AMAZON

Since I started this blog nearly ten years ago, I get a lot of random books sent to me. When I say random, I'm talking about books I had never requesedt to review, which includes the satire How To Be A Perfect Christian by The Babylon Bee (Multnomah; $19.99).

Here's the blurb from the back cover:

Do you dream of becoming the poster kid for Christian perfection? Then get ready to be baptized in the glorious waters of modern Christian Culture!

How to Be a Perfect Christian is a step-by-step guide to grow you up from a clueless Christ-follower into a supercharged megabeliever. Discover how to:

*Join The Right Church - See how to ditch that group of hopeless losers holding you back and find a church that's built around you.

 *Vet Your Pastor - Assess his command of sermon acronyms and alliteration - plus his grasp of dynamic gestures.

*Worship Like A Pro - Find out how to have a worship experience that leaves you with that all-important, addicting emotional high.

*Do Life Together - Master the art of never letting anyone get close enough to your life to see what a mess it is below the surface.

Wait! There's Much More - like acting the church potluck and serving the church without lifting a finger. This book is filled with everything you need to be your best spiritual self, even a free inspirational coloring page!

Final Thoughts

Bethany House; 175 pages; Amazon

I don't read very many non-fiction titles, but for some reason I did sign up to review a few "personal growth" titles last year; including "How To Listen So People Will Talk" by Becky Harling.

Published by Bethany House, the author explains to you why listening to others can help strengthen any relationship and to help strengthen your own compassion.

The book is under 200 pages and is a fast read (well, at least for me it was a fast read). There are 10 chapters, where the author uses her own personal stories and scriptures from the Bible to explain why it's important to listen to spouses, family members, girlfriend or boyfriend, friends, or complete strangers. There are exercises and questions to answer at the end of each chapter.

Zondervan; 112 pages; $15.99; Amazon

Now available from Zondervan is the adult coloring book called The Beautiful World: Creative Coloring & Hand Lettering, featuring illustrations & lettering by Megan Wells and interior designs by Mallory Collins.

The idea that there were coloring books for adults seemed a bit silly to me at first. However, after I looked through several titles at local Walmart a year or so ago, I can easily see the appeal. Actually, coloring is no different than any other craft hobby.

Zondervan has jumped into the adult coloring book world by releasing a series of titles under the "Coloring Faith" line, which typical contains Bible Verses along with beautiful illustrations for you to color.

At a whopping 112 pages, The Beautiful Word: Creative Coloring & Hand Lettering features a variety of different illustrations, from abstracts to landscapes, which are all paired with a Bible Verse page. Some of the lettering can be colored in, and normally these pages have an illustrated border.

About the Title:

Are you ready to see your fixer upper?

These famous words are now synonymous with the dynamic husband-and-wife team Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of HGTV’s Fixer Upper. As this question fills the airwaves with anticipation, their legions of fans continue to multiply and ask a different series of questions, like—Who are these people?What’s the secret to their success? And is Chip actually that funny in real life? By renovating homes in Waco, Texas, and changing lives in such a winsome and engaging way, Chip and Joanna have become more than just the stars of Fixer Upper, they have become America’s new best friends.

The Magnolia Story is the first book from Chip and Joanna, offering their fans a detailed look at their life together. From the very first renovation project they ever tackled together, to the project that nearly cost them everything; from the childhood memories that shaped them, to the twists and turns that led them to the life they share on the farm today.

They both attended Baylor University in Waco. However, their paths did not cross until Chip checked his car into the local Firestone tire shop where Joanna worked behind the counter. Even back then Chip was a serial entrepreneur who, among other things, ran a lawn care company, sold fireworks, and flipped houses. Soon they were married and living in their first fixer upper. Four children and countless renovations later, Joanna garners the attention of a television producer who notices her work on a blog one day.

That Patchwork Place; 80 pages; $24.99; Amazon

If you have been in a quilting store or visited an online one, then you have probably seen many different reproduction fabrics.

What are reproduction fabrics?

