In Search of the Proverbs 31 Man

The woman presented as an example in Proverbs 31 has often haunted many women over the centuries. The description of this woman seems unattainable to most women. This was not the intention of the biblical author and many of the intended truths are revealed in this reversed Proverbs 31 book. The author relates that we are all a work in progress but there are certain attributes that are indicative of future behavior and habits. This book not only contains information on picking a wonderful mate but also gives solutions to making a marriage better.

The author, while not married, gives lots of good advice and examples of application. While this book is written mostly for men, almost anyone could gain helpful advice. There is some license taken with Proverbs 31 but there are other Scripture references used in the discussion that back up the points that are made. I found this book helpful and it will be a great resource for me to use in my family and in working with others.

Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret. by Judy Blume

Margaret is eleven, soon to be twelve. She is starting in a new school, new town, and a new way of approaching life. Her mother and father have raised her without religion since they differ in that area. But the main focus in life in her new town is religion. Margaret wants to figure out where she belongs but her family makes it difficult. She talks to God when she is by herself and does not feel the same presence when she visits different religious services. Besides trying to find where she belongs, she is also struggling through a difficult age in growing up.

Out of all the Judy Blume books, I think that this one is the one I would consider my favorite. Always having grown up in church, this book gave me a glimpse into someone's life who has had little or no religious contact. Other Judy Blume books are often negative and give bad advice, so a word of caution before letting your child just read one. While most of her books can be for boys and girls, this one is aimed at girls. Definitely read this book with your daughter(s), since there are complex topics within this book.

Canadian West Series Continuation by Janette Oke

Following up with Wynn and Elizabeth from the previous books, we meet their children (Henry and Christine) that they rescued from bad circumstances and adopted. Henry is a Mountie like his father Wynn. Christine has completed a secretarial course and is looking for her place in the world. The world they face is a different place from when their parents were young. But like their parents, the trials they are faced with prove their faith in the end.

I loved the continuation books. I had always wondered what had happened to them, even if they are fictional. What Henry and Christine face bring us to a more modern world than many of her other books. This is a wonderful ending to the story that started a generation before. I think that girls would start enjoying and understanding this book around middle school. It does discuss what Canada was like during WWII (briefly) but it doesn’t describe the actual war.

Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm by Kate Douglas Wiggin

Rebecca comes from a large, mother-run family. Her father died early in life, leaving seven children and a farm for his wife, Aurelia Randall, to care for. As the children grew, her two older sisters offer to care for the oldest, Hannah, and see that she would obtain a good education and become an asset to help the family in the future. Hannah could not be spared; so Aurelia sent Rebecca. Hannah and Rebecca are different as two people could be. Hannah is dependable and Rebecca is quite flightly and given to getting lost in thought. Through many lessons and heartaches, Rebecca became the person that her aunts first wanted.

While this book often reminds me of the Anne of Green Gables Series by LM Montgomery, it is quite it’s own story. The similarities are a young girl who does not fit with customs and often does or says the wrong things; a girl whose heart is big and imagination roams; and the struggles of coming of age.

I enjoyed this book and hurt with Rebecca during her misfortunes and missteps. As she grew, she made less blunders and brings hope to young girls who are not quite grown. She strives to do what is right by others and find her place in the world. I would recommend this book to girls in mid-elementary school for them to read; I would also recommend reading it to younger girls who are not able to read it for themselves yet.

Shiloh & Shiloh Season by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

When eleven-year-old Marty discovers a dog that ran away from Judd Travers, an important connection is made between the dog and Marty. The beagle, Shiloh, as Marty names him, is scared to death of Judd; he shakes and cringes any time he hears Judd or nears Judd’s property. After returning Shiloh, Marty witnesses Judd kick him. From this time on, Marty spends much of his free time trying to find a way to convince Judd to let him have Shiloh. Finally, an opportunity appears and Marty takes it. Although, he often wonders later on if he had made the right decision.

In Shiloh Season, the story continues but the relationship with Judd has dramatically worse. Judd has never had much respect for animals and limited respect for humans, but now it is obvious that his drinking is taking away any remaining. Marty and his family do everything they can to keep the relationship from Judd getting worse. They wonder if he will change or if he will always be a threat to the area’s safety.

Many students hear this story for the first time at school. It is a great one that talks about making good decisions, telling the truth to parents, and treating people (and animals) as they should be. This is a great book for kids to have read to them at a young age or for them to read it when they are in mid-elementary school.

Canadian West Series by Janette Oke

Elizabeth moves west to Calgary, Canada, to teach school in a growing settlement. But the superintendent of the new district has a different idea-he intends her to marry him. After she declines his offer, he sends her to a remote area, a day’s train ride from her western family. She is to be the first teacher to this small rural community. Compared to her lavish upbringing in the East, Elizabeth struggles to overcome living in a less comfortable situation. Elizabeth becomes friends with many of the families. She meets the local Mountie, Wynn Delaney, and quickly develops a crush. After several embarrassing situations, Wynn proceeds to take her as his wife. The rest of the series tells of their life living in the far north of Canada. There are many heartbreaks for them along with many wonderful times. Lessons are learned and through everything, they strive to keep their eyes on God.

This series is encouraging. There are many struggles that they go through that are not likely to ever happen in my life. They handle circumstances with human responses that are striving to see God work in situations. Being easy to read, someone in late elementary school or middle school would enjoy reading these books.

Night Cry by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

The last few years of Ellen’s life has brought many changes. Her mother dies suddenly of spinal meningitis. Not too long after, her brother, Billy, is thrown from his horse and dies. Ellen is left with her dad and his eccentric and not often well-paying endeavors. As Ellen takes over responsibilities, she regularly visits Granny Bo, their elderly neighbor. Granny Bo is very superstitious and Ellen begins to wonder if there may be some truth in them. When a former resident who has made it big in the city returns, his son is kidnapped and the townspeople blame Granny Bo. Ellen wonders if Granny Bo might have something to do with it until she hears a cry in the night that is in a different direction.

