Book Review: A Sketch of the Life and Labors of George Whitefield

After experiencing A Great Awakening in the theater, I returned home raving about the powerful movie. It provided such a clear and accurate presentation of the gospel. Though your sins be as scarlet, Christ offers to wash them white as snow if you accept His free gift of salvation, bought for you in a transaction on the cross. George Whitefield was a revival preacher during America's Great Awakening (1734-1743). His story is fascinating and I wanted to delve deeper. A commenter on Facebook mentioned J. C. Ryle's book, A Sketch of the Life and Labors of George Whitefield. Ryle is the author of one of my favorite pamphlets, Do You Pray? I couldn't wait to explore his research into Whitefield. I borrowed it in audio form on Hoopla the next day.

I believe J. C. Ryle presented this as a lecture at some point. He gives a very direct description of Whitefield's life and ministry. He affirmed something mentioned in the movie, "He was immortal until his work was done." Whitefield preached a clear and concise gospel. He addressed man's complete ruin by sin, man's complete redemption by Christ and complete justification before God by faith in Christ, and man's need of regeneration by the spirit. His cry was convicting, "While ye were sinners, Christ died for you." He explained the transaction: the just for the unjust. He asserted even the vilest sinner could stand complete and righteous before the throne of God through Jesus' sprinkled blood that washes the blackest sins away. One has only to believe and be saved, to ask and receive, to wash and be clean. This is the pure and true gospel.

One thing I loved about the movie was the clear doctrine of the new birth. Once saved, as is evident in baptism, one is buried with Christ, washed and cleansed, and raised with him, a new creature. The Holy Spirit enters in and guides one in sanctification. The presence of the Holy Spirit is a seal of inheritance, proving one is born into God's family. Physically and spiritually, you cannot be unborn after He has sealed you with a promise of eternal life. How I want to emulate Whitefield's persistent goal, that his own name perish, so long as Christ only is exalted!

Book Review: Wings of Faith

This Salvation Army biography, Wings of Faith: The Remarkable Life of Harry Read, was written by Dawn Volz. I first encountered Commissioner Harry Read through his poetry posted on Facebook. I had memories of an Army leader in London who impacted my life when I worked at the International College for Officers shortly after my college graduation. It turns out that was Ed Read. Commissioner Ed Read met with me weekly and gave me reading assignments we then discussed in a mentor relationship. Ed is mentioned in this biography. Harry's life impacted many individuals, too.

The focal point of Harry's story is his parachute jump at the 75th D-Day celebration. At 95-years-old, he was fit and brave enough to jump from a plane (higher than the one he jumped from in his teen years). I think I was most impressed to learn that he authored one of my favorite Salvation Army songs, "God's Soldier." It has a rousing chorus of "We're gonna fill, fill, fill the world with glory; We're going to smile, smile, smile and not frown; We're going to sing, sing, sing the gospel story; We're going to turn the world upside down."

Harry's poetry is meaningful and his life exemplary. He and his wife, Win, "walked, spoke, and ministered together as they drew upon each other's strengths, making themselves fully available to the God they served." I appreciated, so much, hearing of his great humility. In an early difficult time, he observed, "The Lord seemed to be saying, 'Harry, there are some things I can only do for you when you're alone.' I've transposed that insight into every difficult, testing situation since." He demonstrated his deep need for God and God's forgiveness. He did not present himself as above the masses, in spite of great responsibility and impressive gifting. I asked for this book for Christmas a few years ago, but only now got around to reading it. I'm so glad I did.

Book Review: Companions in the Darkness

There are some who, having had the blues, feel they understand clinical depression. From their perspective, especially if they consider themselves Christians, they see it as a lack of faith. Too often, Christians with clinical depression are given well-meaning advice like, "choose joy," "just pray," or, "just read the Word more." Indeed, I watched a video by Millicent Sedra touting a "name it, claim it" perspective. She is a new internet sensation and ends with that very advice, "get your eyes off yourself and onto the Lord." I don't wish clinical depression on anyone, but those who have never known the depth seem all too quick to cast judgement on those who walk in darkness. This book, Companions in the Darkness, highlights seven saints who battled severe depression. I can't imagine anyone turning to Spurgeon and saying, "You choose your identity. Get your eyes off yourself, man!"

Diana Gruver has written a book that is highly important and a must-read if you're a Christian battling clinical depression. Companions in the Darkness: Seven Saints Who Struggled with Depression and Doubt yells with a megaphone, "You are not alone! You are not useless!" Diana Gruver outlines the lives and strategies of seven key figures like Charles Spurgeon, Martin Luther, and Mother Teresa. Many of the seminal hymns we sing were written by individuals familiar with this battle. It is possible to face doubt and despair in the midst of strong faith in God.

Indeed, I can see Gruver writing a follow-up book with the same message, focusing on greats of the Bible. There is a place for lament (Lamentations, David's psalms of lament). Prophets expressed depths of despair to the point of no longer wanting to live. Moses, in Numbers 11:15, declared to God, "I'd rather you kill me!" Job was perfect and upright. He feared God and eschewed evil. He was considered such a threat that Satan was determined to break him. In the midst of his physical, emotional, and spiritual battle, Job wished his life would end (Chapters 3, 7, 10). Can you see a self-righteous Christian today saying to Ezekiel, "Stop being self-indulgent! Gain some spiritual maturity, will you? You're looking at your circumstances and lacking in your faith. Your doubt is sin."

