Forgiving My Daughter's Killer

Hi again. BookLook Bloggers provided this volume free in return for a review. 

This book is written by the mother whose teenage daughter was murdered by the daughter's teenage boyfriend. Nancy French, a co-writer of various conservative leaning books, helped. We hear the voice of the middle aged mom, who provides a very personal look inside her family and pain (at one point, she even explains her inability to have sex with her husband after the shooting). French also contributed to a Q&A at the end with the killer himself. 

The book is about family, faith and restorative justice. The author and her husband are the co-founders of the Ann Grosmaire (her daughter) "Be the Change" Fund, a charitable fund to promote forgiveness and restorative justice.  This is a form of justice that is based on three principles: crime is the violation of people and of interpersonal relationships, violations create obligations on the part of the offender and the central obligation is to right the wrongs. It fits in with the author's Catholic/Christian faith (her and her husband practicing different forms of Christianity over their lives) as well as being valuable to the victims as well as hopefully those who commit the crimes.  

It is a very good book though obviously hard to read, especially early on when basically it is waiting game for Ann to die (perhaps, this provides everyone a chance to get ready better in some small way).  Early on, though it isn't easy particularly for the father, the parents were open to forgive the killer.  I think the fact they knew him, there was some expectation he would actually marry Ann, factored in here.  Plus, the author (Kate) herself experienced death before -- as a child, her brother accidentally killed someone with their father's gun.  Still, her empathy is remarkable on some level, clearly, though there are other accounts of people who forgave a killer without having a personal connection with them beforehand.  I think some can "relate" with her a bit more on that end. Some might say "I couldn't do this" all the same.

The book tells a remarkable story as well as (without being heavy-handed or let's say overly angelic) talking about her faith through all of this tragedy.  It is well written and overall reads like a novel. 

Feisty and Feminine : A Rallying Cry for Conservative Women

Hi again. BookLook Bloggers provided this volume free in return for a review. 

Let me be honest here. This book is not really a match to my ideological position. But, that is fine -- it's useful to read other points of view. Still, the audience of this book is not me. It basically is for conservative women, the biblical figure of Esther in particular used as a metaphor -- it is a guidebook for conservative women who want to defend their morality courageously or at least out in the open, at times in the face of adversity and criticism. It is not really, from my vantage point, exactly a means to convince the general reader that the conservative viewpoint is correct. The title itself is fair warning. 

I find this somewhat unfortunate. I do think, however, you have to review a book on its own terms, not on the terms you personally wish it to be. On its own terms, the book is pretty good. It is written by the CEO and president of Concerned Women for America, so the tone at times that suggests some average women out there struggling among experts (e.g., when she was a talking head on some t.v. show) is a bit much. Still, the book is written in a down to earth way that touches a range of issues in a way useful for the general reader. To be clear, "conservative" here has a specific Christian focus (well, sure; look at the publisher) and a chapter looks at the Israel issue in that fashion. Likewise, some might have different ideas of what "conservative" really means. 

But, if you want to read a book on the basic point of view of a conservative women, in part to hear the other side, this is a pretty good place to look. I give it an average rating (three stars) since it didn't impress me as superior and felt somewhat stereotypical. Which is fine really, but was a limiting thing. Till next time.

Sister Dear by Laura McNeill

Hi again. BookLook Bloggers provided this volume free in return for a review. So, I received it before the official release date.

The book starts with the last moments of Allie's decade long imprisonment for killing someone who we soon know was a in her mind a travesty of justice. She comes back to try to rebuild her life, her sister (Emma) basically the only one on her side in prison.  Her now teenage daughter (Caroline) has learned to see her aunt as her mother and Caroline's relationship with Allie is in shambles. Allie's father still suspects she did the crime and her mother seems to be trying to keep appearances, not wanting to face up to what happened and is happening.  Meanwhile, the local sheriff has to deal with a sick wife and Emma with the stress of taking care of a teenage niece.  The book provides us with different perspectives in their voices -- Allie, Caroline, Emma and the sheriff too.

I have seen complaint that the last book by the author was not really "Christian" fiction, defined ("Christian novel") by Wikipedia as "a Christian world view in its plot, its characters, or both, or which deals with Christian themes in a positive way." That is rather open-ended, but often is taken to mean a certain conservative type of Christianity as well as requiring a certain lack of offensive language or sex.  This book to me fits the rules -- the basic plot involves redemption, forgiveness and trying to start again while not letting one's situation get you down or let despair win.  But, this isn't really the basic point here. The point is to tell a good story -- in particular, Allie trying to find out the truth.  That works too.

