"Mother Daughter Duet" by Cheri Fuller & "Dancing With My Father" by Sally Clarkson

"Mother Daughter Duet" by Cheri Fuller is a nice little book for mothers with older daughters. It guides them through why it is often so hard for mothers and daughters to get along as time goes on. From letting go to forgiveness to encouragement and more, this book gives firsthand advice to mothers. There are even personal stories from the authors inserted, as well as perspectives from adult daughters themselves. The book occasionally relies on Biblical teachings, referring to verses while not actually quoting them. This manual is great and sheds some real light on what most women think of as "walking on eggshells." With candid truth and speech, this book is exactly what the title claims it to be.

"Dancing With My Father" by Sally Clarkson is about learning to trust in God like a child. While it is geared more towards adult female readers, male readers will find reassurance in the overall message. Clarkson goes over her personal accounts of failure, prayer, desperation, and salvation. She frequently quotes Scripture, as well as other famous quotes. Each chapter concludes with a series of questions to the reader with space to write responses. There is also a prayer that readers can pray that relates to the theme of each chapter. Clarkson's stories are those pertinent to a middle aged mother, so not everyone will find them riveting. However, her reliance on God and perseverance in faith is admirable. This book is nice for a rainy day when one has nothing to do.

These books were provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

"Isaac Newton" by Mitch Stokes

"Isaac Newton" by Mitch Stokes is part of the Christian Encounters series. It aims to explore the lives of grandiosely brilliant and influential Christians. Written in prose form, this book reads like a mix between a novel and a biography; it feel like historical fiction but is far too accurate to be categorized as such. Stokes writes of Newton's life, his mathematics, his disputes with other great minds, and his eccentricism. While it is mentioned every here and there that Newton saw knowledge as a form of worship and believed that more in God with every discovery he made, religion is not as dominant in this book as the title of this series would imply. It is noted that Newton did not fully accept the Anglican view of Trinitarianism, but he was an avid theologian and believed in Jesus as God. Many times, it is stated that Newton put the majority of his time into Biblical study, but the particulars of these are omitted. Also, for those familiar with mathematical physics, some parts of this book will feel slow and not as mathematically described as they could be. Despite these facts, readers will enjoy this book and, in the end, realize that if someone as ingenious as Newton chose Jesus as his Savior, they should do likewise.

http://brb.thomasnelson.com/reviews/blogger/2503

"Quick and Easy Tips to Lose Weight" by Georgina Salgado Chavez, ND, LAc, Ht

"Quick and Easy Tips to Lose Weight" by Georgina Salgado Chavez, ND, LAc, Ht is exactly what it claims to be--quick. Under sixty pages, this book is as brief as it gets. It starts out by introducing some terrifying facts about diseases correlated to obesity. It then briefly talks about some food additive and types to avoid for good reason. After listing some sources of weight gain, the author lists off forty-nine "tips" for weight loss. These are general and not specific to specific medical needs / body shapes / ages. They are very broad and relate to overall nutrition and taking care of oneself. Most are common sense, and some are even risque that make this book not suitable for younger readers (promoting relations as a calorie burner--yuck!). This book is ideal for the uneducated populus who know nothing of the basics of healthy living, but this book alone will most likely not lead one towards a weight loss plan that is unique to them.

"Make That a Table For Seven" by Angie and Storm Davis

"Make That a Table For Seven: A Grizzly Family Story (Ferbie and Peppie Find a Home)" by Angie and Storm Davis is a cute children's book. It is about two grizzly bears who are homeless. The older brother tries to find a better life for his sister, which involves him asking a well-off family if she can stay with them. The family agrees and even invites the brother to stay. He declines but takes up the offer later in the book. In the end--as predicted--there is one big happy family with the biological and adopted children. The pictures in this book are quite cartoonish and carefully made. This book is great for children that want to learn about adoption.

