Divine Signatures, The Confirming Hand of God

From Goodreads.com:As Latter-day Saints, we know God exists, but sometimes we may wonder, "Heavenly Father, are you really there for me?"

When trials seem beyond our ability to bear, some people lose their spiritual bearings, while others are made even stronger. How can we strengthen our faith and deepen our testimony to the point that we can endure whatever life holds in store for us and emerge stronger than before?

In this unique book, Gerald N. Lund shows how having a correct idea of God's character, perfections, and attributes is essential to our ability to strengthen our faith and develop our testimony.

He also reminds us of how much God loves His children and that He "delights" to bless us, especially when we are striving to do His will. As and example, Elder Lund introduces the idea of a "divine signature": "Sometimes blessings come in such an unusual manner and with such precise timing that they accomplish something in addition to blessing us. They so clearly confirm the reality of God's existence that they buoy us up in times of trials."

Throughout the book, Elder Lund relates story after story - some from Church history, some from his own life, and some from acquaintances - that illustrate the inspiring and life-changing insights he shares.

This book is a powerful blend of personal reflection and deep doctrine that will help us identify the tender mercies and "divine signatures" that abound in our own lives and which will lead us closer to God

Short Story From first draft to final product

From Goodreads.com:SHORT STORY is not a typical "how to" guide. I spent time looking for a book which would show me how a "raw" story was developed through drafts, with comments received and the changes made. Struggling to find such a work, I decided to create my own, being transparent and honest in the details.

Using the story that gained me an offer of a place on a Master's in Creative Writing, SHORT STORY will take you through three drafts of the work.

The book details not only the major revisions, feedback given by a professional novelist and an academic, but also has a bunch of tips from my writers toolbox condensed between the drafts.

I hope that the process provides something useful for you, be it a tip from the writing toolbox, a look at the editing process, or motivation in knowing that you can do better than I did!  


My Thoughts: It took a bit to get through but I enjoyed the items he brings up about writing. Nothing really new but good points just the same.

Moving in His Majesty and Power

From Goodreads.com:My father finished working  on the manuscript of this book just ten days before he passed away. By that time he had little energy, but in the last weeks of his life, he was focused intently on two almost-consuming priorities: spending time with his family, including giving blessings to grandchildren who had not yet received one, and finishing his last manuscript.
As these priorities exemplify, Neal A. Maxwell was a teacher. He loved the word of the Lord. He believed with the psalmist that the word of the Lord "is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" (Psalm 119:105). He observed, "When one sees life and people through the lens of His gospel, then one can see forever" ( Ensign,  May 1974, 112). That perspective guided his life's work.
Dad often said the gospel was inexhaustible, and his actions underscored that belief. The gospel was for him an endless source of truth and joy; he found the study of it invigorating. He taught it in his daily walk and talk and through his sermons and books. His desire to capture in words the insights and connections his perceptive mind noted stayed with him throughout his mortal life.
At my father's funeral, President Gordon B. Hinckley noted: "I know of no other who spoke in such a distinctive and interesting way. When he opened his mouth we all listened. We came alive with expectation of something unusual, and we were never disappointed. . . . Each talk was a masterpiece, each book a work of art, worthy of repeated reading. I think we shall not see one like him again" ( Church News,  31 July 2004, 3).
Moving in His Majesty and Power  is the last installment in Elder Maxwell's printed legacy. It includes, in revised form, three talks he gave in the last two years of his life and which he felt were worthy of publication. It also includes a section of succinct, penetrating gospel insights on a wide variety of topics, similar in format to that of his previous work, W hom the Lord Loveth.
I hope you will enjoy this book. More importantly, though, I hope my father's objective in writing it will be achieved, namely, to help us resolve to become more committed disciples and to deepen our gratitude for the inexhaustible gospel he loved so deeply and proclaimed so tirelessly.
Cory H. Maxwell


My Thoughts: I love reading Elder Maxwell. I enjoyed listening to him more but this was close.
This was a great collection of final thoughts from a great man who had gone through so much, yet stayed so humble and close to the Lord.

A must read for any who enjoy Elder Maxwell
 

Temples Sacred Symbolism, Eternal Blessings

From Goodreads.com:Modern temples aren't just pretty white buildings—they are Heavenly Father's classrooms. When we enter His holy house, the Lord teaches us through symbols so we can understand and retain more of the sacred instruction provided there. In this book, David J. Ridges not only helps us find these symbols within temple walls, but he brings to light profound symbolism as found in ancient Israel’s tabernacle worship and elsewhere in scripture. As you understand the symbols explained in this book, your experience will be redefined with deeper meaning.

