The Cure for Women by Lydia Reeder

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review. 
A stunning look at the medical treatment of women in the 1800s. It carries the development of medicine from assumptions on what was "wrong" with female bodies and minds to increasingly scientific methods of care.

Filled with anecdotes, women's stories, and physicians' understanding - this is an exciting and stunning journey. The Epilogue updates the evolving medical fields that interact with and take care of women's physical and mental needs.

Highly recommended for anyone who loves good stories, cherishes the advances of science, and is interested in how history unfolds.

Start Here: Draw by Moira Clinch

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Beginner? Here's a book of total FUN! If you copy Clinch's illustrations and instructions, you're on the way to illustrating buildings, animals, and anything else you see.

It's the most basic "how to sketch what you see" or imagine. Good pictures, informative text. 

Very helpful if you're teaching or leading and want to put more than a stick-figure on the board, too.

Say It with Flowers by Kelsie Hayes

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Oh so pretty! I'd love this as a gift book or coffee table book. The short notes, followed by flower arrangements are a beautiful tribute to the power of words and flowers. 

Whether you need inspiration for writing a note to someone who has touched your life - or want to browse modern floral trends for ideas - you will enjoy this compilation. It's a treasure trove of classic and current designs.

Making Fairy Garden Accessories Anna-Marie Fahmy; Andrew Fahmy

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
If you are looking for easy and amusing crafts, here's a good instruction manual. Miniatures, especially when they provoke a second look, are currently trending. And fairy gardens have been around for a while, a small second-look in a garden or outdoor space that bring a smile.

I recommend the clear instructions and many photos to gardeners wants a quick project, to parents and kids who need something pretty to make together, and to those who like surprising guests by making them with a double-take in the yard.

Have fun with this one!

The Art of Home by Shea McGee

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
If you like contemporary transitional style - fresh open design and decor - you'll enjoy this book of photos. It's so much more than beautiful visuals, but that's what attracts us to decor, isn't it? 

You'll find instructions for how to begin a design process, how to choose the major components that make your space feel like home. And you'll find details, from layout to lighting to accessories - including trendy paint colors and other choices that make a home seem refreshing, modern, and livable.

Whether you're a designer confirming current American trends, a novice homeowner staring at a blank space and wondering what you got yourself into, or someone who loves beautiful coffee table books, you'll enjoy this.

Self Less by Len Jessup

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

Soooo many books on leadership, so little time. (That's what I thought when I opened the book. But it's easy reading and helpful information.)

If you are inspired by real-life stories of leadership development, this one's for you. Beginning with moving beyond naysayers, dealing with imposter syndrome, and the role of pure hard work, Jessup tells of his journey of business leadership with an attitude of purposeful learning, including when he made mistakes and had failures. 

The author shows how leaders are shaped by their past, their worldviews, and core values. He examines the role of perseverance and resilience, learning from others by listening, and adapting to change. This book is a story of integrity, friendships and mentors, and paying forward all the investments made by others as his leadership developed. 

There's so much more here. If you're discouraged, wondering if you have the guts and ability to lead, or need encouragement for the upcoming season, you'll find it in the story and the "Self-less Lesson"s offered in each chapter. I recommend it for young leaders, leaders in crisis, and those seeking to advance themselves or their organization.

The Arab-Israeli Cookbook by Robin Soans, Claudia Roden

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review. 

This book of stories, photos ,and food will warm your heart and fill your stomach. Lots of recipes from Middle Eastern culture in this award-winning cookbook. 

I like the photos of real people, interesting meals, and backdrops of friendship and neighborly relationships. In this season of war and conflicts, this book is a timely reminder that people are people. Whether someone in power is trying to disrupt, common decency brings us together around the table.

The recipes are organized by type and named for their creators. Made me smile - and hopeful that peace will be rebuilt and prevail through hospitality among Arabs and Israelis (and the rest of us, too.)

Make Art or Die Trying by Stuart Semple

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
This book is pure fun. With lots of illustrations, exercises, and stories, you're encouraged to explore all kinds of art - music, performance, and visual arts. Whether it's about using your original ideas or revising what others do, you'll be inspired and energized as you read.

