I Books

I suppose there have been similar books written on the subject of finding the right gift for the occassion;but I doubt that any would be more helpful and inspiring than this one.
Every last one of us loves to give a gift and we all love to recieve a gift as well. Of all the gifts you give or recieve ;the ones most remembered are the ones least expected.
To the person who is always perplexed and says to themselves;I don't know wat to get him or her ,they have everything. Others say ,I'd like to get something but I can't afford it right now.This book will show you that rather than the cost,it's the thought that counts and more important it is the imagination or surprise that you put into it. After spending a little time with this book, you'll be well equipped with ideas that will amaze you. Let's say a neighbour down the street is having a birthday,is just recovering from an illness or such;and you would like to give them a gift,but are lost as to what. Just thumb through tiis book and the ideas will come to you.It may result in you giving them a plant from your garden they've admired,a box of goodies you've made,or something as simple as a note saying how much you treasure their being a neighbour. The fact that it comes totally unexpected will mean so much,just as it woulsd if it had been in the reverse.
The author has many years of experience in the gift business,but that does not mean she leans towards commercialism.She offers suggestions and ideas that cover things that are as low in cost as free, to extravagant for people looking for that "one great gift" and the cost is not an issue.How about this for an example.Fifty-fith Anniversary;which is traditionally thought as Emerald. Don't think just jewellry,how about a trip to Ireland,a new lawn,a golf game or extravagant golfing trip or a visit to a rain forest.Even something more simple such as Fifth Anniversary where Wood is the tradition.Why not a tree,golf tees,a new deck,a wooden hairbrush,a pair of Adirondack chairs,or even a load of wood for their fireplace?
Every type of event is covered in the book with appropriate gifts. Also lots of ideas on wrapping which range from the simplist to very elaborate.
Just to help you keep track of things there is a perpetual calendar at the back to record the dates of everyone and everything you want to remember.
Throughout the book,you will find information about where to find anything you are looking for;with e-mail,addresses,800 numbers,catalogues,web sites,etc.
This book will become as handy and useful to you as your address book,and rather than pulling your hair out over what would make a good gift,forgetting an event or anniversary,or whatever; you will be forever hearing things like this;"O, what a wonderful gift!,I love it!,what ever made you think of that? And most of all;

"It's Just What I've Always Wanted."

Besides,being a bookaholic,I have books coming out of my ears. When I finish one ,I ask myself who might like it,and put it aside for them.When I give a book away,it gives me something too---space for another one!!

This book not only gives lots of great ideas -- it really stimulates your imagination to create original ideas of your own.

I like to give creative gifts that really reflect the recipient, and this book will really help future purchases.

Pet Sematary is a book which is simultaneously one of King's most frightening and most annoying. Like all his novels, this one is a slick, gripping page turner so chock-full of horrifying incident and violations of ancient taboos (cannibalism, for one...) that you just can't put it down. From a mythic viewpoint, the decay of Louis Creed's sanity recalls the structure of Greek tragedy - like Oedipus, Creed destroys himself and everyone he loves through his own arrogance and curiosity, even though he only does what he thinks is right. The plot forces the reader to think about many things normally swept under the rug in sanitized America: the inevitability of death and decay. For me, these themes were most grippingly explored in the sad tale of the decline and death of Rachel Creed's invalid sister - Zelda's transformation from a teenage girl to a wizened, demanding, jabbering thing reminds us that invalids are not noble, and that there is nothing romantic about terminal illness. The main problem I had with this book was the characters. Usually, King is an expert at creating characters so real and vivid that you think you know them. In this case, his characterization of the Creed family seems like an 80's "Leave It to Beaver" - Hi! We're the perfect white middle-class professional family - watch us die! Both Louis and his spoiled wife, Rachel, are the most bland and dull personalities imaginable. Their very ordinariness makes the reader care a lot less about what happens to them, rather than the reverse. Perhaps the problem is that we don't really get to know these people before Louis destroys them all. This is a fairly short book for King - I would have liked a little more convincing character development before the slaughter began. Still, a very scary book if you can handle the boring characters.

This is a marvelous little book full of great ideas on gift giving for any occasion or no reason at all. It's fun and enjoyable to read. Lots of terrific thoughts and resources, including phone numbers and web addresses. Loved the sidebars with thoughty suggestions. The book includes ideas for all age groups and in all price ranges. All in all, just a wonderful find!!!!!

Trying to find your wife the perfect anniversary gift? Got a Christmas gift to buy for that hard to buy for person? Looking for the perfect gift for the new baby? Looking for the ultimate housewarming present? Or maybe you just want to say I love you - whatever you need is right here in this book.