My thoughts:At first glance of the title I had high hopes of something a little more "deep" but in reading it I could see how the author could not go there.
I still found this book to be a great read and helpful in confirming my thoughts on symbolism and also where it can be applied in the scriptures.
A sort of quick read but one you let sit in your brain and ponder on it afterwards

Quenching Spiritual Thrist

 

Really 4 talks combined on 2 CD's but I count it as an audio book

 

Really good

I Need Thee Every Hour

 

From Goodreads.com:

The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the most important even that ever or ever will occur at any time or in any place in our universe. It is a gift not only for our last breath and the last day of our lives, but it is also for every day of our lives and every breath of our lives. For it is during the hours of our everyday lives that we work out our salvation, usually unobserved by others, sometimes feeling alone, and often feeling opposed.
Though commonly mentioned in the Church, the Atonement of Christ is frequently misunderstood by many of the Saints. It is often viewed as a tool that is only to be employed when dramatic sins are committed. However, the Atonement is something that should be a part of every facet of our lives ‹ in both joyful periods and challenging times.
Drawing on his personal experience as a husband and bishop, David Vandagriff has written I Need Thee Every Hour to help readers see how the Atonement can encourage us and improve our lives as we realize the enormity of the Savior's sacrifice and how far it extends. Using real-life stories, each individual chapter discusses how the Atonement relates to different areas of daily life ‹ including death, prosperity, trials, service, and undeserved suffering ‹ to show how the Atonement is the foundation of all hope and the proof of a loving God.

Migthy Miracles

From Goodreads.com:

“We do have miracles today—beyond imagination . . . What kinds of miracles do we have? All kinds—revelations, visions, tongues, healings, special guidance and direction, evil spirits cast out. Where are they recorded? In the records of the Church, in journals, in news and magazine articles and in the minds and memories of many people.” —President Spencer W. Kimball
Elder Matthew Cowley witnessed and participated in countless miracles throughout his storied life. As an Apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, from 1945 until his death in 1953, Matthew Cowley was among the most spiritually powerful and well-known of the Lord’s servants. In this compilation of vignettes, taken from personal journals and correspondence, as well as the treasured memories of those who knew him best, the details of many of his most miraculous experiences, including healing the blind and witnessing the raising of the dead, are painted in vivid detail. From his early missionary work with the Maori people of New Zealand to his widespread influence as an Apostle, Elder Cowley blessed the lives of Church members around the world with his gifts of faith and healing. Sure to edify and uplift, this biographical portrait of one of the Lord’s elect will inspire readers to recognize the mighty miracles in their own lives.



I Loved this short book

Spiritually Anchored in Unsettled Times

 

 

From Goodreads.com:As the latter days grow later and later, opposition, complacency, and uncertainty can cloud our view and bog down our steps. Whether we are new converts or lifelong Church members, sincerely trying to follow Christ in today’s fear-filled world can make us feel acutely aware of how far we have yet to go.
How, then, do we stand steady in such a world while continuing to move with surety toward the “better world” the Lord promises his true followers (see Ether 12:4)?
In this candid book full of personal stories and rich doctrine, Elder Bruce C. Hafen helps us think and feel in fresh, deep ways about faith, reason, and other elements of a well-anchored testimony — one that will stabilize, orient, and energize the disciple’s quest for that “better world” while “abounding in good works” in this one. The book shows how developing such faith is a process, not an event — a process that includes overcoming the snares and stagnations that punctuate our life’s paths.
Elder Hafen here teaches us how we can again feel movement and find joy in the journey, with both anchor and sail so well set that “the furious wind” that blows “upon the face of the waters” actually hastens us “toward the promised land" (Ether 6:5)

Amaed By Grace

From Goodreads.com:Do we believe we are saved by grace? With access to sacred scripture and modern revelation, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ought to have special insight into the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the amazing power of grace in our individual lives. Yet how many of us truly understand grace and how to unlock the power it contains?
In Amazed by Grace, author Sheri Dew considers four questions: What is grace? What difference can grace make in our lives? How does the Savior make His power available to us? And what must we do to gain access to the Savior's power?
Expand your understanding of grace and broaden your gospel horizon with Sheri as she reminds us that "the central, most compelling, most life-changing message of all time is that Jesus Christ already triumphed over sin, death, hell and every kind of misery. Surely there is nothing our Father is more eager for us to understand than the breathtaking scope of the Atonement of His Son and the power the Atonement makes available to us."

