The Skin Map by Stephen Lawhead

This fast-paced book – the first of a three-part series – is sure to be another hit for Stephen Lawhead. As with the rest of his books, this one is well researched and put together in such a way that you are immediately drawn into the story. From the clever opening lines to the last sentence, this book kept me hooked. I’m reading it to my husband now!

The story is based around Kit Livingstone – a character with no life and less personality – who runs into his great-grandfather, Cosimo, during a freak thunderstorm. The old man appears, then promptly sweeps Kit into a world of ley lines, alternate universes, and a hunt for the “skin map” – the guide to the roads between worlds.

One explorer of these alternate worlds had discovered the secrets to traveling through the ley lines. Because of his fear of being unable to find his way, he tattooed a coded map into his skin. The map was eventually lost, and now there is a desperate competition to find it.

Think Narnia meets Wheel of Time and you’ll have an idea of what this book consists of. Perhaps as a loyal Stephen Lawhead fan, I’m a little prejudiced, but I would highly recommend this book to others. It’s a fascinating, thought-provoking read. My only complaint is that I have to wait a year for the next book!

Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers through BookSneeze.com - their book review bloggers program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.

Everyone Communicates, Few Connect - by John C. Maxwell

I’ve read many of John Maxwell’s books, and once again, he has been a great help to me in both my personal and professional life through his book Everyone Communicates, Few Connect.

I received this book free of charge from the BookSneeze program by Thomas Nelson Publishers, and asked to post a review. I’m so glad that I chose to review this book, as it was very helpful.

Maxwell makes a very good point that we all communicate, but very few of us know how to truly connect with others. Then he goes on to teach the art of connecting, not only one-on-one, but with groups, and with audiences.

The material is well written, compelling, yet stays simple and down to earth. Because he took the time to get feedback from his audience before the final edit and publishing of this book, it ended up being chock-full of very relatable personal experiences that help to reinforce the points he brings out.

Though he is one of the top experts in this field, Maxwell writes with a humility and simplicity that convinces the reader that change is possible.

I would highly recommend this book to just about anyone – not just pastors or leaders. All of us need to learn to connect with others if we truly want to be successful, and this book will get you started on the right road.