DESPICABLE ME The Junior Novel Read by Tim Curry Little, Brown HachetteAudio Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Gru wants to be the biggest, baddest villain around. But when he “adopts”
three orphans to sell very special “cookies” so he can appropriate a weapon, he discovers maybe there is more
to life than just being the baddest villain on the planet.
A story with “fun” bad guys and where nothing is impossible.
It is a story of how three innocent little girls force a “bad guy” to change his ways—just by being themselves.
How often do we substitute doing for being? How often do we keep ourselves
from enjoying life and all God has for us because we're afraid, we feel guilt when we let down our guard or enjoy ourselves,
or we somehow feel we must “earn” our own and God's grace?
In this audiobook EAT THE COOKIE BUY THE SHOES, Meyer show each of us
how to enjoy life and gives us permission to celebrate life's journey. When we go through life with a frown, with complaints
and without joy, Satan wins. God is a God of joy and celebration. (Take a look at all the festivals He instituted for the
His, the Jewish, people, festivals of worship, praise, food and fellowship.)
Meyer shows us how God desires times of relaxation and refreshment. Even
Jesus took time to relax and refresh. If He needed to, how much more do we?
We don't need to live in guilt. What we need to do is to give Jesus our
all, let Him set the tone of joy and celebration in our lives. As Joyce Meyer points out in EAT THE COOKIE BUY THE SHOES,
times of celebration strengthen and build us up and gives us hope for tomorrow.
Conviction? Joyce Meyer in her latest book EAT THE COOKIE BUY THE SHOES
has a whole different spin on conviction. Instead of letting conviction drown us in guilt, we should rejoice, that's right,
rejoice. Why? Because conviction means we are still close enough to Jesus to feel the conviction that leads to growth in our
walk of faith.
As Meyer points out, We are to do our best, then rest and let God to
His part. After all, attitude plays a big part in how we approach life. Why not cultivate an attitude of gratitude and celebration
of who we are in Christ? Celebrate all God's blessings. Celebration instead of worry and guilt is our choice. Will we choose
to trust God and rejoice?
Sure, we need to discipline our lives. Sure we need to watch what we
eat and to exercise appropriately. But not to the point we lose perspective of the joys of life. It is OK, at times, to EAT
THE COOKIE BUY THE SHOES.
Joyce Meyer gives us permission to celebrate life.
Faith element: high
THE LANGUAGE GOD TALKS On Science and Religion by Herman Wouk ISBN
978-1-60788-181-0 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Too many try to divide science and faith. Herman Wouk, author of THE
WINDS OF WAR, WAR AND REMEMBRANCE, THIS IS MY GOD and other books, talks about his life, his background and his writing and
the influences that have given him foundation, a foundation in his Jewish faith. While not taking away from those who believe
differently, Wouk not only does not apologize for his faith, through reason and experience, he shows its viability.
While scientists and others seek to divorce science and faith, Wouk clarifies
that they are not separate and that science has always had scientists with deep spiritual roots. On his own journey, Wouk
has studied and discussed science and faith with eminent scientists, many who totally disregard faith.
An investigation into science and faith that is a much needed pursuit
today.
GOD NEVER BLINKS 50 Lessons for Life's Little Detours By Regina
Brett ISBN 978-1-60788-168-1 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The author lists her fifty lessons of life from her own experiences with
humor and, sometimes, uncomfortable truth. But what she conveys is a life lived on practical faith and with a willingness
to learn and grow.
As she says, “Life is messy.” She also shows us that life
is good, and while things we go through can be overwhelming (in her case—an abusive childhood, divorce, and cancer),
all we need do is focus on taking the next right step. Through her own less-than-perfect life, she shows how we can live life
to the fullest by accepting God's grace and forgiveness and extending it to others.
We do need to release and deal with our hurts and feelings and not simply
bottle them up. God is big enough to take our questions and doubts. In fact, she tells us that we need to make peace with
our past so we don't “screw up the present.”
Brett has learned to savor the ride, to yield graciously and to dwell
on the positive. Why? Because our thoughts and attitudes determine our path.
What does Brett share? Everything is a miracle, but we need to find the
miracle in the mess of our lives, for life is messy. Life is also a gift and life is all about God's grace, not my works.
God is love and we need to live life to it's fullest and love completely. We need to stop being afraid of failure, get messy
and join the party of life.
Practical, interesting, challenging and freeing.
Well worth the time.
