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Sunday, November 28, 2010

Your Money God's Way by Amie Streater



This is a practical, no-nonsense guide to overcome 7 money myths that Christians seem to be susceptible to. Endorsed by Dave Ramsey, the creator of Financial Peace University, the book caught my eye. Because I’ve been through Dave Ramsey’s stuff, this book solidified it even more. I believe it’s a good complement to his teachings.

The book is packed with stories that show how Christians stay broke by falling for the myths. Having said that, it is not a book only for Christians. It debunks many myths that people fall for in the name of the Bible. I fell for some of these myths many years ago. I do not entertain them any longer. One such example is helping another in need. Yes, you should help them. But, at some point, they need to be weaned. They need to get that job, go to school, and at 30 – move out of the house.

In each chapter, there are sidebars (I love sidebars). They emphasize part of the book that cements the concept in your mind. There is a specific prayer at the end of each chapter specific to that topic. There is another section called God’s Way. For example, on the subject of enabling – We have to truthfully evaluate whether our assistance is helping someone or keeping that individual stuck in a cycle of dependence. Make sense? I think so! The final part of the chapter is entitled Solution Steps, steps that can be taken immediately to help the situation today.

I would recommend this book to a person who is struggling with the Christian viewpoint of money. It’s not rocket science but it helps another person realize when they are being trapped in their beliefs about money, and fighting to get out.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers 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.”

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Unlocked by Karen Kingsbury



Karen Kingsbury has penned a wonderful novel about being locked in the world of autism.

As with all Karen’s novels, she never disappoints. She tackled autism head on. This is not an easy subject to write on.

Holden Harris is locked into the world of autism. He is unable to communicate. He is an easy target and becomes bullied.

Ella appears to have it all including having Jake as her boyfriend. She is shocked to see him bully Holden. She takes a stand. Ella is drawn to Holden but doesn’t know why. It’s in his eyes, no doubt. He connects with her. Why?

It turns out that Ella and Holden were best friends as young children. They danced and sang together and the parents thought they would go to the prom one day. Autism and a lack of understanding took that chance away. Will Ella and Holden ever dance again as they once did?

Although, Holden is unable to communicate, Karen does a wonderful job in showing Holden’s thoughts. Kids with autism are no different than any of us. They love others more easily. They are kind to everyone. They do not judge.

Holden can hear the music. Music may be the key to unlocking his autism. Do you hear the music? Unless we stop and take the time to listen, we never will.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. 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.”