I would give this book an average rating.  The different perspective technique is one I like -- there are various ways to look at a situation, each person has their own way of doing that.  And, stepping into their shoes, looking at things through their eyes, is to me a good way to go.  Plus, the author basically does a good job doing that.  I cared about these characters and believed what was said about them, what they did.  The book itself -- a paperback -- was attractive, easy to read and good as a product.  The explanation of the mystery was believable and things kept our interest as the plot developed -- being purposely vague here.  On the other hand, the book was not that "next level" sort of book -- it was basically workmanlike -- that "wows" me.  I did at times find it plodding.

So, I would recommend this but give it three stars.

Code 13

Hi again. BookLook Bloggers provided this volume (of "The Navy JAG Series") free in return for a review.  As last time, others might be in better stead to review this if they didn't come into this cold. OTOH, there is something to be said to a reader who is coming at this as a stand alone novel.

This is the second volume in "The Navy JAG Series" of novels by Don Brown, who has more than one series for those who like adventure stories with a Christian flavor.  An early tell here is the copyright page with reference to various biblical quotes.  But, the reader can enjoy this as merely an adventure story bouncing around per whatever location we are at the beginning of the new chapter.  

The narration is a bit clunky for my tastes and go tedious soon enough.  The title drop comes soon: "Administrative Law Division (Code 13). The book is topical -- the drone warfare plot device the subject of one or more recent films.  There is action, romance ("her old flame, P.J. MacDonald" etc.) and some appropriate Bible quotes.  The author's own experience in JAG (Judge Advocacy General's) Corps does give things a sense of real life though I'm not knowledgeable enough to judge really.

Didn't really like it.  Two stars. 

black and white bible, black and blue white

Hi again. BookLook Bloggers provided this volume (subtitle: "My Story of Finding Hope after Domestic Abuse," I'm using the capitalization found on the cover here) free in return for a review.  

They specialized in Christian books, including Zondervan publishing. This book is by an author who has wrote for them before. She will be familiar to many, including going by the acknowledgments three unnamed Supreme Court justices who assisted in some fashion. Some will be more familiar with the question posed earlier: "Should marriage be based on a model of mutual submission and equality [her position] or on a model of male headship? Some might also be upset that she does not go into more detail when discussing biblical citations. I found one review that complained about this. 

I don't come at this from the theological background of some readers or the author herself, who has a Ph.D., many books and a long career teaching. So, though I at times did find the biblical snapshots a bit too general, a lack of detailed biblical exegesis did not really upset me. Early on, the author suggested stories, here a biography of her own experiences (with two decades of hindsight from her divorce for perspective), could be most helpful. And, her own story and others (including various biblical and literary lights, including Charles Dickens) is very helpful in that respect. 

The book uses these stories mixed in with a discussion of various angles involved in dealing with domestic violence, focusing on women being the victims.  She overall comes off as a liberal feminist generally speaking but accepts the Bible as is -- e.g., no reference that Timothy is not really "Paul" but Pauline writing written after his death.  She also at one point respects Tipper Gore's concerns over rock lyrics and without context opposes Fifty Shades of Grey. Nonetheless, a person not really biblical orientated could appreciate the book.  It should have a wide readership there.  It helps that it is down to earth, conversational in tone. Again, not reading her past work, don't know if this is a standard style.  It just worked for me. 

I think this was very good but would have appreciated an index. Maybe, that was a cost-saving device. The quotations, including on the Acknowledgment Page (an amusing quirk), worked as well.

I Said Yes

Hi again.  BookLook Bloggers provided this volume free in return for a review. Here you go.

I'm not a fan of the Bachelor or Bachelorette ... at least did not watch either show ... but admit to finding the concept somewhat intriguing.  The mindset of someone who would go on such a show and the chance to provide a behind the scenes look was basically my thoughts when choosing this book.  Looking at her biography and such, she also seemed to be an attractive woman who I was somewhat interested in hearing more about.  To give you a taste on my expectations here.

