Thursday 26 April 2018

42 Seconds by Carl Medearis


42 Seconds is a book attempting to look at the interactions of Jesus' life in order that the readers will learn how to interact with others like He did. The book is broken down into four sections, with 5 quick and easy to read chapters per section.

The heart of this book is what appealed to me. I was eager to learn how one could better represent Jesus and be like Him in everyday life. There certainly are some good points made throughout this book, but I don't think it will connect with most believers.

After reading this book, I don't agree with this book's mantra as "The Jesus Model for Everyday Interactions." Rather, I have to view this book as Carl's personal testimony and his action plan for conversations and living that was was inspired by his interpretation of Jesus. I feel like he is putting words into Jesus' mouth with this book and has not taken the whole scriptures into account. 

I still enjoyed reading parts of this book, but readers involved in social justice work would benefit from it the most.

*Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. The review was my honest opinion. No compensation was received.*

About the author:
Carl Medearis is an international expert in Arab-American and Muslim-Christian relations, promoting peacemaking and cultural, political, and religious dialog for reconciliation. Carl is the author of Speaking of Jesus: The Art of Non-Evangelism, and Muslims, Christians, and Jesus: Gaining Understanding and Building Relationships, and Tea With Hezbollah: Sitting at the Enemies Table. Carl, his wife, Chris, have three kids and live in Colorado.

You can learn more about Carl at his website.



Wednesday 4 April 2018

Ready or Not by Drew Moser and Jess Fankhauser

Ready or Not takes a look at what living faithfully in our twenties looks like. The book explores an intriguing definition of vocation; and has chapters focusing on personal spiritual growth, work, church, family, and community.

This is a good book that chronicles a lot of truths into one place. As an individual currently in my twenties; I really connected with this book and enjoyed reading it.

It's possible you could read this book and know what you want to do with your life, but even if there isn't an epiphany moment; it's a well written book that can be a conversation starter and jumping off point for living in your twenties. The authors don't claim to have all of the answers, but they do a good job in their presentation.

I definitely recommend this to fellow twenty-somethings. I'll be sure to go read it again.

Authors:
Drew Moser is the codirector of the Vocation in College Project. Drew is dean of experiential learning and associate professor of higher education at Taylor University. He co-leads the Fathom Experience, a one-day interactive exploration of calling for twenty-somethings offered all over the United States.

Jess Fankhauser is the codirector of the Vocation in College Project. Jess has spent her entire professional career teaching, researching, and working with college students and twenty somethings. The former director of vocation formation at Taylor, she currently serves as the university's assistant athletic director. She co-leads the Fathom Experience, a one-day interactive exploration of calling for twenty-somethings offered all over the United States.

*Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. The review was my honest opinion. No compensation was received.*

Monday 26 February 2018

Branwen's Quest by Kaetlyn Buxton

Young Branwen, filled with guilt from her past and dreading her future, is summoned by the royal herald for a Tournament of Warriors. A talented archer; she wins her discipline and is sent on a dangerous quest with 3 other champions. The implications of the success of their journey affect the welfare of the kingdom!

I really enjoyed this book. The characters were relatable and I connected with them early on. There was tension and conflict and twists along their quest that drove the plot and character development along.

Kids will love this book. This will be an epic journey for them. I find kids want to dream and be part of a larger story. They want to go on a quest. And this story will connect with kids like that.

I think 10 years old would be a good starter age to read this book. I also think it’d be a great book for parents to read aloud to their children.

As a twenty-something guy; I enjoyed sitting down and reading this book. Kids will enjoy it even more.

* The author offered a free download of this book. This is my honest review. No compensation was received. *

About the author:
Born, raised, and homeschooled in Oregon, Katelyn Buxton has always been a storyteller, picking up writing during her early teen years. When she graduated high school, her love of the craft finally culminated in the publishing of her first eBook, a standalone adventure, Tè Nan Lezar. Since then she has published seven more books belonging to the Warriors of Aralan series, with many more on the way. Katelyn is a Christian, and her passion is to write stories that are not just enjoyable to read, but lead people to Jesus. 

You can learn more about Kaetlyn by visiting the following links:
Amazon