“The Essential Andrew Murray Collection: Humility; Abiding In Christ; Living A Prayerful Life”

Posted on January 10, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Want a Better Life? Try This!

This is a collection of three classic Christian books that will improve your life.

Humility–The way to get closer to God is to have more humility in your life. This is achieved by being dependent on God, the more you are able to do this, the better your life will be. Forget yourself, instead lean on God and His direction.

Pride is the opposite of humility; it is the root of every sin and evil. If you are in a state of pride, you will be far from God. Pride is what led the angels to become fallen, and satan’s pride led him to tempt Adam and Eve. Turn from selfish pursuits and fill yourself with Christ’s grace instead.

Abiding in Christ–Do you feel less connected to God than you did in your early days of salvation? Are you disappointed that the blessings you once had are gone? It may mean that you have not abided in Him as referenced in John 15:1-12, more specifically, John 15:4:

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.”

This thirty-one-day devotional will restore those things and more. In addition to following each day’s devotion, you must also take time to grow with the Lord. Spend time daily purposely turning your life over to God so that He can work in you. Do this, and watch the improvements that take place!

Living A Prayerful Life–If you want to improve your prayer life, or feel like your prayer life is not what it should be, read this book. There are lots of suggestions and pointers here that will improve that. Also included are insights from other great prayer warriors that will help you become one, too.

Together, these books will provide blessings and improvements in your spiritual life and walk with God. Although written over a century ago, the language has been updated for today’s readers. This 5-star book is recommended to everyone who wants a life more abundant filled with blessings and peace.

Bethany House Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Essential Andrew Murray Collection, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water” by Erin Bartels

Posted on January 8, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Friendship & Dangerous Complications

Young adult, Kendra, has written her first novel. It has been highly acclaimed, is very popular, and is a thinly veiled story about herself.

Kendra has suffered from writer’s block ever since receiving a note criticizing her book. She has convinced herself that it will lift if she writes at the remote lake where everything took place.

But removing that writer’s block is more complicated than that.

At first, she remembers the idyllic childhood friendship she had with Cami–that was ruined by the adoption of a much older brother. Despite being closer than sisters, the two have not spoken for years, and Cami is missing.

As Kendra delves into this, she finds she must face her long ago attacker. At the same time, she makes surprising discoveries about her parentage, and Cami’s feelings.

This is a difficult story to read, with an uncomfortable story-line that includes a traumatic attack, stolen virginity, and sexual abuse. Be warned, this tale is only for adults, or very mature teenagers. God is mentioned very little in this publication from a Christian House. I recommend this story only to those who would not be disturbed by the topic. Although it is a difficult subject, it is not graphic, and is a 5-star work.

Revell has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water, for the purpose of review.   I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ErinBartelsAuthor/

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/erinbartelswrites/

The Author’s Website:  https://erinbartels.com

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Give it to God and Go to Bed” by Laura Harris Smith

Posted on January 4, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Oh Mr. Sandman…..

Do you have trouble sleeping, are you tired all the time? Ms. Smith states that stress is at the bottom of most of our troubles, and if it isn’t addressed, no end of physical and emotional problems will be the result. She knows what she is talking about because she suffered horribly from years of little sleep.

The author states that three things are responsible for most of our problems: stress, work, and worry. When these things are addressed, our life will turn around. She advises giving the things that have you stressed over to God, quit working at a reasonable time, and make yourself go to bed.

This book is devoted to telling you how to change your life for the good. The author states that if you follow her advice, your life will improve physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Changing will be a lot of work, but if God is included, your healing will come about much sooner.

I think a plan to reduce stress in our lives is very important, so following the suggestions of Ms. Smith may be the way to make life changes. The one thing I know for certain is that inviting God to help in all areas of our life is absolutely something that can bring positive change. You must decide, or try for yourself, the author’s other suggestions. She writes from a charismatic point of view. I recommend this 5-star book to those wanting to improve their lifestyle, feel better, and get rest.

Chosen Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Give it to God and Go to Bed,” for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The Whole Bible Story: Everything that Happens in the Bible” by Dr. William H. Marty

Posted on January 4, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Easy to Understand Biblical Epic!

This is the entire Biblical account told in story form using today’s language and references. It is not a chapter and verse Bible, but something to give older children an idea of what is in the Bible. It is geared toward getting their attention, and does a very good job of it. In that vein, they state attention grabbing facts such as the first couple, Adam and Eve, ran around naked.