The cover seems kinda bland for the delights and excitement inside. Enjoy every bit of it! And pull that creativity off the shelf. Get moving and make something new.

How Leaders Learn by David Novak with Lari Bishop

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Learning is a skill fueled by a curious mind. Good leaders are on a constant hunt to find out how things work, what advances there team and the task, and how to look at problems from another point of view.

Novak examines the skills of learning, from tapping into relationships and resources to maintaining an open mindset to putting ideas into action. Whether you are learning from where you came from, where you are now, or exploring new environments, you'll get ideas and practical tips.

Each chapter includes a principle of learning, stories, and resources. It ends with questions to coach you into a deeper understanding of what you already know and where the gaps are that you need to fill.

Excellent for new or experienced leaders in business, religion, or non-profits.

Oxford by Matthew Rice

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
What fun! If you've visited Oxford or lived there for a season, you'll love this book of paintings and information. Or, if you're a tourist and ready to explore the treasures of the city, pick up a copy.

It's a unique look at the architecture and history of a beautiful part of England. Combined art and words have always been part of this university town - enjoy a fresh look. 

I Want to Move On: Break Free from Bitterness and Discover Freedom in Forgiveness by Lauren Vander Linden

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Many of us are not free. We remain tangled up in the past, holding onto bitterness and hurts. We have been betrayed, unjustly accused, or offended. Whether we excuse ourselves, delay forgiveness, or refuse to consider it, we cannot break free from disappointments and offenses until we let go. 

Going through a variety of excuses - self-justification, bitterness as a valid response, assuming offenses, and more - Vander Linden develops an understanding of personal harm and collateral damage, the consequences of holding onto grudges and not forgiving.

If your heart is hurting, if you're ready to change direction, and if you're ready to heal, get a copy. It will transform your future and change the past's grip on your heart.

Friend of God by Rusty George

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

If you've let others define your identity and limit your dreams, you're in trouble. But you already know that. From his pastor's heart, George offers you biblical  hope for a renewed mind and personal security in Christ.

This study from John's gospel, his epistles, and the book of Revelation affirms that you are an integral part of God's plan to save and love the world. He is pleased to be your Father and gives you the freedom to make good decisions, live without comparing yourself to others, and have an eternal destiny.

The forty lessons will encourage you and remind you that your unique design is purposeful and you are the beloved of God.

Organizational Behavior Essentials You Always Wanted To Know by Vic Clesceri

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review. 
 I'm recommending this book to colleagues who teach business. If you are a business student, an entrepreneur, or business owner, you'll also want to pick up a copy.

I am none of the above and found myself interested in the chapters on finance, general management, HR, and marketing. Especially helpful are the quizzes and chapter summaries. 

There is so much information that, whether you're starting out or plugging holes in your current knowledge, you'll learn something from this valuable text. It's an overview of business systems and essential components. (Which even I, not interested in business in the least, found fascinating and instructional.)

Rediscovering Christmas by AJ Sherrill

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
The story of Christmas is a very famous one. It is retold each year with additional traditions: 3 wise men, a barn with a manger, an indifferent innkeeper, angels singing, and more.

When you peel back the layers of myth to the original story and its meaning for us today, you can gain a new understanding of the gift of heaven, God with us - Jesus.

Sherrill offer biblical studies, explanations, and practical exercises. Take these suggestions for entering into the true meaning of transformation by a messiah beyond the mere celebration of a baby on a Christmas card. Get a copy before the next holiday season.

When Faith Disappoints by Lisa Victoria Fields

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
We have many expectations of how life will go. When we follow Jesus, we may have suppose that all will be well. We may assume that suffering and uncertainty are over and God will give us happiness and prosperity without stress.

And when life isn't perfect or smooth, we may blame God for his lack of protection or provision. Whether we are interested in power, lose our purpose, or feel restricted by God, we may find our faith a disappointment.

