Have you ever reached into a mystery box without knowing what’s inside? The mix of excitement, a little fear, and a whole lot of fun? That’s how the Turtle Trouble book begins—a true story of curiosity and teamwork, featuring the four Egly brothers.
Turtle Trouble brings to life one of our family’s unforgettable adventures, where a fun-filled “What’s in the Box?” game takes an unexpected turn. What started as a simple challenge spiraled into something wilder. When a frog and a turtle join the game, the boys can’t wait to put their bravery to the test!
But, of course, adventure always comes with a twist: soon after a turtle appears, it mysteriously disappears! What follows is a fast-paced family search that has everyone wondering—where could the curious creature have gone? Will the boys be able to solve the mystery before it’s too late?
Writing this book was a joy! With four energetic boys, our family’s life is often filled with adventures, unexpected detours, and moments that make us laugh (or scramble!). The “What’s in the Box?” game was a favorite in our house, where each turn promises something new and exciting. But when real creatures entered the game, we were in for a story that would go down in Egly family history.
Turtle Trouble is a story of teamwork, curiosity, and a family’s determination to solve a problem together. Just like our last book, it’s about celebrating kindness, cooperation, and the fun of family life. Our boys had so much fun creating this memory that I knew I had to ‘re-create it’ into a book that we could share with other families.
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Here is actual footage of the day this story was created:
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Where to Find Turtle Trouble
If you’re looking for a story to make your little ones laugh, gasp, and cheer along with the Egly brothers, you can find Turtle Trouble on Amazon! It’s a perfect read for kids who love animals, mystery, and a dash of family fun.
Signed copies will be available in December and would make a wonderful Christmas gift for any child up to age 12.
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How to Win a Signed Copy:
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Thank you for supporting Turtle Trouble—we hope it brings as much joy to your family as it has to ours!
Review: Are you curious about how a struggling two-star restaurant in NYC became the world’s best restaurant? In “Unreasonable Hospitality,” Will Guidara shares his secret recipe, and spoiler alert—it’s not just about the food!
Guidara takes us on a journey behind the scenes of Eleven Madison Park, revealing how he and his team went from good to extraordinary by embracing a culture of over-the-top hospitality. Imagine being treated like a VIP every time you walk into a place—sounds amazing, right?
The book is packed with fun and inspiring stories, showing how little acts of kindness and attention to detail can make a huge difference and make guests feel truly special. The author (and restaurant owner) proves that care and hospitality can elevate any business.
What’s cool about this book is that it’s not just for people in the restaurant business. Whether you are a small business or manage a team in ANY industry, the principles of unreasonable hospitality can apply to you. It’s all about creating memorable experiences and building a culture where everyone feels valued.
If you are a person who wants to turn your business into a place where customers rave and employees thrive, this book is for you. It’s a delightful mix of practical tips and heartwarming stories that will leave you inspired to spread a little more kindness in your corner of the world.
Review: Erik Larson’s “The Splendid and the Vile” brings to life one of the most challenging and heroic periods in history. The book focuses on Winston Churchill’s first year as Prime Minister, a time marked by relentless bombing raids by Nazi Germany during World War II. Larson’s storytelling makes history feel like a gripping novel.
Through diaries, letters, and documents, Larson paints a vivid picture of Churchill, his family and close friends, making the story feel personal and relatable. Larson does a fantastic job of showing Churchill’s larger-than-life personality and his extraordinary leadership.
This is a fantastic book that combines great storytelling with real history. I recommend it to anyone who considers themselves a history buff, or someone just looking for a good read!
Review: “George Washington Carver” is a captivating and inspiring biography that shares the remarkable story of one of America’s greatest scientists and inventor. (PEANUT BUTTER was one of his inventions) The book is filled with inspiring stories that highlight Carver’s curiosity, perseverance and kindness. It’s not just a tale of scientific achievement, but also a story of overcoming adversity through faith and hard work.
The book chronicles the life of George Washington Carver, from his humble beginnings as the son of enslaved parents, to his rise as a renowned agricultural scientist and inventor. The author writes about Carver’s struggles, his determination to get an education, and his groundbreaking work in agriculture, particularly his innovations with peanuts and crop rotation that revolutionized farming in the South.
