Fearless by Max Lucado

I just read Fearless by Max Lucado and I have to admit, I really didn't like it. I have heard so many rave reviews of Max Lucado's books so I decided to give one a try and I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would. I felt like the thoughts were too scattered and the book lacked the depth that I expected. I did like the overall theme of not allowing fear to overtake your life, but I personally did not feel like the chapters flowed together nor that the ideas came together.

I have heard that some people have absolutely loved the book so if you have enjoyed Max Lucado books in the past, give it a try. But, as my opinion, I read better books over my holidays!

Lift: Becoming a Positive Force in Any Situation

This book, written by Robert E. Quinn (the dad) and Ryan W. Quinn (the son), has become a serious source of inspiration in our family.

Essentially, the book suggests a process to follow that allows you to be more aware of how your actions are either lifting others or bringing them down. Because there is so much technicality to the novel, and lots of step-by-step instructions, I won't try to summarize, but I would SURELY recommend this to anyone who is a parent or employer, or who has influence in any realm of their life.

This would be a great read for the New Year, as it has helped our family to be more conscious of how our actions are helping or hindering others.

Confessions of an Unbalanced Woman by Emily Watts

This short religious inspirational book is worth reading. Emily Watts talks about how she was searching for balance in her life and she attended a time-management seminar to help. She felt so inspired and made a great list of what she wanted to get done and then she prioritized them. In her words, "It helped -- for a little while. But then would come the kind of day (and this happens more often than you would believe) when everything falls apart." She then talks about what she has learned from seeking balance is that there is something more desirable than balance. I think you should read it if you want to learn more. It won't take you long to read the book and you will feel inspired after you read it.