"Out with the In Crowd" by Stephanie Morrill"Out with the In Crowd" by Stephanie Morrill

"Out with the In Crowd" by Stephanie Morrill is a girly teen Christian book. It follows Skylar, a high school senior, as she is faced with incredible decisions in life. Her sister is pregnant with a baby whose father wants nothing to do with her. Her boyfriend is flirting with his ex-girlfriend. Her parents are going through a separation. The list of problems goes on. Also, Skylar has some questions of identity as she leaves behind her partying ways to become a woman of Christian morals. The book is in a series, but readers do not feel lost. After the first couple of chapters, readers feel they know the characters and what they did in previous books. At times, Skylar seems to be whining, but who can blame her? The book consists of mostly dialog and some personal thoughts (as well as dreams) from Skylar. Teen girls may not necessarily identify with all of Skylar's situations, but they will feel compelled to learn what happens to this "real" Christian student.

“Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

"Ponga Boy" by Phil Lebherz and Philip Reed

"Ponga Boy" by Phil Lebherz and Philip Reed boasts of being "The Greatest Soccer Story Ever Told!" on the cover. It is far from perfect, but the story is quite riveting. It is about a boy from Mexico that is recruited to play at a California University on full scholarship. Full of acrobatics and perfect balance, the boy is known across his small town for his feats that seem to defy gravity. Supplementary characters have a real feel and seem to have real personality, too. The story begins when the boy is ten and progresses quickly to his first college experience. The culture of Mexico is vivid and rustic, while the culture of America is described as luxurious yet sinful. The boy plays soccer and is faced with some opposition from his new teammates. He learns about himself and eventually earns respect. There is also some internal conflict as the son of a fisherman grapples with what his future may hold away from Mexico. When he comes to America, he leaves behind his sweetheart from Mexico to be seduced by a Californian vixen. The romance in the book is not graphic but still not appropriate for young readers. What is interesting is this book sets forth the idea that men--not only women--can be subject to having drugs slipped into their drinks and be taken advantage of sexually. A moving part in the book is when the boy returns home to find his Mexican sweetheart clad in makeup and tight "American" clothes in an effort to keep the boy's heart. He then tells her to go back to her original look and that he likes her just as she is. He ends up back with his Mexican sweetheart, but readers are a bit judgemental when he does not confront her about his previous deeds of infidelity. This book reads like a movie and the sparse typos are like watching a film and seeing a stagehand every so often in the background--it is a bit irritating but people keep watching anyway. The morals of this book are sincere as the boy makes up his mind in the end and does what he knows is right.

"Beautiful Things Happen When a Woman Trusts God" by Sheila Walsh

"Beautiful Things Happen When a Woman Trusts God" by Sheila Walsh is a painstakingly beautiful book. It starts out with Walsh's personal problems with trusting God. With brutal honesty, she reveals how she went in a psychiatric ward when her seemingly perfect life came crashing down around her. There aren't as many details of the ward and what went on inside, so readers are left wanting more. Also, as the book progresses, Walsh's life is talked about less and less and the Bible is talked about more and more. Walsh uses men and women of the Bible to illustrate how trusting God is necessary and what happens when they choose to do so or turn their back on God. What's great about this book is that it focuses on the Old Testament greatly. Many devotional books don't do this. So, it is nice to remember some "old school" stories and remember how important they are in daily life. This book is riddled with some grammar errors and typos, but the overall message will touch readers and keep them turning the pages.

http://brb.thomasnelson.com/reviews/blogger/2503

"Hear No Evil" by Matthew Paul Turner

"Hear No Evil: My Story of Innocence, Music, and the Holy Ghost" by Matthew Paul Turner is unique in every sense of the word. Growing up as a Fundamentalist Southern Baptist, Turner lives very strictly. His family's interpretation of God revolves around being ashamed of sin and ignoring popular culture. However, most of the book focuses on the constraints on music. Besides thinking that most secular music is evil, it is interesting to know that Turner's congregation also frowned upon Christian musicians that did not fit their cookie-cutter mold. Musicians that did not mention Jesus enough in their songs or used rock-based beats were seen as malevolent. The humor with which Turner tells his story keeps the reader entertained. Turner leads readers through his life, his career, his journey with God, and his reconciliation with music. Readers are hooked on Turner's curt speech in the beginning of the book. "At my church whenever someone capable of emotional honesty became a member, it created a situation similar to my father's lectures about a new puppy: 'As long as it never poops on the carpet, I'll let it be an 'inside dog.' Anyone was welcome to join us for worship on Sundays, as long as they never emotionally pooped on the carpet" (Turner, 8).

