Wisdom of the Sadhu Book Review

Book Review of Wisdom of the Sadhu

"Teachings of Sundar Singh"

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    Known as India's most famous convert to Christianity, Sundar Singh, loved Jesus and devoted his life to knowing and following him.  Singh left his home at the age of 16 to become a sadhu (a wandering holy man).  Through his drifting existence, his parables became legends and very popular.  This book is a collection of anecdotes, sayings, parables and meditations - which culminates in the best of Sundar Singh's teachings.
    I did appreciate this books as I read through it.  The reader must note that Singh is through and through from India, and his teachings are distinctly Indian idiom. You must look deeply and thoughtfully past the India of the words, and into the heart of the Gospels.  Singh was an incredibly deep thinker; yet the simplest of things like watching hungry birds, brought about insight into God's presence like I have never considered it before.  Reading his works will not only allow you to think of God, the Gospels and Jesus in a different light, but will open your spiritual eyes to new understanding about yourself.  I recommend this book to adults who are open to experience something new and afresh that is far from our western thinking. 

(I received this book free from HandleBar Central as a request to review this book. 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

Motherless by Erin Healy

Price of Privilege by Jessica Dotta 

 

A Robertson Family Christmas Book Review

 

Book Review of A Robertson Family Christmas

  by Miss Kay Robertson
with Travis Thrasher
"The crazy story of one troubled teen who finds the true meaning 
of Christmas where he least expects it."


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    For all of you Duck Dynasty fans out there - you will just love this little novella from Miss Kay Robertson.  It has all the charm and nuttiness that the Robertson clan can bring.  The book is based on the real Robertson family Christmas traditions; and will give you a window into the heartwarming and sometimes-zany moments shared by their family.  This Christmas story opens with a  Chicago-based teen, Hunter, winning a Christmas week with the Robertson's in Louisiana.  Hunter reluctantly takes the trip.  From duck hunting, to present opening, and meeting Phil, Hunter does it all.  You'll have to read the book to see what happens to Hunter.
     This is a simple and charming read from the matriarch of the Duck Commander family.  There is nothing complicated about her Christmas message.  Just the truth and simplicity of Jesus' birth, and the true meaning of Christmas.  If you can't get enough of the Robertson's you will love this book.  If you are looking for a good Christmas read by a strong author, this may not be for you.  Although Miss Kay Robertson brings her deep Southern charisma to the book, the story-line is a bit cliche and predictable.  I would recommend this book for anyone 12 and up.  Warning: There is a mention of Hunter smoking marijuana in the Chapter 33.  This is a fun little read for the holidays that will  bring warmth and cheer to your heart.

I AM GIVING AWAY THREE COPIES OF THIS BOOK DURING THE MONTH OF OCTOBER - CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN! 

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as a request to review this book. 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

 The Book of Revelation Made Clear by Tim LaHaye and Timothy E. Parker

Wisdom of the Sadhu by Sundar Singh

Raising a Mondern Day Princess by Pam Farrel and Doreen Hanna

No Longer a Slumdog by K. P. Yohannan 

Life Before the Lottery Book Review

 

Book Review of Life Before the Lottery

  by Ashlee Bratton
"The 30x30 List...Living Beyond the Bucket"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    Ashlee Bratton and I know each other through a "friend-of-a-friend," and she sent me a signed copy of her book to review here for you.  After receiving the book in the mail, while flipping through the pages, I was immediately hooked.  This book is Fantastic!  (Note the capital F).  First of all, Bratton's writing has ease of reading.  The words flow with mastery and straightforwardness.  Her humor, emotion, and quirky spirit shines through her work.  So let's talk details: This book was written to inspire others to get moving on their life and dreams, through the author's own personal story of living out her own 30x30 list.  Waiting for the winning lottery ticket is a waste of time and your life.  This book will teach you how to "live beyond the bucket," so your dreams don't have to wait.  She touches on tithing, God's timing, facing tough obstacles, really bad days of loss, enjoying others company, learning to enjoy yourself, and so much more.  All through the book she has included "list-making" hints, fill in the blank questionnaires so you can get serious with your goals, and awe-inspiring quotes from others.  Oh, and there are great pictures too!  This book will help you on your way to making your own 30x30 list; or if you are like me (and over 30), your 40x40 list, or beyond. 
     I finished reading this book on a ship heading back from the white sandy beaches of Mexico this week.  That night, I sat on the deck under the moonlight and officially started my 40x40 list.  It was exciting to see my goals, innermost desires and thoughts come alive on paper.  I'm feverish to begin my 40x40 journey, and see where it takes me.  What a special gift this life is.  Let's not waste a moment of it.
     I recommend this book for anyone ages 13+, and every single person you know who is in a slump and needs motivation to begin living life with purpose.  At $15, this book is a steal and a great gift idea for Christmas.  

