tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6840213208496450902024-02-29T21:41:38.320-08:00Book TalkHOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.comBlogger235125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-17130786119586194042024-02-13T12:15:00.000-08:002024-02-13T12:38:58.153-08:00He Knows Your Name <p> <span> </span><span class="x193iq5w">Working in a
bookstore means that you have many options for your next book.
This can be influenced by cover or title, author however sometimes it only takes a quick
scan of the introduction to seal the deal. That is how started reading <b><i>He
Knows Your Name</i></b> by Paige Allen, the subtitle <b><i>How 7 Nameless Women
of the Bible Reveal Christ's Love For You</i></b>, caught my attention but the
introduction had me hooked.</span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span class="x193iq5w"><i>But
now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O
Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are
mine. Isaiah 43:1</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdFwmKb3ERmFQlG7fuu30iVoJaTUbT8z_ukxaWJhatncr8cVvHPX6Qc5Yr3oixY5W3A0QJlPVlA4dpMRsis7aB87PMEupvgPPw98uzMm4u_P0GQXz7JNjqQhOUC7PnMOQEt9Q0G6JDR8GQ6v1p3fUTTGyP_l9FArTC2S_elT-XrNGnaFVMyuaScGR7xoTx/s1200/he%20knows.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="776" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdFwmKb3ERmFQlG7fuu30iVoJaTUbT8z_ukxaWJhatncr8cVvHPX6Qc5Yr3oixY5W3A0QJlPVlA4dpMRsis7aB87PMEupvgPPw98uzMm4u_P0GQXz7JNjqQhOUC7PnMOQEt9Q0G6JDR8GQ6v1p3fUTTGyP_l9FArTC2S_elT-XrNGnaFVMyuaScGR7xoTx/w129-h200/he%20knows.jpg" width="129" /></a></div><span class="x193iq5w"><span> </span>Regardless
of where we are in life, woman (and men) long to be loved and appreciated, yet
so often can feel invisible even with the promise of God's presence and
salvation. Allen's book invites us to take a look at the life changing moments
of 7 unnamed women in the Bible encountered when they came face to face with
Jesus. I will admit that growing up I never really gave much thought to the
idea that many women of the Bible were not named. These women (and their
stories) made it into God's Word so they were obviously important,
but why? As I read, Allen's ability to weave personal stories along with
Biblical truths allowed me to clearly see how these women were known and loved
by Jesus. Although the world around them did not know their names, Christ did,
He called them daughter.<br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36pt;"><span class="a-size-base">When thinking of our identity, we know that God’s word tells us we are precious
and worthy but it can be difficult to fully digest and believe at times. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Allen says, “</span>I believe we are in a
season where God wants His daughters (and sons) to wake up to the truth that He
knows us better than we know ourselves. He sees, He listens, He comes close,
and He understands”<span class="a-size-base"> and she does an amazing job of
outlining those truths through her thoughtful and relatable prose. The stories
she shares are both funny and touching, now that I have read through it once I
think I will go back with my pretty purple highlighter and spend a bit more time
with these women as I</span><span class="x193iq5w"> gain a deeper understanding
of what they endured, why the stories were told and the love that they felt by
being both seen and loved by Christ. I am so glad that I picked this book up,
it was a wonderful read that gave me opportunity to take a deeper look at who I
am and how God sees me, even when I feel anonymous. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I look forward to seeing what she writes next.
What is on your reading pile this week?</span></p>
HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-39778567550321033802023-07-04T16:53:00.001-07:002023-07-04T16:53:56.727-07:00Year of Jubilee by Cindy Morgan<p style="text-align: left;"><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=9781496475985&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy43Ip7hs6TsWCvfSfslNPuNFh0dke0VFGEcgJx6goMuBnHEUgKPMxMCPc7QzZBXHlv-CDZ9QUmKRB-7hmz3DYVuwGqazAbt4uIrAA4h0MjCMVCcVJ4oXqXvYvJFBlOEBfLk9ZadnymG6F4zbsjncBSWaRHqQ1nj1DCaMHOTT9aADyLv0uCxEncBJgjW9n/s320/Year%20of%20Jubilee.jpg" width="213" /></a></i></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">"Grace Mockingbird is an independent 13-year old girl growing up in the tumultuous southern town of Jubilee, Kentucky. This is the time of integration, and most folks around her seem dead set against change. Not her mixed-heritage father, though. And not her brave new teacher, Miss Adams, who speaks about equality in a way that Grace has never heard before. This is a coming-of-age story as well as a heart wrenching and harrowing example of how God can grow beauty from sorrow, and how often we misjudge those around us. Forgiveness also plays a big part in this story; Grace struggles with the lack of forgiveness and love she receives from her mother, and even has a hard time forgiving God when her beloved younger brother suddenly falls ill. Her family attempts to maintain normality as their relationships wear thin amidst both the racism and violence outside the house, and the emotional struggles going on within. This book gripped me right from the prologue, and although at first I wasn't sure what kind of voice the author was going for, in the end I was hooked and grew very attached to the characters and world that Cindy Morgan built. It's important to note that with the story being set in 1960's America, it contains some dark themes, crude words, and heavy conversations. This era of change is an important part of America's history and is portrayed realistically. Overall, 'The Year of Jubilee' is a fast-paced and charming book that leaves the reader with the lingering warmth of a Kentucky summer on their skin and the heartening feeling that change is possible, no matter how heavy the storm."</span></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Reviewed by Erin</span></span><br /></p>HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-77893777464955608902019-07-25T15:09:00.001-07:002019-07-25T15:09:19.129-07:00Birds of Pray<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPmj2C-1G2hP79md540_7Nm9uCoOvCAaQ3kyqeTOe8fPL9ne69VfICoHPQ_nRGyIrUMV04Vapc3XzVota7SKdbjVgjDGtyE9uSaa2dHw5Zf1TQ4Y4ekWVGCL5W2jV4-shA2GYs__sWv3z/s1600/birds+of+pray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="267" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPmj2C-1G2hP79md540_7Nm9uCoOvCAaQ3kyqeTOe8fPL9ne69VfICoHPQ_nRGyIrUMV04Vapc3XzVota7SKdbjVgjDGtyE9uSaa2dHw5Zf1TQ4Y4ekWVGCL5W2jV4-shA2GYs__sWv3z/s400/birds+of+pray.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
We have a new reviewer in the house! Twelve-year-old Logan Klassen, grandson of Barb, (she's been here for over 20 years!) who loves to read, has wanted to review some books for us and we're very excited about that!<br />
Some things to know about Logan are: he goes to Abbotsford Christian School and is in grade 7. He LOVES sports and dreams of one day being a sportscaster (I've heard he's very good at it already). He's involved in ball hockey, basketball, volleyball, cross country and track! <br />
<br />
"In 2017, when the Eagles (being the underdogs), won the Super Bowl, the team had many Christians on their team and they prayed regularly as a team. The team grew closer because of their faith. This book is good for sports fans who would like to read how faith and prayer can have a positive effect on a team."<br />
<br />
-Logan Klassen-<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Birds of Pray </i>by Rob Maaddi, visit us in store or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=birds+of+pray&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. <br />
HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-24513594697333450632019-07-02T17:23:00.000-07:002019-07-02T17:23:34.934-07:00Camp Average<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71m0i-y2%2B2L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="563" height="320" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71m0i-y2%2B2L.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Why be number one when you can be number two?</i><br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sports summer camp Camp Average (officially Camp Avalon) loves to boast about being in second place. Their team chant is “we’re number two!”. They never win at any sport, and Mack and the other boys of cabin 10 are quite happy with it that way. But this summer is different. This summer, they have new camp director, and this guy is hyper competitive and has one goal for their camp: to win. In an attempt to reclaim their easy going summer routine, Mack tries to lead the whole camp in a rebellion of utter failure. The boys will have to work together, and push through the torturous training Winston insists on putting them through in order to win back their Camp Average fun.<br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I picked up this book at the recommendation of a customer, and it was well worth it. Craig Battle, a Canadian author who has written for OWL magazine and has worked as a camp counselor, writes a great story. While I am in no way a sports fan, I found myself getting pulled into the boys story and the hi-jinks, plotting, pranks and struggles that ensued. The boys of the cabin are well varied in character and can appeal to a wide variety of readers. Battle’s writing is simple, concise but clear, and does an excellent job of conveying enough for the reader to have a vivid picture of the campers and their camp life without being overly wordy. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For a kid struggling to get into reading, or someone who loves a good sports story, I recommend this fun Canadian read. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">--Lauryssa--</span><br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Camp Average</i> by Craig Battle, visit us in store, or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=9781771473057&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-57195492259751059492019-06-03T14:52:00.003-07:002019-06-03T14:52:53.511-07:00Far Side of the Sea<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