With over 2,000 different, unique and imaginative gift ideas, there is certainly something for everyone and something to give to everyone. You'll find gift for graduation, for those feeling the blues, for baptism and even mother's and Father's day.

You'll be treated to baby clothes, gifts for the golf fanatic, fisherman, gifts the kids can give and even the last minute shoppers have been saved because there's something in here for them. You'll find new ways to surprise that special someone.

Included is an appendix the break down the gifts by category, one appendix for gift sources including web addresses, the holiday breakdown and a calendar for you to fill in as you go. So if you are looking for that just right gift, you might want to start here.

Just what is needed for a simple study guide for leading out a discussion with this book.

I have spent a fairly large part of a long life in Sunday School,
church,Bible Classes, college courses, and daily reading of the Bible and myriad magazine, tracts etc. But never have I experienced a deeper mind shaking treatise on faith and understanding of what Jesus was doing and intended while he taught his disciples and listeners/observers during his time on earth as described in the 4 gospels. My understanding of passages I never could comprehend before is wonderfully satisfying and truly exhilerating. I haven't stopped thinking about it, and doubt I ever will.

Yancey does a good job about allowing us to paint a picture of Jesus in our eyes, and not that of Hollywood. Too often we draw conclusions based upon an image that is handed to us through advertising or visual media. The book takes you through 14 different lessons that help you experience Jesus. Afterall, being a Christian is not about the church, not about hype, not about anything else but your personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

The study guide is an excellent resource for anyone facilitating small group discussion on Yancey's book. The suggestions for how to enhance the discussion are doable, and a variety of options are presented. The study guide is well worth the price.

Decades ago when George Lucas presented STAR WARS for the first time, certain movie reviewers criticized it for its "silliness" and that "it would be easily forgotten." How wrong they were, and how embarrassed they now must be.

Variety has criticized films that are ahead of their time. Take for example the TV movie A CHILD CALLED JESUS, starring Matteo Bellina. Variety complains about long shots, excessive makeup, amateur sets, unrealistic dialogue and unsynchronized dubbing.

But many people who have seen this film have praised it for its uniqueness compared to other Jesus films. Just visit www.imdb.com for reviews about this film. If you watch it, you will be mesmerized by the long shots; you will see that the makeup is NOT excessive (the actors have very natural skin tones compared to Cecil B. de Mille actors); you will observe that the sets are as natural as they should be in a Middle Eastern country; you will appreciate the dialogue as the words would personally touch you; you will tolerate the dubbing because this isn't even the fault of the filmmakers.

I am glad that this book is recommending the watching of this film to help readers understand the Jesus they never knew. Although it may seem that some parts are apocryphal, they do not necessarily go against the Gospels. These unbiblical scenes "could have happened" -- for didn't the evangelist John say that Jesus did so many things that they couldn't be fit into the Gospels?

If you are interested in owning an English copy of A CHILD CALLED JESUS, kindly email me at jaeho-treble2668@mailblocks.com .

This book has helped me to express creativity I haven't felt since I was a kid. My friends and I --I am 42 and they are about the same are using the book as therapy.We are meeting 1 time every two weeks and doing the heart & hands projects. It is fun and inspiring. I plan to use the book with my nieces this summer when they visit. It is beautiful and life-changing even for big kids too!!

I am a school teacher and counselor. I have read just about everything out there-- looking for solutions for my students. This is the first book that combines truly inspired writing; a simple action process; and the amazing proof of photography worthy of awards. Just looking at the photos motivated me--seeing what was possible. Then, I began to read what it all meant. How the heart issues of the kids became tangible through the creative heart and hand projects. On any basis this is an inspiring book--I even found my own creative desires reemerge. However, the real value is in bringing an action process to the intentions that we all have. Intentions for character, growth, esteem, confidence, and learning.
This is a spiritual process for anyone: combining the best ideas regardless of religous tradition or culture. Kelee Katillac redefines "sacred" as a personal term that can only be stated by ones own creativity and self-styled beliefs. This book gives teachers, parents, and kids a process for making one's own sense of self. And that is what is sacred about the rooms they have created.

Kids' Sacred Places motivated me as a mother to help find ways to encourage my children to bring out their own creativity. I believe as Kelee does that being creative helps improve a child's self-esteem. This book has great ideas in helping make that special place in your childrens' home personal for them. My husband who is a teacher and coach, is very excited to use some of these "heart and hand" projects in his classroom and also with our two sons.

Beyond the amazing rooms beautifully illustrated in Kids' Sacred Places,is the importance of parents doing something with their children. This book shows us how parents can lead their children through simple creative steps, using children's own individual ideas. This process builds confidence. Once children develop their confidence... anything is possible! Kelee's work is proof that these creative actions will help children face their fears, insecurities and peer pressure.

