Religious Inspiration Books

Mistaken identity was a story of two women, one killed tragically and one hurt and comatose. I read this book in two days. I couldn't put it down. I think at first it is a story about how trauma can put you in denial and question what is right in front of you, but then once acceptance is obtained, it shows how strength is drawn from faith and friends and love of family. These were two amazing families. I honestly cannot imagine the trauma that they both went through. An amazing story and an easy read. It makes you appreciate every moment of life.

I bought this book months ago, but kept putting it off for some reason. Yesterday I decided to pick it up and read. I had watched an interview months before with the two families explaining the situation and I wanted to know more. I was amazed by the reactions and the support given to both families during their time of need. I could barely put the book down and actually finished it in less than a day, which is more than I can say for other books. I think you don't even have to be religious to understand whats going on in the book because you go through this process with the families. It was amazing to read how both families pushed through and put on a positive face. Its also sad to have to read about one family finding out that the girl they thought was there own was actually someone else's. I especially felt sad when Aryn, who was going to propose to Laura after graduation, wrote his last blog. He seemed to be the most broken out of everyone in the family because he wanted to have a future with Laura. Its extremely brave of both families to handle the situation in a great way. They didn't feel a need to sue the man who was driving the truck that caused the accident, but instead would have just liked to know what really happened. This book was truly inspiring.

Everyone saw the news splashed across the headlines or on the evening news reports. The wrong family was sitting beside a recovering girl in the hospital. How could it have happened? Read MISTAKEN IDENTITY to get the inside account from the two families that were involved in the unbelievable story.

The story seems straight out of the movies, almost too hard to fathom. But the Van Ryn and Cerak families, aided by Mark Tabb, tell the story of how Whitney and Laura were misidentified and two families dealt with both joy and sorrow with the help of their unerring faith in God.

Laura and Whitney were both students at Taylor University, a Christian college in Indiana. There were both in a school van on their way back to campus from a banquet with a few other people. A tractor trailer crossed the median and hit the side of the van, plowing it onto the side of the road. "Laura" was thrown 50-feet from the van. When rescue workers found her, a purse and ID nearby said that it was Laura Van Ryn. The photo on the ID looked enough like her. Thus began a five-week trial for both families.

The Cerak family received a call that Whitney had died in the accident. An employee from the university had identified her for the family. Colleen couldn't bring herself to look at the empty shell of what was left of Whitney, knowing in her heart that the true spirit of Whitney was now standing before God. Had Colleen gone and identified the body, would the error have been caught on the first night? No one knows.

The entire story is a bunch of "what ifs" by both families. Little things during "Laura's" recovery made family and friends question and wonder when "Laura" would return to her full self. But with the doctors and therapists constantly telling the Van Ryns that the neurons are firing but not necessarily connecting properly yet, no one gave it a serious second thought.

Only after "Laura" starts to come out of her coma and respond to therapy do the questions truly get raised. When a therapist asks "Laura" to write her name -- out came "W-H-I-T-N-E-Y." In the next few days, the pieces all come together, and a forensic dentist verifies the worst news for the Van Ryn family: this is not Laura after all.

What should be a story of loss for the Van Ryn family is a story of unerring faith. They are truly grateful for the time they spent with Whitney in the hospital. They are happy for the Ceraks' miracle and do not blame God.

The Cerak family went through grief but knew that Whitney had lived in God's love and was in a better place. They had sorrow, but knew that they would all see Whitney sometime in the future. When the call came that she may still be alive, Carly, Whitney's sister, would not believe it. Not until she saw with her own eyes did she believe the miracle that Whitney was still alive.

The story is so uplifting in the true belief both families have in God, that even in the time of sorrow they both experienced, the reader never once felt truly sad. The Van Ryn and Cerak families are both truly exceptional families. They are unwavering in their faith and love in God. They are both wonderful examples of a life lived to the fullest.

Reviewed by: Jaglvr

I enjoyed reading this book. I am not one for reading books, and I couldn't put this book down, a couple parts of this story actually had chills. The two familes are so strong and inspirational. This is a very religious book though.

Immediately after finishing this book, I recommended it to my mother & sister. Both said they couldn't stop the tears whilst reading the book. Especially my mother, who lost a brother in a similar car accident 20 years ago - who knew all too well the pain that the victims' families were going through. She said there were several times when she was forced to put down the book because she was crying so much.

Despite the sadness of the events, I am amazed and impressed by the reactions of the families and Whitney herself. They deal with the tragedies with faith, and even humour. This book is most definitely worth a read - I've lent it to several people so far, and about to purchase extra copies as gifts for friends. I normally don't spend much money on books but this is definitely worth every dollar. I don't even begrudge the exorbitant sum I have to pay for international shipping.

To non-Christian readers who say they felt alienated by the heavy Christian themes, I encourage them to read anyway. If you're interested in reading this book to understand how they coped with the tragedy, those parts of the books aren't just a Sunday sermon - they are part of the families' healing process.

