A Day In Your Presence: A 40-Day Journey in the Company of Francis of Assisi

It's been a long time since I reviewed anything I've been reading, but this book has really challenged and encouraged me. Assisi's heart for God and his commitment to having a clear conscience before God are amazing. He believes in seeking God. He encourages repentance. He speaks truth clearly as he quotes scripture constantly.

Assisi knows what it is to sit quietly in God's presence, and he helps me to do so. However, this is a very reflective book, in my opinion, so if you don't have time to reflect, it might not be worth reading. On the other hand, if you want to seek the presence of God, this could be a huge blessing to you!

Spiritual Rhythms: Being with Jesus Every Season of Your Soul by Mark Buchanan

"Spiritual Rhythms" by Mark Buchanan was a book I loved! It challenged and encouraged me. It made me see life a bit differently as I pondered the inevitable changes that come with living and growth. Buchanan discusses how life is a seasonal, how things always change, and the seasons of our soul resemble the seasons of the year.

One of the things that really hit me when I read this book was that not only do we reap what we sow, we reap more than what we sow. A little love turns into lots of love, while a little envy grows into very fractures relationships.

Buchanan is good at pulling life apart, explaining things, then helping us see how to work WITH what's happening instead of against it. He gives good advice while refraining from "preaching".

I've always enjoyed Buchanan's writing, and this book was no exception. I love his flair for storytelling and how it helps me remember the points he's trying to make. His words are well-chosen, his meaning clear. The prose makes it easy to keep reading while the content makes me want to do so.

Recommend :)

A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park

I read "A Single Shard" by Linda Sue Park aloud to Kevin when he was younger, and just recently read it to Kaleb. It's a great book, with a strong story line and great cultural content. The story is set in Korea and follows the journey of a young homeless boy who eventually becomes a potter. It teaches the value of perseverance and hard work. It shows the value of doing something excellently, not just "good enough" or "well".

The characters in story are well-developed. As they become personal friends through the pages of this book, you find yourself moved by their adventures and misadventures.

The book also discusses celadon pottery, and the painstaking work it took to create a masterpiece. Reading a story like this is a great way to give kids an understanding of the art of pottery making.

This book is aimed at children ages 8-12, and that seems like a good range to me. However, if you read it aloud to your children or siblings, you as an adult will also be impacted by the story!

"Who Switched Off My Brain" by Dr. Caroline Leaf

I just started this book a few days ago, and I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to better understand the power of the mind. Dr. Leaf is a Christian who studies the brain's interaction with the rest of the body-- our emotions, physical body, and choices. It is amazing to see science confirm what the Bible has said for ages, that the heart is the wellspring of life and we can be conformed to the image of Christ as we renew our minds.

After walking you through the science she's studied and giving clear illustrations of where various things happen, Dr Leaf moves on to practically changing your mind. The exercises she recommends are simple and practical and help YOU take a look at what you're really thinking. And after you discover what you're thinking, you go through a process of renewing your mind and changing your thoughts.

I believe this book would be helpful to parents as they encourage their children to stand on the truth and make wise choices. It would encourage those who feel trapped by the past or held hostage by bitterness. In fact, all of us who live in a fallen world would benefit from an understanding of the things presented in these chapters.

If you sense toxicity in your life, check out this book and see if it helps you rediscover hope and courage.

New Blog

So, I'm going to review some of the books I'm reading. I'm a homeschooling mom who loves to read, cook, organize, and write. Enjoy checking out the books I'm reading!