Since my divorce, I don't have much time with my four boys. It is especially hard to talk with them when I have a week between visits. A friend's wife recommended this book. At first, I thought creativity and decorating wasn't for guys. Then, I started reading the inspiring stories of other families with heartache and issues like mine. They used creativity to communicate and get through it. The dads were involved with the heart and hands projects--that are like active therapy. I am not so good at talking but doing creative stuff helps us to break through the silence.

This has helped us a lot. Thank-you.

I've read dozens of WWII books and this is one of the best! There is nothing quite like reading about Great Americans' experiences in their own words. They answered the call, did their duty and risked their lives every day to protect their Country and our way of life. Now everyone can find out what it was like in graphic detail. This is the first book written by Brooks Mitchell that I have read and I look forward to reading his other works.

My father was the pilot in this book and he passed away prior to it's being published. I can only read a few pages at a time as the emotion of the events wells up very quickly. It is a wonderful look into one airplane crew from different individual perspectives as they faced each mission not knowing what they were to encounter. My father would be proud!! They were good Americans applies to the ones who gave their lives and the ones who made it to tell their stories. God Bless You

My Dad is 79. He was in the Army Air Corp and Air Force from 1944 to 1949. He now spends much of his day reading and, on occasion, still enjoys assemblng a WWII model airplane. He does not have the same eye for detail and the dexterity he once had, but the pleasure of his hobby remains. I gave my Dad Kipling's Error III as a gift. His emotional response and heartfelt appreciation was my gift. He enjoyed the sensitive writing style and personal diaries with a tear in his eye and a flood of memories. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Brooks Mitchell and Capt. Lloyd Mitchell for kindly and respectfully honoring and remembering our veterans. Thank you.

Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (3/06)

Brooks Mitchell, PhD, wrote this biography about his father, a B-17 navigator of Kipling's Error III, and his crew's 25 combat missions that took place over Europe during World War II. Mitchell gathered his information from diaries written by his father and four of his crewmen. He also used a taped interview with his father that his daughter created while she was doing a high school paper. There are also vintage photographs that bring the stories more vividly alive.

Through this story, Brooks achieves his goal of preserving the experiences of these crewmen during the time of war. The reader learns about the difficult times that these men experienced while they were stationed in Snetterton-Heath England. "Kipling's Error III" provides excellent insights into what these brave men had to sacrifice during their time of serving our country. Because the information was taken from some of the crewmen's personal diaries, the reader gets to see life as it really was during this time. Every aspect of the men's lives is covered.

This book provides so much more rich detail, than a traditional history book. When Captain Lloyd Mitchell wrote in his diary, "They were good Americans," he was referring to friends of his who were killed during a raid into the Third Reich. He had to help clean up their remains. By learning about the war from the experiences of these men, the reader is able to see the full range of emotions that they had to deal with while they were at war and then the personal issues they faced being so far away from their family and friends.

I highly recommend this book to World War II fans. Reading through the diary entries and seeing the photographs will really make you feel like you are present. Passing on this story also an important way to preserve this historical experience of American men who were truly, "good Americans."

Drawing from flight crew diaries and enhanced with vintage photographs, Kipling's Error III: They Were Good Americans is the story of the men who flew a B-17 Flying Fortress on twenty-five successful raids over enemy occupied Europe. Striking out from their base in Snetterton-heath, England, these were men who were put through every possible human emotion in a bloody and savage aerial war that included bravery, terror, duty, patriotism, love and hate. The author, Brooks Mitchell , is the eldest of three sons of Captain Lloyd Mitchell who served as the navigator of Kipling's Error II and has provided an invaluable contribution to the growing library of World War II aviation combat histories. Kipling's Error III is impressively informative, exceptionally well edited and written, very highly recommended reading for military buffs, and a core addition to academic and community library World War II Military Studies reference collections.

Bruce Milne's book is a welcomed book on doctrine in a time when doctrinal material is sorely lacking. It is well organized and easy to read. It can serve as an excellent reference book. It also serves well one who simply wishes to think about God and his nature using the Scripture in a way it was intended to be use.

Many books of theology are hard to read, and often do not entertain the possibility that anyone else's point of view could be correct.

I like Bruce Milne's book, because he writes in language that I can understand, and in discussing opposing points of view, while clearly expressing an evangelical interpretation of scripture, he allows for varying viewpoints within that compass. He even points out deficiencies in his own preferred view!

Milne's book fills a great need, because many people will not read the larger, more arcane works. [Including me!]