This book divides the Biblical account into nineteen sections. There are three areas at the beginning of each section that are made to appeal to young people. They tell the important people to look for, what part of the world that it takes place in, and interesting things that happen.

At the end of each section, there is an area called, “What’s The Point.” This contains short, easy to understand summaries of what was just read, and brings the content into sharper focus. There are lots of illustrations that bring even more of the story to life.

I think this is loaded with kid appeal, and a child who reads this will have a good working knowledge of the Bible. I also think it will wet their appetite to read the actual Bible–I would recommend getting an easy-to-understand translation or an amplified version. Children ages nine through fourteen will enjoy this 5-star book.

Bethany House Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “The Whole Bible Story: Everything that Happens in the Bible,” for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“3-Minute Devotions to Laugh and Reflect: Lighten Your Load and Brighten Your Day” by Christopher D. Hudson

Posted on January 3, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

90 Days of Laughter & God’s Love!

Ready for a devotion this is short, and can be read in just a couple of minutes? How about enjoying a cartoon with it that relates to the subject, done in a way that will make you chuckle, but without being irrespective of God? If that sounds good, this is the book for you–concise devotions that barely take any time.

But think again if you believe short and funny equals light and pointless. These little devotions, with a comic twist, contain real spiritual meat. Despite their brevity, words are not minced about unacceptable behaviors, beliefs, or sin. Keeping it short, the author gets right to the heart of the matter, and doesn’t beat around the bush.

You will find ninety devotions that range from enticements to excuses to fasting (stomach trouble), plus eighty-seven more that will surely grab your interest.

Just as we were advised years ago by the wise Mary Poppins, “a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down,” so, too, can humor help God’s truths easily go down into our hearts. I recommend this 5-star book to everyone who wants to go deeper into God’s word in an uncomplicated way.

Bethany House Publishers has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “3-Minute Devotions to Laugh and Reflect: Lighten Your Load and Brighten Your Day,” for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Christopher.D.Hudson.books

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ReadEngageApply

The Author’s Website:  http://www.readengageapply.com/?fbclid=IwAR12l6ED0_KKy0OQTbG-JPjVZ9tKsfPZ4-vbZ0VIfVltjlTqTogUh4ZCud8

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame

Posted on January 3, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Everyone Must Meet Mr. Toad!

Illustrated by Grahame Baker Smith

Come along with Mr. Toad while he gets into one situation after another while dragging along his friends, Badger, Ratty, and Mole.  Things both hair-raising and funny happen to the group, but under everything, is friendship that survives it all. Although written over 100 years ago, these stories will charm you, and your youngster alike.  This is a great classic children’s story that has stood the test of time, and is as beloved as ever.  There is even a ride in Disneyland that is loosely based on Mr. Toad and his adventures.

If you have never met Mr. Toad and friends, prepare to be enchanted.  If you have, prepare to be amazed by this attractive hard-backed volume.  The cover of this edition contains an eye-catching, beautifully embossed illustration with golden highlights—pictures do not do it justice, or capture its appeal.

Even if you have this book, you will want this volume.  This beautiful publication will take your breath away.  Inside are both colorful and monochromatic pictures that add charm to the story, while the book itself feels wonderful in your hands.  Children ages 10 and up, including adults, will enjoy this book!

Candlewick Press has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, The Wind in the Willows, for the purpose of review.   I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Never Leave Me” by Jody Hedlund

Posted on December 18, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time After Time!

Prepare yourself for time travel, and a cure for diseases that is so incredible that no one believes it–except for rival pharmaceuticals that will kill to get it.

Despite being beautiful, young, and well-off financially, Ellen Creighton has an incurable disease, and she is so weak, death is very close. Harrison Burlington, a paraplegic, has loved her for years, although he has never told her. He has searched the world over to find help for her.

The cure he has is far-fetched, and secret. But after trying it on himself, he gives it to her as a last resort–and their world changes. Not only do both of them get better, they are now being hunted by a drug company that will stop at nothing to get more of it.

But getting more will involve of all things, traveling through time. Although Ellen’s sister, Marian, and her father claimed the ability existed, Ellen didn’t believe them. Now both her sister and father are dead, or are they? Harrison claims the two are not dead, but have traveled back in time. Will Ellen find out the truth about time travel, or is it just hopeful thinking?