Faith element: medium
THE CONCISE KING Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Edited by Clayborne
Carson, Peter Holloran, Kris Shepard ISBN978-1-60024-874-0 Hachette Audio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
My generation knew Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We heard snippets, if
not much more, of his talks and speeches. We saw the results of his actions and commitment on TV. While I didn't always agree
with King, neither I nor anyone else can say he didn't make a difference, a positive difference, to America and the world.
He did so with a basis in Christian love and Ghandi's belief in non-violence.
King emerged at a time it was easier than ever before to record moments
in history. King's oratory was both stirring and soaring. THE CONCISE KING draws together some of his addresses such as Loving
Your Enemies, I Have a Dream, The Three Dimensions of a Complete Life and many more. Different friends and colleagues from
those days of struggle introduce his speeches and give them context. A PDF of photos is also included.
Looking for an introduction to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Pick up the
two disc set THE CONCISE KING.
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. ON LEADERSHIP By Donald T Phillips ISBN
978-1-60024-801-6 Hachette Audio Grand Central Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Most of us have some knowledge of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and
legacy. But there was more to his story than history. He succeeded because he was a leader.
This audiobook lays out the principles that helped Martin Luther King,
Jr. make his mark on history and can help others, using his principles, make his/her own mark.
THE LOVE REVOLUTION By Joyce Meyer Read by Sandra McCollom ISBN
978-1-60024-735-4 (Unabridged 7 CDs) HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Though the print book was reviewed last month, listening to a book is
a whole different experience, and, in this case, a different reviewer—me. When I listen to an audiobook, I keep paper
and pen handy to take notes so I won't forget the points that inform, challenge and encourage.
SECULAR SABOTAGE How liberals are destroying religion and culture
in America By Bill Donohue Book: ISBN 978-0-446-54721-5 FaithWords
Unabridged audiobook 7 CDs Read by Bill Donogue ISBN 978-1-60024-937-2
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I know too many liberal leaders are doing whatever they can, with whatever
tactics they can to change our democratic republic into a socialist state. I didn't realize until I read SECULAR SABOTAGE
how many are going far beyond such a freedom-destroying system to one that attacks everything that is moral and good because
destruction is their system—and their goal. These are nihilists and they are doing their best to make evil sound good
and righteousness, evil. They destroy what they do not like or cannot change.
Worse, within all major Christian faiths both protestant and Catholic,
are those who stay not because they hold to the traditional values and beliefs Catholics and protestants hold dear about Jesus
being the Son of God who came to save humankind, about faith and family and Scripture, but because they seek to destroy faith
from within.
Donohue chronicles what has been going in seminaries, in churches, in
the media, in governments and, of course, in Hollywood. The picture is horrifying and grim. But he doesn't leave us in despair.
SECULAR SABOTAGE is a wake up call that if we want to pass on our faith and values to another generation, we need to stand
up and be counted NOW. We can do it. After all, we're the ones who know almighty God.
Both the print and audiobook versions are excellent.
However, the audiobook version has an interview with the author, giving
more details, sharing what has happened since the print book was released and giving some interesting background on Donohue
and the Catholic League.
Recommended reading.
THE LAST SONG By Nicholas Sparks ISBN 978-1-60024-640-1 (Unabridged
11 CDs) ISBN 978-1-60024-638-8 (Abridged 6 CDs) HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Ronnie had no intention of ever speaking to her father Steve again. He'd
left his wife (her mother), daughter (her) and son (her younger brother) for, as she saw it, his music--and who knows
what other reasons. She refused to continue with her own career in music because of him. But when she and her younger brother
are forced to spend the summer with their dad in a small beach town in North Carolina, Ronnie is forced to come to terms with
their relationship as well as her perspective on life, truth, love, sacrifice and faith.
This coming-of-age novel is much more intricate than the angst of a seventeen
going-on-eighteen year old girl. THE LAST SONG delves into the lives of the main characters with their hopes and struggles
and draws us into the heart of Steve's quiet, searching faith.
The story does contain some minor language problems. However, the over-all
story, while complex, is one of learning to accept and live life to the fullest and with joy.
THE LIAR IN YOUR LIFE The Way to Truthful Relationships By Robert
Feldman Audiobook read by Bob Walter ISBN 978-1-60026-653-1 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
ANY MINUTE By Joyce Meyer & Deborah Bedford ISBN 978-1-60024-630-2 HachetteAudio Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Sarah was an aggressive, take-no-prisoners, trader on Wall Street who
made time or allowances for no one, including her husband and kids. What she never revealed, hardly even to herself, was her
reason for her dive and her inability to let others “see” the real Sarah.
