Escape from Zarahemla

I have been a fan of the tennis shoe books since the start. The last in the group have seemed to lose some of the magic. This is the 2nd book in a new story the author started that also used time travel to Book of Mormon times.
Not to give too much away but at the end of this book he basically joins the two story's. Making what was in the last Tennis shoes book even more crowded with almost 15 plot lines if I guess right.
In his authors notes at the end he tells the reader that if you have not read the other 11 books in the other series then you need to in order to get the full story and flavor of the next book which is a sequel to both story lines...not sure how I felt about that.
If you love Tennis shoes and like the first Zarahemla book then read this...if not then you can skip it and pick up book 12 without much problem I would think since all the story lines are hard to keep straight any way.

The Life of Our Lord

This was never meant to be published or read by others. Dickens wrote this to his children.
It is written not only to his children but for their level of understanding. A fathers simple testimony to explain to those he loves about something he feels very important and close to him.
His approach is wonderful yet simple.
I enjoyed this read.

The Story of The Other Wise Man and The Mansion

I have added this book with another by the same author Henry Van Dyke.
These are great Christmas stories.
I have not read these story's before but know them.
Again the written word surpass any other treatment that I have seen.

I think these will be the start of a new tradition of reading in December along with Christmas Carol

Beyond the 7 Habits

As I have stated before on here...I really enjoy Stephen Covey.
This was not really a book but a 4 disc audio of a day long seminar he gave.
The ideas are not new if you have read more than one of his books, but there was some new ideas presented.
His insight into leadership is not unquie but us still refreshing.
If you enjoy 7 Habits this is a good listen and refresher, if not then I would pass.

begin where you are

I really did not like this book. I thought it was going to be advice and help on how to deal with Family members that are Less active in the Church. Turns out it seemed to just be story after story about less active family members and how good people they still are etc.
While I agree people are good even if they don't go to Church I just expected more from a book with this title.
I feel for the author and others mentioned in the book and their family situations.
One thing I saw in story after story that was mentioned in the book is that each circumstance is different and requires it's own approach...so for that knowledge it was worth the read.

A Christmas Carol

This is the first time I have ever read this book cover to cover. I was very glad I took the time. I have seen almost every show or stage play based on this book (Bill Murry is the best to watch while George C Scott is the truest how I envision the character)
The book has such minute details that add so much to the story that I think I will read it every December.

Faith: The Essence of True Religon

This is a collection of talks that were given over the years by Gordon B Hinckley.
It covers a range of topics and I enjoyed every one.
I miss hearing Pres Hinckley speak and reading this book had the same ease with words I have come to expect when i would listen to him.
I fully recommend this book.

In The Dark Streets Shineth

Tonight at Deseret Book as we bought a new Christmas book for our Family reading, I was pleased to see them add this book to the bag saying, "Here's a free gift for shopping with us."
While this is a small book, only 35 pages, it was a fun read.
The best part of the book was texts of the speech's on Christmas eve 1941, days after Pearl Harbour, of Pres Roosevelt and Winston Churchill who had come  across to the white house to meet.

While some may say I shouldn't count this as a real book in my quest for 100, I will proudly count it since it was written, published and enjoyed.
This is a great Christmas read and the DVD that came with it of the 2009 Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas program is priceless.

The Silver Warriors

I have read almost everything this author has written. He has created some of my favorite heroes. This is the start of me finding out that all his heroes are really just one man in several incantations.
All his worlds are connected and the stories intertwined.
This is not the best of his writing but I love the world he creates.
The front cover fits the story and how can you go wrong with a Frank Frazetta cover.
I enjoyed revisiting this from years ago...not as fantastic as I remember it but still I will now have to visit the other books by this author.
Some old friends change with time or more truthful we change...the same is with some good books.

