Eye Has Not Seen nor Ear Heard

          
                    Steven R. Musick was a typical young person with plans for his future, very much like any young adult when he had a tragic mishap.  He became comatose for five weeks after suffering from an allergic reaction from a vaccine.  It also caused his heart to stop. 
During this period of time God grants Musick a peek into Heaven.  It's profound beauty is hard for him to put into words but Steven is certain about one thing...he doesn't want to leave here.  The author confirms the verse found in the Holy Scriptures  1 Corinthians Chapter 2 verse 9 which states, '"No eye has seen, No ear has heard and no mind imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him"'.

I had a great desire to read this true account because on July 17, 2016 I suffered a heart attack and flat-lined more than twenty times.  Being in the hospital I was always close by the medical staff and they would immediately use the defibrillator to bring me back to life which would halt a near death experience.  I was very curious as to what the writer experienced.  I was given the opportunity to read in exchange for my thoughts by the Blogging for Books team.  I enjoyed this story so much that I read it several times before starting my review.  There is such encouragement and inspiration pertaining to the Heavenly home that Christ has prepared for His Children.  I highly recommend this book.

The Lord's Prayer For the Younger Set

                         A lovely way to introduce God's promise's to children with sweet illustrations to make The Lord's Prayer become alive.  Author Rick Warren best known for the best seller, The Purpose Driven Life assists in this Zondervan creation.  Richard Jessie Watson who has been illustrating children's books for years shares his artistic side.  This is a board book which will last a long time.

Written in poetry style it is easy to understand for the younger set.  This would make a wonderful gift for children.  I was honored to review for Book Look Bloggers in exchange for my opinions.

The Beyond Suffering Bible Is An Answered Prayer

Long overdue THE BEYOND SUFFERING BIBLE answers all those questions which make individuals take a backseat to serving God such as:  If God is Loving, why does He allow suffering. Why doesn't He just stop all the hurting and pain.  This unique Bible answers these harrowing questions to confirm to readers that He has a plan for all things. 

Tyndale could not have chosen a more adequate spokesperson for their newest creation than Joni Earickson Tada who became a permanent quadriplegic after a diving incident at a very young age. I greatly recommend reading her true story of triumph and faith which inspired me as a teenager Joni's autobiography .  Her disability has drawn her closer to her Savior and she has become an asset to the Christian community as helping all those with disabilities.  She has worked to add wonderful resources to these scriptures such as ten guided Bible reading plans '"that help you walk through Scripture on key topics related to suffering and disability."'  On every single page there are connection points or study brief's which focus on Biblical suffering.  There are so many enduring features included in this Bible such as book introductions; Profiles; and devotionals.  All to assist and deepen your understanding of how Christians cope with suffering.

I love this Bible and have not been able to put it down since I received my copy from Tyndale in exchange for my thoughts.  What a blessing which has been designed to give as a gift.  I can't say enough good about this tool which will encourage and uplift your spirits. A+

A Definite Must Read for those Facing Adversity

       
                   Chase Away Cancer is the riveting story of the Ewoldt family.  Their young son is diagnosed with terminal cancer and even in their darkest nights they refuse to give up on hope.  They will put us. who have very little to complain about in life, to shame and grateful that our lot is not as heavy.  They will give encouragement to others facing tremendous trial.  They will remind us about Miracles and hope and love.
The author, Ellie Poole Ewoldt, brings the families reality to light and we find ourselves fighting along with them.  I am grateful having had the fine opportunity to review this book for Tyndale Blog Network.  A Definite Must read~

Grieving the Loss of a Loved One ~

                 Kathe Wunnenberg offers a resource of daily comfort as individuals face each day without their loved ones.  She successfully shares personal experience along with scripture to help her readers tackle the roller coaster of emotionals a person goes through while grieving.  This book would make a marvelous gift for anyone whose beloved has died.  I could never figure out why individuals spend a fortune on flowers which are here and gone tomorrow.  Kathe's book would last a long time and be a help in aiding the healing process.  I have read many books on grieving and feel Ms. Wunnenberg's deserves highest honor.
Today I will be attending my cousin's mother's funeral.  My cousin, Teri and I are very close.  In the course of this last year, her father passed away and than her son died and now her mother.  I will be giving her this book, Grieving the Loss of a Loved One in hopes that it comforts her throughout this difficult past year.
I highly recommend.  I had the honor of reading for BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion.

