"The Last Christian" by David Gregory

This is a very difficult review to write.

Since the book is thick and the plot involved, I'll provide the backdrop first. Abby emerges from the jungle when her village contracts a disease. She ends up meeting with her cousin Lauren who is a politician and her life partner Sabin (in 2088, people don't get married, they instead have ten-year contracts with partners). Abby develops a friendship with Kate, a doctor who helps discover her village's illness. She also meets up with Creighton, a history professor. The professor's father had a message from Abby's grandfather Ray that mentioned Abby bringing back Christianity to the United States (it is practically considered a dead religion in 2088). In this future era, Nichols is a scientist that developed a silicon brain that electronically obtains a person's memories and is then implanted in the human skull; this way, people still keep their thoughts but have a brain that will never deteriorate. This also relates to "the Grid," which is like a huge Internet system that people with a chip in their brain can connect to instantly; there is tapping, which is like instant and virtual Skype; the virtual reality is real for citizens and easily accessible. Those with silicon brains have a higher mental capacity. However, there is one large compensation / drawback, which I will not spoil. There are other characters that pop up, mostly FBI agents and goonies of antagonists.

Anyway, from the back of the book, readers think they'll get a future Christian revival. That doesn't happen in the book. Gregory has an aptitude for writing, and the pages fly by. Readers just don't get what they bargained for. Abby, who is a missionary's daughter, does not fill the role of what she is expected to. First off, she involves herself romantically with a non-Christian (sure, she says she will not have intercourse with him, but she does become emotionally attached to him and kisses him passionately). While some parts of the book focus on Christian themes, they don't show a mass-conversion that is desired. Abby does share the Gospel with a few people face to face, and she does appear on television, but she does not go about reintroducing Christianity to America with a missionary fervor one would expect. In the end, she realizes something new about Christianity and becomes supposedly closer to God. An event that happens to her does make a small group of people gather regularly to talk about God, but there is no large scale change that the back cover alludes to.

Religiously, readers can view this book either one of two ways. They can view Abby as a normal woman in a supernormal role cast upon her. She is not perfect and did what she could to start the burgeonings of Christianity again. Or, readers can be utterly disappointed in this book. Abby did not introduce Christianity to America in the sense they had hoped for, and she was not the ideal Christian in all of her actions. A good portion of the book is action and drama. Sure, Jesus is mentioned and God comes into play, but not in the sense that the reader expected. In short, this book is entertaining and will keep the pages flying, but, when readers come to the end, they will have a furrowed brow.

"What Happened to my Life?" by Danna Demetre

"What Happened to my Life?--Finding New Passion, Purpose, and Joy" by Danna Demetre is a quasi-devotional book for women. It is geared at the middle aged group of females that are unsatisfied with their current state of affairs. Through copious Bible verses, famous quotations, and personal stories, Demetre shows women that life isn't as bad as it seems. There is talk of 9/11, bulimia, divorce, skydiving, and other enticing topics. Due to the nature of some of the topics, the more conservative Christians may not take to this book as easily as purely evangelicals will. Demetre's intent is in the right place, though, and she emphasizes trusting entirely in God, which is good. Towards the end of the book, there is a forty day series of devotions that include checklists and fill-ins. In fact, much of the book is interactive with space for the reader to write. The prior 124 pages before this are divided into two parts. The first seeks to identify causes of calamity in life / sources of depression; the second seeks to discover new way to be happy; lastly, the devotionals tie it all together proactively. This book is good for middle aged women going through mid-life crises that need to rekindle their love for God from a liberal perspective that they feel won't judge them or condemn their previous actions.

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

"This Fine Life" by Eva Marie Everson

"This Fine Life" by Eva Marie Everson is a coming-of-age story of a young twentieth century woman. Fresh out of boarding school, she wants to do something with her life other than just marry off. The only problem is she doesn't know what she wants to do exactly. However, one day, she meets a man that works for her father. The two fall in love, and her family is not exactly approving. As expected, the two marry and try for children. There is a twist as her husband chooses a new career that creates drama for her. There is much internal conflict as she copes with his decision and wonders what life would have been like if she had just gone for a career instead of love. Suspense and external plot scenarios come in the form of additional characters. While there is romance, this book is not graphic; still, it should not be suitable for young readers. There is some religion in this book, but it is not overt enough to make non-Christians feel the religion is being pushed down their throat. This is a good, lengthy read for a rainy day.

