Recap Book Chat
By Recap Book Chat
If you are looking for a place to dive into great books, unpack big ideas, and connect with a community of readers, you made it! My mom, Sheila Barnes has taught and inspired young minds as an elementary teacher for 40+ years. Her passion is reading and it is contagious. My name is Kate Matthews and I am an artist, seeker of wisdom and lifelong student. We decided to start a book club a couple of years ago which has impacted and grown us tremendously. We hope you will join in on the fun and get lost in the magic of reading with us.
Recap Book ChatJun 06, 2024
00:00
25:30
Bonus Bite-“We Take Responsibility” from House Rules by Jacob Hudgins
This attitude of humility, admission, and apology should be learned young, at home. In Christian homes, some phrases should be in regular use: I didn’t know that. I made a mistake. I shouldn’t have said/done that. You’re right.Can you forgive me?I messed up.
In a society that values victimhood, Christian homes must be countercultural.”
Let’s learn Rule #6 — We take responsibility from House Rules by Jacob Hudgins.
What a blessing it is to work on building homes using our Heavenly Father’s blueprint!
Let us learn from David when he humbly confronted God after his sin with Bathsheba, “Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your steadfast love; according to Your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me of my sin! For I know my transgressions and my sin is ever before me. Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight…Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. (Psalm 51:1-10) Powerfully put!
We need to be responsible for our work. We must be like the 5 wise virgins in the parable and work to have a full lamp, no one can do this for us.
We need to be responsible for our actions, no excuses or blaming others, God gives us CHOICE. The disobedience of others doesn’t justify me to act in an ungodly way.
We need to be responsible for our messes. It’s only when we admit our sins that we can grow and heal and be pleasing to our Heavenly Father.
We need to be responsible for what we say. “Taking responsibility starts at home and radiates outward. Without it, we show up to work and resent being asked to do our jobs. We attend local churches and expect others to serve us. We frustrate others…”
Are you ready to join Kate and Sheila for the challenge of taking responsibility? We hope this book has blessed you as much as it has us. Thanks so much for listening! May this recap bonus bite bless you and your family!
In a society that values victimhood, Christian homes must be countercultural.”
Let’s learn Rule #6 — We take responsibility from House Rules by Jacob Hudgins.
What a blessing it is to work on building homes using our Heavenly Father’s blueprint!
Let us learn from David when he humbly confronted God after his sin with Bathsheba, “Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your steadfast love; according to Your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me of my sin! For I know my transgressions and my sin is ever before me. Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight…Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. (Psalm 51:1-10) Powerfully put!
We need to be responsible for our work. We must be like the 5 wise virgins in the parable and work to have a full lamp, no one can do this for us.
We need to be responsible for our actions, no excuses or blaming others, God gives us CHOICE. The disobedience of others doesn’t justify me to act in an ungodly way.
We need to be responsible for our messes. It’s only when we admit our sins that we can grow and heal and be pleasing to our Heavenly Father.
We need to be responsible for what we say. “Taking responsibility starts at home and radiates outward. Without it, we show up to work and resent being asked to do our jobs. We attend local churches and expect others to serve us. We frustrate others…”
Are you ready to join Kate and Sheila for the challenge of taking responsibility? We hope this book has blessed you as much as it has us. Thanks so much for listening! May this recap bonus bite bless you and your family!
Jun 06, 202425:30
Some Kind of Courage by Dan Gemienhart
Mama said that if someone’s putting ugliness into the world, you can’t be ugly back; you gotta put a little bit of sunshine into the world to even things out.” Joseph Johnson, a 12 year old orphan, living in the 1890s lost his mama and little sister to sickness and his papa to an accident. He remembers the lessons his parents taught him as he journeys across the northwest to recover his pony that was sold by an unsavory man that had no right. His pony was the only thing Joseph had left that he loved. As he searches for his pony, he meets a Chinese boy, Ah-Kee, who’s searching for his Papa. Working together the two face many obstacles, from unkind people, to going down the rapids, to helping a woman in labor! They do not give up. His Papa said, “... when there's something that’s got to be done, the thing to do is just buckle down and do it the best you can.”
“There weren’t no point in giving up.” Joseph and Ah-Kee meet trouble head on. What an inspiration for us all! We, like Joseph, can do hard things.
Saddle up with Kate and Sheila as they discuss Some Kind of Courage by Dan Gemienhart. Will Joseph’s quest lead him to his beloved horse? Will Ah-Kee be able to reunite with his father? Happy Reading, dear listeners!
“There weren’t no point in giving up.” Joseph and Ah-Kee meet trouble head on. What an inspiration for us all! We, like Joseph, can do hard things.
Saddle up with Kate and Sheila as they discuss Some Kind of Courage by Dan Gemienhart. Will Joseph’s quest lead him to his beloved horse? Will Ah-Kee be able to reunite with his father? Happy Reading, dear listeners!
Jun 04, 202420:14
Secrets of a Charmed Life by Susan Meissner
Kendra, a 21 year old history major, comes to Cotswold, England to interview Isabel Macfarland, a famous artist on her 93rd birthday. “The cottage was as cozy and inviting as one of Tolkien’s hobbit holes.” Kendra feels a bond with Isabel who says, “We first borns are driven aren't we? We have to be. There is no one leaving bread crumbs for us on the trail ahead.”
Why did Isabel decide to tell her story after decades of secret keeping? Maybe Kendra was chosen because of her belief that…” information is only half of any story about people. Personal experience is the other part.” When the interview begins Isabel interjected,
“I’m not 93 and my name’s not Isabel.”
We are taken back to 1940s London. We meet Emmy, a 15 year old who dreams of designing bridal gowns and her younger sister, Julia, who’s 7, she depends on her sister for everything. Their mum never married and the girls have different dads. Julia’s father visits on occasion but Emmy’s is never mentioned. When Emmy meets Mrs. Crofton, a bridal shop owner, she gets a job and a promise to be introduced to Mrs. Crofton’s nephew, a fashion designer, Emmy thinks she is on her way. But the war has other ideas! Her mum sends Emmy and Julia out of England with all the evacuated children, crushing Emmy’s dreams.
Charlotte is the wonderful woman that opens up her home to the girls. “Thistle House is for people who love and care for one another. We respect one another in this house…We carry one another’s burdens…and hold one another’s hand when the way seems hopeless…”
Believe it or not the Emmy leaves to return to England to meet the fashion designer, Julia discovers her plan and demands to go with her. It was the 7th of September, the day the Blitz began, while Emmy was at her meeting and Julia was waiting at their flat and the girls became separated!
“Fear is worse than pain. Pain is centralized…Fear is heaviness…Fear is not only a leaden foe, but a liar as well.”
Please listen in on Kate and Sheila’s recap on Secrets of a Charmed Life by the tremendously talented Susan Meissner. Happy Reading dear listeners!
Books mentioned:
Dear Mrs. Bird
A Place to Hang the Moon
The Last Bookshop in London
Why did Isabel decide to tell her story after decades of secret keeping? Maybe Kendra was chosen because of her belief that…” information is only half of any story about people. Personal experience is the other part.” When the interview begins Isabel interjected,
“I’m not 93 and my name’s not Isabel.”
We are taken back to 1940s London. We meet Emmy, a 15 year old who dreams of designing bridal gowns and her younger sister, Julia, who’s 7, she depends on her sister for everything. Their mum never married and the girls have different dads. Julia’s father visits on occasion but Emmy’s is never mentioned. When Emmy meets Mrs. Crofton, a bridal shop owner, she gets a job and a promise to be introduced to Mrs. Crofton’s nephew, a fashion designer, Emmy thinks she is on her way. But the war has other ideas! Her mum sends Emmy and Julia out of England with all the evacuated children, crushing Emmy’s dreams.
Charlotte is the wonderful woman that opens up her home to the girls. “Thistle House is for people who love and care for one another. We respect one another in this house…We carry one another’s burdens…and hold one another’s hand when the way seems hopeless…”
Believe it or not the Emmy leaves to return to England to meet the fashion designer, Julia discovers her plan and demands to go with her. It was the 7th of September, the day the Blitz began, while Emmy was at her meeting and Julia was waiting at their flat and the girls became separated!
“Fear is worse than pain. Pain is centralized…Fear is heaviness…Fear is not only a leaden foe, but a liar as well.”
Please listen in on Kate and Sheila’s recap on Secrets of a Charmed Life by the tremendously talented Susan Meissner. Happy Reading dear listeners!
Books mentioned:
Dear Mrs. Bird
A Place to Hang the Moon
The Last Bookshop in London
May 28, 202436:53
A Conversation with Author Jacob Hudgins
What a blessed episode! Join Kate and Sheila as they interview Jacob Hudgins, the author of House Rules, the book we’ve been highlighting on Thursday’s Bonus-Bite episodes. He shares how he came to write the book and what he and his wife have learned on their adventure of parenting children together. We appreciate his dedication to putting God first and writing in a straightforward style that helps us amplify God’s Word in our everyday lives. The title is
House Rules but it could also enrich everything from the workplace to the classroom to Nana and Pop’s place.
Jacob’s books can be purchased on Amazon. He can be contacted at his website,
www.jacobhudgins.com We are so grateful he took the time to be with us today!
His motivation to clarify what was truly important in the Hudgins’ household was inspiring. Each chapter is finally honed and ends with suggestions that (when put into practice) will move us closer to God. We want to let God show us where to draw that line in the sand.
Parenthood, like life, has seasons. Whether we find ourselves in the newness and growth of spring, the heat and energy of summer, the bliss and beauty of fall, or the slowing down and gathering around the fire in winter, we all will be blessed to follow these biblical guidelines within our circle of influence.
Please join us as we meet the author of House Rules, School of Christ, A Year with Jesus and Humility Practice and learn how God has led him and his wife to be intentional on this journey called life.
House Rules but it could also enrich everything from the workplace to the classroom to Nana and Pop’s place.
Jacob’s books can be purchased on Amazon. He can be contacted at his website,
www.jacobhudgins.com We are so grateful he took the time to be with us today!
His motivation to clarify what was truly important in the Hudgins’ household was inspiring. Each chapter is finally honed and ends with suggestions that (when put into practice) will move us closer to God. We want to let God show us where to draw that line in the sand.
Parenthood, like life, has seasons. Whether we find ourselves in the newness and growth of spring, the heat and energy of summer, the bliss and beauty of fall, or the slowing down and gathering around the fire in winter, we all will be blessed to follow these biblical guidelines within our circle of influence.
Please join us as we meet the author of House Rules, School of Christ, A Year with Jesus and Humility Practice and learn how God has led him and his wife to be intentional on this journey called life.
May 21, 202433:17
Bonus Bite- “No Gossip Allowed” from House Rules by Jacob Hudgins
Greetings dear listeners! Please join Kate and Sheila for Rule #5–No Gossip Allowed in Jacob Hudgins’ book, House Rules. We have an enlightening interview with Jacob coming out on Tuesday. We hope you’ll join us! What does God’s Word say about gossip? The Bible uses words like slander, speak evil of, whisperer, reviling, back-biting, busybodies, talebearer, and meddling. Whew! Quite a list! “...blending together the various biblical expressions, gossip is saying bad things about other people to ruin their reputations or condemn them, especially when they are not present.” In Christian homes, there is no gossip allowed, we want to build up not tear down.
Jacob gives different reasons why we gossip, such as: laziness, jealousy, revenge, or for fun.
Gossip is not a victimless vice, it hurts not only the one being thrown under the bus and also the thrower. Is it a lack of gratitude on our part that unleashes the gossiping gargoyle, destroyer of trust and wrecker of relationships (with people and with God)???
Help! Improvement Wanted! “For lack of wood the fire goes out…” Prov 26:20
Let’s start with us-Be aware. What are my intentions? “The fact that I know something doesn’t mean I have to say it.”
Ask bold clarifying questions-”Is that what they said or just what you heard?
Push back with compassion and understanding-”break the self-centeredness cycle”
Complimenting the victim can change the tone.
Use caution at home not to take the bridle off our tongues, or as Kate said, “Never put stretchy pants on the tongue” Bahaha! We must strive to build and create (like our Heavenly Father) instead of destroy and distort.
We thank you for striving to be intentional with us as we journey toward knowing God better!
Happy Growing and Reading!!!
Jacob gives different reasons why we gossip, such as: laziness, jealousy, revenge, or for fun.
Gossip is not a victimless vice, it hurts not only the one being thrown under the bus and also the thrower. Is it a lack of gratitude on our part that unleashes the gossiping gargoyle, destroyer of trust and wrecker of relationships (with people and with God)???
Help! Improvement Wanted! “For lack of wood the fire goes out…” Prov 26:20
Let’s start with us-Be aware. What are my intentions? “The fact that I know something doesn’t mean I have to say it.”
Ask bold clarifying questions-”Is that what they said or just what you heard?
Push back with compassion and understanding-”break the self-centeredness cycle”
Complimenting the victim can change the tone.
Use caution at home not to take the bridle off our tongues, or as Kate said, “Never put stretchy pants on the tongue” Bahaha! We must strive to build and create (like our Heavenly Father) instead of destroy and distort.
We thank you for striving to be intentional with us as we journey toward knowing God better!
Happy Growing and Reading!!!
May 16, 202416:49
The Horse and His Boy by C.S. Lewis
The Horse and His Boy is book #3 in C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia timeline. Readers meet Bree, a powerful and confident war horse, whose homeland is Narnia, hence the reason he can speak to Shasta, a poor fisherman’s boy, on the brink of being sold into slavery. Bree convinces him to escape. When Bree finds out Shasta can’t ride he asks him if he can fall. “I suppose anyone can fall,” said Shasta. “I mean can you fall and get up again without crying and mount again and fall again and yet not be afraid of falling?” What a vivid picture of perseverance!
Shasta and Bree’s path crosses with a princess fleeing from an arranged marriage, Avaris. They start journeying to Narnia together but are separated when Shasta is suddenly mistaken for a prince and whisked away.
Meanwhile, Avaris overhears an evil prince plotting to capture Queen Lucy in Narnia and destroy another land along the way. When Avaris and Shasta reunite they ride for all they’re worth to alert King Lune of the trouble. Bree says he can run no more and even gives the reason why. “But one of the worst results of being a slave and being forced to do things is that when there is no one to force you anymore you find you have almost lost the power of forcing yourself.”
Aslan tells Shasta, “I was the lion…I was the lion who forced you to join Arvais. I was the cat who comforted you among the houses of the dead. I was the lion who drove the jackals from you while you slept. I was the lion who gave the horses the new strength of fear for the last miles so they should read King Lune in time. And I was the lion you do not remember who pushed the boat in which you lay, a child near death, so that it came to shore where a man sat wakeful at midnight to receive you.”
Guidance, courage, justice, and forgiveness are some of the impactful themes wonderfully woven through this gripping tale. Won’t you join Kate and Sheils as they saddle up for Narnia? Happy Reading dear friends!
Shasta and Bree’s path crosses with a princess fleeing from an arranged marriage, Avaris. They start journeying to Narnia together but are separated when Shasta is suddenly mistaken for a prince and whisked away.
Meanwhile, Avaris overhears an evil prince plotting to capture Queen Lucy in Narnia and destroy another land along the way. When Avaris and Shasta reunite they ride for all they’re worth to alert King Lune of the trouble. Bree says he can run no more and even gives the reason why. “But one of the worst results of being a slave and being forced to do things is that when there is no one to force you anymore you find you have almost lost the power of forcing yourself.”
Aslan tells Shasta, “I was the lion…I was the lion who forced you to join Arvais. I was the cat who comforted you among the houses of the dead. I was the lion who drove the jackals from you while you slept. I was the lion who gave the horses the new strength of fear for the last miles so they should read King Lune in time. And I was the lion you do not remember who pushed the boat in which you lay, a child near death, so that it came to shore where a man sat wakeful at midnight to receive you.”
Guidance, courage, justice, and forgiveness are some of the impactful themes wonderfully woven through this gripping tale. Won’t you join Kate and Sheils as they saddle up for Narnia? Happy Reading dear friends!
