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Book Review 030910
THE MASCULINE MANDATE: God's Calling to Men
By Richard D. Phillips
Reformation Trust Publishing, 978-1-56769-120-7, 206 pages

   The Masculine Mandate by Richard D. Phillips, is a book that addresses a growing void within the church: the lack of male leadership. Proposing the foundation that it is man's chief concern to bring glory to God through the means of keeping and guarding, the author effectively and systematically addresses the main elements of a man's life.
   Richard's boldness in addressing the issues unflinchingly is only outshone by his ability to communicate. After reading the book one cannot only see the addressed problem, but also understand why it is a problem and how to fix it. The book provides an array of scriptural references and well thought out anecdotes, all related in a sincere, respectable, masculine tone as should be expected from a book on such a topic.
   The book is split into two parts: "understanding the mandate" and "living the mandate." The first section establishes biblically who man is by taking an in-depth look at Genesis 2 and then looking at man's duty to work, bear God's image, and maintain lordship over creation. The second section deals with application in work, marriage and dating, child rearing, brotherly friendships, and church business.
   Genesis 2:27 says, "So God created man in his own image" and this book sublimely helps show what that is. The book, in my most honest assessment, is life changing if one is open. I read the entire thing in a day, turning my morning devotion into a mini self-recreation exercise-especially concerning the elements pertaining to marriage and dating.
    I recommend this book to any man ages 16 and older.

Book Review 030410
THE GOSPEL-DRIVEN LIFE: Being Good News People in a Bad News World
by Michael Horton
Baker, 978-0-8010-1319-5, HB, 271 pages, $19.99

   The back cover asks, "When did the Good News become just good advice?" In this book, Horton investigates many beliefs we hold about Christianity and God, and he gives hope and advice on how to live as we should.
   This book is difficult, having a lot of heavy content and requiring deep thinking. He gives the analogy of a newspaper where the gospel should be the front page news instead of information about our lives. He explains what salvation is and isn't, always backing up whatever he says with Scripture and writings of other theologians.
   While reading and understanding the content may seem daunting, the lessons learned are invaluable and can set us on the right track to understanding the grace of God's salvation and how we can worship Him and not ourselves.

Book Review 030210
LOST MISSION
by Athol Dickson
Simon & Schuster, 978-1-4165-8347-9, PB, 350 pages, $14.99

   More than two hundred years ago, one priest supernaturally escapes the fiery collapse of his Spanish mission. His legacy advances through the centuries until it sends a shopkeeper, Lupe, on a quest to save the lost Americans in present day. Why did God really send the priest to America those many years ago? Why is He sending a humble missionary now?
   Dickson's story juggles many characters, which he uses to string the reader along until finally connecting the dots. As if telling an epic tale, he weaves plot, character, religion, and history into a conversational, easy-to-read tome. The book's overall perspective is rather cynical and controversial. He deals heavily with issues such as illegal immigrants and hypocrisy within the mainstream church, and basically says Catholics and Protestants are the same as long as they truly believe in Christ. Not for the faint of heart, this novel is an entertaining but thought-provoking tale.

Book Review 022510
HERO'S TRIBUTE
by Graham Garrison
Kregel, 978-0-8254-2685-8, PB, 239 pages

   The town of Talking Creek reveres Michael Gavin as a local hero. He was the greatest football player in the state, then a war hero, and ultimately a respected community citizen. But as his last wish, Michael requests that journalist Wes Watkins-a man who never knew him-give his eulogy and let Talking Creek know of the man Michael Gavin truly was, warts and all. Wes soon finds that there was more to Michael than meets the eye. Can the townspeople handle the truth?
   This is a very enjoyable book, but it challenges readers to examine their walking testimonies and their inner values, as opposed to what the outside world perceives. Garrison, a first time novelist, catches readers' attention early on, and never lets it go. His characters seem like real people, and the story remains consistently entertaining and thought provoking throughout. The book examines the human condition, and succeeds highly in inspiring readers to follow a life of genuine discipline and faith.
   Highly recommended.

Book Review 022310
THE SWISS COURIER
by Tricia Goyer & Mike Yorkey
Revell, 978-0-8007-3336-0, PB, 324 pages, $13.99

   In a time of uncertainty and instability, whom can you trust? This is exactly the predicament the characters of this novel face. Following the attempt on Hitler's life, the Gestapo is desperate to expose traitors and grasp any remaining hope of victory. What is this hope? It's the Wunderwaffe, a wonder weapon supposedly capable of turning the direction of the war. However, the Gestapo has discovered a deadly secret: a Jew is working on this weapon. He has now become the most wanted man in Germany, and it is up to the Resistance to save him and the cause.
   Although propelled by more suspense with every turn of the page, this book does not provide adequate character development. Also, given the realities of war, the book is somewhat unrealistic. The book follows scriptural themes and is, therefore, appropriate for a church or school library with teenage to adult readers.