I loved one story in particular: Carver encouraged local farmers to grow peanuts because it was easy to grow and would replenish their soil with needed nutrients. At harvest time, the farmers complained to Carver that they had TOO MANY peanuts and people weren’t buying them. Carver took a walk in the woods and prayed about this problem. He asked God for help. He needed to know what to do about the peanut problem. On this quiet walk through the woods, Carver felt God tell him to ‘break the peanut apart.’ He went back to his lab and got to work. In breaking the peanut apart, Carver found over 100 uses for the peanut! Let me say this again: with God’s help, Carver found over ONE HUNDRED ways to use a simple peanut. Isn’t that like our God? He’s so good and ready to INSPIRE and help us if we just ask. We may think we are at a DEAD END but with God guiding us, He can show us a hundred different paths to take! Now back to the review…
Despite facing significant obstacles, including racial discrimination and poverty, he remained dedicated to his goals and made substantial contributions to science and farming. His story is a powerful reminder that determination, faith, and a strong sense of purpose can lead to extraordinary achievements.
This book is an excellent read for anyone interested in history, science, or just an uplifting story about a fascinating man.
Review: After reading and enjoying, “I Cheerfully Refuse” by Leif Enger, I purchased this book to read and have the author sign at a recent event.
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This is a beautifully written, heartfelt novel that blends adventure, faith, and family into an unforgettable story.
At its heart, “Peace Like a River” is about the power of family and faith. It explores how these forces can guide us through the darkest times and bring hope and healing. The Land family’s love for each other and belief in miracles, provide a touching and uplifting message. The characters are richly developed and relatable, each with their own quirks and strengths.
Leif Enger’s storytelling is powerful. I recommend this book to anyone who appreciates a touching and inspiring story.
Review: When author Leif Enger mentioned how much he loved “The Adventures of Robin Hood” as a young boy, I checked it out from the library to read to my two youngest sons. And just like Lief, they loved it.
The story follows Robin Hood, the outlaw who steals from the rich to give to the poor, along with his band of Merry Men. Set in Sherwood Forest, the book is filled with daring adventures, clever tricks, and the timeless battle between good and evil. I recommend this book for younger boys ages 8-14.
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Thanks for reading my reviews! Please share this post and/or leave a comment with YOUR recommendations!
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Review: “The Covenant of Water” is an incredibly well-told story. The writer does a phenomenal job of developing the characters and the storyline, making it both believable and beautiful. My only complaints about this book are its length and the abundance of characters with complex names, which can make it challenging to keep track of everyone.
The book begins with a young girl, only 12 years old, engaged to an older man. This initial premise is both shocking and disturbing. However, the man is equally taken aback by the match with a child. He takes her home and provides a safe place for her to live and grow until she comes of age. The story follows this young girl throughout her entire life and continues even after her death.
I enjoyed how the author skillfully wove different storylines together, creating a rich tapestry of narratives. Although it took a long time to read, it was worth the effort. The depth and complexity of the characters and the intricacies of the plot make “The Covenant of Water” a compelling and memorable read.
Review: I recently discovered “I Cheerfully Refuse” by Leif Enger after seeing that the author was about to speak at a nearby event and also receiving a recommendation from a friend in Colorado. I decided to download this audiobook and was captivated by the story, which is written in a unique and beautiful way.
The main character, Rainy, and his wife live a simple and happy life when a young stranger shows up with car troubles. The story unfolds, taking us on an adventure that beautifully captures the essence of human connection and the unexpected turns life can take. Enger’s writing is engaging, drawing you into the world of his characters with ease.
Rainy’s journey, sparked by this chance encounter, is filled with moments of heartbreak, humor, tenderness, and reflection. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions and heartfelt dialogues that make you feel a part of their lives. The characters are well-developed, each with their own quirks and charms, adding depth to the storyline.
“I Cheerfully Refuse” is not just a tale of an adventure; it’s a story about resilience, kindness, and the beauty of simple, everyday moments. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a touching and thought-provoking read. Leif Enger has crafted a novel that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading (or listening).
Review: I was given an advance copy of this book because the author is a friend. It’s a memoir of his life – how he became a successful businessman and what what he’s learned along the way.