Colin Mabry was briefly introduced in Kate Breslin's other WWI novel <i>Not By Sight</i> as the brother of Grace, that novels' heroine. In that story, he goes missing in action in the chaos of the European front.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAB2k8E8TCKF93j4-SB18V5to7uybtSJZr_R1y8Cgt52k4amdIX6e2NXYDbso_HgENPg_G_wtWCS2pjvdhj1oWCvnKNdO5Rs8tteE0jx5i_RTeuDgldDNY8c9xD0u3Bpm-en1uBaKManX4/s1600/far+side+of+the+sea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="259" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAB2k8E8TCKF93j4-SB18V5to7uybtSJZr_R1y8Cgt52k4amdIX6e2NXYDbso_HgENPg_G_wtWCS2pjvdhj1oWCvnKNdO5Rs8tteE0jx5i_RTeuDgldDNY8c9xD0u3Bpm-en1uBaKManX4/s400/far+side+of+the+sea.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>
Picking up several months later, we find Colin attempting to come to terms with his new reality as an amputee; having lost his left hand in a tunnel collapse and haunted by memories of the terror he experienced. Colin is tasked with decoding messages delivered by carrier pigeons from France and he is shocked to receive a missive from Jewel (the woman responsible for once risking her life to save his, and one he long thought lost). Gathering the tattered remnants of his courage, Colin returns to France, determined to keep his youthful promise to rescue Jewel from the horrors of war.<br />
<br />
But instead of Jewel, another woman awaits him in Paris--Jewel's half-sister Johanna, who is determined to find her long-lost sister with the help of the soldier who had once captured her sister's affections. Convinced her sister is in the clutches of a German spy, Johanna is desperate for Colin's help to find and free her sister. Colin reluctantly agrees to become Johanna's ally, and the two embark on a quest to find Jewel across France and Spain. But Johanna's fervor to find her remaining family, conceals secrets of her own. Ones if revealed, would threaten the tenuous connection building between herself and Colin.<br />
<br />
This book is a combination of stunning historical detail, (the pieces regarding carrier pigeon use during WWI are fascinating) full of action, adventure, suspense, mystery and romance. Breslin seamlessly weaves together all of those elements, leaving you frantic to read the pages as quickly has possible. The emotional themes Breslin deal with in these pages are gutting; (i.e. PTSD, illegitimacy, violent rebellion) and in lesser hands would risk seeming melodramatic of cheap. But Kate Breslin is a master at unraveling emotional turmoil and depth with nuance and compassion, leading her characters through their respective valleys toward hope and restoration.<br />
<br />
I loved the characters and how their faith and stumbles helped them grow and change throughout the story. Despite his disabilities and the challenges those pose to him in his everyday life, Colin forges through, trusting God is good even when things seem dark. A lesson we all need to be reminded of.<br />
<br />
--Candace--<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Far Side of the Sea</i> by Kate Breslin, visit us in store, or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=far+side+of+the+sea&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. <br />
<br />
<br />HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-12651908331563541202019-05-18T15:16:00.003-07:002019-05-18T15:16:37.892-07:00Within These Lines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsmSK3krHcBZ_aCbzY2C2hv3s0Qd_oCqa6vKa80TIVQ8A-tK1VH4iJpKHFCdJPT8fy-ZCAUmzja4jROtPYDgLOm8J-pVcrrWOyr33suGGTQaTh7WGfC3xg_71O5qLDhMoZeqt4Dot_hUQ/s1600/lines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="262" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsmSK3krHcBZ_aCbzY2C2hv3s0Qd_oCqa6vKa80TIVQ8A-tK1VH4iJpKHFCdJPT8fy-ZCAUmzja4jROtPYDgLOm8J-pVcrrWOyr33suGGTQaTh7WGfC3xg_71O5qLDhMoZeqt4Dot_hUQ/s400/lines.jpg" width="261" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How can someone be loyal to a country that has cast him out? How can love survive when all the odds stand against it? How can goodness prevail when those fighting for freedom also violate the virtue they've gone to war to protect? </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In 1941, Evalina Cassano is an Italian American teenager living in San Francisco. Her family owns a very successful restaurant and she has a bright future ahead of her after being accepted to attend Berkley. But the heart wants what the heart wants and hers belongs to a young Japanese American boy named Taichi Hamasaki, the son of the produce farmers that help supply her parents’ restaurant. The relationship is difficult enough as it is, but on December 7th, the Japanese struck Pearl Harbor and overnight America develops an anti-Japanese sentiment. As the days continue, his family volunteers to go to Manzanar Internment Camp for the duration of the war. Communicating via letters, they at first seem sure their love will survive the separation. But Taichi's life in the camp is far from okay.</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I found it tremendously moving to see how Taichi, his family, and the other brave Japanese families worked to maintain a sense of dignity and order and community in the midst of terribly heartbreaking conditions.</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i> Within These Lines</i> deals with many things, but mainly daily life in internment camps. I knew a little bit of what life was like in internment camps during this time, but this book shines a light on the living conditions, the day-to-day activities, and the conflicting beliefs of the interned people throughout the camp. It was incredibly heartbreaking and often hard to read at times. But very important. This is one of the only times I’ve seen books approach this topic so closely and so raw and near to the matter, and I love that the book wasn’t shrouded in depression and darkness, but rather in hope – even though the situation was full of despair.</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This quote from the book resonated with me, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"As the brilliant sunset cools to gray, I vow my anger over blatant discrimination will not cool. As these rocks stay steady through season changes and time, so I will remain steady. I will not be silent. I will not let this go.”</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Stories like this remind me not to judge neighbors based on fear and assumptions. Stories like this inspire me to be courageously compassionate, fiercely loyal, and graciously determined. And stories like this remind me that holding to one's convictions and moral compass is always the right course of action, even when your pride is bruised and your loyalty tested.</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">-- Candace -- </span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For more information on <i>Within These Lines </i>by Stephanie Morrill, visit us in store, or visit our website<a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=within+these+lines&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword"> here </a>. </span></span></div>
HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-8492351667754539162019-04-25T16:45:00.000-07:002019-04-30T16:38:57.658-07:00Of Fire and Lions<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-oXD_s7rdMVEKU0fiKYsv9-5vMQ-S2cXQFwJBAm_bB8hYRe8ZsMxsUvJup10tbvyTbVpe_BEGmBeZCs16mOZFsCSfbDGxlnx_iUCY4Nk0X4czdBR0NVuGJJVmgRpfZfu466oqpA5dxRU/s1600/lions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="267" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-oXD_s7rdMVEKU0fiKYsv9-5vMQ-S2cXQFwJBAm_bB8hYRe8ZsMxsUvJup10tbvyTbVpe_BEGmBeZCs16mOZFsCSfbDGxlnx_iUCY4Nk0X4czdBR0NVuGJJVmgRpfZfu466oqpA5dxRU/s400/lions.jpg" width="266" /></a>A little fun fact about me: I absolutely love the book of Daniel. Everything about that wonderful little book gets me so excited. Seeing how Daniel <i>resolved </i>to follow God in chapter 1 and seeing that same choice to have faith throughout the whole book despite everything that happened to him and his friends, inspires me to be like Daniel and have a faith like his. And it is so chock-full of God's sovereignty and his goodness and mercy towards Israel and Babylonians alike. It's just so great (even those prophesies)! I also just got done doing a Precept study on the book of Daniel. So imagine my excitement when I found out that Mesu Andrews' new book was about Daniel!<br />
