"Lead Your Family Like Jesus" by Ken Blanchard, Phil Hodges, and Tricia Goyer

Snack of Choice:
My internationally known Rice Krispy treats. No credit to me for the receipt, but it’s all in the execution. Here are two keys I will share with you to have success with these treats. One, use finely cut butter, don’t buy into the “You can use margarine too” talk – you can’t. Two, despite the cute commercials, don’t let your kids help make them – it’s a sure fire way to ruin them.

Story behind the Story:
Speaking of kids, the two in our house just turned two – and in reality, I can’t wait to make treats with them. However, the gravity of this progression is making me nauseous! So, I was looking for some leadership, and even NPR thinks Ken Blanchard is an authority on the subject. Litfuse Publicity provided me with a copy of this Tyndale title as a part of the blog tour for the book.

Story Line:
Three authors, experts, and parents share the incredible responsibility of parenthood from the perspective of “What Would Jesus Do?” How would He lead your family? What examples did He set for us?  Each author takes turns writing chapters under three parts – the Heart, the Head, the Hands, and the Habits.

The Real Story:
I haven’t read many parenting books, but I get the feeling they deal with a lot of the individual behaviors or specific ideas to train your children (think “Super Nanny”) – but that’s not this book. “Lead Your Family Like Jesus” is more about the vision and missions statements that define who and what your family is. It’s the bigger perspective of the culture that you are creating in your home. This “seeing the forest” perspective is refreshing. Take a step back from the crazy and the busy of family life and set your course.

I love that it’s filled with Scripture from which to draw these overarching principles. I don’t, however, like its overuse of “the Message” for the biblical text.  It’s supposed to be readable and relatable, but a cursory study of translation theory reveals that those priorities don’t always leave room for “reliable.”

I’m also trying to figure out how I feel about the multiple authors approach. There are a couple other books on my list with multiple authors, so I guess I’ll find out. These authors do seem to be on the same page together, but also have the opportunity for their individual voices to be heard.

Check out:
Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Luke 11:11-13

What parenting book would you recommend?

Rating:
4 out of 5 batches of Rice Krispies on the floor. Love those kids!

"The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant" by Terry Felber

Snack of Choice:

It’s not the authentic NY style, but for $5 you can’t really complain. Thank you, Caesar (but your better watch out for Brutus).  

Story behind the Story:
I’ve been craving the smell of a real book. You know what I mean, the ones that just smell like a library. I’m missing it this go round because of new technology. First book I officially read on the i-Pad. Check out the last time I tried to read an e-book: [Church in the Making]. Book Sneeze by Thomas Nelson provided a digital copy of this book.

Story Line:
Financial and Business Guru, Dave Ramsey highly recommends and passes this book around to everyone who comes on board his company.  The main tenet of the book is “The Merchant is a minister too.”  I love that. As a pastor, I love having fellow ministers in the market place partnering together to accomplish the purposes of the Lord.

This short story, set in the boom of Venice, shared how generations pass on 12 principles of business for the believer. The second half is a small group study guide that delves into some real life application of the story.  

The Real Story:
While I love the premise, I’m confounded by the seeming contradiction of messages.  Instead of being on the same team, the “monks” (ministers) are portrayed as misusing Scripture (104, digital) and discouraging the merchants who are supporting the Lord’s work with their money. One quote that seems to mark the authors belief of these roles is as follows: “God has designed a special relationship between businessmen and leaders in the church. We, as businessmen, can provide the provision for the vision of the priests” (135 – also see 136, 138).  But in truth, the “Great Commission” isn’t exclusively for ministers.  It does not say to the merchant, “Give you’re money, and let the monks do the witnessing, the teaching, the discipling.” It says, “All of us have are to get our hands dirty.”

Fortunately, the small group study got it right. “Under the new covenant, because all Christians now have the Holy Spirit, all believers are priests and can personally worship God and minister to God and his people” (148). “But whether in vocational ministry (monks) or ministry in the marketplace (merchants), we are call called to ‘go’”(149). “Everyone in [our] building knows that they’re operating under a higher calling, because our work is holy” (150).