Here are five gold nuggets I pulled from the book:
Everyone was created to make a difference in people’s lives and make the world a better place. The enemy wants to do everything he can to turn your attention to your problems, cause fear, and distract you from your life’s purpose. His goal is to keep you in survival mode, but God wants to give you a life of significance.
God uses imperfect people to accomplish extraordinary things. When God gives a promise, He releases us from logic to imagination. What unique partnership is God inviting me into? “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.” (Proverbs 11:25).
God can create solutions to any problem. He may prompt us to do something unexpected and unconventional. If we listen and follow His prompting, we will have an amazing and fulfilling journey. You don’t have to fear your competitors when you and God are a team. Invite God into every one of your problems and challenges.
Adversity can hurt or help you. God can turn impossible circumstances into something good. God’s voice is edifying, truthful, positive, and full of love. It brings peace. His voice does not demean, accuse, or condemn. We may feel convicted that something in our lives needs to change, and God is there for every step.
Take a five-minute vacation: Sit and allow God to show you His love. During negative times, read and meditate on God’s word. Remember the times He has turned bad situations into good ones. God’s word is one of the greatest weapons for defeating the enemy and overcoming obstacles.
If you are a person of faith and business owner, or a young person who wants to be an entrepreneur, this book is for you!
Review: Elizabeth Elliot was one of my heroes as a young person. I read her books, listened to her speak and learned so much from her in the 90s. This book captured Elisabeth’s years on the mission field. First, with her husband as a young bride and then as young parents. Elisabeth’s husband was killed in the jungle by Indians and left her a widow with a 10 month old daughter. The book shares how Elisabeth and her daughter ended up living among those same Indians, learning from them and growing to love them. I thought this book shared fascinating insight into the life of a missionary. If you are a fan of the Elliots, or interested in mission work – this book is for you!
Review: While I enjoyed the first volume, Becoming Elisabeth Elliot, I absolutely loved the second one, Being Elisabeth Elliot. The first book delved into much of the information I already knew about Elisabeth, albeit in much greater detail. However, this second volume shares the latter half of Elisabeth Elliot’s life, and it felt like reconnecting with a friend I hadn’t chatted with since college and it was such an enjoyable visit.
This book tells the story of Elisabeth’s life after her time on the mission field. Upon returning to the United States with her daughter, Elisabeth embarked on a journey as a writer. The narrative follows her through the significant events and challenges she faced, including her second marriage and the heartbreaking loss of her husband to cancer.
Ellen Vaughn excelled in weaving together hundreds of journals, articles, and letters to create a compelling and heartfelt story. Her goal was to tell the truth with love, and she certainly achieved that. The meticulous research and profound respect for Elisabeth’s life are evident throughout the book, making it a truly enriching read.
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Thanks for reading and please comment with your book recommendations!
Hey there, bookworms! I’m excited to share on some amazing books about remarkable women from history. These are regular women doing seemingly small stuff that ends up changing the world. Thanks to Janet Benge’s fantastic biographies, we get a front-row seat to tales of grit, courage, and downright heroism. These women prove that you don’t need a cape to be a hero; everyday actions can rewrite history. So, grab your favorite blanket, a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into these stories that’ll leave you feeling inspired and ready to conquer the world. Who’s eady to join me on this literary adventure?
Note: If you have a library card, you can download the Hoopla app, and listen to all of these for free.
Once a painfully timid child, Clara was as bold as a lion when it came to helping others, whether working as a teacher with the most challenging children, helping natural-disaster victims, or comforting dying soldiers.
Clara fought for U.S. approval of the Geneva treaty for the care of war wounded, organized the American Red Cross, and dedicated her life to its service. Her courage and compassion impacted thousands of people around the globe – black and white, Christian and Muslim, Spanish and American, Confederate and Union. An incredible story of service and sacrifice (1821-1912).
From the time she was 6, Harriet resolved to escape slavery and move north. Little did this little girl know that one day, she would lead hundreds of slaves to freedom on the Underground Railroad.