Our Lives Had Once Been Beautiful and Our Lives Are Beautiful Still

   
           September Vaudrey's, Colors of Goodbye has moved me more than any other book I have ever read on loss.  Her loss is a parent's worse nightmare, that of losing a child.  Katie, her amazing daughter (a daughter that any parent would be proud to have) dies suddenly of an aneurysm at the young age of 19. Any doubt of the Vaudrey's faith in God is relinquished when reading this true account.  September shares her raw struggles which match what many Christians face when facing tragedy yet I have never seen in publication.  Mom Vaudrey questions whether the loss of her daughter is somehow because of something she did in the past.  Read along as genuine friends reassure her that it is not her fault.  From the point of impact of the accident on God makes himself known with visions and miracles to aide the Vaudrey family through their heartbreak.  Real evidence that God is there and that God is Good (Author's words) even when we think He is not.  Ms. Vaudrey's growth through her pain offers Hope to all that the sun will shine again and that they don't have to give in to bitterness and anger.  This stellar publication offers tools to help all those facing horrendous loss.  Special Kudos to Katie Vaudrey for leaving a life of ripples and to September Vaudrey for having the courage to share their story.  I am more than honored to have been able to review this book for the Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for my thoughts.  Think upon these wise words from the writer,
'"God never promised me a lifetime with my daughter.  He never promised me any of the blessings I get to treasure everyday. He promises us comfort in sorrow, strength when our faith fails, inexplicable peace, His presence in storms and life in all its fulness for those who follow him---but not a pain free life.  And the things he promises, He delivers."'

Jessie Minassian's "Unashamed" Helps Young People Break The Silence

                  Unashamed 'Overcoming the Sins No Girl Wants to Talk About' by Jessie Minassian is a tremendous asset for young women today.  This knowledgeable book will help individuals understand that they are not alone and need not isolate. Young people no longer need to suffer in silence.  The most wonderful news is that there is hope.  The author helps the reader find the spiritual tools to break from bondage and free herself of self-hate, anorexia, cutting and other disturbing practices that become addictions.  Ms. Minassian makes a sensitive approach on dealing with those things that what otherwise beset us.  I was given the tremendous opportunity to read and review this book for the Tyndale Blog Network.  

God's Tender Messages To A Grieving Father~

                  The Hope of Heaven (God's Eight Messages of Assurance to A Grieving Father) by Alan M. Hallene Jr. is a confirmation that God still speaks to us today even in our darkest hour.  The author of this true story is brave to share every detail of his son's suicide in order to reach others and spare such a tragedy from occuring to them.  Heart wrenching but uplifting, this book is bittersweet and has many powerful messages.  At times it is raw and hard to read making the message more remarkable as we realize the pain the Hallene family had to endure in order to recall and share it.  I was honored to review this book for the BookLook community in exchange for my views.  This book is an excellent resource not only for those who lost loved ones but also is instrumental for those facing depression.  All christains would benefit by reading.
     

C.S. Lewis, Leo Tolstoy, & Oscar Wilde's Easter Stories, Classic Tales from the Finest

                       The perfect way to celebrate Easter with your family and friends, this book will surely become a favorite for years to come.  The spiritual lessons and wonderful interpretations of the resurrection shall long remain in each reader's heart.  A compilation of classic short stories by these great authors  C.S.Lewis, Leo Tolstoy, Oscar Wilde, Elizabeth Goudge and many others shall birth a annual tradition to enjoy during Lent and Easter Season.  This book comes with high recommendations from this reviewer for Handlebar Publishing.  I enjoyed the opportunity to receive a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Watch For The Light Expounds Upon The True Meaning of Christmas

                   Somewhere among the Black Friday Sales, the massive decorations and long gift lists we have all lost perspective as to the true meaning of Christmas.  Many individuals become depressed because they can't spend a lot of money this year or one of their family members are no longer with them for the Season.  If we go back and reflect upon the real reason for Christmas which is hope, than many of these worries and stressors would dispel.  Watch For The Light Readings for Advent and Christmas puts Jesus Birth and the reflection of his birth way ahead of any other priority for the Holiday.  This book is a must read as a reminder of the importance of our Savior's birth.  Handlebar gave me the opportunity to review this fine collection in exchange for my views.