<br />
Mesu Andrews (or her publishers) did such a good job at summarizing and leaving one wanting to know more on the back the book without giving <i>anything</i> away. So I'm just going to put that here for you because I don't want to give anything away either!<br />
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<i>"Belili wears her children's disdain like a heavy cloak. The weight of their contempt threatens to crush her spirit, but she has perfected the art of survival. She first learned it when she escaped death nearly seventy years ago after the Babylonians ransacked Jerusalem and took its finest young people as captives. Years later she survived among idol worshipers and in King Nebuchadnezzar's court by donning an identity that shrouded her with guilt and shame.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>She's kept secrets from Daniel, her childhood friend and the lover of her life, but as the Medo-Persian army invades, the thread of Belili's deception unravels and her tightly wound secrets begin to unfurl. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>When tensions mount in the land of their exile, Belili will do anything to keep her family safe even though each step leads them closer to the truth. Will Daniel die in a pit of lions before she can make things right between them? Or will the God who rescued Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego save her husband and replace her spirit of heaviness with a garment of praise?" </i><br />
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If you've read her other books and loved them, then you'll enjoy this book as well. Andrews is a great story teller and makes it impossible to stop reading.<br />
<br />
--Elise F--<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Of Fire and Lions</i> by Mesu Andrews, visit us in store or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=of+fire+and+lions&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>.<br />
<br />HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-53550297128627274052019-04-09T14:24:00.001-07:002019-04-09T14:24:58.019-07:00Between Two Shores<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpbNpbM2E0JHcsE_nRRsenrlYYjvxKmckHTyj4CdK9hYNo35UJcjJ1vY10JnOUabHYEKl1SDgFBg0PjMlLYsLFuhXFPZWNMGZ-Ur6Y1kueJJ04AlFa2rYGzngUn2I-DcHqajPO5ns0Og3/s1600/between+2+shores.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="259" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpbNpbM2E0JHcsE_nRRsenrlYYjvxKmckHTyj4CdK9hYNo35UJcjJ1vY10JnOUabHYEKl1SDgFBg0PjMlLYsLFuhXFPZWNMGZ-Ur6Y1kueJJ04AlFa2rYGzngUn2I-DcHqajPO5ns0Og3/s400/between+2+shores.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>
<i>"She has always moved between worlds, but now she must choose a side..." </i><br />
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Jocelyn Green's third novel again follows the french theme. But this time taking place in North America in 1759 Montreal during the Seven Years' War between Great Britain, France, and the native tribes surrounding the Montreal and Colonies area. I've really enjoyed her previous books and I couldn't wait to pick this one up as well.<br />
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Catherine Duval would rather remain neutral than to pick a side. Trading to both the French and the British, Catherine is suddenly thrown into the war when her ex-fiance, Samuel Crane, shows up and is taken prisoner by her father. Claiming to have information that could help end the war, Samuel asks Catherine for her help to escape since she knows the way to Quebec, but she's hesitant. Conflicted on whether or not to help the man who broke her heart, Catherine knows that New France is starving and cannot survive another winter with no food, Catherine agrees.<br />
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And drama and intrigue ensues.<br />
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I was surprised by the fact that this book was taking me longer to get through than her other two books (<i>Mark of the King </i>and <i>A Refuge Assured</i>), both of which I've written reviews for, when the plot suddenly twisted and my doubts and disappointments disappeared. Jocelyn Green writes so well. Each time I've kinda expected these books to all be very similar (you know, conflict happens, girl meets boy, girl marries boy, then the end) but they are all very different. There is the tease of a romance, but that's not the central focus of the book and BOY, it was like a breath of fresh air.<br />
<br />
--Elise F--<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Between Two Shores </i>by Jocelyn Green, visit us in store or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=between+two+shores&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>.<br />
<br />HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-63921052335491445822019-03-21T09:09:00.000-07:002019-03-29T15:36:08.867-07:00The Log Driver's Waltz<a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=ULpFLNJxI5abXZaqDBrBhQ" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="336" height="320" src="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=ULpFLNJxI5abXZaqDBrBhQ" width="268" /></a> I was so excited when I saw they had made a picture book version of
the Log Driver's Waltz. I grew up listening to the playful, whimsical
song from the 1979 original short film, and I couldn't wait to get my
hands on this book. <br />
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<div>
The story is about a
young girl whose parents want her to marry someone respectable and
well-to-do - a doctor, a merchant, or a lawyer - but she is in love with
a log driver, who woos her with his talent for dancing - a talent he
has developed driving logs. It is a charming, lighthearted story that
brings history to life.</div>
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<div>
Jennifer Phelen has
outdone herself with the illustrations. Her style combines elements of
the 1920's - both city and country - and the 1970's, when the original
film was created, and the pictures perfectly match the style of the
song. There are some precious details that add an extra sweetness to the
story, like the log driver checking his reflection in a waterfall
before the dance. While this picture book would be delightful for any
child, it would make a great addition to a classroom, or to complement a
children's study of Canadian history.<br />
<br />
-Aliah-<br />
<br />
For more information on "<i>The Log Driver's Waltz</i>" by Wade Hemsworth, visit us in store or visit our website <a href="https://houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=wade+hemsworth&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. </div>
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To listen to the song (and sing along with the book if you have it!) follow this link:<br />
<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v%3DupsZZ2s3xv8&source=gmail&ust=1544723068367000&usg=AFQjCNEwCs6aW9RkXOQ9zdIKOCsI26eYQw" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upsZZ2s3xv8" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?<wbr></wbr>v=upsZZ2s3xv8</a><br />
</div>
HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-59187883518157950152019-03-02T17:44:00.000-08:002019-03-02T17:44:00.545-08:00Maid<a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=2-gUryvjjJ9wRpGP-Kg82A" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="265" height="320" src="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=2-gUryvjjJ9wRpGP-Kg82A" width="212" /></a><br />
Stephanie Land almost broke my tear ducts with her memoir. <i>Maid</i> is a crucial, desperate, important installment in showing that people in poverty are some of the hardest working, least appreciated, most disadvantaged people in our society. The next time I hear someone say people in poverty are lazy, I hope I can recommend this book to them.<br />
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<i> Maid</i>:<i> Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother's Will to Survive</i> <br />
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Stephanie Land is a single mother struggling to escape domestic abuse, to keep custody of the child her partner never wanted but fights her for at every turn, and to provide enough for her daughter so they can at least survive. She narrates a messy, belittling, dehumanizing journey of food stamps that never provide enough food, homeless shelters that can't offer proper shelter, and low-income housing that could be ripped away at the merest threat of a $50 emergency.<br />
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"Struggling to make ends meet" is probably the most passive, deplorable, understatement one could apply to this woman's life. Throughout the memoir, Land takes painstaking creative steps to illustrate the sheer reality: she's not making ends meet at all. She rations her coffee in the morning to quell her hunger so that her daughter can have more to eat. She can't afford produce unless it's below a certain price-point, but the middle-class shoppers at the grocery store vocally harass her for buying less nutritious food - the only food that she can afford - and for making them wait longer because of her food stamps. The amount of times other shoppers shout "You're welcome!" at her because she's using food stamps from the government, funded by taxpayer money, is atrocious. <br />
