30 Days to Joy- Book Review

30 Days to Joy is great journal for writers and/or artists to express their thoughts and feelings on the topic of joy. The introduction speaks to the differences between joy and happiness and encourages readers to discover true joy. I like that the book states, "Take this book as seriously or as lightly as you need." Basically, just choose joy daily because we know that it is a choice.
 
Quotes or scripture verses about joy start each of the 30 days and then a journaling prompt or an opportunity for art is given. For example, one question is simply, "Who are the people who bring you joy and brighten your day?" Or another example, "Fill these two pages with words or images that make you smile or laugh."

I think that after a full month reflecting on joy, one can't help but have a positive change in outlook and intentional choosing of joy (regardless of circumstances). As the publisher says, "Whether you are sketching a picture of a favorite activity, jotting down words that make you laugh, or spending time meditating on a Bible verse, you will find renewed joy in these fun and thought-provoking pages." I love the concept of this book and think others will too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

Gathering the Threads- Book Review

Gathering the Threads, the third and final book from The Amish of Summer Grove series has finally been released! This series tells a tale of two young women who were switched at birth. One had been raised in the world, the other in an Amish home. But what happens when each girl tries to live in the home of their birth parents? I have really enjoyed this series and couldn't wait to read the conclusion of the story! Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times and CBA bestselling author. She once again has provided an engaging story to follow.

Ariana is returning home after months away from her Amish family. How will she adjust after her time in the Englisch world and what will happen to Skylar once Ariana is back? As written on the back cover of Gathering the Threads:

After months away in the Englisch world, Ariana Brenneman is overjoyed to be in the Old Order Amish home where she was raised. Yet her excitement is mixed with an unexpected apprehension as she reconciles all she’s learned from her biological parents with the uncompromising teachings of her Plain community. Although her childhood friend, ex-Amish Quill Schlabach, hopes to help her navigate her new role amongst her people, Ariana’s Daed doesn’t understand why his sweet daughter is suddenly questioning his authority. What will happen if she sows seeds of unrest and rebellion in the entire family?  

 Meanwhile, Skylar Nash has finally found her place among the large Brenneman family, but Ariana’s arrival threatens to unravel Skylar’s new identity—and her sobriety. Both Ariana and Skylar must discover the true cords that bind a family and community together and grasp tight the One who holds their authentic identities close to His heart. 

Woodsmall was able to bring together the Amish and Englisch world in such an intriguing way. From one who reads a lot, I feel like Gathering the Threads (and the other books in this series) breaks the normal pattern of the Amish genre. This is a thought provoking series and I hope you will choose to read the books for yourself.

I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.