book reviews en brief

I’ve read a few books in the past couple weeks. Here is my review:

“Getting Things Done”, by David Allen: Holy cow this book is a lifesaver. I have been a fan of the GTD method for some time now. Most computer nerds implement it in some way or another. I couldn’t make it work for me, though. The reason was that I was trying all the tools without the foundation. It is not an exagerration to say that this book has revolutionized the way I deal with commitments. For the first time in months, I feel in control of my workload (now I just have to work on perspective). If you constantly find yourself avoiding commtiments because you weren’t sure exactly what you had to do, this book will help. If you find yourself overwhelmed because you know exactly how much you have to do, it will help. If you look at the hundreds of piles of projects on your desk, this book will help.

Wait, that’s not true. The book won’t help at all. The information in the book, if practiced thoroughly will help. All I can say is that I am significantly less stressed as a result of getting everything out of my head and into my new system. I finished the book last night, but started implementing about a month ago, and have commented for fear that I may drop out. I’ve floundered, but now know how to get back on the horse.

Percy Jackson book 2: great story, in the style of an old epic tale. This book made me want to finish the series. 4 stars (still a little cliched writing).

Percy Jackson book 3: mediochre. I still want to finish the series thanks to book 2, but this was a bit of a letdown, not sure why. Also, not a very good job of foreshadowing (or maybe too good), since the twists at the end were absolutely expected.

“Walls”, by Ryan Rush: This book was given to me by Tyndale publishers. Actually, I requested it. They sent a free copy, I review it in whatever way I see fit. Long story short, the book was dull. I couldn’t bring myself to finishing the third chapter. It seems like another stereotypical self-help book from a pastor. I appreciate the idea of the book (we build up walls between ourselves and others, including God). I agree that unhealthy boundaries are a primary cause of many problems. I agree that we have to tear down walls that block us off from others and God. But the book itself was just uncompelling. I suppose that if you are suffering from not feeling close to God, and can’t figure out what the wall is, it might help. I don’t know, I didn’t finish it. Think of the book as any other book from any other pastor about their personal “solution to people’s problems that’s worthy of a book since it grew my church big”. I wish Rush the best in his ministry, and think that the ministry itself would be helpful. The book, to me, was not.

“This Is Your Brain In Love”, Dr Earl Henslin: Another free book, this one from Thomas Nelson. Again, I get to review it however I want. So I will review it typing with only one hand. But seriously, I got this book for my wife. She saw the list of available booksneeze books, and said “hey, that sounds contagious”. Well, not actually, but you get the point. It was contagious.

I have read a lot of resources on Christian sexuality (which is not all that different form other’s sexuality it turns out). This is the first resource by a Christian that I have read that is based in neurophysiology. Instead of assuming that the problem is a lack of communication, the author shows you how your brain might be the cause of the problem (manifested in lacking communication). The author started as a family therapist, but realized the strategies he was taught didn’t work. he attended a seminar on brains, and had an epiphany. perhaps relational problems are the result of unhealthy brains.

He begins by describing a healthy relationship, with the best chapter every by any author on sexuality. In it, he basically says that Americans are dualistic and focus more on body parts than sexuality. We need to change. I agree. Then, he describes 5 common brain imbalances that cause tension in relationships: scattered, over-focused, blue mood, agitated, and anxious lovers. Turns out, I’m agitated. He also prescribes non-medicinal solutions to each brain type, with additional info for those who need medical help.

The best part? He never says “it’s not your fault”. He always says, “it’s harder for you because of your brain, but get over it and think right.” Predispositions are factors, but never solely responsible.

Finally, Henslin ends by describing some “best practices” for couples. Practical, honest, and simple enough to be acted on.

Any couple married more than 6 months could really learn from this book.

Note: all pictures were ripped off from amazon.com

On Teenage Fiction

I like to keep current with teen trends. I like to read books. Ergo, I spend much time reading the books teens read. Also, they are a nice break from anything intellectually stimulating, much like Christian literature. here is my review on teenage fiction series (taken as a whole series):

