Mudhouse Sabbath by Lauren F. Winner

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
Spiritual disciplines rooted in Jewish culture and traditions? Who better to know how to write about those than Winner? Raised a Jew and now following Jesus, she combines the rich heritage of her childhood with a relational encouragement to know the One True God of scripture.

Well worth reading for those interested in spiritual formation.

Plain Change: The Plain Fame Series, Book 2 by Sarah Price

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
If you like romance and adventure, mixed in with culture and a bit of American history, you're sure to like this novel. It's an insider-outsider view by the author who has Mennonite roots. 

Fame and fortune are not sought by all. But for the opportunistic, they matter. When true character meets scepticism and guarded hearts, you have a good story in the making. 

Take it on vacation. Or sit in an easy chair and enjoy the stirring of hearts pulled in opposite directions.

The Call to Serve by Jon Meacham

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
George HW Bush was a patriot, family man, and politician. Today that seems almost impossible in the climate of government.

Recommended for history buffs and political researchers. If you want to know about Bush - whether in text or hundreds of photos. 

It's also a good story about what it means to change the world by being yourself, taking advantage of your opportunities and networks, and doing the best job you can, wherever you are.

Reading C.S. Lewis by Wesley A. Kort

★★★☐☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Another book on Lewis? Not bad - these essays can be read one at a time or grouped. What's interesting about this POV is that Kort examines Lewis' life and works without his faith context.

That to me is like separating the soil from plants - without one the other dies. Otherwise, a worthy addition to the Lewis library of commentaries and observations. Wouldn't Lewis be surprised at the fuss he left behind in his writings!?

Vegan Yack Attack's Plant-Based Meal Prep by Jackie Sobon

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
On the run? But want to eat healthier? (Hint: not all vegetarian and vegan food supports a healthy lifestyle!)

Sobon provides clear direction for getting meal prep out of the way early, in chunks of work that will keep you eating well all week. This may not be new information, but the book gathers hints and tips and recipes in a useable practical way.

Recommended for vegans and vegetarians alike - or someone who just wants to firm up their nutrition.

Universal Methods of Design, Expanded and Revised by Bruce Hanington; Bella Martin

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
I used the first version of this text to design our first two houses. I'm not a designer or builder but a practitioner. I plan homes to suit our family and business.

This is an indispensable and comprehensive review of basic design principles to help shape spaces that work for everyone, regardless of disability or ability. If you're a decorator, designer, or builder - or just curious about what makes a house sing - you'll want to get a copy.

Missional Theology by John R. Franke

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Ever wondered about the purposes of missions? Why share the Good News across cultures? 

Franke's years in seminary classrooms, theological reflection, and discussion with practitioners have shaped a reference that is valid for all wondering about God's design for missions.

It's thick reading for the average browser but a helpful text for seminarians and Bible/theology students.

The Power of 3 by Robb Hiller

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
"Ask. Activate. Advocate." Those three principles of leadership unlock a new way of thinking and new possibilities of solving problems and caring for your team or family.

Hiller, with a new book out called Running With Joy, encourages leaders to look beyond challenges with hope and passion. Recommended if you're stuck or wondering about next steps - especially when what you're doing (over and over) isn't moving you ahead.

Simplicity at Home by Yumiko Sekine

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
The Japanese are known for culture, intertwined with philosophy and religion. In this book, Sekine examines the complexity of rules that lead to outward simplicity in home and life.

Recommended for those interested in Asian design and worldviews.

Draw Like an Artist: 100 Birds, Butterflies, and Other Insects Step-by-Step Realistic Line Drawing by Melissa Washburn

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Do you know what birds, butterflies and other insects look like? Maybe you think, "I've seen them thousands of times." But do you really know?

In this manual, Washburr outlines structure, shapes, and outlines in ways that make you look again. The unique characteristics of individual types and species will make you smile and challenge you to accuracy and new skills.

The Better Brain by Bonnie J. Kaplan; Julia J. Rucklidge

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
What if your kitchen held the secrets for coping with your neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, and mental health?

That's the premise of Kaplan and Rucklidge, researchers who have spent their careers writing on the subject. Wish sound research and new conclusions, this may be the "fix" or at least "repair" your brain (or your kids' brains) need.

Recommended if you want another option besides drugs or other things that are not working.

The Butler by Danielle Steel

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Steel is a good storyteller. This oldie was published a few years ago, but is a page turner.

Families can be complicated, and that's true for Joachim who become a butler to the rich and famous. Meanwhile, his twin and father's family are sketchy characters across the ocean. How do you reconcile who you've been with a future that tells you something different about yourself?

Good book to read on the train, plane, or bus - or take on vacation. Just be careful of the help.

