"A Heart's Rebellion" by Ruth Axtell

Within just the first few pages, I got a very Pride and Prejudice impression.  Set in the 1800's in England, this book follows Jessamine and her friend Megan through their London season.  For those that don't know, a season is a time where young single ladies go about town and attend balls.  They do this in hopes of meeting eligible bachelors and finding a husband.  This may seem very old-fashioned and even archaic.  However, the way Axtell writes her story, we do not see any of the characters as weak or "less-than."  Instead, we get inside the minds and hearts of two young women who just want to be loved.  We meet the suitors through their eyes.  We learn who is good and who is bad...sometimes too late.  This book also covers topics such as provocative dress, flirting, being drugged, being attacked, and more.  It will teach young women a lot about life, but I do not recommend it to very young readers.  Whether in 1800 or 2000, the rules of life and love have not changed much as the human is still human throughout the years.  

"Daughters in Danger" by Elayne Bennett

Exceptionally written, this book chronicles the severe pressure facing girls and young women in our day and age.  Several case-studies are given of naïve ladies who were severely beaten or lost their lives or who were kidnapped.  There are even stories of dating-gone-wrong and how psychology comes into play.  Alcoholism, drug-use, sororities, fraternities, and social media are also analyzed in depth.  Violence from men is studied, as is the skewed view of gender roles in the media.  The author argues that women are all too often given conflicting messages.  They are told they have to act a certain way, dress a certain way, do their hair a certain way, earn a certain salary, have a certain job, and so on.  Yet, rarely are they told how to be safe.  Likewise, the author touches upon the lack of manhood in modern America.  She discusses how many young men lack career-focus and stay at home.  She compares the 1950s to the 2000s and notes the similarities and differences, as well as crimes-against-women statistics.  The reader also learns how schools are helping and hurting youngsters today and how even the most secular schools have philosophical agendas.  This book did have some Catholic undertones in it, but I did not feel they were forced or that the author was coming off as preachy.  Overall, this book was very interesting and was a much needed eye-opening read.

“What I Wish My Christian Friends Knew About Judaism” by Robert Schoen

Well written and brutally honest, this book gives a good introduction into basic Judaism for readers of all backgrounds.  Despite the catchy title, I would argue that Christians aren’t the only ones who could learn from this book.  The author takes us back into both Biblical times and modern synagogues.  We read about the difference between a rabbi and a cantor, what “observance” is, and what the various denominations within Judaism are.  The Sabbath and High Holidays are discussed in detail.  Religious life events such as weddings, bar / bat mitzvahs and funerals are included.  The modern state of Israel, including historic events in Israel’s history, is reviewed.  There is even a pronunciation guide and suggested reading list in the back of the book.  Above all, what I enjoyed most about this book was that it promoted peace and understanding amongst various people groups.         



“Code Name: Dodger” by Eric Auxier

Meet Justice who likes to be called Justin.  He’s a Brooklyn orphan living out his teenage years searching for meaning.  With a solid group of friends and an even more solid skateboard, days just seem to fly by for Justin.  However, one day, all of that changes.  After a run-in with some suspicious characters, Justin is mysteriously sent away from the orphanage.  He isn’t sent to juvie as he fears—read the book to find out about Justin’s shenanigans—but is rather sent with a mysterious man for a psychological experiment.  The plot gets even more interesting when the reader realizes Justin is involved in the CIA and is helping to take down his father’s killer.  Emotions flare as Justin snoops around in CIA files he isn’t supposed to see and makes a serious father-son connection with his CIA guardian.  This book is fast-paced with plenty of adventurous action.  While there are some fight scenes, they are not too graphic or scary for the average reader to tolerate.  In terms of romance, Justin is a great role model for young men.  He is not a womanizer, and he treats the young women he is attracted to with respect and care.  When it comes to drugs and gangs, Justin is also a good influence because he avoid those things he deems “stupid.”  There are a few cuss words in this book, but it is not overdone; and there are no f-bombs.  In terms of font, it is a nice size.  It’s big enough to not strain the eyes but not so big as to feel like a book for the visually-impaired; it’s just right.  Also, a portion of this book’s sales goes towards charities for orphans, which is nice.   