May 14, 202423:08
Bonus Bite- “We Speak With Love” from House Rules by Jacob Hudgins
“Sometimes little things matter a lot. Words change things. Words start wars—and end wars. Words start marriages—-and end marriages. Words make us feel like we can’t go on—and make us feel like we can. We speak with love.” Jacob Hudgins shows us in House Rules why Rule #4 We Speak with Love is so vital for families. James 3:7-8 tells us that the tongue cannot be tamed, that it is restless evil, full of deadly poison. Doesn’t that sound serious?
Time should be taken before speaking so our family hears the point not the anger. We must watch what comes out of our mouths because it reflects what is in our hearts. As Eph 4:29 says, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Don’t you love that terminology?
Build up vs destroy, which has a path for growth? Here’s this week’s diamante:
Anger
Harsh, destructive
Provoking, attacking, labeling
Insults, tone, patience, consistency
Nurturing, growing, benefiting
Kind, constructive
Love
Thanks for joining Kate and Sheila as they seek to fill the quiver of families with godly wisdom that can impact today’s homes in such a way that will glorify our Father in heaven!
Time should be taken before speaking so our family hears the point not the anger. We must watch what comes out of our mouths because it reflects what is in our hearts. As Eph 4:29 says, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Don’t you love that terminology?
Build up vs destroy, which has a path for growth? Here’s this week’s diamante:
Anger
Harsh, destructive
Provoking, attacking, labeling
Insults, tone, patience, consistency
Nurturing, growing, benefiting
Kind, constructive
Love
Thanks for joining Kate and Sheila as they seek to fill the quiver of families with godly wisdom that can impact today’s homes in such a way that will glorify our Father in heaven!
May 10, 202431:21
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
Let’s look back to a simpler time, when kids played outside until dark and phones were attached to the walls. Have you seen the movie Secretariat where the father says to his sons, “Get your devices off the table,?” The devices were their toy airplanes, that always cracks me up but it also is a reminder of how much things have changed. Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger reminds us of a less hurried time. He wrote from his hear masterfully weaving together a novel of historical fiction, matters of grief, coming of age (bildungsroman), and mystery.
The story is told from Frank Drum’s viewpoint as he, now a grown man, looks back to the summer when he was an unsettled kid of thirteen grappling with what manhood was all about in his mixed-up world. His younger brother, Jake, has a stuttering problem. He also has deep insight. He didn’t fake things, he was the real deal. Ariel, their talented older sister, was soon to be on her way to Juliard. Their father, Nathan Drum, pastors 3 churches, ministers to his war buddy,Gus, and pours into the whole community. “My father and his great embracing heart.”
On the other end of the caring spectrum we meet Ruth Drum, distant mom and wife, being a preacher’s wife is not what she signed up for.
Kruegar shows the after effects of WWII. “I think that it wasn’t so much the war as what we took into the war. Whatever cracks were already there the war forced apart, and what we might otherwise have kept inside came spilling out.”
The novel starts with an accidental death of a small boy then the boys find a homeless man who died of natural causes. Next, there’s a suicide attempt and a murder! Not a book for youngsters, the content is heavy and the language is like that of sailors, but for readers that are ready it is a gift. We are shown the different ways people work through grief.
“Hope was what my father held to. My mother chose despair.”
“I (Frank)felt ______’s death had shoved me through a doorway into a world where I was a stranger.”
Jake said, “If we put everything in Gods’ hands, maybe we won't have to be afraid anymore.”
Please join Kate and Sheila as they dive into the 1960s. Blessings to you, dear readers!
The story is told from Frank Drum’s viewpoint as he, now a grown man, looks back to the summer when he was an unsettled kid of thirteen grappling with what manhood was all about in his mixed-up world. His younger brother, Jake, has a stuttering problem. He also has deep insight. He didn’t fake things, he was the real deal. Ariel, their talented older sister, was soon to be on her way to Juliard. Their father, Nathan Drum, pastors 3 churches, ministers to his war buddy,Gus, and pours into the whole community. “My father and his great embracing heart.”
On the other end of the caring spectrum we meet Ruth Drum, distant mom and wife, being a preacher’s wife is not what she signed up for.
Kruegar shows the after effects of WWII. “I think that it wasn’t so much the war as what we took into the war. Whatever cracks were already there the war forced apart, and what we might otherwise have kept inside came spilling out.”
The novel starts with an accidental death of a small boy then the boys find a homeless man who died of natural causes. Next, there’s a suicide attempt and a murder! Not a book for youngsters, the content is heavy and the language is like that of sailors, but for readers that are ready it is a gift. We are shown the different ways people work through grief.
“Hope was what my father held to. My mother chose despair.”
“I (Frank)felt ______’s death had shoved me through a doorway into a world where I was a stranger.”
Jake said, “If we put everything in Gods’ hands, maybe we won't have to be afraid anymore.”
Please join Kate and Sheila as they dive into the 1960s. Blessings to you, dear readers!
May 07, 202426:26
Bonus Bite-“We tell the truth” from House Rules by Jacob Hudgins
Our Bonus Bite for this week continues from House Rules by Jacob Hudgins with
Rule #3: We tell the truth. Let’s embrace the simplicity of telling the truth. “We serve a God who tells the truth (John 17:17) and cannot lie (Titus 1:2). Satan is the father of lies (John 8:44).”
We really only have two choices. Christian homes need to be places where the truth is told. This takes much work and intentionality, nothing drifts to the top.
If our purpose is to glorify God and live a life pleasing to Him then we must be able to admit our wrongs. We must keep our commitments as we strive to be faithful like our heavenly Father (1Cor 1:9, 1 Cor 10:13, 1 Thes 5:24 & 2 Thes 3:3).
Why are we afraid to tell the truth? Is it facing the consequences? Is it angering or disappointing others? Is it fear of losing love? Any or all of these could be the culprit. How do we overcome these hurdles and avoid developing a habit of dishonesty? To borrow a phrase from the classic character from the old Andy Griffith show, “Nip it in the bud.” Yes, we must own our mistakes and overreactions. The sooner the better to avoid trust issues. In our homes we must feel safe to admit wrongs and move forward. Let’s not give the devil the foothold of dishonesty.
Here’s this week’s diamante contrasting Lies with Truth.
Lies
Selfish, fearful
Damaging,betraying,consuming Disobedience, consequences trustworthiness, humility
Admitting, confessing, committing
Faithful, intentional
Truth.
Please join us as we strive to live out these House Rules…’ what starts at home changes the world!’ Happy listening and reading dear friends!
Book mentioned: Living Fearless: Exchanging the Lies of the World for the Liberating Truth of God by: Jamie Winship
May 02, 202425:04
The Persian Pickle Club by Sandra Dallas
Greetings book friends! Join Kate and Sheila as they dive into The Persian Pickle Club. What a timely tale stitched up by Sandra Dallas that takes us back to the dirty thirties to the town of Harveyville, Kansas! There’s a plethora of personalities around the quilting frame but one thing that stands out like a beacon is how these ladies show up for each other in times of need!
“There wasn’t a quilt top turned out by a member of the Persian Pickle Club that didn’t have fabrics from all of us in it. That made us all part of one another’s quilts, just like we were part of one another's lives.”
Queenie Bean, the youngest member, came up with the idea of doing a Celebrity Quilt to auction off and help a home for unwed mothers. When Rita, Mrs. Ritter’s daughter-in-law, arrives from the big city, the Pickles welcome her with open arms even though her attitude is less than stellar. Rita cannot grasp the closeness of the quilters but she did write an article about the Celebrity Quilt for the newspaper.
Mrs. Judd is a powerful force who exercises tough love for Queenie after a terrible ordeal that caused her to lock herself in the house and refuse to interact with others.
“You can stay locked up here feeling sorry for yourself like Lizzy Olive would have done, or you can put the bad time behind you like Ella did and think about all the things the Lord gave you. He’ll keep on giving them to you if you let Him, but how can you take advantage of His opportunities behind the kitchen door with the hook on.”
When the skeleton of one of the quilter’s husbands turns up buried in his field, Rita turns into super sleuth and attempts to solve the murder so she can write another article and kiss the dust of Harveyville goodbye.
Who killed Ben Crook? How are the quilters going to use one problem to solve another? What made these hard times bearable? Are you ready to join these calm, caring, conscientious and concerned quilters who stitch up more than quilts? They connect with each other’s lives in ways that remind us to ‘go and do likewise.’ Happy reading dear friends!
“There wasn’t a quilt top turned out by a member of the Persian Pickle Club that didn’t have fabrics from all of us in it. That made us all part of one another’s quilts, just like we were part of one another's lives.”
Queenie Bean, the youngest member, came up with the idea of doing a Celebrity Quilt to auction off and help a home for unwed mothers. When Rita, Mrs. Ritter’s daughter-in-law, arrives from the big city, the Pickles welcome her with open arms even though her attitude is less than stellar. Rita cannot grasp the closeness of the quilters but she did write an article about the Celebrity Quilt for the newspaper.
Mrs. Judd is a powerful force who exercises tough love for Queenie after a terrible ordeal that caused her to lock herself in the house and refuse to interact with others.
“You can stay locked up here feeling sorry for yourself like Lizzy Olive would have done, or you can put the bad time behind you like Ella did and think about all the things the Lord gave you. He’ll keep on giving them to you if you let Him, but how can you take advantage of His opportunities behind the kitchen door with the hook on.”
When the skeleton of one of the quilter’s husbands turns up buried in his field, Rita turns into super sleuth and attempts to solve the murder so she can write another article and kiss the dust of Harveyville goodbye.
Who killed Ben Crook? How are the quilters going to use one problem to solve another? What made these hard times bearable? Are you ready to join these calm, caring, conscientious and concerned quilters who stitch up more than quilts? They connect with each other’s lives in ways that remind us to ‘go and do likewise.’ Happy reading dear friends!
Apr 30, 202432:60
Bonus Bite- “All People Deserve Respect” from House Rules by Jacob Hudgins
Please join Kate and Sheila as they recap rule #2-All people deserve respect— in Jacob Hudgins book, House Rules. Respect may be a bit challenging to define but it is easy to see the lack of it. Where is respect taught first?... You guessed it–The home! We are made in God’s Image and God values all people, yes ALL people, the good, the bad, and the disparaging. It is not about us or them, it is about our Heavenly Father, 1 Peter 2:17 says to ‘honor everyone’, quite a challenge when leaders are unjust. David was a good example of respecting an unjust ruler. David could have killed King Saul but would not because he was the Lord’s anointed, he trusted God’s timing and was known as a man after God’s own heart.
This is a tough rule indeed. It is easy to see when this rule is not kept. In times past, manners, kindness, and courtesy were modeled in the home. Where/when did we lose ground in this arena? Instead of looking back and pointing fingers let’s look forward and endeavor to make a change. Do you want to set your children up for a more joyful life? Give them the gift of respect.Thanks so much for listening as we strive to live lives pleasing to our heavenly Father!
This week we have a diamante poem to highlight the contrast between the dark side and the light.
Disrespect
negative scornful
Belittling, ignoring, interrupting
Arrogance, inconsiderateness, appreciation, kindness
Empathizing, listening, teaching
Positive, valuable
Respect
Additional books mentioned in this podcast:
Love & Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs — by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
The Devil and the White City by Erik Larson
Apr 26, 202421:37
Ladies of the Lake by Cathy Gohlke
Cathy Gohlke’s book, Ladies of the Lake, has astute readers asking a plethora of questions from the get go. Why is Rosaline Murray no longer Adelaide? Why won’t she go to her daughter’s graduation? Why did she want to disguise her voice? What is Dot’s secret? What is Rolsaline’s veil for? Join Kate and Sheila as they join Addie on her tumultuous journey.
“Dear God and Father of us all, we come to You heartbroken, grieving the sudden and terrible loss of Adelaide’s beloved parents. We grieve for the loss of their strong arms about her and the loss of the home where she was born and felt safe. Now she’s on a journey, Lord, into the unknown. Be with her Father. Let her know Your love and care. Bring others into her life to help her. Remind her daily in tangible ways that she does not travel this life alone…Hold her, guide her, Father. Bless her with courage and peace only You can give. Thank You for placing this dear girl, my new friend, in my path. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.”
What a beautiful prayer from the lovely woman, Mrs. Simmons, that Adelaide aka Addie met on the train!
Addie’s older brother, Lemuel, sends her off to Lakeside Ladies Academy in Connecticut after the sudden drowning of her parents at sea. At the young age of twelve, she is whisked away from Prince Edward Island enroute to a new country. Addie meets Dot, Ruth and Susanna who become dear friends.
The girls graduate in 1910 and Addie and Dot remain at the school to teach. They are both in love with Stephen Meyer and as tension between the girls mounts so does the tension between townspeople toward the Meyers family because their family came from Germany. Fear fuels folks to throw bricks and hand out white feathers.
Are you ready to read a gripping tale told by two narrators, Addie and Dot, in two time periods, 1911-1917 (past) and 1935 (present day)?
“We are all scarred in one way or another.” Ruth
Scars, inside or out, should not define us. Our identity shouldn’t be in what we’ve lost but in God’s plan for us. Happy reading dear friends!
“Dear God and Father of us all, we come to You heartbroken, grieving the sudden and terrible loss of Adelaide’s beloved parents. We grieve for the loss of their strong arms about her and the loss of the home where she was born and felt safe. Now she’s on a journey, Lord, into the unknown. Be with her Father. Let her know Your love and care. Bring others into her life to help her. Remind her daily in tangible ways that she does not travel this life alone…Hold her, guide her, Father. Bless her with courage and peace only You can give. Thank You for placing this dear girl, my new friend, in my path. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.”
What a beautiful prayer from the lovely woman, Mrs. Simmons, that Adelaide aka Addie met on the train!
Addie’s older brother, Lemuel, sends her off to Lakeside Ladies Academy in Connecticut after the sudden drowning of her parents at sea. At the young age of twelve, she is whisked away from Prince Edward Island enroute to a new country. Addie meets Dot, Ruth and Susanna who become dear friends.
The girls graduate in 1910 and Addie and Dot remain at the school to teach. They are both in love with Stephen Meyer and as tension between the girls mounts so does the tension between townspeople toward the Meyers family because their family came from Germany. Fear fuels folks to throw bricks and hand out white feathers.
Are you ready to read a gripping tale told by two narrators, Addie and Dot, in two time periods, 1911-1917 (past) and 1935 (present day)?
“We are all scarred in one way or another.” Ruth
Scars, inside or out, should not define us. Our identity shouldn’t be in what we’ve lost but in God’s plan for us. Happy reading dear friends!
Apr 23, 202427:36
Bonus Bite- “Home is A Safe Place” from House Rules by Jacob Hudgins
Greetings dear friends! We are embarking on a new impactful Book Bite journey. Join Kate and Sheila as they start 10 Guidelines for Christian Homes in House Rules! The book connects with the timely quote by Fredrick Douglass, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”
Jacob Hudgins delivers a clear and concise plan to help readers build homes where families thrive. “Homes are where kids’ hearts are formed and if we get home wrong we cause unspeakable damage.” Homes are:
Habit incubators
Growth engines
Hypocrisy revealers
Homes feed societies. Sadly, homes are under attack. Do we have our armor on? Let’s start with Rule #1 Home is a Safe Place. We have to be intentional, godly homes do not just happen. We have to swim upstream against the cultural current. Are you ready for this week’s poem?
Environment
safe continual
speaking, failing, learning
Love unconditionally like God
Home
One of our favorite quotes was, “Children’s questions are windows to their hearts.”
Another one that packed a punch, “What starts at home changes the world.”
Thanks so much for having ears to listen and learn with us! Happy Reading!
Jacob Hudgins delivers a clear and concise plan to help readers build homes where families thrive. “Homes are where kids’ hearts are formed and if we get home wrong we cause unspeakable damage.” Homes are:
Habit incubators
Growth engines
Hypocrisy revealers
Homes feed societies. Sadly, homes are under attack. Do we have our armor on? Let’s start with Rule #1 Home is a Safe Place. We have to be intentional, godly homes do not just happen. We have to swim upstream against the cultural current. Are you ready for this week’s poem?