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Learn more about or purchase these books at RandomHouse.com:
http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9781400074723

"Surviving Your Doctors" by Richard S. Klein, M.D.

"Surviving Your Doctors: Why the Medical System is Dangerous to Your Health and How to Get Through it Alive" by Richard S. Klein, M.D. is a scarily candid book. Written by a doctor himself, Klein tells it like it is. Everything from taking control of one's one health, asking questions, researching, and just taking over the steering wheel in the car that is medical care. Klein discusses both mental and physical health, small infirmities and diseases, cancers, and prescription drugs. Best of all, Klein uses easy to understand language and does into great depth to explain concepts and terms that the reader may not be familiar with. Also, the way this book is written, a reader does not feel like they have to be a senior citizen. The health issues related--as well as the overall tone of the book--will make readers of all ages feel comfortable. Readers will learn much from this book and take charge in their life as a side effect (pun intended). Also, there is an extensive set of bibliographic notes in the back, along with an index for easy reference. There is even a list of resources with helpful websites included. Overall, this book is well written and does its job of informing all readers of the medical system and flaws therein.

"Anything But Normal" by Melody Carlson

"Anything But Normal" by Melody Carlson is a controversial read. It follows the story of Sophie, a senior in high school. She is on the honor roll, has risen to prestigious ranks in her school newspaper, contributes to yearbook, is Christian, and--I almost forgot--pregnant. Confused and not sure what to do, Sophie tries to deny her situation. Readers follow her journey as her tummy continues to get bigger and bigger. They are taken into her soul, as she makes decisions and faces life as a pregnant teen. One would think this book would be tiredly predictable. After all, a Christian prima donna is pregnant; she'll probably just give the kid up for adoption, say some penance, and be done with it. However, Carlson takes us on a wild ride as Sophie makes decisions most unexpectedly, even facing some situations that leave readers befuddled. Additionally, the drama between Sophie, her friends, her parents, her pastor, and her child's father add to the drama. At one point in the book, Sophie does the unthinkable and learns what being a true Christian is all about--undeserved grace. This book does not go into sexually explicit detail, but abortion, date rape, unplanned parenthood, and high school pregnancy centers are touched upon. This book is mentally, spiritually, and emotionally gripping.

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

"Deadlock" by Al and Jo Lacy

"Deadlock" by Al and Jo Lacy is the second installment of the "Return of the Stranger" series. It follows a famous cowboy lawman known for his quick gun skills. This man is called The Stranger and synonymously converts his criminals to Christianity. In the book, The Stranger (John) works with his partner Whip (in book one, John captured Whip, converted him, and turned him into a lawman after he was released from prison). Together, John, Whip, and Whip's trained wolf chase after bandits. John and Whip are married, and John has children. The book progresses with western mannerisms of the nineteenth century and pleasantries that will make readers smile. The true suspense that is described on the back cover (John's daughter being kidnapped) does not happen until the last forty pages or so. Prior to that, the reader is caught up in the setting and characters so they will be informed of events if they did not read book one. Still, they will not be bored if they have read book one. The interactions between the husbands and wives in this book are sweet and not at all graphic. The Christian aspect is Baptist and nice with Biblical quotations. Readers who appreciate Christian westerns will fall in love with this book and eagerly await book three.

"Revolve 2010"

"Revolve 2010: The Complete New Testament" is a great Biblezine for girls. Basically what that is a the Bible in the form of a magazine. The text is translated into easy to understand terms, and there are ever modern day colloquialisms inserted. There are parts on the top of the page where Biblical adages are written in "texting" format. Additionally, there are quizzes, advice columns, advice from guys, fashion tips, ecological tips, and more. The pages themselves are glossy, colorful, and quite pretty. There are even are few famous Christian interviews and free downloads. This book is a great way to make the Bible appear more to girls. It is an overall great book. The words of the Lord are inscribed and there are plenty of asides and footnotes to make the reader understand and contemplate said Words. Every girl should own one of these. It will make spreading the Gospel to other non-Christian girls easier and "cooler." Hands down, this book is fantastic!