Fields offers hope that the God we belong to loves us, has our best interests at heart, and is guiding our journey. With scripture and interesting stories, Field provides reassurance that faith is worthy the pursuit and staying the course. Each chapter ends with a prayer.

Whether you are doubting your commitment, straying from your Christian heritage, or uncertain if following Jesus is worth it, read this first.

Through the Valley of Grief by Mattie Jackson

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review. 
Here's a companion for the year - or if you skip days here and there - for the whole season of grieving. you can feel the emotions and spiritual progress on each page, written by someone who has experienced the deepest sorrow and the process of restoration and healing.

"The book I wish I had," writes the author, who lost her husband a year into marriage. There are 4 kinds of devotions: wait (lament); connect (a defense against utter withdrawal); worship (honesty in offering praise from the heart); and hope (peace in the storms that follow a loss).

Each day offers a scripture, a short devotional, and a question to help you consider what you are experiencing. It's a hopeful and compassionate journey from devastation to acceptance. Highly recommended after closure of many kinds - loss of relationships, persons, jobs, and other expectations.

Clearly Agile by Giles Lindsay

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
This manual guides leaders to keep pace with the changes around your organization. When you're wondering how your business can thrive when the market, clients, and employees are in transition, here's the textbook. There are clear steps that can be adapted to your own situation and leadership.

Chapters include information, case studies, takeaways, exercises, and summaries. There are prompts for reflecting and applying the ideas and extra resources. The charts and tables clarify ideas as well. 

Take your time, go through it with your leadership team, and watch the transformation begin as you apply the concepts.

Flowering by Elizabeth Jaime

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review

From ordinary to extraordinary creations, you'll find ideas and directions for selecting, preparing, and arranging flowers and natural materials. This how-to manual shows in clear photos and text the tools and containers you need and how to go about creating bouquets, displays, and compositions.

I highly recommend it whether you're a beginner or have some experience and are running out of ideas. It contains specific instructions and processes that will boost your skills and creativity to the next level. 

What if you're right? by Emily Colwell

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review
Colwell writes with empathy and integrity about her exploration of sickness and need, beliefs and worldviews. While you may not agree with her current state of faith or her conclusions, the journey is an interesting one.

Scripture tells us that each person is uniquely shaped in the image of God with purpose and meaning. Often the people around us try to shame and shape us into their own image. I was blessed with parents who affirmed that God was amazing and able to handle questions and doubts. Human life was a great adventure and there was a reason for the way I was made.

"Don't let anyone put you in a box," was my dad's reoccurring warning.

In this book, Colwell chronicles her journey as a doctor and adviser from the viewpoint that she gets to decide who she is and who she is becoming. I'm heartsick at the direction she's going (the universal god-squad) but interested to see how her life will be shaped by honest enquiry in the future.

The Clarity Advantage by Timothy J. Tobin and Roger S. Peterson

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review
Need coaching on your personal communication style? Maybe you have no idea why people who were sitting up when you got to the group have slumped, turned off, or walked away.

This is a good start to understanding the why and how of clear communication. You'll learn how to declutter your verbal and physical communication, step by step. Torbin and Peterson present 10 common trip-ups in sharing your information or story and 5 pathways to clearer presentations.

Recommended for leaders, public speakers, and students in communications. 

Organizational Learning Communities by Andy Lancaster

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review
Fact-based, chart-rich, and applicable, this is a good textbook for business and leadership classrooms. I liked the format. You can browse the table of contents for a key idea, read more if you're interested, and wrap up the section with an action step. 

Great when you need short exercises to empower your group or students to remember a segment, too. Recommended.

A Win Won Situation by Reggie Gray

★★★ ☐☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
Gray writes a short practical life manual based on his own experiences as a successful businessman and a family man who learned what was important through his failure as well are connections. 

You don't need a degree to get some valuable life lessons from this one. Good for when you have a few minutes to pick up some tips - grab and copy and keep it for those breaks.

I'd also have it on hand when I needed to give a short talk to a team - and didn't have it planned out. = About what matters in work and relationships.