The only minor negative comment I have with this book is the style in which it is written. At times, it's overly emotive. The author's repeated use of "NOOOOOOOOO!" gets a bit tiring at times and suggests poor writing skills. The author could have done a better job of conveying emotions. But this is such a minor element of the book. The rest of the book is very easy to read and I still enthusiastically recommend this book.

I've read and reread this book so many times that I now know exactly where to look for passages about joy, self-acceptance, "homecaring," gratitude, simplicity, and so forth. The author has certainly done her homework in that the book is filled with pithy quotes, interesting information on a variety of topics, and biographical data on some famous and not-so-famous folks. Each day of the year, Sarah Ban Breathnach weaves this information in with her own words of insight and wisdom to create a delightfully uplifting book of inspiration and advice.

I bought this book several years ago and never managed to keep up for more than a few days. This year I found out why. When trying to establish evening rituals to help with sleep, I began this book again. YOU MUST START AT THE BEGINNING. That's where I went wrong before. You can't just jump in on the day you happen to receive it. That said, you can start on Jan 1 any time you want. I did that in late Feb, and I've been "doing" two pages a day to catch up. I've followed the instructions and started a gratitude journal, and I've already seen small changes in myself and my attitudes. I'm more mindful of my words and actions, and I'm more conscious of the things I have to be thankful for. I'm looking forward to more changes and a richer life experience as I continue my journey through this book. It may not be for everyone, but if you're looking to live a more conscious, mindful life, this collection of essays and observations could just be the spark of change you're looking for.

Simple Abundance, A Daybook of Comfort and Joy has been such a pleasure to read. It adds thoughtful consideration to facets of my life that have been overlooked for some time. I have found that this book has also opened up a dialog between my husband and myself as we read this together every evening before bed. I am learning to simplify my life and finding joy in that. What is left are the things (and parts of myself as well) that are truly precious. Being surrounded by THOSE parts of me, instead of the clutter of negativity, and unneeded STUFF, lets me truly feel the abundance life has to offer.

I was given this book while I was recovering from surgery and found it so comforting and inspiring that I have since purchased it for two friends who are also undergoing hard times with their health or families. It has helped us all to have a more positive outlook. This book has no beginning, and no end. You can read it starting anywhere, and you can read it forever!

More than ten years on, the words of Sarah Ban Breathnach's Simple Abundance still ring true, as they whisper in ear, reminding us to be grateful and gentle with ourselves. Central to Sarah's message is that living a life with gratitude, indulging in small pleasures, and asking for Grace every day will bring miracles to our life.
Sarah Ban Breathnach's wit and wisdom leads the reader gently on a path of self discovery. She doesn't ask you to make any dramatic changes to your life - she simply gives you some suggestions on how to improve the life that you've got.
From the simple delights of a well-organised linen closet, to the process of creating an Illustrated Discovery Journal, Sarah reminds us of what we have always known - that appreciating the simple things in our life will open our eyes to a world of abundance.

Review posted by Zara Stevens (Author - Boy Meets Girl: A Pocketful of Wedding Stories)
Boy Meets Girl: A Pocketful of Wedding Stories

This is kind of okay, but a little fluffy for my tastes. It's sort of a Martha Stewart meets Charmed. If you are looking for a "how-to", this one is kind of like an appetizer before your steak and potato.

This book did nothing for me. A little harder to understand than I thought it would be. There are much better books out there, like The Wicca Bible. Now THAT'S the perfect little book.......

Over the years I have bought several copies of this book. I wore out one, the others all were loaned out and never came back. I figure those folks needed it more than I did at the time. But I always end up buying a new one because my library seems incomplete without it. This is a must have for any solitary and even for those of us in covens. There is much to learn for Mr. Cunningham.

This book is quite excellent and easy to read. It holds up just enough information for the basics the religion Wicca, along with enough advanced point to make the grade with more advanced users of magick. Scott Cunningham's work is amazing and I love him as an author, but he could have don without handing out his BoS in the end of the book, thusly splitting the book in two to most whom only seeking it for references. In the end Scott does provide all the necessary requirements to make this book a definite pick up.

There's a reason why Scott Cunnningham was so well loved in the WIccan community. Out of all the Wiccan books I have read, and there have been many, this one still stands out on my mind as the essential and most direct one. Unlike some other authors, Scott manages to get straight to the point of what Wicca is, spends only enough time telling us what it is not, and making it clear enough for all to understand. While I would not recomend that those who are looking into Wicca stop here, this is by far the perfect starting point.

The only complaints I have are maybe with some of the wording of his rituals. But even he suggests we write our own rituals, making his merely examples.

Also I suggest all potential Wiccans read and understand Gerald Gardners "Witchcraft Today" and Doreen Valiente's "Witchcraft for Tomorrow". Always know the history of the Craft so that it does not become diluted and ill-defined.

