The Shack | February Book Club

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Buy the Book * Watch the Trailer * Buy the Soundtrack

Special Preview Showing March 2nd, hosted by Delilah! Get your tickets HERE!!!

My February Book Club pick is a New York Times best selling novel many of you may be familiar with, The Shack, by William P. Young.

It’s one of my FAVORITE books and has been adapted into a major motion picture coming out on March 3rd. Sam Worthington and Octavia Spencer star in the movie, which also features my friend Tim McGraw.

Since the movie will be here soon, I decided it was a great time to pick it up and give it another read. 

It was just as thought provoking and fantastic as the first (several) times I read it! Did I mention it was one of my favorite books, ever?!

At the center of the story is Mack Phillips who has experienced a tragic loss. A deep depression ensues and he finds himself questioning the very basis of his existence, his purpose, and experiencing a profound crisis of faith.

Led to an abandoned shack enveloped within the towering coniferous forests of Oregon’s Cascade wilderness by a letter that appears 4 years after the tragedy, Mack has doubts but decides to make the journey. There, he meets a woman with the odd name of “Papa” and two more strangers that initially leave him filled with even more confusion.

Yet through the experience Mack not only rediscovers himself, but takes to heart lessons of love, loss, and forgiveness, leaving with an understanding of how to live again after the unspeakable happened; walking out of the gloom and into the light.

Tim and Faith lend their voices to the soundtrack with “Keep Your Eyes On Me” written and performed by this beautiful couple. Listen to the song and watch the movie trailer HERE.

Pick it up, give it a read, then go see the movie when it comes out March 3rd!

Special Preview Showing March 2nd, hosted by Delilah! Get your tickets HERE!!!

Buy the Book * Watch the Trailer * Buy the Soundtrack
 

How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind | January Book Club

I've got a great new book for January's Book Club!

How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind: Dealing with Your House's Dirty Little Secrets
by Dana K. White, Creator of A Slob Comes Clean

Available at Thomas Nelson!
and Amazon

For those who truly know me, or who have ever been to my home, they know clutter is an everyday reality.

I won't say I "struggle" with it, because I have come to accept (for the most part) that having 18 children between my husband and I, a gaggle of grandchildren, foreign exchange students, friends who need a place to stay, a farm to run, etc. etc., comes with clutter. Lots and lots and lots of clutter. But at some point I have to say "Enough!"

When I pack away Christmas, it's always a good time to take stock and get rid of things I don't need or use. Somehow taking down the tree brings on a cleaning bug that makes my tidy temperment extend to the rest of the house.

My January Book Club pick couldn't come at a better time! Dana White's How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind is a fantastic guide for bringing your home out of the mess and learning how to keep it under control!

“The dirty little secret about most organizing advice is that it’s written by organized people,” says blogger, speaker, and decluttering expert White. “But that’s not how my brain works. I’m lost on page three.”

A Slob Comes Clean is Dana's blog, which chronicles her successes and failures with her self-described “deslobification process.” I'm told that at first she used the name “Nony” (short for aNONYmous), because she was embarrassed about sharing what a disaster her home had become.

With How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind, Dana K. White has truly come clean. No longer a silly pseudonym, White shares her name and the strategies she's developed, tested, and proved in her own home.

She now knows how to reclaim space, the habits that make the largest impact, and how to keep the clutter under control... and she's willing to pass on all her tips, tricks, and secrets to those of us who still have challenges to overcome.

I appreciate her REALITY-BASED cleaning and organizing techniques. We are not robots. Life happens. White gets this. She debunks the biggest housekeeping fantasies and helps readers learn what really works in real homes, with real people (not Pintrest Peeps.)

Here's a step-by-step process with strategies for getting rid of enormous amounts of stuff in a little time. Start your New Year off with a clean counter and move on from there!

How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind is available at
Thomas Nelson
Amazon

Brush of Wings | May Book Club

BRUSH OF WINGS from bestselling author, Karen Kingsbury

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury comes the third novel in the unforgettable Angels Walking series.  BRUSH OF WINGS tells the story of divine intervention and the trials and triumphs of life for a group of friends. BRUSH OF WINGS is a poignant tale of love, sacrifice, and the power of faith. 

What a wonderful book and an inspiration to us all about following your heart. The main character, Mary Catherine has such a heart for the children of Africa, as do I. Despite needing a heart transplant and against the advice of her doctor, Mary Catherine moves to Uganda to work at a new orphanage.  The people in her life don’t want her to leave, they fear for her health. Her walking angels are busier than ever in this epic battle between life and death. Brush of Wings is a poignant tale of love, sacrifice, and the power of faith.