Book Review 021810
KINGDOM WITHOUT BORDERS: The Untold Story of Global Christianity
By Miriam Adeney
InterVarsity, 978-0-8308-3849-3, 304 pages, PB

   The content of this book immediately appeals to any globally minded Christian, in that it meticulously documents evangelism on continents, on islands, and in distant
   Unfortunately, the lackluster craft with which the book is constructed leaves something to be desired. Instilled with illustrations that overwhelm main points, as well as forced metaphors that obstruct the general cadence, the book has a somewhat droning lack of fluidity that dilutes the impact of the message.
   The book's more informational parts have a sort of "chunky" feel to them, both in the sense of harsh transitions and thickly packed content. Despite this, however, the stories and testimonies hold a magnetic intrigue. Read this and expect to be informed of little known facts, to be educated regarding world happenings, and to be intrigued by Christian stories, even if sometimes annoyed by stilted writing and awkward formatting.

Book Review 021610
CHOOSING GRATITUDE: Your Journey to Joy
By: Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Moody, 978-0-8024-3252-0, HB, 235 pages, $17.99

   Thanksgiving puts us in God's living room is one theme of this book. The author emphasizes the point that giving gratitude to the Lord is an essential part of being a believer. DeMoss intricately explains the reasons why a Christian should continually be thankful to God, regarding health, family life, education, careers, and friends, and she offers many examples to illustrate her points.
   Choosing Gratitude is a strongly written book that allows the reader to evaluate his or her life and level of thankfulness toward the Lord. The author does a tremendous job of pulling in personal testimonies and stories from a wide variety of people, some well known, some not. This book can be for either men or women; however, it probably will be more accepted by women. Overall, this is a book that faces reality head on, while at the same time offers hope to the reader.

Book Review 021110
THE LEADERSHIP ELLIPSE: Shaping How We Lead by Who We Are
By Robert A. Fryling
InterVarsity, 978-0-8308-3538-6, PB, 220 pages, $17.00

   Do you feel worn out, like you're running on a spiritual treadmill, racing like mad but going nowhere? Robert A. Fryling, experienced author and spiritual leader, felt the same way until he learned the importance of shaping his inner being in order to lead effectively. Fryling addresses, in a refreshing and practical way, every man's struggle to balance the ever-increasing demands of both the inner and outer worlds.
   Fryling bases his teachings on Scripture and gives advice he has found to help him on his journey, such as following Lent and practicing the Sunday Sabbath. With many anecdotes throughout, Fryling shares with the reader his own successes and failures as a busy leader in the Christian community. This book is recommended for Christian leaders of all ages because it focuses on the necessity of biblical Christ-likeness in effective Christian leadership.

Book Review 020910
ENEMIES AMONG US
by Bob Hamer
Fidelis, 978-0-8054-4978-5, PB, 330 pages, $14.99

   Matt Hogan has been a successful FBI undercover agent for many years, but now he's stuck working in a Christian clinic/ministry, searching for possible ties to terrorist organizations. But is something actually going on, or is he just barking up the wrong tree?
   The author's years of experience in the FBI allow him to provide many details about how the job works, but these tidbits rarely advance the plot and end up slowing the pace of the novel. The main character's spiritual disciplines make him a good role model, and the terrorism angle makes the plot contemporary. However, in the end, despite a somewhat interesting story idea, the writing itself makes the narrative momentum slow and the story hard to maintain interest in.

Book Review 020410
WALKING ON BROKEN GLASS
By Christa Allan
Abington, 978-1-426-70227-3, PB, 340 pages, $13.99

   Leah Thorton's makes a journey from alcoholism to sobriety. Set in Texas, this story deals with themes of loneliness, loss, abuse, and addiction. Written in a conversational style that makes Leah's narrative seem like the confession of a friend, it is slow at times, but the plot's honest examination of life and pain make it unique and intimate. Though she's pampered, Leah's life is less than idyllic. Burdened by her husband Carl's sexual demands and critical spirit, Leah numbs her emotions with alcohol. A slightly heavier woman, Leah escapes the archetype of the beautiful and feisty fictional female and, instead, seems truly human. Initially, Leah's spiritual standing is a bit uncertain, but her movement toward God eventually grows clearer.
   Alongside Leah, the author sets a host of quirky co-characters, each of whom is vividly depicted. The inclusion of such creative and diverse characters adds vitality to the novel. Allan also specializes in clever word pictures and witty turns-of-phrase, making this book convey its message while staying readable.

