Monday, November 30, 2015

Song of the Stars by Sally Lloyd-Jones

Song of the Stars by New York Times bestseller, Sally Lloyd-Jones, and illustrated by Alison Jay is a board book about the celebration of all creation as they eagerly await the birth of Christ. The animals, trees, oceans and even the stars are anticipating letting the entire world know that God's promised Son, the Creator of ALL living things has been born! "It's Time! It's Time!"




My Review: Of course I loved the story. As a follower of Christ, I want to share the story of his birth with the little ones I love and I do like the sense of anticipation and excitement that builds as the author and illustrator demonstrate how all of creation rejoiced and celebrated the birth of Jesus.

But I thought the book structure was meant more for tinier hands to hold and the words were more appropriate for the 4-7 year old audience that it is meant to reach. It is a good book, but I guess my expectations in seeing the size had my expectations prepared for  the words to be geared more toward a toddler with a more limited vocabulary. So, it is more of a visual thing for me. I had my 1 year old great grandson in mind since it was a perfect size. But, his attention span would not last through a reading. By the time he is old enough to appreciate the words more, he is more apt to think of smaller board books as "baby books." Don't love it, but I did like it. It should be sturdy enough to hold up until he is old enough to sit still for a reading.


**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sally Lloyd-Jones is a leading writer of inspirational books for children. She is the author of three bestselling children’s Bibles, including the Gold Book Award-winning Baby’s First Bible and, most recently, the Moonbeam Award Winner and ALA notable, The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name. She has written many picture books for children, including the critically acclaimed New York Times bestseller How to Be a Baby: By Me, the Big Sister. Sally was born and raised in Africa, was schooled in England, and now lives in New York City. She can be found at www.sallylloyd-jones.com.

I'm Happy For You... by Kay Wills Wyma

Do you find yourself measuring your value against your friend’s house, body, marriage, resume, paycheck, organic garden, or Pinterest-worthy holiday décor, and coming up lacking? Do your college roommate’s Instagram snapshots bear little resemblance to the scene at your house this morning?

Excessive comparison and competition sap our energy and steal our joy. Our friends become our audience and judges, and our kids become part of our brand. Add social media’s constant invitation to post and peruse, and it’s no wonder that we’re left exhausted, discontent, and lonely. Thankfully, there is another way!

With  refreshing candor and humor, Kay Wyma shares her experiences with comparison living and offers readers the simple remedies that helped her and her family reboot their perspective and discover freedom, authenticity, and joy.

My Review:
I'm Happy For You (Sort Of...Not Really): Finding Contentment in a Culture of Comparison by Kay Wills Wyma touches on something we all struggle with to some degree at one time or another: COMPARISON. Since the dawn of mankind, we have looked around and noticed that we did not have something someone else had. No matter how content you may be, there is most likely times you look at someone else and wonder why you don't have what they have, go where they go, or get to do the things they do. And, with the social media being such a major part of our culture, envy can raise its ugly head frequently. I confess I have envied others...and been stunned if someone sometimes says they envy me.

However, Wyma brings this out in a humorous style that makes you laugh at her family anecdotes, but also at yourself and your own moments of envy. There are also a few lessons to be learned along the way. Quite often the "A-HA Moment" comes when it is one of her children working through their own feelings, and sometimes it is when she catches herself worrying about what others may think or if she has completely failed as a parent. Sidebars and inserts from others provides insights from others who struggle.

For those who are looking for a Bible study or great spiritual insight, this book isn't it...and wasn't what I was looking for anyway. However, it was obviously written by a person who lives out her faith and has the same struggles we all have. I am also planning on checking out her blog and look forward to reading more books by her. 


SOCIAL • CORNER






"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.” Deadline to enter is December 4 at 2pm CT.