<br />
At one point, Land and her daughter are using eight different government programs at once, just to survive. The way that the various government programs operate, qualifying for one may disqualify her for another. If she makes slightly more money from her multiple part-time (minimum-wage) jobs, that extra pocket change could tip her over the edge and disqualify her for another program or two, leaving her scrambling again the next month. The system is built in such a way that it beats her down and keeps her there, and I don't know where she finds the will to beat it back, but she does, in a white-knuckled, teeth-gritted kind of way <br />
<br />
<i> Maid</i> is a stepping stone to addressing and erasing the stigma around people in poverty; to establishing the compassion and empathy we need to work towards a better world. I'd recommend it to anyone, but especially to the middle-class and the rich - the more financially privileged people in society.<br />
<br />
--Elise T.--<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Maid</i> by Stephanie Land, visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=9780316454506+&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>.<br />
<br />HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-7677730144555879282019-02-20T14:49:00.000-08:002019-03-02T17:43:48.896-08:00The Curse of Misty Wayfair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=1WydHIMlQZeylnQ2PdF3XA" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="259" height="320" src="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=1WydHIMlQZeylnQ2PdF3XA" width="207" /></a></div>
<div>
Questions of identity, family conflict, wondering whether God
cares, and ghostly apparitions popping up in windows to scare your socks
off... </div>
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<div>
I love Jamie Jo Wright. She writes creepy in a truly wonderful
way.</div>
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<div>
Much in the style of her debut novel, <i>The House on Foster Hill</i> (read my review on that <a href="http://blog.houseofjames.com/2018/03/the-house-on-foster-hill.html">here</a>), <i>The Curse of Misty Wayfair</i> is written split between two timelines - 1908 and present day. Between Thea Reed, lonely orphan and postmortem photographer on the search to find her mother, and Heidi Lane, visiting her own mother who struggles with dementia, Jaime Jo Wright spins another brilliantly frightening novel. The curse of Misty Wayfair is an unexplained phenomenon lingering over a place called Pleasant Valley, where both characters seem to find their way home. An old, questionable asylum in the woods and sightings of a woman long-believed dead - in both timelines - make for a chilling and terrific tale of mysteries, relationships, mental illness, and old family secrets.</div>
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I found myself drawn by Thea Reed and her adventurous spirit, and Heidi Lane amidst her bouts of anxiety and panic attacks. The characters compelled me, the dark shadows and voices whispering in the woods scared me out of my pants, and the two timelines pulled me along in a riveting twirl and dance that I couldn't put down.</div>
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I'd recommend this for adults, teens, and young adults alike -- anyone who likes a little bit of a thrill, a chill, and classic campfire ghost stories.</div>
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--Elise T.--</div>
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<div>
For more information on <i>The Curse of Misty Wayfair</i> by Jaime Jo Wright, visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=9780764230301+&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>.</div>
HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-70076038573362681772019-02-04T14:37:00.000-08:002019-02-04T14:37:55.755-08:00Before We Were Yours<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1Iq2iJE72gWXlwsPc06Rlt1Rv6XdUXV74fs0Fdo62QJ2E-cGJ1P5rMOkgkQxSgsno_WwqnFwoC_FFlbUSN1J596U6jaRD_6uMiORBEC4EXwvO0pVe8ZgjzF8xWpjm0YHEWUeLJliRlie/s1600/before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="262" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1Iq2iJE72gWXlwsPc06Rlt1Rv6XdUXV74fs0Fdo62QJ2E-cGJ1P5rMOkgkQxSgsno_WwqnFwoC_FFlbUSN1J596U6jaRD_6uMiORBEC4EXwvO0pVe8ZgjzF8xWpjm0YHEWUeLJliRlie/s400/before.jpg" width="261" /></a>"Did you know that in this land of the free and home of the brave there is a great baby market? And the securities which change hands...are not mere engraved slips of paper promising certain financial dividends, but live, kicking, flesh-and-blood babies." --From the Article "The Baby Market<i>," </i><br />
<i>The Saturday Evening Post, </i>February 1, 1930.<br />
<br />
This book made me feel <i>A L L </i>the feels.<br />
<br />
I can't believe this book is based on fact. I had never ever heard of
Georgia Tann, the woman who pioneered child trafficking in America
during the Great Depression, and all that she got away with...makes me
so angry and breaks my heart all at once. Although the children in this
book didn't actually exist, their stories are based on real stories
from real survivors of Georgia Tann's children's home. <br />
<br />
The book follows present day Avery Stafford and twelve-year-old Rill Foss. Rill and her four younger siblings: Camellia, Lark, Fern, and Gabion, grow up on the river in a shanty boat. We enter her story in August 1939 when her mother and father leave them to go to the hospital, telling them to not leave the boat and stay hidden. The next day, thinking it's their parents, they are stolen away being told that they are going to visit their parents later. But Rill knows better. Rill and her siblings end up in the Tennessee Children's Home Society, run by Georgia Tann, where they are beaten, neglected and separated.<br />
<br />
Flash-forward to the present day and we meet Avery Stafford. Daughter of a senator, engaged to her childhood best friend, and a successful lawyer, Avery believes she has it all. Until the day she visits a nursing home and meets May Crandall, who believes her to be someone else. Avery soon gets swept up in old family history, unraveling her grandmother Judy's past and begins to question on whether or not what she's believed she's always wanted is <i>actually</i> what she wants.<br />
<br />
I <i>loved </i>this book and everything about it. It was one that I was sad to finish. The characters came to life on the page and their story made it impossible for me to put down. While reading, I had to remind myself to slow down, but when I wasn't reading, all I wanted to be doing was reading...so reading slowly didn't happen. It doesn't surprise me at all that this book has been a number one seller for over a year. Lisa Wingate really out did herself on this one. It's not always easy to jump from past to present day, but she did it seamlessly.<br />
<br />
<br />
--Elise F.<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Before We Were Yours </i>by Lisa Wingate, visit us in store or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=before+we+were+yours&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. <br />
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<br />HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-45810065751483231072019-01-26T17:54:00.000-08:002019-01-26T19:20:12.013-08:00Educated<br />
You know it was a great book when, after you finished it days ago, you find yourself still thinking about it. I'm at a loss for words. It has been ages since a book has affected me like this emotionally.<br />
I've got no flowery language, no qualms, nothing. All I really have to say is <i>wow.</i> <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UMqMlYDTpURssWtJr1RqwNmDODcoUgjMt3gR00xqzTljtNH0CVTccu3F7AHmgiWCK_ioYNkcWwWAIJIG7VwKK4TkEsThUHJDw5ZQUYdvBugMFb4KDT9_iwrm8XsbL0ao0vYgMS6EMJvA/s1600/educated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="252" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UMqMlYDTpURssWtJr1RqwNmDODcoUgjMt3gR00xqzTljtNH0CVTccu3F7AHmgiWCK_ioYNkcWwWAIJIG7VwKK4TkEsThUHJDw5ZQUYdvBugMFb4KDT9_iwrm8XsbL0ao0vYgMS6EMJvA/s400/educated.jpg" width="250" /></a><i>Educated </i>is the memoir of Tara Westover, who didn't step foot into a classroom until she was seventeen. Born to survivalist Morman parents in the mountains of Idaho, she grew up preparing for the end days by sleeping with a "head for the hills" bag and spending summers canning anything they could. Her father forbade hospitals, so Tara never saw a nurse or a doctor. Serious injuries were treated at home by her mother, a self-taught midwife and herbalist. And because they were so isolated from anyone, there was no one to intervene when one of her older brothers became violent or when her father became even more extreme in his beliefs. Then, lacking any formal education, Tara began to teach herself math and grammar. Which lead her to being admitted to Brigham Young University in Utah, then to Cambridge, then to Harvard, and then back to Cambridge to receive a PhD in History. It's amazing. <br />