Blessed Be )O(

A writer of tremendous integrity, Buechner opens the book with an acknowledgment that this is not one of his great novels, but is, in fact a miscellany. It is the stuff from which other material could be developed. Some is reflective, and much is the stuff of his life - the ground from which creativity flows. I enjoyed the book tremendously, because Buechner has always challenged me. Good read, short. I would give it a 5, but that should be reserved for his other works, like Godric, or The Clown in the Belfry.

Frederick Buechner was - and remains - a pioneer in spiritual memoir.

A promising literary light whose works have attracted the attention of even New York's inner circle, Buechner dared to move further and further along his spiritual journey. He admits that his ordination as a Presbyterian minister was a terrible career move for a serious writer. He did it anyway. And, he's not easily categorized as a "Christian writer," either. His memoirs with titles like "Telling Secrets" through "The Longing for Home" are almost impossible to classify with our oh-so-easy labels of "evangelical" or "emergent," "progressive" or "conservative." He wrote them, anyway, and they found a loyal audience of thousands. Over time, his books have formed one the great spiritual reflections on life in turn-of-the-millennium America.

A clear theme emerges in these more than 30 volumes of memoir, fiction and nonfiction - a clear character to the relationship Buechner has been building with us. His overarching theology of writing goes something like this: Fundamentally, he argues in one book after another, we tell our stories because we have a deep yearning to participate in a far greater story. Whatever terrible secrets we think we are concealing, we soon discover that they weave themselves into a far, far larger narrative. And, in telling those stories, ultimately, we find ourselves in a community not only with other storytellers, but with the ultimate Storyteller.

That's why you should buy and read "Yellow Leaves." If you flip through it in a bookstore, you might mistake this slim volume for a late-in-life after thought. You would be mistaken. Within these 133 pages are some of the "yellow leaves" left toward the end of the season - vividly hanging from the limbs in Buechner's garden. In his mid-80s now, his reflections aren't the brawling spiritual wrestling match of "Godric" or the grand literary feat of "Bebb" or even the moving dramas of "Telling Secrets" or "Longing for Home."

These are last leaves. And what leaves they are! In this volume, Buechner gives us the spiritual gem of his catalytic evening with Maya Angelou; then he waves a wand and takes us with him back into Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol;" then another wave and we're attending a 1943 family picnic where he nervously gets to his feet as a boy and dares to read a poem and speak "simple truth." And, of course, the greatest spiritual gem in the book - the one-page Introduction of a memoirist now in his mid-80s, invoking Shakespeare's own "yellow leaves."

After all these years, Buechner fans, you can't miss this one. And newcomers? Here's a sparkling, multi-faceted showcase of this master's eye, ear - and heart.

the number of people on this planet who can write like frederick buechner are a tiny, tiny lot. seriously, the dude can put some words into sentences! so, in a sense, i don't care what buechner writes about -- i'll read it, and enjoy it. fiction -- yup. non-fiction -- sure, bring it.

the beek (ah, that's my little pet name for him) hasn't written a full length book in a while. and, as he writes in the forward of this collection, he guesses that ability has left him (i sure hope that isn't true). in the mean time, buechner says he could pull together a collection of essays, scraps of fiction, poems, and family memories, with a sprinkling of faith and church thrown in. somehow, it works.

the best parts of this collection, in my opinion, are the first few pieces -- little memoirs about family members (buechner's mom and brother-in-law, in particular). the whole thing is a bit voyeuristic, looking into a period of time and slice of society that is not my own. buechner comes from east coast, private school, intelligencia, with old money thrown in (buechner's wife is heir to the merck fortune, and his own family, while experiencing some rough times during the depression, did pretty well).

reading often felt a bit like sitting with mr. b in an old but fancy sitting room, somewhere in an old money neighborhood in new england, listening to him tell stories while sipping tea. with milk.

it's a quick read, really, but just lovely. intimate and brilliant.

Book arrived Good Condition,
Took a Week For Delivery, bit longer than Amazon Delivery Takes!
Diane Cogswell, Mill Valley CA

I found this as with all NDW's books just what I needed and wanted.
Thank you so much.

I must admit I would like to think it is possible to be "Happier Than God". I am certainly not there, but I understand I'm my own worst enemy. I enjoyed it so much I read it twice. I would highly recommend it to those looking to enrich their lives.

Takes a moment to set the framework
Has a clear and defined message concerning the nature of attraction
Like most the juxtaposition of law of opposites and the weaving of the law of one

I am often referred to at my church as the irreverent reverend. I say things that shock people. Things like "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Blessed is he who just comes..." Most people laugh. Maybe it's out of nervousness, I don't know, but I really, really, really think that God has just an incredible sense of humor and I really, really, really think that anyone who does "God's Work" must also have a sense of humor. Kinduv like that old joke:

Why do angels have wings?

Because they take themselves lightly.