1. Chronicles of Narnia- the original pop fiction written by a Christian. Unlike most other children’s fiction, and most other Christian lit, this series is well-written. Great imagery, engaging story, approachable allegory. This series receives a big fat 6.5 meatballs, which on a meatball scale is enough to cover a footlong sandwich plus a half meatball (aka 11 on an amp).
2. Harry Potter- the subtley Christian allegory wrapped in a demonic shell according to some. Writing: very good, not great. The story: excellent. The whole creep factor: minimal. This series has been rejected by most good Christians because it does refer to a few words people use in Wicca, but refers to them in meaningless ways. The whole “our children are all going to become witches” scare turned out to be nothing. The author, a searching Christian, at least cared enough about her story to have a point. 5.5 meatballs since someone took a bite out of your sub (rocking 9.5 on the amp scale).
3. Twilight- bad writing, intriguing story if it weren’t for Edward and Bella. Teaches kids that you shouldn’t have sex . . . because you will die! Full of manipulative relationships, an excellent example to teens of how not to treat others. A big fat veggie sub (your amp remains unplugged)
4. Percy Jackson- i’ve only read the first episode. It was good enough to read the second. Bad writing, but an exciting story. Probably more evil than Harry Potter if parents took the time to care since it’s all about, you know, false gods. Stereotypical teenage drama: kid doesn’t feel special. Kid learns he has a power. Kid feels special and saves the world by ignoring adults’ wisdom. Kid doesn’t learn lesson. Written like an action movie, at least the story goes somewhere. 3 meatballs (a quiet 2 on your amp while you warm up and practice).
5. Eragon- I’m a total nerd so my score doesn’t really count. It’s clean, it’s exciting, it’s written by a kid. 5.5 meatballs because it has taken so long for book 4 to come out. Warning: he uses magic.
6. Hunger games- I don’t know where to start on this one. Kind of creepy with teens killing each other. Amazing story. I can’t wait for the movies, but I know they will screw up the books. Great writing. The only downside is the whole teenage murder while adults watch aspect, which is downplayed. Subtle allegory for the astute reader. 6 meatballs because nothing is allowed to replace Chronicles. (10 on the amp scale, loud enough to play Squad Five-0’s “Rockin it, rockin it at the apocalypse. It’s rock and roll at the end of the world”)

Now, should teens read these books? That’s for parents to decide. Read it first, and then choose whether or not to let your teens read it. Don’t rely on other’s thoughts about the book until after you have read it. I will let Malachi read each of these series, depending on his age. I will also talk with him about what is in the books, the messages they teach, and how that should relate to his faith. Call me crazy, but sometimes engaging art is a worthwhile skill to learn, even if it’s not Christian. As a parent, it is YOUR responsibility to teach your kids to critically engage culture. Many will disagree with my decision, and I respect that. If you have questions about any series and who should or shouldn’t be allowed to read them, ask below.

Get the intellectual abs of Chesterton without the work!

As part of my own personal full disclosure today, I thought I might mention to you that this post is unofficially sponsored by booksneeze. I hope some time soon to create a separate blog for just my booksneeze reviews, with an amazing title, but not today. Today I will briefly review “The Quotable Chesterton”.

G.K. Chesterton is one of those names Christians like to throw out as if we’ve actually read his books. Realistically, though, he was far too witty, intelligent, and sardonic for our palates. Instead, we need something accessible. Something with just enough content to be profound, just enough sarcasm to be scathing, and just enough wittiness to be unforgettable. “The Quotable Chesterton” is what you need.

Want to have something brilliant to add at you next family Dinner? Tired of being beaten with the wits of your aunts and uncles (you know who I’m talking about)? Grab this book, pick 5 quick quips, arm yourself, and steer the conversation towards those topics. The topics are unfathomably numerous (yes, the letter “Z” has an entry). Virtually any conversation can benefit from your quoting of Chesterton. you, too, can be your own intellectual savant.

Consider saving some of the best corollaries for common conversation. Be just funny enough to get laughs out of the intelligent bunch in the room, but too smart for the average listener. That’s what works best if you desire the Frasier Crane effect.

For late night parties, simply look up the quotes under “cheese”. Bound to receive a laugh or two.

Hundreds of quotes, dozens of topics, differing lengths, all organized alphabetically by topic. Great for creating sermons, or enlightening yourself. All without the hassel of actually reading the content. Spark notes for one of the most well-respected writers of this century. My only beef with the book: too many references to authors and thinkers of years past. Also, not much of a “front to back” read-through. I prefer the random page approach myself.

I received this book for free, so long as I reviewed it (it didn’t have to be positive, and i’m not sure if this review is positive or negative). i will be reviewing it over and over for myself. heck, it even caused me to order a chesterton book through the library. 5 stars.

I must have a bookcold because I just booksneezed again.