<br />
I can't tell you how many times this story made my jaw drop. Everything about this story is shocking; how her parents could ignore the abuse that was happening under their roof, for one example, is beyond me. And then go so far as to disown Tara instead of dealing with their son is appalling. Author Claire Dederer says this about Tara's memoir and it explains how I felt so well: <i>"A punch to the gut, a slow burn, a savage indictment, a love letter.... Rarely have I read a book that made me so uncomfortable, so enraged, and at the same time to utterly entirely absorbed. I loved this book, and this woman"</i>. The way Tara writes her story, I think, is what I loved the most. For someone who has literally gone through hell, she doesn't write about her experience in a bitter tone at all. Being so isolated as her family was, there was <i>nobody</i> around long enough to tell her what was happening wasn't even close to being okay, and that's how she writes. She didn't know any different. How could she have? And it doesn't end happy either. To this day, her parents still won't see her. And of her seven siblings, she's close to three. <br />
<br />
My goal this year is to read more non-fiction. And to be honest, I'm a little upset that this was the first book that I've read not only this year, but within my goal, because I honestly don't know how anything I'm going to read now is going to top it. This book was <i>that </i>good.<br />
<br />
--Elise F-- <br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Educated </i>by Tara Westover, visit us in store or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=educated+&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. <br />
<br />HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-60106436358019426542019-01-18T16:26:00.004-08:002019-03-02T17:43:40.342-08:00The Color of Lies<a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=WMT7aNiIq47_VpXUlEZ31g" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="256" height="320" src="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=WMT7aNiIq47_VpXUlEZ31g" width="204" /></a> Far be it from me to sneer at a title where they spell [colour] without the 'u'. Unusually enough, it wasn't the title of this one, or even the cover, that drew me. It was the concept.<br />
<br />
Ella Cleary has a rare medical condition known as synesthesia, which messes with her brain and senses, allowing her to read people's emotions based on the colour that appears around them whenever she looks their way. So when a stranger approaches her exuding no colour at all, and calling her by the name "Nora" which she hasn't used since she was three years old, she has every right to be confused. Cautious.<br />
<br />
Downright suspicious.<br />
<br />
Even more unnerving is that he wants to ask her about a murder she's certain she never witnessed. She's not even sure she believes it happened, because first of all, her parents died in a fire--there was no murder involved, just a freak accident. And second of all, she wasn't ever there to see it.<br />
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C J Lyons evokes an exciting, emotional mystery as these two characters encounter and re-encounter each other while they try to unravel the mysteries around Ella's parents and their sudden deaths. It's a story that made me wonder again and again, "how could they possibly figure out this mess?" and there's nothing more satisfying than finding the answer to that question.<br />
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An intriguing, easy read for Teen or YA Fiction reader who enjoys a tragic past, a dark mystery, and a high-stakes race to uncover the truth.<br />
<br />
--Elise T.--<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>The Color of Lies</i> by C J Lyons, visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=9780310765356&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-2486944856011964002019-01-12T14:41:00.002-08:002019-01-12T16:01:57.252-08:00Racing to the Finish<a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=EC6yEHJbaSGJNUXjac5P-Q" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="265" height="320" src="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=EC6yEHJbaSGJNUXjac5P-Q" width="212" /></a> This isn't the sort of book I would expect myself to read. Not because women can't enjoy NASCAR, but because I thought I'd had enough of NASCAR to last a lifetime. My brother, who is 5 years younger than me, spent a few years, a decade and more ago, obsessed with the sport. He could name every driver's stats, and not just NASCAR, but Formula 1 and IndyCar as well. There was always a race on TV, and so the names and locations found their way into my world as well. Tony Stewart and Jimmie Johnson were household names. While I would occasionally watch with him, and had my favourite (Jeff Gordon), NASCAR was not my favourite thing in the world. It may have had something to do with the fact that the Daytona 500 often fell on my birthday, and there was no way my brother was missing the Daytona 500.<br />
<br />
As I began to read Racing to the Finish, it felt like I was going back in time and back to my childhood, as names and places I'd forgotten were in the forefront of the story. But you don't have to be a fan of NASCAR to enjoy this book. This is Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s story of injury and recovery, and the resilience it takes to be a racecar driver. Rather than being an account of his entire life - although he does reminisce about his father and grandfather, and discusses the beginnings and evolution of his racing career - Racing to the Finish is the story of Earnhardt's concussions, recovery, and subsequent retirement. His injuries and recovery happened at the same time the NFL was finally beginning to talk about the affects of concussions, and Earnhardt's journey shaped the way concussions and other injuries are viewed in the racing world.<br />
<br />
Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s story of resilience and healing - and the perseverance required for both - is inspiring, no matter what your own life looks like. I found it a fascinating book, and I was also delighted to find that Dale Earnhardt Jr. has a gift for writing as well as racing; he has proven himself an insightful and skilled author, with a style both entertaining and honest.<br />
<br />
Earnhardt wrote this book not only to tell the story of why he was off the track for so long, but to help others who have concussions and other head injuries to understand what is happening in the brain, and know that help is available and recovery possible. As NASCAR's unofficial spokesperson for concussions, and thanks to his fame and fan base, he is in the perfect position to help raise awareness for the prevention and treatment of concussions. For me, this book also gave me a new appreciation of the racing world that I had long forgotten. The often wistful combination of nostalgia and glory which Earnhardt has woven into Racing to the Finish has made me fall in love with NASCAR again.<br />
<br />
While this looks like a man's book - it's a sports and medical autobiography written by a racecar driver, after all - I firmly believe books should not be marketed as "men's books" and "women's books." I am a woman in my mid-twenties and I loved it. I believe it would interest anyone with a taste for sports, medicine and psychology, or biographies. Or, like me, give it - or another book outside your comfort zone - a chance. You may be pleasantly surprised.<br />
<br />
--Aliah--<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Racing to the Finish</i> by Dale Earnhardt Jr., visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=Racing+to+the+Finish&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>.HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-32880405331622264442019-01-07T12:07:00.000-08:002019-01-07T12:07:34.809-08:00Hidden Among the Stars<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWOIIIhmKYji3QpTDFerScaBzTbMAw5d3mIId4lC1ZysqurDVtbXN4SuujAG5K5pA-voyA4L9POjksXS4JMTGqkBfIDLADOePa9d-vD0HuzMSjaiFRFB8zyp0-PpsQjMn_pPQFjMyxZO9L/s1600/hidden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="267" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWOIIIhmKYji3QpTDFerScaBzTbMAw5d3mIId4lC1ZysqurDVtbXN4SuujAG5K5pA-voyA4L9POjksXS4JMTGqkBfIDLADOePa9d-vD0HuzMSjaiFRFB8zyp0-PpsQjMn_pPQFjMyxZO9L/s400/hidden.jpg" width="266" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">This book is a wonderful story that sees Callie, a bookstore owner in small
town America,
being given an old copy of Felix Saltern's classic children's book
"Bambi". Inside she finds the original owner's name, Annika, and also
a list amongst the pages, written in German. The list seems to be of valuables
such as ruby bracelets, candelabras and the like, but why are they in an old
children's book? And who exactly was Annika?<br /> </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">We go back in time to Austria
in 1938, where Annika is a caretaker, along with her father, of an estate in
the lake region of Austria.