Early on, a theme was suggested by the author -- she wrote the book with A.J. Gregory who wrote two books (per her website) "which chronicles finding faith in the middle of unavoidable and sometimes harsh realities." -- when Emily admitted to having second thoughts about "saying yes" to a second engagement.  The book in effect is her life story and how she can say "yes," yes to "hoping, dreaming, wishing" again and be satisfied with her choices.

This book is not just a story of her experiences on reality programming though that is eventually handled.  This should be kept in mind if you choose this book.  Some have noted this -- they were disappointed with the amount of time spent on her early years and family life.  But, the book is about Emily Maynard Johnson, not "Emily, reality t.v. star."  And, this is seen in the book as a whole -- it is a very person book.  It if anything overuses the word "I," actually.  The personal is a plus in the book, since you get a sense of the person and it feels real. 

Let me summarize my feelings on the book as a whole.  Overall, it was a pleasant book, easy to read and regarding a subject with a deep enough biography (including some tragedy) to warrant a biography.  Her struggles, keep the faith (multiple biblical references) and success story in finding the "real deal" to be happy with shows how a Christian reader will appreciate this story. Honestly, some might be turned off by us of a reality show to obtain a mate, which might be deemed wrong. I was somewhat disappointed the chapters on her experience there did not go in more detail, but it is good to get her perspective on that point as well.  Finally, honestly, at thirty years old, her life is obviously only in the first stage.  I prefer biographies that cover more ground there.

Basically, it was a middle of the road read, good for what it was.  I would give it three stars out of five.  Till next time!

The Garden Gate

I have not reviewed something for a while but by chance saw a reference to Book Look and decided to return to the fold.  To move to a new book, I first have to handle this one.  The book was provided to me free and in return am obligated merely to provide my opinion.  It is my own alone.

Okay.  This book is apparently part of a series, one I'm not familiar with, so perhaps reading it cold is not ideal. But, it also provides a different perspective as well.  Overall, the book is written in the point of view of a young woman and her experience with the spirit world, particularly angels. This book specifcally focuses on Prissie's saying good bye to her angel friend Koji, as well as the further development of her friendship with the young man Ransom. The most interesting story line with in the book is the interactions with Adin, a fallen angel that has been tormenting Prissie for some time.

I think that I would have liked it better if I read it from the beginning of the series.  Nonetheless, overall, it was a decent read.  Average basically thus the three stars.

Heaven and Hell: Are They Real?

Other than a word somewhat more distaste, "hell" is a ready-made curse word with a variety of uses. As noted by this book, perhaps overused. Its use as a generic curse word leads us to lose a full understanding and respect of what we mean by this term. And, it's opposite number -- heaven.

The book is a series of short chapters posing and answering various questions regarding heaven and hell (what are they like? do animals go to heaven? will we meet family members there? what does the Bible say about them? etc.). It also has a few pictures, mostly of a medieval art flavor and some pages that provide summaries (e.g., various quotations in the Bible). There is also a "further thought" for each section.

The book overall is down to earth/colloquial in tone, hopeful but not overly Pollyanna in nature. That is, the book argues that there is a heaven and a hell, so things won't all be charming for everyone. But, for those who follow the right path, particularly have faith and belief in Jesus, a great happiness will occur for them. The sections are short enough for easy reading for single prayer sessions or for individual study. The paperback further makes it a convenient book to have and use, slip in your bag to read on the bus or train. The sections favor excerpts from other works along with a few thoughts from the author, not always totally sure of what is what -- a good sensible approach. Nothing too deep, but pretty good of its kind. I would recommend it to those who like this sort of thing.

BookLook Bloggers provided this volume free in return for a review.

First Born

This is an intriguing fantasy that has something to say about gender dynamics.

Tiadone, the narrator (in first person present tense -- we are told things as they are happening), is a girl raised as a boy. Why? Well, a first born (thus the title)  girl would have been killed.  This is unfortunately not just a matter of fiction in the world, more so in the not too far past.  The result, and this too suggests the parable qualities of the novel (many could relate about trying to live the life of someone they are not), in problems as she has to struggle against her true nature.  Particularly as she comes of age, including as feminine traits/strengthens come out.

The book takes place in a dystopian age in tribal conditions and a whole different world is colorfully drawn for the reader. I would recommend it for readers who like fantasy and science fiction, especially strong female characters.  The ending suggests a sequel or series is in the works. 

BookLook Bloggers provided this book in return for a review.  The opinions are my own.