http://brb.thomasnelson.com/reviews/blogger/2503

"Angels" by Dr. David Jeremiah

"Angels: Who They Are and How They Help...What the Bible Reveals" by Dr. David Jeremiah is a delightfully candid look at angels from a sincerely Biblical perspective. In the book, the author goes into depth to address several questions about angels, some of which readers would never even have thought to pose. He covers the hierarchy and terminology of angels from the Bible, as well as what it means when the “angel of the Lord” is written of. The famous angels Gabriel and Michael are covered, as well as many anonymous angels throughout the Bible. Angels’ temperament, physique, appearance, and purpose are elucidated. What’s wonderful about this book is that it is brutally honest. It condones the notion of Valentine’s Day angels and guardian angels as merely civilization’s fancy. Rather, the author explains how angels are created by God--not at all equal with God any more than a caterpillar is (example used in the book)--and that they exist to serve God. So, it makes no sense [and is even a bit heretical] for people to pray to angels or seek them out over God. Additionally, the book touches upon fallen angels, noting how God is more powerful then them and is in control always. Much relevant Scripture is quoted, and none of it seems to be twisted. Also, many famous theologians are quoted, along with Calvin (still, the book is very Biblical and can be enjoyed by all [denominations]). Professionally, notes are included, along with an index and list of where angels appear in relation to the Bible. Amusingly, the author also occasionally employs an imaginary / literary angel guide in his book to take readers throughout both Old and New Testament history to account for angels in the Bible.

http://www.randomhouse.com/

http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9781601422699&ref=externallink_mlt_Angels_sec_1208_01

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

"The Adventures of PJ and Split Pea" by S.D. Moore

"The Adventures of PJ and Split Pea (Vol. 1): Fine Feathered Friends" by S.D. Moore and illustrated by Bobbi Switzer is a cute children's book. The protagonist is a short singing boy by the name of PJ. He is ridiculed in school for his small stature. One day, he seeks a pet. After much contemplation in the pet store, PJ adopts an injured parrot. Many of the bird's wings were lost in a severe storm. Together, the parrot confesses his insecurities to PJ. The boy tries to fit the bird in vain. In the end, both learn that they are perfect as they are--imperfections and all. The morals in this book are great, and the illustrations are fantastic. The only imperfections in this children's book is the occasional syntax error and some pages that are a bit of text on top and just white space on the bottom.

"Jenna’s Cowboy" by Sharon Gillenwater

"Jenna’s Cowboy" by Sharon Gillenwater is a romance novel of sorts. It centers around a divorced woman, her child, and an old friend. Characteristic of most romance novels, Nate (the old friend) comes back to her town more dashing than when he left, with muscles to boot. Jenna herself is also described as good looking and athletic. Anyway, the story is quite predictable. Judging from the title, the reader knows that Jenna and Nate will end up together. Since this is published from Revell--a predominantly Christian publishing company--the reader also knows this entails matrimony of some sort. There is little romance in the book that is physical--a plus for Christian readers looking to avoid raunchy / trashy romance novels. There is some mention of kissing and affection, but there is nothing beyond that to cause readers to be reviled. Although Gillenwater does write about Jenna's family, the majority of the book revolves around Jenna and Nate, with events hosting her child in the background. So, readers can read some of this book, put it down, pick it up a week later, and not miss a beat. What makes this romance novel different from others is that the male is a war veteran from Iraq. Post-traumatic-stress-disorder is covered heavily. Descriptions of the Texas surroundings and rural lifestyle are included, too. As said before, this book is tiredly predictable. However, Gillenwater works her magic to make the reader keep turning those pages in placid entertainment.