Environment
safe continual
speaking, failing, learning
Love unconditionally like God
Home
One of our favorite quotes was, “Children’s questions are windows to their hearts.”
Another one that packed a punch, “What starts at home changes the world.”
Thanks so much for having ears to listen and learn with us! Happy Reading!
Apr 18, 202431:44
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
Ruta Sepetys' finely crafted WWII novel, Salt to the Sea, is a gem. It was inspired by the real-life tragedy of the sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff which claimed over 9,000 lives making it the greatest maritime disaster in history.
The story is told in four voices, each from a different homeland, Readers will meet:
Emilia, a 15 year old blond Polish girl with unbelievable perseverance and resilience.
Joana, a smart young woman with some medical training that abounds with kindness.
Florian, a handsome wounded German that saved Emilia from a Russian soldier. Florian is holding secrets, he was once a restoration assistant.
Alfred, a Nazi sailor on the Gustloff, concentrates on the people he hates, thinking of getting rid of Jews, Poles, and disabled as a disinfecting.
In the group of refugees, there was a cobbler, nicknamed the shoe poet for his gift with words.
“The shoes always tell the story…Your boots, they are expensive, well made. That tells me that you come from a wealthy family. But the style is one made for an older woman. That tells me they probably belong to your mother. That tells me you are loved, my dear. And your mother is not here, so that tells me that you are sad, my dear. The shoes tell the story.”
“Yet amidst all that , life has spit in the eye of death.” The shoe poet’s wise words after a baby is born in the chaos of war.
“You’re a blister, Ava, a sour little blister.” The colorful way he described the negative lady in the group.
How do these lives connect? Sepetys depicts the rawness of war and the kindness of caring at the same time in this remarkable book!
“Just when you think this war has taken everything from you, you meet someone and realize you still have more to give.”
Thanks so much for joining us. Happy reading!!!
The story is told in four voices, each from a different homeland, Readers will meet:
Emilia, a 15 year old blond Polish girl with unbelievable perseverance and resilience.
Joana, a smart young woman with some medical training that abounds with kindness.
Florian, a handsome wounded German that saved Emilia from a Russian soldier. Florian is holding secrets, he was once a restoration assistant.
Alfred, a Nazi sailor on the Gustloff, concentrates on the people he hates, thinking of getting rid of Jews, Poles, and disabled as a disinfecting.
In the group of refugees, there was a cobbler, nicknamed the shoe poet for his gift with words.
“The shoes always tell the story…Your boots, they are expensive, well made. That tells me that you come from a wealthy family. But the style is one made for an older woman. That tells me they probably belong to your mother. That tells me you are loved, my dear. And your mother is not here, so that tells me that you are sad, my dear. The shoes tell the story.”
“Yet amidst all that , life has spit in the eye of death.” The shoe poet’s wise words after a baby is born in the chaos of war.
“You’re a blister, Ava, a sour little blister.” The colorful way he described the negative lady in the group.
How do these lives connect? Sepetys depicts the rawness of war and the kindness of caring at the same time in this remarkable book!
“Just when you think this war has taken everything from you, you meet someone and realize you still have more to give.”
Thanks so much for joining us. Happy reading!!!
Apr 16, 202430:05
Bonus Bite-“The Rest of the Journey” from Glittering Vices by Rebecca DeYoung
Kate and Sheila wrap up Rebecca DeYoung’s Glittering Vices in this episode. It has been an enlightening trek. As Horace said, “To flee vice is the beginning of virtue.” The Rest of the Journey wraps up our study on the seven deadly sins and their remedies. Pride is the root and the trunk of the vice tree and vainglory, envy, acedia, avarice, wrath, gluttony, and lust are the main branches. The worst thing about the vices is that they thwart our ability to love and be loved. “Why are you relying on yourself, only to find yourself unreliable.” –Augustine
Our habits say a lot about who we are by reflecting the shape of our hearts and minds. Practicing spiritual disciplines helps bridge the gap between vices and virtues. These daily practices that help form virtuous habits are not always exciting but little by little they transform us into becoming more Christlike. This journey must be intentional, as John Stott said, “Holiness is not a condition into which we can drift.”
“The process, it is a gradual process dear heart, of putting off the old self and putting on the new self reveals nothing less than God’s power at work within us.” The process is comprehensive and includes all areas of our lives. It is also concrete. For example, if someone is practicing gratitude they would also do grateful things which would cause them to view the world through a different lens. Lastly, it is a communal endeavor. We all need help along the way, God created us this way.
“Are you ready to start the journey toward a closer relationship with Him, confident that God who began a good work in you will bring it to completion, for your good and His glory?”
Our habits say a lot about who we are by reflecting the shape of our hearts and minds. Practicing spiritual disciplines helps bridge the gap between vices and virtues. These daily practices that help form virtuous habits are not always exciting but little by little they transform us into becoming more Christlike. This journey must be intentional, as John Stott said, “Holiness is not a condition into which we can drift.”
“The process, it is a gradual process dear heart, of putting off the old self and putting on the new self reveals nothing less than God’s power at work within us.” The process is comprehensive and includes all areas of our lives. It is also concrete. For example, if someone is practicing gratitude they would also do grateful things which would cause them to view the world through a different lens. Lastly, it is a communal endeavor. We all need help along the way, God created us this way.
“Are you ready to start the journey toward a closer relationship with Him, confident that God who began a good work in you will bring it to completion, for your good and His glory?”
Apr 11, 202419:34
Samuel Coleridge’s Four Types of Readers
Have you ever heard the last two lines of this poem? “Water water everywhere
And all the boards did shrink,
Water water everywhere
Nor any drop to drink”
Join Kate and Sheila as they discuss Samuel Coleridge’s Four Types of Readers:
Sand-glasses / Hourglasses- like sand that runs in and out and leaves not a ‘vestige’ behind, in other words, these readers retain nothing. They are simply passing time as one might do when they are waiting at the dentist office perusing a magazine.
Sponges-absorb all they read and return it nearly in the same state only a little dirtied. They don't think much for themselves so they may miss the point.
Strain bag / Jelly bag - squeeze out valuable information and hold onto the unimportant or in Coleridge’s words, “retain merely the dregs of what they read.” The violent, shameful, or sullied parts stick and the main points get tossed out. Can happen when one is reading above his/her level.
Mogul / Golconda - profit by what they read and enable others to profit by it too.
These readers are able to cast aside all that is worthless and retain the pure gems. Picture the miner with a sieve working away searching for nuggets of gold. Annotating and making connections can help us glean from what we read and be more enlightened readers : )
Reading can be a rollercoaster ride, the highs would be the Mogul moments and the lows would be hourglasses and the others. It is interesting to note that we do not always bring our A game to our reading endeavors but maybe Coleridge can help us figure out when we don’t and possibly help us back up the train (of thought : ) to refocus and go for the GOLD!
One last Colerige quote, “Little is taught by contest or dispute, everything by sympathy and love.” Clever wording that connects with an old favorite that I just read in The Persian Pickle Club, “... you can get more flies with honey than with vinegar.” Aren’t connections cool?
Check out The Read Well Podcast episode #43 to hear where we discovered these four types of readers. We hope you have a blessed week. Thanks so much for lending us an ear, may your day be filled with cheer. Happy reading!
And all the boards did shrink,
Water water everywhere
Nor any drop to drink”
Join Kate and Sheila as they discuss Samuel Coleridge’s Four Types of Readers:
Sand-glasses / Hourglasses- like sand that runs in and out and leaves not a ‘vestige’ behind, in other words, these readers retain nothing. They are simply passing time as one might do when they are waiting at the dentist office perusing a magazine.
Sponges-absorb all they read and return it nearly in the same state only a little dirtied. They don't think much for themselves so they may miss the point.
Strain bag / Jelly bag - squeeze out valuable information and hold onto the unimportant or in Coleridge’s words, “retain merely the dregs of what they read.” The violent, shameful, or sullied parts stick and the main points get tossed out. Can happen when one is reading above his/her level.
Mogul / Golconda - profit by what they read and enable others to profit by it too.
These readers are able to cast aside all that is worthless and retain the pure gems. Picture the miner with a sieve working away searching for nuggets of gold. Annotating and making connections can help us glean from what we read and be more enlightened readers : )
Reading can be a rollercoaster ride, the highs would be the Mogul moments and the lows would be hourglasses and the others. It is interesting to note that we do not always bring our A game to our reading endeavors but maybe Coleridge can help us figure out when we don’t and possibly help us back up the train (of thought : ) to refocus and go for the GOLD!
One last Colerige quote, “Little is taught by contest or dispute, everything by sympathy and love.” Clever wording that connects with an old favorite that I just read in The Persian Pickle Club, “... you can get more flies with honey than with vinegar.” Aren’t connections cool?
Check out The Read Well Podcast episode #43 to hear where we discovered these four types of readers. We hope you have a blessed week. Thanks so much for lending us an ear, may your day be filled with cheer. Happy reading!
Apr 09, 202427:33
Bonus Bite-“Lust” from Glittering Vices by Rebecca DeYoung
Please join Kate and Sheila as they discuss the last vice in Glittering Vices by
Rebecca DeYoung. She defines lust as a disordered desire for sexual pleasure. Lust begins as a sin of weakness not malice. This habitual attachment to pleasure erodes our relationship with God. DeYoung puts it this way, “Lust is a problem with the heart above your belt before it is a problem with the heat below it. Fulfilling pleasure without full human intimacy is lust’s false promise… an imitation of happiness.”
Vice happens when we try to make good gifts fill gaps that only God can satisfy. There is no substitute for God. Lust connects with pride. Engineered happiness results in a shallow version that only satisfies for a moment. Lust plays the same tired old game as the rest of the vices, winning the game means you lose.
Lust not only has a lot of collateral damage but it damages the person who lusts as well.
Despair, depression, shame, callousness, blindness to beauty, loneliness, disrespect, and self-loathing lay in its wake.
“When we misuse something habitually we tend to lose our appreciation for its true goodness. The choice to love is an opportunity to appreciate and value a flawed human for his or her sake.”
What is the antidote? Some call it temperance, some call it integrity of the heart, DeYoung calls it chastity. What is chastity? The virtue of chastity must be cultivated inside and out.
It grows greater with time and experience. The patience that Paul mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13 is a must in this department. “Do we live a life intentionally bathed in the love of God, a love that quiets our deep search for happiness and communion elsewhere?” “We need communities that show us how to rely on the Spirit’s power in faithfulness and hope.”
“Give the body discipline, and you will see that the body is for the One who made it,” says the desert mother Amma Theodora. These early Christians took the unity of body and soul more seriously than we do today. Following Paul’s advice to pursue what is true, honorable, just, pure, excellent, and praiseworthy (Phil.4:8) helps prevent worldliness from drifting in.
Thanks so much for listening as we discover how to say good-bye to lust and hello to chastity!
Rebecca DeYoung. She defines lust as a disordered desire for sexual pleasure. Lust begins as a sin of weakness not malice. This habitual attachment to pleasure erodes our relationship with God. DeYoung puts it this way, “Lust is a problem with the heart above your belt before it is a problem with the heat below it. Fulfilling pleasure without full human intimacy is lust’s false promise… an imitation of happiness.”
Vice happens when we try to make good gifts fill gaps that only God can satisfy. There is no substitute for God. Lust connects with pride. Engineered happiness results in a shallow version that only satisfies for a moment. Lust plays the same tired old game as the rest of the vices, winning the game means you lose.
Lust not only has a lot of collateral damage but it damages the person who lusts as well.
Despair, depression, shame, callousness, blindness to beauty, loneliness, disrespect, and self-loathing lay in its wake.
“When we misuse something habitually we tend to lose our appreciation for its true goodness. The choice to love is an opportunity to appreciate and value a flawed human for his or her sake.”
What is the antidote? Some call it temperance, some call it integrity of the heart, DeYoung calls it chastity. What is chastity? The virtue of chastity must be cultivated inside and out.
It grows greater with time and experience. The patience that Paul mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13 is a must in this department. “Do we live a life intentionally bathed in the love of God, a love that quiets our deep search for happiness and communion elsewhere?” “We need communities that show us how to rely on the Spirit’s power in faithfulness and hope.”
“Give the body discipline, and you will see that the body is for the One who made it,” says the desert mother Amma Theodora. These early Christians took the unity of body and soul more seriously than we do today. Following Paul’s advice to pursue what is true, honorable, just, pure, excellent, and praiseworthy (Phil.4:8) helps prevent worldliness from drifting in.
Thanks so much for listening as we discover how to say good-bye to lust and hello to chastity!
Apr 05, 202435:13
The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky, Part 2
Let’s meet the brothers: Dmitri- the eldest, impulsive, strong, uneducated, driven by desires
Ivan- the middle, the intellectual, preoccupied, gloomy atheist
Alyosha- the youngest, kind, thoughtful, brave, spiritually minded
Smerdyakov-illegitimate, ungrateful, sneaky, devious (creeper alert)
Please join Kate and Sheila discussion about the age-old struggle of good versus evil by looking at the gifted Russian writer, Fyodor Dostoevsky’s discordant family found in
The Brothers Karamazov!
(Translated by the award winning team of Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonskyy)
The father, Fyodor, was selfish, crude, neglectful, immoral, and muddleheaded. All his sons were raised by Grigory, his servant. Fyodor quipped, “I’m a buffoon out of shame…I act up because I’m insecure.”
Alyosha chose a different path than the others. “I want to live for immortality, and I reject any halfway compromise.” His mentor, Zosima, taught him from God’s Word.
He also advised the elder Karamazov, “Above all, do not lie to yourself. A man who lies to himself and listens to his own lie comes to a point where he does not discern any truth either in himself or anywhere around him, and thus falls into disrespect towards himself and others.”
Dmitri shares with Alyosha, “Here the devil is struggling with God, and the battlefield is the human heart.”
Ivan’s words from his famous speech, The Grand Inquisitor, “He (Jesus) came to give His life for them! Instead of taking over men’s freedom, you increased it and forever burdened the kingdom of the human soul…by so terrible a burden as freedom of choice.”
The action culminates in an unforgettable courtroom scene. Both the prosecutor and the defense attorneys give moving speeches that end with applause. Did Dmitri murder his less than stellar father? If he didn't, who did?
Dostoevsky packs a lot into this book. What is the purpose of life? He shows the importance of living a life well and how the life we live affects others. As Alyosha says in closing,
“How good life is when you do something good and rightful.”
“A crust always looks bigger in another man’s hand.” Trust us this book will look big no matter whose hand it is in : ) It is a mammoth read (823 pages) but well worth the effort if you are looking for a challenge. Happy Reading dear listeners!
Ivan- the middle, the intellectual, preoccupied, gloomy atheist
Alyosha- the youngest, kind, thoughtful, brave, spiritually minded
Smerdyakov-illegitimate, ungrateful, sneaky, devious (creeper alert)
Please join Kate and Sheila discussion about the age-old struggle of good versus evil by looking at the gifted Russian writer, Fyodor Dostoevsky’s discordant family found in
The Brothers Karamazov!
(Translated by the award winning team of Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonskyy)
The father, Fyodor, was selfish, crude, neglectful, immoral, and muddleheaded. All his sons were raised by Grigory, his servant. Fyodor quipped, “I’m a buffoon out of shame…I act up because I’m insecure.”
Alyosha chose a different path than the others. “I want to live for immortality, and I reject any halfway compromise.” His mentor, Zosima, taught him from God’s Word.
He also advised the elder Karamazov, “Above all, do not lie to yourself. A man who lies to himself and listens to his own lie comes to a point where he does not discern any truth either in himself or anywhere around him, and thus falls into disrespect towards himself and others.”
Dmitri shares with Alyosha, “Here the devil is struggling with God, and the battlefield is the human heart.”
