When I opened this book, I was introduced immediately to the main character. I found what his strengths and weaknesses were. Shayia is a young man who is eager to learn all he can about being a warrior. He’s swift with the sword and strong in his agility. Although these are useful, it is not the most important weapon in his arsenal.
Shayia’s grandfather and mentor, Ennus, shows him that his true strength comes from God. He cannot lean on his own abilities as a good swordsman to save him in battle. As part of his lessons, Shayia must read from the Sacred Book. But he only wishes to practice fighting and finds it difficult to study. Knowing he will need it most of all, Ennus has Shayia continue on with them.
For darkness will soon descend on the valley...
I love fantasy! In fact, it’s probably my favorite genre. I received the opportunity to read this book from the author, Kimberli Campbell. I realize that I’m an adult, but I could not help liking this.
I would describe The Sword of Light as fantasy/allegorical/adventure. The allegorical message is that we must rely on God for our strength. Life can be a big and scary place out there and we have to be prepared for whatever comes our way. I believe that there are spiritual battles going on in all of our lives and we must wield the Word of God like a sword. Not in a violent way, of course! *Lol*
I really can’t say anything bad about this book. The characters are amusing, the story literally clings to you, and after you’ve read it, you’re dying to pick up the next one in the series.
I highly recommend The Sword of Light to tweens who adore fantasy. Just to point out some things to parents - there is sorcery, fight scenes, and scary creatures. I would say that if your tween likes The Chronicles of Narnia or The Lord of the Rings, then they should have no problems with this.
Letters to God on a Prodigal Son consists of letters that were written by author Anita Estes. She dated each segment, and they are similar to journal entries. The author added something incredibly helpful with almost all of the chapters. There are areas in the book called Lessons Learned and Suggestions. Anita shows what she learned in that situation and offers advice on it.
Writing with the pain that only a mother could express, Anita shares with us the story of her son. Starting at the beginning, the author didn’t realize how serious her son’s addiction to drugs and alcohol was. Being a mother, she wanted to protect and shelter him. But she realized that this was not the best way for him to change. With a lot of tough love, she worked hard on him. Taking him to church and counseling are two of the ways she did this. She also never gave up praying or hoping that her son would come back to them. And the only true way for her son to recover was to give him completely over to God.
I like reading about people’s lives to see if I can glean something from them. And I did from this. It’s to never give up on someone. To keep praying for them even if it feels like it’s doing nothing. God always hears your prayers.
Letters to God on a Prodigal Son is an ideal book for families and/or friends of individuals who struggle with addictions. “…But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Luke 15:20 NIV
Mackenzie Allen Phillips's youngest daughter, Missy, has been abducted during a family vacation, and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in an abandoned shack deep in the Oregon wilderness. Four years later, in this midst of his great sadness, Mack receives a suspicious note, apparently from God, inviting him back to that shack for a weekend. Against his better judgment he arrives at the shack on wintry afternoon and walks back into his darkest nightmare. What he finds there will change his life forever.
Of all Paul's epistles, it is in Ephesians that we find the highest spiritual truths concerning the Christian life. At the same time it is intensely practical. The study guide is broken into four lessons covering the book's introduction and each of the three chapters. The lessons can also be divided into several sessions. Use for individual study and reflection and/or group study.
In the spirit of C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien, The Lamb among the Stars series weaves the worlds of science and the spirit, technology and the supernatural into something unique and haunting. On the faraway planet of Farholme, humans live in peace under the gentle rule of the Assembly. War and evil are ancient history. But suddenly, almost imperceptibly, things begin to change. Slowly a handful of men and women begin to realize that evil has returned and it must be fought.
Contributor Rescued By God is doing this awesome giveaway during our blogoversary! Thank you, RBG! =) She has a new website that she just put up. Go check it out! *Be sure to enter her album giveaway.
Giveaway Rules:
This is a unique giveaway for us, because we've never done anything like it. Just pick one book from the three titles shown above and leave a comment. If you win, you will receive that book. Have fun! In order to enter, you must leave a comment with your e-mail address (so that we can contact you). US and Canada only, please. This giveaway starts today and ends on March 30th. A winner will be picked randomly (using random.org) and announced on the 31st. We will contact the winner and notify them by their e-mail address. If the winner doesn't respond within a few days, we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)
Here's another giveaway to enter during our blogoversary celebration! We currently have FIVE giveaways on our blog. Tomorrow, we'll add a list of our giveaways that are running and coming soon (including book reviews). It's to make it less confusing and more easier for entering.
What is today's giveaway? MaryLu Tyndall has graciously offered to give a copy of Surrender The Night to one winner! I have been highly anticipating this! It released this month and it is the second book in the Surrender to Destiny Series. If you don't have the first (Surrender The Heart), here's a link to Amazon.
Synopsis:
Step into a breathtaking novel of adventure and romance set amid the War of 1812. During an assault by an enemy sailor, timid farm girl Rose McGuire is saved by the least likely of heroes—a British Naval Lieutenant. Now that he’s wounded, she’ll have to heal as well as hide him. Alex Reed is being aided and abetted by his enemy—albeit an innocent and attractive one. But he might be doing Rose more harm than good if his presence on her farm is discovered. As their love blooms, trouble looms. Will this couple survive another British invasion?