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

"50 Ways to Feel Great Today" by David Biebel DMin, James Dill MD & Bobbie Dill RN

"50 Ways to Feel Great Today: Keys to Beating Stress, Worry and the Blues" by David Biebel DMin, James Dill MD and Bobbie Dill RN is a straightforward book for those looking to make variety truly their spice of life. Each chapter gives a quick headline of an action, followed by a famously relevant quote and the description itself. These include various anecdotes from all three authors, in addition to stories from others. Scientific claims are made that are easy to understand and that seemingly common sense. Still, the authors include an in depth section of notes in the back. This book is religious at times, quoting scripture and relating to God, but it is not as religious as some readers may like (such occurrences are widely interspersed and not covered throughout). Also, due to there being three authors, sometimes the He is capitalized when relating to God, and sometimes the he is not. All in all, the fifty ways to feel great are geared towards all, but there are references that imply the reader may be a parent or grandparent. The list of actions are not entirely unique, yet they come together in a most easygoing manner, as to make readers appreciative of such an organized book that gives them pointers for "feeling great."

Available December 2009 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

"A Million Miles in a Thousand Years" by Donald Miller

"A Million Miles in a Thousand Years" by Donald Miller has an interesting back story. One of Miller's memoirs ("Blue Like Jazz") sold many copies, and he was approached by filmmakers to turn the book into a movie. After much back-and-forth discussion, they made it clear that he would have to fabricate and enhance most of his book to make the memoir-turned-movie sell and appeal to the average person. Miller counteracts them and writes about how he quizzically prodded them to elucidate. In the book, many anecdotes and stories are thrust at the reader. Some are random, some hold meaning, and some just seem to prove to the filmmakers that God's life we are granted isn't necessarily boring. The stories are about Miller, his friends, and distant acquaintances. Some stories involve him, others don't. Maybe one day Miller will have a movie, but, as of now, that isn't likely. Miller doesn't want to change his life. There is talk of God in this book but not as much as one would expect from a book published under a predominantly Christian market. Readers will be entertained with this book and lift an eyebrow while smirking as they turn each page.

http://brb.thomasnelson.com/reviews/blogger/2503

"The Choice" Blog Tour

"The Choice" by Suzanne Woods Fisher is a riveting book. Set in the Amish world, readers take the avid descriptions and become ensconced in them. There is just enough detail to be immersed in the setting but not so much as to bore the reader. The protagonist, Carrie, is a young woman; her exact age is never given, perhaps so a wider audience of women may relate to her. She loves a fellow Amish man, and they have plans to marry. However, when he makes a sudden and unexpected decision, everything changes. Carrie then finds love elsewhere, if that is what one would call it. The reader learns whether or not Carrie loves her new mate in step with Carrie as she finds out for herself. There are many twists and turns in the book that readers would not think that Fisher would dare do--let alone twice. The book starts out a bit slow, but the drama kicks into high gear after the first twenty pages or so. It is akin to someone sitting down to watch the middle of a soap opera with no prior knowledge--it goes slowly because personas are not known--but that feeling subsides. Readers may not be happy with all the decisions Fisher makes with regards to the characters and their choices, but they would have to agree that the book is entertaining nonetheless. There are only a few major events in the book that are drawn out for the reader to make connects, so it is difficult to discuss more plot without giving away the story.

Available January 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

You can find Suzanne on-line at http://www.suzannewoodsfisher.com/ or Facebook or Twitter (suzannewfisher). She loves to hear from readers and tries to get back to each one. Below is an interview with her:

Amish Fiction is a "hot genre" right now in the Christian book industry. The Wall Street Journal recently ran a front-page article that cited its market share as high as 14%. Why do you think people are so intrigued by the Amish?
There’s a direct correlation between how complicated our lives are—with all kinds of time-saving technology that oddly consumes time—and peoples’ longing for a simpler life. It seems as if people are hungry for margin in their lives—for leisure time, for fewer demands, for quiet, for peace. I’m not sure life ever has been simple, but there’s a perception that a rural, less materialistic life is more manageable. And who better personifies the simple life than the Amish?

Not many authors write both fiction and non-fiction. In fact, most authors find "their voice" and stick with it. Why is that different for you?
Having started as a magazine writer, I assumed I was a non-fiction writer. As I ventured into fiction, I wondered why I had limited myself! My non-fiction writing has improved because of writing fiction—I’ve learned to jazz it up. And my fiction writing has an edge because I have research skills to give it credibility. I really think writers should be open to stretching their vocal chords!