From Martin Luther's life, the reader learns the spiritual lesson of looking to the wounds of Christ. (Indeed, too many Christians seem to forget that Christ himself was despairing to the point of sweating drops of blood. Should the disciples have chastized him with, "Get your eyes off yourself?") If Christ bore wounds and the intense separation from the Father to atone for our sin debt, we can look to those wounds to help us endure the abyss. Luther also advised others to flee solitude and chase the smallest glimmers of joy that can be found.

From Hannah Allen's life we learn the imporance of journaling. This reminds us how God has intervened in the past. It also helps us recall the truths of the faith. Hannah's life encourages us to change our surroundings, as this sometimes helps. Sometimes, like David Brainerd, you must "choose to go, rather than stay." Forcing yourself to do what feels impossible, the next thing, moves you closer to healing. With Brainerd, may we say, "May every breath bring God glory and leave a legacy of faithful weakness."

The great hymn-writer William Cooper was incapacitated by depression and felt himself "on the rack." He, too, encourages us to seek a change of scenery and keep busy. His story reminds us to exercise, get outdoors, and be merry by force. Another great lesson I learn from Cooper's story is to "cling to the people God has brought into your life."

What a testimony Charles Spurgeon's life was. Gruver writes, "He also would not tolerate the accusation that good Christians do not get depressed. 'God's people sometimes walk in darkness and see no light.'" He was incredibly useful in spite of suffering physical pain and mental anguish. He preached thousands of sermons and sent countless letters. He was a wounded healer. I love that Gruver emphasized Isaiah 48:10, "I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction." At the end of this section, Gruver shared a letter she received in the midst of a dark spell. Her friend wrote these powerful words,"You are brave! You stand in the dark, whispering truth to yourself!"

In the section on Mother Teresa, Gruver comments on why depressed individuals often cannot take in the well-meaning reminder that God is close to the brokenhearted. She says, "That truth doesn't resonate in our icy hearts... prayer is different in the dark. It is filled with pain and longing." Mother Teresa walked with an unseen limp, a spiritual burden of feeling like God was absent. Yet, we must be obedient even in the limping, because like Gruver says, "He created you... with a beautiful way only you can image Him to the world." What a great reminder!

Finally, Gruver highlights Martin Luther King, Jr. He did not speak of his depression and did not seek any treatment, but those close to him recognized his despair and anguish. He battled sleeplessness. Exhaustion often exacerbates depression. He tapped four reservoirs: 1) the reservoir of resilience (press ahead regardless of opposition); 2) the reservoir of humor (laughter is a coping mechanism that keeps the demons at bay); 3) the reservoir of song (spirituals and songs like "Joshua Fit the Battle" inspired hope); and 4) the reservoir of spirituality (cosmic companionship - he said, "God's companionship does not stop at the cell door; God is your cell mate.").

Don't think this book is not for you if you've never battled depression. Chances are great that you know or have met someone who has. In the first appendix, Gruver offers ten useful steps to take when helping a friend/loved one who is depressed. In the second appendix, she provides brief biographies of each of the seven key figures. I probably took notes more intensely than usual. I need to return to these reminders and strategies when my own clinical depression pulls me under. Indeed, I may return to this book when life hits extra hard and, in spite of sound faith, my emotions and feelings threaten to overwhelm. It is a treasure chest of encouragement. 

Book Review: Jonathan Edwards

After editing the previous pamphlet reviews, I realized I had failed to write up a book review for another book I own and added to my morning devotional time. Stephen J. Nichols presents a thorough consideration of a great man of God in this book Jonathan Edwards: A Guided Tour of His Life and Thought. I know I greatly enjoyed this book because I tabbed many pages. Sadly, I've read several other books since then and my memory for writing this review will be taxed.

This biography summarizes Jonathan Edwards' major themes against the background of his life. Some call him America's greatest theologian. He was a minister in New England known for the famous sermon, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God." His careful consideration of a spider dangling from its web led to the thoughts in that sermon. 

The forward to this book asserts, "We read Edwards because Edwards interprets Scripture so powerfully that he helps us to see God better." Edwards emphasizes the glory, the majesty, and the sovereignty of God. I was blown away by Edwards' productivity. He was always studying, always learning, and always considering new angles of insight. His longsuffering wife cared for the household, allowing him to focus on his studies and his sermon preparation. He was instrumental in propeling the time of revival we call "The Great Awakening."

Even though he's well known for his consideration of God's wrath, Edwards writes extensively about God's grace. At one point, he argues, "All our good is of God, through God, and in God. God is the source, cause, and author of our good. God is the means and mediator of our good. God is the end, object, and essence of our good." In Nichol's explanation, "God's power converts, preserves, and will someday perfect his redeemed."

He was also interested in clarifying that there is a difference between professing Christ and possessing Christ. There are distinguishing signs in the lives of those who possess Christ. He is willing to admit, though, that believers do not always live saintly lives. Edwards writes, "True saints may be guilty of some kinds and degrees of backsliding, may be foiled by particular temptations, and fall into sin, yea, great sins; but they can never fall away so as to grow weary of religion and the service of God, and to habitually dislike and neglect it, either on its own account or on account of the difficulties that attend it." With true believers, the Holy Spirit is evident.