This book is exciting, full of twists and turns, modern day problems, and those of the middle-ages, too. There are killers, kidnappers, and surprise reunions. Plus, there is the realization, and then loss, of love.

Volume two in, “The Waters of Time,” series, this story can stand on its own.  But it will be a richer experience if you read the first book. You will like this page-turning tale. I recommend this five-star book to those who like exciting stories with almost unthinkable outcomes–all from a faith perspective!

The Library Thing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Never Leave Me, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJodyHedlund

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/JodyHedlund

The Author’s Website:  http://jodyhedlund.com/

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The Giving Manger: A Christmas Family Tradition Kit” by Allison Hottinger

Posted on December 12, 2021 by WordPress.com Support


Interactively Celebrating Christmas!

Illustrated by Emily King

This Christmas, things will be different. So, dad tells his children, Anne and Ben. He then shows them an empty manger, a small bundle of hay and reads Mathew 25:40 b:

“Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

That means doing good thing for others is like doing it for Jesus, it is a gift to Him. This year, family members will concentrate on doing for others. Every time as service is done, a piece of straw will be put in the empty manger.

The Christ child figure will not be put in the manger until Christmas Day, when hopefully, there will be lots of straw to cushion Him. They will give gifts to Jesus by serving others without expecting anything in return.

At first, Anne and Ben do not like this idea. But then, Anne is surprised to find a number of pieces of straw in the manger because her mom did Anne’s chores for her. She is so touched by it, that Anne does some good deeds for Ben.

They discover the joy the comes from helping others. Because of that, there are lots of pieces of straw in the manger on Christmas morning. There is also lots of joy present from giving these kinds of gifts to Jesus.

This kit teaches a great lesson, and provides everything needed to re-create this blessing in your family. There is an empty manger, a small bundle of straw, the Christ child figure, and the story book. To get you started, the back of the book has a list of service ideas.

By doing this, the focus of Christmas is on Christ, and your family will have a great interactive way to celebrate. Any age can do this, even the youngest of children. I highly endorse making this a yearly tradition, and recommend this five-star kit as a way of enjoying the true meaning of the season.

Worthy Kids has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Giving Manger: A Christmas Family Tradition Kit, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The Story of the Wise Men” by Patricia A. Pingry

Posted on December 10, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

Star of Wonder!

Illustrations by Alice Buckingham

This charming picture book tells the miraculous story of Jesus’ birth on a child’s level. Join the wonder of that night when the shepherds hear the good news from a sky full of angels.   While in another part of the world, wise men find a new, gigantic star, so bright it lights up the sky.  They drop everything to follow it.     Their journey takes them many miles.  They must cross the desert, and deal with the ravings of King Herod who is frightened he will be replaced by a new king.  But they do not give up, and keep following the star.  That is how they end up in the house Jesus, Mary and Joseph are living in, where they can worship the new king and give him gifts.

This old story is made new again through simple words meant for a child’s understanding.  The illustrations are bright, beautiful and draw young ones into the story.  Children will thrill to hear of the escape the wise men made from King Herod by not going back, along with the bright star in the sky that led them to Jesus.  I highly recommend this five-plus star book to all children everywhere from ages one through five-years-old.

Worthy Kids has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Story of the Wise Men, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Interrupting Chicken” by David Ezra Stein

Posted on December 7, 2021 by WordPress.com Support

Nursery Rhyme Makeovers & Cookies in Bed!

Little chicken is wide awake and wants his Papa to wake up, too–and eat cookies together!  Papa desperately wants to get more sleep, and get his little chick to give up on the idea of cookies for breakfast.  As little chick bounces on Papa’s bed, he starts reciting nursery rhymes, but he changes them to include eating cookies.

“There was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe,” and “Hickory, Dickory, Doc,” are a couple nursery rhymes that get hilarious make overs that include cookies.  Eventually, Papa gets up, and gets breakfast for his little chicken, but is it cookies? This fun story of little chick and his Papa takes place on familiar ground. As any parent of a little one knows, once they decide you should get up, they are very persistent.

This over-sized, hard-backed, picture book contains brilliant illustrations that bring even more life to this already high energy book.  Children will love the way little chicken changes nursery rhymes to try to get cookies.  They will definitely identify with being wide awake and trying to get a parent out of bed.  I recommend this five-star book to children four to eight years old.

Candlewick Press has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, Interrupting Chicken, for the purpose of review.   I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment