Books for Christmas for the Whole Family
By Holly E. Newton
Christmas is just around the corner and what better time to
give gifts of righteous, uplifting and wonderful books written
by LDS authors?
Here is a list of some of the best and newest books recently
published:
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here to buy |
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Righteous Warriors: Lessons from the War Chapters in
the Book of Mormon, is a most edifying, informative and engaging discussion
for youth on a subject that always interests them. John Bytheway
has written a format that is easy to read and filled
with the spirit. The chapters discuss Alma 43 through 62. There are highlighted sections and
retelling of events that truly make them come alive. But he
doesn't let his own words give the impact. He continually quotes
specific scriptures giving credence to the importance of relying
on them. His uplifting and interesting observations throughout
the book and quotes from General Authorities will make this
book a must read for all youth.
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here to buy |
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And while we're at it, you might as well put his other new
book on your Christmas list. When Times Are Tough
evolved
from Brother Bytheway’s talk to the Columbine Seminary students
after the terrible Colorado High School shootings. He's put
together 5 scriptures in each of his chapter headings that will
help you, inspire you and motivate you, even at the worst of
times. Some of the chapter headings read: "5 Scriptures
That Will Help You Get through Almost Anything,” “5 Scriptures
That Will Strengthen Your Faith,” and “5 Scriptures That Will
Motivate You to Action.” This book would be perfect for all
ages!
Brother Bytheway has proven once again that he can write for
teens of our church in the same fantastic way that he gives
talks to youth: entertaining, uplifting and inspiring! He
even has a new DVD out, Standards Night Live, which is
so good my whole family has watched it! No wonder he's so popular
with our youth!
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here to buy |
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Now, are you looking for a fiction book that is gripping, exciting,
full of adventure, twists and turns and yet full of inspiration?
Can this combination be possible? LDS author Chris Stewart
has written book 2 in his series from "The Great and Terrible."
Where Angels Fall will
have you reading from morning 'till night – it's that good!
I found myself thinking about it even when I was forced to put
it down to feed my family! Those of you who read volume 1,
The Brothers, will find that this second book is just
as good as the first and continues with the main characters.
However, you do not need to read the first book to enjoy volume
2. The war in heaven continues as this second book envelops
the war of good vs. evil here on earth. As the U.S. military protects a portion of the Middle East, Lucifer
is working overtime to prevent Saudi Arabia to become a free Democracy. The Lord has sent these
valiant spirits, (the main characters), to help overpower
Satan. But will they, can they prevail in this riveting, page-turning
tale. Brother Stewart has proven once a gain that he is a gifted,
intelligent and mesmerizing author. But, beware! Give yourself
some time to read this book. It will keep you reading until
the end. Perfect for teenagers through adult!
How about a romance novel for those teen girls and older?
Sierra St. James has written a clever and funny story about
a young woman not looking for love. What the Doctor Ordered
has Ellie traveling to Colton, Idaho to help her elderly aunt. What she doesn't plan on
is having Aunt Bertie continually embarrass her in front of
an eligible and handsome doctor. Apparently her aunt feels
that Ellie would make a perfect wife for Dr. Flynn and doesn't
mind telling him so every time they meet. The scenarios that are
set up will have you laughing and hoping that all works
out for this unlikely pair.
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here to buy |
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Cold Train Coming , by Larry Barkdull, is a beautifully written story about 13-year-old
Ben, his infatuation with 15-year-old Ellie, his relationship
with his little brother Squid, and his parents’ rocky marriage.
Brother Barkdull has woven a story about live growing up in
a small rural town back in 1942. World War 11 has just broken
out and many of the young men from town have left to fight.
The story comes alive as you relive a time in history that many
of the younger generation don't really understand. He captivates
and breathes a freshness into the story, bringing this long
forgotten way of life back to life. "The abrupt cluster
of cottonwoods stands in a sharp contrast to the ocean of plains,
prairie grass, and wheat ranches..." The story is based
on a true event that happened back in the late 1930's in Fort Benton, Montana. An ailing sheepherder came
to town with his loyal dog, Shep, for hospitalization. When
he died, the family requested that his body be shipped back
East for burial by way of the train. When the train carried
off the body, Shep stayed at the train depot. For 5 and ˝ years
the dog showed up four times a day looking for his master.
The author has woven Ben's life, the difficulties he faces,
and his need for a friend with a dog who sadly looks for his
owner day after day at the depot. A perfect book for 12 through
adult.
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here to buy |
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How about books about Christmas? Stars: Reflections
on Christmas, by Chieko N. Okazaki, tells stories, scriptures and
experiences that relate to Christmas and the birth of our Savior.
Sister Okazaki was the first non-Caucasian to serve in the Relief
Society General Presidency. Her book serves as a star helping
shine on the light and life of Christ in our lives. Wonderful
for all ages.
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here to buy |
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Now for 2 beautiful picture books that all families should
have in their homes! A Christmas Dress for Ellen
by President Thomas S. Monson, is the type of book that
brings the true message of giving. A distraught mother of five
is putting her children to bed on Christmas Eve knowing that
they'll wake up to nothing in their Christmas stockings and
nothing under the tree. It's been a very lean year back in
1927 in a remote rural town in Canada, and Mary had written
a letter to her sisters back in Idaho about the need for some
simple gifts for her children. But the letter must have traveled
to the Idaho home too late, for the gifts never arrived.
Or did they? When you read about what the mail carrier does
and the problems he faces, you will truly appreciate the simple
gift of love at Christmas! This is a must read for families
of all ages at Christmas time! And my final picture book if
the perfect book to read on Christmas Eve. When Jesus
Was Born In Bethlehem, with paintings by Joseph Brickey,
is the Christmas story told as it should be told: through the
scriptures. What makes this book so wonderful and perfect for
the season besides the scriptures as text are the beautiful
oil renderings that portray the events leading up to His birth.
The pictures fill the pages and will fill your soul as you ponder
this miraculous and holiest of events. Both books are a must
for this season and to be enjoyed throughout the year.