"In the Shadow of Jezebel" by Mesu Andrews

What's most interesting about this book is that it's not just another story chronicling the life of Jezebel.  Rather, it's a story of those whom Jezebel influences and affects during her life.  We meet Athaliah and her daughter (not blood-related) Jehosheba.  As power struggles shift and slide for who is king and who is queen, political intrigues intensifies.  Then factor in the conflict of which God will emerge the strongest in an epic Israeli-pagan duel of spiritual proportions.  Athaliah and Jehosheba and Jezebel worship Baal.  In an effort to show diplomacy between the pagans and the Jews, Jezebel proposes that Sheba marries the Jewish Temple high priest.  As the marriages progresses, Sheba learns to love and wrestles between which divinity she will devote herself to.  Other characters enter the story, and their personal lives emerge as well.  I will not divulge those details but will say they add an extra dimension of interest to the story.  Helpful in this book is a list of character names and descriptions, a family tree diagram of important characters, and a historical note in the back for where the basis of the story came from.  All I can say is this: prepare for drama.

"Living Gluten and Dairy-Free with French Gourmet Food: A Practical Guide" by Chef Alain Braux

If you have any issues with gluten or dairy, this book is for you.  If you are trying to cut back on carbs, this book is for you.  If you get an upset tummy after dairy products, this book is for you.  Now, you won't start diving into recipes as soon as you open this book.  Rather, you will first gain a physical and nutritional understanding of your body's digestive system.  You will begin to comprehend where stomach issues come from, why they affect certain people, and much more.  Even though the author has advanced education in nutritional science, I like how he includes personal testimonies.  We read letters from people explaining their abdominal issues, their diet, their lifestyles, their improvements, and more.  This makes the book much more personal.  Plus, you will feel better knowing you're not the only one with food issues.  Chef Alain shows you that you are just one of the many people with these concerns.  Autism and mental issues also are discussed in this book, with a detailed Appendix for contacting relevant societies.  After the reader has had a thorough schooling on food education, they get a detailed list of what Chef Alain recommends they stock up in their kitchen.  They also get lists of ingredients to watch out for.  This is nice since not everybody knows what all the "big words" on food labels mean.  Here, you will understand some of these "big words" and know which ones to avoid.  In terms of recipes, you have plenty to choose from.  From breads to pastries to side dishes to soups to salads to meat to fish and more, you will have enough recipes to keep your mind busy and your palate engaged.  While I won't go through all of the recipes in this book, I will say some of my favorites were the Coconut Pots, the Quinoa Cookies, and the Zucchini Soup.  Also, I can say that the recipes are very easy to "adapt."  If you want to use say Safflower oil instead of the recommend olive oil, the recipe turns out fine.  If you want to swap out Oregano for Basil, the recipe turns out fine.   

"The Long Awakening: A Memoir" by Lindsey O'Connor

This book is the story of a woman who went into a coma shortly after birthing her fifth child.  She was out for close to two months, and this is her story.  While the reader obviously knows that the author is fine and alive and well (how could she not be if she were writing the memoir?), the bulk of the book is depressing.  Yes, there is talk of hope, redemption, answered prayers, friendship, help from strangers, compassion, and other great things.  However, a good chunk of the book talks about tears, hospitals, diagnoses, despair, emotional trauma, confusion, suffering, and other depressing topics.  This book does not focus on dreams the author had in her coma or any sort of extravagant near-death-experience.  Rather, it is a collection of the author's memories, her husband's and children's reactions, and thoughtfully events she recalls in between consciousness.  I applaud the author for living through such an ordeal, but I warn readers that this is not a book you want to read before going to bed.

"A Dad's Prayer for His Daughter" by Rob and Joanna Teigen

This book is full of the prayers and well-wishes of a father for his daughter.  There are Bible verses quoted from both the Old and New Testament as the authors share their encouragement with readers.  Sections on happiness, joy, depression, school, fitting in, clothes, boyfriends, peer pressure, eating disorders, addictions, and more are covered.  Parts of the book read like a letter where the father speaks about what he wishes for his daughter.  Interspersed throughout the book are prayers and letters from other fathers (mostly pastors) for their daughters.  Obviously, this book has religious undertones.  One does not need to necessarily agree with all of them to enjoy this book as it is intended to help fathers pray for (and hence think about) good things for their daughter.