The castle is owned by a wealthy Viennese family as their summer house. Annika
is in love with the owner's son, Max, but does he share her love? Or is there
another that has captured his heart?<br /> </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">We slide between the two stories as Callie, aided by university lecturer Josh,
try to find out what happened to Annika, and what the list is for. She also
wants to find any remaining members of Annika's family to return the book to
them. Meanwhile, back in 1938 Austria
is being taken over by Nazi Germany, and it is a dangerous time for many in Vienna.<br /> </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Melanie Dobson weaves a marvellous tale of two women, separated by an ocean and
80 years, whose lives are brought together by a simple children's book. It is
an enduring story, the terror of the Nazi regime and the lives of the Jewish
people devastated during the holocaust. And what becomes of Annika? </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Don’t miss Dobson’s other utterly amazing read, <i>Catching the Wind</i>. Fans of historical fiction will not be able to put either
of these books down.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">--Candace-- </span></span></div>
<br />
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For more information on <i>Hidden Among the Stars </i>by Melanie Dobson, visit us in store or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=hidden+among+the+stars&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here. </a></div>
HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-20473783646325514312018-12-12T09:43:00.001-08:002018-12-12T09:43:57.318-08:00The Greatest Gift<div>
<a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=Hbmw4p6nGGFFLVFQCNN_3Q" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="274" height="320" src="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=Hbmw4p6nGGFFLVFQCNN_3Q" width="219" /></a><i> He shattered the space between heaven and earth and came naked and
breakable for you in a creche. Then He lay naked and broken by you on a
Cross. If He gave you His Son to save you, will He not give anything?</i> </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Many of you will recognize Ann Voskamp's name in connection to her books <i>The Broken Way</i> and one of my all time favourite reads, <i>One Thousand Gifts</i>. This book, <i>The Greatest Gift</i>,
is her invitation to a deep and meaningful Advent season. Ann's poetic
and lyrical prose lends itself beautifully to this hope-filled time of
year. Her daily readings follow the Jesse Tree tradition of exploring
Jesus' genealogy, after the prophecy of Isaiah 11, and she<span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2"> includes a link to download and print Jesse Tree ornaments for the tree</span></span> to follow the readings.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-chapter-2"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-1">There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse,</span></span><br /><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-1">and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.</span></span><br /><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2" id="m_8457846441868708257en-ESV-17887"><sup class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-versenum"> </sup>And the Spirit of the <span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> shall rest upon him,</span><br /><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2">the Spirit of wisdom and understanding,</span></span><br /><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2">the Spirit of counsel and might,</span></span><br /><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2">the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the <span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>.</span></span></i></div>
<div>
<span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2"> With
each Old Testament character, from Joseph to Ruth to Rahab to Abraham,
Ann reaches into her reader's hearts to expose our hopes, fears, and
burdens during the pre-Christmas season that is supposed to be filled
with joy, but is often shadowed by the hardships we all face. Her daily
readings not only allow these painful feelings but encourage us to dig
deep into our souls and discover what God truly has in store for us
during Advent. The human story, outlined in Jesus' family tree, is one
of heartbreak, sin, and beautiful dependence on God through weakness.
Ann allows us to experience the same, guilt free, to grow closer to God
this Christmas. As she says in her book, <i>"The places where we're torn to pieces can be thin places where we touch the peace of God."</i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2"> I
love this book and I love Ann Voskamp. Her style of write, brimming
with poetry in every line, as well as her fearless plumbing of the
depths of the soul, draw me in every time. This book gives me the
wonderful happy thrills you only get when reading a rare and special
book. Whatever kind of Christmas season you're approaching - one of
loss, pain, joy or celebration - this book will draw you deep into the
Gospel story and the heart of God. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2"><br /></span></span></div>
<span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2"><i> Stars
will come in the night sky, shimmer somewhere. Advent will keep coming,
this love story that never stops coming. Love like this could make us
wonder. Somewhere, carols play.</i></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2">--Aliah--<i> </i></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-indent-1"><span class="m_8457846441868708257gmail-text m_8457846441868708257gmail-Isa-11-2"> For more information on <i>The Greatest Gift</i> by Ann Voskamp, visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=9781414387086+&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>.</span></span><br />
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<i> </i>HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-32990384590992721022018-11-22T12:24:00.001-08:002018-11-22T12:24:54.340-08:00Silencing Insecurity This is a beautiful, deeply personal book, because it’s about you. I will warn you, as Donna Gibbs does, that this book will poke and prod at some of the most sensitive parts of your heart. That’s the point: silencing insecurity by exploring insecurity.<br />
<br />
The book is divided into 3 sections: identity (which includes comparison, success, failure, background and more), unnecessary problems (namely mental, emotional, and relational), and lastly "The Necessary Secret" (how to overcome insecurity and move towards wholeness and dependence on God). Each chapter contains questions for journaling titled "Freedom Q & A".<br />
<br />
<a href="https://houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=yZhBgHKitvKEwSuEkkrJlQ" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="259" height="320" src="https://houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=yZhBgHKitvKEwSuEkkrJlQ" width="207" /></a> Some example questions are:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>How has the enemy caused you to doubt God and to doubt yourself?</li>
<li>Have the dynamics of growing up in a single-parent home or a blended family impacted your view of yourself?</li>
<li>How have insecurities robbed you of spiritual development? Where would you like to be in relation to God?</li>
</ul>
As you can see, these questions and more are sure to open up some very old and deep wounds, but that is exactly what will lead to healing. Although it would still be helpful, a casual reading of this book just won’t do. No, you need to highlight, journal, and make a beautiful mess of this book to get the most out of it. As I journeyed through the first few chapters, I already found myself realising some things that were holding me back, that I hadn’t yet healed from, or that encouraged me deeply where I most needed it. <br />
<br />
Gibbs uses Scripture and God’s promises to show us how to overcome past hurts and the lies that become entrenched in our hearts from our pasts, from society, and from the enemy, to realise our true identity in Christ. Each chapter also contains a “Victory Verse” for memorization to aid you in taking hold of the truth of God’s word as it applies to your life. <br />
<br />
This is a wonderful book for anyone who struggles with self esteem, has difficulties with their past or present situation, or is feeling stuck in their life or spiritual walk. This book contains the Biblical tools for overcoming strongholds in your life. It would also be helpful to anyone wanting to better understand how their identity in Christ should affect their life on a practical level. <br />
<br />
Silencing Insecurity is already changing my life, and I plan to go back to it again and again.<br />
<br />
--Aliah--<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Silencing Insecurity</i> by Donna Gibbs, visit our website <a href="https://houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=silencing+insecurity&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-66668584071358226982018-11-17T09:54:00.000-08:002018-11-17T09:54:40.483-08:00In His Image<div>
<a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=Cv2qErzRRwLFM4mEFKfiAw" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="262" height="320" src="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=Cv2qErzRRwLFM4mEFKfiAw" width="209" /></a> I'll be honest, I first picked this one off the shelf because it's such
a beautiful book. In this case, you can judge a book by its cover! This
is one of my favourite books of this year, and I'll be coming back to
it again and again. <i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i> In His Image </i>is a follow up to Jen Wilkin's <i>None Like Him. </i>In
her previous book she outlined 10 different attributes of God that show
how different He is from us. In this book, she goes through 10
attributes of God - holiness, love, goodness,
justice, mercy, grace, faithfulness, patience, truth, and wisdom - and
illustrates from a Biblical perspective how we as Christians can reflect
God's character in these ways to the world, while getting to know Him
better. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, in this book, discovering God's will becomes asking the question
"Who should I be?" rather than the paralyzing "What should I do?" Wilkin
outlines this in the following excerpt : </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i> "Our
inclination is to discern God's will by asking, What should I do? But
God's will concerns itself primarily with who we are, and only
