Zondervan is more than just a bible- it brings the culture and historical context of the bible to life.    This bible is now available in the NIV and NKJV as well.

This is a beautiful study bible- full of articles, full color photos and diagrams.  If you are looking for a study bible- you will not be disappointed! Every page features either an article, photograph or informative graphic.  This bible is far more advanced than a traditional study bible.  Full color graphic study bibles started with the prototypical Archeological study bible printed years ago.  There is some resemblance to the out of print Archeological study bible, and the newly published First Century bible also by Zondervan. If you want to own one single bible that is good for study as well as beautifully designed and illustrated, the full color Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible is the really the only bible you will need.  This bible has every study feature you could ever ask for in a bible- including historical, theological and life application information.  This bible is full of full color photos, maps, charts, illustrations as well as the tiny footnotes- traditional study notes on the bottom of the page.  It is like a history book and bible rolled into one volume.  This bible is great for new bible readers as well experienced readers.

The font is very easy to read and not too tiny.  As far as everyday study, the font is big enough so as not to require the reader to squint.  Unlike most study bibles where the bible text is extremely tiny, I found the bible text to be readable.  It is nice to see that the publishers recognized the need for a full color bible- with an abundance of study resources and photos from the historical point of view. I do not feel any bible reader would ever need to buy another study bible.  Perhaps teachers, sociologists,  history enthusiasts and tourist travelers will be drawn to this bible as well. There is a wealth of study notes on each page as well.  

Some of the material may be redundant for those who already own the First Century Study bible.  For example, many of the diagrams, maps and illustrations photographs and charts are in both the Cultural Backgrounds Bible and First Century bible.  There is some unique content and photographs, but maybe not enough to justify owning both of these similar study bibles.

Although there appear to be quite a bit of study notes included, they are more like foot notes.  The study notes add quite a bit of historical and cultural detail but really do not clarify  spiritual concepts.  If you are looking for a bible with extensive study notes for spiritual clarification- this study bible is not the best choice.

For anyone looking for a good bible that will provide a lifetime of value and study, the NIV Cultural Backgrounds bible is among the top choices in my opinion. I think any bible reader will be impressed.  It is also easy to read with a somewhat larger and clearer font size.  Jesus' words are in red letter font as well.  As a blogger for booklook I received a copy of this bible published by Zondervan.

Have a tough time deciding what bible to choose? Please visit this guide online.
http://pjtheemt.blogspot.com/2011/06/bible-versions-communicating-gods-word.html

The Red Letter Words of Jesus By Jack Countryman Published by Thomas Nelson

The Red Letter Words of Jesus By Jack Countryman  Published by Thomas Nelson is a beautifully bound pocket sized book highlighting selected scripture verses from Jesus' words in the new testament.  Unlike other devotional books- this small volume focuses on the words of Jesus.  Each selected verse is one of Jesus' words from the new testament.  The title "Red Letter Words of Jesus" is based on the concept that many bibles specifically print the words of Jesus in red colored font to distinguish from the reminder of scripture.  Each two page devotional spread features a beautifully illustrated verse- is red type font, along side a short devotional passage written by the author, Jack Countryman.  If you are looking for a new devotional that will lead you back to the spiritual basics, this book is a good choice.  This book would also make a beautiful gift as well.  As a blogger for booklook I received a copy of this book for the purpose of writing this review.  This book is published by Countryman, a division of Thomas Nelson publishers. 

The New American Heart Association Cookbook

The New American Heart Association Cookbook, 9th Edition: Revised and Updated with More Than 100 All-New Recipes

by American Heart AssociationAmerican Heart Association  Is the newest edition of this classic cookbook.  This basic cook book belongs in the kitchen of every chef  and family.  Not only does it include a variety of hear healthy recipes- low fat and low cholesterol meal choices- it includes everything from basic to more advanced recipes for every level of chef.  If you are looking for a basic cookbook containing a variety of basic recipes to appeal to a family, friends and guests of all ages, this is the only cookbook you will need. This would make a great house warming gift for anyone who is moving into their first home as well.  The one thing I would change is to at least include a color insert of photographs of selected recipes.  There were no photographs included in this cookbook other than the photos on the cover.  At minimum, I'd expect a cookbook to have some photos at least.  Considering the suggested retail price, this is one thing that bothered me.  I'd imagine there are many chefs who probably won't mind that there are no photos included, but some basic and beginner home cooks might like at least some visual content of what the finished meal should look like.   As a blogger I received a copy of this cookbook for the purpose of writing this review.

Oh Susannah: Things that Go Bump by Carole P. Roman

What may seem like trivial problems to an adult, may be an insurmountable mountains for a child.  In her newest chapter book series, "Oh Susannah", Roman empowers grade school children to tackle the everyday problems they face.  In her second  "Oh, Susanna" book, "Oh Susannah: Things that Go Bump" Carole P.

