Sunday, August 30, 2015

Uncommon DVD Review

Movie (DVD) - Uncommon

Running Time - Approx. 100 minutes

This is a dove approved, "faith friendly" movie, recommended for ages 12 and up.

A young man wants to start a Bible Study group at his public school.  He speaks out (and against) falsehood by one of his teachers.  He is a quiet, good student who wants to encourage others in their faith.  Eventually, he helps the drama club put together a play that is considered by authorities to be religious.  A lawyer is called in to help fight the school board, who had shut down the play and Bible studies. Their fight is inspiring and well done.

Throughout the struggles, there is an incredible janitor, played by Erik Estrada, who does an amazing job as a Christian mentor.  His strong religious faith and character (as well as of his wife) are well worth watching.

[Note: One thing that I personally did not like about the movie was the students' intention to write a play based on the Bible itself.  However, we never see the finished play, we only hear the students discussing their options.] 

Overall this is a good and strong message that will encourage teenagers to be "uncommon," or not like the crowd.  It will encourage them to live the Christian life and to help teach it, despite opposition.

 The film is available at Walmart and Christian Stores.

*Disclosure - This item was provided for review purposes.*




Sunday, June 7, 2015

The Heart of the Amish by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Book - The Heart of the Amish

Author - Suzanne Woods Fisher

Publisher - Revell

Paperback, 178 pages


The book consists of two parts. One - Everyday Friction and, Two - Turning Points.  Each chapter shares someone's story - an annoyance, a struggle, or some kind of situation where forgiveness is required. 

At the end of each chapter is a small section of "Reflections." This may include thoughtful questions or insights to help the reader in a sort of therapy to help them work through the concept of forgiveness in their own lives.

Next, each chapter ends with a boxed - in section called, "Plain Truth." These are fascinating tidbits of trivia, mostly about the Amish and other similar groups.

While many of the chapters include Amish related stories, some do not.  Also there are chapters about modern, sensitive topics that some may not feel the need to read.

This book would be most helpful to those who are struggling with bitterness and need help working towards of forgiving spirit.


*Disclosure - This book was provided for review purposes.*

The Love Letters by Beverly Lewis

Book - The Love Letters

Author - Beverly Lewis

Publisher - Bethany House

Paperback, 345 pages.


Beverly does a marvelous job creating a story that encourages peacefulness.  An Amish young woman, Marlena, has to leave her parent's home to spend time with her Mennonite grandmother.   Grandma needs help caring for her home and doing chores.  We get to know the neighbors and what the chores are like.  There is a young boy next door who is struggling to help with the work, but his father won't take the time to encourage him.  In the boy's wandering (as he plays in the community) he finds an old letter and meets a stranger.  There are a few different subplots that keep the story interesting.  Marlena's sister gets in an accident and her baby is sent to Grandmother's house for Marlena to tend.   Overall, it is an interesting story with genuine Amish - style dialogue that will entertain.



* Disclosure - This book was provided for review purposes.*