There were some other contradictions between the story and the guide (ie. 77 & 162) to the point that it seemed to be written by two different authors. (See acknowledgements, looks like it was). Oh, and I wasn't a fan of the story telling either.

Check out:
Dave Ramsey stuff – great biblical principles for businesses and life.

The Book of Acts – all kinds of regular people serving God in extraordinary ways.

Rating:
3 out of 5 Venetian Trade Beads (and that's out of respect for the small group material).

"Bible Stories that End with a Hug" by Stephen Elkins (ill. by Simon Taylor-Kielty)

Snack of Choice:

Mr. Reese. I don’t know you personally, but I feel like we have a connection.  I’m not sure what other important things you’ve done in your life, but the pieces you somehow shaped have changed my life.  The “movie box” of Reese’s Pieces has been open!

Story behind the Story:
I’ve been on the hunt for some books that would really benefit my kids.  They LOVE books! In fact, they DIGEST books – literally. I think the Bible’s Ezekiel (3:3), Jeremiah (15:16), and John (Rev 10:10) would have a lot in common with these girls. Tyndale provided them with some pages to chew on (free copy) as long as they gave an honest review of the flavor vs. texture conundrum they’ve been dealing with.

Story Line:
Let me just point out the obvious, each of the 74 Bible Stories end with a hug! Awwww... Ok, now let’s move on. Also, essential, the book is designed for little ones.  Each Bible Story is on a two page spread. One page has title and Scripture where story is found along with an illustration with chubby kids filling the roles of David and Goliath (wouldn’t want to mess with him on the playground) as well as Daniel surrounded by some cuddly lions. The second page is a story summary with some questions in the middle. Along the far right column is the “BIG IDEA” application time. Each one ends with your kids giving you a hug. Maybe that’s why I like it so much.  Oh, and parents, feel free to give hugs back. The book is a padded hardcover with durable pages (for the most part).

The Real Story:
Children’s Bible story books are riddled with surface stories that don’t even contain any SCRIPTURE!  I understand the thought, but let’s give our kids more credit.  Let’s encourage them to READ the Bible, not just ABOUT the Bible.  I was very glad to see the balance in this book.  You are provided with the “story” portion, but you’re given God’s Word in two more ways. First, each story contains a passage reference to read together as they grow. And Second, a verse is written out that is pertinent to the subject matter. Love that!

Also there are A LOT of stories.  If you aren’t familiar with the stories of the Bible, it can be a great journey for you as a parent as well.  There is enough material in here to do devos with your kids (or without them) out of it for a while... then start again.

Check out:
Honestly, I can’t remember the name of it,  but my Mom used to read Bible stories from it. It was HUGE, I can still see the picture of Joseph being thrown into the pit by his brothers. His story has stuck with me because of that.

Rating:
5 out of 5 tasty morsels of the Word of God.

OH, and the girls said that the first purple page was especially tasty!

"What You Need to Know About Bible Prophecy" by Max Anders

Snack of Choice:

Those mini powdered doughnuts. Not doughnut holes, just mini’s. While I don’t mind the white powdered ones, I prefer the cinnamon ones.  But beggars can’t be choosers considering I have none of them in the house right now.  But I can almost taste it – that count’s right?

Story behind the Story:
I first encountered Max, may I call him Max? Ok. Sorry. Mr. Anders. I first encountered Mr. Anders... oh, DR. Anders... [sigh]. My wife bought me a set of commentaries with this distinguished theologian as it’s editor (Holman), so when I saw his name, I figured I could go with it. Also, it was a nice complement to “Dug Down Deep” which totally avoided the “Bible Prophecy” and eschatological discussion (end times).  Thomas Nelson provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.

Story Line:
Sometimes when we talk about Bible prophecy, we jump to those end time debates; but Dr. Max takes his time to introduce the idea of prophecy and it’s part in the story of the Bible. It’s one book in a series of “What you need to know[s]” that deal with many key doctrines of the Bible. It is intended to be a study that is broken up into 12 lessons with application times at the end of each.  He is methodical in defining terms and ideas that are important to understanding the whole. He gives each perspective a “chance” to speak without ridicule and shame.