Thursday, November 19, 2015

No Fear by Tony Perkins

No Fear: Real Stories of a Courageous New Generation Standing For Truth  is a timely book for a world that is increasing becoming gripped in fear with growing violence and unrest all around us. Written by Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council, this book is filled with examples of ordinary people who courageously stood up for what was right and true in the face of opposition. Perkins then correlates the modern person with a familiar Biblical story. We often forget that many of our Biblical heroes were ordinary men and women whom God used.


These stories are familiar to many of us due to media coverage and endless debate on social media, but are told with less hype and slant. There is a tremendous difference in those who boldly are looking for a fight and those who have to test the courage of their convictions when their rights are being assaulted. No Fear is a book written to encourage Christians. It is not a backlash at nonbelievers nor a battle cry to deliberately choose to fight with those in opposition. This is more of a series of short stories of people of conviction and courage that can be read over a period of time. Not my favorite style, but it was well written, and each was a good reminder that trusting in God and being in the center of His will is what His followers are called to do. It is good for personal use or for a discussion group.

Disclaimer:
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review. However all thoughts and opinions are my own.




Tony Perkins tells the stories of young Christians who took a stand for truth in the face of intense opposition. These unlikely heroes will show you the dramatic influence one person can have in seeking fairness, justice, and compassion in a nation. The book also draws you back to the heroes of the Bible who stood up for God in their own day and culture, modeling the same brand of courage that is needed today.
  - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=247070#sthash.0q13ZJwH.dpuf
Tony Perkins tells the stories of young Christians who took a stand for truth in the face of intense opposition. These unlikely heroes will show you the dramatic influence one person can have in seeking fairness, justice, and compassion in a nation. The book also draws you back to the heroes of the Bible who stood up for God in their own day and culture, modeling the same brand of courage that is needed today.
  - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=247070#sthash.0q13ZJwH.dpuf

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

A NIght of Art & Film! Kinkade Presents "Beyond the Farthest Star"



A Dallas Evening of Art & Film with Patrick Kinkade, Zac Kinkade, Andrew Librizzi, Benjamin Dane and the STARS of Beyond the Farthest Star! Watch the film • See the Thomas Kinkade painting inspired by the BTFS story! Advance Tickets Online Only: https://gathr.us/screening/13368

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9

Buck Denver has a simple dream - to save the galaxy.  Working for the Galactic Mission Board, Buck dreams of carrying God's love to every corner of the Milky Way!  Except he doesn't have a starship.  Or a crew.  Or even a captain's license.  He just needs a chance.  But when that chance comes and Buck finds himself leading a real mission into deep space, things don't go at ALL like he imagined!  If he's doing what God wants him to do, why is everything going wrong?  From VeggieTales® and What's in the Bible? creator Phil Vischer, Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9 is a wild, galactic adventure that teaches kids a powerful lesson about trusting God with everything - even our dreams!


My Review: From Phil Vischer, creator of VeggieTales, Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9 is the latest adventure from Buck Denver and pals from the What's In The Bible series. This time, Buck leaves behind his dreary life answering phone calls at the "Galaxy Mission Board" when his daydreams of doing big things for God have a chance to come true. As he races to help repair a transmitter in Section 9, adults are treated to reminders of Star Wars, Star Trek, Buck Rogers, and even the title pays a homage to one of the worst films ever made (and a personal favorite of mine!)... Plan 9 From Outer Space. However, the heart of the story is a lesson that every child should learn and that grown-ups frequently need reminded of too. Perfect timing for me to watch this right now. God is not as concerned as much with what you are doing for Him, God just wants YOU! Trusting Him with your life, even when things aren't the way you had hoped is a matter of you leaning more into God, learning His Voice, and knowing that you may have to give up your dreams---especially when they can come more about YOU than HIM. In time, God may fulfill your dream or He might have a plan you never expected. But nothing is greater than simply walking with Him.