This book is very interesting and is a good example of how superstitious ideas can be harmful and cause problems. The author relates a young girl’s thought process as she works through ideas of superstition. With the subject matter, it would be a good book for someone in third or fourth grade to read with their parents. It would not be a bad thing (depending on the child) for parents to read it to a slightly younger child and discuss the topic.

What Katy Did by Susan Coolidge

Katy is a girl who is turning into a young woman. She takes pleasure being outside, running, creating stories, and making decorations out of plants and flowers. Aunt Izzie wishes, above all, to tame her wild niece. The other children in the family seem to follow and do whatever Katy has in mind. This results in extra laundry and mending much of the time. Shortly after a visit of their Cousin Helen, Katy suffers an accident that changes the course of not only her life but the family as well.

Most accidents and other occurrences in our lives are out of our control. What is in our control is how we respond to them, determining how we treat those around us during the tough times. This concept seems to be the theme of the second part of the book. It’s an easy-to-read book. Girls in later elementary school would be a good age to read it but girls who are younger would probably enjoy having it read to them.

The Giver by Lois Lowry

In a world that is much different than our own, Jonas has grown up not knowing what it is like to make many decisions a day. Everything is predetermined by the elders. They have no idea that a different life could exist. Each generation, things progress as they did in the past generations. No one is special, no one is left behind. As Jonas becomes a Twelve and is given his life assignment, he soon finds out that he has been set apart in a community where it is best to fit in. He trains with the The Giver and Receives the memories he has held since he was assigned-the memories that tell them that life used to be different. Jonas realizes that the feelings the community is taught to identify are mere shades of true emotion. And even though they have eradicated pain and fear, they have also dissolved the capacity to truly know and feel love.

Pain is part of life that none of us really like. This book is a good reminder that it is difficult (on this earth) to have love without the pain. I am always reminded that the pain and sadness makes love that much better and helps me appreciate it more. Rated at a 4.5 reading level, elementary students who read this will be able to understand it. The topics discussed would be easier to understand and think about if the student has someone to read with.

Angels Series by Lurlene McDaniel

Leah had always been independent. Her mother who married many times over to better their lives worked long hours, leaving Leah to care for herself. While her mother was on her honeymoon with her most recent husband, Leah’s finger started to hurt and later found it to be broken when she went to the doctor. When he did not like how it was sudden, he had her check into the hospital for further evaluation. With the eventual diagnosis of cancer, Leah was in for the fight of her life. The only hope she found during this time was the Amish family she grew to know and love; and Gabriella who came to her in her most desperate times. While no one else saw Gabriella besides Leah and her Amish roommate, Rebekah, she brought hope to many people. As Leah recovered from cancer and moved forward with her life, she still hoped for connection to Rebekah and her family, especially her brother Ethan. Ethan was struggling with his place in his family and the Amish community. Although they came from such different backgrounds, they found love that they had not experienced before. Being from such different worlds, they struggled to find a way to make their love possible.

I first read these books in elementary school and enjoyed them immensely. While they have a romantic tone, they are appropriate and not indecent. I also had a chance to learn about the Amish community, which I had not experienced personally. The books are easy to read and understand. These books would probably be enjoyed by girls that are in 3^rd or 4^th grade and older.

Child of the Silent Night-Edith Fisher Hunter

Laura Bridgman was only about two when she came down with scarlet fever. Even though she survived, she was left blind, deaf, and mute, with much of her smell and taste abilities gone. Her parents recognized her intelligence and eagerness to learn as she grew. She often went on walks with her friend Asa Tenney who introduced her to nature and taught her how to be gentle with live animals. Through his walks, she stayed interested in learning and paved the way for her to be one of the first deaf/blind/mute people to learn to communicate with other people. She was taken to a school and was taught to feel the alphabet’s raised letters, to write, and signing the alphabet into someone’s hand and understanding them signing in her hand.

Being at a lower reading level, this book is great for kids to start learning about people that are different from them. Since it takes place over 100 years ago, it would be helpful for parents to read the book with the child in order to explain some topics.

Thriving, Not Just Surviving by Officers' Christian Fellowship

Deployments have become one of the phases of military life. The anticipation of a coming deployment, the good-bye, the absence, and re-integration are times where it is difficult to do much more than see it through. But many people have asked, “Isn’t there a better way?” And there is: when soldier, spouse, and family trust in God to take care of each other, there can be “peace” in the midst of war.

While my husband is not currently deployed and I borrowed this book from a friend, I have been able to relate to the emotions, fears, and longings that were expressed by those telling their stories. I plan to get my own copy and keep it on hand for the next time my husband is called to war. It is ideal for spouses that have been through several deployments and those who are on their first one. It also might be good for soldiers to read to see what their spouses may be feeling or thinking and having a difficult time expressing.

Cheaper by the Dozen by Frank B. Gilbreth, Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey

Frank and Lillie Gilbreth led lives different than many people. Frank was a scientist and involved their twelve children in their studies on motion and efficiency. Although, it often took Lillie's psychology to get them to agree to work with their father. Though their parenting was not traditional in many ways, their children thrived on waiting to see what would happen next. Frank was the life of the family and encouraged his children to think and learn beyond their age requirements. Lillie offset Frank by providing real life examples of the things they were learning from their father. While they were often seen as a circus, the love and endearment of the family was evident to those who knew them.

Written by two of Frank and Lillie’s children, the perspective given is clear of what it can be like to live in a family with a dozen children. It is fun to read of their adventures and experiences. The time period is in the early 1900’s and while it is quite appropriate for grade school readers, there may be some explanations needed about society in that time period.

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

Trapped by society, 7 young men try to find where they can be at peace with the world. While they are wilder than others their age, their source of survival is wrapped up in being tough and banding together with others like themselves. Through one unlikely evening, their lives are dramatically altered forever. Nothing would be able to return things to the way they had been but they all would be changed through the events.