The Real Story:
There is a tendency when dealing with difficult subjects to give credence to every viewpoint without pointing out potential weaknesses.  I appreciate the focus on what we do agree on; but as a book written by a Biblical scholar, I’d expect to hear an opinion.  The following seems to sum up the Doctor's philosophy:  

Equally bright, well-educated, spiritually mature people hold to different views of the Millennuim.  Therefore, we must conclude that we are now not able to discern the true interpretation of Scripture and that, in God’s grace, there will often be more than one interpretation that is responsible, even if none gains the full agreement of all our brothers and sister in Christ.  As a result, while each of us holds a deep conviction concerning our own view, we should do so with grace and with respect for others who hold one of the other two positions (99).

Let me be clear, I agree with the above statement; but I’m disappointed that Dr. Anders didn’t share his deep conviction with us.

Some of the standout aspects of this books format is “Speed Bumps” with discussion questions, fill in the blanks, deeper study, and additional resources. Great, great stuff!  Helps the reader to slow down and make sure they know what they are learning. I love the way the main headings in question form are answered in a definition sort of way before details are delved into. For example, [Heading] “What is the Rapture?” [Sub heading in italics] “The Rapture is the sudden departure of all Christians to meet Christ in the air.”

All in all, I still think this is a great resource for a believer who is trying to understand Bible prophecy.  I’d recommend it in conjunction with some godly counsel and, of course, God’s Word.

Check out:
Books of Daniel and Revelation – or “Dan/Rev” as Dr. Bowman always called it.

“Plowshares & Pruning Hook” by D. Brent Sandy – it’s a good conversation about how literal is literal. Subtitled: “Rethinking the Language of Biblical Prophecy and Apocalyptic”

Rating:
4 out of 5 fulfilled prophecies, and looking forward to the Lord taking care of the rest. 

"Dug Down Deep" by Joshua Harris

Snack of Choice:

It’s a classic. The original Frosted Mini-Wheats. Except take the mini out of it. I like the big bite ones. The ones I grew up with and gave me the energy to be the student that I was always supposed to be.  At least that’s what the ad agency wanted me to believe.  

Story behind the Story:
Speaking of classics – this author’s previous work is a permanent fixture in the halls of classic Christian literature.  You know the one I’m talking about.  If you went through puberty in the Christian culture in the late 90’s, you’ve kissed dating goodbye at least once, too.  So of course I wanted to see if the author had moved beyond the dating scene. And Multnomah was happy to oblige me. They provided me with a free copy of “Dug Down Deep,” and in return I provide the honest review.

Story Line:
In a world of shallow faiths, Joshua Harris sets out to explain what grounds us in ours.  It’s a self-proclaimed systematic theology book – meaning that it addresses topically issues of theology (God, Man, Sin, etc.), but unlike many of those books it is filled with personality, testimony, illustrations, and conversation. Like the back of the book says, “Readable. Relevant. Powerful.”

Strong theology is set against the backdrop of the Amish community (made more powerful by just one episode of “Breaking Amish”), his father’s faith story, and his own journey’s mistakes and breakthroughs.

The Real Story:
While reading this work, I kept forgetting he’s not still 21. Not his fault, just my own bias. And, I think, as a result, I’m blown away by his grounded words and excellent content.

Thematically, Josh Harris addresses the issues that many contemporary books are also talking about – the problems of casual Christianity.  Books and movements like “Not a Fan” and “I Am Second” are exposing our need, but my personal feeling is that this book provides the Scripture and God’s work in our lives as the primary source of that firm ground.  This book is filled with Scripture and their references.  So essential! And so lacking in much of the Christian pop books (aka, “Christian Living”) that fill the shelves of Christian bookstores. I was also glad to see a study guide tacked on to the end, great small group material.

He took some risks (and I was glad) on specifics of Christian theology that tend to put people in camps, but his heart was evident throughout his writing.  Even if you disagreed with a point of his theology, you couldn’t disregard him as a follower of Christ, because you could sense the humility and passion for the truth. It’s hard to be angry with someone like that.