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

"Sistergirl Devotions" by Carol M. Mackey

"Sistergirl Devotions: Keeping Jesus in the Mix on the Job" by Carol M. Mackey is for the working woman. While the series is aimed primarily at African American women, women of other races will enjoy this book. Even men will find advice helpful (with the exception of a few topics pertinent only for women). There are ninety devotionals, each about two pages in length. They all start with an adage, followed by a Bible verse. Then, there is the meat of the devotional that explains the topic and occasionally has a personal anecdote inserted. Then, there is a Power Move paragraph that relates the lesson directly to work. Finally, there is a My Confession part that the reader may say aloud to help them put the devotion into place. The advice given--like dressing modestly, showing up early for work, not saying nasty comments, etc--are mostly common sense. However, Mackey writes in such a way that readers feel they are learning something new, and they want to keep turning the pages. For those looking for a book about evangelism in the workplace, this book is not quite for that. This is more of a successful working woman advice book with a Christian twist.

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

"Branding Basics" by Maria Ross

"Branding Basics for Small Businesses: How to Create an Irresistible Brand With Any Budget" by Maria Ross is a book on marketing in the simplest sense. She goes deep into marketing definitions, myths, and differentiations with branding, advertising, and so forth. Also, stories from personal small business owners are incorporated to add a person touch. Readers truly gage that Ross knows what she is talking about. Everything is written in simple terms but the breadth of it is enormous in terms of content. Even the papers that came with this book were unique and "branded" nicely (some review books come with author bio / book summary / book praise papers included for the reviewer). The only thing is that Ross sells herself short. While her book's title makes it seem like only small business owners can utilize this book, it is quite clear that any business owner (whether that business be small or large) can benefit from the advice in this book.

"Pantry-Friendly Mexican Cooking" by LeAnn Bird

"Pantry-Friendly Mexican Cooking: Economical Ways to Stretch Your Budget Without cutting back on Flavor" by LeAnn Bird will have readers rushing to the supermarket to fill their pantries. With large, full color close-ups of her dishes, Bird tantalizes readers into making them want to cook. After a brief introduction about her cooking history, she wastes no time and gets right into the recipes. What is so great about this book is that it is comprehensive and ridiculously easy to follow. The bulk of the recipes have long lists of ingredients and instructions of a few sentences that mainly involve mixing and heating. No experience whatsoever is needed for these recipes. For anyone who likes Mexican food and wants to cook it, this book will be a lifesaver.

"Short Sale RUSH" by Marian Anthony

"Short Sale RUSH: The Biggest U.S. Ponzi Scheme Revealed" by Marian Anthony is a legitimate guide for nonperforming assets. He goes into great details about personal economics and how they should be managed. He then dives into the ponzi scheme that sucked thousands of Americans out of millions of dollars. The hook of the scheme is explained, and the inner workings of the manipulation are unearthed. Many diagrams, charts, and definitions are provided so anyone can understand the fiscal and legal terms described. There is even a frequently asked questions section in the back for the reader's convenience. Anyone who lives in America and has money should read this book if they intend to keep it.

"Donner the Western Dragon" by Suzanne Davis Narion

"Donner the Western Dragon: A Hero's Tale" by Suzanne Davis Marion and illustrated by Marj Hales is a cute story for little kids. It is about a dragon that plays with a unicorn. He admires nature instead of breathing fire with the other dragons. He is accused of being weird (reading between the lines implies he is effeminate for playing with girls instead of boys). Anyway, one day, there is a snow storm and the dragons are stuck. They try to use fire to melt the snow, but they have used up all of their flame from playing. So, Donner, with plenty of firepower at his disposal, saves the day. There are many parallels for young ones to catch onto, and the artwork is of the utmost quality.

"Remembering the Ladies" by Ann Covell

"Remembering the Ladies: A Century of U.S. First Ladies, 1789-1889" by Ann Covell is surprisingly good. One would not think that a biographical book about American First Ladies from a British writer would be incessantly boring. However, Covell has such a commanding voice in her writing that readers feel compelled to keep turning the pages. The book is divided into three parts, essentially which are time periods. Each has a handful of First Ladies. In this fashion, no one story about the women is ever too long. Childhood histories, eclectic anecdotes, and facetious circumstances are brought into light in this book. Covell takes seemingly "behind-the-scenes" women of American history and brings them into the spotlight that only a skilled writer can accomplish.