MaryLu is giving away Surrender The Night to one bookworm! In order to enter, you must leave a comment with your e-mail address (so that we can contact you). US and Canada only, please. This giveaway starts today and ends on March 27th. A winner will be picked randomly (using random.org) and announced on the 28th. We will contact the winner and notify them by their e-mail address. If the winner doesn't respond within a few days, we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)
It's here. It's finally here! Our first year blogoversary! Today marks the first day of our week-long celebration. We'll kick it off with a special giveaway for you all. This giveaway starts now and ends on the 26th of March. The winner will be announced on the 27th. The rules are basically the same except for a few changes made specifically for this one (be sure to read them before entering). I hope you've been anticipating this as much as we have. You brought your invitations, right? Just kidding! No invitation required. However, we do require that you have fun!
TCS has accomplished a lot in a full year of blogging. We've done multiple book reviews, interviews, giveaways, and so much more. But... what's really important are the relationships we've created with our bookworms - who have always made us smile! Blogging our way through the year, we've connected with wonderful Christian authors, publishers, and bloggers. None of this would have been possible without your support and encouragement. Thank you!
We hope that TCS has been a pleasant spot on the internet for you to hang out and read our posts. Our TCS Team has done a great job with keeping up the Facebook Fan Page and Twitter. Please, give them a holler on those pages. It'll be fun!
Will we continue TCS? Just think of this as our last hurrah... After we've cleaned up the confetti from our blogoversary celebration and finished all book reviews, we'll say our farewell. I hope this hasn't come as a shock to you all. Grace (that's me) won't disappear completely from being on the web. She will still be involved with designing and photography. Bloggers, expect a visit from her every so often! Alright, let's make our last celebration an AWESOME one! Tell everyone you can! Go! Go! Go!
Book and Bookmark Giveaway
We've never done anything like this before. For the guys out there, keep reading! We've made it so that anyone can enter. You can pick whatever book and bookmark you'd like to win.
2. Pick one paperback or hardcover book (Fiction, Christian Living, or whatever you wish) that is $9.99 or less. Visit this page to pick any one bookmark for $1.99 or less. Have fun!
3. After you've chosen, mention in your comment which book and bookmark you would like. Don't worry if the price changes over the week. If you win, we will still honor your choice. Once the winner has been chosen, we will order both the book and bookmark through CBD. And it will get sent to you!
4. That's all there is to it! Only followers of my blog can enter (GFC). Please, state in a comment that you're a follower. Before you enter, read the giveaway rules. *Thanks*If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
Giveaway Rules:
We're giving a book and a bookmark to one winner. In order to enter, you must leave a comment with your e-mail address (so that we can contact you) and your choice of a book and bookmark. If you do not leave an e-mail address and your picks, you won't be entered to win.US and Canada only, please. This giveaway starts today and ends on March 26th. A winner will be picked randomly (using random.org) and announced on the 27th. We will contact the winner and notify them by their e-mail address. If the winner doesn't respond within a few days, we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)
When I picked up Essentials of the Heart, the first thing that I noticed was the front cover of the book. It’s simple but sweet with the two red hearts strewn across it. Holding it in my hands, it’s not the biggest. This isn’t a problem because it’s perfect for carrying it with you. What I really like about this book are the areas where you can write out your reflections after every chapter (there are thirteen chapters). If you enjoy expressing your feelings or thoughts on paper, like I do, then you’ll find that corner absolutely essential.
Essentials of the Heart is divided up into two parts: decisions and disciplines. The author (Susan Weagant) draws from her life and shares bits and pieces of her journey with us. All the chapters seem to have specific verses from God’s Word that pertain to a certain subject. I love it! Christians should go to the Bible for their answers and put them side to side with what they’re learning.
Reflecting on what I read, I know that I have an even stronger longing to develop a closer relationship with God. Seeing what Susan does in her ministry with women is awesome. She has a heart to serve. Putting God first and others second should be what we do everyday. I really admire Susan for reaching out to women and encouraging them to pursue an intimate bond with God. In a study, it states that most Christians are known as being casual with their faith. I don’t know about you, but I want to be captive with mine. This is just one of the interesting points in Essentials of the Heart.
I recommend this guide-like book to women who seek the essentials to a closer walk with Him. I can imagine taking it with you to a quiet and cozy spot while reading Essentials of the Heart. While reading, it should make some kind of impact on you.
And… here’s your chance to get one into your hands! Susan Weagant is graciously giving away an autographed copy of it. Be sure to enter and ask any questions you might have for her.
Susan is giving away Essentials of the Heart to one bookworm! In order to enter, you must leave a comment with your e-mail address (so that we can contact you). US and Canada only, please. This giveaway starts today and ends on March 29th. A winner will be picked randomly (using random.org) and announced on the 30th. We will contact the winner and notify them by their e-mail address. If the winner doesn't respond within a few days, we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)
Alone and afraid, Mindy McLaurin enters a women’s penitentiary for embezzlement charges. She says that she’s not guilty. She suspects that a co-worker has pinned the embezzlement on her. While in prison, she’s also on a separate mission to find information within the walls. Mindy has two dilemmas: she must both clear her charges and snoop for a private investigator – who just happens to be her boyfriend.