Thank you to Propeller and FlyBy Promotions for letting me watch an advanced screening of this DVD. This is definitely one you will want to own! And see below how you can win a copy.
GIVEAWAY!! Enter to win a copy of "Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9" by leaving a comment no later than October 27, 2015 at 6pm Central. Winner will be chosen randomly. Read rules below:

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”





Sunday, October 18, 2015

Tenacious Faith Tour - Nashville

Tenacious Faith is the name of a new women’s conference. The first stop of the tour is happening in just a few days, and you have a chance to be one of the first to be part of this dynamic ministry. As the name implies, the purpose is to reach out and encourage women to be unwavering in their faith, and not give up while undergoing challenges that will inevitably be faced.


Cornerstone Nashville will host the speakers of the Tenacious Faith conference being held Oct 23-24. Women of all ages are welcome to come experience a weekend of hope, inspiration, and spiritual refreshment. Keynote speaker Kay Arthur, co-founder of Precepts Ministries, is joined by a powerhouse lineup of influential speakers and performers including best-selling author and speaker, Patsy Clairmont; world renowned artist, Nicole C. Mullen; co-founder of Oasis Church of Nashville, Jillian Chambers; and Christian singer, songwriter, and special guest of “The Voice,” Anthony Evans.






Additional speakers include CEO of Co-Parenting International and Mason Jar Productions, Tammy Daughtry; founder and CEO of Home Educating Association (HEDUA), LLC, Rebecca Keliher; founder of Celebrating Women, Linda Trimble; founder and president of Getting Real Ministries, Dawn Pulgine; founder and creator of MomLife Today, Tracey Eyster; author/blogger and Wives of Faith founder, Sara Horn; Dear Magazine publisher Jennifer Sukut; and founder of CUE 52, Jana Jackson.

Speakers will be sharing their personal stories on prayer, emotional health, parenting, self-esteem, organization, enjoying God, authentic friendship, homeschooling, co-parenting after divorce, celebrating singleness, intentional influence and following God’s will. The weekend includes worship, shopping, book signings, movie trailers, a Friday night concert with Nicole C. Mullen and a keepsake collectable program. There are also box lunches you can pre-order for Saturday.


Mason Jar Productions is partnering with 94FM The Fish, Bott Radio, Yes He Is, Feed the Children, Family Magazine, Dear Magazine, BYOU, Liberty University, iShine and Cornerstone Nashville to produce the Tenacious Faith 2015 Women’s Conference. This event offers up to 40 booth exhibitions with national sponsors including The Timothy Plan, Co-Parenting International, NIV LIVE Audio Bible and “War Room,” the movie, all representing Christ-centered products and organizations.


Tickets range from $79 to $149 with group discounts available online. Platinum level seating includes front section seating at Friday/Saturday conference, a fast pass for book signing lines and a private meet and greet with the conference speakers on Saturday during lunch!
To purchase your ticket for this event, go to www.tfaithwomen.com.

Call 629-777-5474 to order tickets by phone


Tenacious Faith Ticket Giveaway: Use code tf2015 for a free ticket awarded to 10 readers of my blog. First come, first served. Register at www.tfaithwomen.com and put in our promo code "tf2015" to receive your free ticket ($79 value).

Friday, October 16, 2015

Bring Beyond the Farthest Star to Cullman - Nov. 10, 2015

BTFS - Cullman - Nov 10



Beyond the Farthest Star is a faith-based independent film starring Renée O’Connor, Todd Terry and Barry Corbin, along with Billy McNamara, Andrew Prine, Cherami Leigh and Lou Beatty, Jr. The film’s storyline features a minister, once revered as “the next Billy Graham,” but now reduced to pastoring a small church in a sleepy Texas town and dealing with a rebellious daughter and a lukewarm marriage. When the town Nativity is burned by an outraged Senator, the media descends, and secrets are brought to the surface as Adam faces circumstances that force him to choose between regaining church super-stardom or restoring his fractured family. The movie touches on many of today's issues including:
  • Separation of Church vs State
  • Teen Self Abuse / Cutting
  • Abortion / Sanctity of Life
  • Priorities of Life - Leaving a Legacy
  • The Importance of Marriage Vows