(I received this book free from Ashlee Bratton as a request to review this book. 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

A Robertson Family Christmas by Ms. Kay Robertson

 The Book of Revelation Made Clear by Tim LaHaye and Timothy E. Parker

Wisdom of the Sadhu by Sundar Singh

Raising a Mondern Day Princess by Pam Farrel and Doreen Hanna

No Longer a Slumdog by K. P. Yohannan 

A Robertson Family Christmas Book Giveaway!

 

TO GET YOU IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT, IN THE MONTH OF OCTOBER WE WILL BE HOLDING A BOOK GIVEAWAY - FEATURING A ROBERTSON FAMILY CHRISTMAS  BY MISS KAY ROBERTSON, OF THE FAMED DUCK DYNASTY TELEVISION SERIES.  I WILL HAVE THREE COPIES TO GIVEAWAY (INSIDE THE US).

A bit about the book:

Hunter Clarke wanted one thing for Christmas: to spend it with his dad and his brother. He misses being included in any guy trips since his parents divorced and he went to live with his mom. So he’s less than happy when his mother tells him that he won a contest to spend Christmas in West Monroe, Louisiana, with a family named the Robertsons. For some reason, they’re supposed to be a big deal. How did he win a contest he didn’t enter? Besides, he’s never heard of them and sure doesn’t want to spend Christmas in a swamp with a bunch of strangers.

Korie Robertson is excited to open her heart and home to Hunter and show him what the Christmas season looks like for the Robertson family. And like it or not, Hunter experiences it firsthand. From duck-hunting disasters with the bearded guys, to learning to cook with Miss Kay, Hunter quickly discovers what it’s like to live with this boisterous, yet loving family. Putting on his headphones and ignoring them is not an option. Before long, Hunter begins to let his guard down. But with Christmas and the end of his trip fast approaching, will it be too little, too late? Or will Hunter be open to the greatest gift of all?

HERE'S HOW TO WIN!

During the month of October (2014) post a comment here and tell me your favorite Christmas tradition.  Then, share this giveaway link on Facebook (using the Facebook icon underneath the video below).  Enter as many times as you'd like, there is no limit to the entries.  Three entries will be drawn at random on November 1, 2014.  The book will be shipped to the three random picks. 

Here's the whole clan to get you in that Christmas spirit, and remind you of their crazy antics...

The Healing Quilt Book Review

Book Review of The Healing Quilt

  by Wanda E. Brunstetter
"Return of the Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club"


REVIEW BY:C. Szymoniak

     I read this book for my daughter's blog, and this is "my kind of reading."  I loved the book because it exemplified all the healing God can do in people's lives just by the little things we do, the acts of kindness, a listening ear, and encouraging one another.  I also enjoyed the snippets of Scripture that are interlaced throughout the story.  Emma and Lamar Miler are living in a winter home in Sarasota, Florida.  As usual, Emma brings her quilting supplies and begins to offer classes.  Wounded and hurting people from all walks of life come to the classes.  Through  Emma's tender hand, and loving, encouraging spirit, healing is brought to her students.  People facing illness, hard knocks, and more, Emma loves them, even when romance is thrown in the mix.  I would recommend this read for women ages 13 and up.  This is a beautiful story of healing and encouragement and quilting!