Mindy starts her investigation by digging up any info on what happened to a young woman named Alexis. Fearing foul play, the mother of the young woman hired Mindy’s boyfriend, Mitch, to investigate the death. Mitch saw Mindy’s going behind bars as an opportune time. He hired - or rather used - her to look into the situation. But Mindy soon realizes that Mitch is hardly the guy for her, because he’s in no hurry to bail her out.
In captivity Mindy meets with many challenges. She creates enemies and friends inside the cold exterior of the prison. Not all is bad; she meets a handsome counselor and an unexpected individual. Through it all and in desperation, Mindy clings to God when being faced by deadly threats. Will she ever get out of prison alive and find who killed Alexis?
If I could sum up one word to describe Killing Time, I would say that it’s unique. Here’s the reason: the setting is located in a prison. K. Dawn Byrd really captures the hustle and bustle of the women’s penitentiary. It’s not pretty, nor is it pleasant. The inmates that meet the main character are mean and unfriendly towards her. The author realistically portrayed what it would be like to be stuck in such an inhospitable position.
I loved the areas of the book where Mindy clings to God because she feels so alone. If we were in her shoes, what would we do? Would we rely on God or ourselves to make things happen? Because the main character meets such hardened people, there’s some crudeness – but that’s expected. Watch out for the suspense, because it’s killer!
I liked what K. Dawn Byrd tackled in writing Killing Time, and I would definitely read more from her. I recommend it to women who like a mix of suspense, mystery, and romance.
Evelyn Puerto is the author of Beyond The Rapids. She was a missionary to Russia, Ukraine, Africa, Asia, and Europe. She resides in St. Louis, Missouri with her husband, three stepdaughters, two step-grandsons, and a cat.
I recently read and reviewed her book - I highly recommend it! Evelyn stopped by our blog to answer some questions with us. At the end of the interview, be sure to read our giveaway rules and enter to win her book!
Welcome, Evelyn!
On your site, it mentions that you were a missionary to Russia for seven years. What was that experience like?
Being a missionary is exciting, challenging, lonely, and humbling. I went with my plans for how I would serve God and the Russian people. What I didn’t expect was how many Russians would serve me and teach me and bless me with their friendship and deep faith. God changed me and used me in ways I didn’t expect, using, for example to make tortillas from scratch as a way to build relationships with people who ordinarily wouldn’t attend church.
Evelyn, I loved your book! The true story of the Brynza family is amazing, and I have to ask… what made you write Beyond The Rapids?
Thank you so much! During my missionary years, I traveled to Ukraine several times to join short term teams from my home church. Many people who went on these trips heard the Brynzas’ stories and were amazed and inspired by them. When I returned home, I was asked to write their story so that others could also be encouraged that God is still at work, even when it doesn’t seem like He is.
The events and information presented in the book are meshed together perfectly. How did you collect and assemble it all so well?
I’m not sure if I should say trial and error or the hand of God. Both are true. I went through several drafts, trying different formats, brainstorming with someone who was coaching me through the process. A major challenge was deciding what to include from the material I had gathered through interviews with the Brynza family, extensive reading about the Soviet Union, and my own knowledge of the culture. After about two years, God gave me an idea as I was praying about the book. I soon had note cards in rows and piles all over my living room floor, but once they were organized, I had the basic flow and structure of the book set.
Are there plans for more books farther down the road? If there are, would you mind sharing any details on them?
I don’t have immediate plans for other books, but I am toying with a few ideas. In the meantime, I am writing a series of devotionals based on Beyond the Rapids, and am posting them on my website.
What do you hope someone will be affected by the most from reading Beyond The Rapids?
When I wrote it, I was hoping that believers would be inspired to take our calling to study and apply the Word of God more seriously, to have closer relationships with God. What I am learning that many unbelievers have been challenged to reconsider their beliefs and many Christians say their faith has been strengthened.
Can you recommend websites for anyone that would be interested in helping those who are being persecuted?
There are many great Bible verses and quotes out there, but which of these apply to your journey in life?
Because I struggle so much with it, Romans 12:1 sums up my journey well. I have had to learn to live with what God gives and what He chooses to withhold, and to live in a way that is pleasing to Him, and not to me. Along similar lines, I often consider the quotation “preach the gospel always, and if necessary, use words.” I think I am indebted to St Francis of Assisi for that reminder that if I do not show the love of Christ in how I treat people, my words may not bear much fruit.
Randomly Fun Questions:
What are you currently reading?
A few days ago I finished Crime and Punishment by Dostoyevsky and now am in the middle of False Impressions by Jeffrey Archer and What Good is God? by Philip Yancey.
Do you prefer tea or coffee?
Definitely tea. It brings back fond memories of my years in Russia where drinking tea and eating chocolates is a major social activity.