My most recent booksneeze revealed a slightly pinkish mucus with an astounding outer shell. “The Sacred Meal” by Nora Gallagher has my favorite cover of the Ancient Practices Series (edited by Phyllis Tickle). A nice dusty rose background punctuated by the antique image of an old chalice and bread. The wine in the cup is dark. Strikingly so. There is no doubt what this episode in an excellent series will describe.

Evidently, I do judge books by their covers.

Originally, i was going to go with “The Liturgical Year”, as it is the topic I am least familiar with. Then, I recognized the author of “The Sacred Meal”. Nora Gallagher is one of my favorite writers. She does not author books, but writes well. Anything she writes is worth reading simply for her skill. This book is excellently written, a series of stories about how communion has affected the writer. Nora brings the reader with her through her journeys into the sacred meal. That part of church which is so significant, so misunderstood, and yet so plain. Like Christianity’s founder, the plainness of communion is only skin deep. Inside that skin lies a mystery more complex than the recipient can imagine. No wonder people accused Jesus of teaching with authority.

The content itself is light on Scripture (which speaks infrequently of communion), heavy on story, and mixed in application. Unlike “The Sacred Journey”, which I adored for its challenges and inconsistencies, Gallagher chooses to view communion from a pluralistic view. That is, search traditions, find what is good, ignore the differences, and hope to speak to every reader in agreeable terms. I preferred “The Sacred Journey”.

Here are some quotes that describe the book’s main emphases:

“More than any other practice, taking Communion forces us to be with others, to stand with them in a circle or kneel at the altar rail or pass a tray of grape juice and cubes of bread. We are forced to be with strangers and people we don’t like, persons of different colors and those with bad breath or breathing cheap alcohol. It forces “them” to be with “us” and us to be with them. (p12)”

“Do this to remember me. Do this to remember who you were with me. Do this to remember who you are (p. 24)”

“A practice is meant to connect you with what is deeply alive, to stir in you the same kind of aliveness that the disciples of Jesus must have felt around Him (25).”

“The first time I served, I felt as if I were walking on quicksand. I lived in fear of spilling. And once, I served a young man in a nice tan T-shirt and I poured the blood of CHrist all down his front. We stared at each other for a second, and then I had to move on. In the sacristy afterward I whispered to a priest, “I spilled wine all over this guy.” He paused while wiping off a paten, looked thoughtful, and replied, “That’s too bad. I guess we’ll have to burn him (63-64).”

“While any ritual can be reduced to magic, just about all of them contain an element of something that is deeply meaningful and human: the element of thanksgiving (77)”.

The last quote is derived from a masterful chapter, #7- Eating and Thanksgiving. However, the rest of the book is good, not great. Perhaps I approached it with too great of an expectation. My fascination with communion has lasted my entire life, and is one of the only things I remember from the Catholic church. This book may be helpful to the neophyte, but for most is just a reminder of what happens when we feast together. 3 of 5 stars.

Sacred Journey Review

Every so often, about twenty years or so, the church remembers her roots. She decides that maybe those so called “legalistic” practices performed in the medieval era had some merit. We waffle between legalism and liberation twisting back and forth from one emphasis to another. Naturally, these ideas are worth reiterating an new and unique ways. And so an industry of writing about spiritual disciplines is created.

When that pattern of waxing and waining on spiritual practices clashes with a cultural shift, we occasionally make decent progress in growing closer to God. That’s what the “Ancient Practices Series” is all about. It’s a series on the supposed 7 ancient disciplines, plus an introduction (the practices being those used by Christians, Jews, and Muslims). Utilizing mostly postmodern or emerging voices, Phyllis Tickle has organized an incredible but approachable library on things Christians do. Since it is written by postmoderns to postmoderns, this series emphasizes existential learning rather than systematic or doctrinal focus.

The last book on the series, “The Sacred Journey” by Charles Foster is much like the others. Difficult enough to contend with, it begins with the phrase “you won’t agree with everything in this book”. Unlike most reviewers, who think every book worth reading is one with which they will completely agree, I find his approach fascinating. It truly is a book with which the reader must wrestle. Sometimes you feel as though you have him pinned, only to find that Foster has already planned his counter move, obliterating your argument about his current point. I walk away from this book with a greater appreciation of the spiritual discipline called “pilgrimage”.

Another common complaint is that this book is not practicable enough. Reviewers tend to either say “I could never do that”, or “he’s talking about our day to day prayer lives. In fact, the book discusses a specific body approach to Christianity. The primary problem Foster has with modern Christianity is that we take the body out of it. We settle for Gnosticism (that is the belief that the body is evil). Practicing disciplines involves our body in spiritual matters. In this sense, Foster’s book stands firmly next to McKnight’s “Fasting” (also a part of the series, and my favorite of the group).