Rush of Heaven Is A Source Of Comfort & Hope

                   Rush of Heaven has special meaning to me.  This true account of Ema McKinley (the author) who endures a horrendous accident at her workplace which subsequently leaves her in chronic daily pain from reflex sympathetic dystrophy (rsd) is near twin to my recent experiences.  I literally could not put this book down.  By sharing her ups and downs with the reader, she also offers hope and comfort.  Her strong faith in God is to be admired as is her great love for him which never waivers even during her most uncomfortable moments.  Twenty years after the accident, her faith is rewarded and she is healed by Jesus.  For the naysayers (those who don't believe in miracles) she provides proof through her updated doctors reports.  This is an outstanding read which will enhance each readers faith.  I was given the opportunity to read and review for the BookLook community.

Wait Until Then Is A Masterpiece For Children About Heaven

     
                  Definitely my favorite Tyndale read this year, Randy Alcorn's "Wait Until Then" supersedes all other books for children on the subject of Heaven.  Perfectly written, in easy to understand fashion and it has beautiful illustrations.  This sweet book explores the promises of Heaven, finding positive meaning in our trials and what happens when we die.  These in depth subjects are presented in such a tender way through the story of a Grandfather "Gramps" who has cancer  and his beloved grandson "Nathan" who struggles with spinal bifida.  In true Randy Alcorn style, the best selling author offers a ray of hope and joy to his readers.  Always backed by scripture, this book of only 32 pages offers numerous uplifting spiritual lessons.  I highly recommend this book to anyone facing a giant in their life to gain perspective and courage.   Excellent Read!

A Stellar Tool For Those Struggling With Infertility & Miscarriage

BARREN AMONG THE FRUITFUL~Navigating Infertility with Hope, Wisdom and Patience by Amanda Hope Haley is a must read for all those facing the struggles and heartbreak of infertility and miscarriage.  This awesome book can also bring encouragement and inspiration to all others facing lifes difficulties and how to learn to cope when your desire does not become a reality.  Another great tool in the Inscribed Series which I was given the honor to review for BookLook Bloggers.  I personally wish that this asset was available during my child baring years in which I suffered eleven miscarriages.  The emotional roller coaster parents face can be devastating; especially when they feel they are alone.  I am thankful that my prayers were answered in that I was able to deliver two healthy daughters through high risk pregnancies.  Amanda Hope Haley develops an immediate bond with her readers.  Addressing the many concerns and conflicts families face in like situations allows her to reach out in compassion and understanding and give them the hope and encouragement to continue on.  Her Faith is contagious and welcomed.

Give The Gift Of Encouragement to Those Facing Breast Cancer

       The NIV Pink Bible An Invitation to Hope is the perfect gift you can give your loved one that is facing breast cancer.  Beautifully boxed and ready to give, it contains a special index to verses of hope and encouragement.  Also enclosed is ten special pages of prayers and reflections along with a pretty ribbon marker.  Show your concern even when it is hard to put into words by bringing your loved one positive messages of how God will grant his strength and peace.  I am honored to have reviewed this new Bible for Zondervan and Book Look Bloggers.

RICH IN SPIRIT

  Brenda Spahn thought she had her entire life planned out.  Being denied the priviledges of nice material items while growing up her only goal was to become rich someday.  Her determination and hard work bring her to her goal until one day she loses it all,  Her true story of how God transforms her thoughts to a higher calling to help others is included in this stellar book "Miss Brenda and the Loveladies~ One woman's brush with prison...A Community of Women fighting the odds for survival on the outside...".  The author discovers the meaning of being "rich in spirit" and how living and giving for God has greater rewards than material things.  I was given the awesome opportunity to read Ms. Spahn's journey from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest thoughts,  I highly recommend her story as it is full of hope and will inspire all who read it.  Read about the Lovely Ladies center on the
Author's website

 

Lauren Scrugg's ~ Beautiful Inside & Out

 

As the founder of  LOLO Magazine little did the very gorgeous, Lauren Scruggs know what was awaiting her in the near future.  Not only was she a natural beauty but she would have to summon up all her inward spiritual beauty to survive a horrendous accident where an airplane's propellars cut off her hand and disfigured her face.  Ironically her career centered around appearance.  The rich Christian stories of faith that her parent's taught her would now become her comfort and hope.  A few weeks prior to the accident after breaking up with her boyfriend James, he had a premonition that something awful was going to happen and he begged her to be careful.  While on the airplane, Lauren began to feel overwhelmed with panic and anxiety.  Not understanding why, the only thing she could do was pray.  After surgery, Lauren slips into a coma.  The writer fills us in on young Lo Lo's life.  It wasn't always easy.  She is a twin to Brittany and they are inseparable.  The Scrugg's family faces adultery, divorce and after many prayers remarriage.  The second time around the entire family choose Christ as their main priority.  Christ would also become the reason for Lauren's healing.  This true account will inspire many never to give up in the face of adversity.  Lauren reminds us what true courage is.  She fights to regain her career back and comes back on top.  I am thankful to Tyndale Blog Network for the opportunity to read such a sensational book!