The Joy of an Uncluttered Life by Joyce Meyer

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

How do you function when there are multiple demands, many people tugging at you, and lots of things to maintain? 

"Everyone" has probably heard of Joyce Meyer, a high-capacity female pastor with a global reach. If not, this will be a good introduction. She's got a lot of irons in the fire and a lot to say, but somehow she manages to find balance. How? Be keeping the most important things as the core and not focusing on trivia and distractions.

You can do the same. If you feel like your life is too full, Meyer offers 100 days of finding freedom by evaluating what is true, noble, and right and shedding the rest. Each practical snippet highlights a scriptural principle that will anchor you in what matters most: loving God and loving others.

Even the Least of These by Anita Skeen

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
The poems and prints are so beautiful that I seek out a bigger screen. I want to read and see beyond my phone's limits.

When your attention is becoming unfocused or blurring by overload, grab a copy - it will help you to see what is right in front of you: food, laundry, work, nature, and more. You'll be surprised how the word and prints bring you back to yourself when you need a breather.

Recommended for artists, poetry lovers, and those going blind and tone-deaf to the beauty of this world.

Book Nooks by Vanessa Dina and Claire Gilhuly

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review. 

I enjoy coffee table books. This one is sure to find a favored place in many homes. The cover drew me in and inside, the photos are beautiful. They encourage browsing, whether you have a few minutes or an hour. The text is interesting - you'll explore 13 ways to display your books, whether on the floor, a shelf, or stashed in a little unused space.

There's so much to like about this book. I enjoyed the houses displayed, the reading recommendations shared by well-known authors, and the ideas. What made me smile most was the categories for each chapter - whether that was the kind of person you are or whether you're setting up a bookshelf for others. 

If you're into decor or design, make you sure get a copy. It's artsy, classy, and will motivate you to head for your nearest bookstore to pick up some volumes of your own. I loved it.

90 Best Days Ever by Hannah Isted

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

The cover looked like a girly journal, maybe full of platitudes and cute quotes. But flip it open and it's much more than that. You're suddenly on the fast track to flinging your treasure into the public square. Isted starts with the reason for choosing 90 days to focus on marketing. From the first day, you're given guidelines for defining your goal with inspiration, motivation, and clarity. 

Many entrepreneurs and service providers have a unique idea for filling a market need. However, how do we match our skills, ideas, and dreams with what others need or will buy? This book can help. Each day presents a greater understanding of your target market, the social skills you need to become visible, and clear methodology. It closes with a practical application step to move you closer to your goal.

Whether you're starting a new career or revising what you have, this book will lead you step by step into the new world of marketing, in 10 minutes a day.

Creative Resilience by Erica Ginsberg

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Artists are prone to ups and down. It doesn't matter if you're in dance, or writing, or painting, or music ... you name it (and there are many more ways to express the world). There are many books on managing finances and studios, collaborations, and networks. 

Ginsberg focuses on keeping your heart beating - or restoring your resilience if you've burned out. How do you get back in the groove and do what you're designed to love? Here are practical tips on motivation, organization, accountability, and confidence, whether you're in a season or success, waiting, or failure. You'll like the creative check-ins at the end of each chapter, too.

Recommended for all creatives. Before, during, or after your inevitable artistic crash.

Doing Good and Doing Well by Michael L. Kaufman

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
What if you could move up the ladder at work and exercise great influence as a helping professional? Kaufman explores and explains how the resources, networks, and tools you have already acquired set you up for success. He describes the skills and value of helping professions that give 10 advantages for success right off the bat.

Whether you're in education, HR, medicine, practical vocations like building or maintenance, you have worked through crises and solved problems. 

Kaufman offers the read a boost for morale as well as practical ways to move forward and overcome obstacles. Get this if you're bored or looking for advancement and a raise!

The Illusion of Control by Wolfgang Linden

 

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Brain science isn't always fun or readable. Some of it seems like pure nonsense outside the medical community. Here's an exception - science and everyday practicality in one volume.