Dr. No

This is my first time reading James Bond. I almost stopped reading the book about 1/2 way through being sort of bored. I am glad I held on and finished it.
The first half of the book sounded like a travel brochure for Jamaica. A lot of filler description to get word count up I thought but then i remembered that this was written in 1958. Most of the readers had never even herd of Jamaica let alone seen pictures or things. A totally different time in the world.
As for the story. Not a hold your breath plot line but OK. No fancy gadgets for Bond just his wits.
Another thing that came to mind is the image of Cr. No. A pure evil type person that sounded almost part robot. How scary was he in 1958 before our senses had been toughened up with all of evil we have seen both real and in the media.
I will try another Bond novel in a few months since most reviews state that this is not one of his best...

No One Can Take Your Place

It took me a few weeks to get through this one on my ereader. Not because something was wrong with it or that it was not informative but simply because of time and opportunity.
I had read this years ago when it first came out. But in rereading it I found new information.
Sister Dew has a way when speaking that captures you and puts you at ease. The same is true in most of her writings.
Not sure why but the section on leadership really stuck with me and wants to to adjust a few things I do and how I approach items.
Through the book you see examples of people doing what they do and doing it well. That can be said for all of us, we each have something to do and no one can take our place and do it the exact same way.
I recommend this one.

Daughters in my Kingdom

This is a must read for every Husband and father in the LDS Church! I know that may sound hard, especially since this book was written and designed for the women of the Church, but in reading it I have found myself left with a sense of awe and extremely grateful for a loving Father in Heaven and His plan for our families.
I learned some new things about what the Relief Society has done through the years and it made me proud.
This book covers the inherent strengths and talents all women have.
Divided into sections that cover history and topics it reads well. In fact it reads unlike any other "manual" or Guidebook" the Church has. In doing a little research I found out the reason. It was written by a single author. This was very refreshing.
I found the middle chapters on working with the priesthood interesting. I know some have been slightly disappointed in the idea that the way to change the world is through being good mothers in the home, but I truly believe it. In order to change a generation start one home at a time.
It made me appreciate my wife so much more and her willingness to be a stay at home mom (giving up the things more money could buy us) and more importantly to put up with me as she helps guide me in being the type of man I need to be.

Wise Men and Women Still Adore Him

This is a simple little book that is perfect for the holiday season. While not quite Christmas I had this on my ipod and as I was laying in bed last night not feeling the best I read it.
The story of Christmas is told from Scripture with a little commentary from Elder Nelson. While not alot of comments the ones that are made really hit home (at least to me last night).
This is well worth your hour to 2 hours it will take to get through it.
A powerful little book for the Holidays

Beyonders: World Without Heroes

I have only read the first book in this authors Fablehaven set. I found it enjoyable. This first book was also enjoyable. A story of 2 teens drawn from this world into a fantasy world where they have to accomplish a great task is nothing new. The author has done that rather well, several items caused me to pull out of the story shaking my head as holes in the story and plot. Example, this new world must speak American English since one of the key moments depends on spelling and pronunciation to be perfect with US English.
I did enjoy the new creatures and parts of the world.
Toward the end I felt it a bit rushed to create a cliffhanger but that was ok.
I did remind myself several times that this is written for a YA audience so my problems with it my not be noticed by the intended readers.
I will read the follow up books as they come out and with that being said this is a recommend read.

A Grief Observed

This is a short, personal journey into grief by CS Lewis at the death of his wife to cancer.
It is thought searching and while I do not agree with all his thoughts on God I found it refreshing to see his journey through his grief.

Grief is so hard for us and it tasks our faith. Mr Lewis was honest in his writings...these came from his journals at the time.

I enjoyed seeing a God believing man question his beliefs slightly only to return to them.
It gave me a look into CS Lewis I had not sought but enjoyed having.

Revelation:Word of Promise New Testament. dramatized

I listened to this today as I did dump runs and helping my in laws in their yard and mine.
Basically the book of Revelation form the New King James version of the Bible dramatized.
The actors were top notch. Lou Gosset Jr was John and his voice was great and easy to listen too even if the topic at times gets deep.
The sound effects helped as did the different voices.
I have to admit that Jim Caviezel really is how I picture Christ sounding at times.
This was well worth the couple of hours to get through it and I think I will look for the whole New Testament at the library. A easy, enjoyable way to listen to scripture.

