On-the-tape

All I can say at this time is that Bishop Jakes is a blessed man sent by God. He truly has a heart for the woman that has been hurt, and as for me this book has open up my eyes and set me free from my dark past the inter child that was lost, hurt, and missed used is found and now my confidence and my faith has been renewed so I thank the men of God for letting the Lord work though him. Just to add to what I said because of the book, Iam free indeed there is no devil in hell that can take from me any more I think every woman should read this book they will be set free the Lord thy God is faithful I could go on and on about this book because It is powerful and eye opening a new life will emerge and truth will come I say woman forget about your past. For the man of God has said WOMAN, THOU ART LOOSED, if you have not got the book get today love you Bishop Jakes. Sincerely, Christie D. Washington

After reading this book,I was totally convinced that T. D. Jakes is annointed and has been prophetically impressed upon by God to reach "women" in a manner in which no other man has done thus far. I would be remiss if I did not give hommage to Bishop Jakes for having the divine wisdom and indepth conscienceness to caringly touch those secret places of a womans' psyche that only God himself knows about. This book transcends all barriers such as ethnicity and cultural backgrounds. When it comes down to facts, women are women, and many of us are faced with similar challenges throughout life. I would recommend this book to every woman! It is healing, and powerful. Though "Woman Thou Art Loosed" will often bring tears to your eyes, those tears will inevitably be the water which surfaces the pain and washes it away. After reading this magnificant work by Bishop T. D. Jakes, I believe any woman would be on her way to recovery from whatever hinders her spiritually, physically or emotionally. I, personally, thank God Bishop Jakes!

This book was awesome! God has covered everything through T.D. Jakes in this book for the broken-hearted. He reminds us how precious we are in His sight. We are created for a special purpose & this book spells it out beautifully! Dispelling all the lies of the enemy, nourishing our souls with God's very own Word.

Martin Goldsmith takes the reader on an incredible journey that gives a chilling glimpse of life in Nazi Germany and the power of love and the human spirit to survive. After listening to Goldsmith's wonderful voice and commentary for years on NPR's "Performance Today," I could actually hear his voice as I read the words of his poignant stories about his parents, grandparents, aunts and uncle. Everyone should read this book. It would also be a compelling classroom supplement for students of history and music. The story is unforgettable. After I finished reading the book, one line from the song by The Verve keeps popping into my mind: "It's a bittersweet symphony, this life..."

Some of the best books I have ever read have been ones not of my own choosing. This is the case with "The Inextinguishable Symphony", a book given to me by a friend for a recent birthday. It became one of my most cherished gifts.

I am a music teacher and roughly the same age as the author, Martin Goldsmith. I must confess that I had never heard of the "Kulturbund" and certainly had not an inkling as to the effect it had on so many lives. This is one of those accounts that is not taught in school, and like "Schindler's List", presents a brand new aspect to life in Nazi Germany. Mr. Goldsmith weaves a marvelous chronicle of his parents' devotion to each other in the years with the Kubu, an organization that found them together and bound them together.

In historical terms, many of us believed for years that everything had to have been clear in Germany in the 1930s....if you were Jewish you had to leave. The author reminds us that many Jews who did leave early on also came back and subsequently met their deaths as the situation got worse. This book is a loving tribute not only to Mr. Goldsmith's parents but to all who tried to find some happiness in music and friendship at a most difficult time. It is a wonderful memorial to those who perished and a testament to those who survived.

What do we really know about our parents' life before we were born? That depends largely, I guess, on how much of an interest we show - and on how much they are willing to reveal. Because in the life of every person there are instances and times they rather wish to forget, and not revive time and again by discussion, even if only among their nearest and dearest.

Such, in the lives of author Martin Goldsmith's parents, were the years from 1933 through 1941; so much so, in fact, that Goldsmith likens that time to the massive ash tree in the house of Germanic warlord Hunding, the setting of the first scene of Richard Wagner's opera "Die Walkuere:" Something looming large, yet never openly acknowledged. Because before George Gunther Goldsmith, furniture and home decorating salesman of Cleveland, Ohio, and his wife Rosemary, a violinist with the St. Louis Symphony and the Cleveland Orchestra, became American citizens in 1947, they had lived a whole other life - the hunted life of Jews in Adolf Hitler's Germany. And only years after his mother's death, on a trip to his father's home town of Oldenburg, did Goldsmith catch the first glimpses of what was hidden behind that massive ash tree, and George Goldsmith began to talk about the events which his, the Goldschmidt family had witnessed there; as well as the early life of Rosemarie nee Gumpert in Duesseldorf, the couple's first meeting in Frankfurt, and their later life in Berlin until their lucky escape to the United States. Beginning with this visit, Martin Goldsmith retraced his family's path to the early years of the 20th century, when his paternal grandfather Alex Goldschmidt took residence in Oldenburg, and his maternal grandfather Julian Gumpert settled in Duesseldorf.

