I heard one time that from the first page, a good writer grabs you by the throat and doesn't let the reader go. Mary DeMuth does this effectively in Daisy Chain. Right from the start when a little girl goes missing, the tension builds. The mystery of her disappearance intertwines with the coming-of-age story about Jed, a 14-year old boy who saw Daisy last. To say Mary writes multi-dimensional characters would be an understatement. No person is ever painted black or white, good or evil, but with many shades of gray with the promise of good prevailing and bad will get its due punishment.
At times, this book so gripped my heart I had to lay it down, but could not forget the characters who had also made their way into my heart. In short order, I picked it up again to cheer Jed on in his quest to find Daisy and to find hope in spite of his father's hypocrisy and abuse.
Mary is a down-to-earth writer of realism, dedicated to truth and authentic living, and this book rings authentic and real. Although there is a secondary character who serves as a loving father figure, I would have liked to have seen a pastor in that role, but perhaps that's because I am a pastor's wife. The only other note – this is the first novel in a trilogy, so plot points are not tied up in a neat box. But then again – when is life ever so sweetly packaged?
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In 50 Daily Meditations on the Seven Letters of Revelation 2-3, Sam Storms has carefully researched and written a book relevant to today's Christian. He presents information logically, expounding more explicitly with each succeeding chapter. Thought-provoking questions lead the reader to a deeper understanding of Jesus' message to the seven churches and how it relates to the Church today, and more specifically, to every believer. Mr. Storms faithfully quotes multiple scripture passages to validate his assertions.
I cried out to God in prayer many times as I read this book and meditated on its teachings. Chapter 9 analyzes why God allows suffering and even death for His Name's sake. The best description I've ever read of what eternity will be like for a Christian is on page 97. I've read that one page many times and rejoiced.
This book is a must-read. ]]>
I thought a book about the brain might be dry and technical. Wrong. Dr. Earl Henslin writes This Is Your Brain on Joy with a splendid sense of humor. He poses a question in Chapter One for people of faith. Why should anyone want what we believe if it doesn't make us deeply, joyful people? It took ten years of research before the good doctor felt ready to share his findings. In this book, he offers specific therapies for specific problems. Dr. Henslin's treatment plans include recommendations for supplements, medications, foods, music, exercise, and even cinematherapy. To round out the program, he includes scriptures and prayers to nurture spiritual growth.
Dr. Henslin explains the treatment plans and how the brain works in everyday language. Photos, diagrams, and charts are helpful and using alliteration and clever names for complex scientific terms helped me better understand the process. The entire program is designed so that you can begin today to change your brain into a happier, more peaceful one – a brain on joy. ]]>
Donna
said "yes" to attending the event: Greater Harvest Workshops - a Day for Writers .
date: February 28, 2009 08:30AM
location: Resurrection Lutheran Church, 1270 N. Broadway , Lebanon, OH, The United States
description: Have you always wanted to write but haven’t known where to start?
Is it your desire to write articles and devotionals for magazines and books?
Have you written a book, or would like to, but have no idea what step to take next?
Has fear paralyzed you and kept you from writing or submitting your pieces?
Greater Harvest Workshops are designed to move you closer to your goal of becoming a working writer and published author. Taught by Donna Shepherd, an author and speake...more
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