Matthew's Story

This is the 2nd of the 4 in this series's. Written by the team that brought us the "Left Behind" books. I have read them and enjoyed them even if I did not agree with the doctrine.
This is a the story of Christ's disciple Matthew. From his young boy hood to the Resurrection of Christ. I found it interesting. The weaving in of the slaughter of infants by Herod is something I had not thought about. This event drives Levi greatly.
The story of his hatred for God and wanting riches was well told. Once we got to the call by Jesus and the events of the new Testament it sounded a lot like straight from scripture. I wish the book had gone more beyond the end.
I will read the other books in this group since I find them easy to listen to as I drive or work in the yard.
If you want to know more about the early life of Matthew or what it may have been like read this.

Mission to Be Happy

I had to stay late at work and sit listening to a call of mostly silence while my networking guys worked on a change. During that 2 hours I pulled this book off my work shelf and re-read it. I first rean it last year and thought it was ok. On reading it again I have to say it is still ok. I enjoy hearing how song writers come up with their songs and there is some of that in this book. I also enjoyed the chapter entitled "Your Happiness Your Way"
This is a book inviting the reader to start today to be happy and find what makes them happy.
It has a companion CD and the songs fit the book but nothing really stick with you like most of his other songs. However, the phrase "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired" rings out when needed in my head.
Get this book and make sure you listen to the songs at the end of each chapter, it may or may not help or change your life but is worth the effort for the read.

BrainDroppings

This read like a transcript of a George Carlin record.
Funny, sometimes insightful and entertaining. While I do not agree with a lot of his take on things I find him funny. He was Seinfeld before Seinfeld. His look at the world while sometimes twisted is honest.
His sections on the words we use and how what they mean is funny.

Worth the time if you want to smile.

One slilent sleepless night

Another book I found in my in laws good will  box.
I found this more touching to me since I remember President Kimball very fondly even though I never met him. He was the leader of the Church for most of my "Growing up "time. This is Pres. Kimball's first-hand account of his long night's experience following his 1957 throat surgery, wherein he reviews the memories of his childhood, the death of his mother at his age of 11, his call to the apostleship, and his marriage, are all written in a poignant way. He has a nice way with words,and it makes me want to be more detailed in my own journal writing

Sun, shade 'n rain: Moods of life

Came across this book as I was helping my in laws clean out their storage unit. I sat down after we were done and spent the next hour inside. If you were in Utah in the late 70's and an active member of LDS Seminary you know of Sun Shade n Rain a singing trio. They were perhaps the first Mormon popular religious singing group. Of course the Osmonds were huge but not doing really religious songs. If on your mission you ever showed the film strip "I'll build you a rainbow" then you have heard these guys. I was a big fan and this book by one of the members about how they came together and their life in the entertainment world was great. Much like sitting down and catching up with old friends you haven't seen in a long time. It brought back great memories and I enjoyed reading it before I added it to the box headed to the DI (Goodwill Store)

Fablehaven

I have been pushed to read this book for awhile.
I must admit it started out slow, too many pretty fairies flying about but by the end I could see it was setting a base for future adventures.
Basically a story of a reserve where magical creatures can retreat too.
Through out the story was a main theme of "Rules need to be followed simply because they are rules". This bugged me at times but considering that the audience is the teen market I applaud it.
I think this is the authors firstpublished work, I think it is a good start and have heard he only gets better.
I look forward to the rest of the series.

World War Z

I listened to this on my ipod and am grateful I did. If I had read it in book form I would not have finished it.
Much like the title says it is a oral history of the zombie war.
I had a few problems with it.
1. It is a documentary style of report that talks about a war after it was won. All suspense is removed. Story after story started to sound alike.
2. The interview style of the book seemed very flat and made it uninteresting. On the ipod it reminded me of listening to something on NPR.
A world wide Zombie infestation is a cute idea. How some in the book survived also was good but it grew old.
It seemed to referred to events that were unknown to the reader and were never covered later in the book. This drew me out of the story...well what story there is.
As I said if I had started it in print I would have set it down, but the actors on the CD were great.
I know it is now being made into a movie starring Brad Pitt as the interviewer and it will be interesting to see if they stick with the interview idea or have the film do flashbacks as the survivors recall their journeys.
If you love zombies and often think of how you will survive when they rise this is for you.

