Because of my CRAZED organizing/cleaning rampage last week, I didn’t do as much reading as I thought I’d do. But that’s okay. I have another stack of friends books waiting on me. And they are very patient. 😉

I did manage to read a few, though:

1) For Young Women Only by Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa Rice — This book comes highly recommended from some good friends of mine, and I agree that it’s a great read for any teen girl. After in-depth surveys of young men, the authors share their findings about what guys are really thinking. I especially appreciate the chapter on modesty, and why many “cute” outfits girls wear can cause such a mental battle for guys.

2) Truth Behind the Fantasy of Porn: The Greatest Illusion on Earth by Shelly Lubben — A difficult read. I’m really not sure whether I can truly recommend it because there are many rather graphic descriptions of the author’s past as a porn star and prostitute. It’s real, and I do believe these truths do need to be uncovered, but her descriptions gave me some mental images I didn’t need, and I would definitely be concerned about men reading this book having some of the same mental images (with a very different effect). Shelly shares her story of how she became involved in the sex industry, how God brought her out of it. And after a very difficult recovery from her past, how God is using her to minister to others still involved in the sex industry. Use your own discernment in reading. You can get some of the shocking statistics on how dangerous the porn industry is at Shelly’s website.

3) Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson — Another wonderful historical fiction living book! The author included a few pages of facts at the end of the novel to answer some of the questions readers may have had throughout the book, but the story also had me looking things up online. Truly fascinating and mind-boggling at the extent of the Yellow Fever epidemic in Philadelphia.

4) Jip: His Story by Katherine Patterson — Yet another great historical fiction living book! Really well-told story of a boy who has no idea where he came from, and has spent all the life he can remember on the town’s “poor farm.” The story also delves into slavery and the Underground Railroad.

Any I should add to my “To-Read” list?

Jamie

Wife, mom, J-ma. Introvert who enjoys good books, sunshine, and authentic conversation. Often seen with a steaming mug of tea in hand – unless it’s lost yet again in the microwave. Read more »