"Star" is a captivating “beauty from ashes” story of redemption that inspired
a painting by famed artist, Thomas Kinkade, after he viewed a rough copy of the movie a few months prior to his death. His nephew, Zachary Thomas Kinkade, created a painting to complete the desire of his uncle to pay homage to the film. Crystal Lewis also reimagined her hit song, "Beauty for Ashes" and a novel based on the screenplay was written by best-selling authors, Bodie and Brock Thoene. The film was selected to be shown at the recent Values Voter Summit, and even the MPAA (the board that gives movies their ratings) representative called BTFS "the best faith-based film I have seen."

WHY do you have to Reserve Your Tickets before October 30th. These screenings are special events and the theaters expect to have a minimum number of people there to fill the seats. Once a screening is guaranteed, tickets will be available (Online Only) until time for the show to start. We could even be upgraded to a larger room. However, if you wait until the last minute---that may no longer be an option.

This film provides a perfect opportunity to have a discussion on a number of issues that impact our lives daily. It is not overly "preachy" but does point to the Hope we find in Christ. It is great for Youth groups, small groups, recovery groups and people who are struggling to find their way to a fulfilling life.

You can get your tickets Online Only at
http://gathr.us/screening/13282
Screening is Nov. 10th, but ONLY if we reach minimum by Oct. 30th. You can email me at info@pathlightentertainment.com for more info on materials, including hi-res trailers, or to answer your questions.



Saturday, October 10, 2015

Lazarus Awakening DVD Study Pack

Mary worshiped. Martha served. But what did Lazarus do to experience Jesus’s lavish love?

Filmed in the Holy Land, this DVD companion to Joanna Weaver’s book Lazarus Awakening explores the incredible truth that Jesus loves us apart from our works or our worthiness. He wants to call us out of our tombs and into friendship with Him.

Designed for use with the book and companion study guide, this three-disc DVD Bible study is formatted for both individual and group use, with content suitable for both men and women.
·         In-depth Bible study: Features eight 15- to 17-minute video sessions.
·         Bonus “Israel Moment” videos explore the life of Christ and the Holy Land.
·         Designed for use with the study guide and book.
·         Leader’s guide, promotional material, and retreat format included.




My Review: The author, Joanna Weaver is well known for her books on Mary and Martha and in this study, she brings Lazarus "to life" as a person whose life we can learn from if currently struggling through a time of spiritual darkness. The study guides the viewer to a place of fellowship with God and the knowledge that He wants to have a relationship with us. (A fact we all know, but not always fully accept.) This study gives you the chance to go really indepth and is suitable for self-study but it would be advantageous to do it as part of a group study, with the sense of community involved helping to bring awareness to the need of fellowship with God and others.

A negative for me was that some of the camera angles bothered me, so I did much better just listening, although I confess the scenes from the Holy Land were gorgeous. I also did this without reading the book. I have loved other books by this author, so I feel it would have been more advantageous and given me a greater understanding if I had experienced the book before attempting the study.

Disclaimer: I received this DVD/Study Guide Pack from Blogging for Books for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. 


Joanna Weaver is the best-selling author of Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, Having a Mary Spirit, Lazarus Awakening, and the award-winning gift book With This Ring. Her articles have appeared in such publications as Focus on the Family, Guideposts, and HomeLife. Joanna and her pastor-husband, John, have three children and live in Montana. Visit her website at www.JoannaWeaverBooks.com.

Thursday, October 1, 2015

A House Divided by Robert Whitlow

Corbin, a longtime legal champion for the downtrodden, is slowly drinking himself into the grave. His love for “mountain water” has cost him his marriage to the godliest woman he knows, ruined his relationship with his daughter, Roxy, and reduced the business at his small Georgia law firm to a level where he can barely keep the bill collectors at bay. But it isn’t until his son, Ray, threatens to limit Corbin’s time with his grandson that Corbin begins to acknowledge he might have a problem.