How intensely personal this voyage into the past must have been becomes clear in the account of Goldsmith's visit to Oldenburg prison, as a participant in a march retracing the path taken by the Jews - among them the author's grandfather - driven through the streets of Oldenburg in 1938 by Nazi thugs, to later be shipped off (at least temporarily) to Sachsenhausen concentration camp. But although he writes about his very own family, and now in full knowledge of their fate, Goldsmith's narrative is in no way sentimental. With a journalist's detachment he talks about Guenther and Rosemarie, Alex, Julian and their wives and other children; turning a nonfiction account whose outcome is clear from the very start into a heartstopping tale few would be able to believe if presented with it under colors other than that of the plain historic truth.

Prominently featured in Goldsmith's account is the Jewish Culture Association, or Juedischer Kulturbund; as of 1933 the German Jews' only permitted artistic organization, in whose orchestra Guenther and Rosemarie had met and which had formed the center of their life until they finally left the country. One of the most controversial institutions of Nazi Germany, it reunited what was left of the country's Jewish musicians, artists, writers and composers - providing a modicum of shelter in an increasingly hostile environment, but also a convenient tool in the Nazi propaganda machine. Were the members of the Kulturbund instrumentalized to deceive public opinion, at home and abroad, about the true intentions of Hitler's government? By giving their Jewish audience a sense of comfort and "belonging," did they also prevent some of them from rescuing themselves when there still would have been time? The surviving members of the "Kubu" and their families, interviewed by Goldsmith, come down on both sides of the issue; and the fate of the survivors is probably as symptomatic as that of the many who ultimately did perish in Nazi concentration camps - chiefly among those the Kulturbund's charismatic founder Dr. Singer, who not only let himself deceive into returning to Germany after already having reached the safe shores of the U.S. but saw a mark of distinction even in his deportation to the "model" concentration camp of Theresienstadt.

Yet, for Guenther and Rosemarie the years with the Kulturbund were dominated, above all, by the musical companionship they experienced. What does seem to have haunted them most for the rest of their lives, however, was their very escape to America, while their remaining family members were stuck in Europe and, one way or another, died in Hitler's concentration camps - and the feeling that with a little effort they just *might* have saved at least some of them. The letters of Alex Goldschmidt and his younger son Helmut, written to Guenther from captivity in France after their own unsuccessful attempt to flee to Cuba, are among the most chilling testimonials contained in this book; and the decision to translate and include them conceivably cannot have been an easy one for Goldsmith. Indeed, it apparently was the knowledge of his family's fate that, all talent and love of music aside, eventually compelled George Goldsmith to forever retire the flute which, in his life as Guenther Goldschmidt, had been the only item of true importance besides his beloved wife Rosemarie; thus punishing himself in a way no outsider could have done. Yet, the couple's gift for music lives on in their son, who in his own way has brought many hours of joy to radio listeners all over the U.S.

Martin Goldsmith's "Inextinguishable Symphony" - named for Danish composer Carl Nielsen's Fourth Symphony, which sets music, as a parable for life itself, against war, terror and destruction - is as much a personal journey of discovery as a journalist's account of historic facts; seeking to understand rather than to judge. It deals with a time in which morality was thoroughly upset by a profoundly immoral regime, which cannot possibly have remained without effect on anybody who witnessed those events. In applying our own values to those facts, I think we would all do well in being careful to, likewise, make a thorough effort to understand before we judge. Goldsmith's insightful account is a great place to begin such a process.

Hello All,

I bought this book on the advice of a 27yr veteran in Alanon. I've never regretted purchasing this book. The readings are insightful, and go hand in hand with another great read "The Courage To Change". I've yet to discover why Alanon has yet not recommended this book?! Trust me, this is one of the best daily readers you can get!