Even huge rewards for her capture – dead or alive – did not stop Harriet from risking her life again and again in the fight for liberty as the nation spiraled into the Civil War. Whether running from slave hunters, advising generals, or improving conditions in war hospitals, remarkable Harriet Tubman would not be satisfied until every person could experience true freedom. (1820-1913)
Gladys started life as a servant for wealthy families. While at a meeting, she became convinced that God wanted her to go to China. She knew no Chinese, had no contacts in China, and flunked out of a China mission school. Gladys saved up her money and bought a one-way ticket to China. She stood up for women’s rights, inspired prison reform, started a small business, adopted orphans, and won the respect of government officials and civilians alike. Her work in China continues to this day. (1902-1970)
Corrie Ten Boom was an ordinary watchmaker’s daughter when her family was arrested for helping Jewish people hide from the Nazis. They were taken to prison and suffered greatly under the hands of their captors. This book tells how Corrie survived the war and went on to help others by telling them about God’s love and forgiveness. (1892-1983)
Amy, a compassionate woman, dedicated her life to caring for those in need. Initially residing in an English slum, she assisted impoverished women until her health deteriorated. In response to a call, she ventured to a mission hospital in India where she uncovered a distressing reality – baby girls being given away as gifts to temples for forced prostitution. Appalled by this, Amy adopted these girls and established an orphanage, eventually becoming a mother to over 100 girls. As boys joined the fold, she expanded her care to 80 of them and even built a home and a hospital.
At the age of 63, a severe fall left Amy mostly incapacitated and bedridden for the remaining 20 years of her life. Despite her physical limitations, she continued leading her family from her bedside, and prolifically writing books and letters to those around the world. She published 35 pieces of work.
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Don’t these women sound inspiring? And I love that they each started with a simple beginning, responded to a need, and left a big impact on so many lives. (1867-1951)
Here are the first two books I finished in 2024. Both are fantastic biographies of men who showed grit and resiliency in the face of extreme difficulty. Their perseverance paid off and both men succeeded in completely different ways.
Review: I thoroughly enjoyed diving into the life of Milton Hershey, the visionary behind America’s favorite chocolate. He grew up very poor and struggled in school – many doubted his potential. This was a powerful reminder that each person possesses unique gifts that may only surface later in life. I was amazed at Milton Hershey’s grit and relentless determination to succeed. Despite encountering many failures in his business ventures, he did not give up. I admired his innovative thinking. When land and buildings were too expensive in town for his factory, he built a factory in the middle of nowhere, and built a town around his factory. He allowed the public to name his town – it became “Hershey, Pennsylvania.” Before he died, Milton gave his earnings away to build homes and a school for children in need.
Review: “The Boys in the Boat” is a non-fiction book that tells the inspiring and true story of the University of Washington’s eight-oar crew team and their journey to the 1936 Berlin Olympics. The story primarily focuses on Joe Rantz, one of the rowers, and his challenging life circumstances. Against the backdrop of the Great Depression and rising tensions in Europe, the book explores the team’s struggles, dedication, and ultimate triumph in the face of adversity. The book takes us to the 1936 Olympics in Nazi Germany, where the American team, including the University of Washington crew, faced off against Adolf Hitler’s favored German team. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Brown captures the spirit of determination, teamwork, and resilience that defined the boys in the boat. I highly recommend this book to anyone 15 and up!
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(Side note: I thought I had read “Boys in the Boat” a while back, only to realize I had confused it with “Unbroken.” Both books are set in the same historical era, and while “Boys in the Boat” revolves around a rowing team at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, “Unbroken” follows the life of Louis Zamperini, who not only attended the same Olympics but also survived World War II, including a period spent with several “Boys in a boat.”
Despite the mix-up, I thoroughly enjoyed both stories. The tale of the boys in the boat is distinct from Louis Zamperini’s incredible journey, but each narrative stands on its own merits. I highly recommend both books for their gripping accounts of resilience, courage, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.)
A captivating and inspiring tale of exploration, human endurance and survival. It’s hard to believe this is a true story. An amazing book for anyone ages 12 or up.
This book was a breath of fresh air for my soul! It reminded me to slow down and live with intention.
The authors words and methods were simple and life-giving. He doesn’t give you more to do, but plows the path towards less. He shows the reader how to ENJOY this ONE life we’ve been given.
“Through life-giving practices, grounded in the life of Jesus, we gain access to life power beyond our own.” – John Mark Comer
Benjamin Franklin was a fascinating man with so much creativity and wisdom. I loved learning about his life and adventures (and antics)! I had no idea that so many things we use today were thought up by HIM. I loved this story – it would make a great book to read to kids ages 8 and up!