One other tid-bit I recall from the book is that Edwards died from a fatal reaction to a smallpox vaccination. Shortly after this, his daughter died in the same way. How horrific! It makes me sad to think all the world lost with the death of this great man. It was a joy to learn more about him and made me want to spend time reading more of Edwards' writings. 

Book Review: Answers to Prayer from George Muller's Narratives

One of my favorite things to do during my time at the U of I graduate school was to wander and explore the stacks. This is the part of the library where so many books are shelved that they must be moved by conveyor belt to open one set of shelves at a time. Because the shelves slide back and forth, the books can be stored more compactly. I love researching, first and foremost. Then, I love reading. And finally, I love writing papers about what I've researched and/or read.

I was assessing whether there would be enough resources to write a graduate paper on orphans in Victorian England. While hunkered down with a pile of books, I opened one about George Muller. (His true name is Georg Muller, with an umlaut over the "u," but I don't know how to add the umlaut.) I had never heard of him before. His life, his faith, his prayer walk stunned me. It is true he had a heart for orphans, but what is even more striking is that he had a heart for total dependence upon God. I can remember the first story I read in the book. It told of a day when they had no food and the children were hungry. George prayed. The doorbell rang. Food was donated. Over and over again, his unwavering faith was rewarded with God's provision and miraculous intervention. How I long for the staunch faith and certitude Muller exhibited throughout his life!

In Answers to Prayer from George Muller's Narratives, the reader finds example upon example of Muller's faith and God's faithfulness. Muller put down these narratives of prayers answered in order to bolster and encourage others to believe and claim as he did. He writes, "I longed to set something before the children of God, whereby they might see, that He does not forsake, even in our day, those who rely upon Him." He knew what he asked for, he had no way of obtaining, yet he trusted God's capability and desire to meet those needs that align with His will. So, Muller prayed for every item/person/pound/building he required in his campaign to meet the needs of orphans. He prayed importunate prayers (here is a post about the meaning of "importunate" and examples of God's answers to my own importunate prayers). He never gave in to discouragement if the answers were slow in coming. Sometimes he prayed long and hard.

“It is now 14 months and 3 weeks since day by day have uttered my petitions to God on behalf of this work. I rose from my knees this morning in full confidence, not only that God could, but also would, send the means, and that soon. Never… have I had the least doubt, that I should have all that which is requisite.—And now, dear believing reader, rejoice and praise with me. About an hour, after I had prayed thus, there was given to me the sum of Two Thousand Pounds for the Building Fund…. How great is the blessing which the soul obtains by trusting in God, and by waiting patiently.” 

He encourages readers not to give in to despair. Instead of distrusting God or charging Him with unfaithfulness, Muller merely hunkered down, increasing the number of times they prayed together daily over these needs and concerns. When the orphanage boiler failed, he prayed for God to change the north wind to a south wind and to give the workmen a mind to work (as workers had in rebuilding the wall in Nehemiah). Indeed, the wind changed direction and the men insisted on working through the night.

Muller also offers, in an appendix, "Five Conditions of Prevailing Prayer." 1) Entire dependency on God's mediation, 2) "Separation from all known sin," 3) Faith in God's promise (here he writes something of my guilt: "Not to believe Him is to make Him both a liar and a perjurer."), 4) "Asking in accordance with His will," and 5) importunity in requests.

This small ebook, available through Hoopla, is a dense compendium of Muller's faith and God's faithfulness. If you are wanting something more accessible, seek either the video or book called The Robber of the Cruel Streets. My husband and I watched this several years ago. It shares George Muller's testimony in a very engaging and inspiring way.

Book Review: The Harmony Within

Rolland Hein, author of The Harmony Within: The Spiritual Vision of George MacDonald, was my professor at Wheaton College years ago. George MacDonald's book, Phantastes, had a vast impact on C. S. Lewis. Although I've never read Phantastes, I selected Hein's book for my post-devotional reading in the morning. Since I've only read one MacDonald book, At the Back of the North Wind, it may have been better to dive into the author's writings before reading literary criticism about them.

George MacDonald wrote over 50 volumes of poetry, essays, short stories, sermons, fantasies, and novels. Hein provides extensive lists of his primary and secondary sources in his bibliography. Honestly, I had no business reading this book, based on my miniscule exposure to MacDonald's works. However, I did gain a sense of this author's spiritual perspectives. Even without extensive knowledge of the fantasies (the primary focus of study), I was able to follow the book's structure and learn of MacDonald's views and goals. I'm not a big fan of fantasy. Indeed, I think I'm more interested in reading his sermons than his fantasies. Hein's book examines MacDonald's oeuvre to show how his spiritual perspectives/understanding helped to determine the shape of his novels/fantasies.

For more on MacDonald and an overview of his prolific works, visit The Works of George MacDonald.

* I'm glad I already owned a copy of this book as the Amazon price ranges from $26-$47. I would be interested in reading Hein's The Heart of George MacDonald: A One-Volume Collection of His Most Important Fiction and then tackling his book, George MacDonald: Victorian Mythmaker. It saddened me to learn this beloved professor died two years ago. I have fond memories of his classes and of the students with whom I shared those moments.