Ivan’s words from his famous speech, The Grand Inquisitor, “He (Jesus) came to give His life for them! Instead of taking over men’s freedom, you increased it and forever burdened the kingdom of the human soul…by so terrible a burden as freedom of choice.”
The action culminates in an unforgettable courtroom scene. Both the prosecutor and the defense attorneys give moving speeches that end with applause. Did Dmitri murder his less than stellar father? If he didn't, who did?
Dostoevsky packs a lot into this book. What is the purpose of life? He shows the importance of living a life well and how the life we live affects others. As Alyosha says in closing,
“How good life is when you do something good and rightful.”
“A crust always looks bigger in another man’s hand.” Trust us this book will look big no matter whose hand it is in : ) It is a mammoth read (823 pages) but well worth the effort if you are looking for a challenge. Happy Reading dear listeners!
Apr 03, 202443:02
Bonus Bite-“Gluttony” from Glittering Vices by Rebecca DeYoung
Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! This vice really hit home. Gluttony, like all the vices, begins with something created for good but sin creeps in and our desires run amok. Gregory the Great from the Middle Ages summed gluttony up in five categories:
Too daintily (nothing is ever quite right)
Too sumptuously (lavishly)
Too hastily (gobble and go)
Too greedily (ravenously-think Augustus Gloop)
Too much (tastes like more)
We learned that “what’s being eaten” deals with the first two and “how the food is eaten” deals with the last three. Indulgence whets the appetite instead of satisfying it. Ecclesiastes 6:7 reminds us…”his appetite is not satisfied.”
The trouble with instant gratification is it only lasts for an instant. This quick fix leaves us depleted and spiritually starved. We’re made to find our flourishing in more than physical pleasure. Something I need to remind myself when I reach for chocolate!
God made food good for our bodies and He made taste buds for us to savor the flavor. It all goes south when we try to do what Adam and Eve did long ago in the garden. When we choose to rely on food or drink instead of God we thwart our spiritual growth.
Every virtue has two vices, extremes in both directions. Those joyless about food lack appreciation, while the self-indulgent are striving to provide pleasure through food.
How do we get off this hamster wheel and unlearn the bad habits we’ve picked up?
Rebecca DeYoung guides us in Glittering Vices to give up gratification for gratitude.Yes, intentionality is key as is practice. Will it happen overnight? Not a chance, change takes time, however, rightly forming our desires will put us on the right pathway.
Please join Kate and Sheila as they strive to say, Good-bye gluttony, Hello temperance.
Too daintily (nothing is ever quite right)
Too sumptuously (lavishly)
Too hastily (gobble and go)
Too greedily (ravenously-think Augustus Gloop)
Too much (tastes like more)
We learned that “what’s being eaten” deals with the first two and “how the food is eaten” deals with the last three. Indulgence whets the appetite instead of satisfying it. Ecclesiastes 6:7 reminds us…”his appetite is not satisfied.”
The trouble with instant gratification is it only lasts for an instant. This quick fix leaves us depleted and spiritually starved. We’re made to find our flourishing in more than physical pleasure. Something I need to remind myself when I reach for chocolate!
God made food good for our bodies and He made taste buds for us to savor the flavor. It all goes south when we try to do what Adam and Eve did long ago in the garden. When we choose to rely on food or drink instead of God we thwart our spiritual growth.
Every virtue has two vices, extremes in both directions. Those joyless about food lack appreciation, while the self-indulgent are striving to provide pleasure through food.
How do we get off this hamster wheel and unlearn the bad habits we’ve picked up?
Rebecca DeYoung guides us in Glittering Vices to give up gratification for gratitude.Yes, intentionality is key as is practice. Will it happen overnight? Not a chance, change takes time, however, rightly forming our desires will put us on the right pathway.
Please join Kate and Sheila as they strive to say, Good-bye gluttony, Hello temperance.
Mar 29, 202421:55
The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis
“No great wisdom can be reached without sacrifice.” What a powerful quote in
The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis! The prequel to the enduring and ever-popular The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Readers discover how Narnia came to be in this timely tale when two children from London, Digory and Polly, stumble upon Digory’s Uncle Andrew; he tricks them into putting on rings that transport them to another world. They encounter the evil queen, Jadis, who destroyed her world and seeks to destroy theirs as well. Polly and Digory work together to get Jadis out of London before that can happen.
This amazing story shows readers the consequences of impulsiveness and selfishness and the beauty and strength and obedience found in putting others first and doing good.
“All get what they want; They do not always like it.”
Join Polly and Digory as they meet the great Aslan, whose presence scares Jadis aka the witch causing her to skedaddle. The talking animals debate whether Uncle Andrew is a vegetable, mineral, or human and finally decide he is a tree and plant him thigh deep in the dirt : )
Digory tells Aslan his mother is dying. He asks if he could send him back with something from Narnia that would heal her. Aslan looks at him with tears in his eyes and tells him that the two of them are the only ones in Narnia who know about grief. He encourages with these words,
“Let us be good to one another.”
Aslan sends the adventurers on a mission. Will Digory and Polly succeed or will the mission be thwarted by the evil witch. The kids are stronger in making wise choices the closer they are to Aslan. Isn’t that how we are? The closer to Christ we are the more we are able to battle the troubles and struggles in life in a manner that strengthens instead of devastates us. Self-control is a struggle and obedience is too but we never regret doing the right thing.
Please join us as we dive into the first chronicle and meet the young adventurers, the self-absorbed uncle, the cool cabby and his steadfast steed, the evil witch, and the magnificent lion. Pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea or listen as you go for a walk if the weather’s cooperating as we visit the land of Narnia.
The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis! The prequel to the enduring and ever-popular The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Readers discover how Narnia came to be in this timely tale when two children from London, Digory and Polly, stumble upon Digory’s Uncle Andrew; he tricks them into putting on rings that transport them to another world. They encounter the evil queen, Jadis, who destroyed her world and seeks to destroy theirs as well. Polly and Digory work together to get Jadis out of London before that can happen.
This amazing story shows readers the consequences of impulsiveness and selfishness and the beauty and strength and obedience found in putting others first and doing good.
“All get what they want; They do not always like it.”
Join Polly and Digory as they meet the great Aslan, whose presence scares Jadis aka the witch causing her to skedaddle. The talking animals debate whether Uncle Andrew is a vegetable, mineral, or human and finally decide he is a tree and plant him thigh deep in the dirt : )
Digory tells Aslan his mother is dying. He asks if he could send him back with something from Narnia that would heal her. Aslan looks at him with tears in his eyes and tells him that the two of them are the only ones in Narnia who know about grief. He encourages with these words,
“Let us be good to one another.”
Aslan sends the adventurers on a mission. Will Digory and Polly succeed or will the mission be thwarted by the evil witch. The kids are stronger in making wise choices the closer they are to Aslan. Isn’t that how we are? The closer to Christ we are the more we are able to battle the troubles and struggles in life in a manner that strengthens instead of devastates us. Self-control is a struggle and obedience is too but we never regret doing the right thing.
Please join us as we dive into the first chronicle and meet the young adventurers, the self-absorbed uncle, the cool cabby and his steadfast steed, the evil witch, and the magnificent lion. Pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea or listen as you go for a walk if the weather’s cooperating as we visit the land of Narnia.
Mar 26, 202421:13
Bonus Bite-“Wrath” from Glittering Vices by Rebecca DeYoung
Join Kate and Sheila as they dive into the vice of wrath from Glittering Vices by
Rebecca DeYoung. There are two schools of thought on this vice.
Aquinas believed it was a natural expression of a human emotion and it could be righteous if it targeted injustice. Anger as a holy emotion has justice as its object and love as its root as Jesus overturning the money changers tables. Anger turns wrathful when it fights for its own selfish cause.
Cassian claimed all anger causes blindness which obscures our ability to see Christ.
In James 1:19-20, “...we are told to be quick to listen…slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” “There is nothing that can be done with anger that cannot be done better without it.” Dallas Willard was in Cassian’s camp.
Psychologists call anger a “secondary emotion” because it masks other sorts of distress. John and Julie Gottman liken our emotional life to an iceberg: only anger shows above the surface, while fear, grief, and shame lurk under water.
What is our anger guarding? Is it our deepest attachments to worldly desires or the most significant sources of our identity? Wrath reveals idolatrous attachments and our prideful sense of self. Disrespect rankles us. It is a struggle to take a breath and give grace.
How can we thwart this powerful vice? We hope you will join us as we go over the virtue that can kibosh wrath. Good-bye wrath, Hello Gentleness!
Rebecca DeYoung. There are two schools of thought on this vice.
Aquinas believed it was a natural expression of a human emotion and it could be righteous if it targeted injustice. Anger as a holy emotion has justice as its object and love as its root as Jesus overturning the money changers tables. Anger turns wrathful when it fights for its own selfish cause.
Cassian claimed all anger causes blindness which obscures our ability to see Christ.
In James 1:19-20, “...we are told to be quick to listen…slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” “There is nothing that can be done with anger that cannot be done better without it.” Dallas Willard was in Cassian’s camp.
Psychologists call anger a “secondary emotion” because it masks other sorts of distress. John and Julie Gottman liken our emotional life to an iceberg: only anger shows above the surface, while fear, grief, and shame lurk under water.
What is our anger guarding? Is it our deepest attachments to worldly desires or the most significant sources of our identity? Wrath reveals idolatrous attachments and our prideful sense of self. Disrespect rankles us. It is a struggle to take a breath and give grace.
How can we thwart this powerful vice? We hope you will join us as we go over the virtue that can kibosh wrath. Good-bye wrath, Hello Gentleness!
Mar 22, 202422:14
The Brothers Karamazov, Part 1 By: Fyodor Dostoevsky
Welcome back, Recapsters! In this episode of the Recap Book Chat, we delve into the rich tapestry of Fyodor Dostoevsky's masterpiece, "The Brothers Karamazov." Settle in with your favorite cup of tea as we embark on a journey through the complex dynamics of faith, doubt, and familial bonds.
First, let's meet the titular characters: Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha Karamazov, three brothers who couldn't be more different yet are deeply interconnected. Dmitri, the passionate and impulsive eldest brother, Ivan, the intellectual skeptic grappling with existential questions, and Alyoshai, the pious and compassionate youngest brother, serve as mirrors reflecting the multifaceted nature of the human soul.
Their father, Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov, is a deeply flawed and hedonistic man whose actions cast a long shadow over his sons' lives. Fyodor's contentious relationships with his sons, coupled with his libertine lifestyle, serve as catalysts for the unfolding drama within the novel.
Central to "The Brothers Karamazov" is the exploration of faith and doubt. Dostoevsky masterfully weaves existential and religious themes throughout the narrative, inviting readers to ponder the nature of belief in the face of moral ambiguity and suffering. Ivan's famous philosophical dilemma, the "Grand Inquisitor" chapter, challenges conventional notions of faith, while Alyosha's unwavering devotion to his faith provides a counterbalance.
As we sip on our Honeybush tea, we'll discuss how Dostoevsky skillfully navigates the labyrinth of human consciousness, inviting readers to confront their own existential quandaries.
In this first part of our exploration of "The Brothers Karamazov," we've only scratched the surface of Dostoevsky's magnum opus. Join us in the next episode as we delve deeper into the intricate plot twists, profound character developments, and timeless philosophical questions that make this novel a literary classic.
Fear not dear listener, no spoilers in this episode in case you haven't yet embarked on the journey of "The Brothers Karamazov," yet.
Until then, keep sipping, keep reading, stay on track and read your stack. Cheers!
First, let's meet the titular characters: Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha Karamazov, three brothers who couldn't be more different yet are deeply interconnected. Dmitri, the passionate and impulsive eldest brother, Ivan, the intellectual skeptic grappling with existential questions, and Alyoshai, the pious and compassionate youngest brother, serve as mirrors reflecting the multifaceted nature of the human soul.
Their father, Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov, is a deeply flawed and hedonistic man whose actions cast a long shadow over his sons' lives. Fyodor's contentious relationships with his sons, coupled with his libertine lifestyle, serve as catalysts for the unfolding drama within the novel.
Central to "The Brothers Karamazov" is the exploration of faith and doubt. Dostoevsky masterfully weaves existential and religious themes throughout the narrative, inviting readers to ponder the nature of belief in the face of moral ambiguity and suffering. Ivan's famous philosophical dilemma, the "Grand Inquisitor" chapter, challenges conventional notions of faith, while Alyosha's unwavering devotion to his faith provides a counterbalance.
As we sip on our Honeybush tea, we'll discuss how Dostoevsky skillfully navigates the labyrinth of human consciousness, inviting readers to confront their own existential quandaries.
In this first part of our exploration of "The Brothers Karamazov," we've only scratched the surface of Dostoevsky's magnum opus. Join us in the next episode as we delve deeper into the intricate plot twists, profound character developments, and timeless philosophical questions that make this novel a literary classic.
Fear not dear listener, no spoilers in this episode in case you haven't yet embarked on the journey of "The Brothers Karamazov," yet.
Until then, keep sipping, keep reading, stay on track and read your stack. Cheers!
Mar 19, 202434:18
The Four Tendencies by Gretchin Rubin
Greetings Recapsters! For this episode, we discuss Gretchin Rubin’s book, The Four Tendencies, where she discusses how people respond to inner (stop nagging) and outer (traffic laws) expectations. She also wrote Better than Before to help us discover why some people can form habits more easily than others.How do we change? Habits are the invisible architecture of our lives. 40% of our daily behaviors are repeated, why not harness this information to gain self-knowledge that will help us adopt habits successfully? 41% of the population are Obligers. “You can count on me and I’m counting on you to count on me.” They are motivated by external expectations and struggle with inner expectations and with saying no. 24% of the people fall into the Questioner category. “I will comply if you convince me why.” They are motivated by clarity, reason, logic and fairness. They can have bouts of analysis paralysis. 19% of folks are Upholders. These are the people that respond readily to inner and outer expectations. Discipline is their freedom. 17% fall into the Rebel category. “You can’t make me, and neither can I.” This group places a high value on authenticity and acts best when you give them the information and let them make a choice. Our tendencies color the way we see the world. If you want to take the short quiz to discover your tendency click here. Thank you for joining us on our quest to read the best!
Mar 13, 202424:18
Bonus Bite-“Greed or Avarice” from Glittering Vices by Rebecca DeYoung
Glittering Vice # 4 — Avarice
What do Ebenezer Scrooge, King Ahab, Lot, and King Midas all have in common? They all give us a clear picture of the vice of avarice. They put themselves first. Did Scrooge even see Tiny Tim? Did Ahab understand why Naboth said ‘no deal’? Why didn’t Lot insist that Abram have first choice on the land? Why didn’t Midas appreciate what he had? What causes this unquenchable desire for more, more, more? Horace’s pithy quote packs a punch,
“The one who is greedy is always in want.”
Sadly, greed corrodes the virtue of generosity and also leads us to shun the claims of justice. “Our greedy tendency to trust in wealth for happiness and security undercuts our trust in God.”
In Glittering Vices, Rebecca DeYoung puts it in a nutshell, “Those with well-entrenched avarice are willing to use people to serve their love of money, rather than using money to serve their love for people.”
Our attachment needs to be to God, the great provider and we should NOT seek to take over God’s role. When we give to others we are offering the world a picture of God’s heart.
“Detaching from material goods means using them as a means to a great end which is attachment to God and to fellow human beings.”
Please join us as we try to flesh out a strong desire of the flesh…by knowing our own weaknesses we can struggle to be free from the grip of this vice.
Good-bye greed, Hello trust!
What do Ebenezer Scrooge, King Ahab, Lot, and King Midas all have in common? They all give us a clear picture of the vice of avarice. They put themselves first. Did Scrooge even see Tiny Tim? Did Ahab understand why Naboth said ‘no deal’? Why didn’t Lot insist that Abram have first choice on the land? Why didn’t Midas appreciate what he had? What causes this unquenchable desire for more, more, more? Horace’s pithy quote packs a punch,
“The one who is greedy is always in want.”