Noticeably absent was any eschatological material (End Times stuff).  Maybe those camps are just too entrenched for any type of discussion among this “humble orthodoxy.”

Check out:
“Not a Fan” by Kyle Idleman - While I’m not the books biggest fan, I still appreciate it in conjunction with this one.

Rating:
5 out of 5 rocks on which to build your house and life.

"Wait No More" by Kelly and John Rosati

Snack of Choice:

Can I just say, I think I’ve rediscovered pretzels!  Not only is it a fantastic word to say – “pretzels”– it’s also a healthy snack.  Did youknow it’s fat free?  I’m surprised thatAuntie Anne’s hasn’t picked up that advertising factoid.

Story behind the Story:
You know how you’d like to read a book addressed to a very specific and perhapssmall audience, but know that its to obscure to get a publisher to stand behindit?  I wanted a book addressing adoptionby believers through the U.S.foster care system. Ta-da! Thank you Tyndale and Focus on the Family.  May is National Foster Care Month, but thatdoesn’t mean I’m required to give a positive review.

Story Line:
The Rosati family has six members.  Buttheir journey isn’t what you think.  Godplaced this family together piece by piece in various ways and circumstances,but all their children had one thing in common – a life before the RosatiFamily.  “Wait No More” is one family’samazing adoption journey through the United States Foster Care system. Just towarn you, it’s not like the commercials you hear on talk radio. It’s filledwith difficulties and disappointments and victories and miracles – and theywouldn’t trade it for the world.

Kelly and John (sounds mostly like Kelly though) have a greatwriting style and storytelling ability.  Evento the end when you think there is nothing left to say, they pull out anotherincredible story.

The Real Story:
This book is exactly what I needed.  Mywife and I have seen the struggles and frustrations of the Foster Care system,and we’ve only been doing this for a year this month.  Not only do you raise children in your housewithout knowing the long term plan for their lives, but you have to deal with bureaucracyand reading between the lines of what your social worker tells you. “Chris,”you say, “you sound so frustrated!  Whydo it then? Why build your life around this flawed and faulty system?”  As a believer, I have to ask, “If I don’t doit. If I don’t step up – who will?” God has shown in so many ways His gracetoward my life, can’t I show a portion of that grace to the innocent around me?We are compelled to serve in this way because of HIS glorious love.

You can be a part of ministering to orphans and theinnocent.  READ THIS BOOK.  Look for all the different aspects of involvement. It’s not just being a foster parent. Youcan provide respite or childcare or support or advocacy!

This book will open your eyes to the reality of foster care andadoption.  One verse the Rosati’s sharedthat I love is Psalm 68:5-6: “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows,is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families,...”

Check out:
“Adoption” in Strong’s Concordance. WOW!

www.iCareAboutOrphans.org

“Adopted for Life” by Russell Moore. (I haven’t read it, but Ihave it on an audio book:)

Rating:
6 out of 6 children and families who will wait no more.

"Beyond Talent" by John Maxwell

Snack of Choice:

The place were a burger means two patties and a jr only means one. That’s right, Five Guys and pile on the fries. Am I the only one who is a fan of the malt vinegar on ‘em? And no, they did not require a positive review in order for me to eat there, but I wouldn’t mind if they gave me a gift card ;) Oh... and did you know you can order online or with their iphone app? Life is GOOD!

Story behind the Story:
The last of my latent reviews. Whew. Thomas Nelson provided me with a copy of this book and, similar to Five Guys, does not require a positive review.

Story Line:
Repackaged for a new generation...well, actually, the same generation.  This is a republishing of the 2007 book under the original title “Talent is Never Enough,” but apparently heeded my homiletics professor’s warning about using negatives in your messaging. From leadership guru, John Maxwell, we learn that, yes, talent, is important, but you can’t depend on it alone for extraordinary results and success. The chapter titles reveal the necessity of passion, initiative, focus, teachability, and teamwork among others to truly be successful.  