This book gives a glimpse of what life is like for those who live differently than I do. While this book is older, there are many similar groups of teens that have many of the same struggles that these teens do. It can be easy to get swept up in the hopelessness and futility that many lives are ended but there are some people who live with this all their lives. This book would be great for students in middle school but it would be more beneficial for the parents to read and discuss it with them.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan

Through his five-book series, Riordan brings ancient Greece loosely back to life. More than just a story, Riordan also teaches about the Greek gods and demigods. Taking place in present day, Percy Jackson and his fellow campers and demigods must save the world from the rising Titan, Kronos. Each year brings new challenges and a new piece of the prophecy thought to concern Percy. With all of the bad going on, Percy sees to find the good in life and remember what he is fighting for.

I really enjoyed this series. There are many positive attributes displayed by the characters: loyalty, courage, trying to do what is right, searching for truth, and respect for parents and teachers. Percy has personal struggles that he has to overcome and he does his best without giving up. Being easy to read, this book would be good for middle school students.

The Hangman's Curse by Frank Peretti

The Veritas Project was designed to discover truth in situations where traditional law enforcement and investigating methods were not or had not been effective. In a school in Washington State, several students were having symptoms of paranoia, babbling, loss of reason, and trouble controlling their muscles. The Veritas Project group arrived to assess the situation and started working undercover: the teens (Elijah and Elisha) as students, the mom (Sarah) as a researcher, and the dad (Nate) as a janitor. They found the students made a connection with a legend about the school with the students that were ill. While the rumors and “seen” evidence pointed to witchcraft, the family was not going to assume that’s the solution until they had all the facts. But time was running out when the next two victims’ illness progressed so quickly that they died before they were found.

This book is another call of attention to the necessity to treat one’s peers and surrounding people with respect. While bullying has always been a problem of mankind, the reactions of those hazed has been growing with alarming intensity. The author reminds us of how one can prevent bullying in schools and other areas without going to a lot of trouble. I would recommend this book. It does have some suspenseful parts and the cause of the illness my play on the fears of some people. Easy to read and understand, this book could be read by middle school students.

Far and Beyon' by Unity Dow

In Botswana, traditional customs of ancestors and educated, scientific ideas are in constant contradiction. While education means a better life for their children, parents are fearful of what the new ideas will do to their culture and impact their families in the long run. With AIDs spreading quickly, the new science provides ways to protect against infection but many of these ways are conflicting or questioned by tradition. The schools are overrun with rape and sexual harassment but tradition prevents speaking about or taking action against the assailants. To adequately paint a full picture of this struggling culture, Dow writes of Mara and her family; a family who all of these problems have become daily life. Through the strength they share with each other, they find their way in their changing world.

I enjoyed this book. Many different issues addressed in the book are present in our society but they are not legal and are to be reported. This view of the world different than my own is good to look at so that I can put my own life in perspective. This book would be appropriate for those in high school to read.

Looking for Alibrandi by Melina Marcheta

Living in Australia as the descendant of Italian immigrants, Josie is trying to find where she belongs. She doesn’t seem to fit very well at school and, at times, with her family. Her mother is a single parent and after school Josie must stay with her Nonna who constantly criticizes her. Once Josie starts to mature and see that her Nonna is a person who was young and in love at one time, their relationship begins to change. Josie begins to see her family, schoolmates, and close friends differently. Her last year of school brings about the culmination of her growth.

I enjoyed this book. Marcheta brings to light many different topics and situations that I have never experienced and reading this book has helped me to see a different point of view. It is difficult not to fall in love with the main character, Josie. It is easy to see parts of oneself in her as her spirit and search for belonging take place. With some of the topics (suicide, sex), I think that high schoolers could read this book but it might not be healthy for students younger to read it.

Confessions of a Good Christian Girl by Christina Maltby

Even after being saved by the blood of Christ, we are all human and still have problems and sin in our lives. Maltby brings to life many of the issues women struggle with in the area of sin or as a result of previous (or continuing) sin. She also brings to light the fact that no area of life is untouched when sin is present in one’s life. While her approach is almost “too honest,” it helps to bring the message home.

This book is good and has a lot of strong messages that should be heard. I liked many parts of this book and it could even be used to help a friend through a tough time. Some parts are hard to read when thinking of other peoples’ pain. Overall, this is a good book and I think that it might be good for girls in high school (or even middle school possibly) to read it and see how their lives could change in the matter of a moment.

Love and Respect by Emmerson Eggerichs

Fights between couples almost always boil down to the fight really being about Love and Respect. Eggerichs looks at different areas in life and how this topic interacts with those areas. Not only that, he gives a guide to both man and woman on how to better understand what is going on with the other person. He assures readers that implementing love and respect into the marriage will change the marriage for the better. When one spouse loves or respects, the other is motivated to reciprocate.

As a married person, this book has helped me to understand what my husband is looking for in our marriage. This book would be good not only for married couples but for those who are engaged or who are seriously thinking about marriage.

No More Lone Rangers by David Chow

Youth ministers often find themselves fighting a losing battle, and fighting that battle on their own. Besides youth meetings and the planning that goes with it, there are many demands that the parents and church expect the youth minister to fulfill. Chow’s solution is to find others to work alongside the youth minister. If the youth minister can organize and lead a group of volunteers to aid in building relationships with teens, running errands, preparing for lessons, and cleaning up then the youth minister will have more time to seek God and lead the teens in a discipling manner.

As a former youth minister, I can see how Chow’s ideas can be very practical and influential in the entire ministry. The more people there are working together on the same goal with the same way to get there, the more likely that goal will be achieved. This book is easy to read and could be applied to many different areas of ministry and organizations. It is also very easy to read and understand.

God Speaks Your Love Language by Gary Chapman

As an updated version of The Love Languages of God, Champman further brings home the ways that God can speak his love to us. Since God created the love languages and gave them to us, it reasons that he would use them to love us as well. Using many of the same thoughts from the previous book, he further explores the ideas that were first related in it.

It is interesting to see how God has impacted the lives of others; and how if we are wiling to see how he works in our own lives, we will see that he loves us very much. This book is easy to read and could be read by middle schoolers.

Darcy's Story by Jane Alymer

From Mr. Darcy’s point of view, this retelling of Pride and Prejudice captures what might have been his thoughts and actions away from the main story. Even if it is not exactly what Austen would have designed for Mr. Darcy, it is interesting to hear someone’s ideas of what he thought and did on his own time. Alymer attempts to reproduce language from that time to set the mood.

