Explore the Bible: Genesis 25-30 (Winter 2018-19) by Chuck Kelley (General Editor)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A more in-depth study of Genesis 25-30 with a group of Christians known as Fishers of Men. It is vital to keep one's focus on the lessons God provides for us through His word. A Bible study program is a delightful way to get the word in people rather than people getting into the word. Thoughtful discussion and participation by everyone energizes one to share the Good Word.

First Man: The Life of Neil A. Armstrong by James R. Hansen, Jeremy Bobb (Narrator)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A thorough look at the first man to set foot on the moon; Neil A. Armstrong's ancestry provides insight into his character. Intelligence and bravery are important aspects of an astronaut's mettle and Neil demonstrates this throughout the story. He attributes his analytical way of thinking to a professor back in his college days.

The space program is not a perfect science. It requires discerning cause and devising practical solutions to any problem that comes up in life-and-death situations. The will to persevere and pursue mankind's urge to expand horizons becomes necessary after friends and peers lose their lives chasing incredible feats. Every failure is chance to learn more to avoid such disasters.

The author, James R. Hansen, covers Neil's youth, adulthood, and retirement right up until his last days on Earth. Hansen explains the significance of the space program's accomplishments, especially for the humble Armstrong, whose first landing, first steps, and first words are, now, a major milestone in the history of mankind. The First Man inspires those who endeavor to follow their dreams using Neil Armstrong as a successful template for the kind of person it takes to actualize them. 

Verbal Judo: The Gentle Art of Persuasion by George J. Thompson

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A great book that teaches how to persuade others to comply with a desirable behavior that diffuses crises. Thinking before one speaks and using restraint to control emotional reactions is also essential. The author, George J. Thompson, uses his personal experiences working in law enforcement to perfect his rationale to be a successful interventionist. The book is full of scenarios which, he admits, he cannot always recall, at the spur of the moment, the proper techniques necessary to handle every situation. Thompson recommends the book be a reference source, once read, that requires review from time to time.

Unfettered (Unfettered, #1) by Shawn Speakman

4 out of 5 stars  ****

Imaginative stories by several authors who take the reader to other worlds and times. Some concepts draw upon one's beliefs and axioms of this world by juxtaposing a world quite different to expand consciousness. Even history retold from a protagonist's view entertains with humor and drama that resembles a dream.

                                                                                    

Explore the Bible: Galatians; James (Fall 2018), by James Merritt

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A bible study book that is read personally and discussed in a class with people interested in the moral lessons these portions of the Bible provide.

Without a Country by Ayse Kulin

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A wonderful story about a German Jewish family coping with World War II and the challenges it poses to their survival.

Charts on the Life, Letters, and Theology of Paul by Lars Kierspel

5 of 5 stars  *****

This comprehensive book on the works of the Apostle Paul is a fabulous resource and teaching tool. I refer to this book to assist my education on the Bible, a work I get into to get its message in me.

Easton's Bible Dictionary by M. G. Easton

5 of 5 stars  *****

This book is full of so much information of interest that it is a better reference source than a simple read.

Holy Bible: KJV Standard Size Thumb Index Edition: Burgundy (King James Bible)

5 out of 5  *****

This is my second read of the Bible but the first using the King James Version (KJV). The size of this Bible makes it handy to bring to church and the leather binding creates a wonderful feel. I find this version of the bible a bit cumbersome in the reading because of the older English style at the time of its printing. I use my New International Version (NIV) of the Bible to compare with the KJV. When I contemplate a verse of scripture, I refer to both Bibles at times to see if I miss something in the translation. The NIV also has scholarly interpretation at the bottom of each page, the KJV does not.

Morning and Evening, New International Version by Charles Haddon Spurgeon

5 out of 5 stars  *****

I thoroughly enjoy reading Charles Spurgeon's work; this devotional is no exception. Many a morning and evening I quench the thirst of my soul with Spurgeon's beautiful command of English to convey the significance of scripture.