El Borak

I have read alot of this authors fantasy novels and some of his other novels. His heroes always pop  off the page and the term "a mans man" comes to mind. (Whatever that means)
His heroes are straight forward warriors, full steam ahead and damn the  consequences.
While El Borak is not fantasy it is great reading. Set in the middle east in the early 1930-40's I would guess, it follows several Americans that have gone there and found themselves. Indiana Jones before the movie type of hero
I still enjoy Krull the best then Conan but El Borak is moving steadily up the ladder.
The writing is almost poetic. Howard paints pictures with words so effortlessly that i am in awe.
I keep finding myself wishing that today's authors would do the same, but in this Video soaked environment it may not work.
Great read...

First King of Shannara

I have wanted to read this book for years. Listed as #0 in the Shannara universe it covers the time before Sword.
I found it very enjoyable to see where things and people came from. Mr. Brooks has a good grasp of all his story lines.
I have now read everything he has written, many several times and I found this one to be in the top 10%.
The action is detailed and while it follows the authors usual formula I still enjoy it.
I would say if you want to start this series to start with sword and come back to this after a few.

Mockingjay

I have enjoyed this set of books. At first I avoid them since everyone loved them so...but I have to admit they were as good as people said.

I enjoyed this end installment. It stayed true to the characters and did not go how I thought it would. While I had been able to guess some of the plot twists I did find my self saying "Oh no she did not just do that!"
That makes this read well worth while

Remember the Promise

This is a $1 find I got from DI. It is a portion of the talks given that EFY conference for 2001.

While it is not all the speakers it has a nice variety.

Not a real thought provoker but still an OK read.

I really enjoyed some of my favorite speakers portions.

The Measure of Magic

Every August I get to read the latest Terry Brooks novel.

This is the 2nd book in a two part set.

It picks up seconds after the first one ended and moves quickly forward.

The characters are likable and the magic that is Shannara is added too.
My only complaint is that it seemed to end quickly and easily. May be too easily.

If you are new to the Shannara world this comes before Sword but should be read after you read the main 3. (IMHO)

Brooks has been accused of writing formula books but hey...when it works it works.

Assassin's Apprentice

I again really wanted to like this book. The plot sounded like a new look at fantasy. A bastard son of a Prince is turned over to be trained as a Royal assassin.

I found this hard to get into. Overall it sounded like a Prequel to more books that are coming. I guess there are more books and I may go to them some time in the future but have found myself not wanting to rush out and start the 2nd book.

I think what I found most bothersome with this book was that it was told from the 1st persons point of view remembering his life.

The problem with this style of writing is that you already know that they get out of any trouble they are in.

I also found the day to day recap of his life growing up very slow.

I wanted death and how he learns to deal it out, not taking care of horses or being hungry and tired from his chores.

I do see how some people can fall in love with this book and the world it has created.

In fact the world of the book is wonderful and the best part of the book I think.

Seventh Son

I really wanted to like this book. I have heard some good things about it. But, I am not a fan. As the books description states: Alvin Maker: the seventh son of a seventh son. Born into an alternative frontier America where life is hard and folk magic is real, Alvin is gifted with the power. He must learn to use his gift wisely. But dark forces are arrayed against Alvin, and only a young girl with second sight can protect him.
Not really knowing if it was Fantasy or Quasi Historical or what may have been part of the problem. However the main reason I was not a fan is that I found that I did not care about the characters. They were written well, the style was easy to read but I just didn't care what happened top them. This may be due to my state of mind right now, I am not finding that I care about alot of characters i am reading, so I will give the 2nd book a chance later...maybe.