The Home Share by Sally Clements

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Dublin is bustling with possibilities, not all of them pleasant. Whether you need a place to live, your hard-fought business deal is threatening to unravel, or your elder needs protection, life can get interesting. Mix them all together and you have a story.

A romance, a family tale, a modern adventure - it's here for readers to enjoy on a commute, a long evening, or at the beach.

Next of Kin by Gabrielle Hamilton

Wild things. That describes each sibling - and the parents - of Hamilton. It's such a fascinating memoir that you feel like you're in a novel of essays. 

You'll get to know Hamilton's family from her perspective: sharp, alert, and curious. Recommended if you like biographies and modern histories or your book club needs a fascinating discussion.

Principles of Management Essentials You Always Wanted To Know by Callie Daum & Dr. Ritika Mahajan

 

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
When you're starting out as an entrepreneur, leader, or manager, you need a mentor. Consider this book of basics as just that, whether you study it in a class, talk it over chapter by chapter with peers, or run the concepts by a trusted mentor.

It's not the most exciting but it's challenging and informational. If you manage or lead people, are promoting a project in new regions, or looking to climb the corporate ladder, put this on your desk and open it to the relevant section when you need counsel.

Nowhere Girl by Carla Ciccone

 ★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
A woman living with ADHD? What does it feel like? Ciccone describes the process of learning about and living with ADHD - its challenges, its joys, and its processes. 

If you suspect someone you know - or you - have ADHD, this insider look will give you insight, understanding, and helpful ways to assist yourself or others. Recommended.

A Merry Little Lie by Sarah Morgan

 ★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
When your family's been your life and suddenly it begins to change, how do you cope? Jenny - the caretaking family member - must make adjustments as her family expands, deals with illness, and retirement stares her in the face. 

A story that feels personal and probable with nostalgia, rituals, and family expectations thrown in. A wonderful read in preparation for family time together or as the Christmas season approaches.

Faithful Futures: sacred tools for engaging younger generations by Josh Packard

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
Here's a timely text for anyone working with Western young people in GenX or GenZ. In the classroom we've noticed a great shift in our students over the past decade. They seek personal time and attention from adults ... but on their own terms.

Their focus is more temporal, self-absorbed, and disconnected than that of past generations. It's not that GenX and Z don't want to make a difference, but we notice that their engagements must offer personal benefits and fit their shifting convictions.

It's not easy to be young now. (Has it ever been?) Social media, materialism, and environmental concerns are just a few of the pressures these young people feel.

Packard tackles their realities by listening carefully and respectfully to their needs and wants. His recommendations are supported by rigorous research. He aims to help youth workers "move from theory into faithful practice" as they engage the current generation.

Highly recommended for teachers, lecturers, administrators, and anyone else who works with GenX and GenZ.

Freeing the Wild by Paisley Hope

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

A novel of hope and friendship, of community and new chances. Take this one to the beach - or curl up in front of the fireplace for a cozy romance. If you like country music, that's a bonus.

Holistic Retirement Planning by Ron Missun

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
If you haven't looked ahead, retirement is still coming for you. Unless you're dead, you're going to need more information than "my pension is coming this month." 

Keeping your goals and personality in mind, you'll want to engage your whole person - body, soul, and spirit - in the coming season. Missun provides a blueprint for various aspects of retiring well. Recommended.

Wish You Were Her by J.E. Rowney

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
A thriller and mystery in a beautiful setting. This one's for the person who likes to read on the edge of her seat. I didn't guess the outcome early on, nor did I expect to be pulled in. Surprise. 

Take it to the beach in full sunlight or read it in a room with the lights turned up.

Women in the Mission of the Church by Leanne M. Dzubinski; Anneke H. Stasson

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Sometimes you need stories to remind you of God's work in the world. Though there have been many books and opinions about women in ministry and their place in God's kingdom, this one provides illustrations of women who fulfilled the call of God in the Church, among pressures and cultural constraints. 

Recommended when you feel discouraged, disadvantaged, or unseen. Do what's in front of you. Trust that God will accomplish his purposes for you, as he did for these disciples of Jesus.

Ten-Step Drawing: Everyday Things: Learn to draw 60 ordinary items in ten easy steps! by Justine Lecouffe

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
If you aspire to sketch things around you, pick up this book of beginnings. You'll learn to evaluate shapes, distance, and drawing. It's basic and helpful! with many illustrations and step-by-step lessons.

War Woman: A Daughter's Promise by Sheri Peppers

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
When cultures collide and help comes from unexpected sources, how do you carry out your mission of justice? This novel of historical romance will warm the hearts of those who enjoy fiction set in early American history.