I like this book so much, that I've given SEVERAL away as gifts to those that I love dearly. To this date, I've NEVER received a single complaint, only compliments on the depth and wisdom, of the words written by Melody Beatie. So, if you want a great daily reader, then I HIGHLY recommend this book. On yet another note, I just purchased "More language Of Letting Go" so, as soon as I've read a bit of it, I'll post my comments here.

Ciao All!!

Having read the book 5 years ago, I still pick up the book everyday, especially when I feel those codependent controlling emotions resurfacing. The book literally saved me from myself the self-defeating behavoirs of trying to control life. It has changed my life. My book is falling apart from use, it is my daily spiritual guidance and encouragement. I couldn't live without it. Thank you from a very codependent who was brought across that bridge into the light. This book has saved me, in financial crisis', in my love relationship, in every aspect of my life. It has taught me that I cannot control life. My screen saver here at work says, "You cannot control people or events... trust, believe and let it go, just let it go"! This book is powerful, a life saver.

The Language of Letting Go by Melody Beattie is an excellent tool for anyone who wants to work through the painful process of ending a relationship. I highly recommend this book!

John D. Moore, MS, CADC
---
Author of Confusing Love with Obsession

Ted Dekker has established himself as the reigning master of Christian suspense. With "Black," he takes a decided gamble, bending every genre to his will--fantasy, suspense, romance, End Times thriller, and historical novel. For that alone, he deserves applause. Rather than stick to his proven formula, he goes for broke.

For me, comparisons to "The Matrix" and "The Lord of the Rings" were misleading. Once I set aside those ideas, I realized the book was more closely related to "The Chronicles of Narnia." Yes, it explores parallel worlds and fantasy elements, but it leans more heavily on Narnia's deceptively simple, almost child-like view of great spiritual truths. A young audience could read and enjoy this book, while adults could spend hours discussing its theological implications.

From the moment Thomas Hunter starts bouncing between two worlds, we know that Dekker is going to take us on a wild ride. The ride could've been jarring and disjointed; instead, Dekker shows his skill at storytelling, weaving seemingly unrelated stories into a cohesive and symbolic whole. Although we rarely fear for Hunter's safety--he has miraculous recourses to protect him--we can't help but pull for him every step of the way. He is out to save himself, his sister, his budding romantic interest, and the world at large.

"Black" demonstrates the wide possibilities of Christian fiction, and Dekker shows that he is unafraid of exploring those boundaries.

The first Ted Dekker book I read was Three, and if you haven't read that one...YOU MUST!!! Since then, I've read Blink and Heaven's Wager, and although Blink was good, neither book captured the thrill I got from reading Three. With that said, Black kept me riveted in as much as Three did.

This is one of the most thrilling and imaginative books I've ever read. Ted Dekker has become my favorite Christian fiction writer, hands down. He tells this story about Thomas Hunter in such a way that you don't know whether his dream is reality or the reality is a dream. You will be cast into two different realities in two different time frames, and you'll be hanging on to see what happens the next time Thomas falls asleep. You have to read this book to find out what I'm talking about.

Will Thomas save the day, will the virus wipe out the world, what is going on with the Black Forest, and will he get the girl? Black has a perfect blend of suspense, thrills, and romance that will keep this book in your hands. When you're finished, you'll be clamoring for the second book in the trilogy....and the best part is...we only have to wait until May 2004.

Yes, Black is a Masterpiece or it could be called a Piece of the Master! From the first page, I couldn't lay it down. I cried and laughed and felt I really got to know both worlds and each of their residents. I am so excited to think that it doesn't end with Black, and will continue with Red. Rarely do you find a book which really provokes such thoughts, along with such thrills. I highly recommend Black to anyone. It is not just another story that you read and enjoy (although you will enjoy it) and then move on to something else, it is the kind of work that changes your life, and the way you view it. What more can be said? Black has become on of my very favorites.