Janet Benge writes amazing biographies. I hope to read every book she’s written because they are written like a movie. Benjamin Franklin was such an interesting man. He was a writer, printer, inventor, and politician. What I loved most about him was that he continually looked for ways to improve himself and the world around him – and was so creative in his approach!
While Sally shines on the screen, her personal life is quite sad. Reading this book reinforces why I put the rule in place to read only books rated 4.0 and higher. This was rated less on goodreads and now I know why. Skip this one.
Review: After reading Katharine Graham’s book last year, I noticed she mentioned Chuck Colson in her book several times – and NOT in a positive light. It wasn’t the Chuck Colson I was familiar with. I was curious about his life and conversion. Once I started “Born Again,” I could not put it down. This book was outstanding. It shares how Colson was an attorney who worked for President Nixon. Colson wasn’t afraid to break the rules and lie ‘for the greater good.’ Those choices landed him in prison. Just before going to jail, he had an encounter with Jesus that changed his life. While serving time, he saw many gaps and failures in the prison system. From the time Chuck Colson was released from prison, he’s spent the rest of his life creating and running a ministry called “Prison Fellowship.” He fights for prison reform, for the families of prisoners, and teaches prisoners how to live a life differently than the one that led to incarceration. Nearly all the prisoners who go through the Prison Fellowship program never go back to jail, but go on to lead productive lives.
The book explores themes of redemption, faith, and the transformative power of a spiritual awakening in the midst of personal and public crises. It’s an excellent story and worth reading!
Review: With a house full of athletes, I decided to read this book by the great coach John Wooden. I was excited to read that he was from Indiana and was a teacher, just like me! This small book is packed full of life lessons and practical advice. I admire his work ethic and values-driven coaching and approach to life. I’d recommend this book to a high school or college athlete.
Here are some powerful quotes from the book:
Parents often expect teacher and coaches to do what they are not doing at home. Parents must set the foundation of faith and values.
Success is when you work hard to become the best version of you. Did I win? Wrong question. ‘Did I make my best effort?’ Success is a direct result of the self-satisfaction of knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.
Learn from the past but don’t live in it.
Individual praise can be dangerous. It was given for something done in the past and can take your mind off what you need to do in the present to prepare for the future. The harder you work, the more luck you have.
Valid self- analysis is crucial for improvement.
Promise yourself you will talk health and happiness as often as possible.
Promise yourself to tell your friends there is something special about them and you value you them.
Wear a cheerful appearance at all times.
My role is to help mold character, instill productive principles and values, and provide a positive example to those under my supervision. It’s a privilege to have that responsibility.
Discipline is for correction not punishment.
Focus your effort on what is in your power to control.
Education serves you throughout your whole life. Sports are temporary.
Always try to be the best you can be. Learn from others, but don’t try to be better than them. You have no control over that. Be the best you can be.
The best time to make friends is before you need them.
Review: We say we’re free in Christ, but many of us are still living in captivity–to fear, anger, shame, isolation, unforgiveness, and control. We’re good at faking it around others, but we’re exhausted. Andi Andrew explores how to ‘break free’ in this book.
My favorite chapter was that on fear:
The truth about Fear – fear is the root of anxiety, control, manipulation, worry, anger, shame, insecurity, unbelief, addiction and people-pleasing. Fear is rooted in self preservation. When we doubt the goodness of God, we turn to ourselves for preservation and prosperity. Fear can make us physically sick. Fear is void of the love of God. Are you allowing fear to give you orders or are you silencing it at its first whisper?
Jesus and his words have authority over fear. What are you putting your faith in? Fear is actually faith in the wrong kingdom.
John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give unto you. I don’t give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid, because I have overcome the world.”
We don’t go out of the house without wearing clothes. We shouldn’t go out of our house without wearing Christ. If we went out naked, we’d be assaulted by the weather and probably by the police. If we go out without being covered in Christ, we’re assaulted by negative thoughts, discouragement, and depression. Wrap yourself in the love of Christ.
Review: Discovering Paul Brand has been a delight! Although his name eluded me until now, I’m immensely grateful for the introduction through this book and his life!