How do you start your day off each morning?
I feed my cat, make my husband’s lunch and see him off, and have my time with the Lord, not always in that order. (Well, the cat is usually first because she’s the one whining.)
How can our bookworms best get in contact with you?
Thank you, Evelyn, for doing this interview and giveaway with us!
Book Giveaway!
Synopsis:
Imagine that you are a believer living in a communist country. You live with the knowledge that at any time you could be imprisoned, tortured, or killed simply because you are a Christian. Beyond the Rapids is the true story of Ukrainian pastor Alexei Brynza and his wife, Valentina, who endured persecution in a culture that was hostile to their faith as they struggled to raise their four children as believers. From the Great Terror of the 1930s to the time when believing in Christ is no longer a crime, this close-knit Ukrainian family quietly persisted through the years, trusting God for everything. The Brynzas' children, forced to choose between God and the communist system, wrestled with temptations of ambition, popularity, love, and wealth. For periods of their lives, one or more gave in. But God heard the faithful prayers of Alexei and Valentina, and eventually the Brynza family was able not only to survive while serving God, but to thrive. Their son-in-law, Igor Yaremchuk, adds his own testimony of coming to Christ with the help of miracles and atheistic propaganda. Beyond the Rapids is a story for all believers everywhere. If you're concerned about the erosion of religious freedom, if you are discouraged because your children have wandered far from God, if you long to stand firm in your faith in all circumstances, the Brynzas' testimony of God's faithfulness will provide hope and inspiration as you are reminded afresh that God is with you, in every moment. As you sail through the torrents in your own life, God will meet you right where you are and guide you to the smooth water beyond the rapids.
Evelyn is giving away Beyond The Rapids to one bookworm! In order to enter, you must leave a comment with your e-mail address (so that we can contact you). US and Canada only, please. This giveaway starts today and ends on March 24th. A winner will be picked randomly (using random.org) and announced on the 25th. We will contact the winner and notify them by their e-mail address. If the winner doesn't respond within a few days, we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)
In Beyond The Rapids, we’re transported to the country of Ukraine during the Soviet Union. There we meet a modest and remarkable Christian family. The book opens with a brief foreword and is followed closely by an introduction and acknowledgments. The chapters switch from various members of the Brynza family on whom the story chronicles. The first fifteen chapters are told by, Lena, the youngest of the four children. Lena’s experiences are of growing up and on the tribulations they all faced, especially those of her father.
From there, we switch over to the lives of Lena’s two older brothers: Yakov and Viktor. Being bullied and taunted by communists, they both faced the overwhelming temptation to fit in with the people. Being labeled as a Baptist on practically everything made “fitting in” impossible. They weren’t made or meant to simply fit in with the world. God had other plans for them; they would shine for everyone to see.
The last chapters swap back and forth between Lena, Igor (her husband), Veniamin (her youngest brother), and Ruslana (Veniamin’s wife). It was confusing at times when it switched, but that was only because I wasn’t always paying attention. I flipped through the pages rather quickly.
There are no boring areas in any corner of the book. It’s all fascinating! While reading, you will probably find the family’s ways unusual and somewhat strict. In turn, they had visited America and thought us to live in a lukewarm way of life.
I really wish I could’ve met Lena’s father, Alexei Brynza, but reading this book made me feel like I did. I love true stories, and I can say that Beyond The Rapids is one of the best out there. I haven’t read anything this good in a while. It truly inspired and challenged my faith. I highly recommend Beyond The Rapids, but not for anyone too young, though. When the darkness surrounds, the light shines the most…
Nicole Michelin avoids airplanes, motorcycles, and most of all, Japan, where her parents once were missionaries. Something happened in Japan...something that sent Nicole and her father back to America alone...something of which Nicole knows only bits and pieces. But she is content with life in little Mount Olive, North Carolina, with her quirky relatives, tank of lively fish, and plenty of homemade pineapple chutney. Through her online column for the Pretty Fishy Web site, she meets Harrison Michaels, who, much to her dismay, lives in Japan. She attempts to avoid him, but his e-mails tug at her heart. Then Harrison reveals that he knew her as a child in Japan. In fact, he knows more about her childhood than she does...
We're giving away Rain Song to one bookworm! In order to enter, you must leave a comment with your e-mail address (so that we can contact you). US and Canada only, please. This giveaway starts today and ends on March 28th. A winner will be picked randomly (using random.org) and announced on the 29th. We will contact the winner and notify them by their e-mail address. If the winner doesn't respond within a few days, we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)
From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years by Lori A. Moore
3 1/2 stars
From Zero to Christian in Just 35 Years is a relatively small book. In all, there are precisely 96 pages. It’s a biography on the author Lori A Moore. You might think the limited amount of pages would be inefficient for a biography, but Lori managed to successfully pack her 35 years into four chapters. It fits.
I found it fascinating to follow Lori as she fought and struggled to find her calling. Her heart longed to be satisfied, but she would usually find it in all the wrong places. Her family broke apart when she was young and she was often left alone.