Book Review: Five Mere Christians - Highly Recommend

How thrilling to find Five Mere Christians, by Jordan Raynor with Kaleigh Cox, available through Hoopla. The smaller free e-book about Fred Rogers whetted my appetite. I prefer my biographies intense and full of detail. Yet, this small book is one I would highly recommend reading. You may think you know the stories of the most famous individuals showcased here (Mr. Rogers and C. S. Lewis). I promise you will learn new perspectives and glean great insights.

The five mere Christians highlighted in this book include Mr. Fred Rogers, Fannie Lou Hamer, Ole Kirk Christiansen, Hannah More, and C. S. Lewis. Rogers, the famed television personality, emphasized service and slowing down (to "Fred time") in order to focus on others. The world is better off because he chose a pulpit with puppets instead of podiums. Civil rights activist Hamer provided an example to follow when confronting injustice. Her tenacity and unwillingness to resort to hate changed her state and nation. I knew nothing of Christiansen, the founder of the Lego company. What a testimony of faith under trial, commitment to excellence, and a quiet faith revealed while pursuing play! Recently, I encountered Hannah More in a women's biography devotional I am using this year. Her wisdom in marketing tracts and starting Sunday schools led many to know Christ. She worked alongside William Wilberforce fighting the slave trade in England. Finally, a well-known figure, C. S. Lewis, didn't think his work for the kingdom would last, but it outlived him and made him a household name in Christian circles.

I love the tight structure of these biographies. Each story is enticing and well-written. At the close of each section, the authors focus on 3 important points. This book does more than merely tell of interesting lives. It encourages readers to see opportunities to advance Christ's kingdom wherever personal passion and vision lead. In the section on Hannah More, they recommend readers reject isolation and embrace insulation. One example of isolation is only reading Christian books. Instead, seek insulation. A jacket insulates you from the cold so you can be out in the cold. 

I'd love to outline all these points because they made a significant impact. Instead, I'll encourage you to read the book and take notes, as I did. I will go back over those notes for daily pointers on attracting others to Christ for His kingdom through whatever I do (I don't have a specific job - even my mothering job is now defunct, with the youngest off at college). If you've never read a Jordan Raynor book, start with this excellent one. It is full of practical wisdom, packaged in story.

Book Review: A Marriage at Sea

A Marriage at Sea, a survival biography by Sophie Elmhirst, offers a fascinating look at circumstances that challenged a young British couple. The author divides the book into four sections. Section one focuses on this intrepid couple's courtship and voyage. Section two outlines their survival at sea after their yacht sinks. The third section covers the popular obsession with their rescue tale and the unique challenges of their rise to fame. In the final section, the couple moves on from the spotlight and must live out their days.

Maurice and Maralyn Bailey, two unique and interesting individuals, don't seem like a perfect match. He is awkward and unsociable. She is optimistic and independent. It is unusual that they end up together. Even more unusual, their differing personalities mesh and work when life throws significant challenges their way.

Maurice is hard to like, making Maralyn's devotion hard to understand. What a tale of contrasts! Maralyn is optimistic. She clings to the hope of reaching the Galapagos. Maurice, knowing about winds and currents, despairs. The author writes that Maurice "found himself wondering if they had enough gas in the canister to kill themselves." Maralyn encourages him to keep rowing, while he considers her delusional. She never questions their survival. Being alone at sea causes Maurice to contemplate his personality, his rough edges. He sincerely wants to be different. But is he capable of changing?

The book read like fiction. I enjoyed the first three sections. Although I couldn't understand their wanderlust (or their comfort with life at sea), it was fascinating. Sad to say, if in their shoes, I'd be more like Maurice, losing hope and giving in to despair. I loved watching how Maralyn's optimism bolstered Maurice's defeat. The rescue was riveting. The whirlwind media blitz was exhausting (almost more daunting than surviving life in the elements at sea).

I found section four depressing. Still, it was a provocative and gripping tale of personalities tested by trial. I appreciated the author's expansion, likening this survival tale to every marriage relationship. We are all tossed about in a dinghy, trying to survive the elements and waves of life together. We can make each other stronger, or we can pull each other down. Thus, I found much to contemplate from this intriguing survival story. Despite a scoffing tone toward faith, the book's outline of relational struggles encouraged me to contemplate my own faults. I want to be beneficial, not detrimental, in my relationships. 

I end this review with an illustration from the book. The author shares the story of a downed plane. The pilot left to seek help, only to return and find the two passengers dead. Elmhirst writes, "Able only to sit and wait, what could they do but die? It is not so much the feats of endurance that keep people alive as the absence of surrender. Maurice, lacking occupation, became desolate. There was no evidence to convince him that survival was likely, and he found it hard to believe in things he couldn't see. What was the point of trying?" May we strive to be like the pilot and Maralyn, focusing on hopes for the future, instead of fixing on frustrations and limitations of the present. 

Book Review: E. M. Bounds: Man of Prayer

Meeting Patti Callahan Henry at her author talk in Franklin, IN, propelled me into several reading kicks. First, I read 2 of Patti's books. Becoming Mrs. Lewis sparked a desire to pick up my dear friend (and former boss) Lyle W. Dorsett's book, And God Came In (re-titled A Love Observed). At the same time, in my morning devotional focus on prayer books, I worked through his exceptional brief biography and compilation book on Edward McKendree Bounds. This Dorsett book-reading kick sparked a C. S. Lewis kick. The Amazon image of Lyle's book was sideways, so I took a photo of my copy, and you can see how many tabs I marked to come back to later.