“Firstborn” by Lorie Ann Grover

Engrossing and fast-paced, this book will be sure to hold your attention.  Whether it is in the future or in another dimension, the reader is thrust into an unusual world of oppression.  Firstborn females are either left for dead or forced to live life as males (“declared” as the book calls it).  Tiadone is one of those declared males.  She lives her whole life with an amulet on her hip.  It holds her father’s hair and a desert cat’s heart in it.  This—she is told—gives her masculine power to overcome her femininity.  In this strange world, people get birds that live with them for part of their lives.  The birds grow up with their humans and serve them.  As this animal-human friendship grows, it is severed once the oppressive government regime says so.  Tiadone’s bird Mirko is unique in that it sings and communicates with Tiadone through vision.  Ratho, Tidaon’s best friend and fellow worker, has a bird named Thae.  As both characters age, they feel an attraction that they are not allowed to have.  Subtle romance is worked into the book in a way that is not graphic.  As Tiadone and Ratho serve their government, religious tension ensues.  Tiadone worships the Creator Spirit (which is forbidden by state law), while Ratho worships the Four-Winged-Condor (which is promoted by state law).  Tiadone is forced to question every aspect of her life as she lives a lie.  The reader will sympathize with Tiadone when she really believes her amulet will make her male.  While I am not sure if the author intentionally was making comparisons, I will say that Tiadone’s experiences reminded me of the Holocaust.  Not in the sense of genocide but rather in the great religious oppression, the shaving of heads, and the abuse.  Also, the worship of the Four-Winged-Condor was reminiscent of Christianity. [Tiadone is forced to participate in a ceremony where a priest puts a wafer on her tongue and gives her wine to drink.  Also, at one part in the book, the government’s religious institution is accused of worshipping a created being.]  I will not spoil the ending of this book, but I will say there will be despair and victory at the same time.  Tiadone will question her faith and if there is even a God at all.  She will learn what it means to let go of friends and family.  Tiadone will lose some of her dreams but come out more alive than ever.  This book will make you think what your true priorities are and what lives you may be living with.  It will make women embrace their identity as female and learn what true love is. 

"The Sabbath World" by Judith Shulevitz

With candid honestly and vivid imagery, Shulevitz takes us back in time to the ancient Sabbath of years gone by as well as the modern Sabbath of her own life.  We read historical accounts of how people in Israel, Europe, and America kept the Sabbath.  The book does not limit its experiences to only Jews, though; various Christian denominations and their interpretations of the Sabbath are included.  The age-old question of how one should celebrate / honor the Sabbath is not necessarily given an answer.  Yet, Shulevitz gives you enough examples of what others did to figure it out for yourself.  Pieces of the author's life also emerge in this book as she shares her own Jewish experience.  You will read of love, loss, loneliness, companionship, friendship, anger, happiness, sadness, joy, and--yes--the Sabbath.

"Forged" by Bart D. Ehrman

This book is a real eye-opener.  It dives deep into ancient documents and history to reveal the cold hard truth of ancient forgery.  References are quoted in case the reader has any doubts.  Amazingly fascinating are the quotes Ehrman cites from New Testament era writings that did not make it into the Bible.  Some were considered forgeries and some just weren't seemed "Scripture" by the Constantine-appointed powers that be.  Quoting the New Testament, Ehrman exposes many verses that don't match up, inconsistencies, and plain errors.  For those that think the New Testament is all some God-appointed Book orchestrated by God, this book should be read.  If the truth sets one free, then this is as good a place as any to start.  I also want to emphasize that Ehrman does not insult Christians or other religious people.  He acknowledges that Jesus existed (historical fact) and respects the beliefs of others.  Readers will not feel offended or preached at when they read this book.  

"Pagan Christianity" by Frank Viola and George Barna

Written in a historical manner, this book explains where many of the most popular Christian traditions come from.  Readers learn where the church building comes from, the origin of the steeple, where the concept of sermons come from, where the idea of a pope and religious authority comes from, and so on.  New Testament Bible verses are quoted as fact on numerous occasions (think of that what you may).  Unfortunately, this book does not dive deep into where the holidays of Christmas, Easter, Lent, etc come from.  While there is some interesting material found in this book, it erroneously lumped Jews and pagans together on several occasions and states as fact that Jewish customs were "destroyed" by Jesus.  Sigh.