We used this book with a correspondence course in theology, in which I shared leadership, ad it was accessible for those who had thought through the issues before, and for those who never had.

Highly recommended

Milne has produced a fine introduction to Christian truth (i.e. theology) and I found this book very useful. I think Milne was wise to begin with, "The final authority in matters of faith," namely the Bible. Milne says that there are two sources of special revelation: The Incarnate Word (i.e. Jesus Christ Himself) and the Word (which is the Bible). Milne then examines what Jesus said about the Bible, what the Apostles said about it, inspiration, and the ideas of infallible vs. inerrant and so on.

I particularly liked his section on ecclesiology (the doctrine of the Church); it is a field that I have not studied much and it was good to get a biblical introduction to it. The section on the Person and Work of Jesus Christ was very good as well; Milne affirms the orthodox position that Christ is 100% man and 100% God. Milne also examines many of the historical heresies that were advanced against this (e.g. the Doetic heresy; that Jesus was God and merely appeared to be human or the Ebionite heresy; that Jesus was just a human being and was not God) and how they fail to agree with the Bible. Milne addresses the most sensationalized of doctrines "the last things," (i.e. eschatology; especially in the Book of Revelation); he outlines what we know for certain from the Bible and what is less clear. He also examines different perspectives on the Millennium.

To comment on the approach the Milne uses throughout the book, I would have to say that he is very balanced and sober. Often, he will briefly look at a few views on an issue and consider the biblical texts cited in support. Milne is also cautious; he is not dogmatic on issues where the Bible is not dogmatic. Also, throughout the book, there are end of section review questions (if you wanted to lead an intensive series of Bible studies, these questions could be used), all the various Scriptures cited (and arranged by topic e.g. Atonement in the Old Testament, Christ the prophet, Christ the priest and justification) are helpful as well. Milne also has mini-Bibliographies at the end of every section. My only possible criticism is that many of the works he cites in his Bibliography are old, likely out of print books (i.e. from 1960's or 1970's). There is also an Index at the end of the book, which gives the book a ready-reference function. However, I am reading the 1982 edition of the book (ISBN 0-87784-392-9), so that "problem" might have been addressed in this new 1999 edition.

I would very much recommend this book to all new Christians to get a firm footing in Christian doctrine. The book could also be described as the Bible doctrinally arranged; Want to know who God is? Want to know the nature of humanity? Want to know what the Church is supposed to be?

In our pragmatic, outcomes oriented age, the church has begun to lose its way. "Theology" and "Doctrine" are considered too theoretical and impractical for the needs of today.

Milne reminds us that at the source of all practice is belief. He also reminds us that any movement away from basic Christian belief is to court disaster. Those who deride theology need to re-examine their hearts and submit to God's view of the world, rather than our own.

This book is fairly simple in its layout, and is valuable as a reference book for basic Christian beliefs - you can easily turn to one section and consult it without having to have read the rest of the book. It does not go into unnecessary detail, and reflects a conservative, evangelical and reformed position.

Part one examines authority - how do we know what is true and how can know what God is saying to us? Part two looks at God - his characteristics and his works. Part three examines humankind - what our nature is and how sin has affected us. Part four examines Jesus - who he was and why he came to die on the cross. Part Five looks at the Holy Spirit - who he is and what his role is in the Christian life. Part Six examines the Church - its identity, function and life. Finally, part Seven looks at the future - the return of Jesus and eternal life.

If you are a serious Christian who loves the Lord with head and heart, this book is invaluable.

What a valuable service this little book provides! Milne has the rare ability to present complex ideas in concise yet fully accurate ways. There is no polemic for any position other than that which is unabashedly orthodox - and yet he covers some hotly contested ground (see the table of contents) with refreshing honesty.

This book is very heavily footnoted with scripture within each section of text, and each chapter is followed by references to least a dozen works by scholars who have more thoroughly expounded the varying viewpoints. I found myself reading with my Bible open in order to verify Milne's exposition and I never found a single instance of scripture twisting.

Milne has opinions, but these are never shoved down the reader's throat, nor presented in such a way as to belittle other views within orthodox faith. Rather, Milne gives the scriptural support for each position AND also the scripture and interpretation which might mitigate against that position - even his own. Should the reader desire more information, the scripture in each section and the reference works at the end of the chapters provide a very good start.

Each chapter is also followed by discussion questions enabling the book to be used easily in a class discussion.

Milne also handles the cult and unorthodox position very well. He does not ridicule, but condemns frankly from scripture.