I've always enjoyed Neale Donald Walsch's books. He's very presumptious about a lot of things. He basically says that all who are reading this book (Happier Than God) caused it to happen.

What?

You caused it to happen. You. You had an impulse and you acted on that impulse. And not only did you cause this book to appear in your life, but you have caused everything that is in your life at this very moment to appear in your life...including me. And guess what? I caused you to appear in my life, as well.

Of course, this is a book by a man who "claimed" to have had more than a few Conversations with God....

Blasphemer!
Heretic!
Liar!

Brave is what I would call him.

He is challenging which is exactly why one should read him. Like I said, I've read his books since the very beginning and no matter how many times I read his stuff I get new insights. Not because Neale is giving them to me, but because, once again, I caused it to happen. I was ready for it.

What's that great line from Henry the V?

All things be ready if the mind be so.

Some people aren't ready for this kind of stuff. It doesn't mean that one is stupid or ignorant or foolish, they're just not ready for it. A lot of people weren't ready for what Jesus had to say, either. I'm not comparing Neale Donald Walsch to Jesus by any means, but just like the quote he uses from George Bernard Shaw:

All great truths start as blasphemies.

We'd like to say that if we were in Jesus' time or Buddha's time or Socrates time, we follow them anywhere to learn from them. But would we? We like to cling to our old beliefs, our ideas, our opinions.That's why our lives don't seem to change very much --- because we don't change!

He says "We do not need God for anything." Now before you get your knickers in a bunch, he states in the next page (if you stll have the book in your hands), "Not needing God is not the same as not having any use for God..."

And then he quotes scripture, which I agree with some of the reviewers in that he should've cited the passage, "I am with you always, even until the end of time..." (Matthew 28:20)

Do we believe this? No, we don't...but people, that's a promise straight from Scripture. We aren't alone in this. In Truth we are all-one in this.
Being happy, feeling fulfilled, experiencing joy doesn't come from everyone believing exactly the same thing. That would be so dull. Real Joy...being really happy comes from letting people be who they need to be.

There are a lot of people who walk around as if their underwear were on backwards. Come on, people...lighten up. Like that really old joke,

Why do dogs lick themselves?
Because they can...

You can be happy because God created you that way already.

Peace & Blessings,
john, 'the Light Coach'

Deepak does it again......this time with a lot of humor.
Life is supposed to be fun and easy.....we just forgot and made it complicated. Curl up with this book for a few good belly laughs and learn how to bring more joy and ease into your life. Enjoy!

What do you get when you put Deepak Chopra and Mike Meyers in the same room? A book full of laughs, gags, and punch lines that's punctuated with meaning and direction. While the character story for the first part of the book is interesting, it is Mr. Chopra's ability to show you the path of joy and optimism in clear understandable language that really shines. It's so enjoyable I re-read that section three times! In good times or bad this is worth the time and effort to read and enjoy!

I picked up this book with high hopes. I generally like Chopra's work, although I am not a hard-core fan, and I love to laugh. I also believe humour is a key companion to spiritual growth - when you can laugh at yourself, you probably have hit on some self-truth. And Mike Myer's Foreword seemed to be heading in the right direction, quoting Lenny Bruce's equation for comedy as "laughter = pain + time", and noting that Chopra would call the 'plus time' detachment. Enlightenment and comedy share that in common.

Unfortunately Why is God Laughing? doesn't quite follow-through on its promise, although it has some nice moments. The main problem for me is that the book seems more like an outline, and a derivative one at that. It doesn't evoke any powerful emotions, because we don't have enough time with the main character, Mickey, to feel invested in him. The entire book feels rushed, more like a premise for hitting certain spiritual points, chapter by chapter. These points, or lessons, drive the book's progression more than the character's inner growth. This is often a problem when non-fiction writers cross over to fiction, but I thought Chopra had solved it after his last fiction effort, Buddha: A Story of Enlightenment (recently released in paperback, and which I highly recommend.)

Chopra's epilogue is interesting, as he lays out his own ideas on how to embrace joy and optimism while living in a scary, fear-based culture. If the story doesn't grab you, you can always jump straight to the epilogue for a good Chopra fix. The bottom line is, the themes of this book are true to his usual message, and clearly presented - it just doesn't work as a novel. So you probably won't be deeply disappointed, but you won't be deeply moved either. If you don't want to risk it, just buy Buddha: A Story of Enlightenment instead.

For my full review, go to [...]

Product was received in great condition. Book is a very insightful, quick read for Deepak Chopra.

I consider myself a pretty enlightened person. This book helped me remember some fondamental points of life. Even though it wasn't rolling on the floor funny I did get a couple of chuckles from it. Some people are disillusioned in thinking this is meant to be enlightened standup comedy. The fact that a comedian can read this book and want to give a foreword to encourage others to read it is inspiring in itself. The story line keeps you interested and makes you re-examine your life and your stand on what you thought your life should be versus what others have told you it should be. Are you living your life for the experience itself or to appease the people around?