Travelling to Abbarach, the World of Stone, Haplo the Patryn and Alfred the Sartan must join together to survive as they discover both the secrets of a dying world as well as learning to trust each other. Book Three takes a morbid, terrifying look at death and continues the upbeat pace that the first two novels kept. A must read for any reader of the Death Gate Cycle. CAUTION : DUE TO MATURE CONTENT, THIS BOOK NOT SUGGESTED FOR READERS UNDER THE AGE OF 13

The third volume of the Death Gate Cycle just blew me away when I read it. The story takes a darker turn, looks at death and our perceptions of it, and becomes more depressing than the other books of the series, while maintaining the fast pace and enjoyability I have come to expect from Weis and Hickman. The cast of characters, again renovated, as in the first two, is by far superior to Dragon Wing and Elven Star. Living, dead, and undead, all the characters are made real by the vivid writing styles of the two authors. This book is disturbing, but also amazing. Even if you didn't like the first two, they're worth it just to get to this one. A couple warnings, though: first, this book contains some major violence, and I wouldn't recommend it for readers younger than, say 13. Another, on a different topic: make sure you have Serpent Mage handy when you finish this book, the ending is a direct lead-in to the fourth book. Amazingly enough, Weis and Hickman manage to keep the quality of the series nearly as high as this book for the last four volumes!

Wow...this book in the Death Gate Cycle series was a strain on me. Somehow the authors were able to give me a sense of claustrophobia, being trapped underground in this world of fire, ash and sorrows. It was a hopeless place where the best one could hope for is true death. What was more likely was the ghost/slave existence of a trapped soul induced by the magic of necromancy, doomed to wander in a constant state of limbo between life and death. Just the descriptions of this damned firey hell made me thirsty! I drank a lot of ice water while reading this book.

I wanted to travel through this world as quickly as possible with Haplo, and as quickly get our story told and make our escape to any other world but this. It was a bonefide relief when Haplo started up his ship and left. But I cried when the dog fell into the lava!!! I love that dog.

Even though this book was difficult for me to get through I gave it 5 stars because any writer that can make me feel such intense emotions is obviously good at his/her craft.

The Vampire Chronicles is one of the best set of books written! Anne Rice takes you into the world of the undead and it leaves you completly speechless. The characters in the book become real and very unforgetable! It leaves you spellbond and very much at the edge of your set. You can't wait to start the next book. I really loved it. 'Memnoch the Devil,' was one of the best also. I truely hope that there will be more books to this set. The entire set is a must to read and own.

I found this documentary of vampire life simply enthralling. Anne Rice writes so convincingly that her tales appear to be nothing less than absolute truths. Everything the modern vampire needs to know and understand is here. Unfortunately, I felt that the film of "Interview...", using Tom Cruise as Lestat did not do this literary masterpiece justice. As a film in it's own right, it is amazing, but after reading the rest of the Vampire Chronicles, it becomes blatently obvious that Cruise is unsuitable for the role he attempts to assume. The books are irresistable; impossible to put down. If you have not yet read them............what are you waiting for???

This book is so loving for all vampire lovers. The reason why I like this collection is because people don't have to buy one book at a time. You can just buy this collection, and then you'll be satisfied. All three of the books starting from Interview all the way to the Queen Of The Damned are the finest novals of this collection. Did you know that this is the collection you can use to add background orchestrated music? This is the purfect collection to do just so while you're listening or reading. While we read this book! we must have dark music. The reason why is because this book needs it. Anne Rice is a good author, and her novels are the best ever read. I highly recommend this book to all vampire lovers in the world. They shal fall in love with the darkness of these novels, and pay no worship to the light. That's what's this book is for. This book is the inspiration. This book is love. This book is darkness. This book is everything.

I am in the process of reading #8 of 10 (so far) of the "Prey" series. I re-read the first 3 and have continued through the entire series. Mind Prey is #7 and by far the best yet. This story kept me locked in from the first pages. It has the hidden secrets, the "thing" Lucas Davenport just can't get ahold of, empathy for the victims, and surprises until the very end. Instead of "burning out" on the saga, I eagerly start the next book. WOW! What a storyteller is John Sandford!

Mind Prey one of many of the "Prey" series is a outstanding book. I have read every one of the series. The lead Lt. Lucas Davenport has a cool way about him Very likeable character..Any of the books are hard to put down. Rules of prey the first of the series starts you on a rollorcoaster of psychological drama and edge of your seat reading!! Good luck putting it down. Hey John when is the next one coming out?? Your due.

I started reading Mind Prey last night. I finished today, ignoring family, friends, chores, hygiene, etc., in the process. If drugs are like this, I can see the attraction (I'm not advocating anyone test that theory, just get the next Davenport book and tune out the rest of the world for another day).