But when her husband gives her an ultimatum and an accident provides
insight, Sarah has one last chance to make things right. But does she have the courage to let go, forgive and be real with
God and those around her?
An intriguing story of mixed-up motives, responsibility, parenting, love
and the lengths God will go to in order to call us to Him.
And a bonus for Cubs fans.
HOW SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE THINK By John C Maxwell ISBN 978-1-60024-609-8 HachetteAudio Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Successful people think in certain ways that differ from those who are
not successful in life and work. How, then, do successful people think? They see the big picture, dream big, and plan strategically,
set goals and direct their efforts toward that end goal. Successful people think outside the box in creative ways and surround
themselves with creative people from whom they seek ideas, listening to the points of view of others and implementing whatever
ideas work without regard from whom the idea originated. Successful people realize they don't know everything and while seeking
to find creative expression and solutions, also live in reality and seek truth—even truths hard to hear. They are more
interested in doing what is best, than what is popular.
Successful people focus on strengths, ask questions and don't let negative
thinking detract them. Most of all, successful people make time to think, ponder, consider, something few of us do in this
crazy, over-scheduled society.
Success has more definitions than simply monetary and each of us can
learn to be more successful by directing our thoughts in a more positive direction. Interesting, common sense audiobook that
shares thinking skills each of us can acquire.
LAW OF CONNECTION By Michael J Losier ISBN 978-1-60024-606-7 HachetteAudio Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Losier's focus is communication and how to maximize communication between
persons with differing communication styles. I began learning about these differences when our son was in middle school and
having trouble. It was then we discovered he is a kinesthetic learner. My daughter, we discovered, is auditory. My husband
and I are visual. And we wonder why we sometimes have problems communicating?
This audiobook explains the different communication styles: kinesthetic,
auditory, visual and digital and shows how we often miss the mark in communication when we don't understand the communication
style of the other person. Quite literally, we don't “hear” one another. While we may be speaking, communication
is blocked by assuming the other person communicates and understands the same way we do. Not so.
What we need to do to make a communication connection is to understand
other styles and the words and phrases that reveal each style and seek to communicate in a way the other person actually “gets
it.”
This audiobook not only explains and tells us what to do, but also offers
practical examples of what to do and what not to do in a given situation. Possible life scenarios help the listener
“see” how to communicate in a style the other person will “hear.”
Too often relationships, friendships and business situations fail because
of one fundamental problem—communication. The LAW OF CONNECTION
helps us learn to truly communicate. This audiobook is even more valuable because it includes PDF files of graphs and charts
Who is this audiobook for? Anyone who wishes to communicate more effectively
to family, friends, co-workers, bosses/employees, and others in group situations. A valuable tool in our communications arsenal.
RIGHT ON THE MONEY Financial Advice for Tough Times By Pat Robertson ISBN
978-1-60024-688-3 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In this CD series Robertson does not draw the listener into the “Name
it and Claim it” philosophy. The series is also not the Dave
Ramsey nuts and bolts financial advice. Robertson digs deeper into stocks and bonds, credit cards—when and how to use
and when not, information on how credit scores are compiled and how to raise yours. He explains life insurance -what
it is, does and its importance.
He is a firm believer that both husband and wife need to understand family
finances and share in both paying bills, saving and sharing if both work outside the home. He is one of the few who make the
case that homeownership may not be for everyone and the costs of owning must be weighed against the costs of renting. Both
are viable at different times and for different people.
His advice is common sense, but goes beyond what I've heard before. There is too much information on this 3 disc series to share here, but the information
is valuable and on target.
He isn't about grabbing the good life simply by bribing God, but by working
hard, dealing with reality and realizing God's plans are not always our plans. It is also recognizing that whatever happens
we can trust Him.
If you like Ramsey, this series will only enhance your knowledge of debt,
wealth and how to get out of the first and head toward the second. Another good resource for traversing the tricky economic
situation we find ourselves in today.
THE RICHEST MAN IN TOWN The Twelve Commandments of Wealth By W
Randall Jones ISBN 978-1-60024-579-4 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
What's the inside scoop on America's self-made millionaires?
