How to Be Rich by Andy Stanley

God is the ultimate giver. With this premise, pastor and author Andy Stanley tells us we are already rich, but we aren’t very good at being rich.  In his well-written, conversational “How to Be Rich,” Andy shares examples from his own family such as recalling his fifth grade year in a Florida parsonage.  He tells of the generosity of his Atlanta churches who have given millions to charities and missions around the world in their Be Rich campaign. He also relates the history of Christianity with stories of early Christians who nursed plague victims and smuggled food to prisoners.   He tells of King David who said that everything belongs to God. And of course there is the perfect model of Jesus who taught us to give to others without thought of return to self.   Andy’s folksy, humorous writing style quickly engages the reader.  He does not preach in a didactic style; rather he just talks through the pages.   He tells us to plan our giving and to increase the percentage as we are blessed.  I highly recommend this uplifting, inspirational book full of heavy duty wisdom.  It is a pleasure to read, and it is also a strong encouragement to get busy and give.  I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the words expressed here are my own.

Snapshot by Liz Wiehl

Snapshot by Liz Wiehl

A faded photograph of two little girls at a years-ago civil rights rally provides the backdrop for Liz Wiehl’s compelling, must-read novel, Snapshot.  Federal prosecutor Lisa Waldren returns to her childhood home to help her father solve an old mystery and perhaps free a man on death row.  This quest leads Lisa into dangerous territory; as she uncovers hidden secrets, she has to confront her own fears and try to renew her relationship with her dad.  Wiehl has crafted complex characters: Dad’s girlfriend is a private investigator who knows how to bug houses. Molly is a preacher with a gregarious family. Stanley is the villain who tries to reconnect with his own politician daughter. The plot twists and turns so fast that you’re almost not ready for the suspense filled conclusion. As she moves the action from Boston to Texas to Miami and points in between, Wiehl holds the reader in a masterful grasp. There is an abundance of detail, to even include an elusive key that relates to Robert Kennedy. A reading group guide is included as are introspective comments by Wiehl’s own father, a retired FBI agent. I highly recommend this book. It is a never-a-dull moment exciting and intriguing mystery. Be sure, however, to pay close attention or you’ll miss something.  I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the words and opinions here are my own.