(I received this book free from Handlebar Marketing Blog Network as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

A Robertson Family Christmas by Ms. Kay Robertson

A Deadly Business Book Review

Book Review of A Deadly Business

  by Lis Wiehl
"A Mia Quinn Mystery"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     You already know I love, love, love anything from Lis Wiehl.  She's my favorite modern thriller author, and this new book doesn't displease.  A Deadly Business picks up where A Matter of Trust left off.  Right from the beginning, Mia Quinn is physically attacked in the courtroom, making your heart pound.  She is then thrust into a new case involving minors, in which she spends countless hours deliberating if they should be charged as juveniles or adults.  The pros and cons of both sides, will keep you guessing.  In the midst of all of this, sidekick detective Charlie Carlson brings to light that Mia's dead husband may have been murdered.  There is scandal, mayhem and intrigue, in true Wiehl style. 

     I love all of her books, and this one is no different.  She left a good cliffhanger on where Mia's love interest will go in the next installment.  This book will keep you on the edge of your seat, as her books always do.  I recommend this book for 14 years old and up, as there is violence, attempted murder, euthanasia, murder, and prostitution mentioned.  It's a quick and easy read for the mystery-lover in all of us.

(I received this book free from BookLook Blog Network as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

The Healing Quilt by Wanda Brunstetter

The Confession by Robert Whitlow

A Robertson Family Christmas by Ms. Kay Robertson

Blind Descent Book Review

Book Review of Blind Descent

  by Brian Dickinson
"Surviving Alone and Blind on Mount Everest"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      I read this book because it sounded very interesting.  Here is what the book blurb states...

"Former Navy rescue swimmer Brian Dickinson was roughly 1,000 feet from the summit of Mount Everest—also known as “the death zone”—when his Sherpa became ill and had to turn back, leaving Brian with a difficult decision: should he continue to push for the summit, or head back down the mountain? After carefully weighing the options, Brian decided to continue toward the summit—alone. Four hours later, Brian solo summited the highest peak in the world. But the celebration was short-lived. After taking a few pictures, Brian radioed his team to let them know he had summited safely, and got ready to begin his descent. Suddenly, his vision became blurry, his eyes started to burn, and within seconds, he was rendered almost completely blind. All alone at 29,035 feet, low on oxygen, and stricken with snow blindness, Brian was forced to inch his way back down the mountain relying only on his Navy survival training, his gut instinct, and his faith. In Blind Descent, Brian recounts—in fantastic detail—his extraordinary experience on Everest, demonstrating that no matter how dire our circumstances, there is no challenge too big for God."

    Don't do as I did and get your hopes up for a good read.  This book has nine painfully long chapters.  The first seven (that's right, SEVEN) just discuss tools needed to summit a mountain, explain the long road to get to the various mountain side camps, and other nonsensical rantings that have nothing to do whatsoever with the blind descent we all want to read about.  You will get about thirty minutes of the actual account of descending blind.  Also, do not be led astray that he descended the entire mountain this way.  He descended the beginning of the mountain, until his buddies found him.  Now, the actual blind descent is miraculous, and awe-inspiring.  And, I wish the author would have written the majority of the book about it, and went into detail about the one-on-one experience he had with God on the side of the mountain.  But, you won't get any of that here.  If you are big into climbing mountains, you may want to read this book.  If you aren't...just read chapters 7-9 and you won't miss a thing.

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

The Healing Quilt by Wanda Brunstetter

A Deadly Business by Lis Wiehl

The Confession by Robert Whitlow

A Robertson Family Christmas by Ms. Kay Robertson

Daisies Are Forever Book Review

Book Review of Daisies are Forever

  by Liz Tolsma


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      If you enjoy historical (circa 1945) fiction, you will truly enjoy this new novel by Liz Toslma.  She expertly takes the real life stories of two German women who survived World War II and the subsequent retaliation on Germany; and joins them into one story of one woman that takes the horrific journey from Heiligenbeil, East Prussia to Berlin, Germany. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat as the bloodshed is unimaginable and the turns are surprising, but it is also full of heart and the will of the human spirit to survive.  God's love, and the hope of a better future urge the characters on and into the unknown.  You will certainly come to love Mitch, think the elderly sisters are amusing and adorable, and want to rock poor Gisela to sleep on your lap.  I recommend the book for mature teens and older.  There is much reference to killing and rape.  This is an excellent story, from an exceptional best-selling author. 

(I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Summer.... 