Roman follows where the first story leaves off. In this story, Susannah tackles her fears and social anxiety over a sleepover invitation.  What an adult may dismiss as a silly unfounded fear, Roman captures with authenticity.  The author gets inside the mind of a child so much so that a child can fin
e reassurance through the story in order to tackle their own fears. I'd imagine many parents can relate to this story as

well.   Once again Roman shows her versatility as a children's writer,  With skill, she writes an entertaining as well as a comforting tale about what happens when you keep secrets and burdens hidden inside.   This is the perfect story for elementary school readers to read as well as the perfect bed time story for parents to read to children.  The illustrations by Mateya Arkova are the perfect graphic touch to start each chapter. The haunted sleepover theme and the ominous looking old home on the cover make this a perfect story to read in October.  The cliff hanger ending will keep the readers engaged, waiting for the next story in the series. As a blogger I received a complimentary copy of this book.  It is available for purchase on Amazon as well as Barnes and Noble.

Children of all ages enjoy the new series.

If You Were Me and Lived in...Israel: A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around the World by Carole P. Roman,

If You Were Me and Lived in...Israel: A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around the World

by Carole P. Roman, Kelsea Wierenga (Illustrator)

There is another new volume in Carole P. Roman's Cultures around the World series.  If You Were Me and Lived in...Israel: A Child's Introduction to Culture Around the World by Carole P. Roman,  illustrated by Kelsea Wierenga is the newest book.

There are plenty of commentaries and tourist books on Israel.  It has much symbolic, religious and political significance.  Countless affluent religious tourists make the expensive trip to visit this location. No doubt if you have access to social media, you have seen vacation photos in your newsfeed from your upscale, upper class friends.  Tourist photos do not give the whole picture of daily life in this culture.  Written from an objective, secular viewpoint, the reader gets a unique, unbiased  perspective of everyday life.   The author goes beyond the stereotype of Israel to review the basic day to day life that a child who lives in Israel experiences: school, sports, pastimes and more.  This edition  is a beautiful and informative work of art, celebrating Israel with its combination of  cheerful cartoon tour guides superimposed with beautiful, full color, picturesque photography.  Without a doubt,  each book in the "A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around The World" series offers the reader new surprises each time.

I can imagine this book series would make a good transition as an educational television series. Hopefully at some point in the future, consideration can be made to publish these stories together in one larger volume. 

When reading about Cuba, the photo shoot with the happy family   jumps out at the reader, against the backdrop against a traditional city neighborhood with its stonework benches  and age withered apartment complezes.   Other authentic  details and textures, bright blue skies, stonework, and architectural details,  add appeal and beauty to the simplistic cartoon scenes.

 The cartoon tour guides will certainly capture the attention of all young readers as well as parents and educators. I believe the "Carlesque" styled mixed media illustrations with the simple line cartoons in her   books are  an unexpected treat.  Mixed media illustrations are very popular and appealing for young readers as evidenced by the popularity of Eric Carle's kids' books.  By combining geography with mixed media- I believe that Roman will generate even greater interest and attention for her educational series. This sets her books apart from cartoon only illustrations.

The consistency of these geography books makes this series perfect for the school setting. An educator can count on the fact that students will be introduced to the basics. There is enough detail to make this series appropriate for middle school and even high school students as well.


  It would be great to see this series used as part of a  school geography or social studies curriculum.  It is clear that each book, though simple in design, presents a wealth of information and research.   This book as well as the other books in the series is available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Assisted suicide or euthenasia- what's your view?

Most people have heard of the idea of living wills and advanced directives- especially those who work in the healthcare field. Those living with chronic progressive and/or terminal illness and their families, most likely are also knowledgeable about advanced directives and living wills. Hospice services help those patients with a terminal illness to receive comfort care in their final days.    Palliative care services aides those who may or may not be eligible for hospice, but  have intractable pain or other needs that might not be fully met with mainstream pain management alone.

Assisted suicide, is an entirely separate concept, and it is not legal in the United States.  Commonly referred to as euthanasia, the idea of assisted suicide is a complicated subject, and is distinct from Hospice services.  Personally I have known some confused individuals and even healthcare professionals who  may even equate hospice and palliative care services to be no different than euthanasia.  Yes, it is true that effective pain and symptom management might require increasing doses of medication to be effectively controlled, nevertheless this is not considered euthanasia or suicide. Although for some living with terminal illness, there is the rare occasion that severe intractable pain  might need to be treated with palliative sedation, in no way is this to be equated with euthanasia or assisted suicide.