The Real Story:
Many pastors and Christian leaders love books by John Maxwell. I do too, but let’s be real -- much of Mr. Maxwell’s material is focused on the leaders in the business world.  I’m not saying that what he writes does not apply the church and its leaders, but it makes it all the more difficult to sift through. I think maybe my problem with all of this is the focus on “success”.  I could see a Type-A personality going overboard with messages of “Successful people go the extra mile and are willing to spend as much time as it takes” to the detriment of life, health, and family. I can also see “tenacity” and “bull-headed determination” to adversity as the opposite reaction to how the Lord would have us to deal with difficulty. Be sure, however, I’m not talking about laziness or compromising or character-less-ness. (Yes, that is a word... maybe).

Leadership is not limited to the strong and courageous and the “type A” personality. Although it would have a different presentation, leadership can be true of a quiet and reserved individual who is willing to follow the Lord anywhere. So, if you aren’t “type A leadership material,” don’t be discouraged.  God uses the weak things of this world to “confound” the wise.

Ok, with that being said, it is a “leadership” book with many valuable insights.

Check out:
Nehemiah – now THAT’S a book on leadership!

“Church in the Making” by Ben Arment – Leadership for church-planters or those who want to understand it.

“Radical Together” by David Platt – great direction and humility for church leaders.

Rating:
3 out of 5 embroiled CEOs.

"Sun Stand Still" by Stephen Furtick

Snack of Choice:
Cheerios. Unfortunately, not the Honey-nut kind. Cause the kids aren't supposed to have honey yet, blah blah blah.  Eat them one at a time, they last longer... I mean much longer.

Story behind the Story:
Waterbrook Multnomah provided this book to me for review through the Blogging for Books program.

Story Line:
The tag line for “Sun Stands Still” reads, “What happens when you dare to ask God for the impossible?” It's based on Joshua's prayer to God found in Joshua 10 during the midst of battle. As the sun was going down the battle was not over and daylight was needed for victory to be complete. Joshua's “Audacious Faith” moved in heart of God and an amazing thing happened – the Sun Stood Still.

Written by Pastor Steven Furtick of mega-church Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC, the author inserts some of his own journey and the founding of Elevation. He also brings in stories of those who saw God's hand move in a mighty way because of their “audacious faith” – key words throughout the book.

The Real Story:
When I say, I've been there, done that, bought the t-shirt – It's true (except for the t-shirt, that was FREE). I was first introduced to Pastor Furtick through the first Elephant Room hosted by James MacDonald. Then experienced Elevation while visiting family in Charlotte. Oh, and he sent me a birthday card. Let's just get this out in the open – Mega-church pastors are easy targets for theological debate. Pick out their “faults” is child's play. Don't believe everything you hear.  This is true -- I believe without a doubt that God is using this ministry to reach many who are far from God. Let's rejoice over that!

As for the book, sometimes it feels like you're in the middle of a conversation. Pastor Furtick's preaching vocabulary is one of a kind, and he writes like he preaches. In my opinion, better to be heard than to be read. It's not all just fun and games “Pray, believe, and watch God move” - it's not as clean as all that and this book weighs that out. As he says, “This book is not a Snuggie.”

Check out:
The Book of Joshua: unbelievable stories of God's mighty hand.

www.elevationchurch.org

Rating:
4 out of 5 setting suns reversed.

"Is the Bible Reliable?" by TrueU and Stephen Myer

Snack of Choice:
Girl Scout cookies… Need I say more? Cause I can. Tagalongs. I think we’ve spent an entire paycheck on those puppies. I mean at $4 a box and 50% less cookies, they go fast! 
Story behind the Story:
Tyndale offered me this resource. I don’t need to write a positive review, but I know they would at least appreciate a review.

Story Line:
This is the second DVD study in the TrueU series by Focus on the Family. The first one “Does God Exist,” defends the truth by defeating erroneous objections to His existence. The second one focuses on His Word, the Bible – “Is the Bible Reliable?”. If you’ve heard of the “Truth Project,” highly recommended study material, you’re covering the same basic material in a different format. It’s repackaging is intended to draw young people and college students who are faced daily with rejecting or defending the faith.

