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.

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.*

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:

Personal website

Goodreads

Twitter

Amazon

I’d Like You More If You Were More Like Me by John Ortberg

I’d Like You More If You Were More Like Me, written by author and Pastor John Ortberg, is a book that takes a look at having greater intimacy with God and with other people.

This is the first book written by John Ortberg that I have read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. He is very personal and humorous in his writing, and makes his points very clearly.

This book takes an honest and practical look at intimacy. So many good points were made, that I wish he had a chart at the end of the book summing up his main points, calls to action, etc.

If you have any questions about getting closer to God and to other people, I’d certainly recommend this book to you.

*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:

John Ortberg is the senior pastor at Menlo Church. John’s teaching centers around how faith in Christ can impact our everyday lives with God. He has written books on spiritual formation including, The Life You’ve Always Wanted, Who is This Man?, The Me I Want To Be, Soul Keeping, All The Places To Go, and most recently I’d Like You More If You Were More Like Me. John teaches around the world at conferences and churches.

If you'd like; feel free to learn more about John on his website: http://www.johnortberg.com/

The Genius of One by Greg Holder

The Genius of One, written by author and Pastor Greg Holder, is a book that looks at the biblical design of community, while offering leadership and guidance on how this community can be a reality for each of us.

I had never heard of Greg Holder before reading this book, but immediately enjoyed his writing style. He teaches clearly using interesting illustrations that connect with the reader, he’s personal and humorous, and the book flows well and makes sense.

The book is balanced. He doesn’t suggest community is following strict guidelines or that it has to look a specific way. He realizes we are all gifted and wired uniquely. Everybody that reads this book will come away with applications unique and personal to them.

I would recommend this book to anybody that wants to see greater unity and intimacy in the church, among Christians, and in the world as a whole.

It’s a great book that really does apply to everybody. Even if you don’t agree with every single thing he says, it’s a great conversation starter that offers hope that healing, reconciliation, and community are all possible. I’m thankful I had the opportunity to read it.

*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:

Greg is passionate about the local church and how God designed us to thrive in healthy community.  His leadership and influence has taken him around the globe, helping communities, churches, pastors and leaders work towards spiritual, relational, and physical health.

Feel free to learn more about Greg on his website

Quest for Celestia by Steven James

Quest for Celestia is a fascinating and highly motivating book. The book is a re-imagining of The Pilgrims’ Progress by John Bunyan, and thus an allegory of the Christian life.

The story is a compelling one taking place in a unique setting with plenty of surprises along the way. It’s a journey filled with high stakes action, humor, healthy romance, and lessons for all ages.

Though the story stands on its own, it’s a million times deeper with the allegory.

The first time I read the book, I will admit that I made the mistake of focusing too much on the allegory. I was so focused on trying to find the meaning of every scene, that I actually missed who the the allegorical representation of Christ was. I see how other readers could make the same mistake I made, and that’s why I included my experience in the review.

My advice on how to read this book is the advice of Leland Ryken. To quote him; “We will fare just fine with Bunyan’s allegorical story if we read it as a travel story and adventure story first, and then allow the theological and moral level to emerge as an extra source of enjoyment and edification.”

Despite my mix-up, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book my first time through, and much more on my second time. It was deeper and more clear the second time for me.

This is a book I will continue to read in the years to come. There are truths and principles in this book to review and come back to.

I would definitely recommend this book to fans of young adult fiction, fantasy, and to Christians of any age.

About the author:
Steven James is a national bestselling novelist whose award-winning, pulse-pounding thrillers continue to gain wide critical acclaim and a growing fan base.

Suspense Magazine, who named Steven’s book THE BISHOP their Book of the Year, says that he “sets the new standard in suspense writing.” Publishers Weekly calls him a “master storyteller at the peak of his game.” And RT Book Reviews promises, “the nail-biting suspense will rivet you.”

Equipped with a unique Master’s Degree in Storytelling, Steven has taught writing and storytelling on four continents over the past two decades, speaking more than two thousand times at events spanning the globe.