Of course, the focus of E. M. Bounds: Man of Prayer centers on prayer. I loved one particular illustration from the life of D. L. Moody. Moody had been called upon to preach at a church in London, but found the morning service dry, sterile, and unproductive. That evening, he arrived to find a different outcome. Later, he discovered a decisive factor. An invalid woman, on hearing Moody had been there to preach at her church that morning, shut herself into her room and petitioned the Lord to work through D. L. Moody. Yes, our prayers matter!

Bounds emphasizes the urgency of prayer. He writes, "The lesson of it all is this, that as workers together with God we must regard ourselves as in not a little measure responsible for the conditions which prevail around us today. Are we concerned about the coldness of the church?... Does our soul go out to God in midnight cries for the outpouring of His spirit?... If we do our part, God will do His. Around us is a world lost in sin, above us is a God willing and able to save; it is ours to build the bridge that links heaven and earth, and prayer is the mighty instrument that does the work."

Lyle Dorsett organizes snippets from Bounds' writings into topic categories. In the section on money, Bounds castigates the idolatry of preachers who seek prominence among people and profit in their pocket. Bounds writes, "Ambition... for honor is, in a preacher, nothing short of sin. Covetousness... is the refinement of idolatry.... Preachers must quit lauding the money-making talent; must quit following the money-making business."

Bounds' prayerfulness impressed me, but also his humility. He quoted Alexander Mclaren, "If a man considers himself to be an iron pillar, he is of no use to God. God works through broken reeds." In another place, he emphasizes, "Nothing keeps us from revolutionizing things for God but our self-bigness and our faith-littleness." Here is a man who has every reason to consider himself an example to others, a guide for the masses, yet he remains grounded and recognizes his own deep need for God's grace. If only my life looked like E. M. Bounds' life! I want to fall on my face in humility, recognizing my deep need for God and His grace. I want to pray as if it depends on me and trust as if it depends on God.

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Please say a prayer for Lyle Dorsett! His beloved wife, Mary, died in the early morning hours on 7/7/25 after enduring cancer for years.

Book Review: And God Came In

As I read Patti Callahan Henry's novel about Mrs. C. S. Lewis, I felt compelled to dig out an older book I own called And God Came In. Dr. Lyle W. Dorsett, then curator of the Marion E. Wade Center, wrote this brief biography (republished as A Love Observed). The staff at the Wade gave me an autographed copy in December 1984. I probably haven't pulled it out and read it in over a couple of decades. My heart bursts with love for both Lyle and his wife, Mary. They were so kind to me during my Wheaton years and treated me as if I were their child.

Joy Davidman lived a vibrant and tumultuous life. She was as brilliant as they come, with a nearly photographic memory. Pushed in her early years to excel, she graduated from college in her early teens. She declared herself an atheist and, later, a communist. Patti Callahan Henry's novel about her life begins with the moment God came in. Lyle does an outstanding job of revealing how significant Joy considered this abrupt introduction to the Almighty. Her life was changed. She was changed. She must have been a remarkable young woman! Her tenacity is awe-inspiring. Of course, the English considered her abrupt and loud (many Americans are). Still, she was an excellent sparring companion and like a flint for C. S. Lewis.

I guess the thing that jumped out at me the most from reading this book is not an observation about Joy, but one about myself. As I was reading, I came upon a passage from a C. S. Lewis letter. He abbreviated the word "would" with the letters "wd." I immediately recognized this abbreviation. It is one I use when taking notes during lectures or scrawling quickly in a journal entry. It makes total sense to me now that my notations are influenced by the time I spent transcribing C. S. Lewis' letters at the Wade Center. I am sure I picked up these shorthand methods from him.

When I mentioned this to my husband, he said it was completely understandable that I would absorb things from a man I admired. That's the thing, though. I would say I admired Lyle Dorsett far more than I admired C. S. Lewis. My favorite photo of Lyle accompanies this Christianity Today testimony in the September 2014 issue (by typing in the title of the article, "A Sobering Mercy," I was able to gain access to make a copy). Indeed, I had not even read any of Lewis' works when I began my transcribing work. The first Lewis book I read was Till We Have Faces, for a class taught at Wheaton by Frederick Buechner. Then, I picked up The Screwtape Letters. When my boys were small, I read some of The Chronicles of Narnia books to them and then finished the series for myself. At some point, I also tried to read his space trilogy but lost interest.

Some people prefer novels to biographies. If so, definitely lean toward Becoming Mrs. Lewis. But some of us enjoy biography. The details are fascinating. I love a thoroughly researched biography. Lyle did a great job! It makes me want to pick up another book from off my shelves, Lenten Lands, written by Joy Davidman's son, Douglas Gresham. I've read it before, but I might as well stay on this little Lewis kick.

Book Review: Being Elisabeth Elliot

I'm so grateful to Sara Brunsvold for mentioning the two-part biography of Elisabeth Elliot, written by Ellen Vaughn. The Hoopla access to both Becoming Elisabeth Elliot and Being Elisabeth Elliot kept my interest piqued during my daily treadmill time. My only complaint with listening to biographies in audio form is that the reader misses out on the accompanying photos. For the first book, I found a hard copy at a local church library. A friend offered to lend me the hardback of the second book, but I may purchase this set.