Most of us think we have more control of our circumstances and reactions than we actually do. Here's a book that gives you a reality check.

If you want real-life help for your whirring brain, family and friendships troubles, and work anxiety, Linden provides a lot of information and applications. The short sections let you target what's keeping your struggles from letting you thrive, sleep, or lay down your destructive habits.

Here's a "why, what, and how" - in bullet points and next steps. Grab a copy. 

The Baxters by Karen Kingsbury

★★★★★  What a sweet set - you'll love the Baxters. They experience most of life: illness, heartbreak, family and work challenges, yet keep their faith at the center. Start with this prequel if you want a clean novel series with spiritual content. Oh, and there are romances old and new to keep you smiling.

I'd also recommend this if you're a politician or manager trying to understand the American Christian worldview. Kingsbury nails the interests and aspirations of healthy Christians as they face challenges in this compelling and interesting story.

You'll like the people, relate to the circumstances, and look for the next books once you turn the last page of the saga. Good luck in reading only one of these!

Quilter's Scrap Pantry by SusanClaire Mayfield

 

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Oh my. You have as many scraps as I do, after a few years of sewing? Do you have a hard time tossing a perfectly good strip or squares? What to do? 

Mayfield comes to the rescue, demonstrating how to organize and use those offcuts. There are block patterns, quilt layouts, measurements, and more. You even get templates to label your scrap drawers or boxes. 

It's short. It's concise and practical. I liked it. And I'll use it. I'm looking forward to making some exciting quilts with my memory fabrics. 

Kew Answers for Everyday Gardeners by Kew Royal Botanic Gardens

 

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review. 
You know it's going to be good if Kew has a hand in it. If you've ever wondered how their gardens thrive, here are 101 answers. (Actually more.)

Whether you're thinking about gardening, starting out, or dealing with a problem as an experienced gardener, you'll want this to-the-point guide. Bugs, compost, sunshine and water, soil ... plush pictures of lush plants that incite envy. Don't let the understated cover fool you.

What's not to love? For basic and skilled gardeners, here is your short answer manual for all your questions.

Master the Art and Craft of Writing by Leon Conrad

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
 A valuable resource for teachers or students of English or writing, from high school through university. From the rhythm of language to usage of specific parts of speech to making your writing come alive for the reader ... here are 150 ways to play around.

I'm going to snag some of the exercises for my Research and Writing courses. Wish I'd had it earlier this year when I taught international university students the basics of writing with good English and style.

Fermented Vegetables, 10th Anniversary Edition by Kirsten K. Shockey; Christopher Shockey

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
 Nice to get an update of this classic with today's look. This is a book I'd pass to my husband, who likes pickles and vinegar-based foods.

The reasons for fermenting (gut health for one!), the methods, and the instructions - they're all here, wedged between photos to document the processes.

If you think you'd like to do some canning, need to add  fermented foods to your diet, or just want to learn something new, grab it for your kitchen bookshelf.

The Smart Mediterranean Diet Cookbook by Serena Ball and Deanna Segrave-Daly

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
These docs-dietitians know what they're talking about. Their emphasis is on keeping your mind sharp and healthy through food. Full nutritional information and easy instructions are coupled with photos that will make you hungry.

If you love the Mediterranean diet or just want to check out what the fuss of the past few years is about, get a copy.

Greekish by Georgina Hayden

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
A mix of Greek/Cypriot recipes that are easy and appeal to those who like Mediterranean ingredients. There are old and new recipes, and the book is loaded with photos that will make you hungry. 

Grilled watermelon salad anyone? How about cheese dishes? Or Greek-style breads. I made me salivate before I even made the first recipe. Lots of fun in this one, and worth a buy and at least a dozen tries.

Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan

★★★★ ☐  A second chance romance from a readable author. It's a reminder that not all is what you expect or anticipate - sometimes it's actually better. The middle can be hard; the uncertainty excruciating. But when you have a happy ending, you close the book with a smile of relief. 

Enjoy it when you need light reading or something to pass the time on your commute.