THE RICHEST MAN IN TOWN (RMITs) gives us the secrets that have brought
wealth beyond what most of us can imagine to any number of American citizens. They did not win or inherit their wealth. They
made it the old fashioned way—by earning it. In fact, that makes the difference say these RMITs on the happiness derived
from their wealth. They've earned it. But there is a lot more to these RMITs.
They are wealthy and stay that way because they believe in personal responsibility,
integrity in business practices, place a high value on friends, family, mentors and treating employees and customers right.
They don't pursue money for the sake of money, aren't afraid to risk and fail, and use their wealth to help others.
Faith also plays a part for many RMITs. While we might never achieve
their status, what they stand for makes a solid foundation for anything we seek to achieve.
Want to know what makes these RMITs successful in both business
and life? They seek to make a difference. That's something we all can do.
Very interesting and enlightening.
THE GOLD STANDARD Building a World Class Team By Mike Krzyzewski
with Jamie K Spatola ISBN 978-1-60024-677-7 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
After the Olympic Basketball Dream Team brought home the gold in 1992,
it seemed American basketball teams could do no wrong. But the sport went international and took along with it American dominance.
Was it possible to recapture not only the Olympic Gold but also the American reputation? And could highly paid professional
basketball players put aside their egos and play as a team? Would these professionals listen to college a coach?
The answer is yes. In this audiobook coach Mike Krzyewski shares not
only how the world-class team was built, and giving play by plays of the victories and defeats of the team and it's players,
but also what it takes to build a winning team. Mike shares insights into his relationships with Kobe, Carmelo, LaBron and
the rest of Team USA and what made them champions, not just as individuals, but also as a team.
Some of his insights into team building include working toward a cause
greater than yourself and putting in the time and commitment needed. The team needs to be on the same page and this is accomplished
through face-to-face communication. A team needs to trust and respect one another and be both flexible and unselfish. A team
needs to realize family and friends are the other half of the team and to include them. A team needs to agree on shared standards
and meeting those standards and not just having the coach or other authority impose rules from “above,” expecting
compliance. A coach needs to share the load of authority.
There is much more to be gleaned from this audiobook that not only reminds
us of the greatness of America, but also of what we can accomplish when we work together.
LOSING MUM AND PUP By Christopher Buckley ISBN 978-1-60024-683-8 Hachette
Audio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In this audiobook LOSING MUM AND PUP about his parents and his reactions
to losing both within the same year, Christopher Buckley runs the gamut from dutiful to rebellious son. How can one be anything
else with such luminaries as William F Buckley and Patricia Taylor Buckley for parents, parents often so wrapped up in their
own lives there was little time to guide a precocious son? Yet looking back, he has gained understanding about who they are
as people as well as parents.
Buckley loves language and uses it with a deftness that should make his
father proud.
This memoir provides insight into Buckley's parents as parents and as
individuals with all the successes and failures of any parents. Of course, his parents were very definitely larger than life--an
elegant mother socialite and a father considered the founder of the conservative movement.
But Buckley also shows us a father who, from his actions, considered
himself above the laws of mortal man, while yet being a man of intellect, taste, and a loyal friend. Unlike many memoirs,
Buckley never descends into maudlin sentimentality, and writes with truth, from his perspective, and with a wry sense of humor
about his well-known parents.
This unvarnished look includes foibles as well as a solid, if complicated,
marriage relationship and gives us deeper understanding of two people many only knew through media buzz.
Warning: There is rough language in this audiobook.
THE AGE OF THE UNTHINKABLE Why the new world disorder constantly surprises
us and what we can do about it By Joshua Cooper Ramo ISBN 978-1-60024-720-0 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Drawing from numerous disciplines, Ramo draws the listener to the conclusion
that too much of the time, individuals, organizations and governments focus so narrowly and get so enmeshed in ever increasingly
complicated organization and structure, they become unable to deal with change or come up with solutions that fit the problem.
Instead, mired in past ways of doing things and a cumbersome structure, response becomes re-active rather than pro-active.
In a world of change, the author proposes that we need to be able to
act quickly and efficiently, which bureaucratic structures don't allow. He talks about simplicity and innovation and allowing
individuals and organizations the freedom to adapt quickly and use creativity to solve problems—before they get totally
out of hand. Individuals, he says, can make a difference.
Life is unpredictable, but with the right attitude of innovation and
creativity, we can meet the changes that seem to come more rapidly with each year.
Though not an easy listen, this audiobook is an interesting and thought
provoking book.