I enjoyed reading this book but yet it is not Austen. I have often wondered what was going on in Darcy’s mind when the book does not record it and this is Alymer’s rendition. It was very easy to read but is more enjoyable after reading Pride and Prejudice.

The Bloody Chamber by Angela Carter

Based on several of the legends and fairy tales that many of us grew up with, Carter puts a new perspective and twist on each, even combining some. From damsels in distress to werewolves, this collection of short stories keeps the reader surprised even to the end.

I enjoyed reading these versions of the originals that I love. This book is better for older readers with the sexual content. Even with that, this book brings very interesting ideas and thoughts to these beloved tales.

Boy Meets Girl by Joshua Harris

A continuation of I Kissed Dating Good-Bye, Harris puts the ideas into play in his own life. He takes us on his journey of meeting, courting, and marrying his wife. He tells not only his part of the story but also includes her part of the story.

This story is heart-moving and sincere. Once again, not all of the suggestions will work for everyone but the principles are at least worth reading. As with the other book, middle schoolers could understand this book.

I Kissed Dating Good-Bye by Joshua Harris

Broken hearts, sleepless nights, and unforeseen endings are just a few reasons that people often wonder if dating is really such a good idea. Joshua Harris takes on this topic with a new point of view. He suggests that having parents involved, starting out as friends, and not making premature promises can possibly be the change that is needed. These ideas, and others, can help the couple to not create emotional baggage that often remains from other styles of dating. Focusing on the important parts of the relationship before becoming emotionally and physically involved can help prevent problems later, even marriage takes place.

I agree with Harris that there are a lot of problems in how many people look at dating. At the same time, each person needs to figure out what works for themselves. This book would be a good read to look for suggestions and ideas. Since it is easy to read, anyone in middle school could understand this book.

Anne of Green Gables Series by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Touching the hearts of millions of girls has been accomplished by Lucy Maud Montgomery through this series and her other books. Readers meet Anne as an orphan who is looking for a home. She has a playful imagination that leads to trouble when unchecked. Anne grows and changes through the years but still has her happiness and joy in life to carry her through. She is always excited to find another “bosom” friend who understands her thoughts and shares her joy for life.

Anne of Green Gables starts this series and introduces us to Anne and all she has to offer in life. She grows into a young lady with dreams and hopes.

Anne of Avonlea includes more of Anne’s adventures in growing up. Anne takes on her first school teacher position and the many challenging students in the area. On top of that, she helps Marilla bring in two orphans that are loosely related to them. She discovers a wonderful new friend and a student ends up with a new family.

Anne of the Island brings us to a grown-up Anne who is off to Redmond College and ready to take on the world. With old friends and new, her adventures are truly “Anne-style.” Another part of growing up finally catches up with her with a marriage proposal, an engagement, and jealousy over Gilbert.

Anne of Windy Willows/Poplars is the name that Anne gave the house she lives at, waiting for Gilbert to finish his training to become a doctor. While there, she takes the position of principal at the local school. She struggles to make peace with the leading family in town. She comes to loves the house and the people in it, and finds a friend in the most unlikely person.

Anne’s House of Dreams is where Anne stores her dreams for her life with Gilbert. Moving there shortly after their wedding, their first couple of years are spent in this house that Anne brings life to in a series of brides that lived there. New friends and a new place to live, Anne always carries her spirit of joy and happiness wherever she goes.

Anne of Ingleside shows the growing pains that come with the changing of life situations. A long-term visiting relative puts everyone to the test. Anne and Gilbert have been happy for many years but Anne begins to wonder if he really sees her anymore.

Rainbow Valley introduces us more personally to Anne and Gilbert’s children as they grow up and become combinations of both parents yet retain something that is all their own. They have many adventures as children.

Rilla of Ingleside brings this series into reality with WWI. The family is shaken with the trouble in the world but they all strive to stay strong in the daily life of what must go on.

The Game On! Diet by Krista Vernoff and Az Ferguson

Need some extra motivation to kick-start or re-motivate you on your diet? This book gives guidelines of how to start a game with teams, with individuals, or on your own. Competing with daily scores and weekly weigh-ins, the game is won by points, not by weight lost. While there are bonus points for losing the weekly goal weight, the goal of the game is to establish healthy life habits such as drinking plenty of water, eating the right foods, and exercising regularly. By rewarding the daily tasks that are necessary to lose weight and establish a healthy lifestyle, it is much easier to keep the focus on being healthy and not just losing weight.

I like to see immediate results when I diet and exercise but often immediate results are not always what is healthy for my body. With this plan, I have 100 points to earn a day and that I can see when I add up my points throughout the day. I see results at the end of each day when I tally and report my total. Each day seems easier to follow the steps and guidelines. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking to establish healthy life habits, not just interested in losing weight. The book does have some language and some non-Christian thoughts but is overall good and gives knowledgeable advice on healthy living.

SHE by Rebecca St. James and Lynda Hunter Bjorklund

SHE stands for Safe, Healthy, and Empowerd. James and Bjorklund discuss the topics and issues that can keep women from being and feeling as they were created to be. From two different age groups, the topics they address are true of all ages of women. In all topics, they turn it back to how God can heal and help shape the life and perspective of the individual.

The topics the authors discuss can be of help to pre-teen girls and can possibly give them a stronger outlook as they approach the teen years. Probably the book could be read by someone around twelve. Or, if the girl is not ready to read it, the parents could read it and use it to guide discussions with their daughter.

Beverly Cleary Books

With easy to relate to characters, Beverly Cleary tells stories of children and pre-teens that many can identify with. She uses humor to let kids know that they can laugh at themselves and what they are struggling with won’t last forever. While it is easy to tell that some of the books are from past decades, they are still enjoyable and topics can still be understood. The life lessons these characters learn can help kids not feel lost and help them see ways to deal with problems.

Rebel with a Cause by Franklin Graham

Son of the famous Billy Graham, Franklin was looking for a place to fit. He didn’t hold the same ideals that his parents did. He liked living life to have fun. After some well-arranged events, he came face-to-face with the reality of Christ. While the change did not happen immediately, he soon found his place in Christ.