I'm a recently retired Army Colonel. Believe it or not, the best book I've ever read on leadership was written by a Navy Admiral...hard to believe but true! I dogeared and highlighted the heck out of this book. I recommend it to anyone who's looking to read a good leadership book. Oliver masterfully describes the traits of essential leadership by applying his navy lessons learned in life as a submariner. And they're all lessons we can learn in the business world. Buy this book, you won't be disappointed!

The author has managed to take his experiences in the Navy and derive the leadership that each step required. There are tough decisions and development of insight. Also important is his dealings with adverse subordinates and other topics that seem easier to ignore.

A pleasure to read, give it to any person entering the military, or getting ready to grow up.

I agree with the other reviewers. This is one of the best leadership books I have seen (alongside Dandridge Malone's "Small Unit Leadership"). Insightful and very well written, you will return to it again and again. I am just now ordering my second copy!

I am a former submariner as is Dave Oliver and I read the book only because I was shortly going to interview him for a book project of my own, and I felt obliged to read his book first so as not to be embarrased.
I love this book on two levels. First for anyone interested in submarines, he will learn a whole lot about subs in this book. Secondly, his poor leadership anecdotes really struck me here. Often, that is the best teacher.

I have read a dozen or more books on leadership and attended five courses on the subject (best course: Marine Corps NCO Leadership School). I learned more from this short, simple and direct guide than all the others combined.

Do not be misled by the military orientation of this book. Aside from the fact that a life in the Navy presents more physical dangers than your average CPA firm, the lessons are readily transferable to civilian life (I did not spend a career in the military).

I read this book a month ago and three circumstances corresponding to the book have presented themselves.

I wish I could have read this book when I was 20. I would have been a better manager, a better leader and a better person

Lessons I learned in the light, great book, as good as lessons I learned in the dark, Jennifer uses words to paint pictures you can only see with your heart.

This book is truly a blessed gift. One to keep forever and reread over and over again for inspiration and comfort. As Jennifer Rothschild tendering shares her life we learn the truth about our own. Though everyday experiences we begin to clearly see the purpose of life here and look forward to the the life everafter. This book radiates HOPE and the knowledge that we are secure in God's GRACE! A beautiful gift and a special keepsake.

This book really spoke to me each day when I would read a chapter as part of my quiet time. I passed the book to my co-author, Kim Webb, and she adored the book as well! I highly recommend to all and I just ordered her newest book.

Jennifer has done it again.
Lessons I Learned in the Dark was such an inspiration to me that I couldn't imagine being more blessed by Lessons I Learned in the Light but I was.
GOD is using this wonderful woman to give hope and inspiration to so many.

Lessons I Learned in the Light
By Jennifer Rothschild
Publisher: Multnomah
601 N Larch St
Sisters, OR 97759
[...]

Jennifer Rothschild is such an inspiration to many people, and I am one of those people. She is an author, musician, and in full time ministry. In this book she shares lessons that she learned, that we can also learn and benefit from. The amazing thing about the title is that she is blind, so the only light that she sees is God's light.

In starting out she uses God's word to show that he truly is the light. 1John 1:5 says that "God is Light" and Psalms 119:105 "lamp unto my feet, and a light to my path". God truly is light and she shows this in the twelve chapters of her book.

We need to cling to God's word, for it is our Sword of Honor. Scripture tells the story of Eleazar, and how he clung to his sword in the battle, and when it was over he could not let it go (2 Samuel 23:9-10). The Bible is something that we can hold on to today and use it in our battle field. To do this we need to spend time every day in it. When we don't it is an issue of pride. It is like we are telling God that we don't need him. We all have many excuses, but none of them are good enough. We are to cling to the word and use it and to do that we must know it; and to know it we must be read it and study it everyday.

Sometimes we are reluctant. The author says "Most of us feel a tinge of reluctance when it comes to change, because it means we must take a risk and release some of our control." What we need to do is release and trust Jesus. "It is no risk to trust the One who is totally trustworthy." Isaiah 26:4. You may not have the confidence to face the change, but God can give us courage. Confidence is a feeling, and courage is an action. There are three gifts of courage: Power, Love, and Self-Discipline.

Walking by faith and not having any baggage is another way that the author teaches you how to live. There are two tools to get rid of sin: The law (Romans 3:20 and 5:13), and Repentance (John 1:9). God gives us his grace so that we can live with him. His grace is offered because he is good. We are also required to be meek, and that means to "...recognize our own personal power and willingly submit to the authority of another." Meekness is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22).

Next she shows us how the Bible tells us to pray without ceasing, or in her words "pray like crazy". So even if you do not believe that you can pray, pray anyway. Pray like you would like to be able to pray. It doesn't have to be showy or flashy, God knows what you are trying to express and say. "Just do it." (Nike).