In Becoming Elisabeth Elliot, we learn some of her exacting personality. In Being Elisabeth Elliot, the quirks and, even perhaps, failings seem more pronounced. Vaughn clarifies the importance of truth-telling in a biography. Elisabeth was not perfect (only Christ is). Despite an intense dedication to obedience to the Lord, she gave in to loneliness and relational desires. It was appalling to read of the flirtations that went on between Elisabeth and her soon-to-be second husband, while that man's dying wife was still alive. This detracted from her testimony.

Several favorite parts made me want to own this book. I loved the societal explanation of the '60s, Elisabeth's views on Christian ideals, and an outstanding and inspiring testimony drawn from the life of her son-in-law. Even though I was born mid-way through the 60s, the descriptions were so spot-on and well-written. Vaughn's word choices and witty commentary made me smile.

I, too, struggle with a Christianity that adheres to actions determining a person's spiritual depth. Elisabeth felt that truth liberates where dogma imprisons. I cannot remember if this is a quote from Elisabeth's or from Ellen's perspective, but it bears repeating. "We love to establish worldliness as something to be combatted by elimination of activities rather than internal attitudes." How many hold that a true Christian doesn't smoke, drink, or cuss, goes to church on Sundays and Wednesdays, and participates in a variety of ministries? These externals are all well and good, but the internals are far more significant. Elisabeth was always in a fight against graven images, often ones produced by the church.

As for Walt Shepherd's dramatic testimony, I loved it so much I transcribed it from the audio to share with my wayward son. Walt's parents were missionaries. Yet, as he came into himself, he rejected their views and beliefs. He walked a perilous path. There was even a miraculous rescue from a burning car (perhaps by angels). God's hand was clearly on Walt's life. His story was worth taking the time to transcribe from the audiobook (for my keeping). It is in Chapter 31, if you can find a copy of the book and wish to read it for yourself.

All in all, Elisabeth endured more suffering than many of us will ever know. She may not have always made the best choices, but she determined to obey her Lord and Savior. I can align with her views on obedience, on suffering, on women's roles, and on God's daily grace. Her books have been, and will continue to be, a blessing to Christians everywhere. God used her life in mighty ways, despite her failings.    

Book Review: Minister Rogers' Neighborhood

I jumped when Jordan Raynor offered gratis this short e-book, Minister Rogers' Neighborhood: How Fred Rogers Glorified God in His Work--and How You Can Do the Same. It is an excerpt from his upcoming book of Christian biographies called Five Mere Christians: Binge-Worthy Biographies That Show How to Glorify God in Your Work, written with Kaleigh Cox. I adored the more extensive biography, The Good Neighbor, written by Maxwell King. Mister Rogers was such a powerful example and encourager to children everywhere. He lived out his calling to the best of his ability. His voice still speaks into our current chaotic world. I often see the quote he provided after the 9/11 incident, referring to looking for "the helpers."

One thing I learned from Raynor's brief biography: Fred Rogers was uncomfortable touching his eye, so he had his ophthalmologist/assistant put his contacts in every morning and remove them in the evening. I would probably be too squeamish to wear contacts, but doubt I'd find someone willing to place them and remove them for me, ha! I think the key takeaway from this quick e-book is to find what God has placed on your heart to do and do it with all your might to the glory of the Lord. Mister Rogers didn't just work in children's educational television; he sought to speak into the lives of each viewer, whatever the Holy Spirit wanted them to hear. I loved the lesson Fred learned about how the Holy Spirit can speak into a person's life, even when that same message doesn't reach another individual. Fred said, "I've been able to recognize that the space between someone who is offering the best he can and someone who is in need is holy ground." Here's a short snippet of an interview with Dr. Lee Warren, author of Hope is the First Dose, that highlights this quote.

If you prefer sound-bite biographies or if you're looking for a more Christian spin, this book fits the bill. I, personally, preferred King's biography of Fred Rogers. But I have a master's in history, so I've never viewed biographies as a chore. Raynor's emphasis remains on doing secular work with just as much passion as ministers, missionaries, and clergy. His focus is on the theology of work. If you are working in a secular job and struggling to see how it matters for the Kingdom of God, Raynor's books target you specifically.

If you'd like to read this, click here to download your free copy or you can find it on Amazon.

Book Review: Becoming Elisabeth Elliot

When I was at Wheaton College, I befriended a floor-mate named Andrea Howard. She was delightful (spunky, funny, fun). It was interesting to learn about Elisabeth Elliot (Andrea's aunt) and the story of her husband's martyrdom in the jungle of Ecuador. Once, while at Wheaton, Elisabeth came to the college to deliver a lecture. I own 2 of her books about Jim Elliot and love a particular quote from him I found once in Paula Rinehart's Better Than My Dreams. Thus, when Sara Brunsvold mentioned Ellen Vaughn's 2-part biography of Elisabeth Elliot, I was eager to dive in.

Becoming Elisabeth Elliot shares the initial parts of Elisabeth's life (her growth, her courtship, her loss of her first husband, and her struggles with her missionary role). It is clear, God's ways are not our ways. From the very beginning of her missionary career, she faced obstacles head on. After nine months of work on the Colorado language, all of her linguistic notes, files, charts, etc. went missing when someone stole her suitcase off a truck. Despite frustration, she accepted God's will and termed it her "school year." No explanation could suffice. She wrote, "Faith's most severe tests come not when we see nothing, but when we see a stunning array of evidence that seems to prove our faith vain. If God were God, if He were omnipotent, if He had cared, would this have happened?... It was a long time before I came to the realization that it is in our acceptance of what is given that God gives Himself." For her, it came down to obedience, regardless of the cost.