Sadly, greed corrodes the virtue of generosity and also leads us to shun the claims of justice. “Our greedy tendency to trust in wealth for happiness and security undercuts our trust in God.”
In Glittering Vices, Rebecca DeYoung puts it in a nutshell, “Those with well-entrenched avarice are willing to use people to serve their love of money, rather than using money to serve their love for people.”
Our attachment needs to be to God, the great provider and we should NOT seek to take over God’s role. When we give to others we are offering the world a picture of God’s heart.
“Detaching from material goods means using them as a means to a great end which is attachment to God and to fellow human beings.”
Please join us as we try to flesh out a strong desire of the flesh…by knowing our own weaknesses we can struggle to be free from the grip of this vice.
Good-bye greed, Hello trust!
Mar 07, 202417:32
Letters From Rifka by Karen Hesse
Letters From Rifka by Karen Hesse is told entirely in letter format, so here we go:
Dear Reader,
The year is 1919 in the month of September when Rifka (age 12) and her family make their escape from Russia. Sadly, the trip to America was eventful. In Poland, Rifka and her family got typhus except for her ornery brother Saul. After the family recovered their journey continued. Rifka befriends a Russian peasant on the train by fixing her hair. The vivid description of the peasant’s scalp by the author is graphic so when Rifka is diagnosed with ringworm, there is no doubt where she caught it. Her long golden curls fall out. But there is something worse than losing her curls, losing her family. Her family must continue the journey to America where jobs await them. What will become of Rifka, astute readers ask? How does she survive? Fortunately, the country of Belgium opens its arms to immigrants. “That is what you are when you are wandering between two worlds.” Rifka is left with mama’s locket and papa’s prayer shawl.
A kind Sister treats her ringworm everyday. She receives hospitality from a generous couple who share their home with her for about a year until her condition is completely healed.
Finally, she is on to America! After waiting for a year, imagine her dismay when the Americans refuse to let her in because she is bald. During her journey, Rifka has been writing her cousin on the white spaces found around the poems in the Pushkin poetry book Tovah gifted her when her family left Russia.
Rifka has the gift of language but better than knowing different languages is her gift of compassion for the hurting. The orphan baby with typhus becomes her mission as does the 7 year old Russian peasant boy that will not talk or eat. Can she help them? Will she be reunited with her family?
“Suddenly I realize how defenseless we are —not just Jews, all of us…I realize how precious our lives are. And how brief.”
May you join Rifka on her journey and see her wonderful example of taking life one day at a time and blooming where one is planted!
Your fellow recapsters,
Kate & Sheila
Mar 05, 202428:17
Bonus Bite-“Sloth or Acedia” from Glittering Vices by Rebecca DeYoung
Glittering Vice #3 Acedia (uh·see·dee·uh)
What is acedia? Maybe we should first say what it is not. Acedia is often called sloth. The problem with this term is it helps to camouflage the real vice. Sloth paints a picture of one who has an aversion to work, like Tom Sawyer taking it easy while his friends whitewash the fence. Actually, the lazy person and the busy person can both suffer from hearts afflicted with acedia. The original definition of sloth was lazy about love not work, a faintheartedness accompanied by unhelpful thoughts that threatens our core commitment to our identity. It thwarts our fundamental identity as someone devoted to developing a lifelong relationship with God. Remember Lot’s wife? During the family’s lifesaving rescue, what did she do? Sadly, she looked back. Why? She was reluctant to leave her former life of ease. People with acedia choose to stunt their spiritual growth by avoiding the tough stuff while we work feverishly on minor things that are ‘urgent’. Ouch!
Aquinas defined acedia as “aversion to the divine good in us.” We are made in the image of God, but we have many struggles to overcome to stay focused on pleasing Him. These struggles come daily so our response to them must be daily. Think about it, relationships need to be invested in to thrive, whether they’re with God or family or friends. When acedia creeps in those relationships flounder instead of flourish.
What can we do? Relationships need sacrifice, nurturing, and effort. We cannot exterminate this vice without consistent commitment. Our love for God, our choice to be like Him, must be lived out day after day as we dedicate ourselves to developing and deepening our relationship with our Heavenly Father and the relationships of those near and dear, whether we feel like it or not. This daily discipline, this perseverance, this weaning off worldly wants and learning to enjoy God’s presence is a process. Join us as we struggle, with our Father’s help, to overcome this vice that often goes under the radar.
Good-bye acedia, Hello diligence!
What is acedia? Maybe we should first say what it is not. Acedia is often called sloth. The problem with this term is it helps to camouflage the real vice. Sloth paints a picture of one who has an aversion to work, like Tom Sawyer taking it easy while his friends whitewash the fence. Actually, the lazy person and the busy person can both suffer from hearts afflicted with acedia. The original definition of sloth was lazy about love not work, a faintheartedness accompanied by unhelpful thoughts that threatens our core commitment to our identity. It thwarts our fundamental identity as someone devoted to developing a lifelong relationship with God. Remember Lot’s wife? During the family’s lifesaving rescue, what did she do? Sadly, she looked back. Why? She was reluctant to leave her former life of ease. People with acedia choose to stunt their spiritual growth by avoiding the tough stuff while we work feverishly on minor things that are ‘urgent’. Ouch!
Aquinas defined acedia as “aversion to the divine good in us.” We are made in the image of God, but we have many struggles to overcome to stay focused on pleasing Him. These struggles come daily so our response to them must be daily. Think about it, relationships need to be invested in to thrive, whether they’re with God or family or friends. When acedia creeps in those relationships flounder instead of flourish.
What can we do? Relationships need sacrifice, nurturing, and effort. We cannot exterminate this vice without consistent commitment. Our love for God, our choice to be like Him, must be lived out day after day as we dedicate ourselves to developing and deepening our relationship with our Heavenly Father and the relationships of those near and dear, whether we feel like it or not. This daily discipline, this perseverance, this weaning off worldly wants and learning to enjoy God’s presence is a process. Join us as we struggle, with our Father’s help, to overcome this vice that often goes under the radar.
Good-bye acedia, Hello diligence!
Feb 29, 202420:38
The Wingfeather Saga, book 1, On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness by Andrew Peterson
Join Titus, Kate, & Sheila as they discuss The Wingfeather Saga, book 1,
On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness. They meet Janner, a 12 year old questioner, Tink, a brave 11 year old with a fear of heights, and Leeli, their younger sister who has a twisted leg and a dog named Nugget. The kids live with their mom, Nia, and their grandfather, Podo, an ex-pirate with a pegleg. The Igiby family lives in a land that has been taken over by flagitious forces. This gritty determined family endures many hard times because the brutal Fangs have the family’s homeland in their cruel clutches.
On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is filled with enlightening quotes:
“It does no good to worry over what’s already happened. What matters is now. The past and future are both beyond our reach.” Nia told the boys this after Slarb took Leeli.
Podo, the grandfather, shares his wisdom.
“To think too long on what might happen is a fool’s business.”
“Part of being a man is putting others' needs before your own.”
“Lad, it’s one thing to be poor in pocket—nothing wrong with that. But poor in heart—that’s no good. Look at them. They’re sad in the eyes, and it’s a sadness no amount of money could repair. Why, they hardly remember what it’s like to laugh from the belly anymore.”
Titus started his summary with the Igbys wanted freedom…Isn’t that a quest for us all?
Freedom doesn’t come easy, dangers and struggles ensnare,
Be bold dear readers, be aware—
Discover the truth if you dare!
Feb 28, 202424:09
Bonus Bite-“Envy” from Glittering Vices by Rebecca DeYoung
Glittering Vice #2 Envy
What is envy? Rebecca DeYoung explains this vice so well. “Jealousy is envy’s close cousin. Both are personal and related to love. The jealous “have” something or someone they love but might lose. The envious, by contrast, are the “have-nots”--they do not have the good their rival does, and they do not have self-love either.”
Let’s look at two athletes and contrast the differences. In 1924, Eric Liddell raced against Harold Abrahams in the 400 meter race in the Olympics. Eric said he felt God's pleasure whenever he ran, not when he won. (This explained why he confidently switched to a race he had not trained for because he would not compete in the 100 meter that was held on Sunday.) Harold devoted himself to winning. Winning was his goal and the fear of losing was what drove him. What is driving us?
We all need to be loved and found worthy but the envier makes it competitive.
“Envy is ever joined to the comparing of man’s self; and where there is no comparison, no envy.”
--Francis Bacon
To escape this vice we must find a different foundation for our self-worth as we work on a new vision of who we are, unconditionally beloved children of God. There’s a lot of talk about identity. We should all rest assured and repeat— I am a child of God! My worth is found in my Creator.
Let’s reframe our vision of the world, ourselves, and others beginning with a change of heart.
Please join us as we strive to exchange fear and resentment for gratitude and contentment.
Good-bye envy, Hello love.
What is envy? Rebecca DeYoung explains this vice so well. “Jealousy is envy’s close cousin. Both are personal and related to love. The jealous “have” something or someone they love but might lose. The envious, by contrast, are the “have-nots”--they do not have the good their rival does, and they do not have self-love either.”
Let’s look at two athletes and contrast the differences. In 1924, Eric Liddell raced against Harold Abrahams in the 400 meter race in the Olympics. Eric said he felt God's pleasure whenever he ran, not when he won. (This explained why he confidently switched to a race he had not trained for because he would not compete in the 100 meter that was held on Sunday.) Harold devoted himself to winning. Winning was his goal and the fear of losing was what drove him. What is driving us?
We all need to be loved and found worthy but the envier makes it competitive.
“Envy is ever joined to the comparing of man’s self; and where there is no comparison, no envy.”
--Francis Bacon
To escape this vice we must find a different foundation for our self-worth as we work on a new vision of who we are, unconditionally beloved children of God. There’s a lot of talk about identity. We should all rest assured and repeat— I am a child of God! My worth is found in my Creator.
Let’s reframe our vision of the world, ourselves, and others beginning with a change of heart.
Please join us as we strive to exchange fear and resentment for gratitude and contentment.
Good-bye envy, Hello love.
Feb 23, 202416:13
Saving My Assassin by Virginia Prodan
In Saving My Assassin readers meet Virginia Prodan in Communist Romania in 1961. This powerful memoir begins with this quote, “I should be dead. Buried in an unmarked grave in Romania. Obviously, I am not. God had other plans.” Virginia was a real-life Cinderella, she was forced to do all the work while her siblings played. Her mother threatened to put her up for adoption, dyed her red hair black so she would blend in and never once in 18 years made her a birthday cake or said a kind word. The family went on a vacation to Bucharest every year while Virginia stayed home to work. After she finishes school, she goes to Bucharest to stay with her Aunt Cassandra to prepare to take a test to see if she will be accepted into law school. This was a memorial time for Virginia. Her aunt showed her kindness that she had never had as a child. During this time, she meets Radu and the two eventually marry. Virginia was grown before she was told, “I believe in you. I will help you as long as you are teachable” by Vera Poescu, a lawyer with spine problems but very strong in heart. Virginia was a seeker of truth her whole life. The first scripture to impact her was John 14:6, “I am the Way and the truth and the life.” For years, she’d been searching for truth in the wrong places. Her faith in God strengthened her and sustained through the worst of times. When she entered courtrooms she thought, “This is His battle and I am His tool.” Please join Kate and Sheila as they recap Saving My Assassin in which the author profoundly lives out Stephen Covey’s quote, “I am not a product of my circumstances. I am a product of my choices.”
This is the episode of the podcast where I first heard about Virginia and here is her website.
Feb 20, 202431:02
Twenty and Ten by Claire Huchet Bishop
Are you looking for a novella to introduce your children to WWII? Twenty and Ten by Claire Huchet Bishop fits the bill. Twenty French kids are living at a Catholic school during the German occupation of France. They agree to hide 10 Jewish orphans. This book was inspired by a true story. The kids are told by Sister Gabrielle that if they say yes they cannot tell about the Jewish children no matter what the Nazis do to them. It is a tale of kindness and integrity that needs to be told. Friendship begins over shared soup and a small piece of chocolate. The Flight to Egypt Game cleverly connects Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus having to flee to escape King Herod just as the Jewish children must hide to escape the Nazis. The climax comes quickly in this page-turner. Sister Gabrielle doesn’t return on her trip to get the school’s food rations. Nazi soldiers try to bribe the hungry kids with food. How will the Jewish kids hold up in the cramped cave? Will the French children be able to hold up to the intense pressure? What a wonderful story to share with kids or grandkids! Join Kate, Sheila and Jonah as they recap this historical fiction jewel!
Feb 13, 202425:50
Bonus Bite-“Vain Glory” from Glittering Vices by Rebecca DeYoung
Bonus Book Bite - Greetings! As Kate and I are reading through Rebecca DeYoung’s Glittering Vices, we pondered doing short podcasts on each of the seven deadly sins and their positive counterparts. Please join us as we break this valuable information into bite size pieces.
What is a vice? Vices are corruptive and destructive habits while virtues help us to live and act well, to be solutions instead of instigate problems. C.S. Lewis wrote The Screwtape Letters in a backward format so we would know the enemy’s game plan to help us maneuver more succinctly through this broken world as we strive to be aligned with God.
“Naming our sins is the confessional counterpart to counting our blessings…The project of becoming like Christ is our life’s most important task. C.S. Lewis once said, ‘We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea.’...Once we identify our moral corruption as a muddy puddle we want to leave behind, we are faced with the challenge of re-forming our habits from vice into virtue—” Thus, our journey begins…
The first glittering vice is vainglory, the excessive and disordered desire for approval from others. Pride wants to excel above others while vainglory hinges on display,letting others know how great you are. Think Gaston from Beauty and the Beast. We call pride and vainglory vices because they distort our desire of good things. In Matthew 23:27-28, Jesus criticized the Pharisees for their showiness that was done to be seen by man.
Boastfulness, bragging, dominating the conversation are all examples of vainglory. Enough of the vice, what is the antidote?
In 2 Cor. 10:17-18, Paul writes, “Let us boast in the Lord…”
We need to devote ourselves to a life that glorifies God, seeks to please Him, and yields control to Him, this takes humility. The desire to control our own happiness comes from fear or overconfidence not from God. We are known and loved by God. He is our Father.
Let us practice…
silence and solitude alone with Him
unplugging from social media
listening to others ATTENTIVELY (not just to respond) Ouch!
serving others
Are you ready to grow together? Good-bye- vainglory… Hello- humility!
What is a vice? Vices are corruptive and destructive habits while virtues help us to live and act well, to be solutions instead of instigate problems. C.S. Lewis wrote The Screwtape Letters in a backward format so we would know the enemy’s game plan to help us maneuver more succinctly through this broken world as we strive to be aligned with God.
“Naming our sins is the confessional counterpart to counting our blessings…The project of becoming like Christ is our life’s most important task. C.S. Lewis once said, ‘We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea.’...Once we identify our moral corruption as a muddy puddle we want to leave behind, we are faced with the challenge of re-forming our habits from vice into virtue—” Thus, our journey begins…
The first glittering vice is vainglory, the excessive and disordered desire for approval from others. Pride wants to excel above others while vainglory hinges on display,letting others know how great you are. Think Gaston from Beauty and the Beast. We call pride and vainglory vices because they distort our desire of good things. In Matthew 23:27-28, Jesus criticized the Pharisees for their showiness that was done to be seen by man.
Boastfulness, bragging, dominating the conversation are all examples of vainglory. Enough of the vice, what is the antidote?
In 2 Cor. 10:17-18, Paul writes, “Let us boast in the Lord…”
We need to devote ourselves to a life that glorifies God, seeks to please Him, and yields control to Him, this takes humility. The desire to control our own happiness comes from fear or overconfidence not from God. We are known and loved by God. He is our Father.
Let us practice…
silence and solitude alone with Him
unplugging from social media
listening to others ATTENTIVELY (not just to respond) Ouch!
serving others
Are you ready to grow together? Good-bye- vainglory… Hello- humility!