This book, Sandford's seventh "Prey" mystery, deals with a psycho kidnapper and the games he plays (mental and otherwise) with Deputy Chief Lucas Davenport. If it were just the two of them in the battle of wits, the bad guy might have had a chance, but late in the game he recognizes that Davenport has more than just his uncanny intuition going for him: his crew is top-notch and he has some sharp women on his side, like Elle "Sister Mary Joseph" Kruger, Weather Karkinnen, and a newcomer known only as "Ice."

The violence is not for the faint of heart or stomach and the language is frequently harsh (we do learn the difference, however, between profanity, obscenity and vulgarity, so the book is at least educational in that respect). In the context of the story it all makes sense and doesn't sink into exploitation, but if it's not your cup of tea (or martini glass of, well, martini) it will likely detract from the story too much for you to enjoy it.

Sandford's imagery draws you into the story and keeps you there. The only times the book begins to drag are during long paragraphs of scene description (the train yard especially gets bogged down...and just when the race against time is at its peak). Thankfully this is kept to a minimum and - once we know where we are - the pace picks right back up again.

A fast-paced thriller that is sure to please Sandford's fans, and earn him some new ones, even as it raises the question: "Why do the psychos like the Cities so much?"

Given that Mr Sienkiewicz won the Nobel literary prize for mainly this work, that alone is a pretty good bet for reading it. Written in the 1890's, this book is seen as one of the world's first "bestseller" novels, and is definitely an epic of, well, epic proportions.

Unfortunately, the book does suffer slightly as a result of the translation, as noted by an earlier reviewer, so if you can read Polish, do get the original version. Nevertheless, although the book starts off a tad slow, think of the beginning as a push off from a cliff, because after that it's as fast paced a thriller as money can buy.

A basic exposure to Roman and Christian history will make the book really come alive. Although certain "facts" are not correct, or have been omitted, remember that the book is meant to be fiction. The historical events are merely a platform for a passionate love story between a pagan Roman and a Christian girl. However, it is the seeming impossibility of this love, together with descriptions of the nearly moronic Roman "royal court", keeps you reading well into the night. The emotional roller-coaster makes you, the reader, feel exhausted.

Definitely recommended, and one of the most enjoyable books I've read.

If you liked this, do check out his other novels - especially the brilliant "Teutonic Knights" which is another epic of a young Polish knight (and of course a lovely maiden or two thrown in for good measure) and the history of middle ages Poland up to the battle of Grunwald where the Teutonic Knights were defeated.

I must confess that I started reading this book only after having enjoyed the film "Gladiator"...the book starts off slow but I promise, once you settle into the story,this novel will draw you in with it's vivid descriptions of the melting pot that was Rome...the heart of the story is romantic, the love of a Roman for a Christian girl...the main character goes through a touching transformation, which made me think of the soul alot...and the porttait of early christianity is very moving...I've since drifted from this faith, but the book reminded me that Christianity also had it's past full of sufferings-a fact I overlook from the comforts of my home...it shows early christianity, persecuted, hidden and striving-even with men of different temperaments-there is a hell fire preacher who annoys, another like Peter who speaks of Love...i found the modern translation very appealing- I once tried this novel in it's more archaic language and found myself quickly bored....this modern translation drew me in and has some beautiful expressions found throughout...my favorite character was Petronius, an endearing pagan Roman who delights only in the beautiful but has a heart enough to risk his own life for those he loves...he is sarcastic and witty and his influence over Nero borders on the humorous....great historical novel, perhpas one of the best I've ever read..if any customers out there don't seem to get enough of the film "Gladiator", please read this book...you will not be disapointed!!!

The Christian v. lion's story has been around so long that it has pretty much become a kind of myth. It is a phrase one brings up in order to illustrate some point or other, but is hardly ever thought about in historical terms. In fact, Christianity itself sometimes seems as if it is becoming a kind of myth. The left doesn't take it seriously, and bashes Christians for being intolerant and condescending. But Christians, in their haste to retaliate, often act intolerant and can be arrogantly condescending. The sense of what it means to be Christian seems to get lost in all of this.