My thoughts: A very quick and simple read yet I enjoyed it so much.
A must read for anyone who has ever thought of Christ's grace.

Kingdom Keepers 4

From GoodReads.com:For the five teens who modeled as Disney Hologram Imaging hosts, life is beginning to settle down when an intriguing video arrives to Philby's computer at school. It's a call for action: the Overtakers, a group of Disney villains, seem to be plotting to attempt a rescue of two of their leaders, both of whom the Disney Imagineers have hidden away somewhere following a violent encounter in Epcot. A staged attack by new Overtakers at Downtown Disney, startles the group.

One of their own, Charlene, is acting strange of late. Has she tired of her role as a Kingdom Keeper or is there something more sinister at play? When caught sneaking into Epcot as her DHI, acting strictly against the group's rules, Finn and Philby take action.
Has the "impossible" occurred? Have the Overtakers created their own holograms? Have they found a way to "jump" from the Virtual Maintenance Network onto the Internet, and if so, what does that mean for the safety of the parks, and the spread and reach of the Overtakers? Are they recruiting an army from outside the parks?
A dark cloud in the Kingdom Keeper era is unfolding, and with dissention in their own ranks, it's unclear if there's any chance of escape. (less)

 

Same as the other 3 but if yhou like the books read it.

Odds are you're going to be exalted

From Goodreads.com:In this hope-filled book, Alonzo L Gaskill reviews the teachings of the scriptures and modern prophets to instill in readers a greater sense of God's unfailing love and mercy and of His power and desire to exalt His children. Exaltation may be not only possible but probable!

This book took me a long time to get through, not that it was extermly deep or hard to follow I just kept getting distracted by other things.
I guess that in it self is a review of the book. Some make me never want to leave, others I drop quickly, and others I want to get back too. This one landed somewhere in that range.
I am glad I read it and would recommend it to any Saint.
 

The Sabbath: His Gift to Us, Our Gift to Him.

From Goodreads.com: The Sabbath provides refreshment, renewal, and spiritual protection for all who will obediently participate. As we keep this sacred day holy, we become holy ourselves, little by little. 

—Dennis C. Gaunt

The powerful principle of appropriate Sabbath-day worship is vital to the happiness and eternal progression of the Lord’s children. However, the call to keep the Sabbath holy can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and visions of lengthy lists of prohibited activities. In The Sabbath: His Gift to Us, Our Gift to Him, nine prominent Latter-day Saints—from bestselling authors to gospel scholars—look beyond the lists of do’s and don’ts to address the true spirit of Sabbath-day observance.This compilation of doctrinal guidance, prophetic counsel, and personal testimony serves as a sweet reminder that the Sabbath is a sacred gift—most importantly, it is a day full of possibilities for personal and spiritual growth. Learn to make the Sabbath day a delight as you find joy in service, build your spiritual reservoir with study, and strengthen your relationship with the Savior by joyfully remembering Him.

My thoughts:Interesting collection of several authors thoughts on the Sabbath and what it all means.
If you are looking for a book that spells out do this, avoid that, this is not the book you want.
It does lead the reader to examine their own ideas and beliefs not he sabbath and what it should mean to themselves and their families.
I would recommend it to anyone looking to increase their ideas on the Sabbath

The Screwtape Letters

 

From Goodreads.com:The story takes the form of a series of letters from a senior demon, Screwtape, to his nephew, a junior "tempter" named Wormwood, so as to advise him on methods of securing the damnation of a British man, known only as "the Patient".

Screwtape holds an administrative post in the bureaucracy ("Lowerarchy") of Hell, and acts as a mentor to Wormwood, the inexperienced tempter. In the body of the thirty-one letters which make up the book, Screwtape gives Wormwood detailed advice on various methods of undermining faith and promoting sin in the Patient, interspersed with observations on human nature and Christian doctrine. Wormwood and Screwtape live in a peculiarly morally reversed world, where individual benefit and greed are seen as the greatest good, and neither demon is capable of comprehending or acknowledging true human virtue when he sees it.

My Thoughts: I found it very interesting that even though this was written in 1941 it still is so 100% true account of human nature and how we are tempted.

