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!