Feb 09, 202410:43
The Refugee By Alan Gratz
Can readers follow families in 1939, 1994, and 2015 as each one seeks to survive unbelievable circumstances in uncertain times? Alan Gratz gives us the chance in Refugee. We meet Josef and his family as they escape their homeland, Germany, and board the MS St. Louis heading for Cuba. Next, Isabel and her family board a small homemade boat built by their neighbors to travel to America. Their passage would have been refused if not for Isabel’s fast-thinking. She sold her prized trumpet to buy gas for the journey. Lastly, Mahmoud and his family of four are exiting Syria as quickly as possible after their apartment building was bombed. Will his family make it to Germany? Follow each family in different decades with different dilemmas as they struggle to move forward while striving to stay together.
Mahmoud tried to stay invisible until he discovered…
“If you were invisible, the bad people couldn’t hurt you, that was true. But the good people couldn't see you either.”
Join Kate and Sheila as they dive into this beautiful weaving of three stories into a common thread of family, hope, and love.
Please check out the Love Better podcast. It will enrich your life. podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/loves-formula/id1662597316?i=1000627569498
Mahmoud tried to stay invisible until he discovered…
“If you were invisible, the bad people couldn’t hurt you, that was true. But the good people couldn't see you either.”
Join Kate and Sheila as they dive into this beautiful weaving of three stories into a common thread of family, hope, and love.
Please check out the Love Better podcast. It will enrich your life. podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/loves-formula/id1662597316?i=1000627569498
Feb 06, 202429:46
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris
The Tattooist of Auschwitz, the debut novel for the gifted author, Heather Morris, was written while building a three year relationship with Lale Sokolov. Readers are taken back to April of 1942. Lale took his married brother’s place to protect his family. The harrowing journey taken by this kind, caring and compassionate man is one of tragedy, hope, and perseverance.
Lale and the others were herded into a cattle car. Some men were telling him to help them bust out of the cattle car but he cleverly replied, “If these walls could be breached don’t you think a cow would’ve done it?” His witty comment calms them down and eases the frustration felt by all.
They were taken to Auschwitz where Lale got typhus and was thrown on a cart for the dead. A young man pushed him off and the tattooist helped heal him and trained him to number the prisoners. Lale first met Gita as he numbered those entering Auschwitz. He asked how her day had been, she deftly answered, “Oh, you know how it is. Got up, had a big breakfast, kissed Mama and Papa goodbye before catching the bus to work…” to which Lale replied, “OK, dumb question.” Lale falls instantly and totally in love with this girl, 34902.
Can love take root in conditions that are deplorable? The answer is yes! Lale and Gita proved it. Heather Morris shows readers the love story of a lifetime through the eyes of a sensitive soul. We learn how Lale and Gita’s love impacted those around them. As Dana, Gita’s friend said, “ It’s enough that one of us has a little happiness, we share in it.”
Lale’s mother had once told him to be a good husband, “…learn to listen to her, learn what she likes and more important what she doesn’t like.” This conversation occurred because Lale’s dad was distant and cold. Lale didn’t want to be like him so he sought the advice of his kind and caring mother.
This story helps us learn to love better. “To save one is to save the world.”
Lale and the others were herded into a cattle car. Some men were telling him to help them bust out of the cattle car but he cleverly replied, “If these walls could be breached don’t you think a cow would’ve done it?” His witty comment calms them down and eases the frustration felt by all.
They were taken to Auschwitz where Lale got typhus and was thrown on a cart for the dead. A young man pushed him off and the tattooist helped heal him and trained him to number the prisoners. Lale first met Gita as he numbered those entering Auschwitz. He asked how her day had been, she deftly answered, “Oh, you know how it is. Got up, had a big breakfast, kissed Mama and Papa goodbye before catching the bus to work…” to which Lale replied, “OK, dumb question.” Lale falls instantly and totally in love with this girl, 34902.
Can love take root in conditions that are deplorable? The answer is yes! Lale and Gita proved it. Heather Morris shows readers the love story of a lifetime through the eyes of a sensitive soul. We learn how Lale and Gita’s love impacted those around them. As Dana, Gita’s friend said, “ It’s enough that one of us has a little happiness, we share in it.”
Lale’s mother had once told him to be a good husband, “…learn to listen to her, learn what she likes and more important what she doesn’t like.” This conversation occurred because Lale’s dad was distant and cold. Lale didn’t want to be like him so he sought the advice of his kind and caring mother.
This story helps us learn to love better. “To save one is to save the world.”
Jan 31, 202439:05
The Forest of the Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel
Yona’s mentor, Jerusza, left her with many skills to survive and even thrive in the unforgiving forest of eastern Europe, but she also left her with many unanswered questions. Why did she kidnap Yona from her German family? Why did she tell her their names just before she died? Why did she teach Yona how to kill a man? Jerusaza said the universe was about balance, for each method of death, she taught Yona a way to dispense healing, too.
She taught her many languages and how to read, but Jerusza never appreciated or answered Yona’s questions.
“She drank the books down like cool water and listened with rapt attention whenever Jerusza deigned to impart her secrets.” Maybe we can learn a lesson from Yona. Take people on their own terms, accept them as they are without attempting to change them. The only person any of us can change is the one in the mirror
“Perhaps God gives us the answers before we know what the questions will be.” Yona was a sponge and she soaked up the learning offered to her. Will she ever meet her real family? Jerusza had said, “Lives are circles spinning across the world, and when they’re meant to intersect again they do.”
Yona’s solitary life ends when she discovers a group of Jewish refugees fleeing from the Nazi terror in 1942. Yona’s big heart also accepts a second group of Jews without hesitation, however, the first group she rescued is disgruntled by her willingness to help another group of refugees. Isn’t life puzzling?
Later, a conflict causes Yona to leave the refugees. She doesn’t leave her caring heart behind. She runs across a nun trying to save a little girl after her parents were killed and she jumps in to help.
Maria Andrzeja tells Yona, “Do not be afraid to ask questions. But you must always be sure your heart is open to hear the answers.”
It is hard for Yona to realize how cruel the Nazis are! When the soldiers line up the nuns to kill them Yona is devastated! Maria tells her, “God is your father, and He is always with you.”
She feels broken and helpless. How can she help? She remembers one of the refugees that had lost his family before his eyes once told her, “It’s the cracks in us that make us who we are.”
If you are ready for an adventure that you will not soon forget, join Kate and Sheila as they recap this unforgettable book, The Forest of the Vanishing Stars!
She taught her many languages and how to read, but Jerusza never appreciated or answered Yona’s questions.
“She drank the books down like cool water and listened with rapt attention whenever Jerusza deigned to impart her secrets.” Maybe we can learn a lesson from Yona. Take people on their own terms, accept them as they are without attempting to change them. The only person any of us can change is the one in the mirror
“Perhaps God gives us the answers before we know what the questions will be.” Yona was a sponge and she soaked up the learning offered to her. Will she ever meet her real family? Jerusza had said, “Lives are circles spinning across the world, and when they’re meant to intersect again they do.”
Yona’s solitary life ends when she discovers a group of Jewish refugees fleeing from the Nazi terror in 1942. Yona’s big heart also accepts a second group of Jews without hesitation, however, the first group she rescued is disgruntled by her willingness to help another group of refugees. Isn’t life puzzling?
Later, a conflict causes Yona to leave the refugees. She doesn’t leave her caring heart behind. She runs across a nun trying to save a little girl after her parents were killed and she jumps in to help.
Maria Andrzeja tells Yona, “Do not be afraid to ask questions. But you must always be sure your heart is open to hear the answers.”
It is hard for Yona to realize how cruel the Nazis are! When the soldiers line up the nuns to kill them Yona is devastated! Maria tells her, “God is your father, and He is always with you.”
She feels broken and helpless. How can she help? She remembers one of the refugees that had lost his family before his eyes once told her, “It’s the cracks in us that make us who we are.”
If you are ready for an adventure that you will not soon forget, join Kate and Sheila as they recap this unforgettable book, The Forest of the Vanishing Stars!
Jan 23, 202436:13
Kizzy Ann Stamps by Jeri Watts
Let’s meet Kizzy Ann Stamps and her dog, Shag. Kizzy Ann is called Moon Child by her mama because when she was younger the neighbor boy accidentally let his scythe drop and her face was cut from just under her eye to her mouth in a crescent moon shape. She has never forgiven Frank Charles for her injury.
Mrs. Warren, Kizzy’s old teacher, encouraged all her students to write to their new teacher at the white school. Miss Anderson learns a lot about the life of someone that has the most special dog in the world and a huge scar that people stare at and the many differences between her world and Kizzy Ann’s.
It is 1963 and the schools were integrating but attitudes were far from love thy neighbor.
Kizzy’s brother, James, doesn’t have any teachers like Miss Andersonnin high school. He said his teacher would not put the integrated students on the roll and they wouldn’t even give them books! It was like they were invisible. His JV football team didn’t lose a game but they were never mentioned in the newspaper. Losing a dream is hard. James and his buddies get into mischief. They excite the neighbor’s cows and the cows plow down Frank Charles’ daddy’s shed. Kizzy Ann stared in disbelief when Frank Charles took the blame for what James and his friends had done.
When she asked him why he told her, “It was the right thing to do.”
The author, Jeri Watts, gives readers a look at life during a different era. Step with us into Kizzy Ann’s shoes. Some people do the right thing and others do not!
We meet a cantankerous Scotsman, Mr. McKenna, who trains Shag and Kizzy Ann so they can perform in a dog trial. Will Kizzy Ann and Shag even be allowed to compete?
In the midst of dog training and spelling bees the president is assassinated.
Kizzy Ann expresses her emotions so well. “I cannot believe the upside-downness of the world. I could feel a blanket of sadness covering our school and our state and our nation.”
The kindness of this little book will touch your heart! When Frank Charles’ mama has a seizure and he goes berserk, Kizzy Ann takes charge and calms him down and helps his mama in a gentle way that she’d seen her Sunday School teacher do for a student that had seizures.
It was the right thing to do. Isn’t it funny that we never forget doing the right thing? You won’t regret meeting Kizzy Ann Stamps!
Mrs. Warren, Kizzy’s old teacher, encouraged all her students to write to their new teacher at the white school. Miss Anderson learns a lot about the life of someone that has the most special dog in the world and a huge scar that people stare at and the many differences between her world and Kizzy Ann’s.
It is 1963 and the schools were integrating but attitudes were far from love thy neighbor.
Kizzy’s brother, James, doesn’t have any teachers like Miss Andersonnin high school. He said his teacher would not put the integrated students on the roll and they wouldn’t even give them books! It was like they were invisible. His JV football team didn’t lose a game but they were never mentioned in the newspaper. Losing a dream is hard. James and his buddies get into mischief. They excite the neighbor’s cows and the cows plow down Frank Charles’ daddy’s shed. Kizzy Ann stared in disbelief when Frank Charles took the blame for what James and his friends had done.
When she asked him why he told her, “It was the right thing to do.”
The author, Jeri Watts, gives readers a look at life during a different era. Step with us into Kizzy Ann’s shoes. Some people do the right thing and others do not!
We meet a cantankerous Scotsman, Mr. McKenna, who trains Shag and Kizzy Ann so they can perform in a dog trial. Will Kizzy Ann and Shag even be allowed to compete?
In the midst of dog training and spelling bees the president is assassinated.
Kizzy Ann expresses her emotions so well. “I cannot believe the upside-downness of the world. I could feel a blanket of sadness covering our school and our state and our nation.”
The kindness of this little book will touch your heart! When Frank Charles’ mama has a seizure and he goes berserk, Kizzy Ann takes charge and calms him down and helps his mama in a gentle way that she’d seen her Sunday School teacher do for a student that had seizures.
It was the right thing to do. Isn’t it funny that we never forget doing the right thing? You won’t regret meeting Kizzy Ann Stamps!
Jan 16, 202438:59
Memorizing Scripture by Glenna Marshall
Memorizing Scripture (The Basics, Blessings, and Benefits of Meditating on God’s Word) by Glenna Marshall enriched both Kate and Sheila views on the memorization of God’s word. Please join our recap on this inspiring book about, “...letting the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” Col. 3:16
Sheila discovered this book from Kirk Cameron’s interview with the author on his podcast/youtube. If all worked out the link is below : )
youtu.be/v--YcSsL13w?si=SWb-oilsmm1_rRRd
“I have stored up Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Ps. 119:11
Glenna Marshall encourages us to embrace the slowness of learning scripture. “I want a life that is shaped by God’s word.” She also includes tips that have worked for her and her family.
“From Genesis to Revelation, God is always after the hearts of His people. Like other spiritual disciplines, scripture memory is a journey–not a race. It’s not about recitation, it’s about saturation. The point of memorizing scripture is to grow in our love for Christ.”
This book has a plethora of scripture suggestions to start you off. Are you ready to renew your mind by dwelling on scripture in such a way the constant bombardment of worldly offerings becomes less appealing?
May 2024 bring you joys galore!
Sheila discovered this book from Kirk Cameron’s interview with the author on his podcast/youtube. If all worked out the link is below : )
youtu.be/v--YcSsL13w?si=SWb-oilsmm1_rRRd
“I have stored up Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Ps. 119:11
Glenna Marshall encourages us to embrace the slowness of learning scripture. “I want a life that is shaped by God’s word.” She also includes tips that have worked for her and her family.
“From Genesis to Revelation, God is always after the hearts of His people. Like other spiritual disciplines, scripture memory is a journey–not a race. It’s not about recitation, it’s about saturation. The point of memorizing scripture is to grow in our love for Christ.”
This book has a plethora of scripture suggestions to start you off. Are you ready to renew your mind by dwelling on scripture in such a way the constant bombardment of worldly offerings becomes less appealing?
May 2024 bring you joys galore!
Jan 10, 202435:26
2023 Book Awards!
Greetings Recap Bookchatters! It’s that time of the year when we reflect on the books we’ve read for the year and compare notes : ) Please join Kate and Sheila for this year’s
Book Awards (drum roll please) Are you curious to see if we agree? Have a listen to discover which book gets:
Most Whimsical
Grittiest
Most Unique Format
Best Opening Line
Most Unpredictable
Most Intense
Most Impactful in Society - Packs a Punch
Most Creative
Best Man & Leading Lady Award
Best Ending
Most Enriching - Changed our lives
Stands the Test of Time
Overall Best Book-too good to miss!
Maybe this list might help you get your book stack ready for 2024,
Each winner is a book that we adore!
We are so thankful for each listener, so dear,
May we wish you and yours a Happy New Year!
Dec 31, 202325:55
Two From Galilee by Marjorie Holmes
Two From Galilee was our last book of 2023, which is ironic because it is a book of beginnings. Please join Kate and Sheila as they discuss the beauty of this behind the scene love story of Joseph and Mary. Marjorie Holmes slows the well-known epic event down so readers can get a glimpse of their customs that are so vastly different from those of today. Readers get to experience the emotions and struggles in the life of the young Jewish girl that was chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus. Yes, His virgin birth was predicted, but when it occurred was it recognized or questioned or criticized?
We get to walk with Joseph in his uncertainty of what to do. What a wonderful example of trusting God in all things as Joseph prays, “Oh, God, my God, if this be thy will then so be it. Thy will be done!” This has the same humble tone as Jesus's prayer in the garden the night before He was betrayed.
Mary’s prayer was similar. “Thy will be done,” she whispered one final time, “In this matter of Joseph, let me only obey.”
Mary and Joseph loved each other but pleasing God came before pleasing themselves. What a timely lesson in straightening out our priorities that often get out of alignment!
Joseph was distraught when he was unable to find accommodations, but afterward that thought was pushed aside. “He need berate himself no longer. He had not failed her. Her son had been safely born, and he had helped to bring him forth. So that made him in a new and wondrous sense his son too.”
What a wonderful way to wrap up 2023 and deepen our conviction of always putting God’s will foremost in our lives!
We get to walk with Joseph in his uncertainty of what to do. What a wonderful example of trusting God in all things as Joseph prays, “Oh, God, my God, if this be thy will then so be it. Thy will be done!” This has the same humble tone as Jesus's prayer in the garden the night before He was betrayed.