Faith element: N/A
MR POPPER'S PENGUINS By Richard & Florence Atwater ISBN 978-1-60024-675-3 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R
Scheidies
Mr. Popper is a small town painter with a loving wife and two children,
but he longs to do more. He longs to be an arctic explorer and reads everything written by his hero Admiral Drake. Mr. Popper
has read and studied all about the arctic and the Penguins that inhabit the place.
He so admires Drake that he writes him a letter. What he doesn't expect
is to be sent a Penguin in return. So begins a scramble to make the Penguin feel at home. Only Penguins are expensive and
get lonely. What's Mr. Popper going to do?
MR POPPER'S PENGUINS takes the listener on an amusing, if hectic journey
that leads to a decision--fame or what is best for the Penguins. Will Mr. Popper ever achieve his dearest dream? An audiobook
the whole family can enjoy together.
PRICELESS MEMORIES By Bob Barker with Digby Diehl ISBN 978-1-60024-553-4 HachetteAudio Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Having watched "The Price is Right" on and off for too many years to
count, and "Truth or Consequences" before that, I was very interested in listening to Barkers autobiographical book.
Here is a man who survived because he is a man of not just initiative
and ambition, but also a man of integrity and honor--and gratitude. Barker is a man who values others, a man of his word who
sees the best in others. And he genuinely likes and respects others from co-workers to contestants.
His story is not death defying, but a simple story of taking risks in
his field while keeping his integrity. It is a love story between he and the wife he lost too soon.
The draw back is the amount of time he spends on his pet passion--animal
rights. I don't disagree all that much with his position, but I didn't need to be hit over the head with it over and over
and over again. (Some of this could be skipped in the print version of this book.)
But no book is perfect and Barker is certainly not afraid of standing
up for what he believes--something more us us need to do.
If you like Bob Barker, you'll enjoy a deeper look into a life well lived.
Faith element: N/A
NEVER GIVE UP By Joyce Meyer ISBN 978-1-60024-413-1 HachetteAudio Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
We often sabotage our lives by giving up, not letting go the past. We
play the blame game, making our own and everyone else's life miserable, instead of appropriating God's promised forgiveness
and freedom.
Meyer tackles the things, like fear, that undermine our relationship
with God and others and keeps us from living the life of freedom and abundance God plans for each of us. Fear will sabotage
our relationships, our faith and our future. We must take responsibility for our lives and realize that God is trustworthy
and give our fears to Him.
As always, Meyer's words are practical and solidly based on God's truth.
It certainly hits home as it enlightens, opening that door so we can step confidently into a future of hope.
Of all Meyer's books, this really meets a huge need for every one of
us. My print copy is all marked up. With the audiobook, I could hear as well as see her words and different things made an
impact. Whether you prefer to read or hear the message, this book is Highly recommended.
Faith element: high
LITTLE PINK HOUSE One Woman's Historic Battle Against Eminent Domain By
Jeff Benedict ISBN 978-1-60024-481-0 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
All Susette Kelo wanted to do was keep her historic little pink cottage
with a view over the water that had become home. All she and her neighbors wanted was to be left alone. They didn't care if
the land around them was developed. They just wanted to preserve their neighborhood.
But the city of New London had other plans. They wanted the blue collar
neighborhood to disappear so they could deed the land to a wealthy private investor. Kelo and her neighbors had no money to
fight. What chance did they have? What they had was Kelo and she decided to fight. She and her neighbors took a stand, and
with the help of many others, they took the case right to the US Supreme Court...and lost.
It was the Kelo case of eminent domain that outraged America when the
US Supreme Court in a very narrow decision decided government could just take land from the less well to do to hand it over
to wealthy investors who would bring more revenue to the government.
Even with that finding, Kelo and her neighbors held on.
This is a true American story of determination and a willingness to fight
city hall. It is story of very real people and a government who lost touch with the idea of serving all the people, not just
those with fat bank accounts. It is also a story of survival against all odds.
The characters in this story are real and sometimes use inappropriate
language. Nevertheless, I highly recommend this audiobook. Fascinating. Every high school should assign this to students.
Faith Element: N/A
THE SURVIVOR'S CLUB The Secrets and Science That Could Save Your Life By
Ben Sherwood ISBN 978-1-60024-145-1 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When tragedy strikes, what makes one persona survive and another succumb?
The author went on a search that took him many places, studied many theories and talked to survivors. What was the result?
There are things we can do to help ourselves survive.