No Cape Required - A Devotional : 52 Ways to Unleash Your Inner Hero

The Bible is filled with stories that provide lessons for our daily lives. Jesus particularly saw the value of using stories, parables, to promote a lesson.  It is helpful and often fun way to educate. A primary way this is done are sagas of various "heroes" from Abraham to David and beyond.  At the same time, other cultures also had their own heroes -- like found in the Iliad or Romulus and Remus.  And, trend continued over the centuries, to modern times, now often in television and movies.

And, this is the subject of this book. It uses heroes in works like Star Trek or The Hunger Games to provide short lessons on subjects like charity, justice, hope in others, mentoring, wisdom, bravery and so on.  Let's take an example. Robin Hood is used to discuss charity.  We start with a biblical quote and then the hero's place in literature and cultural history is discussed. Then, we return to a biblical connection, given a prayer to use and examples of how to be charitable in your everyday life. Nothing profound, but especially for those who like movies and the like, it is a good way to use popular culture to teach lessons.  And, there are a lot of examples provided, at least some of which will appeal to many of the readers.

It is a creative idea done fairly well. The video is not quite connected to the book but seemed catchy.

Note: This book was given to me free by Book Sneeze [now BookLook]  in return for this review.

Running Lean

1) A term referring to a deficiency of fuel in the fuel-to-air ratio of an internal combustion engine. (2) A physical condition where not enough caloric fuel is present for optimal performance of the body. (3) A spiritual condition in which a believer relies on his own strengths.

The title of this first effort at teen fiction (novel form) is a metaphor. The male lead character (like the author -- write what you know!) is into bikes. Calvin is part of a large family and is struggling to get over the death of his older brother (and mentor) in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, his girlfriend (into manga -- again, like the author) -- who is his first real girlfriend and seemed to be the only one who really understood what he was feeling as he dealt with the death -- has serious problems of her own. Stacey has anorexia. This is flagged as a possibility in the first few pages by a friend of Calvin, but it takes much longer for him to truly face things and figure out what to do.

The book has some clear positives. We get a good sense of what the two characters are thinking, their inner monologues. The author provides two complete characters and their parallel stories along with some other supporting casts. I like books that provide such alternative points of view. The book also shows us how people can be basically good people and well meaning, but still not understand and/or do the right thing in various cases. The importance of truly supporting another person, even if you don't fully understand yet what is going on or know what exactly to do is true enough. Issues of God and spirit also show up, including early on with Calvin's best friend. Church going even played a role in them first going out. The author expresses her religious beliefs on her website for those interested.

I have to give it a mixed review though since the book felt too drawn out. The friend so early on bringing up "anorexia" was a bit of a misstep -- the warning signs were there from the beginning and it was a bit too soon to say that. After saying it, having over three hundred pages of text seemed a bit much. It seemed too drawn out to me. Mention was made by some about the clueless parents. That happens and the author noted one place (in answer to an online review) that it was partially a plot device -- you cannot have the parent serve as a sort of "deus ex machina" and end the story. I'm not really upset about that. I do think the book could have been shorter. Another concern for some was the nature of Stacey. Was she too clingy or needy? Well, yes, she had some issues -- anorexia grows out of such things. As to why Calvin stays, I think that is explained some -- she was there for him, he feels a special obligation to someone he loves (this might have religious overtones) and the same sense of hyper-order that she feels compelled to use to keep sane in some fashion helps to put an order to HIS life. This sort of complexity adds to the story.

Overall, it was a serious look at major issues for teens today, including the economic issues that Calvin had to deal with. It was overlong but was a promising first effort.

I obtained this book from Book Sneeze in return for this review.

Once-a-Day Country Faith Devotional

I obtained this book free from Book Sneeze in return for providing a review.

Was overall impressed with this book. It is in effect a bible quotation book that does what the title says -- provide reflections from fifty-six leading country music stars on their favorite biblical quote. The basic format: a nice glossy picture of the star(s) in question, the quote and a short discourse on what the quotation means to them. Nothing profound but a nice way to examine the Bible in a good looking package. The book also includes the Gospel of Mark.

The title is a bit curious in that it is not really "once a day" since we just have the fifty-six reflections. The Book of Mark is provided perhaps because it is the shortest gospel. The aim is to help the reader pick their own favorite passage and this suggests a certain Christian focus. But, the verses chosen are from both testaments of the Christian Bible.