Book Review 020210
A BETTER FREEDOM: Finding Life as Slaves of Christ
by Michael Card
IVP Books, 978-0-8308-3714-4, PB, 166 pages, $15.00

   Freedom can only be found in slavery, Christian singer-songwriter Michael Card says in this book. He explains that everyone is a slave to something, but Christ's chains are the only ones that liberate. Card explores the hopelessness and humiliation of being a slave, as well as the purpose and identity found in having a master. He then explains that Christianity has always been a slave's religion, and Christ frequently talked about and acted as both slave and master. What would our lives look like, Card asks, if we lived as slaves of Christ?
   Personal illustrations make this book understandable, and thorough research gives it a solid foundation. Card brings to life slavery in Rome and America, and from that he draws theologically sound conclusions.
   This book challenges mature Christians in their walk with God, while teaching truths young Christians can understand. It will be an asset to any church library.

Book Review 012810
NEVER BLAME THE UMPIRE
By Gene Fehler
Zondervan, 978-0-310-71941-0, PB, 192 pages, $12.99

   Eleven-year-old Kate loves three things: sports, poetry, and her family. But what do the first two matter when tragedy strikes? The novel reveals how God loves and protects us even during our darkest hours. Being written by an experienced storyteller and poet, this book is appropriate for its juvenile readers, in spite of the heavy themes. Illness and death are explored through the eyes of Kate, as she gives a first-person account of her feelings regarding her mother's cancer. The lesson she learns, though somewhat rushed and convoluted, shines through strong by the end.
   This simple, quick story gets at the heart of the never-ending dilemma, how a good God can allow bad things to happen. The result is a book that young readers, especially baseball players or writers, are sure to enjoy.

Book Review 012610
THIRSTY
by Tracey Bateman
WaterBrook Press, 978-0-307-45715-8, PB, 376 Pages, $17.99

   Thirsty, by Tracey Bateman, is a refreshing twist on the recently popular vampire craze. Rather than focus on dramatic teenage romance or violent warfare, as seems to be the trend within the genre, Thirsty is centered on a story of redemption.
The protagonist, Nina, is a recovering alcoholic whose family has all but disowned her. She's been in and out of rehab, and she moves to her hometown to live with her sister (the local sheriff) and start a new life. She also aims to spend time with her teenage daughter, who despises her. As Nina struggles to confront aspects of her own past, an evil force settles over the town, manifested by a series of grotesque murders. In order for her and her loved ones to survive, Nina must finally come to terms with her addiction, reconcile with the ones she has hurt, and uncover an age old mystery that could threaten the town itself.
Thirsty is definitely an young adult/adult novel. It deals with some pretty heavy subject matter, including nightmarish addiction, grisly violence, and rape. None of these things are glorified in the least, however; and good and evil are clearly defined. The story is fast-paced, the characters well rounded, and the finale unpredictable. An entertaining story with strong Christian themes, it will leave both new Bateman readers and existing thirsty for more.

Book Review 012110
EMBRACING YOUR FREEDOM: A Personal Experience of God's Heart for Justice
by Susie Larson
Moody, 978-0-8024-5280-1, PB, 288 pages, $13.99

   Larson demonstrates the necessity of freedom in the life of a Christian. She uses personal illustrations to emphasize awareness of our own spiritual freedom and a yearning for the freedom of those still bound by physical and spiritual slavery today.
   Larson offers insightful biblical references to freedom in combination with daily prayers and study questions that guide the female reader through an intense personal examination and urge her to seize freedom for her soul. Susie Larson has authored several books and many articles and consistently supports the International Justice Mission (IJM), an organization she champions throughout the book. This powerful and practical guide would be an excellent study book for a church women's group intending to reach out to communities or countries in need, and also to women who have been victims of spiritual or physical slavery.

Book Review 011910
KATY'S NEW WORLD
The Katy Lambright Series #1
By Kim Vogel Sawyer
Zondervan, 978-0-310-71924-3, PB, 201 pages, $9.99

   Torn between her Mennonite faith and a thirst for knowledge that can only be satisfied outside of the Old Order, sophomore Katie Lambright faces rejection when her efforts toward higher education are haunted by her deceased mother's decision to leave the community. As internal and external conflicts intensify, Katy finds hope in the example of Christ as she discovers who she is and what values she must stand for, even if she must stand alone.
   Although Katy's life as a Mennonite may be difficult for girls of other religious sects to understand, the struggles she faces are universal. Katy's character is age-appropriate and three-dimensional. Although the last chapter provides a sense of closure, unresolved conflicts are sure to keep readers coming back for more. A great novel for middle and high school girls, Katy's New World is an inspiring story that addresses the issue of conformity in teen culture.

