REVIEW: A Woman's Place

A Woman's Place by Lynn Austin

When I first picked up this book, I didn't expect to like it because it's set during war times, and I don't usually care for those stories.

But, Ms. Austin has a way of writing that draws you deeper & deeper into the story and doesn't let you go until the end! So I found myself devouring this book, not wanting to put it down!

Ginny, Rosa, Helen, and Jean all lead normal lives until the start of World War II. Then each of the women feel compelled to do their part for the war by signing up to work as electricians at Stockton Shipyard. Over time, working together brings the four women closer as they share their joys & sorrows.

Ms. Austin used each chapter to focus on one of the four women, telling the story from each one's perspective.

The only problem I had with the book was that some parts of the story seemed unrealistic or rushed (ex. relationships healed/ended too quickly; arguements being, or not being, resolved realistically; etc).

But, I really enjoyed how Ms. Austin weaved Christian truths all throughout the book. And, I found that there were things about each of the four women that I could really relate to ~ things that reminded me of my own life.

Overall, it was a very enjoyable read that I will be happy to recommend to others.

Rated: B+

REVIEW: The Backward Life by Jarrod Jones

The Backward Life: In Pursuit of an Uncommon Faith by Jarrod Jones

When I first read the review of this book on the FaithfulReader.com website, I was intrigued. I had to read this book! So, I checked my local library -- but they didn't have a copy. I asked if they'd order one, and (thank the Lord!) they agreed to do so!

After waiting patiently, the book finally arrived, and I brought it home. I started reading right away... and then found that I couldn't put it down! Right from the very beginning, you are drawn into the stories Jarrod shares from his own life. He then uses those stories to enlighten truths from God's word. In so doing, Jarrod shows you how you can live a life that is "backward" to the world's way of doing things... because we serve a "backward" God.

The back of the book says, "Discover how much fuller your life can be when you revel in living as Jesus taught: giving to gain, losing to win, and turning first and last around."

I especially liked the chapter called "Gloriously Ruined". In it, Jarrod shares a passage from Joni Eareckson Tada's book, "When God Weeps", describing Jesus' crucifixion in a new light. And, let me tell you... I have never been so moved by that story! It really did give me a new perspective!

And, it's the same with so much of this book ... I have come to view a lot of things in a new light, thanks to Mr. Jones!

Some of the other chapter titles are:

• Me, Me, Me


• Will the Real God Please Stand Up?


• God Gone Public


• Backward Loving


• The Backward Mind

I can't recommend this book highly enough ... especially if you feel like you're stuck in a spiritual "rut". It is written in a down-to-earth, friend-to-friend style, with lots of humor thrown in for good measure. But, the truth is powerfully written... you can't help but be changed! ;o)