If you want to learn more about Steven, feel free to check out his website: http://www.stevenjames.net/

Little Bunny's Own Storybook by Margaret Welwood

Little Rabbit enjoys going to the library with his mom and dad daily, where he picks out an exciting new book to read. But what is he to do when the library is closed? Be ready to be encouraged to create your own storybook!

Little Bunny’s Own Storybook is a fun children’s book with lessons for the whole family. The drawings are charming and delightful, and the story is very cute and encouraging. All who read will be inspired to get their creative juices flowing.

It’s a lively and entertaining book that young kids will enjoy reading over and over. They will be motivated to use their imagination, have fun, and create something they’re proud of.

I enjoyed this book, and am sure many others also will.

*I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. No compensation was received.*

About the author:

An avid reader as a child, Margaret began her writing career by writing and editing adult non-fiction. Now, inspired by her imaginative grandchildren, she is writing picture books for children.

You can learn more about Margaret by visiting the following links:
Personal website
Twitter
Goodreads
Amazon

Marie and Mr. Bee by Margaret Welwood

Marie is a little girl enjoying life in her cabin in the woods. She has many forest friends, and enjoys playing with them after she has completed her housework. But one day, Mr. Bee, an uninvited visitor, tells her to neglect her work. What should Marie do?

Marie and Mr. Bee is a well written and beautifully illustrated book for children. The story flows well, and you care for the characters right from the moment you start reading. Marie’s animal friends are adorable, and the setting is sure to excite all who read.

This story is full of lessons for all ages. I believe you could read this book over and over, and find a new lesson, and something more to discuss, each time.

It truly is such a cute story, and children are sure to love it.

*I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. No compensation was received.*

About the author:

An avid reader as a child, Margaret began her writing career by writing and editing adult non-fiction. Now, inspired by her imaginative grandchildren, she is writing picture books for children.

You can learn more about Margaret by visiting the following links:
Personal website
Twitter
Goodreads
Amazon

Scissortown by Margaret Welwood

Welcome to Scissortown! A place where everything is neat and tidy, and all is going well. But look out, the Slicers and Dicers are on the way and ready to cause some trouble! How will the citizens of Scissortown respond?

Scissortown is a wonderfully written and beautifully illustrated book for children. This story will keep children engaged right from the first page to the last. The pictures are nice, the writing flows well, there are lessons for all ages, and it was also quite funny.

I enjoyed the book, and am sure many others also will.

*I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. No compensation was received.*

About the author:

An avid reader as a child, Margaret began her writing career by writing and editing adult non-fiction. Now, inspired by her imaginative grandchildren, she is writing picture books for children.

You can learn more about Margaret by visiting the following links:
Personal website
Twitter
Goodreads
Amazon

Fearless: The Undaunted Courage and Ultimate Sacrifice of Navy SEAL Team SIX Operator Adam Brown

Synopsis:

Growing up, Adam Brown started his life like many American boys. He loved taking risks, pursuing adventures, and playing football for his high school team. But when he died on March 17, 2010 in the Hindu Kush Mountains of Afghanistan, he had become a man who served his country with excellence as an elite warrior and leader. Fearless by Eric Blehm is a tribute to the life and legacy of Navy SEAL Team SIX Operator Adam Brown.

As a young man, Adam always tried to honor his family, but there was a time when it seemed that his life might take a downward turn. Lacking purpose after high school, Adam fell in with the wrong crowd and became addicted to drugs, landing himself in jail. Taking the wake-up call to turn his life around, Adam began to search for meaning. He found it in giving his life to Jesus Christ, finding the love of his life, Kelly, and in the dream to become a Navy SEAL.

Adam's determination and hard work propelled him to reach higher and higher until his dream of becoming a Navy Seal was realized. Even after reaching his goal, Adam was always the first to volunteer for the most dangerous assignments. His final act of bravery led to the ultimate sacrifice, and the devoted family man and soldier was killed in action. Fearless is an unforgettable tale of a true American hero--a man of courage and daring who gave his all in service to his country.          CBD product description

Review:

This was a terrific book I genuinely enjoyed. Adam’s story is very well told, and you get an honest look into his life and struggles. You also get to see what an impact he had on the people around him. He’s someone you relate to and root for.