"Waiting for Jack" by Kristen Moeller

This book is an irony in itself. It is a book about not relying on self-help books, which, in essence, makes it a self-help book, but I digress. The book is structured nicely. The author inserts most intimate secrets about herself, including bulimia and traumatic childhood / college events. The Jack noted in the title is actually a self-help guru and author. He even has written the foreword of this book. The author had contacted Jack heavily, and, after not hearing back from him in a while about her concerns, she decided to take matters into her own hands and make her own decisions instead of seeking the constant advice of others. Each chapter has a title that relates to the word jack, with a card image like that of a playing deck. The main message of this book are nice, and the intent sincere. The author claims to believe in God--and even quotes one Bible verse--but she does not talk outright about Jesus. There are even Buddhist quotes included and one drawing on the behemoth on a card. In general, the book is interesting but not spiritually filling. She even writes, "...based on the belief we have a hole within us that needs to be filled...is this hole really there? Nothing is missing" (Moeller 127). Clearly, Moeller does not see how dearly she needs Jesus in her life. For those truly looking for help with personal issues, pick up the Bible, not "Waiting for Jack."

"Questionable Therapy" by Steve Godofsky

"Questionable Therapy" by Steve Godofsky is an unusual thriller. The main character is Stacy. She is married to Rick. Both go to Dr. Kraus for psychological therapy. Stacy has a family history of alcoholism and mental health issues. She is a neat freak and has a touch of OCD. Rick is a controlling man that needs to have the upper hand and be the best in all situations. While Rick is off at law school, Stacy stays home and works a job that she strives to succeed at, even though it is second to her real dream job. Depression gets the best of Stacy, and she performs dangerous actions that are outlined in the book. Rick is fed up with Stacy's actions, and he cheats on her both emotionally and physically. Things turn deadly when a man lust for Stacy. The author does a good job here. Readers think the menace is one character--it's predicable and obvious, they say--but it is really another. There are some tiny typos and the unlikely fact that two spouses have the same psychologist, but the story flows. There are sexual innuendos that are not too graphic but still not suitable for young readers. There is also a touch of violence, swearing, and taking the Lord's name in vain. The ending isn't what readers may like, but it's not what they expect, either, which isn't such a bad thing in itself.

"Cecil Learns to Smile" by Charlotte Bucher

"Cecil Learns to Smile" by Charlotte Bucher brings a classic touch to children's stories. The vibrant and skillful watercolors will really hold youngsters' attention. The main frog is a species from Costa Rico with a colorful anatomy. Since he is small, he is picked on and secluded. However, one day, a man takes the frog's picture and posts it all over the world. The frog then becomes famous. Coincidentally, the frog's family comes to visit him after their current location is jeopardized by predators. When this happens, the frog is in a much better place emotionally and enjoys making friends. This book will inspire little ones to research animals, make the best out of situations, and--most importantly--smile. :)

"Virginia" by Susan Hughes

"Virginia" by Susan Hughes will blow readers away. Hughes keeps readers turning each page, not feeling compelled to put the book down due to its controversial nature. There are two girls, Virginia and Ivy, that were friends are young girls but grew apart. One day, out of the blue, Virginia reconnects with Ivy and confides in her that she had an angel come to her with startling news. Ivy does not believe at first. The plot heightens as readers and Ivy discover a startling truth about Virginia's family that involves a jihad-like cult of Christianity. Virginia and one of Ivy's brothers set out to stop it before any real damage occurs. All the while, the book has Ivy's narration with Virginia's at the end of each chapter (some of which are flashbacks). In the end, Virginia commits a jaw-dropping act that saves the day, but not how she originally thought. Strong Christian readers will relish this book as it warns of the false prophets of Matthew 7:15 ("Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves"). There is one contradiction of the second coming of Christ being through a womb; however, that never comes to fruition. Additionally, the way Hughes weaves her story, readers will think Virginia is hallucinating at first or simply viewing a member of her family in a divine light. However, by the end of the book, readers will be scratching their heads and wondering if Virginia really did see an angel.

"Acing Depression" by Cliff Rochey

"Acing Depression: A Tennis Champion's Toughest Match" by Cliff Richey with Hilaire Richey Kallendorf is a powerful book. It chronicles the life of Cliff Richey from childhood terrors up to his untimely divorce. Readers are taken on a journey that goes through country clubs, Europe, and, yes, tennis courts. From boy to man, readers see how Richey's depression slowly burgeoned. Black-and-white photographs are included that give the book a personal feel. While readers do not have to be familiar with tennis rules to understand this book, a knowledge of it will definitely help. In the end, this book shows that even superstars in sports can be sad. This is a nice read for depressed men that think it's unmanly to admit depression. Due to the nature of this book, it is for mature readers only.