This is a must read for readers

Legacy of the Force: Bloodlines

From Goodreads.com:A new era of exciting adventures and shocking revelations continues to unfold, as the legendary Star Wars saga sweeps forward into astonishing new territory.

Civil war looms as the fledgling Galactic Alliance confronts a growing number of rebellious worlds–and the approaching war is tearing the Skywalker and Solo families apart. Han and Leia return to Han’s homeworld, Corellia, the heart of the resistance. Their children, Jacen and Jaina, are soldiers in the Galactic Alliance’s campaign to crush the insurgents. 

Jacen, now a complete master of the Force, has his own plans to bring order to the galaxy. Guided by his Sith mentor, Lumiya, and with Luke’s young son Ben at his side, Jacen embarks on the same path that his grandfather Darth Vader once did. And while Han and Leia watch their only son become a stranger, a secret assassin entangles the couple with a dreaded name from Han’s past: Boba Fett. In the new galactic order, friends and enemies are no longer what they seem…


MY THOUGHTS: I have to admit I enjoyed the old familiar characters being older and working through life.
The way Jacen Solo was written bothered me. He was to narrowed minded and not at all like I expected a Jedi Master to loose control.

If you are a star Wars Fan read it.

The Eye of the World

From Goodreads.com:The Wheel of Time turns and Ages come and go, leaving memories that become legend. Legend fades to myth, and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth returns again. In the Third Age, an Age of Prophecy, the World and Time themselves hang in the balance
What was, what will be, and what is, may yet fall under the Shadow.

This was a very long read...and a slow start...almost quit during the first part since it moved so slow, but about 1/4 into it and it picked up.

I enjoyed this even if it was a bit wordy. High fantasy at it's best!

The Sorcerer's Daughter

The third stand-alone Shannara novel in the Defenders of Shannara series, following The High Druid’s Blade and The Darkling Child, easily accessible to new readers of epic fantasy.

The daughter of a reviled sorcerer, Leofur is nothing like her dreaded father. When her life-partner, Paxon Leah, leaves on a dangerous mission, Leofur protects Paxon’s sister. When she is abducted Leofur is forced to choose between saving Paxon from a mission gone badly awry, or hiring the services of the best tracker in the world to go after her life-partner’s sister.

This was a good stand alone book by Brooks.
His former works for me time and time again.
If you are a fan of his this is a must read

Miracles and Massacres

From Goodreads.com discription#1 bestselling author Glenn Beck gives us inspiring, courageous, and little-known stories from American history, from the Founders through September 11.

Don’t miss the huge bestseller Miracles and Massacres, history as you’ve never heard it told and incredible events that you never knew existed.

HISTORY AS IT’S SUPPOSED TO BE TOLD: TRUE AND THRILLING. 

Thomas Edison was a bad guy—and bad guys usually lose in the end. 

World War II radio host “Tokyo Rose” was branded as a traitor by the US government and served time in prison. In reality, she was a hero to many. 

Twenty US soldiers received medals of honor at the Battle of Wounded Knee—yet this wasn’t a battle at all; it was a massacre. 

Paul Revere’s midnight ride was nothing compared to the ride made by a guy named Jack whom you’ve probably never heard of. 

History is about so much more than memorizing facts. It is, as more than half of the word suggests, about the story. And, told in the right way, it is the greatest one ever written: Good and evil, triumph and tragedy, despicable acts of barbarism and courageous acts of heroism. 

The things you’ve never learned about our past will shock you. The reason why gun control is so important to government elites can be found in a story about Athens that no one dares teach. Not the city in ancient Greece, but the one in 1946 Tennessee. The power of an individual who trusts his gut can be found in the story of the man who stopped the twentieth hijacker from being part of 9/11. And a lesson on what happens when an all-powerful president is in need of positive headlines is revealed in a story about eight saboteurs who invaded America during World War II. 

If the truth shall set you free, then your freedom begins on page one of this book. By the end, your understanding of the lies and half-truths you’ve been taught may change, but your perception of who we are as Americans and where our country is headed definitely will.

My thoughts.

Be sure to check the notes in the back as a lot of stuff was imagined based on how they interpreted their research. So the end product is more "based on a true story" historical fiction than accurate history. 

I knew some of the stories but some I did not.