These fabrics have either been recreated or inspired by a historical quilt or pattern (anywhere from 1775 to 1950).

Now available from That Patchwork Place (an imprint of Martingale) is Preserving History: Patchwork Patterns Inspired by Antique Quilts by Julie Hendricksen, author of Remembering the Past.

The author has put together 15 quilt patterns, all of which have been inspired by older quilts that she has found over the years. She shares photos & patterns of the original quilts (featured as an "Antique Inspiration") as well as the recreated quilts throughout the book.


The quilt patterns are:

Bethany House; 48 pages; $12.99; Amazon

If you've been reading my blog for the last few days, then you might have noticed a recurring theme about coloring books.

No, I'm not talking Batman coloring books or whatever else is popular with children these days. Instead I'm talking about adult coloring books. You know, the ones you can find at your local Walmart in the books section and around the checkout lines. These type of books have become extremely popular with adults of all ages.

Early this week, I received the Live Fearless: An Adult Coloring Book by Margaret Feinberg. It's a religious coloring book that is meant to help strengthen your relationship with the Lord.

The book kicks off with a one page biography of the author and followed by a two page introduction. Then there are twenty different illustrations with an included bible verse in each one. On the opposite side of every pictures is a journal page where you can write down your prayers or whatever is on your mind.

Tyndale Momentum; 112 pages; $15.99; Amazon

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up." - Pablo Picasso

It seems that coloring books are now the "in" thing for adults. You can't go into a department store without seeing dozens of different "adult coloring books" everywhere. Just like any other craft/art hobby, coloring can hep reduce stress and relax your soul.

I've been interested in trying one of these coloring books out, and luckily for me, I've recently received three different coloring books to review.

The first coloring I received is called Restore My Soul: A Coloring Book Devotional Journey by Ann-Margret Hovsepian, featuring 40 devotions with coloring pages.

Each devotional page starts out with a Bible verse followed by a short essay, where she talks about stress and other life's problems. On the other pages next to the devotionals are detailed illustrations with a religious theme.

$9.99 each; Blog Tour, Amazon

There are many little bitty holidays and events that occur in the springtime, including Mother's Day, Father's Day, Memorial Day, graduations etc.. Arriving in bookstores just in time for these events are six Pocket Prayers books by bestselling author Max Lucado.

The Pocket Prayers titles are:

Pocket Prayers for Dads (co-written with Mark Mynheir) - 40 simple prayers that bring strength and faith.


Pocket Prayers for Moms (co-written with daughter, Andrea Lucado) - 40 simple prayers that bring peace and rest.

Pocket Prayers for Friends (co-written with Betsy St. Amant) - 40 simple prayers that bring joy and serenity.


Pocket Prayers for Graduates (co-written with daughter, Andrea Lucado) - 40 simple prayers that bring hope and direction.

Pocket Prayers for Teachers (co-written with blogger Jennifer K. Hale) - 40 simple prayers that bring peace and renewal.


Pocket Prayers for Military Life (co-written by Mark Mynheir) - 40 simple prayers that bring faith and courage.

238 pages; $4.99; Amazon

Just because you are a big coffee drinker (like me), doesn't mean you know every single thing about coffee.

Available now to read on Amazon Kindle is A Coffee Lover's Guide To Coffee by Shlomo Stern, a very detailed eBook that explains everything there needs to know about my making one cup of coffee.

Did you know the first coffee shop opened in 1475 in Constantinople, Turkey?

Did you know the first instant coffee was patented in New Zealand in 1890?

You'll learn where a coffee tree is planted around the world, how the coffee beans are processed and roasted to perfection. Learn about the different tastes/flavors of coffee.

The book goes into detail about the different stages of roasting as well as the the best ways to grind and store the coffee beans/grounds. There are also chapters on instant coffees, decaffeinated coffees, coffee brewing methods, everything espresso related, milk frothing, different coffee beverages, and much more.

Amazon

Now available in bookstores is The Berenstain Bears: Bear Country Fun Sticker & Activity Book by Jan & Mike Bernestain.