In another passage, toward the end, Vaughn writes, "For Betty, the sad days weren't times to be denied, suppressed, or avoided. Betty's medical training, and her theology, did not allow her to deny the existence of pain... It showed God was at work. If she walked the path of obedience, He would in fact use her very pain for His good purposes. But the problem with pain is that it hurts."

Anyone who has encountered unexplainable suffering will find comfort and hope in these pages about Elisabeth Eliot's life. She was not a saint. She had her own personal quirks and personality edges. Yet, her life is a primer for accepting God's will, even when it is hard and makes little sense. We must accept His will even when the outcomes remain unquantifiable. Elisabeth Elliot's pain and struggles drove her to deeper obedience than sunshine and flowers ever would. May I remember her example when I'm called to walk a hard road. This honest 2-part biography would be a fine addition to a personal library.

Book Review: The Wright Brothers - Highly Recommend

What a fascinating book by David McCullough! I highly recommended this to my son, Sean, who plans to pursue aeronautical engineering. I even read bits aloud to him and shared a story from Wilbur's youth that resounded with an important life lesson. As a teen, looking forward to attending Yale University, Wilbur encountered an accident that altered his life for three years. A neighbor boy (by intent or accident is unknown, although that boy proved in later years to be a serial killer) knocked out Wilbur's upper teeth with a hockey stick. He could not go away to school. Complications and emotional alterations held Wilbur hostage. During that time, he read voraciously, no doubt studying much that he would one day use in his invention. I observed to Sean (and later told Trevor), sometimes the worst things to happen to us can end up being the best thing to happen to us because it turns into something productive we could never have imagined.

Wilbur and Orville Wright, the famous Dayton, Ohio, brothers, dreamed of creating some means of flying. Many scoffed, imagining this an impossibility. It surprised me that the United States seemed disinterested in the brothers' advancements. Although the initial test runs took place in North Carolina, most of the introductory flights occurred in Europe. The French were especially interested in flight and several French aeronautical engineers were also working on making this dream a reality. Equally surprising, I learned Orville suffered an accident that claimed the life of his passenger (the first death associated with flight).

I enjoyed this dip into the history of flight. The dogged pursuit of these mild-mannered brothers was inspiring. Refusing to listen to naysayers, they quietly and persistently worked to understand the mechanics involved. Their invention changed our world. Even if you are not interested in exploring history, this book provides a human interest story full of inspiration and hope. Most of us will live ordinary lives of little to no consequence, but the Wright brothers deserve every accolade for their determination and courage.

The Woman Beyond the Attic

As explained in my review of The Umbrella Lady, I have never read a book by V. C. Andrews. Still, who hasn't heard of The Flowers in the Attic? I may live in a cave, unaware of the success of Celtic Thunder, but you'd have to be, say, trapped in an attic to be unaware of the book that vaulted V. C. Andrews to fame. Reading one of her ghostwritten books made me game to read her biography, written by her ghostwriter, Andrew Neiderman. Any writer's biography would interest me and I suppose that is why I kept reading. Now, I'm more certain I'll never choose this author's books.

In many ways, The Woman Beyond the Attic: The V. C. Andrews Story, demonstrates the truth that personal trial reaps creative inspiration. Authors who suffer understand the human condition and translate that suffering into works that are relatable to the masses. This author's life is a mini-picture of the emotion she taps in her famous book. Afflicted with arthritis, Virginia Andrews watched her idyllic childhood vanish when she twisted in just the wrong way on a staircase in her high school. This minor action led to a major redirection in her life. Doctors recommended a body cast, hoping the skeletal structure would heal in the proper way. But she didn't heal. For the rest of her life, Virginia felt trapped in a body that required help and care. Her controlling mother, somewhat ashamed of Virginia's disability and determined to protect her at all costs, kept her from engaging more fully in society. Thus, this author could articulate for others a story about four children trapped in an attic.

Biographies provide a chance to walk in another individual's shoes. This writer differs from me. She believes in reincarnation. The way she portrays Christianity in abusive terms shows her disdain. Plus, she embraces writing as a chance to play god in the lives of her characters. ("I step into a universe of my own making, and I am the god. What a sense of power!") 

While it was interesting to learn all about this author's life, this biography provided little writing wisdom. Two lessons emerged from her story. First, an author must persevere despite years of rejection. Like many writers, V. C. Andrews devoted much time and practice prior to achieving success. Some might say this one book catapulted her to "instant" success, but that's wrong. She had already written nine other novels and many short stories before she landed on the idea for her Flowers book. The origin of that story germ highlights the second lesson. Stories come from a myriad of sources and a writer must keep their eyes and ears open to plausible ideas. After hearing a true story of children isolated in an attic, Virginia asked the key writing question, "What if?"

At the end of this biography, Neiderman provides samples of the author's work, including an unfinished story, the bones of another story, and a few poems. Although I tried to read her writing, I skipped through this part (unsavory from the outset and not all that compelling either). Given that V. C. Andrews takes her isolated children down a path of incest, I have no desire to read this book that captivated millions. I hope Neiderman's sequel to The Umbrella Lady will be clean.