I enjoyed this...not sure if i can recommend it but if you like Glen Beck then give it a try

Man's Search for Meaning

From Goodreads.com:Psychiatrist Viktor Frankl's memoir has riveted generations of readers with its descriptions of life in Nazi death camps and its lessons for spiritual survival. Between 1942 and 1945, Frankl labored in four different camps, including Auschwitz, while his parents, brother, and pregnant wife perished. Based on his own experience and the experiences of others he treated later in his practice, Frankl argues that we cannot avoid suffering, but we can choose how to cope with it, find meaning in it, and move forward with renewed purpose. Frankl's theory--known as logotherapy, from the Greek word logos ("meaning")--holds that our primary drive in life is not pleasure, as Freud maintained, but the discovery and pursuit of what we personally find meaningful.

At the time of Frankl's death in 1997, Man's Search for Meaning had sold more than 10 million copies in twenty-four languages. A 1991 reader survey for the Library of Congress that asked readers to name a "book that made a difference in your life" found Man's Search for Meaning among the ten most influential books in America.

My thoughts:I know quite a few that found this book to be life changing. I did not. If I had read it back in the 70-80's maybe.
The first part details the authors time in Nazi camps during WWII and I found that extremely interesting and thought provoking.
I found myself coming back time and time again to the simple question of what would I have done if put in the same circumstance. I didn't have a solid answer. I have what I hope I would be and od but never will know thank goodness.
The last part of the book goes into the authors  brand of science of the mind. It is now a bit outdated but it was nice to read where he got his ideas from and so much more agreeable than Freud.

The Holy Secret

From Goodreads.com:Many today carry a secret: We do not love what we have been commanded to love. We do not love what is holy. Although we might reverence things that are deemed holy- the temple, for example, and the scriptures, and the Sabbath- we do not love them. Not really. Not with our whole souls.

The Holy Secret is the story of a man who learns how to love what matters. As he does, he learns another secret: Love for holiness transforms life itself. His realization of what he had been missing may lead you to some discoveries of your own!

I listened to this on CD and found it better than I reviewed last time. In truth I didn't even realize that I had read this in 2010 until I logged on here and saw I had done so.
This book is a "story" to bring to light a way to study the scriptures. I still did not hear anything new but enjoyed it more than before.
I do find myself wanting to be like Al in the book. To have that knowledge at the tip of your finger...well I know how to get there! I would recommend a listen or read to help you think about a different way to study and get into the scripture sturdy

Previous Review 2010:Not sure what to say. I know most love this book but for me I was a little bored. I am not trying to brag but there was not anything new to me here. I have dug into my reading as suggested for quite awhile now but I still recommend this to any who want a idea on how to start their study of the scriptures.

The Tempest

This is one of my favorite plays. Not only of Shakespeare but all plays.

It has Family, Drama, revenge, comedy basically everything.

A must read in my Opinion 

Darth Vader and Friends

Don't know if this really counts as a book or not but I read it anyway. I found the pictures to be wonderful and the inside jokes brought a smile to my face.

I know there are others by this author and look forward to reading those.

A quick must read for all Star Wars fans.

Star Wars; Remnant

To be fair I really did not realize that this is book 14 in a series when I started.

The action parts were nice and the characters seemed true to who I had in my head.

 

Will revisit this once I read more in this line of books that happen before this one.

The Forgotten Carols

This is a fun book!
Even though it is not near Christmas I enjoyed rereading this again.
I have seen the show numerous times and have all the Carols committed to memory.
If you sort of like the show this is a must read!

The life changing magic of Tidying up

From Goodreads info:
Despite constant efforts to declutter your home, do papers still accumulate like snowdrifts and clothes pile up like a tangled mess of noodles?
Japanese cleaning consultant Marie Kondo takes tidying to a whole new level, promising that if you properly simplify and organize your home once, you'll never have to do it again. Most methods advocate a room-by-room or little-by-little approach, which doom you to pick away at your piles of stuff forever. The KonMari Method, with its revolutionary category-by-category system, leads to lasting results. In fact, none of Kondo's clients have lapsed (and she still has a three-month waiting list).
With detailed guidance for determining which items in your house "spark joy" (and which don't), this international best seller featuring Tokyo's newest lifestyle phenomenon will help you clear your clutter and enjoy the unique magic of a tidy home - and the calm, motivated mindset it can inspire.
My thoughts: Some basic ideas but when she got into thanking your clothes for the good work they have done for you as you discard them I started to giggle.
Then when she said you needed to touch every one of your books to wake them up and give part of your energy I smirked.
Then she said she got rid of over 200 books and encourages clients to do the same then I stopped liking her ideas.