There is a lot of life-experience to learn about Franklin Graham. If looking to share it with someone, the two best age groups might be pre-teens and early twenties. It shows how God can come through a person’s rebellion and reach out to them.

Angels Series by Debbie Macomber

In this three-book series, the angels Shirley, Goodness, and Mercy are hoping to be able to help someone over the Christmas season. Gabriel is reluctant since these three have a history of playing on escalators and causing problems with other such modern conveniences. From widowers to the never married, these angels are just waiting to help people who are focused on other people but can’t seem to fix their own problems.

While these books are not biblically accurate, it is kind of fun to read them. With all the problems the angels have, they seem more human than heavenly. There is a little bad language in them, so the age to read them would depend on the person’s preference for their child. As far as content, middle school or high school would be fine to read these.

Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

A theologian in Germany before and during Hiter’s rise to power, Bonhoeffer taught and wrote about the way that the Christian community should function. Though he focuses on five different areas of Christian life, he reminds us that Christ is what ties us together and enables our lives together to grow us. He teaches that one must focus on Christ and their walk with Christ to resolve discord in life. Once unity in Christ has been reached in one’s own life and with those around, one must look to those who do not know Christ.

Translated from German, this book is often hard to read because of punctuation placement and paragraph changes. But, the words are full of meaning and instruction. The concepts are somewhat abstract. Someone in later high school and in college would enjoy this book. It may be best to read a little everyday in order to think on the truths Bonhoeffer relates.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson

As the yearly Christmas pageant rolled around, the Herdman kids decided to go to church. They smoked cigars in the bathroom (even the girls) and stole money out of the offering plate. After Mrs. Armstrong broke her leg, Beth’s mom has to take on the pageant. No one really expected the Herdmans to take an interest in the pageant but they did; and they threatened the other kids into letting them have the key parts. While this is not the traditional pageant, the message is brought through in a new way.

This is a good reminder that we can learn from the most unlikely people. Being easy to read and understand, children in second grade could probably read and enjoy this book.

Loving Homosexuals as Jesus Would by Chad Thompson

Homosexuality has been a long-running hot topic in the church. Most of the questions and concerns from people who mean well boil down to, “How do we reach people we don’t understand?” Thompson offers suggestions and ways to reach out to people that fit into this group. He hopes that this book will promote reaching out to those who need love and Christ. Thompson encourages Christians to be an example of love and for homosexuals to consider the love that Christ has for them. If Christians can show that their love is given with sacrifice, there will be more people who are willing to receive it. Thompson quotes John 15:13, “Greater love has no one but this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” At the same time, he does not encourage Christians to change their views on marriage or the lifestyle. He assures that once anyone sees that they are loved unconditionally, the views of the person loving them will not be so harsh because they have known Christ’s love.

This book does not promote homosexuality but love-Christ’s love. We all have sin in our lives and we would not want our community, our world, to push aside because of it. While not condoning the lifestyle, the church needs to find a way to reach out to people who are hurting-and this is one main people group. Everyone needs a safe place-why not a group of believers? I have read this book twice and have learned a lot each time and found it beneficial in not only my worldview but also in how I interact with people on a daily basis. It is pretty easy to read and I think that anyone in eighth grade would be able to read it, if they are ready for the topic maturity-wise.

Daniel by Beth Moore

So, this isn’t a book but it is a great study. Moore addresses the challenging life that Daniel and his friends had. Being Israelite captives in Babylon, they had the decision of living for God or deciding to live as those around them. They chose to live for God and Moore covers what struggles and difficult choices they had to make. Also, we are able to see how God was faithful to them and rewarded them for it. The second part of the study is prophetical and covers the second coming of Christ.

I did this study with a group about 2 years ago. It has 5 lessons to do during the week and the group study is a video and goes over the homework and prepares for the upcoming week. Moore asks participants to give up one area of our lives of excess for the study (getting nails done, spa treatment, something of choice).

90 Minutes in Heaven by Don Piper

After being declared for dead, Don Piper was left in his car until they were able to cut him out. A pastor passing by felt God prodding him to pray for the man trapped in the car. Climbing in the backseat, he was barely able to reach him, he prayed for the man in search of God’s will in the situation…and the man began to sing. He was taken to the hospital and underwent extensive surgery and had a long recovery. He suffered emotionally and spiritually, too. He recounts what he saw during that 90 minutes where he was dead and believes he had a glimpse of heaven. His biggest question was why God had let him see heaven and then bring him back to a life where he was suffering.

No matter if you believe that he died, went to heaven, and came back or not, this book is interesting to read and see how God worked in his life after the accident. There are a lot of different websites approving and unapproving of this book. I think a strong believer could read it as long as they realize it is not as if reading the Bible for truth. While Piper does believe that he saw heaven and God wants him to share his experience, there is a certain amount of reservation to keep in mind.

Julie by Catherine Marshall

Julie’s father decided to leave the ministry after several difficult ministries. He buys a small town newspaper and becomes the Editor. It soon becomes evident that certain people in the community have all the power and aren’t making decisions that are good for the community. Not only that, but they expect the paper to print only good articles about them. Caught in the middle, Julie’s family must decide to what extent they are willing to stand up to them.

Those who like Marshall’s Christy will like Julie. It covers small town life during the depression and what it was like in an industrial village. It is also easy to read and can be read in late elementary school.

The Love Languages of God by Gary Chapman

Based on The Five Love Languages, Chapman further explains in this book that God uses our personal love languages to communicate love to us also. While the original book is about love from human to human, this one covers the different ways that God can show love to us. The Five Love Languages are words of affirmation, physical touch (sexual and non sexual), quality time, gifts, and acts of service. While it can be hard to hear God, this book can help one see where God maybe speaking.

Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti by Bill & Pam Farrell

Ever have trouble understanding your spouse? Well, you are not alone! The Farrells discuss a major difference in men and women-how they think. They give real-life examples and practical solutions on working through the difficulties. While this concept is more and more common, the first place I heard it. This funny and resourceful book is great for anyone in contact with the opposite sex.