Attitude plays a big part in any outcome. Those who survive have a positive
attitude. They refuse to give up, they are self-motivated, they have support from family and friends, they are committed to
life and faith plays a fundamental part in survival. Other factors also come in play. Taking basic precautions, dressing appropriately
and how close one is to medical care plays a part. (Those who survive plane crashes tend to be those who sit closer to exits,
are aware of their surroundings, in good health, read instructions provided and dress appropriately—no flip flops.)
This is just a small portion of the information in this 11 disc audio
book. Very informative, interesting and intriguing. What it all boils down to, we can't always get out of a bad situation,
but those who do, do so because their will to live overcomes paralyzing fear. Worth a listen. (Or get the book.)
CALL ME TED (Non-fiction) Ted Turner ISBN 978-1-60024-420-9 Hachette
Audio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This 7 CD set gives us Turner's story narrated by himself. Woven into
his personal narrative are the voices and views from many who've been influential in his life, even when their viewpoints
differ substantially from Turner's viewpoint. Ted is at times outrageous, courageous, brilliant, gung-ho, volatile and energetic.
Turner was a self-made man. Or was he? How much of a part did a strict,
abusive father and his father's philandering, who nonetheless believed in high standards and hard work, as well as his parent's
divorce play in his high work ethic, determination to succeed, his need for attention and in his own marital failures?
We hear Ted become more and more liberal and more anti-Christian, though
he claims otherwise. He actually believes CNN is unbiased, though it has come a long way from seeking to promote diversity
of views. In the last CD he expounds on his pet topics of the environment, disarmament, etc.
The CALL ME TED is an interesting look into the rise, trials and triumphs
of one of America's most visible and wealthiest entrepreneurs. Interesting and enlightening.
100 WAYS TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE By Joyce Meyer Read by Sandra McCollom ISBN
978-1-60024-178-9 HachetteAudio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
How many of us are so busy we feel we're spinning in circles? If your
schedule has gotten away from you, it is time to settle in and listen to this 4 CD set from Joyce Meyer. Using examples from
her own life and with a solid foundation of Scripture, Meyer gives us 100 ways to have a hassle-free life.
We all know we need to start with our faith. Ask God's help as we start
this journey.
We need to make a commitment to stand firm when we do make decisions. How
do we simplify our lives? Avoid overcommitment. Don't fret over things you can't change. Don't be afraid to ask for
help or let others do their jobs without your interference. Spend your time wisely. You don't need to open all that junk
mail you receive. You don't even need to read all those magazines. If you don't get to them within a reasonable time, a few
days, get rid of clutter—either throw or give away what you don't have time for. Don't put up with phone calls pressuring
you to purchase this or that. Get on the Do Not Call List. Schedule important activities. Save time by being more efficient.
Of course, trust God and always have an attitude of gratitude. These
are just a handful of the practical suggestions on this audiobook.
As usual, Meyer is down-to-earth practical as well as uplifting and encouraging.
Need to simplify your life? Give a listen and slow down.
OUTLIERS (Non-fiction) The Story of Success By Malcolm Gladwell ISBN
978-1-60024-391-2 Hachette Audio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In America we look up to those who've “made it,” especially
when they seem to come out of hardship to do so. However, Gladwell took another look at the successful and discovered success
isn't an accident. It is a product of environment, timing, birth and serendipity.
How one responds in different situations has to do with many things including
background, family and government structure. It isn't profiling to understand that certain responses are practically bred
into us and if we address these core issues, we can change at least certain outcomes.
Do I agree with Gladwell's conclusions? Not entirely. But he does force
us to look beyond preconceived ideas to help us discover how we can make the best of the situation in which we find ourselves.
Well worth a listen. Great for discussion groups.
AGAINST MEDICAL ADVICE (Non-fiction) One family's struggle with an
agonizing medical mystery By James Patterson ISBN 978-1-60024-365-3 Hachette Audio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
They began when Cory was five--the head shaking, arm and leg thrusts,
repetitive actions he couldn't control.
So began years of trying to find answers to help Cory who was locked
in a world that separated him from others and kept him from forming lasting friendships. Doctors, specialists in their fields,
tried drug after drug combinations, with often frightening side effects, that never helped--at least not for long.
Finally,
lost in a world of alcohol to deaden the pain of his miserable young existence, Cory gave up, turned his back on more drug
experiments, went a new direction, and with courage and the support of his family, found his way back to life.