The White Dragon

This was the first book on the World of Pern that I ever read. Many years ago. I was attracted by the cover and was not disappointed. Rereading it so many years later I found this to be even more enjoyable.
I enjoy her style of writing and the story has some very memorable characters. In fact some of my favorite characters in any book I have ever read are in here.
I was asked once what characters I would love to spend time with and Master Robbinton from the Pern novels is top on my list.
If you want to dive into Pern this is the 3rd in the group but not a bad place to start

Be of Good Cheer

This book seemed to read like Elder Ashton's talks. Simple straight forward and uplifting.
I greatly enjoyed it. Written in 1987 (well published) it speaks to today's challenges rather well.
Just as the title says "Be of good cheer"
This did not fail in helping me accomplish that

The Greatest Quest

I have read this 4-5 times. Each time I have enjoyed it.
I enjoy the simple writing style of the Yorgason brothers.
I know this has had some Internet nay sayers saying that this is not based on any true story. I don't know or care.
This is a story about a group of friends trying to find the true Church based on items they found in the Bible.

I recommend this book and the study of the list of "points" at the back.

Kingdom Keepers 1: Disney after Dark

I had this on my epub disc of books. As I started to read it I found it somewhat simple and flat. I then found out it is for ages 9-12. Still not a reason to have it be simple in plot I think.
But, I enjoyed this book. Just the idea that after the parks close that the characters are alive in Disney World is wonderful. (Especially to the mind of a 11 year old Disney fan I think)
The idea that bad characters are bad etc is great.
I plan on reading the rest of the series.

John's Story:The Last Eyewitness

I was not sure what to expect from this book. I have read the entire left behind set of books and enjoyed them. I do not agree with all the details but it is still a good read.
This book, I thought, was to be a novel on the life of John the apostle.
It did part of that taking place when John is in his 90's.
I found the parts of a struggling Church and how apostasy was creeping in very interesting.
What I did not enjoy as much was that 50% of the book seemed word for word from the New Testament.
It never hurts to read scripture but i had expected more.
He has 3 more books in this set covering Matthew, Mark and Luke. I have them all on CD so will give them a listen but not too quickly I think.

Walking on Water

I loved this book! I have listened to all the talks I could get my hands on from this author. This book is basically a group of his talks in written format.
Brother Wilcox has a great way of applying the scriptures to our lives.
This is a must read in my opinion.

The Postman

Not sure what I expected when I started this book. I had seen the movie and somewhat enjoyed the plot of it.
This book is different from the movie.
The plot was good, the characters I found that I cared for.
The author did some fore shadowing that really bothered me until the end when it was explained and then it made sense.
When I read a book about life after the end of the world has come I put it in 2 different spots.
1. it is fantasy and full of imagination or
2. it is sort of real life and how would I fit in.
This book was more of #2. Although the whole genetic engineering made me want to skim over parts.
Over all a good use of my time in reading it.

Behold the Man

I was slightly disappointed in this book. I have read the other 2 in the trilogy as well as the authors massive Church History novels.
I found myself not caring about the characterers as much.
At times it sounded rushed yet boring. I enjoyed the personal insight into Christs day to day dealings and how the author had written some of the miracles...raising of Lazarus as an example. But then fond my attention wandering as we had to go into the characters holding hands and their simple dialogue.
I do not know if he was rushed to get this done or tired of the characters but it was not as good as the other 2 books in my opinion.
But if you have read the other 2 you need to finish out the story and read this one.

Magic Kingdom For Sale: Sold

This is my 3rd or 4th time through this one. I enjoy it every time.
I know that Terry Brooks has been accused of formula writing and in a way this is true, this book is a new type of that formula.
I feel it is one of the best written books in the category of Earth man goes into another world full of magic and such.
I did this time with the audio book and found it a great addition.
The actor did the voices so well and I found myself smiling as I walked through the store, or drove the car.
That is one thing this book has...humor.
A great read

Born of Elven Blood

I was disappointed in this book. The characters seemed flat, the story had some good points but they never seemed to be fleshed out.
The ending leaves one wanting to read the next book but as you think of what you just went through you decide to pass.
The plot was typical YA fantasy. Girl from this world goes through  a gateway to a Elven world bah blah

Hope the youth have better choices out there

Gifts: True Stories of God's Love

This book is a bunch of stories collected by the author and told in the 1st person.
They cover Gods love for us from, answers to pray, wonderful priesthood blessings, dreams of warning or preparation.
The stories are short, very short. Most cover only a page so it makes for easy reading when you have only a little bit of time.
I enjoyed this book but I fear that books of this type can do some damage. People will read these stories and wonder why God has never given them answers or experiences like this. What is wrong with them they think. Nothing could be further from the truth.
But sometimes it is hard to remember that.

