Tony Dungy Book GIVEAWAY

!! GIVEAWAY !!

The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge 

by Tony Dungy

You've read the reviews (here's mine),  you've heard the hype and you've seen the promo videos.  Now, it's time to enter to win a copy of the gem devotional for yourself.  That's right!  Right here, right now, all you need to do is post a comment about why you want to read this book.  Then, to complete your entry, either tweet or facebook this link and spread the word.  A winner will be randomly chosen (using random.org) on Saturday, December 31 after 5:00pm (CST).  Don't miss out on this free copy.  We can ship the book anywhere!   

CONGRATULATIONS to Cindi Cunningham who won a copy of this fantastic prize book. 

 

The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge Book Review

Book Review of The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge by Tony Dungy
"This year, dare to be uncommon every day."

     This is the newest offering from Tony Dungy; and a faithful follow up to his previous work, Uncommon from February 2011.  Everyone seems to be passionate about beloved super bowl-winning Indianapolis Colts coach Dungy.  His "uncommon" and true love for Christ is displayed within each and every page of this year-long devotional challenge.  Within the pages, you will find 365 Scripture readings and expressions on how to live the uncommon life.  His recipe for living the uncommon life includes - living with integrity, honoring your family and friends, creating a life of real impact and connecting deeply with God.  The book is honestly calling the reader to be more than what we currently are. 
   You will not regret reading this book.  It's simple, less than 10 minute excerpts for each day of the year.  At the close of each days devotion, you will find an "uncommon key" which is a little morsel of goodness and inspiration for your day.  You will be absolutely blown away by Dungy's candor and willingness to share his testimony.  Go out and get this book right now.  Share each days devotion with your spouse or family.  Make your life uncommon starting today.  Take a look at this video, as Tony Dungy gives an introduction on this soon to be best selling book.




If you would like to know even more about Tony Dungy - find out at www.coachdungy.com

(I received this book free from www.tyndale.com 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

Smitten Book Review

Book Review of Smitten
  by Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Diann Hunt and Denise Hunter
"Love is on the way."

     This new book is a collaboration of four seasoned Christian authors.  They teamed up to bring you four stories that mesh together in the town of Smitten, Vermont.  The local lumber mill is Smitten is closing its doors and a group of resident women fashion a plan to save their beloved town.  They turn the town into a lovers vacation destination, complete with a spa, cabins with hot tubs, and patisserie.  It's a true love story, as the four main characters find their own paths for love.  On a technical note, this book of dalliance includes: interview with the authors, a reading group or book club guide and recipes from the story. 
   If you are a true romantic, you won't be dismayed.  There are plenty of places that will touch your heart and inspire feelings of warmth.  If you are looking for true character development and in depth story, you will not find it here. Each of the four main characters has only about 100 pages devoted to their narrative.  The story tends to feel hurried to get to the end points.  Some of the sentiments and story line are chambre, with lack of depth.  But, if you are looking for a fun read, I believe you will enjoy this light and diverting pleasure. 


(I received this book free from BookSneeze.com 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

The Lucado Inspirational Reader Book Review

Book Review of The Lucado Inspirational Reader by Max Lucado
"Hope and Encouragement for Your Everyday Life"

     As basically everyone knows, New York Times best-selling author, Max Lucado is one of the best and most phenomenal authors of our time.  Lucado has been an acclaimed author for more than 25 years; and this book only ads to his vast library and compliments all of his past work.  This book is a compilation of his very best illustrations, stories and one-liners from his previous projects.  This reader is designed to be read for just a few minutes a each day or whenever you need a good dose of inspiration, hope or encouragement.  Topics enclosed include: The Bible, creation, compassion, evangelism, forgiveness, Jesus, spiritual refreshment, worship and many more.
   Again, Lucado doesn't disappoint.  Our family has enjoyed reading an excerpt together a few evenings a week.  We pick a subject that deals with issues we are facing, and find such hope and sustenance within the pages. We've enjoyed Max Lucado for years, even meeting him at an author signing a few years ago.  You will not be let down by this, or any of his other works.  Pick up a copy of this for a Christmas gift, teacher gift or just for you. 