secondarily with what we do. By changing the question and asking, Who
should I be? we see that God's will is not concealed from us in His
Word, but is plainly revealed." </i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
While
revealing aspects of God's character, Wilkin reassures us that following
God's will is as simple and as impossible as being molded into the image
of Christ, rather than our actions and plans for our lives.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One
Goodreads reviewer said she follows Jen Wilkin because she "doesn't make
things fluffy and encourages women to use their minds." I agree
completely with this statement. I love Christian women's books, but as feelings-based as my personality is, they
often focus too much on emotion and inspiring words, and don't have much theological depth. This book
is very deep but so easy to understand and apply. It is theology-based
and encourages practical, sanctifying study of the Word. Each chapter is shorter than average and
contains verses to meditate on as well as questions for journaling and
deeper study. A book to read and reread, study, highlight, and take
notes on. If you're looking to get to know God's character better,
deepen your faith, or are looking for a gift that will inspire and teach
a new believer, this is the book for you.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
--Aliah--</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
For more information on <i>In His Image</i> by Jen Wilkin, visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=9781433549878+&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. </div>
HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-69830100119651806162018-11-17T09:51:00.000-08:002018-11-17T09:51:23.464-08:00Gay Girl, Good God<i>"I used to be a lesbian." </i><br />
<br />
I picked this book up not really knowing what to expect. My first thought was "Ooooh! What a pretty cover!" Then, "Oh wow, I need to know more." And then I began reading, which didn't take me long because it's not even 200 pages. But what is in here is so good and raw and honest and beautiful and chalk FULL of God's goodness and mercy and grace.<br />
<br />
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Jackie Hill Perry's gets to the nitty-gritty right away in her introduction saying, <i>"A gay girl once? Yes. Now? I am what God's goodness will do to a soul once grace gets to it. In saying that, I know I've already offended someone. I don't assume that every hand that holds this book will agree with every black letter on the pages. There are many who, while reading, won't understand gayness as something possible of being past tense. It is either who you are, or what you have never been. To this, I disagree. The only constant in this world is God." </i><br />
<br />
Jackie's Hill Perry's story is a unique one for sure. She writes that before she could even spell her name, she knew she liked girls instead of boys. Her father was absent, minus a day here and there, and he told her once that if he never saw her again that he wouldn't be that upset. At age five, she was sexually assaulted at a friends house by the older brother. Then by the time she was 18, she had embraced both masculinity and homosexuality with every fiber of her being. And it was during her second relationship with a woman that she started using drugs.<br />
<i> </i><br />
Then God broke in and changed everything.<br />
<br />
I seriously can't get over how powerful this book was. Not just her story, but it made me look at my own life and my own sin, and how I look at the friends and family I know and love that would identify themselves as gay and ask myself, "have I been truly loving them and speaking the gospel, or have I failed"?<br />
<br />
After finishing this book, I came out with two big take-aways. The <b>first </b>is that as Christians, who may or may not have people they love who are gay, we need to make sure we are speaking more about Christ to them than hell. As soon as I finished the book, I pulled out my phone and started following Jackie on Instagram. I scrolled through and found a video of her being interviewed about the book and she said that when she was living her life before, all she heard was hell and that's where she would end up if she didn't change. Nobody talked to her about Jesus and his mercy and grace and wisdom. What?! The <b>second</b> would be that we stop making marriage the ultimate goal to hit as Christians. It's wonderful and awesome ( I would know) but it's not the "highest glory" that I think we sometimes preach that it is. To a same-sex attracted Christian, they may (like Jackie) marry someone of the opposite sex, but they may not. They may be called to a life of singleness. And that is OKAY. In both, God is glorified.<br />
<br />
I encourage you to pick it up even if you're hesitant. This topic isn't always easy, but reading something that challenges you is important. It helps you grow. And reading someones story, I find, is a helpful gateway into challenging topics.<br />
<br />
--Elise F--<br />
<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Gay Girl, Good God </i>by Jackie Hill Perry, come in and see us, or visit our website <a href="https://houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=gay+girl+good+god&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-35591906982581697902018-11-10T18:38:00.001-08:002018-11-10T18:38:30.398-08:00The Crescent Stone<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #181818;">A girl with a deadly
lung disease . . .</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span></span><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #181818;">A boy with a tragic
past . . .</span></span></span></div>
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</span></span><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #181818;">A land where the sun
never sets but darkness still creeps in . . .</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">That premise hooked me immediately. I was sucked into the reading vortex.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">We open with Madeline
Oliver; she is desperate to be a normal teenager who is able to breathe on her own. Her
life changes when a random, oddly dressed stranger, named Hanali makes her an
offer she can’t refuse: a year of breathing in exchange for service to his
people, the Elenil who are fighting against the evil Scim.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Are you intrigued
yet? </span></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Well you should be, because this was an amazing read!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">It features honest
logic, hilarious one-liners, twists and turns, and ridiculous rules of living,
such as magical self-cleaning toilets (which leads to one asking where does it
disappear to?). </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">For fans of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings, this trilogy is sure to
interest those who cannot say no to an adventure. Whilst in this magical
kingdom, Madeline and her friend Jason Wu will discover an even greater evil
lurking within the city walls. Journey along with them as they discover the
true meaning of friendship and sacrifice. We are left wondering if love truly
can save the lost and broken?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">-Candace </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">For more information on <i>The Crescent Stone </i>by Matt Mikalatos, visit us in store or check out our website <a href="https://houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=the+crescent+stone&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. </span></span></span></div>
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HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-90156481094384367982018-10-13T14:22:00.000-07:002018-10-13T14:22:08.758-07:00Becoming Mrs. Lewis<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqyxLjDch89tFWLFfLmDv2lwUvVG4i1yJsLFnd4BNVUvzTUwqYPKUpy2udrwJl8ldP3zOvi1MMtLi192m-_hi63tsUdA-y0pa1hoXitAr8NlfmW_R4BXYQDuSceuMDOdmNV_5nAGpXnkg/s1600/lewis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="265" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqyxLjDch89tFWLFfLmDv2lwUvVG4i1yJsLFnd4BNVUvzTUwqYPKUpy2udrwJl8ldP3zOvi1MMtLi192m-_hi63tsUdA-y0pa1hoXitAr8NlfmW_R4BXYQDuSceuMDOdmNV_5nAGpXnkg/s400/lewis.jpg" width="265" /></a>I am in love with the United Kingdom. After I graduated from college (which was a miracle considering I was a lot more social than studious...much like my father), my dad took me on a 10 day trip to London. And WOW! What a haven for the history/literary nerds! My dad and I had the best time. From Westminster to the Tower of London to Hyde Park, we explored as much as we could and ate fish and chips to our hearts' content in many of the pubs located in London and everywhere. The British love their pubs. One of the days (I think my dad and I both say it was our favorite day), we traveled to Oxford. The only thing either of us had planned for that day was to explore and find the pub that C. S. Lewis and Tolkien and the other Inklings visited regularly to talk about their writings. When we found The Eagle and Child, both of us could not contain our excitement. We sat down at a random table and ordered. And while we were waiting for our food, as we looked around, we noticed all the plaques surrounding the table we were sitting in, and to our complete and utter surprise, we were sitting in THEIR BOOTH. It was such a surreal experience for both of us and I'm so happy that I got to share that with my dad.<br />
<br />
So, really, it's no surprise that I would want to pick this book up and read it. This book was all the more magical because I had been to those places and could imagine Joy and Lewis (or "Jack", as his friends would call him), strolling along in Oxford.<br />
<br />
Before Joy met Lewis, she became a Christian (just like Lewis); not because she was searching for Him, but because God surprised her in her great need. After this, Joy wrote to Lewis, hoping for answers to her many questions about Christianity. And Lewis wrote back. Thus began her incredible journey of deep friendship with him that eventually turned into love. <br />
<br />
This is Patti Callahan's debut Christian novel. After reading this
book, I seriously hope she keeps writing. She wrote so incredibly well
that I could picture everything vividly in my mind. I've been a fan of
C. S. Lewis my entire life, and the way she wrote his dialogue and
described him--I totally get why Joy was so drawn to him. This book was
also a story about Joy's entire life, leading up to her marriage to
Lewis. She's mostly famous for the end of her life, so to read about