She believed maybe there was a God but she didn’t personally know Him. A Christian couple would invite her to church and she often accepted. A neighbor asked her to attend a women’s event and she couldn’t say no. She heard Liz Curtis Higgs speak and was touched by her testimony. Here’s a quote mentioning it: “She explained that she used to live in that pit too and that it was through God’s amazing grace that she was able to break the bondage of that pit.” Soon after that event, Lori accepted Jesus into her life. She escaped the pit that had held her down.
I think Lori’s life is an example of how God can reach anyone and direct their hearts to Him. He can save you from that pit you’re trapped in.
In the opening prologue, Hilary appears to have a perfect life with a handsome husband, a son, and the job of a nurse. In shocking reality, Hilary’s life is far from perfect. Her husband, Erik, reveals he’s had an affair with another woman and he wants a divorce. Hilary is shocked and outraged at the news. Everything is not what it seemed to be.
In the first chapter, it’s six years later. Hilary struggles to be both a single mother and a nurse. She has built up a tough exterior over what happened between her and Eric, but inwardly she can still feel the pain. But she’s not alone in all this; she has God to comfort her, great friends to laugh with, and a son to take of.
Hilary’s son, Seth, is almost a grown man. He’ll soon be leaving high school forever and heading to college. Because of her son’s graduation, Hilary will have no choice but to see Eric and his other wife.
His Other Wife has a theme of forgiveness intertwined into the story. The main character’s pain felt so real that I was suffering right along with her. I knew from the synopsis of the book that her husband gets a divorce, but I was still left stunned when it happened. All of the characters react in a perfectly human-like way through suffering, tragedy, and hope.
It’s not the easiest to muscle through because of the heaviness of it. After the awful circumstances that Hilary and her family had encountered, it was like there was a big dark cloud hanging over the whole story. The end leaves on a happier note, so I was satisfied. In the author’s notes, Bedford says that the story was inspired by Hannah from the Bible.
I can tell Deborah Bedford likes to write stories on real life situations. I like her honesty, and she definitely chose a difficult issue to approach. I would be willing to pick up another book from this author.
Marty Girardier is the author of How Shall We Feed Them?: A Practical Guide to Organizing a Food Pantry. She and her husband live in Virginia with their dog Mocha.
She stopped by our blog to do both and interview and a giveaway with us! Have fun and don't forget to enter. Please, read the rules before leaving a comment. You must leave your e-mail address or we won't be able to contact you.
Welcome, Marty!
I recently read and reviewed your book How Shall We Feed Them? It’s really handy on starting a food pantry. How did you compile all the information together? Was it quite a process?
I am so thankful that God is my friend. Good record keeping along with God by my side, enabled me to remember what took place in early 2005 when we began Cupboards for Christ ministry. The beginning of 2008, when I stepped down as food pantry coordinator, God ask that I begin writing on how He had directed me to organize the food pantry. I do believe God's timing for this was important because it was still very fresh in my mind. Basic book information was completed by fall of 2008 and was turned into the publisher by summer of 2009. The book was released by Winepress books in February 2010.
I like that you added a stop and pray section with each chapter. Seeking God before making a decision has to be the most important key presented in the book. When and how did you know God was leading you into this ministry?
As a young adult I began giving in secret to those in need. Periodically God would ask me to purchase food for a family or a college student or place money anonymously in an envelope to give to someone. As a result of wanting to serve Him and hear His voice, God ask me to take the next step and organize the food pantry at the church I had been attending for over twelve years. The end of 2004 I answered the call and the beginning of 2005 Cupboards for Christ was formed.
In today’s economy, it’s hard for some families to make it through financially. What are the beginning steps for finding and meeting their needs?
Listening to the Holy Spirit is key. Times are hard and families are having to make tough choices. If you or I pray that our ears are open to hear the Holy Spirit, God will bring people into our path that are in need. When the Holy Spirit points out a need that needs to be met, ask Him how He would like for you to meet that need and put it into action.
What is the most rewarding part about running a food pantry?
I have found that the most rewarding part of a food pantry ministry for me is meeting and praying with the food recipients who come by for food. God brings people to our church doors wanting their physical needs to be met but little do they realize that God wants to meet their spiritual needs as well. Helping others lift their eyes up to the Lord giving thanks and praying for their concerns allows them to see that God loves them and cares about every need they have.
Is there any advice you have for people who are interested in opening a food pantry at their church or organization?
1. Seek the Lord first and ask that He take the lead in this ministry.
2. Choose godly volunteers to assist and work as a team.
3. Choose your food storage space wisely.
4. Food pantry guidelines need to be in place before you open your food pantry doors.
5. Be open to the Holy Spirit - His ways, His thoughts and ideas.
Do you plan on writing another book? If so, could you give us any insight into what that next one would be about?
Yes, I am currently writing a food pantry devotional book as an encouragement to those who volunteer in the food pantry minsitry.
There are many great Bible verses and quotes out there, but which of these apply to your journey in life?
Ephesians 6:7 "Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord and not men." I try to apply this verse when I am writing a devotional, serving my husband as his caretaker, taking care of my grandchildren, or when I am serving as a volunteer in the food pantry ministry.