Quo Vadis takes us back to the days when Christianity was fresh and new and shows us just what kind of world it was then that caused such a movement to flourish. This alone would make it an excellent novel, but it works wonderfully on all levels. The characters are superbly drawn, the setting is realistic, the plot crackles along, and, perhaps most importantly in a novel with this subject matter, it never becomes preachy or didactic, instead maintaining an objective perspective throughout.

Rome was the greatest of the ancient empires, yet despite all of its glorious achievements, it was truly a barbaric place. The concept of human rights was non-existent. Slaves--of all races--were property, and could be used in any way one saw fit, including the most vicious or depraved. The rule of law, while discussed in philosophical terms, was only sporadically and occasionally applied. The law instead came and went at the whim of the powerful, and if the powerful happened to be someone like Nero--the ruler of Rome during the course of this novel--then the law was sadistic, cruel, wicked and unpredictable.

We see the effect that living this kind of society has on the two main characters of the novel, both of whom are members of the upper crust: Petronius, a courtier; and Vinicius, a military officer. Petronius, as Nero's confidant, can never let his guard down. He must flatter, cajole, deceive and manipulate Nero every minute of the day, for his very life depends on it. It is a life, "drained and listless and detached," as we are told in the first sentence of the novel. Vinicius falls in love with a captive Christian female, and through his love we see how Christianity changes his life. But it is an unbelievably difficult and dangerous undertaking--with the demented presence of Nero and his sycophants looming over everything--to form an attachment with a person and then a cause such as this.

It gradually dawns on us how the Christian movement began in the first place, and why attempts were made so mercilessly to stamp it out. Instead of dishonesty and cruelty, it called for honesty and kindness. Instead of privilege for the elite, its promises were made to all. Instead of arrogance, it preached submissiveness. Perhaps most importantly, it simplified one's life, and allowed one to live without fear.

Rome is burned, possibly at Nero's orders, incredibly, so that he can experience suffering as he believes a true artist must. To divert the anger of the Romans, he blames Christians. Thousands of men, women, and children are rounded up, put in dungeons for months, then on successive festival days were crucified, burned alive, mauled by gladiators, and, as we know, attacked by wild animals. Their fate is so hideous that in time even the jaded Romans became sickened by it.

These historical events, and the actions of the characters during them, are what make up the bulk of the novel. To say the least, it makes for very compelling reading; indeed, some parts are difficult to bear. And as mentioned, it is presented in a very objective way. Not all of the Christians are presented sympathetically--one, in fact, is a fiery, all-will-be-damned type--and not all the Romans are presented harshly. The noblest character in the novel may very well be Petronius, who uses his influence as much as he can to alleviate the suffering he sees around him. And although he recognizes to some degree the power and decency of the movement, he himself does not wish to become a Christian. He can not abide the idea of being required to love his fellow man, most of whom--the unwashed, ignorant mob--he detests. He is a magnificent creation.

The book is a real eye-opener, a good reminder of what the world was like before the birth of Christ, and a sobering reflection on what being a Christian truly means. At the same time it is also a superbly researched and entertaining piece of historical fiction, and the kind of thing for which historical fiction buffs are constantly on the alert. Great stuff.

(I should mention that this review is of the Kunizak translation.)

Steve Burt enchanted our congregation last Advent by delightfully reading short stories from his book "A Christmas Dozen." In his writing, the adventures of oh so truthfully quirky and vivid New England characters come to life. It's as though today's secular modern world and the sacred are combined in these little realistic and contemporary mysteries of hope. The stories have broad appeal. We had a Christmas reception following his hour of reading, and of course he gleefully autographed books to people - not to mention to their friends and family. He brought boxes of books with him, and HE LEFT WITH NONE! "A Christmas Dozen" is sheer joy. The journeys of his characters have added deep meaning to my Christmas celebration. I was so moved by them, that my wife and I gave a dozen books for Christmas last year, and we will do so again! I can't help wanting to share these stories. I tell them in worship and even read them at Christmas parties. So many things distract us in December from the real meaning of the season. I encourage you to invite the stories of "A Christmas Dozen" into your life. Read them again and again and again. Steve Burt also travels from his home in Connecticut to congreagations and various secular and sacred organizations around the country. His words contain the delightful mystery of Emmanel, the gift of God With Us.

Congratulations, Steve, on an extraordinarily magical book!