Mr. Darcy's Diary by Amanda Grange

Basically, this is Pride and Prejudice in Mr. Darcy’s point of view recorded in his diary.

Grange does her best to duplicate the language used in Pride and Prejudice but it still has a modern overtone. It is an easier reading level. I would recommend it to any P&P fan…it’s not quite the real thing but fun to read.

Twilight Series by Stephanie Meyer

Bella moved to rainy Forks, Washington, to live with her father to give her mother and new step-father the chance to travel for his career. She is a loner by nature but eventually makes friends. She is attracted to the Cullen family, especially Edward, but he seems to avoid being near her. She soon learns his secret and he allows her to be close. The rest of the series is about the world that is not human and the troubles they have in being together.

While this series is easy to get wrapped up in, it is clear that Bella fosters an unhealthy attachment to Edward. She pulls dangerous stunts, many of which are not logical even by romantic or self-sacrificing standards. Not only does she cling to Edward but she often leads Jacob to believe that he may have a chance with her. She is cruel to both of these guys when she is forced to decide between them. Also, vampires sparkle in the Twilight series; this is the only place in literature that they do this. With all of this combined, even with them books being easy to read, I would not recommend middle schoolers or younger reading this without an adult to discuss the topics.

Steal Away by Jennifer Armstrong

As the years pass, Susannah and Bethlehem decide to write down their experiences of running away from the plantation. Susannah was sent their to live with her uncle after her parents died falling though the ice in their pond. She was not used to slaves and was against the idea, thinking it strange that her uncle who was a minister approved of them and kept many on his land. Bethlehem was one of the slaves that was on the plantation. Susannah’s cousin used to keep Bethlehem as her personal slave but gave her to Susannah upon her arrival. Through their time together, they decide to strike out on their own, seeking freedom.

The Civil War Era is of great interest to many and this story gives a different twist. It shows the then and the later mindsets that people had towards slavery. Yet, Armstrong handles the topic honestly but tactfully to bring the story to the reader. This book could be read by third graders and older.

Voices After Midnight by Richard Peck

While on summer vacation in New York, Heidi, Chad, and Luke find themselves ending up in 1888 in their apartment. While their parents are off about town, the three siblings learn about the family that originally lived in the house and the tragedy that took place. They wonder if they should interfere, what the outcome would be, and if they would be able to get back to their own time.

Time travel is interesting and this is a great introduction to it. It has adventure but is not too overwhelming. It would be good for any elementary student to read.

Christy by Catherine Marshall

Eager to do her share helping people, Christy Huddleston left her family in North Carolina for the mountain people of West Virginia. She encountered many struggles in working with this group of people who seemed to be more than a century behind the rest of the world. Between feuds and superstitions, Christy has a hard time showing God’s love to the people.

Inspired by Catherine Marshall’s mother, this book relates events and people who are strangers to us today. This book is easy to read and could be read as young as late elementary school. There is a children’s series based off of the TV show that is easier to read, breaking down the novel into smaller pieces.

Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson

After the death of his parents and on the verge of adulthood, David Balfour sets out to find his uncle who is his only known relative. Although his Uncle Ebenezer is not welcoming, David has no idea what he has planned. His adventures are greatly impacted by all the unrest in Scotland as he travels and tries to get back what belongs to him from his uncle.

This book would be great for any reader who loves adventure. Its history is accurate and is brought to life through David’s travels. Anyone in eighth grade or older would probably enjoy this book.

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

In a time that is not our own but not too distant in the future, information is provided only by the government. People commit suicide but no one questions why but merely medicate the people so they recover, to do it again. Firemen don’t put out fires, they start them and burn books by them. Guy Montag, the fireman whose story we follow, has always questioned how things are in the subconscious of his mind. After meeting his free-thinking neighbor Clarisse, Guy gives more thought to the questions he has had all along. His thinking gives him ideas that start to change the course of his life.

Of all the books that discuss the world going bad, this is my favorite. I have always enjoyed Bradbury’s writing. This one appeals to me because of the treasure that books become. The book is a good warning to pay attention to what is going on around us and to protect the freedoms that we have so that we can continue to think for our selves. This book, because of some of the topics, should be read by those in high school and older.

Every Woman's Battle by Shannon Ethridge

This series of books is companion to Every Man’s Battle by Stephen Arterburn. Shannon addresses where women struggle, and not just waiting for marriage to have sex. She addresses many topics that trouble women today: appearance, body type, self-esteem, relationships, and others; she also explains how they work together with our relationship with God.

This book would be great for a woman’s Bible Study, a new believer’s class for women, and other similar groups. For pre-teens and younger teens, a great companion for this subject is Preparing Your Daughter for a Woman’s Greatest Battle, also by Shannon Ethridge. This book is great in coaching parents how to talk to their daughter(s) about these tough topics.

Where the Buffalo Roam by Anne Matthews

The author addresses a new theory of making profit off of the plains. With weather being unsettled and so many factors in producing profitable crops, there are those who are thinking of buffalo. Known as bison in North America, they have proven their longevity and survivability over thousands of years. There are several different levels suggested: from raising buffalos and farming to opening up the plains states and allowing the buffalo to roam again.

While this discussion is still in the beginning stages, it is interesting to read thoughts on not only trying to improve the land to produce better crops but also to helping the buffalo regain its numbers. Anyone who is interested in this or related topics would enjoy the thoughts the author presents in this book.

Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman

Birdy’s father is trying to find a husband for her. He is greedy and selfish, and trying to find the richest man, even if he is the least appealing to her. Birdy uses her cunning and is able to escape several suitors. But, the wealthiest of them all arrives seeking a wife. Birdy knows that this one will be the toughest one of all to get rid of.

There are several elements to this book that make for good reading. With this book taking place in a world different than our own, it brings alive the religious beliefs and medical treatments in that day. It is easy to read and understand. I would recommend it to girls who are in late elementary school or middle school.

Animal Farm by George Orwell

The animals on Manor Farm have had enough. Farmer Jones has been lazy, negligent, and just plain horrible at being a farmer. They think that everyone should be equal to each other. As they set up their new form of “government,” it becomes clear that they have merely gotten rid of a dictator for another oppressive ruler.