The book wasn’t preachy, but had a lot of lessons that jump out at you as you read. Just a few of the things that stood out to me were how hard Adam worked, how he cared for his wife, and what a fun dad he was.

I’d highly recommend this book to fathers and young adults. A father may want to read through the book first before giving it to their son, as an honest look is taken at drug addiction. It’s not too graphic, but it is honest.

It was amazing being able to read Adam’s story, and I’m so thankful I got the opportunity.

5 out of 5 stars

Author:

Eric Blehm is a bestselling and award-winning author of nonfiction books.

In 2006, Eric Blehm won the Barnes & Noble Discover Award for The Last Season (HarperCollins), a gripping account of the disappearance of legendary National Park Service ranger Randy Morgenson; The Last Season was also named by Outside magazine as one of the ten “greatest adventure biographies ever written” in 2009. Eric Blehm’s next book, New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller The Only Thing Worth Dying For (HarperCollins, 2010), was hailed by former congressman Charlie Wilson, of Charlie Wilson’s War, as a “must read” among books about the current war in Afghanistan.

In 1999, Eric Blehm became the first journalist to accompany and keep pace with an elite Army Ranger unit on a training mission. His access into the Special Operations community and reportage set an important milestone for American war journalism two years before reporters began to gain widespread embedded status with the U.S. military in the War Against Terror. Blehm’s immersion with the Rangers is what led him to the previously untold story of an elite team of eleven Green Berets who operated in the hinterland of Taliban-held Afghanistan just weeks after 9/11 (The Only Thing Worth Dying For), as well as to his current book: FEARLESS (Waterbrook/Multnomah; Random House). On sale in May 2012, Fearless is the heartrending and inspiring story of Naval Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Adam Brown, who overcame tremendous odds in his rise to the top tier of the U.S. military: SEAL Team SIX.

Eric Blehm is the founder of Molly the Owl Books, the independent publishing company behind Molly the Owl—his popular nonfiction children’s book about a barn owl and her family—which won the 2011 Nautilus Award and the 2011 San Diego Book Award. Currently, he is working on his next nonfiction book, which takes place during the Cold War era.

Blehm lives in Southern California with his wife and children.

Without Warning by Joel Rosenberg

Without Warning is the third book book in a series of political thrillers by author Joel Rosenberg.

The novel set-up sees J.B. Collins, a New York Times foreign correspondent, disagreeing with the US president’s tactics in the fight against ISIS. There is already much conflict within the Middle East, and danger looms inside America. J.B. sees the only solution to this conflict as an all-out manhunt for the leader of ISIS; Abu Kahlif. But will the president listen to Collins or act before it’s too late?

I had been quite excited to read this book, but found it took a while for me to connect with the characters. I believe a lot of this had to do with not having read the first 2 books of the series. I never felt a genuine connection with the characters until much later in the book. The first 2 books set the framework for this one, and you will get a lot more out of this book by having read the first 2. (The Third Target and The First Hostage.)

I still did enjoy parts of this book, particularly watching J.B. Collins’ character development. It took me a while to connect with Collins’ character, but the further I got into the novel, the more I cheered for him. 

The book had a lot of details and exposition, as well as many different characters. This will suit some readers and turn others off. In the same way, there is a lot of politics, which will suit some readers and turn others off. Regardless, those who enjoy political thrillers will likely enjoy this book. I would still recommend reading the first 2 books of this series before picking this one up.

All in all, there were some nice moments to this book with some good lessons. Much value was placed on family, and the integration of faith was also quite powerful. At the end of the day, I can say I’m thankful I got to read this book. Fans of political thrillers will surely enjoy it.

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

Joel C. Rosenberg (www.joelrosenberg.com) is a New York Times bestselling author of 12 novels and five nonfiction books, with more than 3 million copies sold.

He has been interviewed on hundreds of radio and TV shows, including ABC's Nightline, CNN, CNN Headline News, C-SPAN, Fox News, MSNBC, The History Channel, The Rush Limbaugh Show, The Sean Hannity Show, and The Glenn Beck Show. His articles and columns have been published by National Review,FoxNews.com, CNN.com, the Jerusalem Post, World magazine, and the Washington Times, among others. He has been profiled by the New York Times, the Washington Times, and the Jerusalem Post.