The Real Story:
Set in a college classroom feel, you begin to think you should be paying by the credit hour. This series of lectures is very good and extremely detailed.  Dr. Myer (he really is a Dr. like not-just-playing-one-on-TV-but-also-not-the-one-who-does-CPR) takes his time and doesn’t feel forced to answer ALL the skeptics in one session. The study book was a nice addition, and the features on the DVD to “advertise” to your church or group we’re helpful. If you’re looking for curriculum that will equip believers and answer the skeptic, you’ve come to the right place. I’m sure they will continue to work through many of the same topics as the “Truth Project” and I look forward to seeing more.
Check out:
The Book of Romans: the thesis on God and His doctrine.

www.4Truth.net – Great Apologetic resource from the North American Mission Board of the SBC.

Rating:
5 out of 5 DVD box sets

"Church in the Making" by Ben Arment

Snack of Choice:
Cranberry Sauce. Ocean Spray Jellied Cranberry Sauce. No chunks, please. Right out of the cold refrigerated can and all by itself. No better way to end the night. You think I'm joking... ask the wife, I'm dead serious. Not just because of the holiday's (Thanksgiving and Christmas), but just because it's just plain good. Although it would go nicely with a Pillsbury crecent roll. Ah...


Story behind the Story:
I signed up to read the galleys on NetGalley.com. If you don't know what a galley is, google it... then tell me. This is the first e-book I was approved to read and review from B&H Publishers. Only problem is I don't read ebooks. This experience kinda settled it for a little while at least. But I really was interested in reading this book, so I bought it! 


Story Line:
So how do you start a church from scratch? How do you reach a community with the greatest news known to man? For those whose success is evident, "God is just blessing" is an easy fall back. But what factors does God use to prepare the way before you? Does an "unsuccessful" church planter mean that God has not blessed his ministry? Ben Arment digs deeper into the socio-economic framework of church planting mixed with the work of the Holy Spirit in a community.


The Real Story:
Here it is -- one of the best books I've read in a while. Ben Arment's writing style is so incredibly readible but with alot of depth. It reveals the work of the Holy Spirit through preparation of the ground, through momentum, and through deep roots. He deals with the hardships of church planting without yielding to "church talk." This book would fit into the curriculum of a Church Planting class as well in the hands of the church member. 


Check out:
Pastoral Epistles like 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus


"Church Planting is for Wimps: How God Uses Messed-up People to Plant Ordinary Churches that Do Extraordinary Things" by  Mike McKinley (Cause I like the title -- full discloser: never read it)


Rating:
5 out of 5 deeply rooted church planted trees

"From the Library of A. W. Tozer" by James Stuart Bell

Snack of Choice: 
The childhood favorites are still in style. Drakes Coffee Cakes reign supreme in the Collins household, especially at the 2 for $5 price. Adding to the tradition is new revolution in coffee that has taken me by storm, and at the helm is the Caribou blend K-cup. The duo is dynamo and without equal – cause I only use sugar and cream.

Story behind the story:
I feel like it's been two years since I've done a review. SO MUCH has changed, but I've promised to keep the sentimental for another day and another blog. This particular selection is courtesy of Bethany House publishers. They don't require a positive review, but they would like a review. So here we go..


Story Line:
Someone raided Tozer's library. From Augustine of Hippo (AD 354 – 430) to his contemporaries, like G. Campbell Morgan (1863-1945), and all the great theologians in between show their faces in this work. I'm not sure how they compiled this work – was it based on those he quoted in his own works or was it revealed by the polaroid of his office? – still unsure...

The short topical excerpts are broken up in almost a systematic theology. Beginning with worship and working through each member of the Trinity, and addressing issues like prayer and the Christian life – these authors are squeezed for every drop of nourishment they can provide.

I have to say, I hope no one judges me on the contents of my library - I'm still working on it


The Real Story:
A. W. Tozer is one of those names within the Christian community that has been elevated to the realms of the “classics”. This quotable author produced works such as “Pursuit of God” and “Knowledge of the Holy” that leave the reader breathless, challenged, and changed. I've never felt that way; mainly because I have never read his work. So this was my great chance, or so I thought. I misread or misunderstood the content of the book and was anticipating a “best of” collection. I, honestly, was disappointed, but through no fault of the author or its publisher.