This book is often read for a class in middle or high school. It can be read in early middle school but the combination of abstract thinking and history that is hinted may make it difficult to understand for the young reader. If they have someone to read and explain, I think it would be successful!

Hatchet Series by Gary Paulsen

Brian receives a hatchet from his mom the morning he is to leave to visit his dad. His mom thought he might be able to use it on the trip. While on the small airplane, being the only passenger, the pilot gives him a basic flying lesson. Soon after, the pilot seems to be feeling sick and becomes unconscious. Brian takes over flying and is forced to crash land. The book continues as he learns to survive in the wilderness and continues to hope for rescue as winter approaches.

Brian’s Winter continues the series with the question, “What if Brian had to spend the winter alone in the wilderness?”

In The River, Brian receives a contract to demonstrate how he survived in the wilderness. This will kick-start a program to train astronauts and military personnel to survive in the wilderness. An unforeseen problem causes mayhem and leaves the group to the knowledge that Brian gained on his original stay.

Brian’s Return is the official sequel to the Hatchet. Brian struggles with living in society again after being on his own in the wilderness. He returns to the woods to find where he belongs.

I haven’t read Brian’s Return yet but I have read the others. These books are suspenseful and take the reader on a journey of survival. It is easy to put oneself in Brian’s place and wonder what one would do. I would recommend them to third or fourth graders and older students. I remember my fourth grade teacher start reading Hatchet to our class after lunch on our first day of school.

The Prairie Legacy Series by Janette Oke

This series centers around Virginia, granddaughter of Marty (from the Love Comes Softly Series). The four books in the series relates the difficulties of her growing up and trying to find her way, yet trying to follow in her family’s footsteps of faith. She meets Jenny, who will greatly impact her life throughout the books. She struggles through early marriage with her mother-in-law living with the new couple. But through the heartache and pain of growing up, Virginia finds herself enjoying time with her mother and grandmother, who share words of wisdom.

I would not recommend reading this series unless the Love Comes Softly Series has already been read. There are many characters and situations referred to that would be confusing and may not make any sense. I do recommend reading it. It is more modern than many of the other books. Many people will find these enjoyable starting in fifth or sixth grade.

Agatha Christie Mysteries

Nearly four billion books sold, Agatha Christie is one of the most famous mystery writes with a lasting legacy. She has four main detectives that star in her books-Hercule Poirot, Miss Jane Marple, and Tommy and Tuppence (whose actual names are not well-known). The books have taken new forms in movies, plays, graphic novels, and video games. Christie’s mysteries get down to the mess of life and discover who the murderer is. She often can keep the reader guessing “who dun it” to the very end, where the detective relates the solution.

Even though these books can be graphic about the murder and what goes on in real life, there is a grace in how Christie writes it. She writes eloquently but respects the frame of mind of the reader. Her descriptions of poisons and how murders are committed are quite accurate but does not give directions of how to do it. The books are fairly easy to read, with some British culture and slang thrown in. I am sure that someone in high school or late middle school would find these enjoyable in the challenge to figure out the mystery.

Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen

Throughout centuries, one of the greatest ambitions is to find a mate. Austen relates to us a certain English family with five daughters and a conscientious mother who is determined to seek out men for her daughters; and encourages their silliness in flirting. While the oldest two daughters have manners and propriety, the younger three are quite silly: one is so philosophical that no man will ever look at her and the other two are so lacking in manners that they are destined to disgrace the family. In spite of all of this, Austen brings through the idea that those who are proper and seek a mate for love and not just to be married will truly find happiness.

I would recommend this book to anyone who would want to read it. It is written in older English but the language flows so smoothly and beautifully once you get into the rhythm of it. Probably someone who is in middle school could probably read this.

Ghost Cadet-Elaine Marie Alphin

When Benjy and his sister Fran are sent to their grandmother’s in Virginia for spring break, they are not sure what to expect. They never would have imagined Miss to be spunky, lively, and strong. While she disproves of their father’s actions, she takes them in as family. While exploring some of the historical sites, Benjy discovers a link to the past that no one would believe him. Through this link, Benjy realizes that he is capable of more than he once thought he was.

This book would be great for late elementary students and middle school students. It has adventure mixed with history. It does have a Southern spin on it but this is good for discussion and seeing a side that people don’t always get to see.

Twenty & Ten by Claire Huchet Bishop

Just as Nazi occupation of France became a realization, ten Jewish children sought safety at a small French school. With the students agreeing to keep them safe and not tell anyone, the Jewish children were granted safety. This meant many sacrifices for the children who were already living in a country lacking provisions, money, and were tight on rations. To keep the Nazis from suspecting, they spit the rations even more to include the Jewish children. They shared beds, blankets, and all that they had. It seemed to be going well until the headmistress went to town for supplies. While she was gone, several Nazi soldiers appeared and questioned the children.

While the author takes on a difficult subject, this book is quite appropriate for children to begin learning about WWII. It is easy to read and understand. While I would suggest that parents would read and discuss it with their children (especially if they have not been exposed to the subject), it could be easily read by early elementary school children.

The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame

Toad is well known for his flamboyant lifestyle and conceited attitude. He moves from one past time to another, ranging from riding horses to driving motor-cars. His reckless behavior often leads to loss and injury to others; sometimes injury for himself. Once he discards a hobby, the remains of it are merely stashed upon the land left to him by his father. Mole, Water Rat, and Badger do their very best to help Toad see his destructive ways but merely appeases them for the time. After being increasingly conceited, a decision not well thought out leads him to his lowest point. Once again, his friends are there to help him dig his way back out.

This book is easy to read and the story moves quickly. Kids in elementary school would enjoy this and it might be a good first “no picture” book. There are some more difficult words but it would merely help them increase their vocabulary.

Ordering Your Private World by Gordon MacDonald

Being in ministry takes a lot of balancing and a lot of giving. MacDonald gives his story of when everything was out of order in his world. Through his experience, he found a way that he can keep things in balance and still have time for his personal time with God. While this book is written primarily for those in ministry, the model can be applied to anyone. The discussion questions at the end of each chapter make it possible to read the book as a group study or for individual study. It is a good prevention book and also a book of hope if life is already out of control.

