Clear, concise, interesting, and edifying, this Lutheran guidebook explains the key points of the faith in a simple (but never patronizing) manner. SpClear, concise, interesting, and edifying, this Lutheran guidebook explains the key points of the faith in a simple (but never patronizing) manner. Sprinkled with moments of humor and warmth, and containing personal anecdotes of the author's life, this book has much more of a human connection than many theology texts. It also offers guidance (that is, "tools") that can help Christians understand their faith and live accordingly. Very well thought-out and quite thought-provoking!
Merged review:
Clear, concise, interesting, and edifying, this Lutheran guidebook explains the key points of the faith in a simple (but never patronizing) manner. Sprinkled with moments of humor and warmth, and containing personal anecdotes of the author's life, this book has much more of a human connection than many theology texts. It also offers guidance (that is, "tools") that can help Christians understand their faith and live accordingly. Very well thought-out and quite thought-provoking!...more
A collection of urban legends gleaned from period newspapers. This book would be worth reading for the introduction alone, in which the author describA collection of urban legends gleaned from period newspapers. This book would be worth reading for the introduction alone, in which the author describes the nature of an urban legend and outlines his process for finding and sorting them. The legends themselves range from the ridiculous to the merely implausible to the I-don't-quite-believe-it-but-would-like-to variety. Some of the legends here are physically impossible, and Young takes great pains to explain the science involved and the exact lengths to which it could go. A few of these chapters were a little disturbing in terms of subject matter, but many centered on human interaction, rather than gore, and were ultimately thought-provoking. People interested in print culture, in newspapers, or in urban legends will almost certainly benefit from this, but Simon Young's matter-of-fact style and eclectic topics will likely entertain any reader. A fun book of stories that didn't really happen . . . or did they?...more
Fantastic book, with clear writing and good explanations for the basic tenets of the faith. He does a fine job of explaining things for laymen, and heFantastic book, with clear writing and good explanations for the basic tenets of the faith. He does a fine job of explaining things for laymen, and he does not stray from the topic at hand. The result is a beautiful, concise read that neatly outlines the faith and is full of tremendous insight. I can't say that he fully answered all of my questions, but he answered a great many of them, and he gave me quite a lot to ponder. He has a knack for presenting old information in new ways, yet without abandoning church doctrine. The explanation of justification, given early on in the book, remains one of the loveliest I've ever read. His chapter on the sacraments was likewise enlightening. Highly recommended!...more
Not much depth of information here, but the book's broad scope is sure to entertain many. Full of clear, concise information and a plethora of photogrNot much depth of information here, but the book's broad scope is sure to entertain many. Full of clear, concise information and a plethora of photographs, this book's discussion of specific hoaxes from history will likely have something to intrigue most children. Not all the hoaxes are "creepy"; the one about the Cottingley fairies, for example, is rather cute. Enjoyable for browsing, and still short enough for kids to read it in a single sitting....more
How interesting! This charming book conveys a great deal of information about the country's first bookmobile and the remarkable librarian who made it How interesting! This charming book conveys a great deal of information about the country's first bookmobile and the remarkable librarian who made it possible. Clear and informative—but never condescending—this book can be enjoyed by youth and adults alike. The many photographs included add to the enjoyment....more
Great resource for anyone who leads (or would like to lead) a mystery book discussion. Full of information about successful discussions, examples of uGreat resource for anyone who leads (or would like to lead) a mystery book discussion. Full of information about successful discussions, examples of useful questions, and explanations of some of the unique challenges posed by the mystery genre, this book is sure to enlighten and inspire. A broad list of mysteries is also included, along with a mini discussion guide for each. Terrific tool for any mystery buff!...more