"Lean Body, Fat Wallet" by Ellie Kay and Danna Demetre

As my uncle says, "there's always the phrase that you can never be too rich or too thin."  The point is that being healthy and wealthy go hand in hand.  How can one save money and make smart money choices when they are unhealthy, stressed out, and depressed?  In the same way, how can one make the change to be nutritious and exercise if they are loaded down with debt and juggling numerous jobs?  This book attempts to answer some of those questions.  With calorie-counting tips, advice on what types of foods to eat, motivation for exercise, budgeting charts, information on buying cars, analyses of savings plans, and more, this book aims to help the common reader get in shape and get in a better financial state.  There is an emphasis on positive thinking in this book.  Psychology techniques are implemented as the authors tell the readers how to get past temptation, avoid bad thoughts, and focus on the truth of their goals.  This book is not written by a nutritionist or a financial adviser, so do not expect recipes, exercise diagrams / instructions, or counseling on your particular financial-life situation.  Rather, this book is written by two women who stay healthy (per their definition of healthy) and are happy with their financial situations (also per their definition of wealthy).  There is even a section of raising fit and frugal kids.  What's nice is that this book has a refresher section in the back with quick bullet points of what each chapter was about.  So, if you put this book down for a while and forget some details, you'll be quickly filled in.  

"Everyday Confetti" by Karen Ehman and Glynnis Whitwer

This is a book focusing on entertaining others in your home.  The way it is written, it seems as if the intended audience is women with families.  The tips for making other people feel special while not breaking the bank were good.  For example, the authors talk about sending loved ones quick notes, text messages, collages, homemade crafts, and other gifts.  Both authors are professed Christians, and the theme of mainstream Christianity is in the book.  There are Bible verses quoted and even a whole section of the book devoted to celebrating spiritual milestones of friends / family.  There is some diversity as the book discusses how to entertain during Black History Month, Cinco de Mayo, Veterans Day, and more.  Passover is mentioned on one page, but not much information is given about entertaining--the authors encourage readers to do their own research for hosting a Seder.  Recipes are also included, but I was not a fan of them.  Many recipes had butter, sugar, ham, sausage, and pork.  While there were some healthy recipes thrown in, the bulk of the recipes didn't seem too healthy.  This is a nice book, but not one I'd spend my money on to buy.   

"Ingredients for Success: 10 Best Practices for Business and Life" by Joseph James Slawek

This book revolves around Matthew 25 and dives into how the lessons in those parables translate into business and personal success.  We read about how those who are successful will get more responsibility and rewards, while those who are lazy will get punished and lose profits.  We also read about the importance of being kind to others and donating to charity.  As the CEO of a major corporation, this author has real-life experience in the business world.  At times, the book feels likes the author's own personal journal--there are pages dedicated to the author's listed strengths, things he's grateful for, and even his company mission statement.  This book is very slim and quick to read, with 10 short chapters highlighting the author's "ingredients for success."  The only thing that shocked me was the value of this book.  As a professional book reviewer, I got a free copy.  However, the back cover said it goes for $16.99.  $16.99 for a paperback less than 120 pages is unrealistic.  While this book is nice, it is by no means life-changing.  For those interested in the parables of Yeshua, they can read the Bible online or even get a free Bible from one of the various Bible associations in the world.  Part of what makes parables parables is their ease of understanding and lack of beating around the bush.  Read the parables for yourself, and get a business book is you want tips for better work.  

"Viscountess" by Taversia

Fast paced yet slow to contemplate, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what really constitutes reality.  What makes this story unique is its setting.  It takes place in the future where advances are so revolutionary that ships literally fly through the sky.  However, the culture and society is very much dated with clear lines between aristocracy and serfs.  As the daughter of a wealthy upperclassman, the protagonist enjoys the finer things in life.  Yet, as a woman, many stereotypes and thrust upon her.  Seeking to find her own way in life, the Viscountess uses tech savvy and cunning personality traits to traverse a dangerous cycle of events.  There is some violence in the book but it is not graphic.  Romance is also part of the plot.  While much is left to the imagination, I would not recommend this book for young children.  Teens, perhaps, but not preteens.  There is a hint of tragedy in the story as death is involved.  Speculative superstitions are also intertwined into the series of events.  A key is involved, as are other magical devices.  But the symbols are not so important as what they represent and mean.  This is a story of coming-of-age in an era where much has advanced and much has stayed the same.  At the conclusion of the story, other characters would get the impression that the Viscountess has lost her mind.  However, the reader--and perhaps the Viscountess herself--will have the impression that perhaps for once in her life the Viscountess has found who she really is. 