Despite the mess that surrounds his personal life and against the advice of everyone he knows, Corbin takes on a high-stakes tort case on behalf of two boys who have contracted non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma due to an alleged chemical exposure. The defendant, a fertilizer company, is the largest employer in the area. The lawsuit becomes a tornado that sucks Corbin, Ray, and Roxy into an increasingly deadly vortex. Equally intense pressure within the family threatens to destroy, once and for all, the thin threads that connect them.

Corbin must find the strength to stand up to his personal demons. Justice for two dying boys depends on it . . . his family depends on it. (publisher's description)
My Review: I have loved every Whitlow book I have read, but this one was just not as satisfying to read. Instead of devouring it within a few hours, as usual, it actually took a couple of weeks. I don't know if the characters just weren't developed enough for me to feel a connection or if it was that the people he was defending seemed to be too minor---more of a subplot, but not essential to the story being told.

The struggles with alcohol, family relationships, and how it impacted the family were interesting, but I wanted more of the legal aspects and how it affected the town. When I got to the end, I thought, "That's it?" It was like the conclusion to the case was tossed in as an after-thought just because he was near the end the book. I wanted to know more. I still love Whitlow and look forward to his next book. This was just a so-so one for me, but he has spoiled me with the excellence of previous novels.


Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book at no cost to myself in exchange for a fair and honest review from BookLook Bloggers.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Captive by Ashley Smith

CAPTIVE, based on a miraculous true story that drew the attention of the entire nation, is a thrilling drama about the spiritual collision of two broken lives.  When Brian Nichols - on the run as the subject of a city wide manhunt and desperate to make contact with his newborn son - takes recovering meth addict Ashley Smith hostage in her own apartment, she turns for guidance to Rick Warren’s best-selling inspirational book, The Purpose Driven Life.  While reading aloud, Ashley and her would-be killer each face crossroads where despair and death intersect hope. 



My Review: I confess that I found this book much more interesting when I read it originally under its previous title, Unlikely Angel. I am sure it was because all of the events were still fresh in my mind and a second reading seems more like a rehash of what I already know. But, I can't hold that against the author. It is an interesting story of how God can use us to reach out to anyone placed in our path, no matter the circumstances, and that we truly are safest when we are in the center of His will. Ashley was able to reach a core of decency within a man who had ruthlessly murdered 4 other people and connect with him. At the same time, she was also able to grow spiritually and strengthen her resolve to trust God and become the person she needed to be for herself and her child. My biggest disappointment is that there was not an update at the end of the book on what is happening to the everyone today. I am curious if Brian Nichols turned his life over to God and if his encounter with Ashley had a major impact on him, other than his capture and imprisonment. It's a 3.5 for me. 


GIVEAWAY: FlyByPromotions has a copy of the book for one of my readers. Leave a comment to enter by end of day September 20th.

Disclaimer: I was provided with a copy of this book by FlyBy Promotions in order to write a fair and honest review. The book was my only compensation. 

 
I also want to mention that there is a film version of the book coming out this month!



SOCIAL • C O R N E R
 



Saturday, September 12, 2015

When Calls the Heart - Trials of the Heart

"Trials of the Heart" is the the start of the second season of When Calls the Heart. When Elizabeth receives news that her mother has taken ill, she returns to Hamilton with Jack as her escort. Once there Elizabeth and Jack are reminded of their different backgrounds as they are surrounded by her affluent family and Elizabeth’s former suitor, Charles Kensington...and her unexpected first meeting with Jack's brother.

Back in Coal Valley, the
trial gets underway in the town with a new judge and a new attorney for the widows who is not what they expected. Abigail meets a family member she was unaware of who provides the key to the outcome of the trial. Jack has to reevaluate his importance in Elizabeth’s life.