Young readers have enjoyed reading the adventures of Papa, Mama, Brother, Sister and Honey Bear for decades. The original husband & wife duo authors (Stan & Jan) have sadly both passed away, but their son Mike has continued to write and illustrate more Berenstain Bears books. The most recent books have been published by ZonderKidz under the Living Lights series; adding a religious themes to the stories.





Made for ages 4-8, the 32-page activity book comes with over 50 reusable stickers.

The activities featured are:

The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Dinnertime
by Ree Drummond
Publisher: William Morrow Cookbooks
Pub. Date: October 20, 2015
Retail: $29.99
ISBN: 978-0062225245
Pages: 400
Buy Link: Amazon  
Product Description: 



Billy's Thoughts:

Happy Cooking
by Giada De Laurentiis
Publisher: Pam Krauss Books
Pub. Date: November 3, 2015
ISBN: 978-0-8041-8792-3
Pages: 320
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:
 
Being released in bookstores just in time for Thanksgiving is the cookbook Happy Cooking: Make Every Meal Count ... Without Stressing Out by Giada De Laurentiis, featuring nearly 200 recipes, time-saving tips and healthy eating strategies for the holidays.

Probably almost everyone has heard of the Italian Chef  Giada De Laurentiis who has had a cooking show on the Food Network since 2003. Happy Cooking is her 8th published cookbook. Why is it called Happy Cooking? Well, the author says she is happiest when she's in the kitchen.

While Italian meals are always tasty, many of them come with a high calorie count, so Giada is compiled together the best recipes that healthy and delicious. She kicks off the book with "First Things First: #breakfast, featuring recipes ("Nutella" Milk; Greens Eggs, and Ham Wrap; Caprese Frittata; Carrot and Apple Muffins, etc.) that will give you just enough energy to start your day.

Find the perfect snack in "Snacks & Small Plates,:" such as The Only Bean Dip That You'll Ever Need; Soy Citrus Turkey Jerky; New, Improved "Puppy Chow;" Warm and Spicy Popcorn; Pumpkin Spice Latte Popcorn; Italian Lemonade; Mediterranean Chile Chickens Wings; Goat Cheese Toast, etc..

It's important to eat many greens each and every day, but it can get a little boring. In "Salads & Seasons," Giada puts several new spins on salads, eggplant and zucchini with recipes such as Better Wedge Salad, Hummus Salad and Herbed Cucumber Salad.

With winter not too far away, it would be the perfect time to find new "Soups & Stews" recipes. Giada has come up with several unique recipes, like Child Watermelon-Basil Gazpacho and "House" Soup; Slow-Cooker Black Bean and Pork Stew.

For those who do like their Italian meals, Giada features an entire chapter on "Pastas & Risottos." A few of the dishes are Brown Butter Tortellini, Pasta e Fagioli with Mussels; Parmesan Marinara; Short-Rib Lasagna; and Pasta Pizza.

American Hunter: How Legendary Hunters Shaped America
by Willie Robertson & William Doyle
Publisher: Howard Books
Pub. Date: October 27, 2015
ISBN: 978-1501111334
Pages: 272
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:
 
Hunting has gotten a bad rap over the years due to public shootings, poaching, PETA and politicians who want to eliminate the 2nd Amendment. Hunting has been a part of American history way before the first Europeans set foot on our country. It all started with Native Americans, whom taught the English colonists how to hunt. The animals weren't killed for sport, but instead they were killed for food and the fur & hide were used for clothing.

Being released today in bookstores is American Hunter: How Legendary Hunters Shaped America by Willie Robertson & William Doyle. You might recognize the name Willie Robertson as he is the CEO of Duck Commander and the star of A&E's Duck Dynasty. I know the Robertson family gets a bad rap due to a few controversies that have occurred over the years. While I don't personally participate in hunting, I do have family members that hunt, so I do have a respect for it.

The book features true stories of America's greatest hunters, such as Daniel Boone, Davy Crockett, Buffalo Bill, Teddy Roosevelt and Ernest Hemingway. Of course there are a few stories that involve the Robertson clan. There is also a little bit of history on classic hunting weapons.