"Adulation" by Tiana Wilkins

"Adulation" by Tiana Wilkins is an unusual book. It is about a student who lives with her stepmother. Her father is dead, and what little family she has left is dysfunctional. When she begins to fail Algebra, she gets a tutor. The tutor also has suffered from close parental death, and the two instantly bond. They fall in love and become a couple. While the content isn't overtly graphic, the euphemisms about premarital sex are enough to make Christian readers twinge in disgust. The plot itself centers around the characters and their dramatic arguments, including a deathly scene at the end. In general, this book has good storyline and the characters have a real feel to them. However, the morals of the book, including abortion and teen pregnancy, will not go over well with Christian readers.

"Naked Being" by J.M. Harrison

"Naked Being: Undressing Your Mind, Transforming Your Life" by J.M. Harrison is a list of 450 adages / perceptions of the self. The essence of this book is for readers to get to know themselves better. The naked aspect is meant in the sense that readers should get rid of facades and personas that mask their true identity. The egos and personality walls are torn down as readers understand who they really at the core of their being. The book mentions that the self is without titles or religion. Christian readers may not like this or quotes from, say, Buddha. Still, the text is not too offensive otherwise, and it'd make a good hiking companion.

"You Can Be Everything God Wants You to Be" by Max Lucado

"You Can Be Everything God Wants You to Be" by Max Lucado is sublime. With about 30 small topics, this reads like a devotional book but may be completed in one day if read like a novel. There are small sections that cover topics like work, strength, potential, passion, relationships, greed, purpose, change, and more. Several pertinent Bible quotation and stories are given. The actual format of this book is unique with light blue splotches every now and then, coupled with light blue pictures. While this book is aimed at graduates, readers of any age or stage in their life will enjoy it. It outlines how special each reader is and how God has a purpose for them in life. This is a quick read that will keep readers perpetually smiling as they turn each page.

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"Bugs Adventure Series" by K.M. Groshek

"Bugs Adventure Series" by K.M. Groshek consists of "Bug Goes Through the Maze," "Bug Meets His Friend," and " Bug's Trip to the Store." All three books are delightfully geared towards young readers. The yellow Volkswagen Beetle is the protagonist. In his many adventures, he faces his fears, makes friends, and accomplishes tasks. The vocabulary would make this book best for reading along with a trusted adult (not every little kid will know what irate means). The pictures are colorful and lively. Also, there are many traffic-related references that will teach children safe behavior. The text is nice and big for those just getting into reading after leaving picture books. The morals and ideals in the book are fine and should not offend any household. Overall, this book series is great for kids and may even inspire them to one day go into engineering or science. Even though the series is about cars, both boys and girls will enjoy the books.

"Apparent Danger" by David Stokes

"Apparent Danger: the Pastor of America's First Megachuch and the Texas Murder Trial of the Decade in the 1920s" by David Stokes is a ghastly good read. It is about the famous murder trial where John Norris shot and killed a man in supposed self-defense. There was controversy over this because the Ku Klux Klan became involved to some degree, and the leader of evangelism at the time broke a huge commandment. This book is historically accurate and sites many primary sources that are woven into the story. There is even a list of characters to keep track of the many voices heard in the book. This is useful considering the great size of this book and its depth, both emotionally and literarily. The courtroom scene and famous acquittal are told in suspenseful realism. Some of Norris' past history and interactions, as well as conniving dealings are inserted. At the beginning, Stokes points out that he does not want to offend Christians and that they'd agree Norris deformed the image of Christianity at that time in a most heinous fashion. Readers may never know what went on inside Norris' head, but by the end of the book, they will FEEL something; all good books make the reader FEEL something. Christian readers will keep turning the pages and realize that there is always someone coming in Christ's name, no matter what the era. "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves" (Matthew 7:15).

"How Should a Christian Live?"

"How Should a Christian Live?" is part of the Word of Promise Next Generation Series. Renowned for its famous young voices reading from the Bible, these books come with CDs. This book has 12 devotionals that discuss major Christian topics that give advice on how to live life. 12 may not seem like a lot, but readers will spend a good amount of time going through the book with its many puzzles, word games, journaling space, and encouraged CD listening sections. This is great for young Christians. The messages are obvious and clear as day to mature Christians, but this book and CD gives them a fresh new twist. Even older readers will fun this to be a spunky way to study the Bible. This devotional series is as interactive as interactive gets, and the other books / CDs in the series seem equally promising.

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