"Neighbors and Wise Men: Sacred Encounters in a Portland Pub and Other Unexpected Places" by Tony Kriz

Readers might recognize “Neighbors and Wise Men” author as Tony the Beat Poet from Donald Miller’s “Blue Like Jazz.” Tony Kriz has written his own story and, like “Blue Like Jazz,” it is special.

“Neighbors and Wise Men” is a book of thoughts. Each chapter is broken into sections based on Tony’s thoughts about living the Christian life and what it looks like sharing the Gospel. His thoughts range from his time as a broken missionary in Albania to living life at Reed College to learning Biblical truths from nonbelievers.

I loved this book. Even though it’s a book of musings, they challenge you to think about the strict guidelines Christians often impose on themselves and others- many times without thought or question. Even if you don’t agree with everything he talks about, it’s a good read to make you chew on some of the things he points out.

It’s a good read for anyone, whether you believe in God or not, because it focuses on relationships cross-culturally. I highly recommend it. It’ll end up on my Favorites shelf.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"The Book of Man" by William Bennett

Here it is! My first review! I picked an excellent book to start off my reviewing with. I've enjoyed it tremendously.

Title: “The Book of Man: Readings on the Path to Manhood”

Author: William Bennett

William Bennett’s “The Book of Man: Readings on the Path to Manhood” reminded me much of his “The Book of Virtues” which championed itself as a “treasury of great moral stories.” Now, fifteen years later, Bennett has done it again, except this time he is targeting men. “The Book of Man” is a compilation of essays, profiles, and poems on what a man of character should and does look like, hoping to set an example for the men of our culture when examples seem to be few and/or forgotten.

Even as a woman, I genuinely enjoyed “The Book of Man.” It is an excellent collection of stories both fictional and nonfictional to inspire both men and women alike towards uplifting character. It’s specifically a good reminder of the necessity of our men to fight for what is honorable as it pertains to six different areas of our lives: work, recreation, war, family, spirituality and country. The book is also put together well with gorgeous binding and a hard cover making it a treasury that could easily last several generations. This is a book I look forward to sharing and passing down in my family.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”