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Resources - Linda's Book Reviews
"Listening to Others – Hearing their Voice" by Joyce Huggett
Written in an autobiographical style this is an easy read book on listening to others, with practical chapters such as listening to the bereaved, listening to the depressed, listening to joy as well as how to develop a listening heart.
First published in 1988 but since updated and republished, the style and reference to church life may be different to what we are used to, but the book is an invaluable tool if you want to develop your listening skills and give time and space to others to share what’s going on in their lives.
"Walking the Bible – A journey by land through the five books of Moses" by Bruce Feiler
An absolutely fascinating trek through the Middle East, by Bruce Feiler (a US Jew) and his companion (an Israeli Jew) as they retrace the Bible from Abraham through to the end of Deuteronomy. They look for Noah’s ark, venture into the Red Sea, climb Mount Sinai & experience life in the desert. You may not agree with all their conclusions, but I was intrigued by the archaeological insights into Biblical history, moved by Feiler’s emotional and spiritual journey, and re-considered the faith challenges which faced the Israelites and face us today as we seek to journey with God.
"Tescopoly" by Andrew Simms
Hard going at times, an easy read at others, I’m slowly progressing through this analysis of how Tesco, and other chains, affect our communities. Again, it's not one to read because you agree with everything it says (although you may do) but I’ve found it challenging how I shop and beginning to ask what makes a bargain a bargain and at what cost. One to read in bite size chunks.
"The Shopaholic Series" by Sophie Kinsella
(The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic, Shopaholic Abroad, Shopaholic Ties the Knot, Shopaholic & Sister, Shopaholic & Baby)
From one extreme to the other! These books make me laugh out loud every time I read them (yes, I’ve read them more than once!). I giggle, smile and at times lose it; I squirm with embarrassment for the main character; I disappear into them when I want something totally light hearted and ridiculous! Sorry guys, this is definitely a recommendation for the girls. If you don’t identify with Ditzy, the temptation of a shopping spree, or a girly bit of romance, these aren’t the books for you. If you read them as the fun fiction they’re meant to be, you’ll love them. If you take their messages seriously and use them as a self help guide to sorting out your finances or relationships…..you’re in serious trouble!
"Out of the Tunnel" by Rachel North
Finally, a very different recommendation: it's autobiographical written by a woman who survived a vicious rape and attack in her home, recovered enough to write about it in a magazine, only to read her article as she travelled to work on the tube, unaware that she was sharing her carriage with one of the 7/7 bombers until devastation hits. Traumatic in places (particularly the first chapter which details the attack), it's not a relaxing read, but it's insightful, also inspirational, as she shares her journey of overcoming post traumatic stress from both situations, and using her experience to help others to do the same.