Content caution: 📒 - the biography discusses sex and one writing sample displays sex

Book Review: Lives of the Musicians

Since I enjoyed Kathleen Krull's Lives of the Writers, I sought another similar volume. This time she delved into the fascinating biographies of twenty famous musicians in Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought). Written in 1993, this is the first book in this series of biography compilations. As in the other book, she presents oddities and tid-bits with flair.

I was intrigued to learn that Chopin shared some of Dickens' obsessive quirks and got ideas while walking. He was quite meticulous. He spent six weeks working on one page of music. Brahms was also intense. His first symphony was the product of ten years of devotion. Like other famous musicians and writers, he burned what he didn't like and started over. 

I enjoyed the section on Gilbert and Sullivan the most. It was full of new and interesting facts. I hadn't known about the friction between them. Nor did I realize that Sullivan wrote "Onward Christian Soldiers." Even more perplexing, someone kidnapped Gilbert when he was two and held him for ransom. 

Many of these famous musicians turned to their colleagues' music for comfort. When sad, Ives would play "Onward Christian Soldiers," until his melancholy lifted. Of course, some sought unconventional cures. Stravinsky relaxed by standing on his head. Crazy!

My library only has a few more of these titles, covering athletes, explorers, presidents, and scientists. I probably won't seek those out, but I may seek a neighboring library's copy of her Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought). The other inaccessible titles explore the lives of extraordinary women and pirates. Sadly, this author passed away a little over a year ago. No more interesting children's biographies from her entertaining pen!

Book Review: Lives of the Writers

When seeking the Gilbert and Sullivan book by Kathleen Karr (mentioned in my recent compilation of books about music), I stumbled onto this listing. My library no longer has Kathleen Karr's book, but they have several biographies by Kathleen Krull. Intrigued, I requested one. This delightful children's book introduces kids to twenty famous (or semi-famous, as I didn't recognize a few of the names) authors. Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) shares all the tidbits and oddities that make lives interesting. I've studied Dickens for years, yet I was unaware of his obsessive-compulsive traits. Who knew Louisa May Alcott wrote for 14 hours a day, only taking breaks to run? So many of these authors felt they had to write to support their poverty-stricken families. Many went to work at young ages. Stripped of leisurely childhoods, did this prompt them to create fantastical worlds? Many took long walks of ten or twenty miles. This would make a great read-aloud for elementary classrooms. Informative and interesting.

Book Review: The Five

Crime in Victorian England fascinates me. I have never really focused on the Jack the Ripper cases, however. During my 2017 European trip, I passed on an opportunity to take a guided walk along Jack the Ripper's London. Instead, I chose a museum walking tour. This book, The Five, details the lives of the five victims of this notorious criminal. While many assume that all the victims were prostitutes, that was not true.

Historian Hallie Rubenhold introduces Polly, Annie, Elizabeth, Catherine, and Mary-Jane. She intersperses their tales with historical details to bring the Victorian era and the plight of the poor to life. Instead of being selected for selling sex, Rubenhold argues the Ripper likely chose these women because they were sleeping rough. Mary-Jane was the only one murdered in her bed. The rest of the women were lying in some hidden alleyway, some too drunk to register danger. What a sad, gruesome story. Evil manifests in every age and poverty renders far too many vulnerable.

Book Review: Craigslist Confessional

Secrets are hard things to carry. I assume most people have some secret they feel they would never deign to share with another individual. Secrets are beguiling. We read books full of secrets because they suck us in with intrigue and mystery. But, I don't know if I would ever divulge my secrets to a stranger, even if the opportunity arose.

I think more than anything this book, Craigslist Confessional, made me sad. Of course, it makes sense that it might because people seldom withhold information that is light-hearted or uplifting. Such stories can be shared in the open. The stories in this book present details of life that are shameful, tragic, depressing, or scandalous.

The author, Helena dea Bala, pursued an interesting idea. After her own unburdening to a stranger lightened her spirits, she reasoned others might welcome a listening ear. She placed an ad and people willingly came out of hiding to share deeply personal stories.

As a writer, I enjoy eavesdropping. It is a skill that leads to great character development and realistic dialogue. Curiosity pulls me in when I overhear a heated discussion. But the book still left a foul taste. While the concept was intriguing, I'm wishing I had averted my eyes. I would have been better served by inspirational testimonies. Clearly, I'm not cut out to be a priest or therapist. Confession may benefit the soul, but woe to the listening ear.

Book Review: A Curious Man

Winston Churchill was a courageous, inspiring man. Robert "Believe-it-or-Not!" Ripley was a curious, intriguing man. Both became household names. Neal Thompson's biography of Ripley's life presents this man who went from a socially awkward youth to a flamboyant and intense adult. He outlines how Ripley chanced upon his brand (the strange and unbelievable in life) and pursued it with passion.

While this audio book was fascinating and full of interesting tid-bits about an unusual life, I felt sorry for this driven and compulsive man. His life was filled with continuous pursuit of the shallow: fame, women, booze, and travel. He relentlessly collected items and information to share with the world. He seemed self-absorbed. Not exactly a likeable individual. Yet, I was curious enough to want more information about this peculiar man, because I checked out another book about Ripley shortly after finishing this one. If you're interested in biography, you will certainly find more inspiration from Erik Larson's book on Churchill. But, if you like the odd-ball and quirky, this biography is full of bizarre details of a crazy collector of the absurd.