REVIEW: TRUTH & FICTION IN THE DA VINCI CODE

Truth and Fiction in the Da Vinci Code: A Historian Reveals What We Really Know About Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and Constantine by Bart D. Ehrman

I've been looking to read a book that will give me the truths that I knew were missing from Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code. I was cautious, though, as a lot of books out there have been written to back up Mr. Brown's claims.
Earlier this year, I read Bart D. Ehrman's other book, "Lost Christianities". I knew, from reading that book, that this author is a Historian and a Christian. So, upon finding this book, I was thrilled, as I knew I could trust this author to give me the *real* facts!
And, I wasn't disappointed.
A lot of this book is a repetition of what Mr. Ehrman had written in "Lost Christianities", but it is still very good. He debunks Mr. Brown's false claims and gives you the history to back up what he's saying.
Highly recommended.

REVIEW: A SCANDALOUS FREEDOM: The Radical Nature of the Gospel

A Scandalous Freedom by Steve Brown

When I read the review of this book at FaithfulReader.com, I knew I was going to have to read it. I asked my library to order a copy, thinking they wouldn't, but they did! I was thrilled. Mr. Brown writes humorously and in a down-to-earth style. This book was excellent! Most Christians are "so bound...and they can't tell anybody." Christians often fear "stepping out of the box" and going against what's "acceptable" for the greater fear of rejection. Mr. Brown encourages us to take risks, "upset people!", and tell others that we're not perfect...but God loves us anyway! :) An empowering book that's definitely on my wish list to be owned someday!

REVIEW: LOST CHRISTIANITIES: The Battle for Scripture and the Faiths We Never Knew

Lost Christianities by Bart D. Ehrman

I was a little bit afraid, on picking this book up, that it would be a New Age style thing, or that it would conflict with my beliefs (you have to be so careful these days!). As it turns out, it only affirmed my beliefs, and I learned a lot! A great book, with LOTS of history. The easy-to-read, semi-humorous nature of the book made it easy to like, even though the content required a bit of "brain power." :-)

Read the review of this book at FaithfulReader.com.

REVIEW: WALK AWAY THE POUNDS

Walk Away the Pounds by Leslie Sansone

Leslie Sansone has created a great indoor fitness-walking program! The moves are easy and uncomplicated, and they won't do damage to already tender joints and muscles. No more excuses! She encourages you to modify the program to what you need. The book is filled with success stories, and explains how, through using this program, a lot of people have found a way to manage their diabetes, or reduce their risk of heart disease, etc.

Since reading this book, I have bought the videos, and have been "walking away the pounds!" I have tried other programs like Tae Bo, and Latin Dance, and they were all so complicated that I easily gave up. Leslie's program is simple, and fun! I enjoy popping in the tapes and walking with these new "friends"!

Purpose!

I've made up my mind! LOL. I'm going to use this blog for reviews. I'm trying to practice, as I've signed myself up for HarperCollins Canada's new First Look program! So, bear with me, as I'm new at this. :o)