The Bookroom by C. Leonard Allen

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Allen offers his journey of faith in a world obsessed with self-development, introspection, and self-focus,. Older believers will recognize the process of maturing among doubts, fears, hopes, and experiences.

For those seeking certainty, exploring grace or wondering where faith and learning intersect, this is a worthy memoir.

Do It Anyway Devotional by Tasha Cobbs Leonard

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Whether you're hesitant about the next step, careful about making a decision, or stuck in place, pick up this devotional. With personal examples, Leonard explores what it means to gain freedom in Christ. 

The courage you need comes from God and his Word, not from pep talks or self-help. Immerse yourself in 2 months of confidence in God. Recommended for students and those young in the faith.

Surrendering Certainty by Abby McDonald

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
The life of a disciple is more than following precise instructions. The creativity and personality God has endowed on his creatures provide some purposeful direction for us. McDonald brings to life the ways we can "know" God's will for our lives, without having to be told step by step what to do.

This book offers reassurance, examples, and confidence in God's ability to fulfill his purposes in the world. If you live in fear, wonder if you've irrevocably ruined your future by past decisions, or doubt God's love for you, this one's a must-read.

Fox and Furious Rita Mae Brown

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
If you've ever wondered about the culture of fox hunting or life on horseback, this one's for you. I learned about the pursuit, the training, and the excitement of the sport. The novel was unexpectedly humorous, eye-opening, and interesting.

If you're a fan of farm life, if you like the countryside, or if you enjoy team sportsmanship, you'll enjoy the characters and adventures. When you close the last page, you'll feel like you've met and mingled with a whole new crowd.

They Will Tell You the World Is Yours: On Little Rebellions and Finding Your Way by Anna Mitchael

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
As you are born, grow through childhood and into adulthood, there are so many things "they will tell you." How does it feel from the side of the writer?

This book takes you to the collision of exterior experience and the interior life of our expectations and design. Whether or not voices assure you that 'everything is fine,' and 'you deserve everything you want,' the reality of life brings both disappointment and joy.

Worth reading, while reflecting on how your experiences and choices determine how your life and spiritual formation is unfolding.

Stress-Less Leadership by Nadine Greiner

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Greiner explains the kinds of stress and the toll they take on us at home and work. Offering practical steps (and targets), this is more than a how-to book. 

If you implement only a few suggestions, you'll already feel easing of the load of today's busy and chaotic pace. Recommended both for those who are stressed and for mentors of leaders.

‘Cherry’ Ingram: The Englishman Who Saved Japan’s Blossoms by Abe Naoko

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

Our book group is reading this. The basic subjects are not interesting to me personally: Japanese history, cherry trees, or birds. Getting through much of it was a hard slog. The illustrations and photos helped keep me on track.

Written from Japanese and British points of view, this was and intersection of history, botany, governments, and individuals in the West and East. The book is full of dates and facts, travel descriptions, personal observations, and other data. 

It could be of interest those who love Japan, students of geography, politics, and history, as well as those who revel in details of life in East Asian or the UK a century ago.

The value for me in reading it was to explore the history of a passion.

A Million Little Miracles: a Guided Journal 40 Reflections to Awaken Wonder by Mark Batterson

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
 If you were offered the chance to spend the next 40 days coming alive again, would you invest your time? Batterson offers the opportunity to see life and faith in new ways. Pick up a copy and be prepared to wonder at the beauty and grace of the Good News.

Batterson offers hopeful theology and spiritual practices to bring back your awareness of joy and beauty all around you. There's room to write in your responses and reflections. I suggest that you date your journal so you can use it for several years. Then you can see how your appreciation for God and his world, and his people grows.

Really enjoyed this one.

The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra Adachi

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
What if you ignored the expectations of culture, let go all the "should"s of others, and lived life to the full? How could you even begin to loosen the grip of obligations to live a full and meaningful life? 

Adachi encourages you to let go of what you're not interested in and live your life to the fullest - the way you're designed and the way you're wired.

She offers practical tips for avoiding overwhelm such as limiting options that can be made habitual, streamlining rituals, and examining traditions. Even the practical footnotes were helpful.

If you're drowning in details, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or need coaching on the next "small step," this one's for you.

What Next?: The savvy woman’s guide to redefining retirement by Jane Moffett

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
 Ah girl, you worked, you climbed the ladder (or found the job you loved), and were a success at work. Now you're in a new season and ... well, what comes next? Moffett coaches the soon-to-be- and already-retired woman through opportunities and relationships that are post-work. How do you find satisfaction and meaning - and give back as a retiree?

This is such a wonderful addition to a woman's library as she approaches retirement or wades through the life she's creating after she retires. I found it useful, informative, and an excellent manual for self-coaching. But it would be even more powerful with other women's input.