Depression~Why You Just Can't Snap Out of It

        If you have ever been plagued by the dark clouds of depression and felt that there was no more hope or nowhere to turn, Gregory L. Jantz PHD will help you understand the pitfalls of this chemical imbalance and how you can appropriately get the help you need.  This book is also highly recommended to those who have family members with this disease.  Contrary to popular belief, an individual with a mental disorder cannot just wish it away although well meaning friends and relatives will expect them to do so.  This stellar book will open your eyes to the fact that depression is a chemical imbalance which needs to be treated appropriately by a psychiatrist and/or psychologist.  Depending on the degree and determination of the type of depression, most likely the doctor will prescribe anti-depressants and therapy.  The important fact is to realize, the afflicted can get better.  Many who have went through treatment are more content in their lives than those who never experienced the difficulties they went through.  Dr. Jantz outlines all the symptoms of depression so that the reader can interact.  He includes written lessons for the victim to do as well as giving them questions on what they have learnt.  This book will prove to be a blessing to all those who read it.  I was given the pleasure to review from Walterbrook Multnomah Blogging For Books Program.

Rebekah Lyons Criticizes Treatment for Depression Will Send Wrong Message

                  

 

As a former housebound agoraphobic due to chronic anxiety attacks and concurrent depression it was difficult for me to read Rebekah Lyons Freefall to Fly  A Breathtaking Journey.  Her book covers her struggles with anxiety and depression but she does not seek professional help and discourages anyone who uses antidepressants.  Instead of being uplifting I felt this book proposed it was wrong to get the appropriate treatment which is available.  Unfortunately there is a lot about mental illness she does not know and should not be making unfounded suggestions.  Its sad because this just contributes to the ignorance that is already associated with depression.  I am a Christian who believes that God blesses doctors with the knowledge they have to treat them,  Depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain, therefore medication is given to stabilize it's victims just as a person who is diabetes needs insulin.  Once I got the appropriate treatment which was a combination of therapy, medication and prayers I overcame the agoraphobia.  Mine is such a success story that it ended up in The Detroit News.  To discourage anyone who is suffering from depression from seeking treatment is just wrong.

This is one of the few books I highly do not recommend. 

When Happily Ever After Shatters

Sue Birdseye bravely tackles the sensitive subject of divorce among Christians.  Still today, divorce is frowned upon in many denominations so the subjects involved feel that much more alone and heartbroken.  I can relate to her pain and determination to rely on God's help after experiencing one of the most devastating occurances in life.  The deep hurt of adultery and abandonment drew the author closer to her Faith while so many in the world tend to become bitter at God and resent him for their misfortune.  Her mature spiritual understanding allows her to realize that this was not God's will but her spouse's choice and that God feels our deep sorrow.  Ms. Birdseye shares with us the many phases of her grief from trying to hide her feelings from others and finding joy in the new found confidence of being independent.  Her journey can help many others know that they are not alone and that they too will heal and better days are ahead.  It's a wonderfully written book which I was given the opportunity to read from Tyndale network.  I only wish this book had been available years ago when I was going through the same.  I highly recommend the book as well as what the author is conveying '"Never Give Up"'. 

Lord, I Give You This Day

Author Kay Arthur's Lord, I Give You This Day 366 Appointments With God was a rewarding experience for me.  I am grateful to Blogging for Books for the opportunity to get to know this writer.  I really enjoy her writing style and look forward to obtaining more of her books. This daily devotional beacons the reader to make a greater commitment to their service for Christ.  She explains how we can make God our center no matter what may befall us.  Highlighting many opportunities to please our Lord and draw closer to him, this book will walk us through many of the trials that we all

encounter.  With scripture, the author is able to uplift and encourage us everyday.  On January 3rd  she shares, '"Oh friend, let me assure you that no matter what changes are occurring in your life, in your job, in your family, in the nation there is always one stabilizing factor upon which you can rest: your God.  He is the immovable Rock.  You can hide in Him."'  Such inspiring words bring a hopeful start to each reader's morning.  If  you have been down and out, this book will bring you strength and courage.  Devotionals are awesome in that way, giving you enough to ponder on for  that day and than blessing your soul with something new on the next day.