The Snow Bride by Debbie Macomber

★★★★ ☐ A fun and flirty novel about what could go wrong - and why that's sometimes the best thing possible. Between a crazy mom, a lying letch, and a few people looking for romance, this is good entertainment.  

If you need light and easy reading with an interesting story but no demands, this may be a good choice.

31 Days of Praise by Ruth Myers

 

★★★★★  

I thought I reviewed this already, years ago when I first read it. Maybe not. This prayer journal lasts a month. Every so often, I pick it up for a month of meditation. I learn something from each topic, expressed in verses paraphrased into a prayer.

It's rich, scriptural (no additional comments), and nourishing. I recommend it during a dry spell, during a time of spiritual longing, and whenever you want to realign yourself with the God of lovingkindness and mercy. 

I'm always encouraged when I read it. I date my journal's line-or-two and when I'm done, flip the page in anticipation of the next day.

Leadership in Turbulent Times by Doris Kearns Goodwin

★★★★★  (Yes, it's that good.) 

I'm generally uninterested in American history but Goodwin has taken an exceptional look at 4 leader who shaped governance and business: Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, and Lyndon Johnson. Those guys would be horrified by the politics of today.

Dividing the book into their early interest and entry into politics, their mid-career disappointments and discoveries, and their legacies, the author takes us through the parallels and divergences of these leaders. 

I highly recommend it - whether you just like stories you can learn from or are a history buff. Great lessons for business leaders, too. 

Oh, and when I finally look at the cover, I see it's won a Pulitzer prize. (No wonder. I learned a lot.)

Finding Your Path to Publication by Judy Penz Sheluk

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
You have an idea and dash down an outline. And maybe you "write a book." But what about the stuff of publishing? What about copyrights and agents and options for putting you book out there? What about getting paid?

Here's your clear guide to terms and processes in the book industry. Ignore it at your peril.

The Narrow Path by Rich Villodas

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
This is a bit scary so buy it at your own risk. What if all disciples of Jesus actually lived the way he said? What if they actually imitated their Master? 

That's the challenge Villodas offers the reader: what did Jesus say about the transformation of the heart? In what ways should our actions reflect our proximity to Jesus?

Using the Sermon on the Mount as a foundation, the author asks some deep questions and throws a wrench into the half-hearted commitment of many so-called Christians. 

Get it. Reflect on it. Examine your own heart. Mine is pounding with possibilities.

Integrating Psychology and Faith by Paul Moes; Blake Riek

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
The authors offer broad summaries of prevailing worldviews which provide foundations for psychology. They include such a "dual-kingdom" models (sacred vs secular), natural vs spiritual worlds, and the influences of various Christian traditions. Then they move to Christian "approaches that take psychology and theology seriously on their own terms."

Moes and Rick explain the transformation of purely secular psychology that occurs when this science comes from a Christian viewpoint. Themes that produce a humanizing metamorphosis include integration of science with Christian/biblical values, taking human agency seriously.

This textbook is suitable for psychology courses in Christian universities and as a student reference. Thoughtful discussion questions at the end of each chapter and an extensive bibliography provide resources for further study and classroom interactions or assignments.

Make your art no matter what by Beth Pickens

★★★★ ☐ When you're ready to move beyond excuses to action, here's your coaching book. I've recommended this to friends who are professional coaches because the topics are relevant across disciplines - art, business, life ... anyone could benefit.

Pickens' questions are excellent and focused, whether you are stuck about time, energy, money, or other common ticking points. The last coach I talked with noted how incredible it is to have these mentors available today.

Pickens will take away all your "good reasons" and help you prioritize what matters to you. That may not be what you think it is - and knowing that everything has a tradeoff and you can put certain things on hold can be reassuring.

Another book that belongs on my bookshelf - and yours.

#makeyourartnomatterwhat #bethpickens 

Progress by Johan Norberg

★★★★ ☐ If you watch the news, you've probably bought into the story that the world is going to hell in a hand basket. Life, society, and the planet are so terrible that they are imminently burning up, freezing out, on fire, under water, or ready for another cataclysmic disaster.