Randomly Fun Questions:
When you’re not busy, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Bake, Hike, walk, ride my bike, write, spend time with my grandchildren, family and friends, watch movies, read and study God's word
Spring is almost upon us! What is your favorite characteristic of this season?
I love the colors of Spring. Watching trees and the flowers bloom is such a miracle that takes place right before your eyes.
We all seem to have collections of one item or another. Is there anything that you like to collect?
Cookbooks - I love to bake and try new recipes.
How can our bookworms best get in contact with you?
Thanks, Marty! We loved doing this interview and giveaway with you. May God bless your wonderful ministry.
Book Giveaway!
Synopsis:
"Brother, are you okay? Do you and your family have food?" a neighbor asked. Immediately, the man began to cry. Wiping away his tears, he said it had been days since they had food in the house and they had two boys. Overwhelmed, the neighbor asked if he would receive food from the church. The answer was yes, so they got in the car and went to the church's food pantry. They were able to load them up! This is one of many stories of meeting the needs of hungry people you will find in this practical book. It provides everything an individual, church, or organization needs to establish or revitalize a food pantry, including specific, step-by-step instructions for: • Building a food pantry team • Choosing a place for the food pantry • Stocking and replenishing the shelves • Creating guidelines for food pantry recipients • Ministering to the food recipients Also included are tear-out materials to help set up a food pantry, including a detailed action plan, check-off lists, sign-up sheets, food recipient information sheets, and contribution sign-up sheets. Today more than ever, churches and Christian organizations need to meet the needs of increasing numbers of hungry people. Organizing a food pantry is a tangible way to do that. If you want to serve God by helping people in need, this inspiring book is for you.
Marty is giving away How Shall We Feed Them? to one bookworm! In order to enter, you must leave a comment with your e-mail address (so that we can contact you). US and Canada only, please. This giveaway starts today and ends on March 8th. A winner will be picked randomly (using random.org) and announced on the 9th. We will contact the winner and notify them by their e-mail address. If the winner doesn't respond within a few days, we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)
The Mystery of Ghost Dancer Ranch by Patrick E. Craig
2 1/2 stars
The Mystery of Ghost Dancer Ranch follows two curious teenagers, Punkin and Boo, on their very first adventure together. They have both been left to spend the summer at their grandparents’ ranch. Thinking it will be boring, the girls are not at all enthused with being separated from friends and family. Little do they know, it will become anything but boring!
The real mystery begins when Boo’s curiosity is sparked from asking her grandma questions. She learns of some intriguing history surrounding the old house. A relative was said to have hidden an Indian by the name of Red Bull and his family from the army. This relative fell in love with Red Bull’s daughter and later married her.
Boo also discovers that the name of the ranch was derived from Indians who danced on the property. This ghost dance was used to call up their dead ancestors.
The Mystery of Ghost Dancer Ranch has a style like Nancy Drew, except there are big differences. The biggest is that it focuses on the supernatural. I don’t know if you can combine the paranormal with sleuthing in a way that perfectly fits.
To break down the book, there are dangerous situations that the kids and grandfather encounter. The two main characters are adorable, and the author did well in portraying them. Crooks with an interest in casinos are mentioned, and the paranormal side of it has demons that haunt the house. Because of the demons and bad guys, it might be scary for some children.
I believe that The Lost Coast and The Hidden Gate complete the rest of this series. I don’t recommend this one for really young readers, so the appropriate age is probably for 10 and up.
Can three adventurous women possibly find romance in 1890s Kansas? Carrie's dreams seem to come true when her runaway buggy is caught by a handsome drifter. Mariah is attracted to Sherman---but not his daughter. Will romance escape her again? Have Joanna's prayers been answered when she meets Clay---even though he's not the marrying type?
Three-In-One Collection (Romancing America Series - Kansas)
We're giving away Prairie Hearts to one bookworm! In order to enter, you must leave a comment with your e-mail address (so that we can contact you). US and Canada only, please. This giveaway starts today and ends on February 21st. A winner will be picked randomly (using random.org) and announced on the 22nd. We will contact the winner and notify them by their e-mail address. If the winner doesn't respond within a few days, we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)
The Case of the Missing Mountain is a fun and engaging way for children to learn Creation Science. The name of the book’s title refers to the events of Mount St. Helens. The pages follow two mystery rangers, Jen and Jack, as they find clues to unravel the mystery of what happened to the mountain.
Your child goes along on this activity-filled journey to pick up facts and solve puzzles. Here’s a list of the activities: crossword puzzles, unscrambling words, code breakers, science experiments, eye spy, mazes, and so much more. There are many photographs and creative designs nestled within the pages. After your child has completed everything, they will find volcano facts, Bible verses, jokes, and more at the end of the book. And there’s a special reward waiting at thenaturetour.com for solving seven of the mysteries, two Rockin’ Ranger Activities, and two Mystery Ranger Missions.
Kim is the perfect author for this, since she has a wealth of information on parks. I recommend The Case of the Missing Mountain for families who homeschool their children and teach Creationism. I was homeschooled, and I would’ve enjoyed something like this to pour through. It could be applied with learning geology, America’s parks, and nature.