A
moving story of perseverance and courage.
Note: This inspirational story is not a God-story, but one of human
persistence to overcome. It also contains references to mild rough language, smoking, drinking and drugs.
Still,
a remarkable true story.
TITANICS LAST SECRETS (Non-fiction) Further Adventures of the Shadow
Divers (History) By John Chatterton & Richie Kohler ISBN 978-1-60024-185-7 Hachette Audio Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
There has been argument about what really happened to the Titanic since
the ship first went down. But who knew the answer still lay not only in previously undiscovered wreckage on the bottom of
the ocean, but also buried deep in the files of those entrusted with the safety of the ship—the owners.
TITANICS LAST SECRETS takes us on a breathtaking voyage under the sea
as well as providing background story on the Titanic itself to unveil the truth of what really happened that fateful day.
Intriguing, enlightening and well worth the time to listen.
Note: A couple of mild language problems.
IT'S OUR SHIP (Non-fiction) The No-Nonsense Guide to Leadership By
Captain D Michael Abrashoff ISBN 978-1-60024-157-3 Hachette Audio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Abrashoff uses his ship experience and things he learned commanding the
USS Benfold to help each of us become better leaders. As I listened to this audiobook, I kept grabbing paper and pen to jot
down notes on what he was saying. His examples are vivid and real, his delivery engaging and I found it difficult not to go
immediately onto the next CD when I had other things which needed attention.
Here was a man who learned management techniques and efficiency in leadership
were more than rules and regulations. Leadership stemmed from being a person of integrity who modeled what he “preached”
and cared enough to encourage others to follow his leading to excellence.
What does he say about leadership? Allow
leaders to lead. Encourage self-confidence by showing them what and how to do the job then relinquishing responsibility and
allowing them to do the job. Give a sense of mission and purpose. Welcome those new to the operation/business/etc.
Be a mentor not a dictator or micromanager. Help others succeed. Be a role model and encourage others to be role
models. Share your values and attitudes. Don't wallow in mistakes, but move on from them to something productive. Tell
the truth. Don't fear it. Don't give phony assurances. Be a leader who accept truth graciously, without retribution. Pursue
excellence without arrogance.
This is only a short list of what the author imparts to the listener.
Recommended for leaders in government, business, school, church and other leadership venues.
MAKE TODAY COUNT John C Maxwell ISBN 978-1-60024-180-2 HachetteAudio Reviewed
by Elisabeth H. Bantz
If you'd rather listen to a book on SUCCESS than read it, this is for you. True success
is based on wisdom from God, and the decisions you make based on that wisdom.
The first CD begins: "Your agenda
determines your success," and continues with simple yet profound words of wisdom like, remove negative words from your mouth,
and replace them with the appropriate ones. And express gratitude always. The second CD expounds on the wisdom of putting
your family before success in the workplace. Instead of giving THINGS to your family, devote your TIME to them. And invest
your money wisely. Maxwell suggests 10% to God's work, 10% to investments, and 80% to live on. The third CD discusses faith
and success. We all have faith in something, but is it faith in the truth or untruth? A weak faith will be weakened by catastrophe,
but a strong faith will be strengthened by it.
The purpose in this life is not "to have and to hold," but "to
give and to serve." Our purpose is to add value to others. Treat everyone with respect. In doing so, it adds value to ourselves,
for we cannot give what we do not possess. Be generous before you become prosperous; THAT'S SUCCESS.
A modern
Book of Proverbs, I recommend this faith-filled and Bible based audiobook.
If you'd like to contribute to the continuation of Author's Choice
Reviews, please click the DONATION button. Thank you. (Not tax deductible.)
Most books used for reviews were complementary galleys or copies sent to ACR from publishers, publicists
or authors. There is never a garrantee of a review and many books sent do not fit our guidelines and are not reviewed. Books
sent are passed on to libraries, family, friends, etc.
All material on this site Copyrighted 2000-2010 By Carolyn R. Scheidies Quotes copyrighted
by respective authors/publishing companies. All rights reserved PLEASE do not use or pass on or post without express
permission!! Thank you.
![My Associates Store - Mr. Popper's Penguins](http://search.live.com/images/results.aspx?q=mr "popper s" penguins&mkt=en-US&FORM=HOTAPI#focal=e26723c1dd3768de67ad338628300173&furl=http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51SUEjdVXYL._SL210_.jpg "View image on Live Search")