Paul was born to English parents who were medical missionaries in India. He returned to England at the age of 9 and stayed until he’d finished school. During medical school, he crossed paths with Margaret, and their shared journey led them to become doctors, partners in marriage, and missionaries in India.
Paul’s pioneering work in performing surgeries on lepers, a group often shunned by many, showcases his exceptional dedication and care for the “least of these.” Rockefeller provided him a ‘scholarship’ to travel the world and learn from others – but as he traveled, other surgeons were learning from him and asking him to teach! What he was doing with lepers in India was groundbreaking. His expertise and knowledge even to benefited the diabetic community facing similar challenges.
Towards the twilight of his life, Paul collaborated with Philip Yancey to author several books, which I’ve now added to my ever-growing “to read” list!
What captivated me most was how Paul’s seemingly small acts of faithfulness rippled out to touch the lives of the world’s most vulnerable. His influence, beginning with those in dire need, gradually radiated to transform the entire medical community through his dedicated practice and groundbreaking research.
Review: A fascinating, hard-to-believe real life adventure story of a group of men who set out to explore Antarctica, until their ship becomes locked in ice and eventually goes under. They evacuate to an ice berg with three small boats and whatever materials they could get from the boat before it sank. This book shares the harrowing tail of how they all survived! This fantastic book I recommend for anyone 12 and up.
Review: This 365-page devotional is written chronologically through the Bible. I love the way Susie writes and gives interesting perspectives and insight into God’s world. I recommend this to anyone looking for a devotional!
Review: Because Oral Roberts University is on the list of colleges for George, I decided to read the founder’s life story. It was interesting and full of miracles that happened throughout Oral Robert’s life. Here’s one story from his younger years:
While Oral Robert’s dad was away working, his mom and siblings ran out of food and money. Their mom took them out for a walk and a neighbor invited them in for dinner. Mrs. Roberts declined the invitation because the woman was a widow and had very little. The boys said, “But mom, we are so hungry, why didn’t you say YES when our neighbor invited us to eat with her.” Their mom didn’t explain but replied that God would take care of them. She began thanking God in advance for what He would do. When they got home, there were bags of groceries waiting for them – a full ham, potatoes, and ingredients for fresh bread. That night, dinner never tasted so good as they realized that God had indeed taken care of them.
Review: This memoir, penned by Zig Ziglar’s daughter, defied my initial expectations. Instead of a narrative filled with ‘butterflies’ and ‘sunshine,’ the author candidly recounts a series of unfortunate decisions that brought considerable pain and heartache to both herself and her family. In the face of alcoholism and an impending divorce, she reached her breaking point and initiated transformative changes in her life. The author openly reflects on the profound impact that faith and honesty had on her journey toward health and restoration.
Review: This beloved children’s book revolves around the unruly Herdman children who decide to participate in the local Christmas pageant. The Herdman’s have little knowledge of the Christmas story and challenge the traditional narrative. “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is funny, endearing, and most importantly – reminds us of the reason we get to celebrate Christmas. I recommend it for all ages.
Review: This book was so good that it needs it’s own blog post!
Hurry kills relationships, joy, gratitude and appreciation. Wisdom is slow, it grows with time and reflection. There is zero correlation between hurry and productivity. It takes practice to live with attention and awareness. I want to live a grateful life, full of appreciation, wonder and worship. I want to live with freedom and focus. I want to be present: to God, to people and to the moment. The gravitational pull towards hurry is overwhelming at times. Hence this book. Read it! It’s going on my ‘best books of the year’ list and I purchased one to give away. Stay tuned for the upcoming post!
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There are endless parenting books on the market – many good ones, a few really bad (or just plain BORING), and a few GREAT ones! Here are four of my favorites:
This book contains practical ideas and inspiration for raising boys who are honorable, courageous and compassionate.
“We need to start training them now to be ready to take the reins of leadership – to live with integrity, to think outside of themselves, and to value the people around them. We need boys who will use their strength for the protection of others rather than to prey on others. With power and strength comes great responsibility.”
I consider this a must-read for every Christian parent. It’s filled with page after page of Biblical truth and practical encouragement.
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We have this one life, this short time on earth to make our mark and to make life count. We have these children in our care for a blink of an eye. NOW is the time to be engaged and fully present. Now is the time to rise up and be the parent who trains and prepares our children to become the individuals they were created to be.
