Spirit Fighter: Jerel Law

If you are a fan of Percy Jackson, you will love Spirit Fighter. Our hero, like Percy, is a normal teenager with normal issues. One day, each discovers that they aren't so normal. Jonah's normal existence is turned upside down when he learns that he is part angel with super human powers. To compound this matter, his mother has been kidnapped and he must rescue her. With Elohim by his side, Jonah and his sister embark on an epic journey to rescue the mother and save the world from evil. This is a great book for teens and adults who love adventure.

Simple Secrets to a Happy Life Lucy Swindoll

Lucy Swindoll has the wisdom of a grandmother. If my grandmother were still alive, she would probably have given me the same sage advice as in "Secrets". While the "secrets" are common sense (for those who have been blessed with a good family and religious experiences) it is also good to have a reminder on how one can live a happy life. For example, I get caught up in fairness and equality. When I am wronged, I carry bitterness. I needed a reminder to let that go. I also needed to be reminded to "slow down" and "do for others" in other words, "make time".

While the secrets are sensible, in this fast paced "me world", a reminder is necessary every now and again. Swindoll's conversational tone is just that, a calm reminder not a command. Something a grandmother would say.

Stand by Me: Neta James

Stand by Me is a fantastic read that is difficult to put aside. First, the characters are very realistic. I, personally, could connect to most of the characters. Avis, the main character, goes through several struggles (external and internal) yet holds onto her faith with a vengence. If only all of us could do that. Kat, the other primary character, is so full of vigor and excited in her new faith. A new born Christian, Kat is bubbling over with ideas to help others. Sometimes she gets a little ahead of herself, which reminds me of myself on occasion.

Stand by Me grabs the reader and hangs on til the end. I surely hope a sequal is in the works: SOON!

Then Sings My Soul Book 3

This book is very interesting. Robert Morgan is not only a great historian and researcher, he is a fantastic storyteller. Each hymn is a classic and each story is a maserfully written. Then Sings My Soul Book 3 was so interesting that I gave it as a gift to my father-in-law. As a song leader, he loves to tell background stories of his chosen hymns.

Then Sings My Soul: history and music, a winning combination.

A Year With Jesus

A Year with Jesus is a must have for everyone who needs a bit of wisdom and peace to make it through the day. R.P Nettelhost's reflections help guide the reader and offers a calm reassurance of Jesus's love and interest in our lives. I use the book as a peaceful end to a stressful day. I open it randomly and it seems to fall open to the page that I need the most. I found each passage helped explain my day and help me understand my failings. The passages confirmed my feelings and encouraged me.

Whether you use it as a daily reader or randomly (as I did), A Year with Jesus is a valuable asset.

The Encounter by Stephen Arterburn

The Encounter by Stephen Arterburn is a pretty good read. The writing style of having each chapter focus on the thoughts and actions of one primary character helps move the plot along nicely. The author's characters are believable. The reader can form connections with the characters quite easily. For example, the character of Jonathon Rush is compelled to overcome a lifelong struggle. How many of us can say we have struggled in the past. How many of us have something that we need to over come.

The Encounter helps guide the reader through personal issues with Jonathon Rush as a model. This is a book that is interesting and helpful. It is a recommended read.

Heaven is for Real

"Heaven is for Real" truly makes a person think about heaven. Is it real? Does God and Jesus really exist? These simple questions are answered by a young child whose innocence is devoid of skepticism. As the read ponders these basic questions, the story gives much credence and evidence for the child's experiences.

Did he see Heaven? Did he meet Jesus? He has the childlike faith that all followers are supposed to have. I believe that if we became more childlike, we would also see his Heaven.

A compelling book that makes one think: Is Heaven for real? Maybe.