You started your writing career as a free lancer for magazines. Your first book was published with a small press. Are you glad you "started small?"
Very, very glad. It was a small pond to learn in, make mistakes, gain important skills like public speaking or book promotion. I can’t say enough about the benefits of starting small.
I learned two important principles:
1) Take your writing very seriously. Set goals, find a writers’ group, attend conferences, learn from others.
2) At the same time, don’t take yourself too seriously. Get a tough hide. Persevere. Anticipate a few battle scars. Laugh at your mistakes. Enjoy this writing gig!

How do you get your ideas for writing?
It takes a while to get a story into focus, but I start with the main “footprint” and fill in as I go. It really is strange how a story starts to take on a life of its own.

What has God taught you through writing?
Four words: “Hangeth Thou In There.”

Tell us about "The Waiting", Book 2 in the "Lancaster County Secrets." (To release on October 1, 2010.)
The second in this series takes place in the same town of Stoney Ridge, Pennsylvania, but in a different time period—during the 1960s. Jorie King is in love with Ben Zook—a fellow who has a tendency toward “fence jumping” and is currently serving in Vietnam as a Conscientious Objector. Everyone assumes Jorie will marry Ben when he returns, but life in Stoney Ridge takes a few unexpected twists and turns.

Why did you kill a character just as the readers were growing attached to that character?
I know! I know it was hard to see that character go (can't say too much...don't want to reveal the plot!). In my own life, there have been some unexpected, untimely deaths of friends or family members. The Amish believe that when death comes, a life is complete. Doesn't make it easy to accept the loss, but it does help to remember that God holds our lives in his hands. So I guess that was the reason...but I am very pleased that readers felt "attached" to that character. That is not an easy thing to do! Even if it means they feel grief. And if it makes you feel better, I grieved for that character. So did the editor! But alas...that individual's book life was complete.

Did you intentionally not mention Carrie's age so more female readers could identify with her?
Carrie is around age twenty-ish...that wasn't meant to be omitted as much as assumed. Young enough for teenagers to relate to her, but starting to move into young adulthood. Maybe...like so many at that age...it came a little before Carrie was ready for it.

"101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle" by Dawn Del Russo

"101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle: A CHEEKY POCKET-SIZED BOOK WITH TIDBITS OF ADVICE FOR A GLAMOROUS LIFESTYLE" by Dawn Del Russo is a quick read that is exactly what the cover describes it to be. There are 101 tips, each with its own girly page that pops. There is a title, a picture (illustrated by Barbara Ann Scarrillo), and an adage to boot. There are some quick fashion pointers that relate to must-have accessories, but this isn't a fashion book that tells women how to dress for their body and complexion. Rather, there are pointers for taking care of one's skin and staying in shape. Some hints are for the exterior, and some are for mental / emotional development. For example, tips range from taking a walk to buying a white button down shirt to writing in a journal to taking vitamins and more. The 101 glam tips make sense and come together well. They serve more as reminders than explicit directions since very few words are on each page. Still, readers get the gist. The only thing some conservative readers may not like is the makeup push and the "wear sexy lingerie" tip. Other than those, this book is rather posh. It even arrived in the mail wrapped fastidiously in hot pink tissue paper!

"The Gospel According to Lost" by Sean Seay

"The Gospel According to Lost" by Sean Seay is a riveting read. It dives deep into the jungle that is Lost and does not even come up for a breather. The book briefly explains the concept of the show, its philosophical heritage, and its cultural repercussions. Subsequently, chapters are devoted to characters and their psyches, with the occasional chapter being host to two characters when they are a couple. Not all the personas from Lost are covered, but the main ones plus a few secondary roles are elucidated. Also, there is a full set of glossy pages with paintings of said characters in the middle, as well as black and white photos of these alongside their respective chapters. Seay refers to Scripture when necessary and is very simplistic in his explanations of such. While viewers of lost may be a bit partial towards this book, others will enjoy the ride as they find out what all the fuss is about whilst gaining a Christian perspective on it.

http://brb.thomasnelson.com/reviews/blogger/2503