Dear Mr. Knightley: A Novel

Jane Austen in Northanger Abbey noted that a novel is "some work in which the greatest powers of the mind are displayed, in which the most thorough knowledge of human nature, the happiest delineation of its varieties, the liveliest effusions of wit and humour, are conveyed to the world in the best-chosen language.”

This along with the pleasure so many have reading them has led her own books to inspire a range of volumes as well (and at least one movie, Clueless). A book referencing a character from Austen's Emma suggests this too is one of that character. Mixing in a bit of a Dickens touch, this tale is about an orphan who gets a chance to Northwestern University’s prestigious Medill School of Journalism via scholarship. In return, she has to write to her beneficator, who is going by, yes, Mr. Knightley. Shades of "The Education of Samantha Moore." It's a nice device though extensive epistolary novels (letters) do personally bore me after awhile. The importance here is the nature of the character and the interest held in their stories. Here, we see the development of Ms Moore's character, which as Austen fans know, is a key theme in her novels as well.

Others note that this seems to be in the style of an old novel, but really -- lots of things are modeled on other things. We need to judge the book itself, not how it stands against some novel from when the Titanic went down (in real life!). On that level, it's a pretty good read. Judge for yourself.

This book was obtained free from Book Sneeze in return for this review.

Sweet Olive

Matt Damon recently starred in a movie called "Promised Land" in which he played someone whose job it is to get people to agree to sell the rights of their land so his firm can use it for fracking (hydraulic fracturing, or a process where highly pressurized water, sand, and chemicals are are injected into wells, where they break apart rock containing natural gas). He goes to "the heartland," so to speak, to do this, but has a change of heart.

The heroine of this book, Camille Gardner, has a job somewhat similar -- to convince landowners to lease their land to gas and oil companies to drill wells to extract the gas and oil. She too, if not exactly for the same reasons, runs into complication too. Turns out that Camille doesn't really want to be in this line of work. Her passion is art and dreams about owning an art gallery. So, when she feels obligated to take one more job to negotiate new land deals from a group of artists in Sweet Olive, well, trouble brewing is no surprise. She starts to fall in love with the community and the locals ... the book provides a sort of paean to small town life and the "important things in life." And, if one is wondering where Book Sneeze -- who gave me a complimentary copy for this review -- comes in, yes, we also come to see how Camille has to turn to God to direct her path professionally and personally in order for her to do what is right.

Jane Austen in "Northanger Abbey" noted that a novel is "some work in which the greatest powers of the mind are displayed, in which the most thorough knowledge of human nature, the happiest delineation of its varieties, the liveliest effusions of wit and humour, are conveyed to the world in the best-chosen language.” If that is the test, this one is pretty good.

NIV College Devotional Bible

I first read the Bible some time ago and it has charm straight. But, the full experience requires commentary, background and contemplation. The reader, Christian or not, is well advised to take each into consideration, if they wish to truly understand and enjoy the benefits of the book -- yes, it is the "Holy Book," but this is basic to any great work of literature.  So, it should be here as well.

This Bible is one of many -- there is in effect a cottage industry out there of Bibles geared to various groups. One review thought this might get to the point that things will be watered down:

The NIV Bible is for everyone and to prove it Zondervan will make a version for you. The version differences? You'll get a different cover and a bunch of topically sorted comments/devotions. Do you enjoy the outdoors? Got you covered: NIV Outdoorsman Bible. Are you a young girl? NIV Faithgirlz! Bible, Revised Edition. Teen? NIV Teen Study Bible. Teen guy? NIV Revolution: The Bible for Teen Guys: Updated Edition. Married? NIV Couples' Devotional Bible: New International Version. What if someone in your family is in the military? Even that: NIV New Testament - Military Family (with Psalms): Peace for the Military Family. And a million more.

Oh, I think that a bit unfair though I understand the concern. This copy has the basics, including such things as Table of Weights and Measures and blank pages for journals. It is a pretty attractive copy -- this might be deemed trivial, but if you just want a Bible with no frills at all, would you get this one? -- though the cover is a bit bland. Perhaps, it is intended to look like a college textbook?