God's word is alive and it gives us hope, cling to this hope. One way to do this is don't be self-conscious, be God-conscious. See yourself in the mirror that is God's word. Words of warning though, you maybe the only God that anyone ever sees, so you need to know him so you can reflect him. Beware though of three places that you might get caught up and those are: pride, performance, and problems. Let God shine through you it is about God not you.

Lastly Mrs. Rothschild reminds us that we are to live like aliens here on earth. This is not our home; it is a staging area, preparing us form home. Heaven is our ultimate home and we need to keep our eyes on that.

This book is an enlightening experience. The author has some new ideas on things that I had never thought of, and it was nice to see things from a different point of view. I am going to take what I learned, and apply it to the many other lessons that God is teaching me every day.

Author Steven Maines, follows the tale of Gauis Cassius Longinus, the Roman Centurion who pierced the side Jesus with his spear while the condemned one hung from the cross. [..]

After that fateful day, Longinus escapes Rome and the priests who want to take the spear and its supposed power for themselves. LONGINUS follows the Centurion's life from his love for the prostitute Irena to his mystical studies with the Druids of Gaul. But it also reveals Longinus' profound spiritual awakening through his Druidic studies and the spear that speaks to him with the voice of Christ.

I really enjoyed this book. Steven Maines as he shares the story of the Roman Centurion, Gauis Cassius Longinus, who pierced the side of Christ while Jesus hung from the cross, as in the tale of one man's journey to awakening


Purple Haze Press [...] author Steven Maines has studied religion and spirituality most of his life. LONGINUS is the first novel in a trilogy.

I greatly enjoyed this fantasy about the man Longinus and his mystical spear. It's an entertaining tale with an interesting plot, a real page turner for the most part. There was one section that stalled out a little for me, but other than that it was enthralling.

The spiritual insights are well developed and fit seamlessly into the story. These insights do not follow traditional Christian beliefs. The ancient religion of the druids is explored, as is the concept of reincarnation.

There is a bit of graphic violence and gruesome carnage in the book. I believe the descriptions to be historically acurate, but they are not for the faint of heart.

I'm looking forward to books II and III!

Entertainment: 4.5 stars
Enlightenment: 5 stars

I found Longinus to be a fascinating read. As long as one understands this is not a factual book you can enjoy it for what it is. Steven Maines gives an insightful look into the life of the Roman soldier after Longinus, killed Christ on the cross. The sword had a life of its own afterwards and if one looks at history there is some truth to this.
I truly enjoyed reading the book and highly recommend it as a different outlook and perspective to a part of history. I found I had trouble putting the book down once I started it.

This is a book I've had around for awhile, but was waiting for some extended reading time before I dug in. The vacation cruise provided the perfect opportunity, and so I started Longinus: Book I Of The Merlin Factor by Steven Maines. While I definitely don't agree with the theology espoused in the novel, the writing and story-line was well done.

Longinus was a Roman Centurion at the time of Christ's cruxifiction. He was the one who used his spear to stab Jesus in the side to ensure his death. But that act forever changed his life, as the blood of Christ transformed the spear into a mystical weapon sought by both governmental and spiritual leaders. The story traces Longinus as he becomes a fugitive from Rome, hooks up with Celtic Druids, and becomes a master of truth as he learns to listen to the voice and teachings of mystics and teachers that guide him in his newfound spiritual quest.

From a religious perspective, this couldn't be further away from what I believe. It's a mix of Gnostic teachings and Druid magic, and reduces the figure of Christ to just another wise teacher among many. But I wasn't reading it from that angle (i.e., what truths can I apply to my own life). As a story that captures the color and flavor of the Roman empire in the first century, it works well. I felt immersed in the culture, and the characters seemed to ring true to the time period. In addition, the struggle of Longinus to change his world view based on his new reality was compelling. I found myself caring about all the major players in the story, and there was no problem in keeping me engaged in the story, theology issues notwithstanding...

Those looking for alternative spiritual truths will likely get far more out of the book than I did. But even if that's not your main reason for reading, the story of Longinus should do a good job of keeping you entertained.

Mapper Of Mountains: M.P. Bridgland In The Canadian Rockies 1902-1930 is the true story of dominion land surveyor Morrison Parsons Bridgland, who climbed many of Canada's Rocky Mountains for the first time and perfected photographic techniques to compile a series of mountaintop photographs and create accurate topographical maps. In 1915 he applied his top-rate skills to Jasper Park, creating a legacy of research and exacting quality for future generations to build upon. Mapper Of Mountains is the true testimony of one man's lifetime dedication to, and passion for, precisely recording the lay of high and sometimes deadly peaks. Illustrated with black-and-white maps and photographs throughout, Mapper Of Mountains is as much a tribute to geographic history as it is to Bridgland's acute vision and drive.