Attempting to dismiss that disappointment, I do find value in this resource. It's for sure a great coffee table book, nightstand book, or any other place you might sit and spend time but not too much time... It has potential to be more in the right hands, but I'm just not sure if mine are adequate.

Check out:

Proverbs for more wisdom in small doses.

Anything by Spurgeon!

Rating:

3 out of 5 books on a famous guys shelf

"Life of Andrew Jackson" Ed. John S. Jenkins

Snack of Choice:Drinking Chocolate Milk these days. And snacked on some old birthday cake with a “Racing Automotive 2” theme (if you get my animated drift). I may not get paid for this, but I am certainly not going to get sued by Disney either (after all, I have been associated with the Southern Baptists)!!

Story behind the story:
This Attic Books/New Leaf Publishers book was sent to me by request with no requirement to write a positive review. That’s the story… Yeah, that’s it.

Story Line:
Andrew Jackson – He’s more than just a 20 dollar bill! He was president, you know. He was just a young boy when the Revolution broke out, but he has at least one legend that follows him. He was known for his “scuffles” with the Indians (not even gonna touch that one). Battle of New Orleans, relentless, stubborn, and strong.

"The Priest with the Dirty Clothes" by R.C. Sproul

Snack of Choice:

There are days that you just need to celebrate victories. Today was one of those days, so I celebrated with a small (and I mean small) coffee and Boston Cream donut from the KING... of Donut’s, Mr. Dunkin. Thanks for the memory!

Story behind the story:
I received an electronic copy of this children’s book to review from Reformation Trust. No contract necessary! (and no requirements for a positive review). I had to come back after the great experience with “The Prince’s Poison Cup.”

Story Line:
R.C. Sproul, one of the great Christian thinkers of our time, has a desire to make complex theological concepts that make adult minds swirl and eyes glaze into something that even a child can understand. This story deals with the Imputation of Justification (that was fun). Basically, “how we are made acceptable to God through Jesus Christ’s righteousness” (5). It’s is rooted in the Scriptural event found in Zechariah 3:1-5 and the story of the Joshua (the high priest in the Biblical book of Zechariah, not the winner of Moses’ series finale of “The Apprentice”)

"Dragons: Legends and Lore of Dinosaurs"

Snack of Choice:

Peanut Butter and Jelly, green apple pieces, and chocolate milk is about all I'm getting these days. We've recently received a placement of two kids (Big Mac - 6 years and Small Fry - 9 months [but please don't call them that in public]) to stay with us a while. 

Story behind the story:
New Leaf Publishers (Master Books) provided this product to me a while ago, and I hesitated to review it, because I don't have the perspective of a six year old and I had strong feelings about it on my own.

Story Line:
Who DOESN'T love dragons. So obviously this would be a book for everyone. So what's the story? It's the history of Dragons from a creationist stand point. There are incredible pictures and some interactive material that make for some interesting discoveries.

Now an AWARD WINNING BLOG!

It's nice to add blue ribbons to a pig, even nicer to reward a blog with GREEN. Thanks Blogging for Books for the nod and for the dough. It will be wisely used! See my AWARD WINNING REVIEW of Radical!

The following is from an e-mail of notice I received:

Remember that blog review link you submitted to us in order to win a $--- Visa gift card?

Congrats! You’ve won!
We’ll be sending you your $--- Visa Gift Card next week. We’ll be sending them to the address you have on file with us through BloggingForBooks.org. If you would like us to send them elsewhere, please let us know where you would like it sent.
Congrats!

And here's what went out to the masses (check out some of the other winners as well):

MAY WINNERS

Congrats to Erin Mifflin. Her review of When the Hurt Runs Deep by Kay Arthur was the highest ranked review in the month of May. Erin won a Toshiba Netbook computer.

Congrats to Tarena Beckham who had the best quality review under the Family Life / Mom's category in the month of May and won a spa package.