Dignitas- assisted suicide video - This video depicts the last day of a man in the later stages of  a terminal neuro-degenerative illness. It is the policy of Dignitas, the assisted suicide service organization-  to take a video of the patient for the purposes of establishing that his death was not coerced and to rule out a crime when an investigation is conducted.  For this reason, one may come across assisted suicide videos on the internet.  In this video, can see that the man's degenerative conditions has progressed so as to cause almost a full body paralysis and to impair his ability to breath on his own.  It is clear even with ventilation support, the work of breathing is debilitating for this man. One can see his gasps for breath as he talks.  It is obvious the man is suffering physically and emotionally, and that his mental awareness and cognitive ability is fully intact.  Also this is not legal in this country, nor should it be legalized,  it is hard to place judgment, nonetheless,  on this man's decision, nor should one presume to make judgment on this man's personal decision to end his life.   I was unable to find any information if this man had access to hospice programs. One can not say with assurance if this man had access to Hospice, if he would have still experienced the hopelessness, distress and physical pain leading to his decision.  Nevertheless, I have seen the effectiveness of hospice programs in alleviating the physical and emotional distress of alleviating individuals in terminal stages of illness ranging from cancer to degenerative neuro- motor diseases.  I personally feel its worth while to make hospice more accessible to patients and to take measures to reduce the fear and stigma that many associate with hospice programs.

Your Guide to the Apocalypse: What You Should Know Before the World Comes to an End by Matt Hagee

Your Guide to the Apocalypse: What You Should Know Before the World Comes to an End by Matt Hagee   is the perfect guide book for those who have ever been curious about what the bible has to say about the end times.  The apocalypse is a common theme these days- especially since 2012 with psuedo- scientific and social predictions of the end of the world. A popular genre in movies as well as novels, it is difficult for the casual reader to sort out the pop culture views from biblical reality.  The bible has much to say about the end times, but it may difficult for the average reader to decode- and sort through the relevant prophetic related scriptures that are woven throughout the old and new testament.  In his new book, Hagee does thorough research into matching up political, social environmental events with what the bible has to say about the end times. This book is written in a mater of fact narrative style, that is simple for all readers no matter where they may be in their spiritual growth. Bible readers as well as the general audience will be able  to learn much about what the bible has to say about the end times.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Waterbrook press for the purpose of writing this review.

100 Favorite Bible Verses By Thomas Nelson Published by Thomas Nelson

100 Favorite Bible Verses By Thomas Nelson  Published by Thomas Nelson is a beautiful, portable devotional book features 100 of the most relevant or popular bible verses.  This compendium is certain to feature many familiar bible verses.  Each two page spread features a beautifully illustrated bible verse and a short devotional that expands on the verse.  I found the devotional passages to be enlightening,. making me think abut familiar verses in an entirely new way.  For example, just about everyone has heard of the "Love Is" passage from Corinthians.  It is commonly cited in anniversary cards, for example.  Yet how many considered that this can be applied to any relationship such as with interactions with grumpy coworkers or gossiping neighbors?  Its sounds counterintuitive for many to apply this beloved passage to enemies, but that is what Jesus asks us to do.  The devotional passage opened up an entirely way to read into this sometimes overused passage which is often used as a common catchphrase in romantic relationships.  There were other eye opening insights for commonly known bible verses as well.  I'd recommend this book to any bible believer in whatever stage of spiritual growth they may be in.  Whether a new believer in the bible wanting an introduction to basic memory verses or an experienced bible enthusiast who wants new insight into familiar bible passages this book will not be a disappointment.  This book is not simply a superficial survey of popular verses.  Rather it offers meaningful, in depth insight.  The beautiful book is reminiscent of the art featured in the "Beautiful Word" Zondervan series of bibles and devotionals, but is not associated with the series.  There is some common styled graphics and art, but this book features bible verses from the NIV, NLT and NKJV as well as other translations.  As a blogger for booklook I received a copy of this book published by Thomas Nelson for the purpose of writing this review.

Foundations of Drawing: A Practical Guide to Art History, Tools, Techniques, and Styles by Al Gury

Foundations of Drawing: A Practical Guide to Art History, Tools, Techniques, and Styles by Al Gury is an all in one volume- an art technique course and history rolled into one.  If you are looking for one single art book to introduce you to art instruction as well as a brief introduction to art history, then this is the only book you will need.  Perfect for the beginning artist as well as the established professional, this book will open the reader to new art methods and the history behind creating art.  This is definitely a book you will return to often, for reference as well as for instruction.  This book is like having your own personal art instructor at your finger tips.  Also included are beautiful reproductions of art, step by step photos of the stages of art as well as photographs.  Be sure to take this book with you as well when compiling and shopping for your artistic tools.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Potter/Ten Speed/ Harmony publishers.  This is certainly a book that will be treasured; an essential reference for all artists.

Night Night, Train By Amy Parker Published by Thomas Nelson

Night Night, Train is the newest picture board book By Amy Parker  Published by Thomas Nelson.  Parker's bed time themed picture books are part of our bedtime routine for my 2 and 4 year old.  This newest picture book features beautiful colorful art and the popular train theme.  The serene animal  cartoons and peaceful nighttime sky with the bright moon and the stars will serve as a perfect way to prepare young children for med.  The dreamlike story covers everything from dinner to bathtime, story time and prayer time on the quaint nostalgic train ride.  This book will be enjoyed just as much by girls as it will be enjoyed by boys.  As a blogger for Booklook I received a copy of this book published by Thomas Nelson for the purpose of writing this review.