011410 Book Review
COWBOY CHRISTMAS
by Mary Connealy
Barbour, 978-1-60260-145-1, 304 pgs.

   Cowboy Christmas by Mary Connealy asks readers, which is more important: telling the truth or protecting loved ones? And, can a beautiful woman really be trusted? These themes of truth and trust dominate Connealy's story of Elijah Walker and Annette Talbot. Running away from a couple with evil designs, Annette returns home to her father's ranch only to find it deserted. She meets Elijah, a man whose past makes him cynical toward all women, and the result is a chaotic ride of strong emotions, dastardly plots, and lessons of learning to trust again.
   With prods from his strong-willed mother, Elijah determines to help Annette survive on the Western frontier. She is running from more than he knows, however, and the details she leaves out only heighten his distrust. At the same time, Annette fears that telling the truth will bring more harm to those she cares about. Ultimately, they both must choose between trust and distrust, truth and falsehood.
   Through her humorous transitions and gentle pokes at gender differences, Mary Connealy keeps readers turning pages in an otherwise predictable plot. Some of the frustrations with each other that Annette and Elijah face are entertaining, but others may cause readers to pause and reflect on their own lives. Elijah's struggle to trust Annette stands out, as does Annette's battle to understand the Matthew 16:24 concept of bearing crosses for the Lord.
   This is a fairly typical "cowboy romance," although a few plot twists will keep readers interested. Connealy's writing style is amusing, and she offers a satisfying story. Lovers of historical romances will especially enjoy this book.

011210 Book Review
ALWAYS WATCHING
Rayne Tour Series #1
by Brandilyn Collins and Amberly Collins
Zondervan, 978-0-310-71539-9, PB, 215 pages, $9.99

   Who killed Tom Hutchens? And why? Shaley, the daughter of a pop star, goes on a mission to avenge her friend's death and find out if her unknown father played a part in the murder. Bloodshed, secrecy, and tension mark the pages of the book. While searching for the murderer, she also struggles with the idea that there is a God who comforts in times like these.
   The thrilling mystery keeps the reader turning the pages. Although some of the youthful dialogue seems unnatural at time, the plot flows quickly and holds the reader's interest. Development of the characters provides enough description, yet leaves room for the reader's own assumptions. Since the novel only deals with a shallow level of faith, I would recommend this to young adults who are searching or are in the early stages of faith development.

Book Review 010710
ESCAPING THE VAMPIRE: Desperate for the Immortal Hero
By Kimberly Powers
Cook, 978-1-4347-0061-2, PB, 192 pages, $12.99

   The Twilight series has become many teen girls' fascination. Kimberly Powers, a popular teen conference speaker, attempts to share with girls what it is about this series that they find so compelling, as well as why and how they can channel those aspects of every girl's heart to her relationship with Christ. Powers relates well to teen girls, providing points to think on in her "Just Breathe" segments. She also hits on some key areas that contribute to the Twilight fanaticism; however, Twilight and the associated obsession aren't discussed except basically in the first chapter. After that the book deals more with common teen girl issues than anything else (dating, shopping, school, families). Powers has excellent things to say to teen girls, but the title focus of her book isn't hit on well. I recommend this book to church and school libraries whose teen girls are more interested in self-understanding and improvement than in Twilight.

CD-Music Review 010510
ALIVE AGAIN
by Matt Maher
A & R Blaine Barcus, 83061-09062

   The title track to Matt Maher's "Alive Again" album was awarded the "best Christian & Gospel Single of 2009" by Itunes music. And although some of the tracks on the album become musically repetitive, hardly seeming to separate themselves from other artists in the genre, there are a number of tracks that redeem the album as they contain fresh musical harmonies and creative instrumental ensembles. Maher's voice is soothing and easy to listen to, and when he teams with a female vocalist on the track "Garden" the result is heavenly. This album makes a statement beyond the music and beats; it contains deeper lyrical meanings and is filled with fresh ideas with theological implications. It speaks of man's desperation for the Godhead, as well as His desperation for us. Maher sings of grace, and how unworthy of it we truly are. This album attempts to put humanity into perspective as we were once in darkness, but now have the light of a Savior.