A true to life and feel good book you want your children to read. A great family book. Parris Martin

I debated whether to write a review or not - as a Patriot's and Sox's fan.
Well, I think the book is pretty good. It is a simple life story that could have happened to many kids, and maybe many adults too - not knowing their purpose in life.
As the book tells us:
Be free to dream,
Have faith, and
God will answer in HIS most magical way.

I must admit that I have a great admiration for Coach Dungy's coaching style. This book translates the warm compassion and support for success into a children's book. The word and the illustrations are touching and inspire faith and the search to find one's calling. My granddaughter thoroughly enjoys this book. As does Grandpa who is a big NFL fan.

You Can Do It! YES, You Can! Tony helps guide his little brother, Linden, to determine his dream. Tony follows the example of his parents by putting faith, self-reflection, along with the love and support of family to the test. Even though Linden acts up at school (sometimes) the positive reinforcement from his devoted family helps him see God's plan for his life. As Linden discovered his dream and when he did the support of positive community leaders and his family made all the difference.

This Christian based book was written for children ages 4-8. However, this inspirational story can be enjoyed by young old alike. The remarkable illustrations will provide hours of enjoyment for the kids in any household - especially young African American boys. There are several points in the book that should have everyday occurrences in households across America - committed families, prayer at dinner, active in sports, and striving daily towards a dream. Share this fantastic story with kids and help them achieve their dreams - whatever they may be.

Deltareviewer

There is a sweetness to this illustrated storybook about a young boy whose siblings all know what their passion is, but he doesn't know his. This book is best for kids unsure of what they want to be when they grow up. That description fits almost everyone! When young Linden feels anxious that he hasn't found his niche, readers will undoubtedly relate.

Linden's older brother Tony and scientist dad gently help him search for his "it," his passion. They remind him to have patience and trust in God to reveal this special talent. "Just keep having faith," Dad tells Linden. The boy finds his "it" during a trip to the dentist.

This true story was written by the head coach of the 2006 Super Bowl champions.

Expressive watercolors fill the pages with color from edge to edge. The loving African-American family is realistically rendered. Illustrator Amy June Bates has a knack for showing movement and action, and depicting real people.

Under the dust jacket the cover has the exact same artwork on the front and photo of Tony Dungy on the back.

I have read hundreds of Christian Apologetics books. I have read all of Lewis, all of Schaeffer, all of Peter Kreeft, all of Dr. Geisler's books, including his encyclopedia A-Z twice, and his Systematic Theology twice, I have read Plantinga, McDowell, Craig, Ravi, Moreland, Holding, Swinburne, N.T Wright, Paul Copan, R.C Sproul, Van Til, Gary Habermas, Lee Strobel, David Noebel, Francis Beckwith, Chuck Colson, Nancy Pearcy, Chesterton, Stuart C. Hacket, Martin, Richard Purtill, Stephen T. Davis, Dembski, Behe, Johnson, Collins, Paul K Moser, and many other Christian Philosophers and theologians . I have also read all the top skeptic authors, so I am pretty familar with worldview issues, and the arguments and counter-arguments from both sides. I cant imagine why someone would say this book is not worth reading, unless there either uninformed or have some axe to grind. I would take the word of both top Christian Philosophers and Skeptics that endorse this book before I would listen to some disgruntled person reviewing on here(who I suspect has not even read the book). There must be something very admirable about a book that can be granted endorsements form both sides! Here is what Dr. Geisler( who is considered the DEAN of Christian apologetics, and wrote the Christian Encyclopedia of Apologetics, along with 70 other books) said along with some other High Caliber Christian Thinkers.

Dr. Norman L. Geisler, Christian apologist and author of The Baker Encyclopedia of Christian Apologetics: "[John's book] is a thoughtful and intellectually challenging work, presenting arguments that every honest theist and Christian should face."

Dr. Mark D. Linville, Christian philosopher and contributor to the forthcoming Blackwell Companion to Natural Theology: "Of the spate of books coming from the so-called "New Atheists" that have appeared in the past few years--Hitchens, Dawkins, Harris, et al--John W. Loftus's critique of Christian theism is by far the most sophisticated. Where, say, Dawkins might be found attacking a man of straw, Loftus understands and assesses the arguments of today's premier Christian apologists and philosophers. Evangelicals cannot afford to ignore Why I Became an Atheist."

Dr. James F. Sennett, Christian philosopher and author of Modality, Probability, and Rationality: A Critical Examination of Alvin Plantinga's Philosophy: "Scholarly unbelief is far more sophisticated, far more defensible than any of us would like to believe. John W. Loftus is a scholar and a former Christian who was overwhelmed by that sophistication. His story is a wake up call to the church: it's time for us to start living in, and speaking to, the real world."

And Here are some endorsements from skeptics.