"Forks Over Knives" written / directed by Lee Fulkerson

“Forks Over Knives” written / directed by Lee Fulkerson is a provocative film on the relation between food and health.   Scientific research and clinical study are combined when the documentary showcases both a surgeon and a professor.  Both men discuss what they have discovered over their years.  You know these men are not biased because they both grew up on farms that sold meat and dairy.  For them to publicly speak out against consuming what they once promoted further proves their credibility.  Particularly fascinating is the international aspect of their work.  A study on China is presented.  Dating back to the 1970s, the study found that certain types of cancers were concentrated in different parts of China.  Each of these different parts of China had different diets.  It was found that the areas of China that had mostly plant-based diets had lower levels of disease and cancer; the areas of China that had more meat and dairy consumption had higher levels of disease and cancer.  But this movie doesn’t just stop with China.  A research paper from India claiming that meat is linked to cancer is replicated by the scientists in the documentary.  The results they find match the results in the Indian paper.  The filmmaker goes a step further and researches the effect of diet on European countries like Norway, as well.  I will not go into detail about all of the studies, but I would like to point out that the information in this film is appropriately referenced and detailed while still being easy enough for the average viewer to understand.  Another fantastic aspect of the film was that it followed a few ordinary people and showed how their health improved (and some diseases went away) for them when they adopted a plant-based diet.  It should be noted that there are some clips of surgery in this film.  So, if you’re squeamish, prepare to avert your eyes when you start seeing lime green medical coats.  This documentary has plenty of tough love, as well as great bonus features. 

     

"Persuasion IQ" by Kurt W. Mortensen

Full of helpful advice, thought-provoking stories, and industry-proven tactics, this book is sure to get you on the right track.  Mortensen will bring you through his ten skills in a quick way that lets lessons stick with you.  You'll even get some laughs, too, as cartoons are included.  What I enjoyed about this book was that it was not geared at one main occupation.  So many books like these are guided towards salesmen.  This book does mention salesmen from time to time, but it does not focus on them solely.  Other occupations are mentioned, and various examples of workers using these persuasion skills are included.  The style in which this book is written flows very well, and you feel as if you are talking to a life coach friend.  You do not feel yelled at like you are with some sort of boot camp guide or personal trainer.  Besides business skills, Mortensen includes tips on being healthy, happy, and having a positive mental / emotional outlook.  I've read business / professional development books in the past, but this one sticks with me.  After having taken the multiple choice test at the back of the book, I know I'm not a professional persuader.  However, with the skills I picked up in this book, I believe I'm well on my way to becoming one! 

"Skinny Bitch" by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouim

This book is definitely not for the weak of heart.  Full of tough love, expletives, and awkward analogies, you will feel like you are being yelled at.  However, you will get a kick out of reading this and will belly over with laughs as you turn the pages.  The premise for this diet / lifestyle is going vegan and paying attention to what you put in your body.  While exercise is mentioned, this book does not overdo it.  There are no intense gym regiments discussed--the authors suggest simple walking for cardio.  Ingredients matter, and the authors explain what many food ingredients mean and how they affect the body.  Toxicity, disease, and cancer are investigated, as well.  The meat and dairy industry and given an honest look, and hormones / steroids are discussed in the factory farming process.  The cruelty done to animals is also not skirted as these vegan authors present a mighty convincing case for going vegan.  In terms of getting protein and other nutrients, the authors give nutritional information for what doctors say our bodies really need.    Pesticides are also explained as the authors encourage readers to buy organic.  What I really liked about this book was how it focused on health and ingredients.  Readers are not told to count calories or diet-system "points" or to even starve themselves.  Readers are told simply to eat real food and avoid all the chemicals and fake "food-flavored products" that are on the shelves and in the restaurants.  It's really quite simple.  I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to be healthy and improve their life.

"The Prophets" by Abraham Joshua Heschel

I've been told that Heschel's writings are works of genius.  After completing this 600+ page masterpiece, I can say I am not disappointed.  This book chronicles the passion, fury, sadness, and unmistakable emotion that swims through the veins of the Jewish prophets.  There is an emphasis on social justice, brotherly kindness, and how God feels about His creation.  Also fascinating are the additional parts / sections of this book that discuss the psychology of prophets, both in Judaism and in other religions.  Historical context is provided and will open the eyes of readers.  Where one man may take a quote from the Jewish prophets out of context to "spiritualize" it, Heschel puts history in its proper place and explains the time, politics, and place that likely influenced the prophet to say what he said.  The ideas in this book will stick with you.