,

My Review: This new season brings new characters and some changes to the town. A couple of my favorites are no longer part of the series, but I am intrigued by new developments with the new characters and further development of some we were previously introduced to. There also seems more of moving on to a new chapter from the tragedy of the deaths of so many coal miners. The trial concludes, bringing some closure to people's lives and turning to a new direction. I did not love this one as much as I have those from season 1, but there were quite a few changes for me to assimilate. It's just my nature to be hesitant when new things come along. But, I have no doubt I will be drawn back into charms of this series.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this DVD from EDIFY MEDIA. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

Keep up with news and other fans. You can search social media sites using #Hearties
Follow @WCTH_TC on Twitter
Like When Calls the Heart on Facebook
Join the Hearties FB Fan Page Group

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

90 Minutes in Heaven by Don Piper and Cecil Murphey

Pastor Don Piper died January 18, 1989 when a semi-tractor truck crushed his car.  Declared dead by the first rescue workers to arrive on the scene, Don's body lay under a tarp for the next 90 minutes.  Don's soul, meanwhile, was experiencing love, joy, and life like he'd never known before.  Don was in Heaven.  

When another pastor's prayers helped bring Don back to life, he became a living miracle!  Yet this is one miracle Don wished never happened.  Heaven's bliss was replaced by excruciating pain and emotional turmoil.  With the support and prayers of his beloved Eva, their three kids, and friends near and far, Don clings to his faith in God and fights to regain a semblance of his previous life.  The Piper family's incredible true story of perseverance and overcoming the challenges of life - and death - will bring hope and encouragement to all who see it. (publisher description)


My Review: If you are looking for a book that is completely filled with images and experiences of being in Heaven, this is not the book for you. But, I would also be more skeptical if that had been his focus. The book told enough to share his assurance that Heaven is real and that it is indescribable. Too many details would make me doubt the veracity of his experience.

I did love the story of the power of prayers to make a profound impact. I am sure Mr. Piper was a man of compassion before the accident, but his ability to respond to others facing similar situations sends a tremendous message. He confesses to sometimes wanting to die, especially after leaving a place of great joy and peace. However, instead of being bitter over the constant pain and adjustments he has had to make, Piper turned his suffering into a source of strength and hope to encourage people. To me, the message of the book was that we can endure whatever happens in life---when we have our community who supports us with prayer, God and the promise of Heaven ahead. "
Now, Lord, what do I wait for? My hope is in You." ~ Psalm 39:7

GIVEAWAY: FlyByPromotions has a copy of the movie edition of the book for one of my readers. Leave a comment to enter by end of day September 15th.

Disclaimer: I was provided with a copy of this book by FlyBy Promotions in order to write a fair and honest review. The book was my only compensation.

I also want to mention that there is a film version of the book coming out this month!


About the movie presented by Giving Films:
Releases in theaters everywhere September 11, 2015
Rating: PG-13 (for intense accident and injury images) 
Starring Hayden Christensen (Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones, Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith), Kate Bosworth (Remember The Titans, Blue Crush) Michael W. Smith, Fred Thompson, Dwight Yoakam, and Jason Kennedy, 90 Minutes In Heaven is based on the inspiring New York Times best-selling book that has sold 7 million copies.  

About Giving Films:
Giving Films is passionate about sharing hope-filled movies and donating ALL of their profits to charities and ministries who serve those in need.  Beginning with their first film, 90 Minutes In Heaven, Giving Films is allowing all of us to be a part of making a difference.  Anytime you go to a Giving Films movie in theaters, visit http://www.givingfilms.com and select which charities you want to receive the profits from your ticket.  Their charitable organizations are Christian Alliance for Orphans, Faith Bridge Foster Care, Hire Heroes USA, Hope International, LifeWater, Street Grace, and World Vision. 

S O C I A L • C O R N E R