David Mills, author of Atheist Universe: "John W. Loftus is to atheism what Tiger Woods is to golf, or what Babe Ruth was to baseball. Loftus has provided, in this superb and entertaining volume, the crown jewel of the new atheist movement. As much as I admire and enjoy Dawkins, Harris, Hitchens and Dennett, Loftus is, far and away, my favorite author on this riveting subject. Loftus' esteemed reputation within the freethought community is indeed richly deserved. But this book exceeded even my highest expectations."

Dr. Michael Shermer, Publisher of Skeptic magazine, and the author of How We Believe, The Science of Good and Evil, and Why Darwin Matters. "There is trend sweeping American culture today on the God question, with commentators on all sides ringing in with their opinions and theories about whether God exists or not, the origins of morality with or without God, and the origins and importance of religion. What is unique about John W. Loftus's book is his perspective: a one time Christian apologist who changed his mind and became an atheist. Here we get both sides of the debate between two covers, an honest and honorable look into the soul of belief and what it means to be a nonbeliever."

Dr. Hector Avalos, Biblical scholar and author of The End of Biblical Studies: "I truly enjoyed this book. Why I Became an Atheist combines a dose of Augustine's Confessions with a cauldron of unremitting rationalism to yield one of the most potent antidotes to Christianity on the market today. If there is such a thing as the New Atheism, then John W. Loftus is one of the standard bearers. Loftus is a former Christian evangelical apologist who became an atheist, and he tells us why in a detail and a depth worthy of the best atheist writers today. It is a well-written, informed, and potent critique of religion and Christianity."

Dr. John Beversluis, author of C.S. Lewis and the Search for Rational Religion: "Christians routinely dismiss objections advanced by skeptics on the ground that they are outsiders who are not in a position to understand the doctrines they presume to criticize. Nobody can say that about John W. Loftus. As an ex-pastor and Christian apologist, he understands these doctrines from the inside and is able to expose the logical flaws of the arguments offered in support of them--textual, scientific, theological, and philosophical--with luminous clarity and devastating force. His scholarship is impressive, but he also knows how to write in a way that engages the non-scholarly reader. The result is a startlingly honest book that ought to be required reading for every Christian."


So according to top thinkers on Both sides, people who say this book is not worth reading are dead wrong. You decide who to believe.



I think this book is the best single overall refutation of Christianity written, especially at the accessible level. The book Loftus wrote before this one, was the first skeptic book I read that made me realize I could be dead wrong, and I was a very intellectually committed Christian, trust me. I was planning on becoming an Apologist myself. This new book is like his old book but on major steriods! Loftus has added an extra 240 pages of content! I think this book is superior for multiple reasons

1. Its scope and coverage is more exhaustive on issues crucial to Christianity then other books.
2. Mr. Loftus anticipate objections from Christian philosophers and theologians that most skeptics do not, due to their lack of familiarity with the other side.
3. The book packs so much in such a little space, it has amazing brevity and at the same time brilliantly dismantles many core Christian beliefs and deals with many central issues that are left out of other works
4. The authors familiarity with Christian Theology and philosophy makes him much better at drawing fine and important distinctions that other skeptics miss, due to their lack of expertise of the other side.
5. The personal Deconversion narrative woven through out the book gives it an informal and personal touch that makes it more fascinating to read than other skeptical books. Plus he is the only skeptical author that I know of that was a highly competent Christian Apologist and Philosopher, this of course is another unique feature.
6. The authors non-abrasive style sets your book apart from many other skeptic books. He wrote the book in such a way as not to polarize the believer. The average believer would be much more likely to read this book than other similar books due to his respectful manner. This I congratulate him on.
7. The book strikes a great balance between high conceptual content and accessibility, a balance that is hard to achieve.

There are many other noble things about his book. But basically what I am saying is that I think Mr. Loftus has written by far the best single overall refutation of Christianity in print! This is the best book to give to a believer. If I could only pick one book for my Christian friends to read, this book by far wins, no contest. If your a skeptic you should buy multiple copies for your friends and family, and if your a believer you should do yourself a favor and buy copies for yourself and your friends and start honestly examining the claims of Christianity from both sides. If your wise you will buy and read this outstanding book! I give it my highest recommendation.

This is the book I wish I could write. Loftus includes everything: absurdities, superstitions, interpretations, persuasive psychology, pseudoscience, morality, philosophy, proofs, logistical issues, history, miracles, methodology, prayer, creation, canonization, legendary embellishment, etc. Whereas pop writers like Dawkins and Harris scoff at the obvious stupidity of Christianity, and textual scholars like Ehrman and Price focus on apologetic issues without hardly mentioning that Christianity doesn't deserve the air of respectability it gets, Loftus tackles both methods with full force.