The best part of the book is that reading through it is a sort of journey on its own. As Christians, Foster writes, the difference in pilgrimage is that we focus on the journey rather than the destination. Certainly a contention for most of Evangelical Christianity. I agree wholeheartedly with this point.

While the biblical interpretation is somewhat dubious (Foster sees wandering in every episode of the Bible and argues it is the foundation of human nature and what makes us fundamentally different from animals), Foster’s use of personal experience, and exhortation to “just do it already” compel the reader to find ways to become a pilgrim. I know this reader will start this practice as soon as he can. Full of grace and truth, this book is not a treatise, not a journal, but somewhere in between (which makes it similar to the book in the series on fixed hour prayer “in constant prayer” by benson). By being an existential work rather than a purely theoretical or practical one, Foster blends the genres of devotional and academic literature.

Certainly I disagree with much in the book, but it definitely deserves to be read by many. Don’t read it if you want answers. Don’t read it if you expect to agree with everything. Don’t read it to figure out “how to do pilgrimage”. Like the rest of the books in this series, read it on its own merits. Anyone interested in spiritual disciplines can learn with this book.

I was often not a fan of his biblical explication, nor his inclusion of Buddhist and Hindu examples (which simply didn’t make sense to my western mind). I was a fan of his tone and humility. Consider this book, and when you open the cover, become a pilgrim, seeking to grow closer to God by sharing Foster’s story. Like a close friend, you will want to punch him in the face a time or two. Like a close friend, he will swing back.

5 of 5 stars for elegant prose, good arguments, conversational tone, and applicable challenge.

Full disclosure: i received this book as a part of Thomas Nelson’s Booksneeze program. They tickle my literary nose with free books, I blow out a review within a month. it does not have to be a clean, clear review and can be as green and gunky as I like. Take that FTC

From Tyndale to you:

One of the publishing houses for whom i review books is currently doing an NLT giveaway. Here are the deets:

I wanted to fill you in on an exciting contest that is currently being run and sponsored by the New Living Translation. We’re highlighting three ministries,Wycliffe Bible Translators, Oasis International, and The Dream Center, (click on the link to learn more details about these ministries) and by voting for one of these ministries you’ll be entered to win one of many prizes.

To enter, visit the NLT Facebook page by clicking here.

There are several levels of prizes you can win, here are the details:

With the Give the Word Bible Contest and Giveaway:
• Ministries win: Each time the NLT Facebook Page reaches a fan count milestone, votes will be tallied and the three ministries will receive cash donations from the New Living Translation and Tyndale House Publishers.
• Everyone wins: Everyone who enters on the Bible Contest website wins a free download of Matthew West reading the Christmas story.
• Daily NLT Study Bible winners: Vote on the NLT Facebook page and you will be entered to win two NLT Study Bibles—one to keep and one to give away. A new winner will be chosen every day.
• Weekly Give the Word Locally winners: Tell us about a deserving local ministry on the NLT Bible Contest website and they could win five NLT Study Bibles and $250 worth of NLT products.
• One Grand Prize winner will enjoy a unique trip customized just for them and their family (or three guests of their choice), to Wycliffe Bible Translators world headquarters and the WordSpring Discovery Center where they will experience firsthand the exciting world of Bible translation. The Grand Prize winner could also choose to donate the value of the trip--$2000--to Wycliffe instead.

Then Sings My Soul Review

My most recent review for the booksneeze program (I get a copy in exchange for an honest review, doesn’t have to be good), is regarding a little book I, and the author, like to call “Then Sings My Soul”. That author would be Robert Morgan.

This fairly brief book is a collection of brief bios of some of your favorite songs. Want to know more about “it is well”? It’s there. In fact, the book tells the story of 150 different hymns. As a vineyardian, many of the songs I knew nothing about. Thankfully, most of the biggies are found within the cover of the book. Knowing the background of the song makes the lyrics themselves so much deeper in most cases.

Definitely worth a read, and a great resource for worship pastors, fans of hymns, or a reasonable devotional for the cool cat who won’t stop scatting along with “Ein Fest Burg est Unser Gott” (a mighty fortress is our God). A bio of the author is included with the song, a good index in the back to search by song, bible verses, devotional prayers, and lyrics are also included with each song.

If the book sounds like you would like to read it, you will. If it sounds dreadfully boring, pick up a copy of the Hunger Games series.