Susie Larson, author of Growing Grateful kids
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God promises to give wisdom if we ask him. We need wisdom because every child is different. The Lord will show you how to parent each of your children in a way that will help him or her to grow to be the person they were created to be.
This book was written by a parent and psychologist. I found it practical, extremely helpful, and even inspiring. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed it so much that I went online and purchased a hard-copy. Topics include respect, chores, homework, helping your child deal with a ‘bad day,’ and building ‘faith practices’ in your home (though you don’t have to be a person of faith to find IMMENSE value in this book)! I highly recommend it to all parents.
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Unsure how to find grace and security in the complex world we’ve inherited, we try to fill up the spaces in our children’s lives with stuff: birthdays, lessons, rooms full of toys and equipment, tutors and therapists. But material pleasures can’t buy peace of mind, and all the excess leads to more anxiety—parents fear that their children will not be able to sustain this rarefied lifestyle and will fall off the mountain the parents have built for them.
Dr. Wendy Mogul, author of The Blessing of a Skinned Knee
To care for the physical needs of others while ignoring their spiritual needs is like giving a hamburger to a hungry man sitting on train tracks and not telling him a train is coming. The Bible calls Christians to care for both physical and spiritual needs, and ignoring either puts people in serious danger.
Natasha Crain, author of Talking to Your Kids about God
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Natasha Crain discusses the evidence for the existence of God, how science confirms the God of the Bible, how Christianity is different from other religions, and how all these things apply to us and the world around us. An excellent book for Christian parents who want to know how to answer their child’s questions. I recommend it to any Christian parent or parent who may be curious about God.
On Sunday we introduced “The Great Lake Rescue” to our community by hosting an Ice Cream Book Launch party. The event took place at our local park. Our invitations were sent to array of friends, classmates, and the esteemed illustrator.
Here’s what happened:
3:00
Ice Cream Sundaes, Root Beer Floats and Popsicles
Meet the Author and Illustrator
Opportunity to Purchase and Obtain Autographed Copies of the Book
Children’s Drawing Contest with Exciting Giveaways
Coloring Station, featuring custom sheets crafted by the illustrator
4:00
Meet the Four Main Characters – the Egly boys
Live Book Reading
Q and A with the Author and Main Characters
4:40
Giveaways Announced and Prizes Given
4:45
Final Opportunity to Purchase and Obtain Autographed Copies of the Book
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Even with the rain, over 100 people came! The boys, the book, and I felt incredibly loved. One thing that really stands out to me about Minnesotans is how they don’t let the weather bother them. Rain, heat, or freezing cold, they still go out and enjoy life without hesitation.
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I forgot to ask someone to take photos of the event so I didn’t get pictures of everything and everyone, including the illustrator, Alyssa Whetstone. However, here are a few that others snapped and sent to me:
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The Fox FamilyThe Jean FamilyLive readingGeorge and Evie – the best ice cream scoopers!Paul and Jordan- with one of the Giveaways!
Review: This book shocked me with it’s turn from crochety old man to old man who wants to commit suicide! However, as the story unfolds, you get to know this man and come to love him. What I took from this story is that:
If you have a pulse, you have a purpose!
Ove, the main character, did not think his life had meaning, but because he made himself available, he made a positive impact on those around him.
Review: This one will be in my TOP TEN of 2023! Ted read it and gave it to me. I was hooked from the beginning. Now our sons are reading it, and I’m recommending to all my friends with teenagers. It’s a short and easy-to-read book. Each chapter is a story with an extremely valuable life lesson. LOVE THIS ONE!! A MUST READ!!
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3. Good girls guide to murder by Holly Jackson
Rating 8/10
Review: My niece read and loved this book and recommended it to me. It’s a murder mystery that has the reader intrigued from the beginning, and was hard to put down.
Review: A great book from CS Lewis about WHY he believes WHAT he believes.
God made the human machine to run on Him. We can’t be happy without him. There is no true peace without him. Many of us are trying to ‘run’ on the wrong juice.
Review: There are some gold nuggets in this book, but it was buried in a lot of extra reading and research data. I did appreciate the authors warnings about being overly connected to our phones, as well as the value of “device free” time for ourselves and our children.