Blind Descent by Brian Dickinson

One God One Plan One Life Book Review

Book Review of One God One Plan One Life

  by Max Lucado
"A 365 Devotional"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      Are you a teen looking to start or amp up your quiet time and relationship with God?  This book is a super place to start. Guys and girls can find 365 days of spot-on devotionals written just to them.  Each day starts with a verse.  Then follows Lucado's devotional chock-full of wisdom, life application and Godly vision.  Each day is wrapped up with "One More Thought" reiterating the devotional and giving advice that teens need.  This book is beautifully written, but more over it's sturdy and small enough to fit on the nightstand,  gym bag or airplane carry on.  The book will run you around $15, but is well worth the investment.  You will not only get a years worth of reading, but eternal rewards as well. 

(I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Spring.... 


Hidden Falls (some episodes) by Olivia Newport

Blessings of The Cross by assorted authors

Blind Descent by Brian Dickinson

Primal Fire Book Review

Book Review of Primal Fire

  by Neil Cole with Dezi Baker, Ed Waken, Phil Helfer and Paul Kaak
"Reigniting the Church with the Five Gifts of Jesus"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      Right now!  Don't even bother reading my review.  Just go get the book. 

    If you are in ministry in any capacity  - pastor, missionary, nursery care, Bible study leader, Sunday morning muffin baker - you need to get this book. 

    Sometimes we wonder where we fit in the Great Commission, it's God's Kingdom and within our church.  We feel pressure to "do it like her" or "be like him".  You aren't "him" and you certainly aren't "her" - you are YOU!  You were created in God's image which means you hold in your soul one of Jesus' five gifts.  This book will help you identify where you will best fit in ministry - and it's probably not what you think.  The book is so much more than that as well.  There's historical theology and Cole's exegesis is phenomenal.  Everything points back to Jesus' ministry, really equipping you to get out and do what you are called to do.  I think not only the congregation of a church, but all church leadership needs to get a hold of this book, and fast.  The hierarchical leadership in modern churches is pushing out people with gifts that need to be used in the church.  Isn't the church about furthering God's Kingdom?  Isn't that the whole point of the Great Commission?  Doesn't everyone sitting in a church wonder blankly, "Where do I fit here?"  This book will help guide the reader to what ministry position they are best suited for; and help leaders point their members to the right direction, and not stick them in a place they won't thrive.  A fire will light inside of you begging you to find your place, and urging you on for something more.  Not all of the gifts are leading a Sunday School class - some are out in the wilds and on the road.  Are you excited yet?   I recommend this book for 16 years old and up, or for a younger student seriously considering where they fit within the church and out in ministry of any kind.

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Spring.... 


Hidden Falls (some episodes) by Olivia Newport

Blessings of The Cross by assorted authors

Blind Descent by Brian Dickinson

Blessed Child Book Review

Book Review of Blessed Child

  by Ted Dekker with Bill Bright


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      I will tell you right now that this is the third, possibly fourth time I have read this book.  Obviously, I'm going to tell you I really like it. 

    This books opens with a bang, like any other Ted Dekker book you may choose to read.  The action begins at the Debra Damarro, an Ethiopian Orthodox monastery in a remote corner of Tigre in northern Ethiopia.  A boy is rescued from near death, all the while, his liberators are running for their lives as well.  Ending up in America, this rescued boy, Caleb, is unveiled to be something special.  Something so remarkable, the world has not seen anything like him before.  You must read to find out if his powers are psychic, supernatural, miracles, or purely a child that walks with God. 

    I have always loved this book for many different reasons.  Mostly because it will really make you deeply question your own ability to walk in God's kingdom.  Also, because Dekker is just a plain out amazing author.  I don't think there are many stories tellers as good as he is around today.  He may just be the best.  This book is followed up with the sequel A Man Called Blessed which is also remarkable.  I recommend this book to anyone ages 12 and up for a good adventure read that also contains strong life application.  Note to parents:  There are guns, shooting, and some mild violence by a horrid caregiver.  Grab a copy and get to reading!

(I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Spring.... 