“Fresh Pick” - FreshFiction.com

"Another hit ... un-put-downable." Starred Review - Library Journal

“Kingsbury peels back the layers of dimensions to allow readers to believe there are angels amongst us, and that they guide us, protect us and, most importantly, pray for us.” - RT Book Reviews (Romantic Times) who also ranked Brush of Wings as a Top Pick

“I greatly enjoy Karen Kingsbury's writing talent and creativity. She knows how to mix real possibilities with fiction to create very, believable novels. Brush of Wings is the third book in her Angels Walking Series. The graphic description of the invisible good versus evil surrounding each of us at all times gave me goose bumps." www.ChristianFictionReviews.com

CLICK HERE to purchase Brush of Wings.

 

The Longing in Me | April Book Club

My April Book Club selection comes from bestselling author and Bible teacher, Sheila Walsh. Her brand new book The Longing in Me helps us find out why we keep making the same mistakes.   

Sheila speaks candidly about the trials in her life, including the heartache of her first marriage, and intertwines her story with the stories from the Bible. Through these stories she makes clear that some cravings are misguided, but they all stem from the same hunger—and they will haunt you until that hunger gets satisfied properly. 

If you find yourself constantly reaching out to the wrong people at the wrong times in your own life, The Longing in Me will help you understand that your cravings are not the problem. It’s where they lead you that makes all the difference. Click here to find a wonderful video about the book. 

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CLICK HERE to purchase The Longing in Me.

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Reviews and Recommendations:

“Raw honesty” - Jen Hatmaker, author and TV host

“Touches the heart” - Max Lucado, author

“Sheila has an amazing ability to communicate the freedom and joy that are yours in Jesus, no matter who you are or what you might have gone through in life” - Judah Smith, Author & Pastor

“Be forever changed" - Bobbie Houston, Senior Pastor of the Hillsong Church in Sydney, Australia

Just Keep Breathing | March Book Club

There is an insightful book out now from the acclaimed speaker, Reggie Dabbs.  He is one of the most sought after public speakers, who specialize in speaking to children in school.  The book is “Just Keep Breathing” and it is in stores now.

Reggie was a product of the foster care system, raised by amazing parents.  He speaks to kids with humor, compassion and experience.  His book “Just Keep Breathing” is a reflection of what can happen to some of our forgotten youth.  “Just Keep Breathing” gives a voice to young people and advice to the adults in their lives that may be helping them navigate through those tough years. The book contains real life experience shared with Reggie and his honest responses.  You will find “Just Keep Breathing” both honest and inspirational.  Since I share with you often the joys of having foster children I wanted to share this book with you. Learn more here.

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CLICK HERE to purchase Just Keep Breathing.

Elle & Coach | February Book Club

When you listen to my show you know I have a special love for children and animals, after all I have 13 children and I live on a farm.  What better than a memoir of love and one special animal for February? This month’s Book Club pick is a Mom’s memoir about is about a wonderful young girl, Elle and her amazing service dog Coach.  An endearing true story of a Type-A mom struggling to care for a daughter who has Type 1 diabetes– Elle & Coach highlights how patience, love, and courage … plus a very special service dog named Coach – conquers almost all.  

When her oldest daughter, eight-year-old Elle, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Stefany Shaheen confronted a terrifying new reality: without constant monitoring and treatment, Elle could face grim consequences, even death. Elle, a vibrant young girl who refuses to be limited by this disease, devoted herself to the fight to find a cure—a journey that brought her face-to-face with top scientists and doctors and all the way to the White House. Enter Coach a lovable yellow lab determined to make Elle’s life better.  Elle & Coach reminds us of the power of the human-animal connection, and the profound nature of a mother’s love for her daughter.  Ella & Coach is a must read for readers of all ages!!  

Find the book here http://bit.ly/E-Cbn or the author’s site: http://www.elleandcoach.com/buy/

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"Much more than a heartwarming story about a triumphant little girl and her amazing dog. It's a book about never giving up hope." – Michael J. Fox, Actor, Advocate

“Coach has shown Elle that diabetes is not a battle she has to manage alone but an opponent they can tackle together.” – People.com

"A must-read—not just for parents of children with chronic illnesses, but for any parent who's ever wished to make life easier for a child who is struggling with something daunting.  As the mom of a son who faced multiple surgeries during his childhood, I was deeply moved by Elle's experiences—and inspired by the beacon of hope that her service dog provides.  I have a feeling this book is going to change a lot of lives for the better." – Jodi Picoult, New York Times bestselling author of My Sister’s Keeper and Leaving Time

"About finding hope in the most unlikely of places.” - Modern Dog magazine

Strong and Kind | January Book Club

My January book club selection has something for every parent. 