Gather Around the Amish Table
by Lucy Reid
Publisher: Herald Press
Pub. Date: September 1, 2015
ISBN: 978-0836199109
Pages: 272
Buy Link: http://bit.ly/1NfOVUi
Blog Tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/lleid

Review:

I'm sure many of blog readers know that I enjoy reading Amish fiction and that I do know my way around a kitchen, so that should answer any questions to why I would want to review Gather Around the Amish Table by Lucy Reid. I have had a few other Amish themed cookbook, but none of the authors were actual Amish or Mennonite.

However, this books is written (compiled) by Lucy Leid, who lives in the Mennonite community of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Lucy placed an add in the Ivverich und Ender ("what's left over, the ends") section of the Die Botschaft, asking for people to send her "tried-and-true" recipes and stories that go with them. In this cookbook, she shares her favorite recipes from Amish & Mennonite kitchens, heartwarming stories from Amish and Mennonite contributors, helpful tips from Lucy's kitchen and beautiful food photography and peaceful scenes from the Amish life.

Like all other cookbooks, this one is split into different sections - Breakfast; Breads & Spreads; Soups, Sandwiches & Pizza; Salads & Pickles; Vegetables & Side Dishes; Meats & Main Dishes; Cakes & Pies; Cookies; Desserts & Candy; and Snacks, Beverages & Extras.

The Farmer's Wife 1930's Sampler Quilt
by Laurie Aaron Hird
Publisher: Fons & Porter
Pub. Date: June 12, 2015
ISBN: 978-1440241468
Pages: 272
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

While some people might think quilting is just a hobby, actually, quilting has been used to make beddings, clothings and art wall hangings for years. The first known quilt dates back to 3400 B.C..

Now available in bookstores is the The Farmer's Wife 1930's Sampler Quilt from author and quilter Laurie Aaron Hird. The Farmer's Wife was a monthly women's magazine that was published from 1897 to 1939, when it was sold to Farm Journal - lasting until the 1970s. During the 1930s (The Great Depression), the magazine featured a inspiration column, titled "Letters From Our Farm Women." Each and every month, this column would publish letters from readers from around the country, which the letters would offer support and encouragement.


Laurie Aaron Hird shares 99 letters that appeared in The Farmer's Wife during the 1930s and along side each one, she has put together quilt blocks that has inspired by the letters. The book is split into sections, the first half featuring the letters & quilt blocks and the latter half showcasing the assembly for each quilt block, along with directions to make either a lap-size, twin-size, queen-size or a king-size quilt.


After the Wall Street stock market crash in 1929, the country entered the Great Depression, which was an extremely hard time for people, whom all struggled to provide for their families during this time. Each letter featured in this quilt book represents a part of history that shouldn't be forgotten and now can be shared with a new generation of readers & quilters!

Tox-Sick: From Toxic to Not Sick
by Suzanne Summers
Publisher: Harmony
Pub. Date: April 14, 2015
ISBN: 978-0385347723
Pages: 384
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

While many people know Suzanne Summers as Chrissy Snow from the 70s' television series Three's Company and as Carol Foster-Lambert from the 90s' television series Step-by-Step, a few might not be aware that she is also a bestselling author of many nonfiction books. Her newest novel Tox-Sick: From Toxic to Not Sick just hit bookstores last month and has been featured on many programs, including The O'Reilly Factor.

Sadly, many people don't pay attention to what ingredients that are in the food that they digest as this can be a big factor to many healthy problems, such as allergies, sinuses, weight gain, headaches, depression, fatigue, heartburn, etc.. Most of the aliments are caused by the harmful toxins that we put into our bodies.

Suzanne Summers interviews six doctors (Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez, Dr. Sherry Rogers, Dr. Richie Shoemaker, Dr. Walter Crinnion, Dr. Stephen Sinatra and Dr. Garry Gordon), asking them all tough questions of why we're all having health issues and how we can prevent them.