what happened before that was so interesting.<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Becoming Mrs. Lewis </i>by Patti Callahan, come and visit us in store or check out our website <a href="https://houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=becoming+mrs+lewis&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. <br />
<br />HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-18417374663795864382018-10-09T17:18:00.001-07:002019-03-02T17:43:24.058-08:00Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I've Loved<a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=klyGZUU-JwI0vbavnZdZaQ" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="265" height="320" src="https://www.houseofjames.com/i/m.php?b=klyGZUU-JwI0vbavnZdZaQ" width="212" /></a> Rarely have I seen something so real, raw, and honest as this. When there is no rhyme or reason--God doesn't heal you, and those perfectly formulated formulas of life, love, and the divine don't add up, where does that leave you?<br />
<br />
When Kate Bowler was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer, it tore at the seams of the prosperity-gospel theology she had surrounded herself with. <i>Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I've Loved</i> tells her story, "offering up irreverent, hard-won observations on dying and the ways it has taught her to live", and it's what I affectionately call a "bleeding heart". Every chapter, every page, every word is chock-full of so much full, sorrowful, beautiful emotion that I felt like crying every time I sat down with it, just as a way to release the feelings building and twisting inside of me as I read.<br />
<br />
There is no end to Kate Bowler's wisdom, truth, and sheer, raw honesty that I didn't even know I was longing for. Just last week, I came across a cute, catchy Christian saying that
echoed the promises we so often tell each other: "With God, you're
limitless. Anything is possible. Nothing can stop you from achieving
your dreams, your goals...". And then in reading Kate Bowler's story, I read this:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"What would it mean for Christians to give up that little piece of the American Dream that says, "You are limitless"? Everything is not possible. The mighty Kingdom of God is not yet here. What if <i>rich</i> did not have to mean <i>wealthy</i>, and <i>whole</i> did not have to mean <i>healed</i>? What if being people of "the gospel" meant that we are simply people with good news? God is here. We are loved. It is enough.<span style="font-size: x-small;">"</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />(p. 21. Bowler, Kate. <i>Everything Happens for a Reason</i>. Penguin Random House, 2018.)</span></blockquote>
With God, you're limitless, except when something <i>does </i>stop you. Except when you reach your very real, very tangible limits, and things don't go your way anymore.<br />
<br />
Like Kate, since pondering this disillusionment with the concept of limitlessness, I've become more comfortable with the times when life is no longer under my control (as if it ever really is). Human mortality stares us in the face every day, but in the shoes of someone like Kate, it no longer seems to just stare. It screams. It shrieks. It rages. It becomes a thing so impossible to ignore that the only thing left is to ask the questions: the hard questions, the real questions, the painful questions, the terrifying questions. I've never heard ask them better than Kate does. Her cynicism reads like a breath of fresh air after a long day cooped up in a stuffy house; the hope and grace woven through her words feels like a full, warm embrace.<br />
<br />
This book is a balm for the suffering, wondering why they suffer. And it's so incredibly helpful for those seeking, searching, trying to understand the threat of cancer in their family members and friends. There are two helpful appendices at the end: "Absolutely Never Say This to People Experiencing Terrible Times (A Short List)" and "Give This A Go, See How It Works (A Short List)". They're meant to guide and help those of us who don't know what to do or say, and are in danger of harming our already hurting loved one with our good intentions.<br />
<br />
--Elise T.-- <br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Everything Happens for a Reason</i> by Kate Bowler, visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=9780399592065&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>.HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-5175404454078393532018-09-13T10:29:00.000-07:002018-09-13T10:29:26.203-07:00Touch of Gold<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ68Jhi8n3xXwFWgVa4ouzhyphenhyphenHNh_ukds5C-rP52-5wDAa_je5GP4C-jVrdQ-gvEvuDrjgf1PAqfFr5VVLQDQJmWdKrXPSK71ga_yaCKnsVMWhHWainZ5PUht9nB7rvs8nsK-lyG49hmhZK/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="262" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ68Jhi8n3xXwFWgVa4ouzhyphenhyphenHNh_ukds5C-rP52-5wDAa_je5GP4C-jVrdQ-gvEvuDrjgf1PAqfFr5VVLQDQJmWdKrXPSK71ga_yaCKnsVMWhHWainZ5PUht9nB7rvs8nsK-lyG49hmhZK/s400/.jpg" width="260" /></a><i>"Once upon a time..."</i><br />
<br />
Any story that starts this way with those four little words, it is guaranteed that I'll love it or at least like it a lot. I grew up watching Disney movies and reading out of all of our fairy-tale books over and over again till the pages started falling out. I don't know what it is about them, but I love them. I love the adventure, the princesses and princes and frogs, and pirates and treasures and all of it. So when I picked up this book and it started with those four little words I love so much, I knew I had to keep reading to see if it was actually any good.......it was!<br />
<br />
If you know anything about King Midas then you're good to go in reading this story. If you don't, then basically its a myth about a king who wishes that he could turn anything he wants to gold. But Dionysus, the god who gave him this "gift", or curse, tricked him: literally everything he touches turns to gold. That's the gist.<br />
<br />
Our story begins right before that curse is lifted, when King Midas accidentally turns his daughter, Kora, into gold. After searching out Dionysus to save his daughter from her dreadful fate, the god tells Midas to bring everything he's touched, including his daughter, and go to the mouth of the nearby river before the sun sets that day and submerge everything. And his daughter would be saved. So Midas does this, but in his hurry he forgets everything except his daughter. When the sun sets, Kora is alive but her skin is still a shimmering gold.<br />
<br />
And that is only the prologue!<br />
<br />
Flash forward ten years and Kora feels like she's never going to find a man to marry her who won't shudder when he looks at her and that she's never going to escape the walls of the palace where her Uncle Pheus and her father keep her locked up. But when a suitor shows up and doesn't recoil when he looks at her, Kora finally begins to have hope that her life won't always be in hiding.<br />
<br />
When the palace is robbed of the cursed gold that Midas touched, and needs for survival, Kora sets out with her suitor, to bring back the gold to save her father and the kingdom. As they slowly begin to get to know each other, Kora finds out that people aren't always as they seem.<br />
<br />
This book was exactly what I needed after reading several books about WWII and the Holocaust. It was an easy read and swept me away into a fanciful land of pirates and curses and a damsel who starts out in distress but finds her own strength and it's all great. This is Annie Sullivan's debut novel and I give it two enthusiastic thumbs up!<br />
<br />
--Elise F.--<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>A Touch of Gold </i>by Annie Sullivan,come in and see us or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=a+touch+of+gold&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. HOJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573792216567272209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-684021320849645090.post-22956502320270085392018-09-04T16:30:00.000-07:002018-09-04T16:30:02.890-07:00Salt to the Sea <div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<i>Salt to the Sea </i>by Ruta Sepetys was truly a heart-breaker. I keep telling myself that I need to take a break from the historical fiction and read a simple light fiction or fantasy book; read something that can't possibly be real, because my heart can't handle what the last few books I've read have made me feel. But I'm addicted. So, oh well<i>. </i><br />
<br />
<i>Salt to the Sea </i>takes place in winter 1945 and follows four characters whose lives are crossed in the desperate attempt to flee to the coast from Stalin and his soldiers: Joana from Lithuania, Florian from Prussia, Emilia from Poland, and Alfred from Germany. All four fight for passage aboard the <i>Wilhelm Gustloff</i>, a ship that will transport them to safety and freedom...maybe.<br />
<br />
And that's all I'm telling you because I don't want to give anything away.<br />
<br />
Most WWII books I've read have been about people running or hiding or fighting the Germans and from Hitler. This is the first book I've read that has been about people running from Stalin to Germany. Getting more info from the Eastern European countries was a welcome change. The war happened to them too but on both sides, each having horrible dictators. This was also the first time learning of the ship <i>Wilhelm Gustloff</i>, which was a tragedy that was six times deadlier than the Titanic, and I couldn't believe this was the first I've heard about it. </div>
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Ruta Sepetys writes amazingly well. The book is broken up into the perspectives of each of the main characters, each chapter being a new perspective on what's happening and why that character is running. And it's so SO good. I did not want this book to end, but at the same time, it took
everything in me to NOT skip ahead to make sure that nothing bad
happened to the characters I immediately fell in love with. It can't be easy writing a book with four different perspectives to keep track of, and she blew it out of the water. </div>
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When you pick this book up, make sure you have tissues handy because it's a doozy.<br />
<br />
--Elise F--<br />
<br />
For more information on <i>Salt to the Sea </i>by Ruta Sepetys, come in and see us or visit our website <a href="https://www.houseofjames.com/?searchtype=keyword&qs=salt+to+the+sea&qs_file=&q=h.tviewer&using_sb=status&qsb=keyword">here</a>. </div>
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