Questions You Can't Ask Your Mama About Sex-Gross & Foster

The title might be offending to parents who take time to talk with their children but this book covers the “hot topics” of sex in our world today. The authors discuss these topics in a respectful and informative way. Teens today often have a skewed view of sex and this book is an abbreviated answer to it. The authors, once pastors, tackle the topic through seminars, software, and their online website (XXXchurch). This book gives their views, based on the Bible, of the different topics and gives teens and young adults a place to start in their understanding of God’s intention for sex.

I think that this book would be good for middle schoolers and up. It is easy to read and understand. Although, for families where parents have a good relationship with their children, it would probably be good for the parents to read it with the middle schoolers and high schoolers. Parents could also use it as a guide of things to talk about with the kids especially since it gives logically reasons and Biblical support.

Second Guessing God by Brian Jones

In this book, Brian Jones uses examples from his own life to explain that we often wonder when God is going to act, or even at all. Also through his life-examples, he reminds us that we often don’t give God enough credit. God has timing that we don’t understand and often find ourselves impatient waiting on Him. A pre-release sampler used the phrase (a paraphrase), “God often works upstream from our current situation,” and uses the Israelites crossing the Jordan as an example.

I think that this book would be good for middle school-aged and older. It is easy to read and understand. It could even be helpful for older elementary kids who are searching out God’s answers to difficult questions if they have someone to read with them and discuss it.

The Love Comes Softly Series by Janette Oke

Marty left home with her husband in search of a new life. When they had nearly arrived at their destination, tragedy strikes and is left alone without a home and winter on the way. Through a “marriage of convenience,” she receives the necessities for life and learns of a new way of life through her new family. From there, the series continues and includes stories of her children and friends.

This series is easy to read and promotes family, respect for adults, faith, and living responsibly for one’s self and for others. I think most could be able to read these in fifth or sixth grade quite easily. These uplifting tales of faith bring hope to many people.

The Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling

An orphan and subjected into servitude by his only living relatives, Harry Potter finds himself with a grim future. On his eleventh birthday, he receives a surprise that will change his expectations of the future. His eyes are opened to a new world and learns about his parents and his past, which his relatives had been striving to keep secret. The story continues as he learns of his greatest enemy, who still wants to destroy him.

Not too long ago, this series was one of the hottest topics in teen and young adult literature. Many are still hesitant to recommend or even approve of these books. This series promotes friendship, loyalty, self-sacrifice, and doing what is right even if you are the only one. I really enjoyed these books and even felt uplifted by them when good conquered evil. If you are not sure about your child reading them, read them first by yourself or read them with your child. I would recommend not letting kids read them by themselves before middle school. Also, evil becomes much darker (and good even brighter) in the later books, so read with caution with younger children.

Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

This strange but short tale is a good reminder of what happens if one would become part of the experiment one is conducting. Dr. Jekyll is a workaholic who experiments on himself and experiences what it would be like to be someone very unlike himself. As the story continues, Dr. Jekyll finds himself being less who he once was and becoming like himself in a totally different way. Wonderfully written, the reader can easily become wrapped up in every turn.

The reading in this story is not too difficult but in dealing with some of the subject matter, I would say someone in 6^th grade could possibly read this book if accompanied by a trusted adult. There are some tense scenes that could cause strange dreams but for me, the odd dreams were worth it!

The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis

This collection of tales was written for his goddaughter Lucy. In them, we learn of a land, called Narnia, where animals talk as we do and time moves differently. The land is ruled by kings and queens. These kinds and queens answer to Aslan; who rules many worlds and is above other rulers. Each book contains another journey in Aslan’s plan to help the land of Narnia (and its surrounding lands) flourish and live according to moral code. Every hero has an enemy and the chance to choose evil. Through this series, we see the creation of a world, the journey the people in the world have taken, and the end of world that has served its purpose.

I remember my Mama reading these books to my sister and me when we were kids. They were good before bedtime and naps, although sometimes we had to read two chapters instead of one when there was an action scene! The series is great for all ages and might be fun as family reading. They are pretty easy to understand. Strong readers in Third grade could possibly read them on their own; although a parent might want to read alongside or have previously read it to discuss, even just for fun!

The series contains seven books, whose reading order is often disputed. Should one read according to the order in which C. S. Lewis wrote them or in the order in which they were published? Both orders can be found online. I personally have read them in both orders and prefer the order that Lewis wrote them. As my aunt says, “It is the magic order!”

Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis

This book is complied from radio talks C.S. Lewis did. Through these talks, he identified man’s need for a being bigger than themselves. Not only was this being needed in creation but now the being wants to build a relationship with each person created. The book moves through the process that C.S. Lewis took intellectually to find God. Once an atheist, his reasoning and other factors along his search, he was able to find faith in God.

There is information packed into every sentence and takes a while to digest. This book is great for believers and non-believers alike. While the information is not bad for children to be exposed to, there is quite a bit of abstract thinking required to follow the book. Someone who has not reached that point will find it difficult to keep reading. The ability to think abstractly in this way usually develops later high school and through college. Although, someone younger could possibly attempt if they had someone older to read along with them.

My Goal

This idea of mine started as a "daydream" two years ago. I was working with middle school and high school military youth and realized that many of them truly enjoyed reading but they didn't always know where to turn for the next book. My idea grew further when parents began to ask if I knew the books that their kids were reading and what the books were like. I realized that there was a need for book reviews to be accessible to parents and students alike on all kinds of books. The catch is that there are reviews out there but not the type of reviews that they are looking for. My goal in this blog to make positive and negative recommendations on books based on a few points: overall morality, ideas communicated about family and self, and whether this book promotes positive or negative overtone. I am a Christian and will see the books through this filter but I am not here to promote purely Christian books. I will try to evaluate these books as honestly and fairly as possible. I do not have an English or literature degree. I have hope that books can provide teens and parents another interest to have in common, or find one for the first time.