John does a wonderful job of pointing out how apologists are all extremely confident of their positions even if the contrast among one another, yet he also doesn't lose sight of the fact that a neutral start for these apologists would never prompt them to offer their conclusions. It is probably the best comprehensive book of the issues I've read. Fifteen dollars will net you fifteen hours worth of intense reading. Yes, ninety percent of the material can be found elsewhere, but this is to be expected when there is no true point of concentration in the book, such as you would find with a book that deals with one specific topic. It is a jack of all trades, and Loftus pulls it off beautifully.

Loftus, like very few writers, takes the time to explain why we start our observations "from below" rather than "from above." Persuasive psychology is briefly mentioned, and since I write on it frequently, I was extremely happy to see it (even if I would have liked to have seen more). What I really support is his focus on fundamental questions, which I believe deconvert more individuals than textual analysis ever could. These questions include why God needs worship, why religions distribute predictably, and why the Bible has no declaration against slavery. I also learned a few things while reading, such as William Lane Craig's ridiculous arguments for why God has religious diversity (while ignoring the obvious answer of societal conditioning) and Francesco Sizzi's equally ridiculous arguments for divinity in space.

While ninety-nine percent of this book is fantastic and I could write pages on how great it is, in the interest in balancing praise with criticism, I'll quickly point out a few things I would have done differently. The personal story (kind of boring, until Linda!) could lead critics to argue that John left for emotional reasons (even though he specifically states what should be obvious: the emotions merely got him thinking). The book isn't as entertaining as Shermer, Sagan, Mills, etc or as easy to understand at times because it isn't geared toward a mainstream audience. A thorough understanding of the text is beyond ninety percent of America because you need some good knowledge of the Bible to grasp all of it. For instance, Uzzah is mentioned in one chapter, but several dozens of people and pages later, he is mentioned (but not explained) again. If you don't remember who he is, John's point is missed at the second mention.

Loftus extensively quotes scholars without briefly mentioning their positions, and there are a slew of them because he has a terrific appreciation for the arguments in the field. He also uses terms that will be unfriendly to beginners (e.g. Pauline). John also made the same choice I did in my first book, which is to make laborious lists that aren't necessary to make a point (especially on visions). Most readers, I suspect, would become bored with it. In my opinion, he wastes time and paper on the Trinity and bodily resurrections (two topics that I feel should always be ignored). Arguing over how miracles work plays into the apologetic game. I love his term "chronological snobbery" for why social conservatives are consistently wrong, but it is already known as the "Planck Problem." He says historic Japan is "a great [society] by all standards of history," which I have to take exception with as a student of ancient Japan, since women were possessions, the warrior class could kill without accountability, and foreigners were immediately killed for stepping on Japanese land.

There are some editing issues as well. For example "and1563" on p309 is missing a space (spell check doesn't look for words with number/letter combinations by default) and "when did he know Jesus had died" is used on p368 instead of "how did he know when Jesus had died" (again, something spell check wouldn't grab).

None of these minor issues on which I complain really detracts at all from the book. In short, Loftus has left humanity much better than he found it, which is what all nonbelievers can only strive to accomplish.

The book is well worth the paltry price. While its true there is seldom a new twist to philosophy of religion issues, its also true that a straight forward portrayal of Christian fallacy epitomizes honest exegetical analysis. Loftus categorically excels in describing the many problems with the Christian religion. Thus "Why I Became an Atheist: A Former Preacher Rejects Christianity" is a must read.

I was looking forward to this book after reading about it on an atheist web site. Unfortunately, it was a big let down. The material in the book is far from new. There are a few "new" biblical passages that prove the Bible is nonsense, but little else is new here. I would recommend Biblical Nonsense by Jason Long if your looking for a concise exposition of Christianity. If you have never read any of these types of books then you will most likely be impressed with this one. But if you have even read one of the latest atheist apologists this one will seem like a rehash of those works. It basically repeats the same arguments that have been better crafted by superior writers.

John Loftus's book is heavy in the philosophy and theology of Christianity - including why he rejects it. He outlines and summarizes arguments from both sides - so comprehensively, it could be used as a reference book. A strong point: in the process, he presents superb summary quotes from dozens of important thinkers from our past and present. The book is worth reading, not only for Loftus's words, but for these jewels liberally used in every chapter. My own feeling, however, is that the logical argumentations coming from philosophers and theologians degenerate into mental gymnastics over issues I've already decided are irrelevant. I prefer biblical textual criticism.

In biblical textual criticism I have read various viewpoints stressed by different authors: that the Bible is based on myth, that it is based on midrash, that various authors wrote in order to declare or defend a certain theology, that the Bible should be discounted because different authors' works can't be reconciled with each other, that the document looks exactly like what you would expect from had no God been present, etc. Loftus offers these arguments too, but adds a new twist I haven't seen as a main thrust. He stresses the overwhelmingly superstitious nature of the people of the day and offers a comparison. Even among the least educated people in the US, our worldview is infinitely more scientific than superstitious - when compared to the days of early Christianity. Then he blends in another main thrust - the importance of the worldview a person brings to the table.