The Rev. David Reed-Brown The First Baptist Church in Essex, CT

For the past 28 years, Rev. Steve Burt has entertained his congregation on Christmas Eve by reading them heart-warming tales in place of a sermon. These stories capture the imagination and reach the soul.

"A Christmas Dozen" is a compilation of the most-requested stories since 1972. After many readings, eager listeners requested printed copies. They wanted to share the profound message of unconditional love with their friends and family. What a wonderful stocking stuffer this is for children and adults alike.

These stories were written for reading out loud, but are equally enjoyable to read while curled up on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate. The first story captured my heart so quickly, I was surprised. In "Christmas 1944" you will feel "shivers" as you realize there are two enemies staring at one another in the night. Then, the actions of the two soldiers will evoke a deep sense of compassion as you realize that we are all just souls that want to live in peace.

In "A Christmas Dozen," also the name of a story in the book, a black Labrador named "Otis" is left behind in the snow and meets a cat who is about to have kittens. The Labrador helps to keep the cat warm and in the morning we find twelve tiny pink-nosed kittens. The family returns and not only finds their lost pet, they are rewarded with a bundle of purring kittens. I love that story the most!

Pastor Steve Burt is a natural storyteller. He has woven the Spirit of Christmas into his stories in such a way as to make you feel the wonder of a child.

During the holiday season, you might find him reading his stories in a local library, at a Christmas program, to the elderly in nursing homes, or to the world on a radio show. He is well knows as "The Christmas Story Pastor." Pastor Burt's work has also appeared in the popular "Chicken Soup for the Single Soul" book. His daughter has inherited her father's love of writing and is the author of a new book called: "Oh, Solo Mia!" which is a witty guide for single girls. Other works by Steve Burt include: Christmas Special Delivery and Unk's Fiddle and Other Stories.

Share these wonderful stories with your own family this Christmas. Perhaps you can make this one of your own family traditions during the holiday season. The stories are thought-provoking and show how people can transcend their impulse to just be human. They rise to the occasion and choose love. That is the best gift we can give, for God is love.

On March 28, 2003 Writer's Digest announced that A Christmas Dozen won the Honorable Mention in Best Inspirational Book category of its Self-Published Book Awards. (author note)

I am not a teacher so cannot of course address how well this book can be used in a classroom. But just three days ago I received a wonderfully flat package from my little niece in California (I am in Ohio) which contained a "Flat Erik" (guess they named their own little guys). I am to keep Flat Erik for two weeks and chronicle his activities then return Flat Erik, my journal and pictures to my niece. All returned Flat characters will be displayed in their classroom's open house next month.

I am thrilled to be hanging out with Flat Erik; he has already played in the snow, slept in his own little bed, gone to work and gone shopping. Just today we went to the bookstore (sorry Amazon :) and purchased a copy of Flat Stanley so that I knew what my niece had read. Of course as an adult I found the story less than entertaining but can see the attraction for kids and teachers.

I look forward to the coming two weeks with my Flat Erik.

Finally I've found Flat Stanley!! I read this wonderful book when I was a small child and was thrilled by Stanley's situation. In fact, it is one of the only stories I can still vividly recall from my TV-infested childhood. (And it still affects me-- to this day I have NEVER put a bulletin board above my bed or anything big for that matter!!!). As I grew older, I lost track of my copy of the book-- but would always ask friends if they remembered it when the converstation turned to children's literature. Surprisingly, not many people had heard of the story-- which, of course, inspired me to find the book and bring back a classic to my friends, nieces and nephews. So, I scoured bookstores old and new to find it. And I was without luck-- until now. With the help of my computer and Amazon.com I have, again, found Flat Stanley. So, I'm ordering a bunch of copies-- for myself and my family-- and I'm thrilled that Stanley will find a place once again on my bookshelf -- and will hopefully remain there for years to come. I can't wait for him to get here!!!

Who is 4 feet tall, 1 foot wide, and a 1/2 a inch thick?
Stanley Lambchop is!!
Stanley Lambchop is an average boy. He leads an ordinary life... Until one night an enormous bulletin board falls on him and suddenly makes him flat. Stanley being flat had turned into an adventure for him. He gets to stop crime, gets to be mailed, gets to be flown like a kite, and many more things. But there is only one bad thing about being flat for Stanley. It is... Will he ever return to his normal size and have his normal life again? Well you will find out when you read this book Flat Stanley!!
Katie