Joel has spoken to audiences and met with religious and government leaders all across the U.S. and Canada and around the world, including Israel, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, the UAE, Turkey, Afghanistan, Russia, Germany, France, Belgium, Italy, India, South Korea, and the Philippines. He has also addressed audiences at the White House and the Pentagon, addressed members of Congress on Capitol Hill, members of the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa, and a conference held at the European Union Parliament in Brussels.

He is the founder and chairman of The Joshua Fund (www.joshuafund.com), a nonprofit educational and charitable organization he and his wife launched in 2006 to mobilize Christians to "bless Israel and her neighbors in the name of Jesus, according to Genesis 12:1-3."

Maybe It's You by Candace Calvert

“Maybe It’s You,” is a romantic suspense novel, and the third book in the Crisis Team series by author Candace Calvert. I have not read the previous 2 books, but can say that I enjoyed this one very much.

Sloane Ferrell is an ER nurse, and is seeking to have a fresh start in life with her new job and name in Los Angeles. Anonymity is of utmost importance to Sloane, and she does whatever she can to keep people at a safe distance; and more importantly: to keep her past as far away as possible.

Each time I sat down to read this novel; I was always excited to see what would happen. The characters are likeable, there’s plenty of conflict, lots of tension, an honest romance, and many twists and turns that’ll keep you reading.

The story took a lot of time to set-up and perhaps didn’t have the major payoff ending I anticipated, but there were plenty of lessons and takeaways from reading; particularly on God’s love, grace, and forgiveness.

I enjoyed this novel and know that many others will as well.

Candace Calvert is a former ER nurse and author of the Mercy Hospital, Grace Medical, and Crisis Team series. Her medical dramas offer readers a chance to "scrub in" on the exciting world of emergency medicine. Wife, mother, and very proud grandmother, Candace makes her home in northern California. Please visit her website at www.candacecalvert.com.

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

Snowboard Showdown by Matt Christopher

Synopsis:

Out-of-control competition leads to disaster. When Freddie Ruiz and his brother, Dondi, compete, it's like two mutts wrestling over the same bone-neither one is willing to give an inch. Unfortunately for Freddie, older, stronger, better-looking Dondi usually comes out on top in every contest. Except in one area: snowboarding. Here, Freddie is clearly king of the halfpipe. So when Dondi finally pushes Freddie too far, Freddie cooks up a snowboard showdown to make Dondi look foolish and himself the star. But will Dondi take the bait, or will he somehow turn the tables on his brother yet again?

Product description; Goodreads

What did I think?

The book is full of conflict and competition sure to entertain young readers, but I did have some concerns with as to whether or not I could recommend it.

There are 2 storylines that drive this book:

1.         Freddie’s competition and rivalry with his brother Dondi.

2.         Freddie trying to impress a girl.

There is a lot of anger and fighting in this book between the brothers, and the conclusion seems to be that this is normal between brothers. I don’t think that’s great advice.

Freddie desired to impress a girl whom his brother Dondi has taken an interest in, and Freddie will do whatever he sees necessary to accomplish this.

You can’t expect great maturity from a young guy in grade 7, but Freddie did not prove to be a great example for the kids reading this book I don’t think.

There are some redeemable aspects to this book such as Freddie’s father being involved in helping Freddie on his journey, the value of good friendship, and showing initiative from kids to work hard for something.

Saying all of this, I struggle with a recommendation. The book might connect with a kid in grade 7, but having a heated rivalry between brothers and desiring a girl because she looks good isn’t something I can recommend.

Author:

Matt Christopher is the writer young readers turn to when they're looking for fast-paced, action-packed sports novels. He is the best-selling author of more than one hundred sports books for young readers.

You can learn more about Matt Christopher at his website.

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

Synopsis:

A loving threesome, they ranged the dark hills and river bottoms of Cherokee country. Old Dan had the brawn, Little Ann had the brains -- and Billy had the will to train them to be the finest hunting team in the valley. Glory and victory were coming to them, but sadness waited too.

Recommended for ages 10+.

Product description; Christianbook.com

What did I think?