You need this book.

Norberg examines 10 factors that make today "the good old days," as he puts it. These include a look at the food supply, modern sanitation, life expectancy, the environment, abundant literacy, places of freedom ... and more. Life has never been THIS good, he argues.

I was encouraged by his broad view of facts from current research and history. He may make an optimist out of you, so if you struggle with depression and tuning out because "this is such an awful time to be alive," you may be in for a pleasant turnaround. 

Get the book!

When Religion Hurts You by Laura E. Anderson

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
It seems like a lot of previously religious people are tossing in the towel. They're becoming areligious or anti-religious. Sometimes they walk away from settings where they cannot bring their doubts and questions to God or religious leaders. Sometimes it's because of cultish abuse, mental anguish, sexual trauma and other issues.

Anderson gives hope for healing from such traumas. She uses psychology to consider the control issues and abuse that lead to fear and lack of trust in adults and authorities. She does a good job.

I recognize much of what she writes about. My family and my husband's family grew up in a high-control ethnic church where peer pressure (on adults and children) and edicts from the pulpit were prominent. Those defined what was acceptable in theology, recreation, and clothing (hey, no jewelry but brooches; though fancy hats with feathers and other ornaments were ok).

Preachers defined and warned against interactions "with the world." Any thinking child or teen knew some of the strict prescriptions were a double standard or just made no sense. But we went along with it and carried on as a group.

However, the balance for me was that our family had a personal faith and welcomed questions. We children could ask our parent questions as long as we asked respectfully - no sassing or badmouthing. (I don't consider genuine respect for authority to be abusive; it was healthy and reassuring for kids.) My mom and dad sincerely answered with what they did and didn't know. And they encouraged my brothers and me to search the scriptures for ourselves and pray for guidance. 

That worked for me. We left a lot of the cultural baggage and narrow theology behind as university students and adults.

And then we had children who grew up in the next generation of faith. We were much less restrictive but still rule-bound as "strict" parents. So our kids challenged us even more.

We did some weird stuff with dress codes. Ask my daughter about the skirts she wore over her shorts in elementary gym class - what was I thinking? By her teens, I resorted to "wear whatever's modest" for our fashionista, since living in Seattle in the 90s offered grunge clothes in dark, limp, secondhand cover-ups. 

"Don't you care what your kids are wearing?" asked people at church. (Nope. "Modest enough, they're not naked," made this mama happy.) 

And that happened with other things. Because our own parent allowed us to explore the faith, we gradually shed the culture and unclenched our religion. As parents ourselves, we chose the principles of Love God; Love others as more important than following religious mandates that were not in scripture.

"I hate the dumb rules," said one of our teens of the strict codes of behavior and dress in his private school. "I don't think any of this matters. And I don't want to be a hypocritical follower of Jesus by looking good and being unchanged inside like some of my classmates."

"I think you're right, but you're in a place where it matters to your teachers," I replied. "Definitely don't adopt a fake religion with an unchanged heart. Work out your faith with God ... because God is not afraid of your questions. You made a promise to obey him when you were baptized, so take up your issues with him."

So he did. And he came out not only alive, but with more questions and a thriving robust faith.

I'm sorry for those who were brutalized by abuse. I understand the pain like some of our young peers experienced without the balance of being able to ask sincere questions and develop healthy skepticism against strange old-country habits. They weren't able to assimilate truth while living with weird cultural constraints and autocratic boundaries. 

If you're one of those, this book will help you heal. Just don't throw it all away because other stuff got mixed in with scripture. Don't deconstruct to the point where there are no core values left as foundations for growth and abundance.

Always remember that God's not afraid of your questions. The One whose math keeps the planets spinning and the God how hope who renews the ground isn't afraid to let you explore. He cheers your search for what's real and applauds when you leave behind what's been added to his grace, justice, and lovingkindness.

--PS The people Jesus got angry and frustrated with were religious leaders who insisted on adding their burdens to the freedom and liberty of a life with God. Check him out in the eyewitness accounts of his contemporaries in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.