Mary’s prayer was similar. “Thy will be done,” she whispered one final time, “In this matter of Joseph, let me only obey.”
Mary and Joseph loved each other but pleasing God came before pleasing themselves. What a timely lesson in straightening out our priorities that often get out of alignment!
Joseph was distraught when he was unable to find accommodations, but afterward that thought was pushed aside. “He need berate himself no longer. He had not failed her. Her son had been safely born, and he had helped to bring him forth. So that made him in a new and wondrous sense his son too.”
What a wonderful way to wrap up 2023 and deepen our conviction of always putting God’s will foremost in our lives!
Dec 26, 202337:43
The Puppets of Spelhorst by Kate Dicamlo
The Puppets of Spelhorst by Kate Dicamlo was an amazing read-aloud! Please join Kate, Sheila and their special guest, Titus, as they discuss this unusual story.
An old seaman noticed a girl puppet in a toy store window. He tried to buy her, but the seller said the five puppets must be sold as a group because they have a story to tell. Reluctantly, the seaman bought all the puppets, but he shoved the king, the boy, the owl, and the wolf in his trunk. He propped the girl puppet up on a table and wrote and wrote. Finally finished, he put his letter with the puppets in the trunk with the name, Spelhorst, on the outside. That night the man cried and cried and died.
How can such a sad beginning end lead to such an intriguing tale? The giftedness of the author shines through as readers meet the arrogant king, the adventurous boy, the prideful wolf, the wise owl and the grateful girl. As one might guess, different personalities bring challenges to the box of puppets to which the girl responds, “How will it help us to fight with one another?”
The puppets are sold to a rag and bones man who sells them to the uncle as a gift for his two young nieces. Adventures derail the puppet show for a bit, suspense looms as readers wonder what could be the story these five puppets have to tell. The prideful wolf learns a lesson when the youngest niece removes a tooth from the wolf and tosses it outside where it is picked up by a fox. Inside the fox’s den is a lonely place for the wolf who sums up her feelings,
“It is terrible not to be understood.” Relatable comment, indeed!
What a wonderful read-aloud for any family seeking to spark imaginations and conversations! Humility is also an underlying theme, readers will notice the puppets less fixated on themselves are content and tend to live in the present. Community is another theme that will not be missed as dots are connected in this timely tale. We all have a story to tell, but it cannot be told solo. Embrace those in your circle. When we live out our story well we bless those around us. As the girl puppet reminds us all, “We are happy together and that in itself is a great thing.”
An old seaman noticed a girl puppet in a toy store window. He tried to buy her, but the seller said the five puppets must be sold as a group because they have a story to tell. Reluctantly, the seaman bought all the puppets, but he shoved the king, the boy, the owl, and the wolf in his trunk. He propped the girl puppet up on a table and wrote and wrote. Finally finished, he put his letter with the puppets in the trunk with the name, Spelhorst, on the outside. That night the man cried and cried and died.
How can such a sad beginning end lead to such an intriguing tale? The giftedness of the author shines through as readers meet the arrogant king, the adventurous boy, the prideful wolf, the wise owl and the grateful girl. As one might guess, different personalities bring challenges to the box of puppets to which the girl responds, “How will it help us to fight with one another?”
The puppets are sold to a rag and bones man who sells them to the uncle as a gift for his two young nieces. Adventures derail the puppet show for a bit, suspense looms as readers wonder what could be the story these five puppets have to tell. The prideful wolf learns a lesson when the youngest niece removes a tooth from the wolf and tosses it outside where it is picked up by a fox. Inside the fox’s den is a lonely place for the wolf who sums up her feelings,
“It is terrible not to be understood.” Relatable comment, indeed!
What a wonderful read-aloud for any family seeking to spark imaginations and conversations! Humility is also an underlying theme, readers will notice the puppets less fixated on themselves are content and tend to live in the present. Community is another theme that will not be missed as dots are connected in this timely tale. We all have a story to tell, but it cannot be told solo. Embrace those in your circle. When we live out our story well we bless those around us. As the girl puppet reminds us all, “We are happy together and that in itself is a great thing.”
Dec 19, 202327:57
A Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg
As a baby, Oswald T. Campbell was left on the steps of an orphanage with a can of Campbell’s soup in his basket. Readers meet him as he receives disheartening news from his doctor; he won’t live to see another Christmas if he doesn’t move to a better climate than the Windy City. Sadly, Oswald has no one to share his devastating news with… sounds like a bummer of a book, doesn’t it? But, somehow Fannie Flagg weaves a story of hope, evolving from less concern from self and more concern for others and the tale does a 180. We all have wounds, some are visible, like the young girl, Patsy, who has a crippled leg. Others' hurts are hidden, like Roy who suffers from a broken heart and our protagonist, Oswald, who has been haunted by rejection his whole life.
Oswald goes to Alabama and meets Jack, a redbird that eats Crackerjacks, who helps Roy run the General Store, a crippled girl named Patsy, and a host of other colorful characters. The community envelopes Oswald with love and care. He recognizes he has a talent for painting and he is included in all the community’s events. He helps Patsy not feel so bad about not knowing her birthday when he decides to celebrate Patsy’s, Jack’s and his birthdays altogether because all their birthdays are unknown.
Join us as we recap this heart-warming festive read. The beginning may be dark but trust us the conclusion is the bee’s knees!!! Looking for a delightful holiday read that is about being present rather than getting presents? Try A Redbird Christmas.
Oswald goes to Alabama and meets Jack, a redbird that eats Crackerjacks, who helps Roy run the General Store, a crippled girl named Patsy, and a host of other colorful characters. The community envelopes Oswald with love and care. He recognizes he has a talent for painting and he is included in all the community’s events. He helps Patsy not feel so bad about not knowing her birthday when he decides to celebrate Patsy’s, Jack’s and his birthdays altogether because all their birthdays are unknown.
Join us as we recap this heart-warming festive read. The beginning may be dark but trust us the conclusion is the bee’s knees!!! Looking for a delightful holiday read that is about being present rather than getting presents? Try A Redbird Christmas.
Dec 12, 202331:56
Hamlet By William Shakespeare
Do you know Shakespeare’s longest play? Here’s a clue, “To be or not to be, that is the question.” Hamlet is the answer. This play has been translated into 75 languages, even Klingon! We discovered a plethora of quotes:
“Brevity is the soul of wit.”
“Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.”
“The lady protests too much, methinks.”
“…dog will have his day”
“…sweets to the sweet”
“…to thine own self be true”
Shakespheare shows his wonderful wordsmithery as he weaves this timeless tale of brotherly love that took a wrong turn reminiscent of Cain and Abel. Hamlet’s father was poisoned by his power hungry brother and a month later this unsavory fellow becomes Hamlet’s stepfather when he marries Hamlet’s mom, prompting the classic line, “Frailty, thy name is woman.”
The reader is bombarded with an abundance of themes:
Truth vs Deception
Thought vs Action
Madness vs Revenge
Mortality-we are all shuffling off this mortal coil…
For those that aren’t squeamish about the main character talking to a skull, fighting in a freshly dug grave, and dueling with poisoned weapons this is the play to be read, just remember it lives up to the name tragedy. Instead of “Get thee to a nunnery” one might get thee to a library or a bookstore to meet Hamlet and “friends”.
One funny quote was when Hamlet was asked what he was reading he replied, “Words, words, words.” Please join Kate and I as we recap Shakespeare’s tragedy in which Hamlet tells the lovely Ophelia, “I must be cruel, only to be kind.” What is going on in this guy’s head?
“Brevity is the soul of wit.”
“Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.”
“The lady protests too much, methinks.”
“…dog will have his day”
“…sweets to the sweet”
“…to thine own self be true”
Shakespheare shows his wonderful wordsmithery as he weaves this timeless tale of brotherly love that took a wrong turn reminiscent of Cain and Abel. Hamlet’s father was poisoned by his power hungry brother and a month later this unsavory fellow becomes Hamlet’s stepfather when he marries Hamlet’s mom, prompting the classic line, “Frailty, thy name is woman.”
The reader is bombarded with an abundance of themes:
Truth vs Deception
Thought vs Action
Madness vs Revenge
Mortality-we are all shuffling off this mortal coil…
For those that aren’t squeamish about the main character talking to a skull, fighting in a freshly dug grave, and dueling with poisoned weapons this is the play to be read, just remember it lives up to the name tragedy. Instead of “Get thee to a nunnery” one might get thee to a library or a bookstore to meet Hamlet and “friends”.
One funny quote was when Hamlet was asked what he was reading he replied, “Words, words, words.” Please join Kate and I as we recap Shakespeare’s tragedy in which Hamlet tells the lovely Ophelia, “I must be cruel, only to be kind.” What is going on in this guy’s head?
Dec 05, 202335:43
The Mysterious Affair at Styles by Agatha Christie
Please join Kate and Sheila as they meet a classic character, Hercule Poirot, in his first appearance as the Belgian detective in Agatha Christie’s, The Mysterious Affair at Styles.
The story is told from the viewpoint of Hastings, a soldier wounded in WW I who comes to his wealthy friend John Cavendish’s estate in need of a place to convalesce.
During his visit, John’s stepmother, Emily Inglethorp is murdered with poison!
Hastings seeks the help of Poirot, his acquaintance who is blessed with gifted insight which is greatly needed in this case where suspects abound.
“You gave too much rein to your imagination. Imagination is a good servant, and a bad master” was the advice Poirot gave Hastings, who considers himself to be somewhat of a junior detective. Hastings would prefer that Poirot just tell him what he notices and concludes instead of making him figure things out on his own. Although this format is frustrating to Hastings it is intriguing for readers because we get to be sleuths too!
“If the fact will not fit the theory–let the theory go.” Clues abound in this who-done-it, the trouble is some are important and some are red herrings. See if you can solve the case before Poirot!
Don’t worry there are no spoilers in this episode, just a quick gist of the story. Put on your trench coat and get a magnifying glass and get ready to give your brain a workout!
The story is told from the viewpoint of Hastings, a soldier wounded in WW I who comes to his wealthy friend John Cavendish’s estate in need of a place to convalesce.
During his visit, John’s stepmother, Emily Inglethorp is murdered with poison!
Hastings seeks the help of Poirot, his acquaintance who is blessed with gifted insight which is greatly needed in this case where suspects abound.
“You gave too much rein to your imagination. Imagination is a good servant, and a bad master” was the advice Poirot gave Hastings, who considers himself to be somewhat of a junior detective. Hastings would prefer that Poirot just tell him what he notices and concludes instead of making him figure things out on his own. Although this format is frustrating to Hastings it is intriguing for readers because we get to be sleuths too!
“If the fact will not fit the theory–let the theory go.” Clues abound in this who-done-it, the trouble is some are important and some are red herrings. See if you can solve the case before Poirot!
Don’t worry there are no spoilers in this episode, just a quick gist of the story. Put on your trench coat and get a magnifying glass and get ready to give your brain a workout!
Nov 28, 202318:37
Habits of the Household by Justin Earley
Join Kate and Sheila as they recap one of the most impactful books they’ve read this year.
Habits of the Household by Justin Whitmel Earley starts with a powerful rephrased Frederick Douglass quote, “It is easier to raise strong children than to repair broken men and women” and then he goes on from there to supply readers with the nuts and bolts (ideas) on how to raise strong kids.
Favorite quotes abound! Here are just a few:
“The heart always follows the habit.”
“Nothing important is easy.”
“The struggle against boredom is really just the struggle against a fallen imagination.”
“Send kids to bed with a settled soul.”
“The human heart is never not being shaped by something, it is not a car, there is no neutral.”
“The final role of a parent is to keep looking to Jesus.”
The Pyramid of Discipline is a blessing to both kids and parents!
It starts with loving authority for the foundation.
There are 5 parts to the second level:
1. Pause
2. Prayer
3. Body Language
4. Understanding
5. Consequences
Level 3 Confession
Level 4 Reconciliation (he has his boys hug until they smile) : )
He discusses how limits are positive (not a surprise to those who’ve read the Boundaries book)
and connects it to Jesus taking on the limits of being a man, disciplining Himself into a life of sacrifice. Why? So we could be free from the ultimate limitation of sin and death.
We loved the sending prayer for families as they are leaving the house:
Father, thank You for this day.
Bless us as we work, study, and play.
Be present with us in all we do.
May we bring glory and honor to You.
In Jesus name
Justin suggests lighting a candle before mealtime and having the children say, “Jesus is the light” Then he shares a game he came up with out of necessity (the mother of invention) called The Pepper Game. Whoever is holding the pepper shaker asks a question then he/she passes the shaker. The holder of the shaker answers the question and passes the shaker to the next person. We tried this out with young and old and it was a hit! Everyone learns to listen!
Trust us, this book is TOO good to miss! It will bless you in a plethora of ways!
Adding value to daily routines that will impact your kids for the rest of their days!
Habits of the Household by Justin Whitmel Earley starts with a powerful rephrased Frederick Douglass quote, “It is easier to raise strong children than to repair broken men and women” and then he goes on from there to supply readers with the nuts and bolts (ideas) on how to raise strong kids.
Favorite quotes abound! Here are just a few:
“The heart always follows the habit.”
“Nothing important is easy.”
“The struggle against boredom is really just the struggle against a fallen imagination.”
“Send kids to bed with a settled soul.”
“The human heart is never not being shaped by something, it is not a car, there is no neutral.”
“The final role of a parent is to keep looking to Jesus.”
The Pyramid of Discipline is a blessing to both kids and parents!
It starts with loving authority for the foundation.
There are 5 parts to the second level:
1. Pause
2. Prayer
3. Body Language
4. Understanding
5. Consequences
Level 3 Confession
Level 4 Reconciliation (he has his boys hug until they smile) : )
He discusses how limits are positive (not a surprise to those who’ve read the Boundaries book)
and connects it to Jesus taking on the limits of being a man, disciplining Himself into a life of sacrifice. Why? So we could be free from the ultimate limitation of sin and death.
We loved the sending prayer for families as they are leaving the house:
Father, thank You for this day.
Bless us as we work, study, and play.
Be present with us in all we do.
May we bring glory and honor to You.
In Jesus name
Justin suggests lighting a candle before mealtime and having the children say, “Jesus is the light” Then he shares a game he came up with out of necessity (the mother of invention) called The Pepper Game. Whoever is holding the pepper shaker asks a question then he/she passes the shaker. The holder of the shaker answers the question and passes the shaker to the next person. We tried this out with young and old and it was a hit! Everyone learns to listen!
Trust us, this book is TOO good to miss! It will bless you in a plethora of ways!
Adding value to daily routines that will impact your kids for the rest of their days!
Nov 21, 202345:06
Lines of Courage by Jennifer Nielsen
“I’m not afraid of doing hard things. I’m afraid of a life where I do nothing.” Kara
What do you know about WW I? We knew very little, but thanks to Jennifer Nielsen’s Lines of Courage we learned a lot in an unusual way. From the viewpoints of Kara (British),
Felix (Austro-Hungarian), Elsa (German), Juliette (French) and Dimitri (Russian) Nielsen weaves a story that will enlighten and enrich any history buff’s mind.
The assassination of the Archduke in Bosnia is said to have started WW I, but countries fought for different reasons. Some fought for power, others to support allies, others for revenge, national pride, or to gain land. There was no central issue. (Maybe this is why we didn’t learn much about it in school, too tough to tackle.)
Elsa uses the analogy of a house of cards as she tries to explain to Felix how countries can quickly lose power and fall.
Kara, the nurse in training, gives readers a lesson in compassion. When she helps Felix’s wounded father; her dreams of becoming a Red Cross nurse are smashed. He gives her a gold medal handed down by his father long ago because he knows she helped him at a huge cost.