Mapper Of Mountains: M.P. Bridgland In The Canadian Rockies 1902-1930 is the true story of dominion land surveyor Morrison Parsons Bridgland, who climbed many of Canada's Rocky Mountains for the first time and perfected photographic techniques to compile a series of mountaintop photographs and create accurate topographical maps. In 1915 he applied his top-rate skills to Jasper Park, creating a legacy of research and exacting quality for future generations to build upon. Mapper Of Mountains is the true testimony of one man's lifetime dedication to, and passion for, precisely recording the lay of high and sometimes deadly peaks. Illustrated with black-and-white maps and photographs throughout, Mapper Of Mountains is as much a tribute to geographic history as it is to Bridgland's acute vision and drive.

Mapper Of Mountains: M.P. Bridgland In The Canadian Rockies 1902-1930 is the true story of dominion land surveyor Morrison Parsons Bridgland, who climbed many of Canada's Rocky Mountains for the first time and perfected photographic techniques to compile a series of mountaintop photographs and create accurate topographical maps. In 1915 he applied his top-rate skills to Jasper Park, creating a legacy of research and exacting quality for future generations to build upon. Mapper Of Mountains is the true testimony of one man's lifetime dedication to, and passion for, precisely recording the lay of high and sometimes deadly peaks. Illustrated with black-and-white maps and photographs throughout, Mapper Of Mountains is as much a tribute to geographic history as it is to Bridgland's acute vision and drive.

Mapper Of Mountains: M.P. Bridgland In The Canadian Rockies 1902-1930 is the true story of dominion land surveyor Morrison Parsons Bridgland, who climbed many of Canada's Rocky Mountains for the first time and perfected photographic techniques to compile a series of mountaintop photographs and create accurate topographical maps. In 1915 he applied his top-rate skills to Jasper Park, creating a legacy of research and exacting quality for future generations to build upon. Mapper Of Mountains is the true testimony of one man's lifetime dedication to, and passion for, precisely recording the lay of high and sometimes deadly peaks. Illustrated with black-and-white maps and photographs throughout, Mapper Of Mountains is as much a tribute to geographic history as it is to Bridgland's acute vision and drive.

Mapper Of Mountains: M.P. Bridgland In The Canadian Rockies 1902-1930 is the true story of dominion land surveyor Morrison Parsons Bridgland, who climbed many of Canada's Rocky Mountains for the first time and perfected photographic techniques to compile a series of mountaintop photographs and create accurate topographical maps. In 1915 he applied his top-rate skills to Jasper Park, creating a legacy of research and exacting quality for future generations to build upon. Mapper Of Mountains is the true testimony of one man's lifetime dedication to, and passion for, precisely recording the lay of high and sometimes deadly peaks. Illustrated with black-and-white maps and photographs throughout, Mapper Of Mountains is as much a tribute to geographic history as it is to Bridgland's acute vision and drive.

Melody had me from page one. Her story--her losses, moved me to tears. I also cried from joy as she cared and ministered to her loved ones. This book should be in every Christian's library. This book encourages and teaches people how to step out in faith and take a risk. I related to Melody's fear and applaud her courage to do what she was asked to do. I know if I have the opportunity to be an instrument to bring someone dying to Jesus, I'm better prepared for reading this book.

Death isn't exactly something we enjoy talking about, and we tend to put off the discussion until circumstances force us to face its reality. All too often, by then it's too late, or very nearly so. That's why, as soon as a loved one has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, we need to get the conversation started --- and that's when a book like Melody Rossi's MAY I WALK YOU HOME? becomes an indispensable and invaluable resource.

Divided into four sections that parallel the journey from the initial diagnosis to the grief that lives on long after the patient has died, the book wastes little time and few words. Rossi chooses to plunge right in and offer immediate support and guidance to those who are reeling from the impending loss of a loved one. And she's wise in doing so. When a loved one --- or anyone in your sphere of influence --- is dying, you need help, and you need it now. Rossi packs a great deal of information and encouragement into this well-organized, 100-page volume. Caregivers should have no problem finding the help they need at the moment they need it.

The first section describes Rossi's experiences with the deaths of her parents, her stepmother and a close friend, all within a short time span, and how life came to be defined in two segments: before and after each diagnosis. That, she says, is to be expected, and trying to live from any other perspective is a form of denial. But she believes the post-diagnosis segment also can be a time of tremendous spiritual opportunity, a time when the dying --- even those who had been hostile toward faith --- are frequently open to God's activity in their lives. They experience that activity in any number of ways, with one of the most effective ways being our willingness to serve them and try to meet their very real needs.