The Great and Terrible Vol. 1 - Prologue: The Brothers

I was not really impressed with this book. I had such high hopes that it would be wonderful that may be why I was disappointed when it was not.
It did give me a few thoughts on the war in the premortal life.
Some of the reasons the authors has for his characters to choose Satan are valid(at least to them) and I can see the real life comparisons.
I will read more on the series since I have heard this is the weakest book.
I applaud the author for going where few have dared and write fiction starting in the premortal life.

Glenn Beck: The Redemptive Story of America's Favorite Political Commentator

This was a very quick, yet informative read. I read it tonight on my Literati while I watched Boo play outside.
If you love Mr. Beck or Hate him. Agree or disagree you have to admit his is a story worth reading about.
I have met Glenn and his wife once...they were extremely nice people. They were "real".
I thought I knew most of his story but this book held a few surprises while it brushed lightly on other parts I wish it had gone into more deeply.
Not a bad way to spend a hour or so.

At the Earth's Core

This is pure, escapist, set your current knowledge aside, type of read.
Having said that, I enjoyed the book. I know that the rest of the series becomes better (at least I remember it that way)
This is Burroughs doing what he does, write a story that will let your mind disappear. Back when this was first printed there were no movie special effects, 3D screens, no ipods or MP4 movies and one of the ways to escape was to dive into this type of read.

No one writes like Burroughs, at least in my mind.

Catching Fire

I really enjoy trioglys. Usualy the 2nd book is not the best of the 3 since it acts as a bridge between 1 and 3.
I have not read 3 yet but I can say I was pleased to see this was almost as good as the first.
The characters we saw in the first book are back with newly added ones. The plot makes sense and continues the storyline.
I listen to this on my ipod and loved  the voice.
Also what was an added pleasure was, after reading book 1 they announced who would be playing the characters in the movie.
Some I didn't know or care others hit the mark perfectly.
Even though this was a audio book I could see and hear Donald Sutherland as President Snow and Woody Harrelson as Haymitch are perfect!

This is a great read!

El Dorado

This book is part of the Scarlet Pimpernel books. I think it would be #5 in the list chronologically. Yet it reads as if it comes right after the first.
This book contains my favorite characters. Sir Blakney and his group always entertain.
The author weaves a great tale.
This first half of this book seemed to drag a bit. But once you reach the end you see that most of it is needed.
If you love the book Scarlet Pimpernel or even the play this is a welcome read.

I downloaded this free from Librivox and found the reader and quality to compare to one store bought. Some of the readers (well most) for Librivox are what you expect for free, but this was the exception.

My Soul Delighteth in the Scriptures

This is a collection of "essays" from various authors about how scripture study has touched their families and themselves.
I found it interesting and helpful.
Elder Asay chapter on reading the Book of Mormon was very insightful.
This books covers personal and family study.
Since each essay is a stand alone chapter it was an easy read over several weeks, not having to worry about where I left off or wanting to hurry and get to the next chapter to see what happens.

Finding Peace in Troubled Waters

I liked this book. I had the privilege long ago to have met the author and his wife.
The story of how he was able to go on with life after being dealt a horrible challenge is uplifting and insightful.

After reading about his problems I have no room to complain or be feeling sorry for myself.

Young Robin Hood

Popular children's book about the young Robin Hood, first published in 1899.
Considering the time this was written I found it a fun read. As I ended each page I found myself thinking how great this would be to read aloud to children.
Written way before ipods, MTV and Disney Channel this reads with good description.
A story about the son of the Sheriff that is lost in the forest and found and raised for a year by Robin and his men.
I have read a lot of the Robin Hood stories but had never come across this one or even a hint of it.
A short fun read.