Where the Red Fern Grows was one of the first novels read to me; and was immediately a favorite. Years later, I am still impressed by the story.

Not only am I impressed by the story, but I am more impressed with how faith in God is included in this novel. I never took notice of Billy Colman’s prayers or the prayers of his mama the first time it was read to me.

I believe this book is best if it is read by a parent to their children over a long period of time. I don’t find it’s a typical novel that makes you flip page after page, but you are still interested to see how the story will play out. A chapter a day with your kids could be just great.

There are great lessons in this book for people of all ages. It’s possible some people won’t be interested in the middle of the book where we see Billy’s hunting adventures, but if  a kid’s parent is reading the book; they’ll enjoy it. 

There are lessons that will last for life. What an endearing story it is.

Author:

Wilson Rawls grew up on a small farm in the Ozark Mountains of Oklahoma. There were no schools where he lived so his mother taught Rawls and his sisters how to read and write. He says that reading the book The Call of the Wild changed his life and gave him the notion that he would like to grow up to write a book like it. He shared his dream with his father, and his father gave him the encouraging advice, "Son, a man can do anything he sets out to do, if he doesn't give up." Rawls never forgot his father's words, and went on to create two novels about his boyhood that have become modern classics.

You can buy Where the Red Fern Grows at Christianbook.com

Rebel Glory by Sigmund Brouwer

Synopsis:

At 17, star defenseman Craig McElhaney likes his chances of making it as a pro hockey player. Yet, a string of recent "accidents" threatens to knock his team out of the playoffs and ruin his promising career. Craig has begun to question how many "accidents" can happen before they become more than a coincidence. But it's not a good time for questions. Not in the spotlight of high-pressure hockey. Not when the team needs him most. And not when he has some important lessons to learn about life. For Craig, however, there is no choice. Unless the questions are answered, the team's season and his promising career will surely end.

Product description; Orca Books.

What did I think?

I remember reading Rebel Glory when I was in elementary school and doing my first ever book report on it. It was a great book that contributed to my love for reading. 

As a kid I focused on the hockey aspect of the book a lot, but realize now that the mystery in the book was very captivating.

I highly recommend this book to your hockey loving kids.

About the author:

Sigmund is married to songwriter recording artist Cindy Morgan. The couple and their two young daughters divide their time between Red Deer, Alberta and Nashville, Tennessee. As a novelist, Sigmund loves going to schools to get kids excited about reading, reaching roughly 80,000 students a year through his Rock&Roll Literacy Show.

If you want to learn more about Sigmund, check out his website.

Chief Honor by Sigmund Brouwer

Synopsis:

Lauren Cross is the first female player on a WHL team—goaltender Joseph Larken's team, the Spokane Chiefs. For Joseph, the prospect of a season in the publicity shadow of a new female goalie promises to be a nightmare. Hiding behind a carefully built wall of anger, Joseph is relieved when a scandal knocks Lauren off the team until he begins to believe she was framed. 

Product description; Orca Books.

What did I think?

Chief Honor might’ve been my favorite book growing up. Any young hockey player would love this book (along with the rest of the Lightning on Ice series).

You will be entertained by some hockey action, and quite the mystery that must be solved. Brouwer does a great job integrating back story into this book, and also has some great, non-preachy points on faith.

I highly recommend this book to your hockey loving kids. I’m an adult and I still enjoy reading this book. It’s truly a great read.

About the author:

Sigmund is married to songwriter recording artist Cindy Morgan. The couple and their two young daughters divide their time between Red Deer, Alberta and Nashville, Tennessee. As a novelist, Sigmund loves going to schools to get kids excited about reading, reaching roughly 80,000 students a year through his Rock&Roll Literacy Show.

If you want to learn more about Sigmund, check out his website.

Good Call: Reflections on Faith, Family, and Fowl by Jase Robertson

Synopsis:

The straight-faced funnyman of Duck Dynasty has his own story to tell---from his first "fake date" with Missy to frog hunting! Tying lessons of faith to his personal experiences, Robertson opens up about his life, pointing out what worked and what didn't---so that you can find the courage and strength to overcome the challenges in your life. 256 pages, hardcover from Howard.