Part two offers the tools you'll need to care for your loved one (and yourself), and here Rossi makes the journey metaphor a tangible one by describing the equipment you'll need: a roadmap to help you keep the destination in mind, proper shoes for the rugged path you'll be walking, access to GPS (God's Positioning System) for course corrections along the way, emergency information (in a chapter that includes one of the best suggestions I've seen for organizing vital data) and "traveler's assistance," guidance on creating a support team that can include friends and family, Internet groups, local chapters of disease-specific organizations such as the American Cancer Society, and --- the one nearest to my heart --- nonprofit hospice services. Like Rossi, as a hospice volunteer, the only regret I've heard caregivers utter with regard to hospice is that they didn't avail themselves of the service sooner.

The third section includes an important chapter on spiritual warfare, something too often overlooked in other books on death and dying. Those who are dying sometimes undergo such extreme personality changes that they send their caregivers packing; a normally docile patient can become hateful and belligerent, using language that would have made them blush only months earlier. (Whether or not this is a spiritual problem, if spiritual warfare is what it takes to get you through it, then I say go for it.) Chapters in this section also cover endurance, with a critically important reminder that caregiving is a choice; a look at God's covenants and how they apply to care for the dying; and the main points to consider when making funeral arrangements.

Part four covers the death itself and the grief that follows. Two of the most important topics in the book appear here: one, the spiritual topic of forgiveness, and the second, the physical signs of imminent death. The first is vital, because any lingering unforgiveness between you and your loved one robs both of you of the peace that the patient needs now and that you will need for the rest of your life. The second will help you not only to prepare for the patient's death but also to make sense of the sometimes puzzling behavior of one who is dying.

It's unlikely that you'll pick up this book and read it unless someone near to you is terminally ill. But you may want to make note of the title --- because someday, you may be in the position of caring for someone who is dying, and when that day comes, you may find that MAY I WALK YOU HOME? has become your constant companion. For those now caring for the dying, it's well worth reading --- even if death is imminent.

--- Reviewed by Marcia Ford

melody writes with such simplicity and grace. this book gives you the practical information surrounding the dying process that nobody talks about! it also gives you the emotional support and guidance that you need as you journey through a very painful and uncertain time. the are no road maps that help you traverse through the dying process. there are alot of books that teach about the birthing process but there are not alot of books that tell us how to walk through the dying process with someone and navigate our way through our own emotions surrounding the death. this book is that road map! you will find much needed information and support in the pages of this beautiful book.

Melody does a magnificent job of sharing the intimacy one can enjoy by being a "God appointed" caregiver.
Her stories gave me shivers, and her willingness to always be there for the dying gave me inspiration.
While this book shares specifically what joy can be yours as you lead a dying person to the Savior, the book also provides much needed information on how to approach the topic of death and how to help the dying give you the information you need.
This book deserves 5 stars.

Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views (6/07)

"May I Walk You Home?," by Melody Rossi, is a message written from firsthand experience. Ms. Rossi experienced the loss of her mother, her stepmother and father within a twenty-eight month span. God used Ms. Rossi and their fatal illnesses to guide all three in giving their hearts to Christ. Losing someone you love always hurts, but the pain is eased when you know he or she found peace with the Lord.

Ms. Rossi was given the opportunity to serve Christ and to serve her loved ones as they went through the dying process. She took them to "doctor appointments, ran errands, and made meals. She also showed them the love of Jesus Christ through her actions, prayer, and words." "Because Jesus came to the world as a servant, it makes total sense that He would use this technique as a powerful way to reach the lost."

This book is divided into four sections; each area is divided into chapters. The first section discusses the call to serve. We never know how God will use us or when. He uses the least likely. The second section is directions to lead you in your service. Having a loved one approach death will drain you spiritually, emotionally, and physically. The third section stresses that once you have begun this journey there is no turning back. You should think very seriously before you begin, for it will make demands on you. The last section discusses the "Journey's End." Ms. Rossi shares the physical, the spiritual and emotional changes that take place when death in imminent. There is a need to mend fences; there is an emotional acceptance and a physical letting go.

"May I Walk You Home?," by Melody Rossi, is simply written and easy to understand. Death is a topic most people avoid. However, Ms. Rossi offers practical guidance wrought through her own experiences. The cover is beautifully done with a leaf-strewn path. I learned much from this book and I am glad I read it. It is rewarding to know that Ms. Rossi used the knowledge she gained from the death of several loved ones to serve the Lord and assist others. I highly recommend this book to those working with Hospice, hospitals, nursing homes and those who know someone facing a terminal illness.