Congrats to the following bloggers who submitted their best book review and won a $--- Visa Gift Card...

Aaron Matthews
Ragamuffin Gospel

For starters, we love Aaron's blog design. His review includes an image of the book cover, an embedded YouTube video of Brennan Manning and finally, he used the Blogging for Books "get code" feature to get others to rank his review.

Jeremiah Perdue
Radical Together

We enjoyed how Jeremiah incorporated links to external sources supporting his review. We also appreciate how Jeremiah engaged 100% with the book and did a great job communicating the main threads and takeaways from David Platt's new book, Radical Together.

Renee Smith
When The Hurt Runs Deep

Renee's blog is the perfect example of a book review that is original and unique. Many bloggers start a book review with, "I just read.." or "This is a book review for..."
This may sound weird...but a book review doesn't have to focus on the book. It can be more about discussing the subject matter in the book...how it impacts you, makes you feel or opens you up to something new. That said, we love how Renee tied her review to the book and the author, while keeping her post interesting and thought-provoking. With such a great review, it's no wonder Renee had 49 people leave comments on her blog post.

Melinda Fathel
Redeeming Love

We loved how Melinda embedded the first chapter excerpt using the Scribd embed feature. We also liked how she embedded a link to purchase on a retailer's site.

Chris Collins
Radical

We really liked how Chris embedded the video at the top of his review. We also liked that the video was nice and big. Chris' review was also quite unique in the way that he laid it out.

 Momma always said there was something special about me! Hope this is what she meant :)

THIS JUST G-MAILED!

Just found out this item has been shipped! Very excited about it. Here's a description from the website:

Who is God, and how can we know Him? The Bible claims to be the direct revelation of our Creator. So if the biblical record is true, it is a primary means by which the God of the universe has revealed Himself to mankind. However, if it can be proved false, then the God of whom it speaks is simply one more pretender in the assembly of gods that man has created. 

In 'Is the Bible Reliable?' Dr. Stephen Meyer challenges you to examine the historical and archaeological evidence to determine for yourself the veracity and accuracy of biblical Scripture. Is the Bible true? You decide. 

Includes two DVDs, each with five 30-minute lessons, and a 96-page, two-color discussion guide. Discussion guide also sold separately.


Retail: $39.99
My Cost: $0


This is better than couponing!
http://mediacenter.tyndale.com/1_products/details.asp?isbn=978-1-58997-569-9

How to Get Free Books -- Again

I've had several conversations recently about how this process works (getting free books). So I thought I would share a previous post that's gives great information about how easy and beneficial it is. I wrote it, of course :)! Enjoy the benefits of my labor...
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Here's a quick guide to getting free books:

To set up an easy to use blog: www.blogger.com (It's well known and has a good reputation).

The blog your reading this on (mine) is an example.

For the BEST publishers and selections:

http://www.booksneeze.com/ (Thomas Nelson) click on "Available Books" tab to see whats available now. They do a pretty good job of adding others frequently. [Now they have limited the books they "show" if you aren't signed in -- so sign up and sign in.]

http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/bloggingforbooks (Waterbrook/Multnomah). Another with great selection and really easy to ue website.

I'm reposting a previous blog entry about how to get free books. I've had several conversations recently

Those are the two best in terms of selection and ease of use, but there is also:

Tyndale - http://mediacenter.tyndale.com/X_TBN/X_Secure/login.asp?redirectURL=/X_TBN/1_home/dashboard.asp

NavPress - http://www.navpress.com/BloggerReviewProgram.aspx

You can keep the blog VERY simple just in order to get the books. They are just looking to generate interest in their product. You'll probably be asked to post the review on Amazon.com or the equivalent.

[A new dispensation that is being fleshed out is using the e-reader format. I imagine the selection would be wider for these products. If you are an e-reader fanatic (that is -- if you have one), check out www.NetGalley.com. There you have access to MANY publishers all in one place. You have to be more discerning in what material you pick up there, but you have access to B&H publishers as well as a host of others]

Let me know if you have ANY questions. I love to see people get free books they enjoy.