This would be AMAZING as a small group resource. I imagine a group of women sitting around a table in the library or public space, coaching each other with the help of Moffett's incredible book.

Such Good People by Amy Blumenfeld

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
What a story. You never know what lurks in the human heart, though most people look like such good people. When students get caught in a spiral of death, law, and ambition, their lives spiral out of control.

Redemption and reconciliation make this a satisfying read. Highly recommended.

The Maid's Secret by Nita Prose

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
I tried to stay with the story and couldn't - too much description before and between the action (for me). I'm recommending this book for readers who love depth and relationships and family tales. The consequences of decisions may affect a long line of descendants, so beware.

It's riches to poverty, secrets to disclosure, and grandma to granddaughter ... if you like women's fiction and history, this one's for you.

Bad Luck and Trouble by Lee Child

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

A Reacher novel I hadn't met yet? This one gathers his entire army crew for a big adventure, which only Lee Child could dream up. 

There's mayhem, danger, violence (of course, Reacher style), romance - or at least passion - and a plot that keeps you turning pages. If you want a thriller with a bad hero who walks away in the end, here you go.

Reading the Bible with Brueggemann Scripture's Power to Remake the World by Robert Williamson Jr.

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
If you enjoy the theology of recently-deceased Brueggemann, wonder what the fuss was about his thinking, or want to broaden the scope of what it means to live as God's people, this one's for you.

Williamson presents an overview of Brueggemann's writings that is appropriate for the curious beginner in a review that is helpful for seasoned theologians. Whether you agree with the presentation or it expands your understanding, this one's for academics and lay readers alike.

Holly and Nick Hate Christmas by Betsy St. Amant

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
The title made me laugh. And the cover was cute - so I decided to review a Christmas in July anyway. The author is new to me - but it was good fun to read the story.

When you meet someone who is changeable and likable, when you think you figure them out but they continue to challenge and puzzle, the relationship becomes interesting.

Recommended for light reading of romance, family, and festivities.

Waiting for Jesus: An Advent Invitation to Prayer and Renewal by Rich Villodas

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
It was the middle of the year when I read it, with Christmas far away. It captured my attention: this is the one to recommend to your circle for the coming Christ. It will be published in September. 

Villodas presents a rich invitation to enjoy the season of remembering and anticipation. He reminds us of the lifelong adventure, the long wait, and the slow process of trusting God beyond human understanding.

The cover may not be inspiring, but you'll enjoy the depth of reflection. I ate it slowly, day by day.

This is the Advent book I'm taking our small group through this Christmas. Highly recommended.

The Journey of Yes: The Everyday Adventure of Radical Obedience by Brenda Palmer

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
"How can you just leave your careers and move overseas?" asked many of our friends. "Isn't this a big risk? Throwing away everything you've built?"

We replied, "It's not a big yes for us. Because of the 100 yeses we said before this one, this is 'just one more yes' and a step of obedience on our journey of faith."

Palmer writes about the adventure of following Jesus, wherever he leads. In expected and unusual ways, God is writing his own story through our obedience. The question is, do you expect direction if you are unwilling to take the next step you already know? 

Palmer offers reassurance that God knows the past, the present and the future - and radical obedience is the natural outcome of discipleship. When you fail, your story is still being written. When opportunities come your way, God will give clarity.

Whether you're counting the cost or contemplating a shift, read this first. Good enough that several friends have ordered it, on my recommendation.

Coyote Hills by Jonathan Kellerman and Jesse Kellerman

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
The Kellerman's never fail to put you on the edge of your lounger when you open their novels. Adventure, thriller, mystery - it's all here in love, betrayal, and family secrets.

Full of snappy dialogue and action, this dark detective story can fit in your tote or beach bag. "Sin is its own punishment." (Was that from CS Lewis?)

Reframing Women Printmakers by P.L. Henderson

 

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
This history of printmaking and its visual record of methods and gifted printmakers can only encourage and inspire. Whether making art as statement, protest, or observation, women have created prints with strong impact. The photos are beautiful!

Well-researched and illustrated, this is an informative and beautifully written textbook for art students, teachers, and artists alike.

Full Bloom by Francesca Serritella

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. 
A novel about the seduction of perfume? I wasn't sure about it. Starting from the beautiful cover, the descriptions and possibilities draw you in.

A perfume so personal that it changes your perceptions of self? And a fragrance so attractive that others are drawn into your circle? That's the premise of the novel.

I enjoyed the story and was reminded of the smells of the kitchens and wardrobes of my grandmothers and aunties. Thinking of that brought many memories. I guess it's true - smell is one of the subtlest and most powerful senses. 

If you enjoy descriptions and changing relationships, you'll probably like this one!