This is a pass...basically to tidy up you look at an item and ask Does this bring me joy? if yes you keep it if no you toss it.

50 Signs of the Times

From Goodreads.com description:
"Signs of the Times" are prophecies given by the Lord to bear witness that the last days are here and that the Second Coming of the Savior will occur soon. As His return grows closer, more and more of these signs are being fulfilled.
In this book, David J. Ridges describes 50 of these prophecies, placing them in one of three general categories.
Each prophecy is designated as:
1. Fulfilled
2. Being Fulfilled
3. Yet Future
The format is concise and makes it easy for the reader to see these signs of the times at a glance and get more information about each one as desired.
A detailed explanation of the actual events which will take place at the Second Coming is also included.
My thoughts: This was just an OK book. I know the author put a lot of time into it but I really didn't find out anything new here. Guess that is a good thing concerning the subject matter.
I felt like I was sitting in a lecture hall with the author up front reading his presentation...

Writing Magic: creating stories that fly

From Goodreads.com description: In Writing Magic, Newbery Honor author Gail Carson Levine shares her secrets of great writing. She shows how you, too, can get terrific ideas for stories, invent great beginnings and endings, write sparkling dialogue, develop memorable characters—and much, much more. She advises you about what to do when you feel stuck—and how to use helpful criticism. Best of all, she offers writing exercises that will set your imagination on fire.

With humor, honesty, and wisdom, Gail Carson Levine shows you that you, too, can make magic with your writing.  

My Thoughts: This was a simple approach to the act of writing. It differed in most writing books in that it gave plenty of exercises to do and assignments that were to be followed to get you in the habit of actual writing.
I found a few of her thoughts to be new and useful for me.
If you are a writer or want to be and need a quick couple of ideas, then this quick read is for you.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

From the Book: Set years after Return of the Jedi, this stunning action-packed adventure rockets us back into the world of Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, C-3PO, R2-D2,and Luke Skywalker, while introducing a host of exciting new characters, including Rey, Finn, BB-8 and Kylo Ren.
Darth Vader may have been redeemed and the Emperor vanquished, but peace can be fleeting, and evil does not easily relent. Yet the simple belief in good can still empower ordinary individuals to rise and meet the greatest challenges.
So return to that galaxy far, far away, and prepare yourself for what happens when the Force awakens...
My thoughts: I liked this book overall. Of course it suffered from being written based on the movie, most of these types of books are not as good as the movie, this fell into that trap.
Also since it was based on the movie the plot holes and story problems I had when watching the movie were here and even more pronounced.
But...IT'S STAR WARS!!!!
I had hoped it would add a bit more info into some of the open ended spots I had in the movie but it didn't do a lot of that.
I did listen to this on CD (or MP3) and it was really well done. It had John Williams music from the movie as well as sound effects. Listening to Chewy growl is better than reading Chewy growled.
The speaker (Marc Thompson)was fantastic with his different voices. In fact at first hearing Han Solo talk I thought they had brought in Harrison Ford. In fact I will search out other books he has done just to listen to him and his talent.
This is a must read if you like to read and enjoy Star Wars. In fact I would recommend you do the audio book if you don't mind those. I checked mine out from the local library and then put it on my iphone.

Commitment

From Goodreads.com:  Author Vaughn J. Featherstone explains the necessity of living a Christlike life, being willing to change plans when a better course is presented, and striving to constantly increase our own light that others might also be guided to the truth. As we begin to understand and make these commitments, our lives will blessed and we will truly become an instrument in the Lord’s hands for good.

I first read this book when it came out in the early 1980's. In rereading it I was happy to see that some of the main points on the authors on what defines "commitment" still stand today.
How you act, dress and treat others all shows your level of commitment.
I would say this is a must read for anyone that wants to improve how they get things done, even if just a little bit
 

The Scarlet Pimpernel

I really enjoy this book! I know people either love it or hate it, and I can understand that. As I got to the end I thought back on how there was not one sword fight, nor thrilling chase. There was not one part of "action" in the whole book, yet I was smiling and glad I had once more spent time here.
The reason I love this book boils down to it's characters! Percy is one of my favorite hero's.
Don't know if I recommend it or not but I sure enjoyed it and will reread it every couple of years as I have already done 3 times.