The Bible has various lessons intermingled between the readings though they don't really seem consistently geared to students particularly.  There is a little lesson and some questions the answer and think about. It should be noted that this version is Protestant though as a Catholic, I can tell you that the average reader very well might not know the difference though the books of Tobit and Judith are two are of my favorite ones.

Overall, I think the lessons are interesting, but nothing you know, fascinating. So, three stars.

* I received this book for review from Book Sneeze, but this review is my own.

Book Review: Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me: A Memoir…of Sorts

Ian Cron in this memoir shares his experiences growing up with an alcoholic father who is emotionally absent from his family, and physically absent for months at a time because of his work with the CIA.

Cron slips back and forth between the present and the past, telling us his both his father’s story and his own. I am a huge fan of this technique, and it works so well with Cron’s story. Going back and forth allowed me to put the pieces of the story together, and again, a non-linear storyline forces me to really focus on what I’m reading. Cron’s story was interesting and funny enough as it was, but I loved that I couldn’t just speed through it.

And that’s the thing — this book had a great humor to it. Cron had every right and reason to be angry — deception and disease in your family when you are young sometimes leaves you that way — but has made peace with the life he has lived and instead of coming across bitter and angry, he comes across as raw and honest and funny. I couldn’t help but laugh several times throughout the book, and that made his message of God’s goodness and grace and His desire to have a relationship with everyone even more poignant.

This style made the reading that much more receptive to his message. Medicine can use a bit of honey, morality can use a bit of help too.

** This book was obtained for free from Book Sneeze, but this review is my own. 

Lead Me Home

I am not familiar with Stacy Hawkins Adams works or the "Winds of Change" series, but the plot of the book looked intriguing, so took a chance.  One thing that made me check it out was the main character's concern that her role as pastor's wife and mom of some boys was not enough for her, particularly with a successful professional sister.  Whatever the ultimate decision, it is interesting to examine such issues.

To provide a thumbnail sketch of the plot.  Shiloh Griffin is out of sorts, the book starting with a bit of foreshadowing having to do with her having trouble a musical piece. Some "shame" is pressing on her soul as well.  We learn about that later.  First, she volunteers part-time to teach music at a local high school, while some drama is going on at her church, including involving her women's church group. This goes on in the background while something deeper -- that forces her to come clean -- occurs with a student, who finds out that she is pregnant. 

Now, this is a conservative Christian novel, so the "proper" path involving pregnancy is well known.  I won't address how Stacy and the student's situation turned out, but the first few pages of the book should be a pretty good hint on at least one of them.  But, that isn't the only thing that is weighing on Stacy's mind -- she did more than one questionable thing as a teenager with lingering results.  Spoiler here -- I saw no need for her to tell all of this to each member of her family like this, including to her children.  I see the value of coming clean, but at some point, come on. Also, the student's fate was something of a cop-out.

All considered? I thought the writing a bit hackneyed though it kept your interest.  I think it dragged on too long -- it could have been shorter. Didn't agree with certain plot developments, but that is probably a matter of opinion.  Overall, I think it was okay, and if you felt attached to the lead character, you might be a bit more generous with your rating. 


* I received this book free from Book Sneeze, but the opinion is independent of that and the opinion of merely the author of this review.

When Donkeys Talk A Quest to Rediscover the Mystery and Wonder of Christianity

Writer and musician Tyler Blanski takes the reader on a journey to discover what Scripture is tells us.  Is Scripture and Christianity just a collection of nice stories we break out on religious holidays or pithy sayings for bumper sticker or a Christian t-shirt with no real thought or care as to what we just heard or read? That is the issue Blanski addresses in his book, the necessity to recapture the fundamental element of Christianity, the reality of a relationship with God and a passion for His revealed word.

That is take the religion seriously even if sometimes using a down to earth approach.  It’s about exploring the world of Biblical imagery and narrative where donkeys can talk in a world dominated by science and logic and reason that donkeys cannot speak. Blanski may claim to be a humble 29-year-old house painter, but there’s no hiding his academic labors in medieval studies, and so he looks at Christianity through the lens of how people in ancient times understood science and how they understood and practiced faith.

The characters in Blanski’s personal stories  make you say "I feel I know these people." And how can a book which seems so casual — almost random — in its approach to faith also be such a valuable snapshot of church history? As in other cases, the appearance of casual takes work.  Don't be fooled.  He does a good job here. 

* I received this book free from Book Sneeze in return for a review but the content is my own freely posed.