Having quiet space to think device free, allows us to come up with new and innovative ideas.
Review: A phenomenal book on communication in marriage. Reading this book was like going to a marriage therapy session and just SO good. I HIGHLY recommend it to ALL married couples!!!
Review: I discovered Beth Moore in the 90s and she revolutionized my understanding of scripture. I love the way Beth teaches – she makes the Bible come alive. I was excited to read her memoir, but didn’t love it as much as I love her writing about Scripture.
Review: A fun book I read with my 5th grader. It’s the story of a middle school girl and her Grandpa, a scientist, who discovers a way to reverse aging and becomes thirteen again. I loved the relationship between the “Scientist Grandpa” and “Middle School Granddaughter.” It’s a sweet story about what they learn from each other and how they help each other. The book helps answer the question about whether “reversed aging” is as good as it sounds.
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11. We need to talk by Celeste Headlee
Rating: 9/10
Review: A great book on how to be a better listener and conversationalist.
When talking to someone with different beliefs – stay curious (don’t try to teach or convince them they are wrong). Listening doesn’t mean agreeing, it’s trying to understand.
Review: George and I loved Ground Zero by Alan Gratz, so he picked this one up from his school library for us to read together. It shares the story of three different refugee families leaving their countries to build a better life in a new country. It helped us see some of the challenges and struggles these families dealt with and made us grateful to be born in such a great country.
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13. The boys are back in town by Phyllis Reynolds
Rating: 8/10
Review: Fun and engaging stories for kids ages 8-13.
Review: The author shares lots of interesting stories about the power of prayer. This book inspired me to PRAY! The author also talked about the value in setting goals:
The brain is a goal seeking organization. Setting a goal creates structural tension in your brain which will seek to close the gap between where you are and where you want to be, who you are and who you want to become.
Review: This book was a wonderful story about a young man looking for the dad he’s never met, and an older woman who’s still grieving her lost son. The two meet and their stories intertwine in a beautiful way.
Review: McManus challenges readers to go from self-focused to servant-leaders, and shares lots of great stories along the way. Good book, but I liked The Last Arrow (by McManus) even better.
Review: I read this book with my 15 year-old and we both really enjoyed it. It’s a fiction book that tells the story of a troubled kid whose nickname is “Ghost” who joins the track team. There he finds his place, his ‘family,’ and the discipline he needs to succeed.
Review: This is a must-read for every Christian parent. It’s filled with page after page of Biblical truth and practical encouragement.
Here are 5 of my favorite quotes from this book:
We have this one life, this short time on earth to make our mark and to make life count. We have these children in our care for a blink of an eye. NOW is the time to be engaged and fully present. Now is the time to rise up and be the parent who trains and prepares our children to become the individuals they were created to be.
Prayer is oxygen. We breathe in the fresh life that God offers and breathe out worries and concerns.
Refuse to give your children everything they want, but assure them that God will provide everything they need.
When we take time to play and laugh with our children amidst the stresses of life, we send a strong message that says we believe God is in control and that he is faithful.
God promises to give wisdom if we ask him. We need wisdom because every child is different. The Lord will show you how to parent each of your children in a way that will help him or her to grow to be the person they were created to be.
Review: The only way to read this book is to LISTEN! Bono reads and sings his way through the story of his life. If you are a U2 fan, you will enjoy this book!
Here are two quotes and a story I loved:
“It takes great faith to have no faith.”
Bono
“The world is not so scary, if around the corner someone is waiting to walk with you on the next part of your journey.”
Bono
“When Bobby Kennedy was appointed by his brother (JFK) to be Attorney General, the black community was upset. All of MLK Junior’s associates were complaining. Martin Luther King said, “Can anyone tell me one good thing about Bobby Kennedy?” They said, “That’s what we’re telling you, there’s nothing good.“ MLK told them that the meeting was adjourned, and that their assignment was to go find one good thing about Bobby Kennedy, because that would be the door that would move the civil rights movement forward. When Bobby Kennedy died, he was a champion for civil rights. You don’t have to agree on everything. Sometimes it’s just about finding one good thing. It’s the door.”
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Those are the first set of books I’ve read this year. What about you? What are you reading and what would you recommend? Leave a comment!