Since I don’t have any children of my own, I plan on giving this copy to my nieces – who are homeschooled. I think they’ll both like it. My oldest niece wants to be a park ranger so this will be great for her.
Strumming notes with a melancholy tone on her harp, Marie Buchan feels remarkably the same. She wishes to start afresh; her husband had always planned on visiting Scotland with her. Unfortunately, they never had the chance to pursue it. Ever since his death, Marie has lived the years in a stand-still. Teaching her passion of the harp to eager students even lacks its luster. A sudden thought hits her… to be spontaneous might just be the ingredient to awaken her life. So, with that in mind, Marie makes arrangements to travel. She’s ready to live her dream.
Marie arrives in Scotland with a mix of optimism and apprehension. She doesn’t want to stick out like a tourist but blend in with the people. She’s soon drawn to the countryside and chooses to reside in a quaint village. At first, Marie feels like a stranger but is later welcomed by the friendly town-folk. Exploring the surroundings of the little village, Marie discovers an enchanting ledge overlooking the sea. Fortunately for her, there’s a bench and it’s the perfect setting to play her harp. She belongs here on the shores of Scotland – cloaked by mystery and old traditions.
My Thoughts on Angel Harp:
I was really drawn into the first couple of chapters up until I hit an abrupt wall of ideologies. The characters/author felt like they were rambling in areas. I didn’t find it alluring. I won’t go into specifics, but there’s an idea that didn’t quite match up with scripture.
The scenery is described wonderfully by Michael Phillips. I found myself being transported to the majestic lands of Scotland. The rich culture of the Scottish made me add it to my list of countries to visit. While learning the history of Scotland is necessary to the story, it was excessive and heavy. At times, it seemed like the author was only writing the book for that reason alone. While I had devoured the beginning of Angel Harp, the story later slowed me down. Not the easiest to read.
Michael Phillips’ writing is good. It’s steady and pretty flawless. I’m just amazed that he could write so well from the viewpoint of a woman. I applaud him! I recommend Angel Harp to bookworms who love first person narratives and the history of Scotland. This book stuck to me, and I have no inkling as to why… It will make a nice addition to my library, because of its cover. How many hardcover books are white?
How Shall We Feed Them?: A Practical Guide for Organizing a Food Pantry by Marty Girardier 4 stars
If you’re thinking of starting a food pantry at your church or organization, How Shall We Feed Them? by Marty Girardier is the book for you. It’s a guide that shows the step by step process of buying, storing, and giving food away. Marty opens with a short introduction on the need to feed the hungry. I love that she says, “The most important key is to pray and seek God…”
There are only seven chapters squeezed into this skinny book, but they’re very informative and helpful. Each one starts with a Bible verse and ends with a note from people who’ve benefited from the food pantry. Included in the middle is the text written by the author and a stop and pray section – where you can write out your thoughts.
At the end, you’ll find fifteen pages as Food Pantry Tools. There’s Additional Food Pantry Ideas, Food Pantry Action Plan, Food Pantry Check-Off List, Food Pantry Contribution Sign-Up Sheet, Sample Postcard, Food Pantry Guidelines, and a Food Recipient Information Sheet. You can tear these pages out and photocopy them for use.
I’m confident that the author left nothing out in explaining the way to set everything up. You can really tell she’s passionate about what she does. Taking care of men, women, and children by offering them vital necessities must be so rewarding. Let’s show some kindness today and make sure that no one goes hungry in our community. Pick up How Shall We Feed Them? by Marty Girardier if you feel led to open up a food pantry.
How I captured and boarded the indomitable ship of publishingBy MaryLu Tyndall
I’m currently writing my 11th novel. Wow! Did I say 11? That fact is still as shocking to me as the first time I got “that call” from my agent, telling me that I received a contract on my first novel. Every contract I’ve received after that has been just as exciting. God has been good to me. But, now that I’ve been in the business awhile, I often get asked, how did I get published? What is my advice for writers trying to capture that illusive ship of publishing?
If you’re a writer who’s been at it for quite some time, you’ve probably heard a multitude of answers such as: study the craft, join on online writers group, get in a critique group, attend conferences, enter contests, take classes, generate a platform...etc. So I won’t bore you with all of that again. I will say that all those things are good and valuable and are definitely things you should be doing as an aspiring writer. Having said that, however, I should tell you I did very few of those things before I got my first contract.
You see, if you’re a writer, you sort of know it deep down inside. You don’t write for money or fame or recognition. You write because you cannot do otherwise. It would be like telling an artist not to sculpt or paint or a chef not to cook. I wrote stories as far back as I can remember—way back in grade school. I was always creating adventures in my head and jotting them down here and there. God had made me a writer. I just didn’t know it yet! So, I wandered down the wrong path for many years until God, in His mercy, yanked me back to where I was supposed to be. I tell you all this by way of saying that you’re either a writer or you’re not. If you’re not, you will never achieve the success you’re looking for. You may even get a book published, but after awhile the business will become too hard and your ideas will dry out and you’ll give up. So, first thing, check in with the Creator and make sure you’re on the right path.