                   

CBD product description

What did I think?

Good Call is a great read. You get to learn a lot about Jase Robertson’s life, and will also be encouraged as you see examples of him living out his faith.

The book ranges Jase's entire life in an honest and true way. You see the trials that Jase and the Robertson family have gone through to get where they are. You get lots of funny stories and learn a lot about Jase, but most of all you see a man trying to live for Christ and bring Him glory in the way God has gifted him.

The book is an entertaining and meaningful read, and I plan to read it many more times. I was encouraged by seeing how Jase has lived out his faith to this point in his life, and I’m sure you would be as well.

Rating: 9 out of 10

Authors

Jase Robertson is the second oldest Robertson son and one of the favorite stars of A&E®’s Duck Dynasty®. Jase has been involved in the family business making duck calls since he was a boy. He graduated from Bible college after high school and worked part-time in ministry for two years before becoming Duck Commander’s first paid employee in the mid ‘90s. Now, family, hunting, and helping the family business succeed consume most of Jase’s time. Jase runs the manufacturing part of Duck Commander, making sure that every call is hand-tuned to be the best possible call. He and his wife, Missy, live in West Monroe, Louisiana, with their children and the rest of the Robertson clan.

You can follow Jase on twitter

Mark Schlabach is the coauthor of the New York Times bestselling books, Happy, Happy, Happy, Si-cology 1, and The Duck Commander Family. He is one of the most respected and popular college football columnists in the country. He and his wife live in Madison, Georgia, with their three children.

You can follow Mark on twitter

You can buy Good Call on CBD

Quiet Strength by Tony Dungy with Nathan Whitaker

Setup:

“In  the pages of this fascinating memoir, Tony Dungy reveals the secrets to his success­-principles, practices, and priorities that have kept him on track despite overwhelming obstacles, including firings, stereotyping, and the tragic loss of a child. His thoughts on leading, succeeding, and attaining true significance will inspire you to take a long hard look at the things that really matter in your own life.” Quiet Strength, Back cover

What did I think?

Quiet Strength is a great read. I’ve read this book many times over the past few years, and each time it is more enlightening.

It is great to be able to look at the story of Tony’s life, and learn from it. You will get a chance to learn a lot of lessons about integrity, respect, and hard work. 

The book is very interesting for sport fans, as they get to learn a bit about Tony’s coaching philosophy, but I enjoyed seeing Tony live out his faith in these moments of trials the most.

            This book was an encouragement to me to be a better man and work harder for the glory of Christ. I’d highly recommend it. 

Tony Dungy was a long tenured NFL coach with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Indianapolis colts; winning the Super Bowl in 2007.

To learn more about Tony Dungy, check out his website.

Nathan Whitaker is a Harvard Law Graduate whose firm represents NFL and college coaches and administrators.

To learn more about Nathan Whitaker, check out his website.

Feel free to buy Quiet Strength on Amazon.

The Rook by Steven James

Setup:

“While investigating a series of baffling fires in Dan Diego, Special Agent Patrick Bowers is drawn into a deadly web of intrigue where nothing is as it appears to be. With a character on the loose and one of the world’s most deadly devices missing, Bowers is caught in a race against time to stop a criminal mastermind’s trap before it closes around the people he loves.”        The Rook, Steven James, back cover

What did I think?

The Rook, was a good follow up to author Steven James’ first book in this series, The Pawn.

It’s amazing how James keeps you on the edge of your seat for the entire novel. I couldn’t put it down, and kept flipping pages into the late hours of the night.

It’s such an interesting mystery, but we see the personal struggles of Special Agent Patrick Bowers, and other characters throughout the novel.

A lot of truth is spoken in this book, to go along with a lot of big questions being asked by the characters. It might make you think about some questions in your own life.

The Rook, was engaging, intriguing, and exciting. James put a lot of work into this novel, and if you’re a fan of suspense, thriller, or mystery novels; this one is for you.

Rating: 8.3 out of 10

 Steven James is a critically acclaimed author and award-winning storyteller. He has written many collections of short fiction, scripts, and inspirational books that explore the paradox of good and evil. 

To find out more about James, please visit http://www.stevenjames.net/