Tarzan of the Apes

I first read this some 40 years ago and then again approx. 25 years ago.
I have seen all the movies and read other version, but nothing is like the original. Well ok some are just as good but to think back when this was first written and how long it has survived.
If you have never read the book but think you know the story you owe yourself to read it. (To be totally honest I listened to the audio book on my phone as we shopped and ran errands yesterday. Ben Kingsley voice was so perfect for the story.)

Fablehaven:Secrets of the Dragon Sanctuary

 I liked the action, except I am getting annoyed by Seth and how no matter what he does it is the perfect answer to the problem even if he did it without thinking.
The new characters are nice additions and the changes or revelations on the standard cast are nice (except Seth, can't stand that brat)
Only other part I have as a complaint about the story is that something's just happen so easy and conveniently get solved. As with other YA fiction the kids appear always smarter than adults, every adult. This might just be a by product of reading so much of it lately.
This is a must read if you are into the series. I look forward to starting the next installment after my next book.

Increase in Learning

From the Book Description:

The overarching purpose of Heavenly Father’s great plan of happiness is to provide His spirit children with opportunities to learn,” writes Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. But how can we best learn the things we need to know and do?

Elder Bednar emphasizes concepts, patterns, and processes that invite each of us to act and learn fundamental truths for ourselves. Declaring that answers to our questions always are found in the doctrines and principles of the restored gospel, he provides a framework in this book for learning those doctrines and understanding with our hearts.

 

 

My Thoughts:This was a bit of a let down. It is divided into 4 chapters with Elder Bednar introducing the idea and then talking just a bit on the subject. He then would add a lot of scriptures about the chapter. This was followed by copies of Talks he has given that support the subject of the chapter.
At first I felt annoyed that I had spent the money on a book that included so much already published items, but in going through it found this to be helpful since it made me read it. If the talks had just been referred to I would not have ever looked them all up.
The best part of the book was the accompany DVD of Elder Bednar and his wife talking with several groups of people. I have watched and re watched this several times.

Sermons in a Sentence.

From the Book description:Quotations from the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price, with brief commentary.

My Thoughts: This little book is full of ideas and stuff to think about.
Basically it takes a word or group of words form the scriptures and Bro Bytheway gives a small page of insight.
While it did not have the stories that make Bytheway so himself, it does contain one liners and other thoughts that you know are defiantly him.
I enjoyed this book and made several marks in it to transfer to my scriptures as well as my book of thoughts.
I must and very easy read

The Paladin Prophecy

From the books description:

Will West is careful to live life under the radar. At his parents' insistence, he's made sure to get mediocre grades and to stay in the middle of the pack on his cross-country team. Then Will slips up, accidentally scoring off the charts on a nationwide exam.

Now Will is being courted by an exclusive prep school . . . and is being followed by men driving black sedans. When Will suddenly loses his parents, he must flee to the school. There he begins to explore all that he's capable of--physical and mental feats that should be impossible--and learns that his abilities are connected to a struggle between titanic forces that has lasted for millennia.

 

 

MY THOUGHTS:I enjoyed this book. It took me a bit to get into the ideas behind it and put aside my constant "Yeah, that is really convenient" as certain things as they happened.
But when all is said and done I enjoyed just as much as some of the comic book hero movies I watch.
The main problem I still have with this book is one that happens in a lot of Youth fiction, that of how stupid the writer makes the adults in the story.
I find it hard to believe that a group of 15 year olds are so much smarter and more cunning than adults, even the evil minded adults, but at the end of the book I became ok with it. Wish the author would have made at least one adult be able to see what was going on and help, or not.
How a new kid at a school can within days root out a evil that has been there for years and not one other adult or student has a clue, even the adults that are suppose to be on the kids side. Oh well, suspend the area of disbelief just a bit more than I usually do and I am ok
All in all I will move on to book 2 with happy smile on my face.

Lifestyles of the Great and Spacious

Really enjoyed this book. The author, with his wit and special type of story telling, takes the reader into Lehi's Dream to help make sense of what it might mean for you.

A lot of the time is spent on the Large and Spacious building (hence the title) but that is probably where it needs the most discussion.
A must read for any Book of Mormon reader wanting a bit more.

Treasure Island

Considering that I never read this until I was 57 years old...what a treat!
This is the basis for so many of our accepted ideas on what a pirate is and how they should act.
Also the perfect picture of the anti villain.
Loved this book.
So many accepted pirate stereo types started here.
There is a reason that great characters and their stories last through the generations and more.
This is one of those classic books.