Take home point: That a person's worldview, based on his/her cultural and individual milieu, is definitive in the way any religious debate unfolds. What baggage he/she brings to the debate is far more important than the rationale of the arguments, and the single most important factor continues to be, "what is the predominant religion where one is born." This leads Loftus to believe, and I agree, that they're all wrong. Most believers are atheists about every other religion except the one of his/her country of birth. When one rejects just one more religion and his/her mind is settled on the view that God is made in man's image - as opposed to the other way around - the extreme attention Loftus gives to individual issues of theology is not as interesting as it might be otherwise. A good example is the issue of the resurrection.

Loftus gives the issue of resurrection more credence than I would. He gives equal time to theorists advocating resurrection theories varying from complete bodily resurrection (a composite of the various versions in the gospels) to a metaphoric resurrection as attributed (by some) to Paul. Then he concludes with something more reasonable to those of us who think it's all mythology: "Until I experience people bodily rising up from the dead - and why wouldn't God do that once in a while just to show that it's a possibility? - I will continue judging the past by the present...Jesus died on the cross. He did not bodily arise from the grave. His body has rotted away."

I might add that Loftus's personal conversion and de-conversion stories are presented early. It connected with me and will connect with many other readers. "Why I Became an Atheist" is an expansion of a book Loftus wrote a few years ago and a lot of the new material is undoubtedly refined from his blogsite, "Debunking Christianity." I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it even for believers. It would be hard to find another reference with as complete an outline of apologetics for Christianity, even though Loftus gets the last word.

I think this book is great if you want a how-to book on creating things, or a book about how much Mr. Buckland adores himself. In the beginning of the book he said that it was a non-denominational guide, but to be honest, it was closest to Gardnarian or of course, Seax-Wica. He also said that anyone who reads it fully will be a Third Degree. That's all we need is a bunch of 16 year olds telling me how they're Third Degree in Seax-Wicca.
The book was bland and filled with much of "Do whatever feels right to you", but then is countered with "you must not purchase something from a store" or "You must put your altar in the east" in the next sentence. He also gives you a how-to manual on how to create magickal items, but not many of us have circular saws or power sanders, not to mention engravers or etchers. To me, this book was not helpful, and I throughly recommend to anyone that despairs when they read this book to drop it and head to the closest copy of Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner.

Love and Light,
Chicory

Not to much to my taste. None the less, it has a lot of basic information. I would rip out the chapter on demons before giving it to a new witch or impressionable one. I find the chapter on calling up demons disturbing and dangerous. The rest of the book is filled with important information. Buckland is just not my cup of tea. I have his candle magic book and I do adapt some of his rituals. Over all, I would not recommend this except to someone with some time on the path and a good dose of common sense and well grounded.

This book is one of , if not , the best beginner's book I have ever gotten for my library. It not only gives you Witchcraft knowledge , it gives herbology and much more. Please add this to your personal collection , as you will never regret it!!!

This book is not as complete as the title states, but the new expanded edition is much better than the original. Even though this may not be the one and only book you will ever need, it is an essential read, and will compliment any Wiccan or Pagan library.

While I certainly respect Buckland for all he has done for Wicca in the States, this book is definately Gardnerian in thrust, not surprisingly and I felt it was dated, too. The modern Pagan has moved away from some of Buckland's ideas but of you ar4e looking for good general knowledge, this book is handy on the shelf, just not as useful as Ann Maura's books, I felt.

Dr. Myles Munroe is especially Gifted and Called to serve our "today". The Study Guide he authored was led by our Lord and is one of learning the route to a deeper life, experiencing spiritual guidelines for many life changing issues and all is backed with the Word of God. The Study Guide is quite easy to use and any and all should expect spiritual growth when their 40 days are complete.

The "Kingdom Principles Study Guide" is designed as a supplement to Myles Munroe's book "Kingdom Principles" and is made up of 40 lessons to be used over a 40 day period.

Each daily lesson includes: A scripture verse for the day, a daily devotion based on an excerpt taken from the book "Kingdom Principles," several related thought provoking, application questions, and a meditation. These include principles for contemplation, concepts for consideration, and distinctiveness of the Kingdom of God to experience.

I found the devotional thoughts motivational and inspirational, the application questions stimulating and compelling, and the meditations to be rich with a moving, and meaningful focus.

This is an important, comprehensive study guide that will help the reader expand their kingdom living experience as they reflect anew on "Kingdom Principles."

Great study guide about the Kingdom and how God wants us to set up His Kingdom here on earth. God is our King and we are to rule under Him. This 40 day devotional will encourage and enlighten your life.

Great Book and was enlightening because this book helps you understand your place in God's Kingdom. Very inspirational and very good read.

All of the Kingdom books by Myles Munroe are a must for anyone and everyone seeking the truth about the Kingdom of God