Primal Fire by Neil Cole 

Hidden Falls (some episodes) by Olivia Newport

Blessings of The Cross by assorted authors

Rich in Years Book Review

Book Review of Rich In Years

  by Johann Christoph Arnold
"Finding Peace and Purpose In A Long Life"

REVIEW BY: C. Szymoniak

      I'd like to introduce to you, my mother, Cynthia.  She's joining me today to be a guest blogger and reviewer here.  I asked her to read this book and let me know what she thought about it. 

     "This book is about entering your older years with peace and contentment.  To find wisdom for the decisions you need to make as an older person.  Also, it encourages the reader to have a teachable spirit as we grow older, so you can offer something to life and society.  To be still, and know that God is God.  This book is a compilation of short stories, with the contributors being a variety of older people.  It gives their take on life and the process of growing older.  Each short story takes about 10 minutes to read.  Not only is there Scripture is in the mix, but also poems and anecdotes along the way, my favorite being...'Even if I don't need an proffered arm, I learned to say, I don't really need it, but I love to have your company.  My philosophy is, 'keep going as much and as long as you can, but don't let it isolate you."
    "I really enjoyed this book, and found that I would read different passages through more than once.  I wanted to soak in the treasures within the pages so that I to could be a comfort to others and keep an open spirit and teachable heart as I approach my older years.  I would recommend this book to a caregiver, men or women, and anyone that has a godly-character and would like to express it in their older age.  I did find the book uplifting, but do think that it only pertains to the group of adults that are 50 years old and older.  I want to close by relating to you that older people in your life are very valuable.  They possess wisdom and knowledge for those younger.  The aged person is not for discard, but a credit to society that should not be overlooked."

(I received this book free from Handlebar Publishing as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Winter.... 

Blessed Child by Ted Dekker

Frame 232 Book Review

Book Review of Frame 232

  by Wil Mara
"A Jason Hammond Novel"

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      Do the words "Babushka Lady, grassy knoll, and Dealey Plaza" mean anything to you?  They should since they are all part of this nations history and are memories of President Kennedy's infamous assassination.  Speculation has gone on for 50 years on who the Babushka Lady is in Adam Zupruder's famous footage.  Wil Mara cleverly tells a tale putting together (fictionally, of course) the missing pieces of this ongoing public mystery.  This is the first installment of the Jason Hammond series, the next being a tale of cryptic documents from Howard Hughes.  Mara has been writing for almost three decades, and this latest work shows his prowess with a pen. 
  
    This book is very excellent.  I was completely captured from the prologue to the last word.  The chapters are short, which makes it perfect bedtime reading.  So many theories on the Babushka Lady and multiple gunman have been swirling around the better half of a century.  Wil Mara's fictional version is outstanding.  He's obviously done his homework on the assassination and events surrounding it.  His words paint brilliant pictures in your mind, as if you were there.  I'm waiting eagerly for the next installment featuring Jason Hammond, a genius with a dark past.  This book is highly recommended for mature teens and up.  There are graphic depictions of the murder, and also a pretty tough kidnapping and minor reference to rape.  Guns, hit men, deceptive government officials and the like are all part and parcel. 

(I received this book free from Tyndale Publishing as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Winter.... 

Blessed Child by Ted Dekker

His Treasure Book Review

Book Review of His Treasure

  by Sheri Rose Shepherd
"Gems of Love From Your King"

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

   Renown author of the His Princess series, Sheri Rose Shepherd, added a great little treasure to her stack of books this year.  When I say little,  I do mean it is actually small.  It's only around 6"x4" and can easily be toted around in your car, purse, etc.  This book is not a devotional, but close.  There are pages and pages of letters to the reader from "God" penned by Shepherd, yet all Scriptural.  Each letter also has an adjacent Scripture.  Each letter is labeled according to what the treasure is on that page - example: "My Treasure, His Masterpiece"..."My Treasure, His Light".  Not only are the words that are written a healthy dose of encouragement and nurturing, but the pages are stunning.    It's like wallpaper for every woman.  This book would be a perfect gift for any woman in your life - baby or mature Christian's alike.  Each gem will uplift you and bring you closer to understanding who you are in Christ.  I personally feel that $15 for this book is on the expensive side, but it's still worth the purchase for yourself or another lovely lady in your life.  Women 16 and up would treasure this little gem. 

(I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their blogging 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Winter.... 


Frame 232 by Wil Mara 

Blessed Child by Ted Dekker