The new book Strong and Kind: And Other Important Character Traits Your Child Needs to Succeed from Korie Robertson points out how teaching our children to have both good character and strength are the most important tools in guiding our children to their adult lives. Without being preachy or finger pointing Korie Robertson gives advice through example.  A quick and easy read Strong and Kind is a perfect book to get the New Year started off right!

Korie Robertson, New York Times bestselling author and mother of five – argues that developing good character in our children is the single most important thing we can do to help ensure they lead happy, healthy adult lives.  Robertson explores key traits and what they truly look like in action.  She shares hands-on ways for nurturing strength of character.  Written with her mother, Chrys Howard, and featuring stories and wisdom from her husband, Strong and Kind cuts through parenting manuals of today to rediscover, unfold, and embrace the enduring wisdom that has guided the best parents for centuries.  Korie shares principles—based on biblical wisdom and time-tested practices—that will help you parent your own one-of-a-kind child.

CLICK HERE to purchase Strong and Kind. 

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Reviews:

"Korie’s commentary on being an 'intentional parent' was insightful, and two of my favorite sections were 'Patience and Contentment' and 'The Value of Being Kind.' I am also glad that Korie included a section highlighting three fun games to play with your kids."  –Oak Tree Reviews 

"Reading Strong and Kind is like having a cup of coffee with Korie and Willie while listening to their wisdom from twenty years of parenting. The author didn’t fill it with boring facts or statistics. Nor did she come across as a Ms. Know It All in her advice. They came across a down home country folks just sharing their hearts on the matter of raising our kids to be upstanding citizens in this crazy world we’re living in." –TidbitsOfExperience.com 

"Ultimately, Strong and Kind, filled with real life stories from Korie and Willie’s parenting journey, is a straightforward, gently instructive call to not just be the best parents you can be, but also the best people you can be." –14-in-2014.com

 

The Girl From the Train | December Book Club

The Girl From the Train is a wonderful selection for my December book club! 

The perfect book to curl up with in front of a roaring fire with a cup of hot tea!! Set during the harrowing, final moments of World War II and full of historical detail. Irma Joubert, international bestselling author offers a haunting and deeply human portrait of the ravages of war and the resilience of the human spirit. The Girl From the Train is a captivating story of redemption and hope and unexpected joy.  One you will want to share with your friends and book club.

The Girl From the Train is an extraordinary story of international scope and human triumph that comes to life through the bright eyes of a young, orphan girl named Gretl as she learns to navigate a world that has been laid waste by the cruelties of a war she cannot comprehend but must nevertheless endure.  As the daughter of a fallen German SS officer and a Jewish mother, Gretl struggles with these complex issues of identity and must adapt within a uniquely dangerous position in the war-torn world in which she lives. She must adjust her language, background, names, and religion in order to survive while grappling with the universally human emotions and changes of growing up into adulthood.

CLICK HERE to purchase The Girl from the Train

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Reviews:

"Readers will adore intrepid Gretl and strong Jakob in this story of war, redemption and Love" –Publishers Weekly

"Richly imagined and masterfully told, a love story so moving it will leave you breathless. And deeply satisfied."  -Tamera Alexander, bestselling author of To Win Her Favor and The Inheritance

"Joubert, masterfully crafts every scene with tenderness and hauntingly accurate detail. It’s  a stunning coming-of-age novel that packs emotion in a delicate weave of hope, faith-and the very best of love" -Kristy Cambron, author of The Butterfly and the Violin and A Sparrow in Terezin

"A fresh voice and a masterpiece I could not put down-one I will long remember." -Cathy Gohike, Christy Award winning author of Secrets She Kept and Saving Amelie

Sandcastle Kings | November Book Club

The holidays are just around the corner and so many books are about religion and God.  In my November book club selection, Sandcastle Kings.  Rich Wilkerson uses powerful stories from the bible and relates them to everyday life and how we can truly find happiness in this very crazy world.  

The world seems to have figured out the formula for manufacturing material success, but when it comes to finding true, lasting happiness, we are as lost as ever. We yearn for more, or less, or something that's just different from what we have right now. Deep down we know there must be satisfaction for our longing. We just don't know where to find it.