Man of La Mancha

I love this play and re-reading the words every few years is great. There is so much power and deep meaning in some of Don Quixote monologues is just as meaningful today maybe in some ways more meaningful than back in 1965 when the play first was shown.
This play is Miguel Cervantes' classic novel "Don Quixote" that was written over 300 years ago. " The story of a poor country squire who loves to read about the days of chivalry, knight-errants doing battle on behalf of their 'lady fair' and the evil they face. This takes the highlights of Cervantes' story and brings it to life in a musical. The only thing missing here is the actual music itself, but all the  lyrics and on-stage dialogue is present.

This was made into a movie but this book follows the play not the movie script which differs slightly.
A must read if you enjoyed the play.
Don't know how many people enjoy reading plays but to me it is a sweet experience, especially with one so full of beauty a this one. 

The 7-day Christian

(from the book description) "Christianity is facing great opposition. At the very least, most Christians know what it is like to end up on the "wrong" side of a
"politically correct" conversation. More than ever before, we need believing and behaving disciples- men and women who are ready to stand up, stand together, and change the world one righteous choice at a time.

Filled with personal experiences and heartwarming stories, this book emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with Christian values seven days a week and offers practical suggestions for how to actually pull it off. In addition to finding personal peace and having a positive impact on others, choosing to live as a daily disciple opens the door for tremendous personal development."

 

My thoughts: I enjoy Brad Wilcox a great deal. He has a great way of speaking and talking with people. His books usually carry the same warm hearted, easy going style. This one did not disappoint.

His stories and how they apply to his topic were truly smile worthy and thought provoking at times.

I enjoy his approach that we need to live and "be" our religion every day.

 

This is a must read for any Brad Wilcox fan as well as anyone wanting to get that little extra umph for living a good Christian life.

Come Unto Me.

This book is designed to be a thought for each day book for the year.

In truth I find I do not have that amount of patience and I enjoy reading it over several weeks.

I find that as I mark the thoughts and quotes from different Church Leaders helps me. I in turn take the thoughts I mark and then rewrite them into my gran thought book arranged by subject.

I have often gone to this "book" of my thoughts I have read when I need a quote for a lesson or talk.

A good read whether it is one page a day or more.

(From the Book description)
Elder M. Russell Ballard bears a unique heritage. A descendant of Hyrum Smith and Joseph F. Smith, Elder Ballard was also blessed with two grandfathers who were Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ. Hyrum Mack Smith and Melvin J. Ballard left volumes of their sermons, writings, letters, and family records. In studying their words, Elder Ballard was reminded of this truth: "God is the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Mormon 9:9).
His latest book shares a collection of his difficult-to-find messages given during his service as a General Authority, paired with related teachings from his grandfathers. "What I have taught," writes Elder Ballard, "is largely an echo of what was taught by my grandfathers."
As the three Apostles share a common witness of the truths of the restored gospel, one thing becomes clear: although programs and policies may change, doctrine is eternal. It is both timely and timeless. The doctrine of the gospel is forever relevant to disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.

My thoughts: This was a very nice read. I really enjoy Elder Ballard's ease of story telling.
He showed that most doctrine is the same and is unchanging.
The highlights from his grandfathers was nice to read and you can see where this great man got some of his training.
This is a must read for any who are wanting a quick validation that we are lead by spiritually minded men.
It had applications to todays world and challenges.

The Darkling Child

This was a very nice read. I have read all of the authors books and have seen as others have that Mr. Brooks has a set style and format that works well.
This book changed that up a bit. I have to admit I did not expect the ending to be what it was, and that is a good thing.
This book is part 2 of a trilogy but seems to be abler to stand on its own if need be.
Once more the Wishsong is the center of the story and it is nice to visit it with some items sounding familiar (from other books) and new parts of it revealed.

 

I have a few minor items that made me go HUH but they are very minor.

One that I will mention is for some reason I have no idea how the title fits the story...
If you Love to visit Shannarra then this is a must read.

The Peter Potential

This was a quick and simple read. Basically showing the reader how much they can achieve if they allow God to help.

Following the life of Peter the Apostle the authors point out that even the simple of us can become great if needed.

If you want a nice Sunday afternoon read that will reaffirm that Christ can help you, then this is a good choice