(I received this book free from BookSneeze.com 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

The Voice Book Review

Book Review of The Voice: New Testament by Ecclesia Bible Society
"Step Into The Story of Scripture"

     I was really excited to receive this Bible.  It's a totally new look into the New Testament.  The Voice "calls the reader to step into the whole story of Scripture and experience the joy and wonder of God's revelation. Created for and by a church in great transition, The Voice uniquely represents collaboration among scholars, pastors, writers, musicians, poets, and other artists, giving great attention to the beauty of the narrative." Some of it's features include: Hundreds of engaging notes throughout, with a topical index for easy use.  Also, four different reading programs to help you step into the story.  In addition, a new look with speaker identification and helpful resources throughout the text.  This Bible is set up quiet like a story, with a fantastic narrative.
    I completely expected not to like this Bible just because it breaks tradition.  Happy to say though, I love, love, love it!  Each book opens with a set up for that book - who wrote it, where they were, what they were doing at the time, and a little history of the book.  It's not written at all like a loquacious scholar.  It's perfect for our day to day home school Bible lesson.  Kids will completely get swept away with this Bible.  It's perfect for daily family devotions; or even to just pick up like a book.  My favorite bit, is that each account has a written setting.  This Bible absolutely comes alive in your minds-eye.  No, I wouldn't use this Bible for serious study or for perfected translation and exegesis (see a good NASB keyword Bible for that).  Nonetheless, this is a great family Bible.  Also it would be a substantial Bible for a new Christian or a beginner at Bible reading.  Take a peek at it, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.  Plus, it's only $6.99 - so it's perfect for a Christmas or birthday gift. 


(I received this book free from BookSneeze.com 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

Heaven Is For Real For Kids Book Review

Book Review of Heaven Is For Real For Kids as told by Colton Burpo
"A Little Boys Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back."

     I chose this book mainly for Lauryl, since I had heard such positive reviews about the prequel novel to this children's edition.  This book is in the words of four year old Colton Burpo.  At the time, Colton was in the hospital, when Jesus came and took him briefly to Heaven.  His account of Heaven fairly lines up with Scripture and is acceptably convincing that he was actually there.  Renowned artist Wilson Ong illustrated this beautiful book.  I was very impressed with the colors, and talent in which each page is divinely painted.  This book is sure to draw in and keep the attention of little ones.  I would recommend this book to children 0-12 years old. Each page is simply written in Colton's words and along with just as much Scripture.  There is also a Salvation Prayer on the last page, and then additional information on the inside back cover that you won't want to miss.  Moreover, there is a little part entitled Questions Kids Ask About Heaven Is For Real.  
    Lauryl's point of view: "I thought this book was very good.  I loved the colors used in the pictures.  I like the part of the story when Colton talks about looking up at God.  He also describes the gates of Heaven really well.  There is nothing I didn't like about this book.  I would recommend this book to all kids aged 5 and up.  It's a great bedtime story book.  I definitely want to read it again."


(I received this book free from BookSneeze.com 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

Muscular Faith Book Review

Book Review of Muscular Faith by Ben Patterson
"How to strengthen your heart, soul and mind for the only challenge that matters"

     Ben Patterson isn't new to the faith or to writing.  Thankfully.  This book is a challenge, in which Patterson makes the "case for pursuing, vigorous, gritty faith" instead of the self-absorbed, lax ways of man.  Patterson implores the reader to stake their entire being and existence on God - our only assurance in our storm tossed lives.  This book contains four parts - the call to faith, the case for faith, the obstacles, and the essentials.  Tyndale even offers online discussion questions if you choose this to be your spotlight book for a book club, Sunday school or Bible study group. 
   This book contains a great quantity of information - some useful, some above what's needed.  Patterson, although, hits the nail on the head with his genuine insight like, "Left undisciplined and uninstructed, disappointment with God will corrode the soul."  Or, "No matter how detestable or present circumstances are, they are not the final word.  They will pass away, but our hope, our eternal destiny, is unshakeable."  Patterson tosses in these outstanding morsels all throughout this book.   Though a tad on the lengthy side, this book is a truly hidden treasure. 
    I Timothy 6:12 - "Run for your life from all this. Pursue a righteous life—a life of wonder, faith, love, steadiness, courtesy. Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses."


(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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")