By the time I figured that out (slow leaner here), I didn’t know a thing about writing. But I heard quite clearly God telling me to write a story about a Christian Pirate. At first, I thought I was hearing things, but then I decided, what the heck? So I did. I had no prior professional writing experience, wasn’t on any loops, did not belong to a critique group, and had never attended a conference. I did, however, gather all the writing books around me I could and studied the craft of writing. Nevertheless, within three months of completing my first full length manuscript, I received a contract for it, plus three more books. To this day, many people tell me that first book of mine is their favorite. Lately, I’ve been pondering why, especially when I wrote that story with no plot, no preconceived set of rules, and no expectations of it being published. I wrote the story that was burning on my heart. The one that I had to tell or I would explode. And I had a blast doing it.
So what? You say. What does that mean to me? Well, I’ll tell you. After 11 books, I’ve really been trying to get back to the way I felt when I wrote that first novel. The combination of all the magical elements that made it not only get published but get nominated for a Christy award. And here’s what I remember I did:
1. Study the craft. Learn all the rules. And then when you start writing, forget about them! 2. Read read read. Read great literature and fiction in your spare time. As much as you can. Read Best sellers in your genre. You’d be surprised how much of a positive impact reading has on your writing 3. Choose a story that makes you excited. That burns in your heart, yearning to be set free. If you don’t, your book will come out bland. 4. Create deep and interesting characters with flaws and real goals, heartaches and needs. 5. Don’t plot. Yes, you heard me. Just start with a situation, turn off your left brain, and go from there!
If you’re doing a romance, create a beginning situation for both hero and heroine. Such as in my first book, The Redemption, the situation for the heroine: Young noblewoman runs away from abusive uncle in England to the Caribbean in search of her long, lost father, hoping he will give her the love she’s never had. Hero: Redeemed pirate turned privateer who sails Caribbean in search of a vile pirate, his arch-enemy, with the intent on capturing him and bringing him to justice, rescues maiden from deserted island only to find the father she is searching for is the same man.
So, now, you have a great situation filled with all kinds of possibilities and incredible tension. You’ve created deep characters. Now, just sit down, flex those fingers, and write. Turn on music, light candles, whatever gets you into your alternate world. Don’t worry about spelling, grammar, historic details you need to look up later. Just mark them and move on. This is how I wrote The Redemption. If it worked for me, perhaps it will work for you too!
You can pre-order MaryLu Tyndall's newest book from the Surrender to Destiny Series (releasing the first of March!). And be sure to pick up Surrender the Heart before reading this second installment.
Find MaryLu on her website and blog. Have a Facebook account? Like her fan page or add her as a friend. I'm sure she'd love to connect with you!
Legendary Space Pilgrims by Grace Bridges. 2 1/2 stars
On planet Monday, life is monotonous – gray is the color that invades the skies, uniforms, and the lives of every worker that calls it home. Mario is a worker, a farmer in fact. He is expected to wake up at a specific time, work the fields, eat, and then sleep. He repeats the exact same routine day by day. He can’t stray from normal protocols or let his emotions get out of hand. Mario must wear an emo-reader on his neck to discourage any feelings. If the reader rises up to 80%, transport tubes take him to be mindwiped and brought back never to remember anything. Such is the life on planet Monday.
Little does Mario know, his life is about to get brighter. His otherwise normal day is shaken up when he hears the Voice. Mario receives many Words spoken by the Voice. These mysterious Words bring him comfort, so he repeats them over and over again – until they’ve become ingrained in his memory. He also notices that they somehow keep the emo-reader from beeping. He cannot keep the Words to himself and so he shares them with his friend, Caitlin. She’s unsure of the whole thing but reluctantly starts saying them.
The Voice issues certain commands to Mario and Caitlin. They must escape from planet Monday and venture forth into the unknown. Mario trusts the Voice, so they both follow His plans. He and Caitlin will be guided to wherever they’re supposed to go, but where will the Voice take them and what will they find there?
My Thoughts on Legendary Space Pilgrims:
Legendary Space Pilgrims is my first sci-fi book that’s Christian themed. I am a fan of the genre, so I was interested in giving it a try. The tale follows Mario and Caitlin as they go on a journey from planet Monday to the wide frontiers of space. On this journey, they meet many challenges and temptations. It reminded me of Pilgrims Progress in the sense of it being an allegory.
While reading through the book, I hit a suggestive scene or two. This was the main reason why I gave it a lower rating. I did enjoy the visual treats of the strange worlds described by the author. It's fun to experience odd times and places. But the best part was probably the Voice that leads Mario and Caitlin. I love that He calls them forth to follow Him. When I reached the last chapters, I noticed the story wasn't wrapping up. That's because it continues into another book by the name of Independence Monday - not yet released.
Being introduced to a new genre is always exhilarating, and I honestly didn’t know there were Christian sci-fi books. Legendary Space Pilgrims may not have been my favorite, but I am definitely willing to read more of these.