Amazingly, the medal makes it into the hands of each character. “This medal belongs to every one of you. At some point, each of you found yourself in a terrible situation and you responded with courage, with honor, and with kindness…”
May this book inspire us all to live with courage, honor and kindness. Join us as we discuss the unbelievable conditions in which these young people let their lights shine. From a fourteen year old sent into battle without a weapon to a young girl separated from her family, this book is action packed. Lines of Courage, what an eye-opener!
What do you know about WW I? We knew very little, but thanks to Jennifer Nielsen’s Lines of Courage we learned a lot in an unusual way. From the viewpoints of Kara (British),
Felix (Austro-Hungarian), Elsa (German), Juliette (French) and Dimitri (Russian) Nielsen weaves a story that will enlighten and enrich any history buff’s mind.
The assassination of the Archduke in Bosnia is said to have started WW I, but countries fought for different reasons. Some fought for power, others to support allies, others for revenge, national pride, or to gain land. There was no central issue. (Maybe this is why we didn’t learn much about it in school, too tough to tackle.)
Elsa uses the analogy of a house of cards as she tries to explain to Felix how countries can quickly lose power and fall.
Kara, the nurse in training, gives readers a lesson in compassion. When she helps Felix’s wounded father; her dreams of becoming a Red Cross nurse are smashed. He gives her a gold medal handed down by his father long ago because he knows she helped him at a huge cost.
Amazingly, the medal makes it into the hands of each character. “This medal belongs to every one of you. At some point, each of you found yourself in a terrible situation and you responded with courage, with honor, and with kindness…”
May this book inspire us all to live with courage, honor and kindness. Join us as we discuss the unbelievable conditions in which these young people let their lights shine. From a fourteen year old sent into battle without a weapon to a young girl separated from her family, this book is action packed. Lines of Courage, what an eye-opener!
Nov 14, 202331:36
GIST The Essence of Raising Life-Ready Kids by: Michael Anderson, LP & Timothy Johanson, MD
Who among us does not want to parent well? However, we must ask the question, “Am I equipping my kids to be ready for the challenges that life will throw at them?” Every chapter starts with a quote, here are two of our favorites:
“Life is not a spectacle or a feast; it is a predicament.” George Santayana
“I have never in my life envied a human being who led an easy life; I have denied a great many people who led difficult lives and led them well.” Theodore Roosevelt
This book was dedicated to children everywhere who simply want to be raised in homes where grace, love, firmness, and consistency are abundant and to parents who strive to raise their children to be ready for life. Join Kate and Sheila as they discuss this jewel for parents, grandparents, and teachers: GIST The Essence of Raising Life-Ready Kids
by: Michael Anderson, LP and Timothy Johanson, MD.
This book abounds with tried and true nuggets of wisdom. It gives parents hands-on strategies that can be applied today. The love of parents must evolve, that 20 year old living without direction, accountability, independence, or a sense of responsibility was deeply loved but the love did not evolve. This book teaches parents to think differently:
Know the difference between fun and joy
One-on-one time is important
Excessive words have a negative impact(cause shame), but consequences change behavior (This chapter was entitled, Just Shut Up) : )
Kids (and adults too) do what they do because it works-make sure poor choices stop paying off (The Invisible Game)
The Two Things concept is powerful because it speaks to the nature of how humans learn
Self-esteem is your journey toward liking yourself, it cannot come from others (I love who I am, but I know I’m no better than anyone else)
Kids are not adequately developing the skill of accurately assessing themselves
A child with an accurate view of himself or herself can go through rough waters
Put more energy into applauding resilience in a child than comforting the kid falls down
(When gifted becomes expected, normal become defective)
NO MORE DO YOUR BEST because it is unachievable, opposes the law of diminishing returns, it’s hard to figure out how to do your best, and the big one-it teaches kids to lie!
Children that do not believe they can positively affect their own lives lose hope and learn to be helpless
Once a child accepts that life has challenges, he or she can navigate life as a problem solver which trumps a whiner or complainer any day! As parents we want to raise kids that are not only ready for life but able to thrive!
“Life is not a spectacle or a feast; it is a predicament.” George Santayana
“I have never in my life envied a human being who led an easy life; I have denied a great many people who led difficult lives and led them well.” Theodore Roosevelt
This book was dedicated to children everywhere who simply want to be raised in homes where grace, love, firmness, and consistency are abundant and to parents who strive to raise their children to be ready for life. Join Kate and Sheila as they discuss this jewel for parents, grandparents, and teachers: GIST The Essence of Raising Life-Ready Kids
by: Michael Anderson, LP and Timothy Johanson, MD.
This book abounds with tried and true nuggets of wisdom. It gives parents hands-on strategies that can be applied today. The love of parents must evolve, that 20 year old living without direction, accountability, independence, or a sense of responsibility was deeply loved but the love did not evolve. This book teaches parents to think differently:
Know the difference between fun and joy
One-on-one time is important
Excessive words have a negative impact(cause shame), but consequences change behavior (This chapter was entitled, Just Shut Up) : )
Kids (and adults too) do what they do because it works-make sure poor choices stop paying off (The Invisible Game)
The Two Things concept is powerful because it speaks to the nature of how humans learn
Self-esteem is your journey toward liking yourself, it cannot come from others (I love who I am, but I know I’m no better than anyone else)
Kids are not adequately developing the skill of accurately assessing themselves
A child with an accurate view of himself or herself can go through rough waters
Put more energy into applauding resilience in a child than comforting the kid falls down
(When gifted becomes expected, normal become defective)
NO MORE DO YOUR BEST because it is unachievable, opposes the law of diminishing returns, it’s hard to figure out how to do your best, and the big one-it teaches kids to lie!
Children that do not believe they can positively affect their own lives lose hope and learn to be helpless
Once a child accepts that life has challenges, he or she can navigate life as a problem solver which trumps a whiner or complainer any day! As parents we want to raise kids that are not only ready for life but able to thrive!
Nov 07, 202301:18:16
The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
“If only patience were contagious like mumps!” Join Kate and Sheila as they meet an impatient 17 year old, Kit Tyler, who was transplanted from her native land of Barbados to a strict Puritan community in Connecticut. She landed unexpectedly on her aunt and uncle’s doorstep with 7 trunks! After the death of her grandfather Kit had nowhere else to go but she’d neglected to give her relatives a heads up. The Witch of Blackbird Pond was Elizabeth George Speare’s first Newbery award and it does not disappoint. Readers are transported back to a time in our nation’s history that is often a big question mark. When settlers held witch trials where an accused woman had to do the swim test, if she could swim she was a witch, if she couldn’t swim she was free from suspicion, but sadly, dead. From beginning to end, readers wonder what the impulsive Kit will do next. She jumped off the boat to save a child’s wooden doll, she befriended an old widow that the townspeople believed to be a witch, and she started a schoolroom brawl by having students reenact the Good Samaritan parable. However, when her cousins got sick, she worked tirelessly day and night following the doctor’s orders to pull them through. When the widow is blamed for the town’s sickness Kit runs to her rescue. Who will run to Kit’s rescue as she is put on trial for being a witch? Her suitor, William Ashby, who is building a house for his bride to be (he never asked Kit, he just thinks he is too good of a catch to turn down) or the impetuous son of Captain Eaton, Nat, who is also a friend of the lonely widow, Hannah Tupper? When a young girl named Prudence asked Kit why the people didn’t like Hannah she replied, “Because they have never tried to get to know her. People are afraid of things they don’t understand.” What a powerful statement! Reading can transform and broaden our world, it helps readers understand in an up close and personal way the lives of people in the past, present and even the future. Jump in and enjoy this classic with us!
Oct 31, 202328:16
Five Children and It by E. Nesbit
“Grown-up people find it very difficult to believe really wonderful things, unless they have what they call proof.”
We join Cyril, Anthea, Jane, Robert (aka Bob), and the baby (aka the Lamb) as they explore and discover a wish granting Psammed (aka ancient sand fairy). However, every wish backfires on the fivesome in many humorous and unusual ways.
The kids work together to solve the problems created by each wish. Our guests, Jonah and Titus, thought the theme of the story was greed and the lesson could be that we should be satisfied with what we have. Great insight for a 7 and 9 year old!
Do you feel like challenging your children with a family read-aloud? Try out this E. Nesbit classic Five Children and It and enjoy expanding your sense of wonder. She writes from the kids’ viewpoint in such a way you feel like you’re included in their adventures. Many adults choose not to stretch their imaginations, but by doing so they miss out on great reads like The Hobbit, The Wind and the Willows, and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe just to mention a few out of the plethora of timeless treasures. Travel to a time when kids had nothing but their imaginations to transport them into predicaments that boggle our minds and tickle our funny bones. : )
“Trying not to believe things when in your heart you are almost sure they are true, is as bad for the temper as anything I know.”
Be sure to let us know if you have read this novel or if you have books you would like to recommend. You can join our Facebook Group, Recap Book Chat or leave us a voice memo.
My favorite way to read is curled up with a soft blanket and a hot cozy drink in my hand. Currently my go to beverage is decaf coffee with Earth Echo's Cacao Bliss blended in. Ten powerful, organic superfoods that help with relaxation, joint pain, weight goals, and mental focus. Use my coupon code KATEM10 to get 10% off your order when you try their products.
Thanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode!
Connect with Kate and Sheila online at www.recapbookchat.com
Note that some of the links above are affiliate links to books and brands we love and ones we think you will too! Keep those pages turning and those book lights burning!
Oct 24, 202322:58
In His Steps
“No young man can live in such an atmosphere of unpunished dishonesty and lawlessness without wrecking his character.”
This quote connects hauntingly well with our society today just as it did back in 1897.
What guides your decision making? Where is your focus? Join Kate and Sheila as they discuss an 1890s instant classic, In His Steps. Charles Sheldon’s best seller tells the story of Henry Maxwell’s challenge to his congregation, prompted by a tramp who wandered into his church, spoke boldly to the congregation, then suddenly collapsed. What did the Henry’s pledge consist of? He presented them with one simple question to guide all their decision making…
What would Jesus do? Ironically, one hundred years later a youth leader shortened Henry Maxwell’s question to the acronym, WWJD. It was put on everything from coffee mugs to T-shirts.
What a powerful question! Sheldon takes readers on the amazing journey illustrating how that one question impacted those brave enough to accept and live out the pledge in their lives.
“To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.” 1 John 2:6
During this time period the United States was suffering an economic downturn, known as the Panic of 1893. We discovered how living out that question enriched and challenged the lives of a newspaper editor, a singer, an heiress, a store owner, a college president, railroad superintendent and others. The resoluteness of these folks was inspiring!
Why is this book important? The store owner said, “The first change I made was in my thoughts about my employees…What would Jesus do?” Thoughts are powerful and they are where change begins. Thoughts feed our actions. Remember the old truism, “Two natures beat within my breast, one is cursed, one is blest, one I love, one I hate, the one I feed will dominate”?
In our busyness it is easy to forget our true focus. We make decisions on the fly as we go willy-nilly through life with Jesus on the back burner but we must slow down and remember…
“We can’t imitate Jesus if we don’t know Him.”
Be sure to let us know if you have read this novel or if you have books you would like to recommend. You can join our Facebook Group, Recap Book Chat or leave us a voice memo.
My favorite way to read is curled up with a soft blanket and a hot cozy drink in my hand. Currently my go to beverage is decaf coffee with Earth Echo's Cacao Bliss blended in. Ten powerful, organic superfoods that help with relaxation, joint pain, weight goals, and mental focus. Use my coupon code KATEM10 to get 10% off your order when you try their products.
Thanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode!
Connect with Kate and Sheila online at www.recapbookchat.com
Note that some of the links above are affiliate links to books and brands we love and ones we think you will too! Keep those pages turning and those book lights burning!
Oct 17, 202333:05
Things We Didn't Say by Amy Lynn Green
Things We Didn’t Say by Amy Lynn Green was a book out of the ordinary. She weaves a tale using only letters, telegraphs, and notes. This piece of history was unknown to us, German POWs were brought to America to work with farmers. We were taken back in time to January 1944 to Ironside Lake, Minnesota. We met Johanna Berglund, a determined linguistic student that was coerced into returning to her hometown to work as a translator at the nearby POW camp. She couldn’t wait to leave her hometown and now, ironically, she is headed back.
Peter Ito, Jo’s closest friend, is a language instructor at a school for military intelligence officers, he encourages her to do her best to give Ironside Lake a second chance. Peter has a lot of wisdom: “God never promised us an easy path. But He did say He’d be with us through it all.”
“The past is never in the past. But we have to have the courage to move beyond it.”
“We can do anything we must. How we do it is up to us.”
“Don’t hold on so tightly to one idea of what you want that you don’t let God push you
In another direction.”
Jo was a guarded: “I don’t have enough charm to spare and have to ration it for general
interaction with humanity.”
“Real life is dreadfully tedious, the way it interrupts reading.”
She cleverly began her letters to Peter with German idioms, such as:
“To add one’s mustard=put in one’s opinion”
“The fish begins to stink at the head=the source of trouble is often at the top”
“To howl along with the wolves=do as those around you are doing”
As Jo’s adventure continues she battles with owner of the newspaper, Mr. McHenry, who prints anonymous negative letters about the POWs in the name of freedom of expression. Her attempt to show him the wrongness of his practice is priceless. “As I see, no one should be able to sling mud from a dark and shadowed corner…”
Pastor Sorenson wrote, “Sometimes showing grace breaks us before it heals us. Forgiveness can feel like a betrayal of justice.” Powerful message from a man that lost his son in battle from the same place the POWs were captured, yet he agrees to let the prisoners attend church.
Why was Jo on trial for treason? What will be revealed in the trial? Will Peter survive his time in the army? Who was Jo’s scholarship donor that told her to choose the better dream, not the bigger dream?” How can letters alone paint a picture of days gone by, but connect so amazingly to the world we live in?
Please, join us as Kate ‘adds her mustard’ and I add mine about Things We Didn’t Say.
“
Oct 04, 202341:55
The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom
The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom with John and Elizabeth Sherrill is a remarkable story of an amazing family’s dedication to serving God wholeheartedly. Join Kate and I as we discuss the impactfulness of Casper ten Boom and his family while they operate their watch shop in Holland. The family is always on the alert for ways to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Aristotle said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”
The ten Booms were unwaveringly solid in this area. They started each day focused on God and His word and ended each day the same way! What an amazing example of the power of routines!
Have you wondered what enables ordinary people to do extraordinary things? Corrie gives readers the prepwork for being ’all in’ as disciples of Christ. I think that is the linchpin!
The linchpin keeps the wheels turning through dust and mud. If an axle’s linchpin is removed, even 50%, the results are catastrophic. Our linchpin is God and living a life to glorify Him is the purpose for our existence. The ten Booms were ready, willing to hide Jews even at their own peril. The family successfully hid many Jews during a year and a half before a traitor exposed their operation. The story doesn’t end at the raid, it just changes direction. In prison, Betsie and Corrie were able to hold Bible studies, and time after time the demeanor of the women changed and they became more Christ-like. Denying self is a concept that society has really muddied the waters on, but this family clearly had it figured out. This inspiring book is one that readers will not soon forget. It will bless you and your family greatly!
Aristotle said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”
The ten Booms were unwaveringly solid in this area. They started each day focused on God and His word and ended each day the same way! What an amazing example of the power of routines!
Have you wondered what enables ordinary people to do extraordinary things? Corrie gives readers the prepwork for being ’all in’ as disciples of Christ. I think that is the linchpin!
The linchpin keeps the wheels turning through dust and mud. If an axle’s linchpin is removed, even 50%, the results are catastrophic. Our linchpin is God and living a life to glorify Him is the purpose for our existence. The ten Booms were ready, willing to hide Jews even at their own peril. The family successfully hid many Jews during a year and a half before a traitor exposed their operation. The story doesn’t end at the raid, it just changes direction. In prison, Betsie and Corrie were able to hold Bible studies, and time after time the demeanor of the women changed and they became more Christ-like. Denying self is a concept that society has really muddied the waters on, but this family clearly had it figured out. This inspiring book is one that readers will not soon forget. It will bless you and your family greatly!
Sep 26, 202350:27