In Sandcastle Kings, Rich Wilkerson uses four powerful stories from the seventh chapter of Luke to explain why spiritual fulfillment cannot be found in ourselves, in other people, in material things, or even in religion. Wilkerson wants you to understand that the only answer for your spiritual bankruptcy is Jesus and that until you turn to him you we may never experience the lasting peace and joy that we all hope and pray for.

CLICK HERE to purchase Sandcastle Kings.

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Rich Wilkerson makes religion cool. Especially for the millennial generation which is so busy living in a past-paced, tech-driven world that sometimes they forget to look up from their smartphones and be inspired.  And that's exactly what Rich does, he inspires us to always make time for faith, no matter how busy we are, and he does it in the most relatable, entertaining way. It's like having a best friend who can guide you through struggles, heartache and life's biggest worries. He constantly amazes me with his love of all people and his genuine desire to help us all.  He is the real deal. 

-Guiliana Rancic, Host of E! News, Fashion Police, and author of the New York Times Bestseller Going Off Script

Pastor Rich is one of those rare people who always lights up the room and makes everyone feel like a priority. His optimistic advice and his passion for the Word of God are contagious. He has had such a positive and enlightening influence on my family; we are so blessed to call him our Pastor and our friend.

- Kim Kardashian West

"Thank you, Rich, for revealing this truth that we are all sandcastle kings. This book is a powerful reminder that God is our one true source for solid ground. While material things crumble away, God's firm foundation remains! It's time for us to drop our shovels and allow Jesus to take over."

-Christine Caine, Founder A21 Campaign & Propel Women

"Growing up with Rich I knew he would impact people but I underestimated by how much. I witnessed him writing some of this book on a vacation when he sat down and couldn't type all his thoughts out fast enough. I knew he was on to something and after reading Sandcastle Kings, he delivered. I'm glad he gave up some of that trip to remind us about the importance of life's foundations. I'm forever changed."

-Jason Kennedy, E! News Co-Host

"Rich has a voice for this time and this generation. He writes and speaks with clarity and passion. If you long to know you're building your life on a foundation that will last-read this book!"

-Sheila Walsh

Ghost Boy | October Book Club

Written By: Martin Pistorius

They all thought he was gone. But he was alive and trapped inside his own body for ten years.

In January 1988 Martin Pistorius, aged twelve, fell inexplicably sick. First he lost his voice and stopped eating. Then he slept constantly and shunned human contact. Doctors were mystified. Within eighteen months he was mute and wheelchair-bound. Martin's parents were told an unknown degenerative disease left him with the mind of a baby and less than two years to live.

Martin was moved to care centers for severely disabled children. The stress and heartache shook his parents’ marriage and their family to the core. Their boy was gone. Or so they thought.

Ghost Boy is the heart-wrenching story of one boy’s return to life through the power of love and faith. In these pages, readers see a parent’s resilience, the consequences of misdiagnosis, abuse at the hands of cruel caretakers, and the unthinkable duration of Martin’s mental alertness betrayed by his lifeless body.

We also see a life reclaimed—a business created, a new love kindled—all from a wheelchair. Martin's emergence from his own darkness invites us to celebrate our own lives and fight for a better life for others.

Martin Pistorius was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1975.  At the age of twelve, an unknown illness left him wheelchair bound and unable to speak, and he spent fourteen years in institutions.  In 2001, he learned to communicate via computer, make friends and change his life.  In 2008 he met the love of his life, Joanna, and immigrated to the UK.  In 2009 they married, and in 2010 he started his own business.  He loves spending time with friends and, most of all, being with his wife.

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Interview reel:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJpQvIf54nU
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"A deeply affecting and at times shocking book... The Diving Bell and The Butterfly but with a happy ending." - The Sunday Times

"Martin’s writing makes you feel what he feels. He vividly reminds us of all those little injustices we each experienced that help us to grow and be stronger because of them. He reminds us that we all can grow from life’s twists if we choose to do so. Most important, Martin Pistorius shows us that God really does not give us more than we can handle, but rather he gives us the opportunity to meet adversity head on and overcome it no matter what the challenge. Read Ghost Boy. It really is a “page turner” and you will be a better person for experiencing Martin Pistorius’ life." - Michael Hingson, New York Times best-selling author, Thunder Dog

"Ghost Boy is a book to open our minds and our hearts." - Sue Swenson, former US commissioner for developmental disabilities

"It's impossible to read this book without understanding just how much most of us take for granted." - John-Paul Flintoff, author, How To Change The World